First Christian king of Hungary in the eleventh century, who built the nation on faith and law.
Life
Saint Stephen of Hungary was born around 975, the son of a Hungarian grand prince, and was baptized in his youth and raised in the Christian faith. Succeeding his father, he was crowned the first king of Hungary around the year 1000.
Wishing to build a Christian kingdom, he founded dioceses and monasteries, welcomed missionaries and organized the laws and institutions of the land. He also worked to care for the poor, yet he suffered the great sorrow of losing his only surviving son, Emeric, before his own death.
He died in 1038 and was canonized in 1083. Patron of Hungary, he is remembered by the Church on August 16.
Spirituality
Stephen's spirituality is the use of power as service. He saw his kingship as a responsibility received from God and ruled for the faith and justice of his people. He urged his son toward humility, mercy and prayer, seeking to pass the faith on to the next generation.
Reflection
Each of us holds some authority, large or small, at work, at home or in our groups. Would you take a moment today to ask whether you are using your position and influence to serve others?