The Archdiocese of Veszprém is preparing for a historic event: by the decision of the Holy Father, Mária Magdolna Bódi will be beatified in April 2025. The ceremonial commencement of preparations took place on October 26, the anniversary of her vow of chastity. On this occasion, Archbishop Michael Wallace Banach, titular archbishop of Memphis and Apostolic Nuncio to Hungary, visited the archdiocese at the invitation of Archbishop György Udvardy and celebrated Mass in Saint Michael’s Cathedral in Veszprém.
The apostolic visit serves as a special occasion for the community of the faithful to draw closer to Christ and the Church, praying for God’s blessing on the beatification process.
The memory of Mária Magdolna Bódi’s life and her vow of chastity holds great significance. Magdi had a deep love for children and held the institution of family in high regard. She recognized that God’s holy plan is realized in Christian marriage, experiencing the dignity and role of motherhood profoundly. Yet, in 1941, during an Ignatian retreat, she discerned a different calling from God — a life of chastity and apostolic lay commitment.
She made her vow of chastity on October 26, 1941, on the Feast of Christ the King, in the Sacred Heart of Jesus Church in Balatonfűzfő. This decision, marked by depth and seriousness, permeated her entire life. Through her private vow, she dedicated herself to Christ as His bride, even though she could not fulfill her desire to enter the religious life.
On October 26, not only do we celebrate Magdolna’s vow of chastity, but we also begin preparations for her beatification. This event invites us to deepen our knowledge and love for her, who stands as a model for all of us in faith, self-sacrifice, and love.
