Saint of the Day for 04 July: Saint Elisabeth (Isabella)
Isabella grew up in a deeply religious environment and devoted herself to prayer from a young age
Saint Elizabeth of Portugal, also known as Isabella, was a 14th-century Portuguese princess who has been venerated as a saint in the Catholic Church. Born on 4 July 1271, she was the daughter of King Peter III of Portugal and his wife Constance of Castile.
In 1288, she married Dionysius, King of Aragon, and moved to Spain. Despite her young age, she proved to be a wise and merciful queen, committed to the promotion of peace and justice.
Queen Isabella distinguished herself for her generosity towards the poor, dedicating time and resources to help them. She is a compassionate soul who mercifully committed herself to giving food to the hungry, water to the thirsty and clothing to the naked. Her mission also focused on building hospitals and homes for the needy and she encouraged the construction of schools and educational institutions.
After the death of her husband in 1314, Isabella retired to live in solitude, devoting herself to prayer and works of charity and mercy. She died on 4 July 1336 and was buried in the church of Saint Francis in Zaragoza, Spain
The veneration of Isabella as a Saint began soon after her death, and over the centuries her figure has been the object of popular devotion. In 1625 Pope Urban VIII confirmed the cult of St. Elizabeth of Portugal, recognising her as the official saint of the Catholic Church.
Saint Elizabeth of Portugal is considered the patron saint of pregnant women, mothers, kings and queens. Her liturgical feast falls on 4 July, the day of her birth and death.
It is important to note that biographical and historical details may vary slightly depending on local sources and traditions.
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