Homily: Feast of St. Elizabeth of Hungary

Feast of St. Elizabeth of Hungary (Wisdom 13:1-9) “Blessed are the Merciful.”

St. Elizabeth of Hungary (1207-31) lived a very short but active life. She suffered a lot at the hands of the men in her life. The princess was betrothed to her future husband, the Duke of Thuringia, when she was only four years old. Her future husband was eleven. They were raised together until he was twenty-one and then they were married.

Even though it was an arranged marriage she was happy with it. They had three children. Elizabeth was allowed to do what she was most passionate about. She wanted to serve the poor and the sick. She built a hospital in her basement and took care of those who were ill. The poor lined up at her door to receive her assistance.

In 1227 her husband died. Immediately there was a power struggle over the throne. Her husband’s family tried to seize control. The throne rightfully belonged to Elizabeth’s son or to her, but her brother-in-law forced her into exile and became regent for her son.

Elizabeth refused to marry again because she and her husband promised to love no one else. She fled to Bamburg to live with her aunt and uncle. Elizabeth took the habit of a Franciscan tertiary. She placed herself under the spiritual care of an ascetic named Konrad of Marburg. He demanded that Elizabeth submit completely to him. He controlled her assets and distributed them as he saw fit.

Fortunately for Elizabeth, Konrad allowed her to continue her charitable work. Women were not supposed to care for the sick. It is said that despite her ordeals Elizabeth retained her good humor. But because of the many works of mercy, she performed her health was compromised.

St. Elizabeth was an example of a wealthy, powerful person who never forgot the plight of the poor. It seems like this is a rarity in our world. When people get wealth and power, they forget those in most need. Elizabeth remembered that Jesus felt the most important mark of a Christian was how well a Christian engages in the works of mercy.

Reflection Questions:

1.    Is there a powerful leader that is concerned with helping those in need? Who would that be?

2.   St. Elizabeth gave of herself completely. Was she wise to do that? Should she have looked out for herself?

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Dear Parishioners,

         This is just a reminder that the diocese is looking for feedback about the “Growing Disciples” model that was proposed for consolidating the parishes in our diocese. If you have feedback it is supposed to be turned in by the 24th of November.

          Information can be found on the Diocese of Peoria website. Just click on the “Growing Disciples” tab and all the models and other information are there. The decisions that will be made will impact everyone in our diocese.

          May Our Lady of Peace pray for us,

          Fr. Mark