Revered as the general who secured Portugal's independence, he gave away his wealth after his wife's death and became a Carmelite brother. Taking the name Nuno of Saint Mary, he spent his last years humbly serving the poor.
Life
Saint Nuno Álvares Pereira was a Portuguese nobleman and soldier born in 1360. As Constable of Portugal he defended the country when its independence was threatened, and he is best known for the victory at the Battle of Aljubarrota in 1385.
After his wife's death he gave away his property and entered the Carmelite monastery in Lisbon as a lay brother, living as Brother Nuno of Saint Mary. Setting aside his high rank, he lived humbly, caring for the poor, until his death in 1431. Pope Benedict XVI canonized him in 2009.
Spirituality
Nuno's spirituality is deep love for the Virgin Mary and humility. He never abandoned prayer even on the battlefield, and at the height of his glory he gave up everything to take the lowest place in the monastery. His life shows that true greatness lies in service.
Reflection
Nuno stepped down from a place of glory to serve the poor. Among the honors and positions I cling to, what could I hand over to God?