Click “Works” tab to view my book Today is the feast of Saint Katharine Drexel, daughter of one of the wealthiest families in the United States in her lifetime. She was born in 1858 into the wealthy banking family, one of three daughters. When her father died, she, along with her sisters, inherited 90% of his fortune (He had tithed the rest to charitable organizations.)
Katharine shocked the world by founding an order to serve Black and Native Americans. While in some ways politically incorrect by today’s standards, she was a woman ahead of her time. She used her fortune to establish schools across the country, including Xavier University of Louisiana. Still in operation today, it was one of the first all black colleges and it trained many teachers who then worked in the schools Katharine founded.
Today, we can look at her example of using what she was given, both her natural talents, spiritual gifts, and monetary resources, for the common good. High society was scandalized by her choices and when she entered a religious order, her decision was front page news.
Almsgiving is a traditional Lenten discipline. Katharine’s life challenges us to take a deep look at our own. How do we use our gifts? How do we respond to the poor and marginalized of our time?
Katharine’s life story is interesting as is that of her family. Check out my biography of Katharine and other resources to learn more about her journey.
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