Feast of Beata Teresa del Portogallo

Beata Teresa del Portogallo, ora pro nobis

Blessed Theresa of Portugal was a 13th-century Portuguese infanta known for her piety, charitable works, and commitment to religious life. She was the daughter of King Sancho I of Portugal and Queen Dulce of Aragon, and the sister of St. Sancha and King Afonso II.

In 1191, Theresa married King Alfonso IX of León, a union that was later annulled by the Church on the grounds of consanguinity. Despite the annulment, she continued to maintain a dignified relationship with Alfonso and took a deep interest in the welfare of their children. After the separation, she returned to Portugal and dedicated herself to a life of prayer, penance, and charity.

Theresa retired to the Monastery of Lorvão, which she transformed into a Cistercian convent. There, she eventually took religious vows and became an abbess. She was known for her humility, generosity to the poor, and support of monastic reform.

Blessed Theresa of Portugal died on June 17, 1250. She was beatified by Pope Clement XI in 1705. Her feast day is celebrated on June 17th. Evviva Beata Teresa del Portogallo!

Prayer to Blessed Theresa

Pour out upon us, Lord, the spirit of knowledge and love of you, with which you filled your handmaid, blessed Teresa, so that, serving you sincerely in imitation of her, we may be pleasing to you by our faith and our works. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the unity of the Holy Spirit, God, forever and ever. Amen.