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

"Being Grateful" Prayer Celebration Notes

Focus		Being grateful for what we have, following the example of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
Materials Needed		Prayer table with Bible and candle, note paper, music
Reading		Sirach 2:7–11
Music		"We Are One," "Jubilate Servite," "Bring Forth the Kingdom," Blest Are We Music CD 3; "Sing A Song to the Saints, Jack Louden (OCP Publications)
Preparation		Prior to the celebration, share the story of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton with children. Have them write thank-you notes to their catechists or others in church ministry for their care, teaching, kindness, effort, and concern. Print out and photocopy the liturgy, "Being Grateful." Select a scripture reader, two readers for the psalm, and a petition reader. Prepare your role as leader for the prayer celebration.
Adaptation		Encourage the children to write thank-you notes to their pastor sharing things about their catechists and parish priests for which they are grateful.
Additional Materials		"We Are One," "Jubilate Servite," "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