Memorial: November 17thPatron Saint of bakers, countesses, death of children, falsely accused, the homeless, nursing services, tertiaries, widows, and young brides
St. Elizabeth was always trying to be holy. As she would play games with the other children, she would always contrive little ways to sneak into the chapel and have a visit with Jesus. She was also known to be one of great virtue and caring for those in her village and encouraging others to do the same. Because St. Elizabeth’s dedication to the poor, the sick and the homeless so closely exemplifies the work of Divine Redeemer, she was chosen to be our patron saint. After the death of her husband, Louis, Elizabeth continued her works of charity among the poor, the sick and the homeless. She was especially concerned about the orphans and the elderly and built hospitals with her own funds to take care of them. She had so much compassion toward them that she herself tended to their needs, cleaning their homes and spinning yarn for their clothes.
Many followed in her footsteps, as did our Mother Alphonse Marie in Alsace. Her baptized name was Elizabeth. She, also, from her childhood considered being holy and have had compassion with suffering Jesus and the people in need. Mother Alphonse Marie, did as St. Elizabeth did: visited the sick and assisted them spiritually and physically. She brought to every handicapped person comfort, courage, with sympathetic and meticulous care, which alleviated their sufferings. She was compassionate, especially, to the poor sick who suffered the lack of good nursing care, proper and nourishing food, and other means of help.
St. Elizabeth, pray for us and grant for us the spirit of poverty and charity.
Prayer: O God, by whose gift Saint Elizabeth of Hungary recognized and revered Christ in the poor, grant, through her intercession, that we may serve with unfailing charity the needy and those afflicted. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, forever and ever. Amen