Saint Katharine Drexel (1858–1955)
Feast Day: March 3
Patronage: Philanthropy, racial justice, Native Americans, African Americans
Early Life and Calling
Saint Katharine Drexel was born into one of the wealthiest families in Philadelphia on November 26, 1858. Her father, Francis Drexel, was a successful banker, and her family was known for their deep Catholic faith and charitable works. Despite their immense wealth, the Drexels lived with a spirit of Christian stewardship, regularly distributing aid to the poor and funding charitable institutions.
Katharine’s mother died when she was very young, and she was raised by her father and stepmother, who instilled in her a strong devotion to prayer and the poor. Through her travels and personal experiences, she became deeply aware of the sufferings of Native Americans and African Americans, particularly the lack of education and opportunities available to them.
A Radical Decision
After her parents’ deaths, Katharine and her sisters inherited a vast fortune. Many expected her to live a life of luxury, but she had other plans. In 1887, during a private audience with Pope Leo XIII, she asked him to send missionaries to help Native Americans and African Americans in the United States. The Pope responded, “Why not become a missionary yourself?”
These words struck her heart. After much prayer and discernment, Katharine decided to give her life and fortune entirely to Christ in service of the marginalized. She entered religious life and, in 1891, founded the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament, dedicated to the spiritual and educational uplift of Native Americans and African Americans.
A Life of Service and Sacrifice
Despite opposition and discrimination, Katharine used her fortune to establish schools, missions, and churches across the United States, particularly in the South and West. One of her most significant achievements was the founding of Xavier University in New Orleans, the first Catholic university for African Americans.
She and her sisters endured hostility from white supremacists, including threats of violence and even the burning of some of their schools. However, Katharine remained steadfast, believing that all people deserved dignity and the opportunity to know Christ.
Final Years and Canonization
In 1935, Katharine suffered a severe stroke, forcing her to retire from active leadership. She spent the last twenty years of her life in quiet prayer and adoration before the Blessed Sacrament. She died on March 3, 1955, at the age of 96.
Saint Katharine Drexel was canonized by Pope St. John Paul II on October 1, 2000, becoming the second American-born saint (after St. Elizabeth Ann Seton).
Legacy and Spiritual Lessons
Charity in Action – She exemplified true Christian charity, using her wealth not for herself but for the spiritual and material well-being of the marginalized.
Eucharistic Devotion – Her love for the Blessed Sacrament fueled her missionary zeal. She saw Christ in the poor and served them with reverence.
Perseverance in the Face of Opposition – Despite societal racism and hostility, she remained unwavering in her mission.
Saint Katharine Drexel’s life is a powerful witness to selfless service, racial justice, and total trust in God’s providence. Her example continues to inspire Catholics to fight for the dignity of all people, especially the poor and oppressed.
Saint Katharine Drexel, pray for us! 🙏