Saint of the Day: St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, First US Citizen to be Canonized


Today the dioceses in the United States celebrate the memorial of St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, virgin and foundress.

St. Frances Xavier Cabrini was the first United States citizen to be canonized. Born in Lombardy, Italy in 1850, she founded the Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart in 1880 and established many hospitals, schools, and orphanages.

In 1889, she set out for the United States and arrived in New York, where she and six other Sisters worked with the poor, especially with Italian immigrants. During her 28 years in America she worked with great love and dedication for the poor and needy, particularly the Italian immigrants. At a time when there were few resources and government programs for the poor, it is indeed amazing (and miraculous) that she founded a total of 67 institutions (hospitals, schools, and orphanages).She died in Chicago on December 22, 1917, was beatified on November 13, 1938, and was canonized by Pope Pius XII on July 7, 1946.

She is the patron saint of hospitals, immigrants, and orphans.

St. Frances Xavier Cabrini Quotes

"We must pray without tiring, for the salvation of mankind does not depend on material success; nor on sciences that cloud the intellect. Neither does it depend on arms and human industries, but on Jesus alone."

From a letter to the immigrants of Latin America and the Carribbean:

"In the adorable Heart of Jesus, I can always find you. He is our comfort, our way, our life. To Him I shall confide all your needs. I will speak to Him of each one of you in particular. I know the wants of every one of you. I will take a great interest in you and keep you close to my heart – you may be sure of this."

For more information on St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, go here and here. See Catholic Culture for a comprehensive view of this saint and for family activities, prayers, and recipes for today.

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