16 August 2014
Memorial of Saint Stephen of Hungary
Today we recognize the feast of St. Stephen of Hungry (b. 975), who was crowed King of Hungary in 1001. He promoted Christianity in Hungry by asking the pope to set up more churches and abolished pagan customs. He was very beloved by the people especially the poor and died in 1038.
The daily readings for today speak about what it means to live a virtuous life in the eyes of God. While the first reading points out each person will be judged according to his or her ways, there is the hope that one can cast away his or her crimes and return back to God (Ezekiel 18:30-31). One of the central points to the Spiritual Exercises is to promote a more virtuous life (Presupposition of the Spiritual Exercises). This virtuous life is strengthened when one is able to admit his or her faults (1st Week of the Exercises), and walk with Jesus during His life (2nd Week) and His Death (3rd Week) in order to share in His Resurrection (4th Week).
St. Stephen of Hungary, pray for us!