October 29, 2015 WBB Feast Days & Holidays, WBB Primary, REL Seasons - Feast Days/Holidays, REL Asset - Activity, REL Catechetical - K–6, REL Topic- Saints
By: Allie Johnston
Teaching children about saints is a wonderful way to engage them in the rich history of the Catholic faith. Teaching children about saints also provides inspiring examples of discipleship and models for living out their faith.
On November 16, the Church celebrates the Feast Day of Saint Margaret of Scotland. Saint Margaret of Scotland was born around the year 1045, Margaret was an English princess who grew up in exile in Hungary. As a child, Margaret developed a great love of reading and prayer. She learned about the duties and manners involved in being a princess. She was also impressed by the importance of the practice of the Catholic faith in Hungary.
When Margaret's father became heir to the throne of England, the family returned to England. At this time, Edward the Confessor ruled England. When King Edward died, Norman invader William the Conqueror seized the English throne. Margaret’s family decided to return to safety in Hungary. En route, a storm forced the family to land in the kingdom of Scotland, where King Malcolm III welcomed and protected them. Soon, Margaret and Malcolm married, making Margaret queen of Scotland.
Malcolm respected Margaret. He valued her help and advice. Though he had a reputation as a fierce warrior and brave protector of Scotland, Margaret directed his attention to the other responsibilities of a king. Together, they improved living conditions within the kingdom and encouraged learning and the arts. Margaret herself supervised the construction of monasteries and made sure the communities had what they needed to thrive. She personally took care of the poor and the sick. Malcolm often joined her in these works of charity.
Margaret also cared for their eight children and supervised their education. She knew that they might grow up to be rulers as well, and wanted them to be prepared for that honor and responsibility. Margaret and Malcolm's daughter married the king of England and was known as Good Queen Maud for her kindness to the poor. Their son, David, became king of Scotland, and after his death was canonized a saint.
Saint Margaret of Scotland saw her position as queen as an opportunity to help others. She used her resources and influence to improve the lives of her people. Her example inspired her family and the people of Scotland to take seriously their responsibility to others.
Download a printable Saint Margaret of Scotland Activity in English or Spanish to celebrate her Feast Day with the students in your religious education program. Also explore the Saints section of the Sadlier Religion PubHub as you are teaching children about saints in your home or program throughout the year.