St. Margaret is the patron saint of Scotland. Born to Princess Agatha of Hungary and the Anglo-Saxon Prince Edward Atheling, she spent her early years in the court of her great-uncle, King Edward the Confessor of England. After escaping the advance of William the Conqueror, her family faced a shipwreck on the Scottish coast, where they were befriended by King Malcolm Canmore. Captivated by Margaret's beauty, Malcolm married her at Dunfermline Castle in 1070. Margaret and Malcolm had six sons and two daughters, and she took an active role in overseeing their religious and academic education. In addition to being a devoted wife and mother, she worked tirelessly to bring justice and relief to the poor. Margaret played a significant role in building churches and promoting religious practices in Scotland. Her faith greatly influenced Malcolm's reign, softening his temper and inspiring him toward virtue. She elevated the dignity of the court and set an example of purity that others admired. Despite her status, Margaret lived a simple and austere life, dedicating specific times for prayer and Scripture reading, and practicing modest eating habits. Margaret and Malcolm observed two Lents each year, during which she would rise at midnight for Mass, wash the feet of six impoverished individuals, and provide them with alms. She was known for always being surrounded by beggars, ensuring that nine orphans and 24 adults were fed before her own meals. In 1093, King William Rufus attacked Alnwick Castle, resulting in the deaths of King Malcolm and their eldest son, Edward. Margaret, already gravely ill, passed away just four days later. In recognition of her exemplary life, Pope Innocent IV canonized her in 1250.
Prayer:
O God, who made Saint Margaret of Scotland wonderful in her outstanding charity towards the poor, grant that through her intercession and example, we may reflect among all humanity the image of your divine goodness.
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