Margaret of Scotland, Queen and Mother, 1045-1093

Margaret was born in Hungary, the daughter of royal parents. Margaret and her husband, King Malcolm, had six sons and two daughters. Contrary to the general practice of royalty in that time, Margaret took charge of raising and educating her children. King Malcolm was good-hearted, but rough and uncultured. Because of his love for Margaret, she was able to soften his temper and she became his advisor in state matters. It was said that the main goals of Malcolm and Margaret were to maintain justice, to establish religion, and to keep their subjects happy. Margaret encouraged arts and education in her adopted country and instigated religious reform. With her husband, she founded several churches. They cared for the poor and homeless, and allowed their faith to rule their lives.

A heavy responsibility falls on those who have been given exalted positions. Margaret and her husband recognized the need to provide for those who were less fortunate than themselves. We too must do the same.