The Basics: Born in 1271 in Spain; died July 4, 1336 in Portugal; canonized May 25, 1625, by Urban VIII; feast day, July 4. Queen.
The Story: Elizabeth’s marriage to Denis did not start off well. He was less than faithful for much of their marriage. Elizabeth 
continued to treat him with kindness and respect, and to pursue her own ministries and prayer life. Denis eventually saw the error of his ways, but life still wasn’t easy. Elizabeth intervened to end a war that had broken out between Denis and their son Alfonso, who was jealous of a half-brother who was the product of one of Denis’s extramarital affairs. Late in life, she briefly left the Poor Clares convent where she was a tertiary to resolve another war in which Alfonso was engaged.
Elizabeth’s Wisdom: “God made me queen so that I may serve others.”
What We Can Learn: Peacemaking, in time of war or in our own lives, isn’t easy. Identify a difficult relationship, and pray for guidance in what you can do to help ease tensions.
To Learn More About Elizabeth: Check out the monastery in Coimbra where her tomb is located or the recently reopened older monastery Elizabeth founded there.
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.
