Homily for the Memorial of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton

Elizabeth Ann Bayley was born in New York City on August 28, 1774, into a well-known and influential family, and she was raised as an Episcopalian. Tragically, her mother passed away when Elizabeth was just three years old.

In 1794, at 19, Elizabeth married William Magee Seton, a wealthy businessman. Together, they had five children. However, about nine years into their marriage, William died of tuberculosis in 1803 while they were living in Italy, leaving Elizabeth a young widow. During her time in Italy, she discovered Catholicism and, upon returning to the United States, entered the Catholic Church in 1805 in New York City.

The following years were quite challenging for Elizabeth. In 1809, she moved to Emmitsburg, Maryland, where she founded the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph, the first community for religious women established in the United States. She also initiated St. Joseph’s Academy and Free School, laying the groundwork for Catholic education in the country.

Mother Seton, as she is commonly known, was canonized on Sunday, September 14, 1975, in St. Peter’s Square by Pope Paul VI. She was the first person born in what would eventually become the United States to be given the title of “Saint.” Her remains are entombed in Emmitsburg, Maryland, in the Basilica at the National Shrine that bears her name.

Let us pray that, like Mother Seton, our faith will guide and support us during difficult times and inspire us to work for the good of others.