St. Elizabeth of Hungary: A Bride for Christ

Feast Day: November 17

Patroness of brides, nurses, and widows

St. Elizabeth of Hungary didn’t live long- only 24 years- but she lived beautifully. Born into royalty in the early 1200s, Elizabeth was married young to a German nobleman, and together they shared a deep faith and love of service. After her husband's death, she chose a life of simplicity and charity, joining the Third Order of St. Francis and dedicating herself to the poor. Despite her royal background, Elizabeth lived with a profound humility and a heart fully surrendered to Christ.

One of the things I love most about her story is how she embraced her vocation- both as a wife and later as a woman dedicated entirely to God. She poured herself out in each season of her life, whether caring for her husband and children, or building hospitals and serving the sick with her own hands. She’s remembered as the patron saint of brides, a title that reflects her joyful embrace of marriage as a holy calling.

For Catholic brides looking for a tangible reminder of her example, I’ve created a simple and meaningful St. Elizabeth of Hungary Bride Necklace. It’s a gentle nod to her legacy- a reminder that every bride is called to both love deeply and serve well.

St. Elizabeth shows us that holiness is possible no matter our circumstances. Whether we’re in a palace or a small apartment, our “yes” to God can be just as powerful.