The biography, Saint Katharine Drexel, Friend of the Oppressed, by Ellen Tarry, portrays the inspiring life of a young girl from Philadelphia. Katharine is a happy child living in an opulent, yet pious, atmosphere. Kindled by the invaluable example of generosity displayed by her parents, she feels the call to dedicate her life to God's service. Consequently, she enters the religious life and establishes a community of sisters to work for Indians and African Americans. Because of her strong desire to imitate Saint Francis, she relinquishes her vast inheritance towards the building of countless schools, hospitals, and institutes for the needy. Katharine's life of immeasurable charity is characterized by her virtues of compassion, piety, and perseverance.
Katharine's boundless compassion is highlighted especially by her caring nature and her devotion to God's service. As an affectionate daughter, Katherine cares for each of her parents near the end of their lives. She lovingly brings water and fresh fruit to her mother; and likewise, handles business
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As a young girl, Katharine devotedly prays for the soul of George Washington, and moreover, continues this practice for the rest of her life. Later, as she is venerating relics in Rome on Christmas Eve, she experiences a profound unity with Jesus and His Blessed Mother. Katharine's incredible holiness is again displayed when she is privileged with a vision, in which Our Lady gives her the command, "freely have you received; freely give." While on the arid missions of the southwest, Mother Drexel prays that the Indians may receive not only material water, but also the saving spiritual waters of Baptism. Furthermore, she lives joyously in the fullness of poverty, never desiring worldly comforts or luxuries. Katharine steadfastly keeps her eyes on God, and as a result, works tirelessly as a devoted