Papal Gift Honors First American-Born Saint, Elizabeth Ann Seton

Upon Pope Francis’ arrival at the White House on September 23, 2015, in Washington, D.C., President Barack Obama presented him with the original key to the home of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. The key once opened the door of her home, the Stone House, in Emmitsburg, on the grounds of The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. Presented in a case crafted specifically for the occasion, the key honors both His Holiness Pope Francis and Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. “This gift is a fitting tribute,” said Rob Judge, Executive Director of The National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, “to a woman who opened doors for so many women to serve the poor, and for a man who has been a strong advocate for those who are poor and marginalized.” “It is humbling,” said Judge, “to know that Pope Francis literally holds the key to Mother Seton’s home, where we welcome tens of thousands of visitors every year. People of all faiths are drawn here to learn the story of her life and legacy.” Go to www.setonshrine.org for a short biography and photos of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, as well as photos of her home and Basilica.