On November 5, the Church celebrates the feast of Saint Emeric, Prince of Hungary, the son of King Saint Stephen. He is venerated as the patron of youth, purity, and vocational fidelity. His life is not only a testimony from the past but also a living call for every Christian today — to follow God’s will, to love with a pure heart, and to serve with faithfulness.
Saint Emeric’s story is deeply connected to Veszprém, where, according to tradition, he was raised at the royal court and within the heart of the diocese. Here, his spiritual life deepened, and his holiness matured. Guided by Saint Gerard and inspired by the early saints of the Hungarian Church, Emeric grew to become a man of God. His life, though brief, was full — his vow of chastity and his faithfulness to God became one of the brightest symbols of Hungarian sanctity.
Eight centuries later, another witness to purity and faith was born from this same land and Church: Blessed Mária Magdolna Bódi, the virgin martyr of Veszprém.
Just as Saint Emeric’s life was marked by purity of faith, Magdi’s life shone with steadfast love for God and a heart devoted to Him. Both offered their lives while still young — Emeric through obedience and self-restraint, Magdi through martyrdom. Though centuries apart, the same light shines in both: the radiance of a pure heart and the beauty of a life given wholly to God.
Saint Emeric teaches us that fidelity is not weakness but strength — a power that flows from God’s love.
Blessed Mária Magdolna Bódi reminds us that purity is not an ideal of the past, but a hope for the future — the freedom of a heart anchored in God.
Both were young in age but mature in spirit: Emeric in the royal court, Magdi in the factory and before the altar — both chose the path of holiness.
In their lives, the land of Veszprém once again bears witness that sanctity is not an exception but a calling — and that a life consecrated to God continues to shine through those who are ready to say:
“Thy will be done.”