Saint Elizabeth of The Trinity

Biography

Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity, born as Elizabeth Catez on Sunday, July 18, 1880, in a military camp in the diocese of Bourges, France, was the daughter of Captain Joseph Catez and Marie Catez. Tragically, when Elizabeth was just seven years old, her father passed away, leaving her mother to raise Elizabeth and her sister Marguerite.

From an early age, Elizabeth demonstrated a lively and popular nature, but also a strong-willed and stubborn disposition, often succumbing to fits of rage. Yet, underneath her spirited demeanor, Elizabeth possessed a deep reverence for God and an early attraction to a life of prayer and reflection. In addition to her spiritual inclinations, she was also a gifted pianist.

In her youth, Elizabeth's devotion to God grew, and she began visiting the sick and teaching catechism to children. However, much to her mother's consternation, Elizabeth made the decision to enter the Discalced Carmelite monastery in Dijon, France, on August 2, 1901. Although she experienced tremendous spiritual growth during her time in the monastery, she also faced periods of intense darkness, which plagued her deeply. This led her spiritual director to express doubts about Elizabeth's vocation.

Undeterred by these challenges, Elizabeth persevered and completed her novitiate, taking her final vows on January 11, 1903. Throughout her life, she served as a spiritual director for many individuals, offering guidance and support on their own spiritual journeys. Elizabeth's letters and retreat guides left a lasting legacy of profound spiritual wisdom.

Tragically, Elizabeth's life was cut short due to Addison's disease, a hormone disorder with painful and exhausting side effects. She passed away on November 9, 1906, in Dijon, Côte-d’Or, France. In her final moments, she uttered the powerful words, "I am going to light, to love, to life!"

Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity was venerated on July 12, 1982, by Pope John Paul II, who recognized her heroic virtues. She was beatified on November 25, 1984, by Pope John Paul II, with her beatification miracle involving the healing of a priest suffering from a severe medical condition. Finally, she was canonized on October 16, 2016, by Pope Francis in a ceremony held at Saint Peter's Square in Vatican City, Rome, Italy. The canonization miracle occurred in July 2002 and involved the healing of a woman suffering from Sj√∏gren's syndrome while on a pilgrimage to the Discalced Carmelite monastery in Dijon, where Saint Elizabeth had resided.

Saint Elizabeth of the Trinity, known for her unwavering devotion to God amidst personal struggles, is revered as the patron saint against bodily ills, the death of parents, illness, sickness, and for the intercession for sick people. Her life continues to inspire countless individuals seeking spiritual growth and solace in their own lives.