2021 marks the 200th anniversary of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton’s death. It also marks the 46 years since her canonization, at which Pope Saint Paul VI declared her—a wife, mother, teacher, religious sister, and Catholic convert—America’s first native-born saint.

The honor was well deserved.

In the springtime of America, Elizabeth Ann Seton bore witness to the beauty of faith, the joy of the Gospel, and the power of the sacraments. Her hope in Christ changed the nation, helping grace work its way into every corner of the country through the sisters who followed her. She was, as Paul VI said, “America’s first flower,” showing people what God can do when we say yes to him. 

Choosing Faith

Elizabeth Ann Seton had every reason to doubt, too. First, a looming war cost her family their home and business. Then, disease took her husband, dearest friends, and two of her children. Rather than choose doubt, however, she chose faith. 

In an uncertain world, Elizabeth Ann Seton found certainty in the Eucharist and the Blessed Mother. So, she risked everything to follow Jesus into the Catholic Church. She then risked it all again to found America’s first congregation of women’s religious order: the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph’s.

Despite loss, disappointment, and suffering, Elizabeth Ann Seton said yes to Christ again and again. And every yes she uttered became a seed, from which thousands of flowers bloomed, here in Emmitsburg and beyond, in vocations, schools, hospitals, orphanages, and so much more.

Join Us

In the nineteenth century, Elizabeth Ann Seton showed the world what God can do with our “yes” to him. Today, in the twenty-first century she shows us the same. 

Throughout this anniversary year, whether virtually or in person, we hope you join us at the Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Shrine in Emmitsburg, Maryland, where you’re invited to:

• Watch our new film on Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton: Seeker to Saint;
• Take in a Live! Virtual Tour of the Shrine;
• Read up on Mother Seton by downloading a FREE E-Book or purchasing the Shrine’s exclusive biography.

As we celebrate the 200th anniversary her death, it’s time for America to rediscover Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton.