St. Elizabeth of Hungary
"As in heaven Your will is punctually performed, so may it be done on earth by all creatures, particularly in me and by me." -St. Elizabeth of Hungary
St. Elizabeth of Hungary - November 17
St. Elizabeth of Hungary, celebrated on November 17th, is remembered for her profound love for the poor and her deep devotion to serving Christ through acts of charity. As a young queen and widow, she used her royal status and wealth to care for those in need, embodying the Gospel call to serve the least of our brothers and sisters. Her life of humility and generosity continues to inspire Catholics to live lives of compassion, sacrifice, and service.
A Princess With a Heart for the Poor
Born in 1207 to the royal family of Hungary, Elizabeth was raised in a world of wealth and privilege. Yet, from a young age, she exhibited a deep love for God and an extraordinary concern for the poor and suffering. At just 14, she married Ludwig IV of Thuringia, with whom she had three children. As a wife and mother, Elizabeth’s heart was set on serving her family while still devoting herself to works of charity.
Despite her royal position, Elizabeth lived simply, praying fervently and regularly visiting the sick and destitute. She would often take food, clothing, and other necessities from the royal household to give to the poor, earning both admiration and criticism from those around her. Her husband, Ludwig, supported her charitable work and was a loving partner in her mission to serve others.
A Widow’s Sacrificial Love
Tragedy struck Elizabeth’s life when Ludwig died unexpectedly in 1227 while on a crusade. Widowed at just 20 years old, Elizabeth found herself alone and facing immense pressure from the royal court to cease her charitable activities. Nevertheless, she chose to dedicate herself entirely to God, renouncing her wealth and status.
Elizabeth joined the Third Order of St. Francis, embracing a life of poverty and prayer. She used her dowry to build a hospital where she personally tended to the sick and suffering. Her dedication was not just in giving material goods but in providing loving care and attention to each person she served. Elizabeth often said, “I want to be able to give myself completely to God and to serve others as a humble servant of Christ.”
A Legacy of Charity and Holiness
St. Elizabeth of Hungary’s life was short—she died at the age of 24—but her impact was immense. Known for her radiant joy and unwavering faith, she embodied Christ’s love and mercy. Her selflessness and generosity led to her canonization just four years after her death, in 1235, by Pope Gregory IX.
Today, St. Elizabeth is the patroness of the Third Order of St. Francis, as well as of hospitals, nurses, and caregivers. Her feast day is a reminder of the power of charity and the importance of seeing Christ in every person, especially those who are suffering or marginalized.
A Model of Compassion for Us All
St. Elizabeth’s life challenges us to look beyond ourselves and to reach out to those in need, regardless of our own circumstances. Whether we are in positions of influence or living ordinary lives, we can all choose to serve others with love and humility. Her example encourages us to be generous with our time, talents, and resources, and to bring the light of Christ to those who are most in need of hope.
A Heart for God
St. Elizabeth of Hungary teaches us that true greatness is found not in power or riches, but in serving others with a heart full of love for God. Her life of charity and sacrifice reminds us that we are called to be instruments of God’s mercy in the world, bringing hope and healing wherever we go.
May St. Elizabeth’s example inspire us to live lives of compassion, humility, and joyful service.
St. Elizabeth of Hungary, pray for us!