Elizabeth Ann Seton

Elizabeth Ann Seton (1774-1821) was the first American-born saint in the Roman Catholic Church. She was originally an Anglican but converted to Catholicism in 1805. Seton founded the Sisters of Charity, the first religious community for women in the United States, and established the first Catholic school in the country. Her work focused on education and caring for the poor, significantly impacting American Catholic education. Canonized in 1975, she is remembered for her commitment to faith, service, and education, particularly as a pioneer in bringing Catholic principles into the American context. Her feast day is celebrated on January 4.