00:00Margaret, an English princess, was born in Hungary around 1045, in exile.
00:06The daughter of Edward the exiled, she returned to England, then fled from William the Conqueror after 1066,
00:14She finds refuge in Scotland with her family.
00:16His destiny changed radically.
00:19Around 1070, she married Malcolm III, the King of Scots, and became queen.
00:26Gentle, intelligent and deeply pious, Marguerite exerts a major influence on her husband, a man of rough character.
00:36Malcolm, won over by her virtue, fully supports her ambitions.
00:42His principal work was the reform of the Scottish Church.
00:45It harmonizes local practices with those of Rome, improves the discipline of the clergy,
00:51promotes a more compliant liturgy and founds churches, including the important abbey of Dunfermlein.
00:58But above all, his heart beat for the most destitute.
01:02Every day, she fed hundreds of poor people, washed their feet, and personally cared for the sick and the
01:09orphans.
01:11She spent lavishly to ransom captives and alleviate poverty.
01:15His charity was legendary.
01:19She also introduced education and culture to the court, stimulating trade and enriching the kingdom.
01:27Margaret was also an exemplary mother to her eight children, several of whom would become kings of Scotland.
01:33She carefully oversaw their Christian education, instilling in them justice and compassion.
01:40She died in 1093, heartbroken by the recent loss of her husband and eldest son.
01:47in combat.
01:48Today, Saint Margaret of Scotland is the patron saint of her country.
01:53She is celebrated as an exceptional queen, who was able to combine personal holiness with effective governance.
02:00She remains a model of charity, religious reform, and commitment to the well-being of her people.
02:08reminding us that humility and service are the greatest virtues, even at the height of power.
02:15His feast day is November 16th.
02:17Subtitling by Radio-Canada
