(1271-1336) Known as “The Peacemaker,” Saint Elizabeth of Portugal, the great-niece of Saint Elizabeth of Hungary, was born in Spain and was married at age 12 to King Diniz of Portugal. King Diniz was abusive and adulterous, fathering at least seven children without her help. Elizabeth prayed constantly for his conversion, which came late in his life. Her body was found miraculously incorrupt 276 years after her death.

At least twice, Elizabeth rode into the middle of a battlefield to broker peace (once between her husband and son, and once between her son and grandson-in-law), earning her the title “The Peacemaker.” In Steps 8, 9, and 10, we strive to broker peace in the mess we have made in our lives and maintain peace going forward. Part of making amends is forgiving wrongs against us. Forgiveness is not forgetfulness, it is releasing another from the grudge or debt you have held. On the other side of making amends, by asking others for forgiveness, we try to make right what we have set wrong. And in daily maintenance (Step 10), we practice humility and honesty and admit when we are off track.

“If you love peace, all will be well” (Saint Elizabeth of Portugal).

Reflection by Brad Farmer