St. Elizabeth of Portugal

Elizabeth was a Spanish princess, born in 1271, who was given in marriage to King Denis of Portugal at the age of twelve. Though a good ruler, he did not imitate his wife's love of prayer and other virtues. In fact, his sins of impurity gave great scandal to the people. He reformed late in life, when we are told that Elizabeth won him to repentance by her prayers and unfailing sweetness. In his last sickness, she never left his side, except for Mass, until he died a holy death.

Elizabeth died in 1336. She is a patron of Third Order Franciscans. Her Feast Day is July 4.