Basilica of the National Shrine of St Elizabeth Ann Seton

The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton

The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, located in Emmitsburg, Maryland, stands as a significant religious and educational center dedicated to the life, mission, and legacy of Elizabeth Ann Seton. She holds the distinction of being the first native-born citizen of the United States to be canonized by the Roman Catholic Church. The shrine is recognized both as a minor basilica and a national shrine, attracting pilgrims and visitors seeking to learn about her profound influence.

History and Foundation

Elizabeth Ann Seton, born into a prominent Anglican family in New York City, converted to Roman Catholicism in 1805. In 1808, she was invited to Maryland, where she established a school. With the support of Samuel Sutherland Cooper, she acquired land near Emmitsburg in 1809, and according to tradition, named the area Saint Joseph's Valley. It was here that she founded the Sisters of Charity of St. Joseph, an order that would play a crucial role in American Catholic education and healthcare.

The early days were marked by hardship, with the community initially housed in the 'Stone House,' a former farmhouse built around 1750. This structure, though rudimentary, served as the first headquarters. Facing challenging conditions, Archbishop John Carroll directed the construction of a new log building, known as the 'White House,' in 1810. This new "Saint Joseph's House" became the site where Mother Seton established the first free Catholic school for girls in the United States, laying the groundwork for the Catholic parochial school system in the nation.

Following her death in 1821, Mother Seton was buried in Emmitsburg at a cemetery she called "God's Little Acre." The Sisters of Charity continued their service, notably as nurses during the Civil War, earning the title "angels of the battlefield." Saint Joseph's Chapel was consecrated on May 6, 1841. In 1846, her remains were moved to a mortuary chapel built within the Sisters' cemetery at the request of her son, William Seton.

The Shrine Complex and Basilica

The shrine complex has evolved to encompass the historical 'Stone House,' the 'White House,' and the cemetery, along with a dedicated basilica, a museum, the Mortuary Chapel, and a visitors center. It is an integral part of the Archdiocese of Baltimore and a significant pilgrimage site for Roman Catholics.

The shrine's basilica was dedicated in 1965, featuring interior artwork created by European artisans. After Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton's canonization in 1975, her remains were transferred from the cemetery to the basilica. In recognition of its importance, the shrine's chapel was officially designated as a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II in 1991, with the formal ceremony taking place on August 4th of that year.

The shrine also hosts an annual event celebrating Mother Seton, which honors all individuals named Elizabeth or Elizabeth Ann. Those bearing these names participate in a special procession and venerate Mother Seton at her tomb.

Patroness for the Sea Services

Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton is recognized as the Patroness for the Sea Services, a title stemming from her deep maternal concern for her sons, William and Richard, who served in the U.S. Navy. Her numerous letters to them during their time at sea attest to this devotion. The National Shrine holds an annual Pilgrimage for the Sea Services, bringing together members of the Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, Merchant Marine, and the U.S. Public Health Service, along with their families and friends, to honor her intercession for all who serve in these branches.