The community of the Archdiocese of Veszprém is preparing with joy and enthusiasm for the beatification of Magdolna Bódi Mária. The primary goal of this preparation is to ensure that more people come to know the cheerful, vibrant, creative, and steadfastly Christ-centered personality of young Magdi. The preparations are unfolding not only on a practical level but also spiritually, inspired by Magdi’s virtues.
For nearly a month, we have come to know Magdi as someone with a special love for nature—the Balaton, hills, trees, flowers, and hiking. Together with her, we have marveled at all that she cherished as tangible signs of God’s abundant love. During the Advent season, from December 1 to 24, the watchwords of purpose and hope will guide us as we prepare our hearts for the celebration of Christmas and Magdi’s beatification.
Magdi’s life example is especially inspiring during the Advent preparations. “With our Christian hope, we base our lives on God’s promises. We move toward the fulfillment of life, and this goal shapes how we experience today’s joys, challenges, and sufferings,” reminds us the central thought of spiritual preparation in Advent.
Magdi’s life was imbued with the awareness of friendship with Christ. She understood that this friendship does not end within the bounds of earthly life but is fulfilled in eternity. “This eternal goal attracted her in everyday moments, in the beautiful celebrations, and in the darkest hours. Nothing could separate her from her Divine Spouse, and so she reached her goal.” Magdolna’s example teaches us to persevere in our relationship with God despite challenges, as “eternal friendship with Christ is also accessible to us—even this Advent.”
This purposeful hope can guide us in self-discovery and in serving our neighbors by the light of the Advent candles, in prayerful moments, and in the quiet anticipation of the celebration. As we prepare for the holy night of Christmas, we will also have the opportunity to deepen our understanding of Magdi during the spiritual preparation for her beatification.
During Advent, we jointly seek the intercession of the saintly Magdi, that our faith, hope, and love may be strengthened, and that we may worthily await the coming of our Lord.