Saint Elizabeth of Hungary

Saint Elizabeth of Hungary 

Feast: 19th November (Traditional); 17th November (New)

Patronage: Catholic charities 

St Elizabeth, patron of the Third Order of St Francis and patron of Catholic charities as well, was born into a family of great wealth. Elizabeth was one of the daughters of the King of Hungary, yet she chose to lead a life of penance and asceticism. 

Elizabeth was married at the youthful age of 14 to Louis of Thuringia and they had three children together. A source states that she deeply loved Louis. She continued to lead a life in service of the sick and poor, offering sacrifices and prayers. 

After six years, Elizabeth’s husband died in battle. She was grief-stricken and was eventually thrown out of the palace. Yet eventually she was able to return with her son as the rightful heir. 

She founded a hospital for the poor in honour of St Francis. 

In 1228, Elizabeth joined the Secular Franciscan Order and spent her time caring for the sick and poor. At 24 years of age Elizabeth died and only a brief four years later she was canonized. 

Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, prayer for us. 

SOURCE:

http://www.americancatholic.org/Features/SaintofDay/

Originally posted 2014-11-18 02:42:09.