Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, 1774–1821

January 4

Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton is the first Saint who was born in the United States. She was married and had five children. After her husband died, Elizabeth became a Catholic. She wanted to do Jesus’ work on Earth by serving others. She knew that people all over the world needed simple things. They need food, clothing, and to be able to go to school. She said that we must "live simply so that others may simply live." One of the things Saint Elizabeth did was open schools for poor children. She helped start the system of Catholic schools in the United States.

Discuss: How can you help do Jesus' work on Earth?

Saint Elizabeth Ann is the patron of Catholic schools. She is the founder of the Sisters of Charity order in the United States, first established in Baltimore, Maryland. The order went through many years of poverty and struggle, but finally succeeded. Elizabeth Ann was well educated, and loved music, especially the piano. She had a special devotion to the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist.

Activity
Basic Necessities
Verbal/Linguistic, Interpersonal

Invite your child to list, on a piece of paper, some of the things that are necessary in life (e.g., food, shelter, work, medical care). Ask her/him to explain why each thing is necessary.

• Discuss how a person receives each necessary thing. If a community service is available to provide for that need, have your child write it beside the item.
• Research outreach opportunities available within your community. Decide on one thing that your family can do to help others get what they need.
• Schedule a date for your family to take part in a specific project that will help meet some of the basic necessities of others.