Wife, mother, widow, educator, and friend, Elizabeth Ann Seton was the first native-born American to be canonized a saint. Born in 1774 into a prominent Episcopalian family in New York, she lost her mother at a young age. At nineteen, she married William Seton, and together they raised five children.

In 1803, Elizabeth traveled with her husband to Italy, hoping to restore his health as he suffered from tuberculosis. During this journey, she encountered Catholic faith and practice, especially devotion to the Eucharist, which deeply moved her. After William’s death, Elizabeth returned to the United States and, after much prayer and struggle, entered the Catholic Church in 1805.

Widowed and financially destitute, Elizabeth eventually moved to Emmitsburg, Maryland, where in 1809 she opened a school for girls. Other women were drawn to her vision, and together they formed the Sisters of Charity, the first religious community for women founded in the United States. Elizabeth’s school became the first American parish school, laying the foundation for Catholic education nationwide. She also established the first Catholic orphanage in the country.

Elizabeth’s life was shaped by her deep love for the Eucharist - the mystery of Christ’s real presence among us. For catechists, this same Eucharistic spirituality is central. In receiving the Body of Christ, we become the Body of Christ, called to live what we celebrate. Strengthened by the Eucharist, catechists are sent to serve, to nourish others with faith and Gospel values, and to be Christ’s presence in daily life.

Reflections to Hold, Pray, and Live

• When are you most aware of being the Body of Christ?
• How do you help others deepen their understanding of the Eucharist throughout their lives (not just for First Communion)?

Author:

Sister Janet Schaeffler, OP
Member, NCCL Board of Directors

Her book, SAINTS & MENTORS for Catechists: 41 Models of Faith to Support and Guide You, can be purchased from Twenty-Third Publications
[GET YOUR COPY HERE]

Learn more about Janet and her publications at https://www.janetschaeffler.com/