Katherine Drexel serves as the focal point of this uplifting post, highlighting how an American saint from Philadelphia’s high society chose a life of faith and philanthropy. By dedicating her immense fortune to better the lives of Native Americans and African Americans, Katherine’s story challenges us to become agents of positive change in our communities.
Women achieving great things is a theme that I naturally embrace. This interest stems from my lifelong love and admiration for religious sisters. These women gave me tender affection, loving discipline, solid faith formation, vital education, and supportive encouragement.
I wrote this article about an American saint I admire on my Catholic blog. Her name is Katherine Drexel. She was a 19th-century woman born into astounding wealth and Philadelphia’s high society. She left a life of privilege, parties, and pleasure to become a Catholic nun. She dedicated her life and entire fortune (modern equivalent of $550 million) to helping the poorest of the American poor in her lifetime — Native Americans and African Americans. She founded and funded schools, missions, churches, and various projects that served these neglected Americans.
Mother Drexel would often say:
Think it. Desire it. Speak it. Act it.
These eight little words are powerful, and she certainly lived by them. Next time you feel a little overwhelmed with situations that you’re dealing with, think about this dynamic American saint. Oh yes, she had significant financial resources to solve problems. But, as I once read, “A river begins with one drop of rain.” Let’s be a raindrop and start a river of change for our families, friends, and communities.
Read my post and meet a new woman friend.
Featured photo by Clotee Allochuku-Albritton
Editorial Update: We strive to keep our content accurate and up-to-date. As part of our ongoing efforts, this article has been moved from Spiritual to INSPIRATIONAL & PERSONAL GROWTH on 09/14/2023.
