On Trinity Sunday, the faithful gathered in Köveskál for a special occasion of grace. Archbishop György Udvardy of Veszprém celebrated Holy Mass in the village and presented a relic of Blessed Mária Magdolna Bódi to the local community. As part of the celebration, the Archbishop also blessed a memorial plaque dedicated to the memory of the Blessed, and the day continued with the opening of an exhibition about Magdi’s life.
At the beginning of the Mass, representatives of the parish community and the local municipality welcomed Archbishop Udvardy. In their greetings, they emphasized the special significance of the relic’s arrival for Köveskál, as Blessed Mária Magdolna Bódi spent part of her childhood in the village. It was here that she learned to read and write, and where she first encountered the world of prayer and faith in the local church.
In his introductory remarks, Archbishop György Udvardy highlighted that when the Church entrusts the relic of a Blessed or a Saint to a community, it continues an ancient Christian tradition. Veneration of relics reminds us that the human person, body and soul, is called to holiness and that, through Christ, we are given the hope of resurrection. The Archbishop expressed his joy that the relic of Blessed Mária Magdolna Bódi could now return to a place that played an important role in her life.
In his homily, the Archbishop reflected on the mystery of the Holy Trinity. He pointed out that Jesus Christ not only taught about the Father but also drew us into a personal relationship with God. The Holy Spirit continues to grant strength, encouragement, and renewal to believers today, enabling them to live their Christian vocation faithfully.
Archbishop Udvardy also spoke about the inspiring example of Blessed Mária Magdolna Bódi. He recalled that although her life was marked by many difficulties and uncertainties from a human perspective, she remained steadfastly faithful to Christ. Filled with hope, creativity, and active charity, she reached out to others and was able to share the joy of the Gospel even in the most challenging circumstances. He emphasized that the richness of Magdi’s life continues to inspire us today to live our faith in everyday life, to practice works of love, and to draw strength from the Eucharist.
At the conclusion of the Mass, Archbishop György Udvardy solemnly presented Fr. József Baladincz, parish priest of Köveskál, with a relic of Blessed Mária Magdolna Bódi, taken from the relic preserved in the Cathedral Basilica of St. Michael in Veszprém, together with its certificate of authenticity. In the future, the relic will help the community of Köveskál remain faithful to Christ and strive for holiness.
As the closing event of the celebration, the Archbishop blessed the memorial plaque placed on the wall of the church and officially opened an exhibition on the life of Blessed Mária Magdolna Bódi in the village cultural center. The musical service during the Mass was provided by the Vox Cordis Choir of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Nagykanizsa under the direction of Tamás Kruppai. During the liturgy, children created “Magdi travelling stones,” which they later placed in front of the memorial plaque dedicated to her memory.
The arrival of the relic and the dedication of the memorial plaque mark another important milestone in the relationship between Köveskál and Blessed Mária Magdolna Bódi. For the community, this occasion is not only an opportunity for remembrance but also an invitation to draw strength from Magdi’s example and to continue striving to follow Christ and live out works of love in daily life.