This 2^nd edition  of the classic spiritual portrait of Mother Seton, newly edited with introduction by Sister Betty Ann McNeil, D.C., traces the spiritual journey of the 19th-century American wife, mother, educator, and religious leader, who became the first native-born canonized saint of the United States.

This work is exceptional and unique because it is the only in-depth exploration and analysis based on the actual archival documents of Seton’s life, conversion, spiritual growth and development as the foundress of the Sisters of Charity. It underscores her great importance for the Church in the United States, and the lasting spiritual impact of her enduring legacy as a Catholic convert, an educator and a religious leader.

The colloquial style of this critical edition and the abundance of moving excerpts from the pen of Mother Seton inform and inspire the reader to reflect on her remarkable journey towards holiness.  Organized thematically and chronologically, this is an astonishing account of an ordinary woman who lived an extraordinary life of heroic virtue as she embraced the will of God.

This updated edition of the acclaimed spiritual work is being released to celebrate this fiftieth anniversary of the canonization of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, who was declared the first native-born American saint by St. Pope Paul VI in 1975.

St. Elizabeth Seton is a truly American saint. She lived in grand houses as well as log cabins, raised children but outlived some of them, and was persecuted simply for being Catholic. This second edition of her biography is perfect for those who want to learn about the personal accomplishments and spiritual journey of a intelligent woman with a deep faith and a big heart.
— Dawn Beutner, Author, Saints and The Leaven of the Saints

Whether you have a deep spiritual devotion to St. Elizabeth Ann Seton or are simply discovering her life for the first time, Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton: A Spiritual Portrait is a perfect way to journey alongside this remarkable woman. This second edition version includes an insightful forward Sister Betty Ann McNeil, D.C. which sets context for the magnificent work done by Father Joseph I. Dirvin, C.M. Equal parts annotated biography and spiritual compendium, this work us into the trials and triumphs of a saint who is very much a perfect intercessor and role model for today's modern seeker. Highly recommended! 
— Lisa M. Hendey, author of I'm a Saint in the Making

In this valuable edition of a classic work, Sister Betty Ann McNeill's  engaging preface and brief account of Elizabeth Ann Seton's life add new dimensions to Father Joseph Dirvin's learned and loving spiritual portrait.  Readers will be inspired as they come to know Seton as both person and saint.
— Catherine O'Donnell, Professor of History, Arizona State University and author of Elizabeth Seton: A Life

As we celebrate the 50th anniversary of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton’s canonization, I welcome the reissuing of Father Dirvin’s classic biography of her life and times, newly edited by Sister Betty Ann McNeil, D.C. This volume sheds an accurate and beautiful light on Mother Seton’s remarkable journey of faith and her search for the fullness of truth. With realism, it portrays her sanctity amid the many challenges she faced. It shows us her vision and courage in founding the Sisters of Charity that led to abundant works of education and healthcare. I hope that this spiritual portrait of Mother Seton will attract a new generation of readers.
— Most Reverend William E. Lori, Archbishop of Baltimore

"This life of Mother Seton is easy and inspiring reading, as well as a scholarly work of art. It should be read by everyone who wants to grow in holiness."
— Fr. John Hardon, S.J., Author, The Treasury of Catholic Wisdom

“This book is a splendid way to get to know better this wonderful model for all people of how to mingle prayer and activity. Her warm, intimate, courageous spirituality will inspire readers on how to be saints in the midst of problems of society and church. Fr. Dirvin's insights help us see the perennial relevance of Saint Elizabeth's wisdom for our own times."
— Ronda Chervin, Ph.D., Popular Author and Professor of Philosophy