Queen and mother; an example of devotion to the poor. Patron saint of peacemakers. Great-niece of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary

Today the Church celebrates Saint Elizabeth of Portugal (1271–1336): born in Zaragoza, she was given in marriage at the age of 12 to King Denis of Portugal, with whom she had two children. She was a mother, a tireless peacemaker, and was canonized (1625) for her life of piety, charity, and commitment to peace. She is venerated for her devotion to the poor, her deep Christian spirit, and her ability to mediate in conflicts. From childhood she showed a special inclination toward a life of prayer, fasting, and good works. Despite her husband’s infidelities and the often dissolute life of the court, Elizabeth remained faithful to her Christian values. She knew how to unite her role as queen with a life of prayer, fasting, and constant help for those in need. After her husband’s death in 1325, Elizabeth withdrew to live in the monastery of the Poor Clares in Coimbra, where she entered as a Franciscan tertiary. —She is the patron saint of peacemakers. Her influence goes beyond the history of Portugal and makes her one of the great female figures of the Catholic Church.