St. Katharine Drexel: Educator, Philanthropist, and Catholic Foundation Patron
Today, we celebrate the feast of St. Katharine Drexel, our beloved patron saint at the Catholic Foundation of Michigan. Her heartfelt commitment to philanthropy and her passion for uplifting marginalized communities, especially through education, inspire us all to make a difference.
Let’s carry her spirit of JOY and selfless service into our work and lives. Learn more about her inspring life and legacy below.
St. Katharine (1858-1955) was born in Philadelphia as the second daughter of a prominent banker and was no stranger to philanthropy. When Katharine’s father passed away, he donated a portion of his estate to various Catholic charities and left the rest to his three daughters.Shortly after their father’s death, Katharine and her sisters made a significant contribution to the St. Francis Mission on the Rosebud Indian Reservation. Later in an audience with Pope Leo XIII, the pope suggested to Katharine that she become a missionary and support American Indian missions.
St. Katherine DrexelKatharine responded to that invitation and at age 33 she established a new religious congregation, the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament. Her order opened numerous schools to serve American Indian and African American communities and also founded Xavier University in New Orleans.
The Vatican cites four notable aspects of St. Katharine’s legacy: a love of the Eucharist; courage and initiative in addressing social inequalities among minority groups; a belief in quality education for all people; and selfless service, including the donation of her inheritance.
Patrons are considered protectors and advocates for particular causes. The Catholic Foundation of Michigan is honored to have St. Katharine Drexel as our patron because of her inspiring commitment to philanthropy and to serving the needs of under-resourced communities in the United States.
Celebrate the Feast of St. Katharine with us by generously contributing to one of our Field of Interest Funds that build up our local Catholic community through annual impact grants to Catholic schools, parishes, and community organizations.
We are blessed by your support and your partnership; please continue to keep the Catholic Foundation of Michigan in your prayers.
Icon of Saint Katharine courtesy of www.monasteryicons.com