> Elizabeth Ann Bayley Seton was the first native born American to be canonized by the Catholic Church. > Born two years before the American Revolution, Elizabeth grew up in the upper class of New York society. She was a prolific reader, and read everything from the Bible to contemporary novels. > In spite of her high society background, Elizabeth's early life was quiet, simple, and often lonely. As she grew a little older, the Bible was to become her continual instruction, support and comfort -and she would continue to love the Scriptures for the rest of her life. [continue reading](https://www.catholic.org/saints/saint.php?saint_id=180)