Biography
Saint Katharine Drexel was born in 1858 in Pennsylvania. As the daughter of a wealthy banker and philanthropist, Katharine was exposed to social ideals at an early age. Upon returning from a trip out West, in which she encountered the undesirable living conditions of the poor and disadvantaged communities, Katharine decided to leverage her wealth and resources to uplift their lives. Ultimately, she founded over 60 schools and missions focused on educating and ministering to Native Americans and African Americans. She is remembered for her devout prayer life, courage towards social justice and unending generosity. Saint Katharine was beatified on November 28, 1988 and canonized by Pope John Paul II on October 1, 2000. She is known as the patron saint of philanthropists and racial justice.[1] Written by Sarah Ciotti [1] Vatican News Services (2000), “Katharine Drexel.” www.vatican.va Note: Optional Memorials and Commemorations are optional celebrations and, at present, we do not include content specific to these special days. This “About Today” is provided so that you can celebrate this Saint as you worship Christ. Thank you for praying with us. If you feel called, your Lenten offering helps carry this prayer to more hearts and languages. Contribute now