Elizabeth grew up at Wartburg castle overlooking the town of Eisenach with her future husband, Ludwig, and his brothers and sister. At that time the Wartburg housed one of the wealthiest, most brilliant courts in Europe, and the atmosphere there was a worldly one.

But Elizabeth very early became aware of God and was drawn to him by love. She was fascinated by the chapel of the castle and would find every excuse she could, even while playing a game, to enter and genuflect before the altar.

Even though she was raised in wealth and luxury, she also became aware of her duties toward her neighbor. When she won something in a game, she would share it with children who were poor.

Elizabeth's growing love for God led her want to sacrifice for Him. She would leave the game or dance after one round and "give the rest to God." She stopped wearing some of her finery as a sacrifice. Even at this early age she began the process of conversion and penance that is at the heart of Christianity and the Franciscan vocation.

Spiritual reflection:

The foundation for our future life is laid in our childhood and youth. Holiness also begins in childhood, for learning to give oneself to God is a lifelong process. It was summed up by St. Paul: "I urge you therefore, brothers, by the mercies of God, to offer your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and pleasing to God, your spiritual worship. Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect" (Romans 12:1). Continually, throughout her life, Elizabeth sought to give herself to God in this way.

Gospel: "I will show you what someone is like who comes to me, listens to my words, and acts on them. That one is like a person building a house, who dug deeply and laid the foundation on rock; when the flood came, the river burst against that house but could not shake it because it had been well built" (Lk 6:47-48).