Saint of the Month: St. Margaret of Scotland
Written by Austin Carriere
Life Story
This Saint of the Month is St. Margaret of Scotland. Margaret was born as an English princess in Hungary to the Princess of Hungary and English Prince Edward in 1045. Ten years after her birth, she returned to England with her family because Prince Edward had a chance of becoming king. Sadly, Prince Edward died shortly after their arrival in England. After William the Conqueror took the throne, they fled to Northumbria (southern Scotland). A storm pushed their boat into Scotland, and where they landed is now known as St. Margaret’s Hope.
“St. Margaret demonstrated holiness in all her actions and her influence on others. To live like St. Margaret, you can help and treat others with respect.”
The King of Scotland, Malcolm III, welcomed Margaret and her family. He was soon enamored by Margaret’s kindness and beauty. They had eight children, all of whom were raised in a deeply Catholic household. Margaret was not only a virtuous person but also a profound influence, especially on Malcolm. She calmed him and led him down more virtuous paths. She promoted education and corrected abuses among bishops, priests, and laypeople. Over her life, she helped the poor in Scotland and encouraged devout lives among all people. She often fasted and slept little to maintain her devotions. Margaret lived an extremely holy life as a wife, queen, and mother.
In 1093, Malcolm died in the Battle of Alnwick. Shortly afterward, Margaret died due to her extreme fasting on November 16, 1093. Even though her life was not adventurous, she helped mold and shape a great king, kingdom, and community.
Application to Our Lives
I think St. Margaret of Scotland is a splendid example that you do not need to live an adventurous life to live a virtuous one. Margaret demonstrated holiness in all her actions and her influence on others. To live like St. Margaret, you can help and treat others with respect. Additionally, you can aid others in their spiritual lives by inviting them to confession during the second half of lunch or sitting in the second-floor chapel during adoration. You can also focus more on self-improvement by setting aside time for prayer, going to confession, and attending Mass on Sundays.
Prayer
St. Margaret of Scotland, pray for me that I may strive to be as faithful a servant of God as you were. Pray that I may always seek to carry out God’s will in my life, no matter what difficulties I might face.