| What makes it historical? |
Born in New York on the eve of the American Revolution, Elizabeth grew up and married William Seton, a wealthy businessman who took her to Italy and exposed her to the Catholicism that would eventually grant her sainthood! Unfortunately, her hubby lost his fortune and died of tuberculosis before that could happen. Fast forward to 1809, and Mrs. Seton moved to Emmitsburg, Maryland, where she founded the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph’s, America’s first religious community for women! She also founded St. Joseph’s Academy and Free School, the country’s earliest Catholic education center!
This basilica was dedicated in 1965 after Elizabeth was beatified (the first step before sainthood). Pope Paul IV canonized Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton on Sunday, September 14, 1975, making her the patron saint of in-law problems, widows, seafarers, protecting parents and children from death, and opposition of Church authorities! |
