We remember that holy people have lived lives based on the values of the Gospel. By imitating their lives, we, too, can live as holy followers of Jesus. Knowing that we can turn to the lives of the saints for encouragement and example can help us remain faithful to our baptismal promises.

In looking at how the saints lived the Christian life, children can discover their own unique way of living out the Gospel in their lives.

		Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton
		•	lived 1774–1821
		•	born Episcopalian, converted as an adult
		•	wife, mother of five, widow, religious sister
		•	opened first free Catholic school in America in 1808
		•	founder of Sisters of Charity
		•	first American-born saint, canonized in 1975
		•	Feast day—January 4

"A Special Saint" Prayer Celebration Notes

Focus		Making a difference like St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
Materials		Prayer table with Bible and candle, liturgy copies and certificates, a small cup, a small candle, an acorn, a postage stamp, music Click here to print certificates for the activity.
Reading		Matthew 18:1–5
Music		"We Are One," "Bring Forth the Kingdom," Blest Are We Music CD 3; "Jesus Loves the Little Children," Christopher Walker (OCP Publications), "Sing A Song to the Saints, Jack Louden (OCP Publications)
Preparation		Print out and photocopy certificates, print each child’s name on a copy. Place a small cup, a small candle, an acorn, postage stamp, and the certificates on the prayer table for use during the prayer celebration. Prepare your role as leader for the prayer celebration. Discuss the life of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton with the children.
Adaptation		Work with children to make a banner about St. Elizabeth Ann Seton. Hang the banner in the prayer space.
Additional Materials		"We Are One," "Bring Forth the Kingdom" Blest Are We Music CD 3 Call RCL Benziger at 1-877-ASK-4-RCL (1-877-275-4725). ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36654-9 Blest Are We Song Book Words and melody for children; contains music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36617-4 Blest Are We Accompaniment Book Contains accompaniment music for levels 1-8 ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36618-2