Throughout the history of Christianity, there have always been those who gave their lives for Christ — in the name of the greatest love. Martyrs are not merely heroic victims; their sacrifice is the deepest testimony of faith, the ultimate manifestation of love. Bódi Mária Magdolna, who will be beatified on September 6, 2025, in the Archdiocese of Veszprém, is a shining figure of this testimony — a 23-year-old young woman who died in the spring of 1945 for the sake of her purity and faith, eighty years ago.
Magdi’s life was gentle, quiet, and filled with service — but when the ultimate trial came, she did not retreat. She resisted the violent advances of a Soviet soldier and chose to give her life rather than lose her purity. Her life, preserved wholly for Christ, remains a powerful example for us today — especially for young people seeking authenticity and true values.
In the “Thistle and Lily – Flowers of the Magdolnas” exhibition recently opened by the Boldog Gizella Archdiocesan Collection, visitors can view a unique object: a small thorn, which, according to the Latin inscription beside it, is said to have come from the crown of thorns worn by Jesus. Although its certificate of authenticity has been lost — and it cannot be venerated as a relic — it still powerfully reminds us of the sacrifice Jesus made for us.
And here, the thorn resting in its delicate filigree reliquary and Magdi’s sacrifice for her faith are deeply connected. Just as the small thorn points to the suffering and offering of Christ, so too can we see Christ reflected in Magdi’s life and death. The cross is not only a sign of the Savior’s pain, but also a calling for every Christian: “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself, take up his cross, and follow me.” (Mt 16:24)
As the day of Magdi’s beatification approaches, let us not look upon her merely as a figure of the past, but as a living witness who still speaks to us: there is meaning in purity, there is value in sacrifice, and there is great dignity in courage — when it is done out of love for Christ.