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, young people 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

"Loving God" Prayer Celebration Notes

Focus		Loving God with all our hearts like St. Elizabeth Ann Seton
Materials Needed		Prayer table with Bible and candle, 3 x 5 index cards, flowers, music
Reading		Deuteronomy 5:32–33
Music		"A Litany of Saints," Blest Are We Music CD 5; "Sing A Song to the Saints," Jack Louden (OCP Publications)
Preparation		Invite children to create "Promise Cards." To do this, each writes on an index card a promise: one way to help make their parish a better place to learn, love, and act justly. They are to place these on the prayer table during the liturgy. Print out and photocopy the liturgy, "Loving God." Select a leader, a Scripture reader, and a petition reader. Assign groups for the antiphonal reading of Psalm 138.
Adaptation		Discuss with participants times when they find it difficult to be fair and just with others. Can they think of ways to overcome these problems? How can they be more sensitive to others who are dealing with similar struggles?
Additional Materials		"A Litany of Saints" Blest Are We Music CD 5 Call RCL Benziger at 1-877-ASK-4-RCL (1-877-275-4725). ORDER NUMBER: 0-382-36656-5 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