In three churches – in Balatonfűzfő and Litér – the community of the Archdiocese celebrated the placement of a relic of Blessed Mária Magdolna Bódi. Archbishop Dr. György Udvardy of Veszprém, within the Holy Mass, presented the relic of the virgin martyr to the parish communities, together with the official documents of authenticity, which he handed to parish priest Norbert Laposa.
These celebrations carried not only historical significance but also deeply touched the hearts of the faithful through their spiritual message: Magdi’s witness continues to call us today to draw strength from the Cross of Christ and to carry hope by consecrating our lives to God.
Balatonfűzfő – the vow of purity and the Way of the Cross.
On September 14, the Feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, Archbishop Udvardy blessed the new Stations of the Cross in the Sacred Heart Church of Balatonfűzfő and placed there the relic of Blessed Magdi. In his homily he emphasized:
“The Cross is the sign that God has reconciled us with Himself. It is not merely a piece of wood or an instrument of torture, but the tree of life, for Christ gave His life upon it for us. It is the symbol of infinite love, and even more: it always signifies for us the goodness of God.”
It is of special importance that it was in this church where Mária Magdolna Bódi professed her vow of purity. Here she gave her life to Christ, here she drew strength from her daily prayers. “It is not we who walk the Way of the Cross of Jesus Christ, but He who walks it within us, in our lives. That is why we are able to identify with each station,” the Archbishop underlined.
After the Mass, Archbishop Udvardy, together with the priests and the faithful, processed to the Church of St. Ladislaus in Balatonfűzfő-Gyártelep, where Magdi drew strength daily from the Eucharist – the very church where the memory of her Masses and morning prayers is preserved. The Archbishop reminded:
“How good it is to see in someone’s life that the Eucharist was daily nourishment, strength, and encouragement. From here Magdi drew the strength to persevere in her work and among people.”
This church also houses the relic of Blessed Bishop Zoltán Meszlényi, who consecrated the church. Thus, in this community, the witness of two martyrs intertwines: one as an example of fidelity and obedience, the other of courageous purity.
Litér – the place of martyrdom.
On September 15, the Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows, Magdi’s relic was placed in Litér – the very site of her martyrdom. During her lifetime no church yet stood there, but it was on this ground that she gave her life for Christ.
Here, the Archbishop’s words touched hearts with particular depth:
“Mary gives us an example of carrying hope in our hearts, as she did from Good Friday to Easter morning. It was in her heart alone that the certainty of God’s faithfulness lived. Thus, hope can be for us, too, a source of strength – even in difficulties.”
For the people of Litér, Magdi is not merely a historical memory: her life and martyrdom proclaim the nearness of holiness and testify that an ordinary person can also consecrate his or her life to God.
“If any of us should ever doubt whether it is possible to live a life wholly given to God, let us come here. And let us learn from Blessed Magdi’s example, who even in martyrdom lived with the spirit of Christ,” concluded the Archbishop.
On behalf of the community, parish priest Norbert Laposa expressed gratitude to the Archbishop for the gift of Blessed Bódi Mária Magdolna’s relic. He emphasized that this is not only a great gift but also a responsibility: it is now their duty even more to pass on Magdi’s memory and example. He asked for the Archbishop’s prayerful support so that they may welcome pilgrims with love and give witness through their own lives. He noted that many have already experienced grace at these places where Magdi once lived.
The celebrations in the three churches shared one common message: the Cross of Christ does not carry the darkness of suffering, but the light of life, resurrection, and hope. The example of Blessed Bódi Mária Magdolna – who lived in obedience, purity, and poverty – encourages the faithful to find the direction of their daily lives in God’s love.
The placement of the relics is thus not only a historical moment but also a renewal of the community’s faith: a sign calling us to belong to Christ together with Magdi and to live in the hope of eternal life.
Let us pray for the canonization of Blessed Bódi Mária Magdolna!