Two First Generation Franciscan Women

In reading the last two posts, on Blessed Salome and Saint Elizabeth, I notice many striking similarities between the two and interesting facts. Both were born of wealthy, royal families and lived in the same era as St. Francis and St. Clare. (St. Francis was born in 1182, St. Clare, in 1194, Blessed Salome, in 1201, and St. Elizabeth, in 1207.)

Both were betrothed during childhood, and both married into wealthy, royal families. Both couples were very pious and honored the spiritual life and calling of their spouses. Both were happily married and became widows in their 20’s. Both used their wealth and their lives to support and care for the poor. They were related by marriage, as Salome married the brother of Elizabeth. Salome and Elizabeth both joined the Third Order of Franciscans with Salome becoming a Poor Clare later.

One thing which struck me in particular is how far and wide the Franciscan Orders spread in such a short period. Elizabeth’s husband died when she was 20 (1227) and she became a member of the Third Order before he died and probably before St. Francis died in 1226. She was the first member in Germany.

Salome also became a member of the Third Order before her husband died in 1225 and before St. Francis died. In 1240 she entered the convent of the Poor Clares at Zawichost, Poland, while St. Clare was still living.

What comments would you like to make about these two first generation Franciscan women?