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Introduction to
Catholicism
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Antonio
Filicchi,
devoted friend and business associate of William Seton,
received Elizabeth and Annina into his home after William's
death. He influenced her conversion to Catholicism largely
by his example. Antonio assisted Elizabeth Seton and her
children financially throughout their lives and remained
her spiritual friend until her death in 1821. |
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Amabilia
Filicchi, wife of Antonio, was a gracious, gentle
woman. While Elizabeth Seton and Annina lived in her home
in Leghorn, Amabilia brought the Americans to Florence
to visit the churches and museums. She and Elizabeth corresponded
regularly for years. |
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Filippo
Filicchi, the older of the Filicchi brothers, was
married to an American, Mary Cowper of Boston, and understood
the American psyche. He therefore openly challenged Elizabeth
Seton to seek the truth in the Catholic Faith. Until his
death in 1816 Filippo remained her close friend. |
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