Margaret came from royalty and was well educated, mostly in Hungary, where she and her family were forced to live in exile during the Danish rule in England. After the Norman Conquest, Margaret’s life was again in danger because she was one of the last surviving members of the Anglo-Saxon royal family. This time Margaret sought refuge in the court of Malcolm III, king of Scotland. Margaret’s beauty, intelligence, and grace won the love and respect of Malcolm, whom Margaret soon married.

King Malcolm was rough and uneducated, but Margaret’s goodness soon changed him into a kind, caring man. Margaret’s loving and generous ways became Malcolm’s loving and generous ways.

Throughout the kingdom, Margaret was loved for her generosity, service, and prayerfulness. She was a woman of royalty and privilege, yet she served others as Jesus served.

St. Margaret’s feast day is celebrated on November 16. She is the patron saint of Scotland, and is honored throughout that country and the Church at large.

Family Activity

	Discuss the good things Queen Margaret of Scotland did. Make bookmarks to share the message that when we serve others, we are being like Jesus.

	•		You will need crayons or markers and pre-cut posterboard or heavy construction-paper strips.
	•		Work together making and decorating bookmarks that declare: "Be like Jesus: Serve others!"
	•		Encourage family members to give their bookmarks to someone they know who wants to follow Jesus.