Saint of the Day: St. Emeric

King (1006-1031)

His life

+ Emeric was born in Veszprém, Hungary, and was the Stephen, the king of who is credited with having brought Christianity to that nation.

+ Educated by Saint Gerard Sagredo and his Benedictine companions, all of his training and formation were intended to prepare him to assume the throne.

+ In 1022, Emeric married, although the name of his wife has been lost to history.

+ Emeric died following a hunting accident on September 2, 1031, at the age of 24.

+ Following his death, several miraculous cures and conversions were attributed to his intercession. His relics were enshrined in 1083 and he was declared a saint in recognition of his piety and devotion.

+ Saint Emeric is honored as a patron of Hungary and those of Hungarian descent.

For prayer and reflection

The man of God welcomes the light that searches his deeds and finds them true.—Benedictus Antiphon for the Common of Holy Men from The Liturgy of the Hours

Spiritual bonus

On November 5, the Church also honors the memory of Saints Zechariah and Elizabeth, the parents of Saint John the Baptist.

Prayer

All powerful God,
Help us who celebrate the memory of Saint Emeric
to imitate his way of life.
May the example of your saints
be our challenge to live holier lives.
Grant this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son,
who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit,
God for ever and ever. Amen.

(from The Liturgy of the Hours: Common of Holy Men)

Saint profiles prepared by Brother Silas Henderson, S.D.S.