The Basics: Born November 25, 1386, in Germany; died November 25, 1420, in Germany; beatified June 19, 1766, by Clement XIII; feast day, November 25; woman religious.
The Story: They called her “the good Betha” from an early age, and it’s easy to understand why. Elizabeth was born into a poor family, and was just fourteen when she became a third order (lay) Franciscan. Rather than enter a convent, she stayed at home for the next three years. 
She then moved in with another Franciscan tertiary; the two women engaged in weaving to attempt to cover their expenses, but often there was not enough money to make ends mean.
When Elizabeth was in her mid-twenties, her confessor (who later would become her biographer) established a house for Franciscan tertiaries, and Elizabeth was among the first five women to join the community. She was known for spending hours kneeling or lying prostrate on the ground in a small garden and acquired another nickname–“the recluse”–as a result. Elizabeth received the gifts of visions and the stigmata, but also was beset by demons from time to time.
How good was she? Well, it’s said she existed on the Eucharist for twelve years… and that her confessor struggled with absolving her because she had so little to do penance for.
What We Can Learn from Elizabeth: While it’s important to go to the Lord when we have sinned, it’s just as important not to engage in scrupulosity and become overly concerned with whether our thoughts or actions are distressing to Him. After all, we are His beloved sons and daughters.
To Learn More About Elizabeth: Visit the website for the Franciscan women’s community, of which Elizabeth was a founder, in Reute.
To Learn More About Other Women Saints and Blesseds: Come back next week, or consider buying my book, Sisterhood of Saints: Daily Guidance and Inspiration.
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