Homily: August 16 - St. Stephen of Hungary

Today’s saint used his considerable political powers and military skills to Christianize Hungary.  His pagan father was the chief of the Magyars, a group of raiders who had come into Hungary the century before.  The family converted to Christianity and was baptized together with Stephen was 10 years old.

When he succeeded his father, his people were given to violence and revolt, but Stephen guided his people toward Christianity by admitting missionaries from Bavaria into his country.  This attempt was initially met with hostility, the people wanted to hang on to their old religion and old pagan ways.  But Stephen fasted and prayed, he established monasteries and built churches.  He also made blasphemy and adultery crimes. 

Through his strict, yet benevolent rule, brought about order and peace.  With Rome’s approval, Stephen was crowned king on Christmas Day in 1000.

Stephen was a true evangelizer of his country.  We can see in the saints how whether one is a king or pauper, one is called to work for the spread of the Gospel.  He consecrated the nation to Mary, whom he called “the Great Lady”, he, himself gave religious instruction to the poor, and in view of his many good works and spread of the faith, the pope bestowed on him the title “Apostolic King.” 

A Hungarian parish here in the diocese of Cleveland, is named after St. Stephen’s son, St. Emeric.  Cleveland, in fact, is a hub in the united states for immigration from Hungary. 

Listen to these powerful words, St. Stephen wrote to his son, St. Emeric: “I urge you above all things to maintain the catholic and apostolic faith with such diligence and care that you may be an example for all those placed under you by God.”

We are reminded by St. Stephen of Hungary’s example the importance of our Faith in civic life, and the necessity to work for the spread of the faith where it has been abandoned or where it has not taken root, in our towns and in our hearts.    

St. Stephen built his house on the solid rock of the Gospel.  He was not spared hardship or suffering, his evangelical efforts were met with resistance, but he entrusted his work to Our Lady, sought to conform himself with Christ, and fasted and prayed for the spread of God’s kingdom.  In the end, he is not honored for being a king, but being a faithful disciple of Jesus Christ.

By St. Stephen’s example and prayers, may all we do today be for the spread of God’s kingdom, for the glory of God and salvation of souls.