St. Elizabeth Ann Seton

Have you experienced the possibility of God working through hardship or even tragedy in your life? Has your life taken an unexpected turn and do you wonder if God is still there for you?

Elizabeth Seton's comfortable life took a shocking turn for the worse when she lost her husband and fortune and was set on an unexpected course. Baptized Elizabeth Bayley, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, born in 1774, is the first American-born saint. Born into a wealthy Episcopalian family she was married at the age of twenty to a merchant of similar background, William Magee Seton and had five children. Her life was one of comfort and charm.

After the tragic death of her husband from tuberculosis she converted to Catholicism. Rejected by her own family, Elizabeth was forced to live on her own, unsupported financially. Rather than focusing on how truly different and challenging her life had become, Elizabeth felt called by God to action. She would spend the second half of her life founding many schools for girls (some specifically for poor children) and is credited with being foundational to the parochial school network in the United SStates.

Many other women would soon follow Elizabeth in her quest for educating children. Elizabeth Ann Seton turned her tragedy into triumph founding the first American religious society, formally known as the Daughters of Charity of St. Joseph. At the time of her death, there were 20 communities spread throughout the world.

Contemplation

Have you asked God to be with you in times of trouble or in your unexpected difficulties?

Consider a difficulty you may be having; ask God to meet you in this difficulty and do so throughout the week.

Closing Prayer

Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, brave widow and convert, you lived your life as an example of one who lived for others. Through your prayers help me to live like you: committed to educating others, open to the call of God, brave enough to change complete directions in my life if called to do so.

Pray that I have eyes to see the open doors of opportunity, when the doors seem shut and all is dark.

Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, pray for me.