Elizabeth of the Trinity
Elizabeth of the Trinity was a French Discalced Carmelite, mystic, and spiritual writer known for her profound spiritual growth and devotion to God. Despite periods of uncertainty about her calling, she was recognized for her persistence in pursuing God's will and embracing the Carmelite charism. Her spirituality, marked by a deep experience of God's presence, influenced later Carmelite thought.
- Feast Day
- November 9
- Century
- 20th century
- Country Or Region
- France
Key Facts
- ›She was born Élisabeth Catez on July 18, 1880, in Avord, France.
- ›Elizabeth entered the Dijon Carmel on August 2, 1901.
- ›She was a gifted pianist with strong feelings for the Carmelite charism.
- ›Central to her spirituality were the names 'House of God,' 'Praise of Glory,' and 'Host of Praise.'
- ›Pope John Paul II beatified her on November 25, 1984.
- ›Pope Francis canonized her as a saint on October 16, 2016.
Élisabeth de la Trinité, Laudem Gloriae
Against Illness, Sick People, Loss of Parents
About Elizabeth of the Trinity
Elizabeth of the Trinity, born Élisabeth Catez, was a French Discalced Carmelite nun, mystic, and spiritual writer who lived from 1880 to 1906. She is recognized for the profound depth of her spiritual life and her fervent devotion to God, particularly the Holy Trinity.
Life and Historical Context
Born on July 18, 1880, in Avord, France, Elizabeth was the first child of Captain Joseph Catez and Marie Rolland. Her early life was marked by her father's unexpected death in 1887, after which her family moved to Dijon. She received her First Communion in 1891 and her Confirmation in 1892. Despite a spirited childhood temper, she developed greater self-control and a deep understanding of God after her First Communion. Elizabeth was a gifted pianist and felt a strong attraction to the Carmelite charism, eventually entering the Dijon Carmel on August 2, 1901, against her mother's initial advice.
Spirituality and Legacy
Elizabeth's spirituality was characterized by a deep sense of God's presence and love. She felt she received three spiritual names from God: House of God, Praise of Glory, and Host of Praise. Her writings convey an intense joy in her religious vocation, stating, "I can't find words to express my happiness. Here there is no longer anything but God. He is All; He suffices and we live by Him alone." Towards the end of her life, she began to call herself "Laudem Gloriae" (Praise of Glory), envisioning her heavenly mission to draw souls to God. Her spirituality is often noted for its similarity to that of her contemporary, Thérèse of Lisieux.
Beatification and Canonization
Elizabeth died on November 9, 1906, at the age of 26, from Addison's disease, accepting her suffering as a gift from God. Her last words were, "I am going to Light, to Love, to Life!" The process for her beatification began in 1931. She was declared Venerable by Pope John Paul II on July 12, 1982, after acknowledging her heroic virtue. Pope John Paul II beatified her on November 25, 1984. Pope Francis canonized her as a saint on October 16, 2016, following the approval of a second miracle.
Patronage and Feast Day
Her liturgical feast day is celebrated annually on November 9. Elizabeth of the Trinity is invoked as a patron against illness, for sick people, and for those who have lost their parents. Her most famous prayer is "Holy Trinity Whom I Adore."
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was Elizabeth of the Trinity born and when did she die?
Elizabeth of the Trinity was born on July 18, 1880, and died on November 9, 1906. She lived a relatively short life, passing away at the age of 26.
What was Elizabeth of the Trinity's religious affiliation?
Elizabeth of the Trinity was a French Discalced Carmelite nun. She entered the Dijon Carmel and dedicated her life to the Carmelite charism.
What are the key aspects of Elizabeth of the Trinity's spirituality?
Central to her spirituality were three names she felt she received from God: House of God, Praise of Glory, and Host of Praise. She emphasized experiencing God's presence in all aspects of life and clinging to God through a simple, loving movement.
When was Elizabeth of the Trinity canonized as a saint?
Elizabeth of the Trinity was beatified by Pope John Paul II on November 25, 1984. She was canonized as a saint by Pope Francis on October 16, 2016.
What is Elizabeth of the Trinity patron of?
Elizabeth of the Trinity is a patron saint against illness, of sick people, and of the loss of parents. Her feast day is celebrated annually on November 9.
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