Saint Elizabeth of Portugal
Happy Independence Day everyone! I hope you have a safe and blessed day. On the Church’s calendar we also lovingly remember Saint Elizabeth of Portugal. Saint Elizabeth was born near the end of the 13th century, in 1271. Saint Elizabeth was a married woman and a queen. At the age of 12 she was married to the king of Portugal. Saint Elizabeth raised two children. Although Saint Elizabeth was surrounded by luxury and the comfort of the royal court, she was very mindful those in need. Saint Elizabeth worked with the poor and the sick. She cared for lepers and provided places to stay for pilgrims and strangers. Saint Elizabeth was very generous. When there was a famine in Lisbon, she provided food for the hungry. Also, she donated dowry money for poor girls so they would be able to get married. Saint Elizabeth built hospitals, orphanages and the first school to teach agriculture. Saint Elizabeth, a remarkably generous woman, was also blessed with the gift of peacemaking. She used this gift to assist her husband to work out differences with others. Then when the king became very ill and died, Saint Elizabeth left the palace, moved into a small house, and devoted the rest of her time to prayer. Saint Elizabeth went home to God in 1336 due to the strain of travel in trying to bring peace between two warring members of her family. Saint Elizabeth of Portugal is such a wonderful saint. I think if you are ever trying to bring peace among others, she is a good saint to ask for prayers. God bless and stay safe.
In Christ,
Fr. Steve Breck
Pastor, St. Mary Magdalene
