St. Katharine Drexel
American foundress (1858-1955), Philadelphia banking heiress who at Leo XIII's challenge consecrated her vast inherited fortune (some $20 million in 1890s dollars) to the evangelization of African and Native Americans; founded the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament (1891), Xavier University of Louisiana (the only historically Black Catholic university), and over 60 schools. Canonized 2000 by John Paul II.
Life & Times
Born: 26 November 1858 · Died: 3 March 1955 · From: United States.
Patronage
St. Katharine Drexel is invoked as the patron of racial justice, philanthropists, indigenous and black catholics, catholic education. Those in these callings or circumstances often turn to this saint in prayer.
“The patient and humble endurance of the cross — whatever nature it may be — is the highest work we have to do.”— Letter to her sisters, recorded in the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament archives
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About Catholic Saints
Catholic saints, including St. Katharine Drexel, are Christians whom the Catholic Church has formally recognized as having lived lifes of heroic holiness and who now dwell with God in heaven, offering an example of faith for those still on their earthly journey. Catholics don't worship saints, but ask them to pray to God with us and for us — much as one might ask a trusted friend to pray for them — trusting that those closest to God can join their voices to ours before Him. Discover more saints in the Catholic Shop Saints section.