Gerald R. Ford

“ The singular devotion, faith and courage of such servants of God as Elizabeth Ann Seton give life to that heritage and inspiration to us all.
On Sunday, September 14, 1975, His Holiness Pope Paul VI will confer upon "Mother Seton," as she is known to millions of Roman Catholics, the rites of canonization. From that day, Mother Seton will be Saint Elizabeth Seton, the first American-born saint of the Roman Catholic Church.
Born in New York more than 200 years ago, Mother Seton was content in her early years to live the common life of the 18th century woman. ”

“ Mother Seton established the first parochial school in America, the foundation for an educational system that has brought the priceless gift of knowledge to millions of Americans, including a multitude of newly arrived immigrants whom Mother Seton and her followers instructed in the language and the ways of their new homeland. ”

“ Among the most important elements of America's Bicentennial observance-and of everyday American life for nearly 200 years--is the religious heritage of our Nation, rich in its diversity and its quality. ”