Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
Stored in Cargo: Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
| Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton | |
| Feast Day | January 04 |
|---|---|
| Liturgical Class | |
| Patronage | Schoolchildren, Catholic schools, widows, loss of children, death of parents |
| Birthplace | New York City, New York, USA |
| Death Place | Emmitsburg, Maryland, USA |
| Cause of Death | Tuberculosis |
| Primary Shrine | National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, Emmitsburg, Maryland |
Elizabeth Ann Bayley was born into a prominent Episcopalian family in New York City in 1774. She married William Magee Seton in 1794, becoming a mother to five children. After William's business collapsed and he died from tuberculosis in Italy, Elizabeth found solace in Catholicism, converting in 1805. Her faith led her to establish the first free Catholic school for girls in the United States and to found the Sisters of Charity, the first American religious congregation for women.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton dedicated her life to education and charity, founding Saint Joseph's Academy and Free School in Emmitsburg, Maryland, where she also served as the superior of her religious community. Her approach to education and her charitable works significantly influenced American Catholic education. She passed away in 1821 from tuberculosis, leaving behind a legacy of faith, education, and service. She was canonized in 1975 by Pope Paul VI, becoming the first native-born American to be declared a saint.
Biography
Birth
Born on August 28, 1774, in New York City, Elizabeth was the daughter of Richard Bayley, a prominent physician, and Catherine Charlton.
Early Life
She experienced a privileged upbringing but was deeply affected by personal losses, including the death of her mother and her father's remarriage. She married William Magee Seton at 19, entering into a life of social commitments and family responsibilities.
Occupation
Initially a socialite and mother, Elizabeth's life took a turn towards education and charity after her husband's death, where she became an educator and founded schools.
Vocation
Her conversion to Catholicism led her to her true vocation, founding the Sisters of Charity, dedicating her life to religious education and the care of the poor.
Death
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton died on January 4, 1821, in Emmitsburg, Maryland, from tuberculosis, a disease that had claimed her husband's life years before.
Significant locations
Legend
Birth location: New York City, New York, USA
Death location: Emmitsburg, Maryland, USA
Notable location: Birthplace (7 State Street, New York City, NY)
Notable location: Saint Joseph's Academy and Free School (Emmitsburg, Maryland)
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