Introduction:
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton was an incredible woman who was a first in many areas, including being the first American born saint! This amazing woman, who was born in 1774 and died in 1821, was a beloved teacher, foundress, church leader, and advocate for the poor, disabled, and uneducated. Here are 15 facts about her that explore her life, accomplishments, and legacy.
Fact 1: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton was canonized in 1975.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton was canonized as the first American-born saint in 1975 by Pope Paul VI. She was given the title “Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton,” the patron saint of Catholic schools and of spiritual mothers. She was beatified in 1963, with her feast day falling on January 4th of each year.
Fact 2: Her parents were Episcopalian.
Elizabeth Ann was born to wealthy Episcopalian parents in 1774. A few years later, Elizabeth Ann converted to Catholicism. Her mother was a strong figure who greatly influenced Elizabeth Ann before and after the latter’s conversion. Her father died when she was three years old.
Fact 3: Her husband was William Magee Seton.
Elizabeth Ann fell in love and married William Magee Seton in 1794. They had five successful children together and were married for eleven years.
Fact 4: Her family worked in the import/export business.
Elizabeth Ann’s family was involved in the import/export business as their main source of income. Before she converted to Catholicism and marry William Magee Seton, Elizabeth Ann managed the Seton family business.
Fact 5: William’s business was a failure.
The import/export business William Magee Seton was involved in went bankrupt after William fell ill with consumption. William worsened and died on August 4th, 1803, leaving Elizabeth Ann in debt.
Fact 6: Elizabeth moved with her children to Maryland.
After William’s death, Elizabeth moved with her five children to Maryland. She opened a school for children and eventually started a religious order.
Fact 7: Elizabeth was devoted to serving the poor and uneducated.
Elizabeth devoted her life to helping those in need, especially those in the lower class who had no access to education. She was also active in taking in orphans and other homeless children, and cared for the disabled and elderly.
Fact 8: St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s Order Daughters of Charity of St. Joseph.
In 1809, Elizabeth founded the Order Daughters of Charity of St. Joseph. This organization was devoted to helping the poor and uneducated, spreading her mission of service and love around the world.
Fact 9: She was a teacher and author.
Elizabeth Ann was also a teacher. She taught in her own school in Maryland and wrote several books, including A Guide to Sunday School and The Sisters of Charity.
Fact 10: Her writings were influential.
Elizabeth Ann was respected for her writings and many of her writings were used in Catholic schools around the world. She was even asked to write the textbooks for the curriculum at St. Mary’s Seminary.
Fact 11: Her order expanded across the US.
The Order of Daughters of Charity of St. Joseph expanded across the United States due to Elizabeth’s efforts. Eventually, it became a global order with organizations in over thirty countries.
Fact 12: She established the first orphanage in the US.
In addition to creating the order, Elizabeth Ann is credited with establishing the first orphanage in the US. The orphanage was located in Philadelphia and was established during a period of great poverty and struggle for the city’s children.
Fact 13: The Catholic Church declared her a “Venerable”.
In 1806, the Catholic Church declared Elizabeth a “Venerable,” which is an honor reserved for those who are incredibly devoted to the Church.
Fact 14: She established the first American Catholic school.
Elizabeth Ann also started the first American Catholic school. The school was established in Baltimore and was the first of its kind in the United States.
Fact 15: She is the patron saint of spiritual mothers.
Elizabeth Ann was named the patron saint of spiritual mothers and of Catholic schools due to her devotion to the Church and her tireless efforts in teaching and motivating those in need.
Conclusion
Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton is an inspiring figure whose devotion and tireless efforts have left a powerful legacy for future generations. She was an incredible teacher, foundress, and leader in the Catholic Church and is remembered for her works and her deep faith. The 15 facts mentioned here explore her incredible life, accomplishments, and legacy.
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