4th July - Saint Elizabeth of Portugal - Independent Catholic Ne

4th July - Saint Elizabeth of Portugal - Independent Catholic Ne: St Elizabeth was forced into an arranged marriage with Denis, King of Portugal, when she was only twelve, in 1283. They had two children. Denis was not a good husband or father, but he let Elizabeth get on with her life, and she made the best of her situation. She built hospitals, hostels for travellers, a home for retired prostitutes and an orphanage. She spent her days caring for the sick. When Denis became ill he apologised to her for all his cruelties and she nursed him until his death.