St. Wenceslaus
Duke of Bohemia and Martyr
Feast Day: September 28
Biography
St. Wenceslaus (Václav in Czech) was born around 907 near Prague, the son of Duke Vratislaus I of Bohemia. His grandmother St. Ludmila, who had been baptized with her husband, raised him in the Christian faith. After his father's death, his mother, Drahomíra, acted as regent. Tensions between Christian and pagan factions at court were intense, and in 921 Ludmila was murdered. Around 924 or 925 Wenceslaus took up rule himself. He worked to strengthen the Church in Bohemia, supported priests and missionaries, built churches, including the first church of St. Vitus in Prague, and was remembered for his generosity to the poor, widows, and prisoners. To protect his people, he made peace with the German king Henry I, a policy that angered some of the nobles. His younger brother, Boleslaus, joined the discontented faction. On September 28, 935 (some sources give 929), Wenceslaus was attacked and killed at Stará Boleslav by his brother and his followers as he went to church for morning Mass. He was soon venerated as a martyr, and his relics were brought to St. Vitus in Prague. He is the patron of the Czech people. The nineteenth-century English carol 'Good King Wenceslas' is based on legend, not history. St. Lawrence Ruiz and Companions are also honored today.
Patronages
Symbols
Prayer
St. Wenceslaus, faithful Christian ruler, you used your authority to serve the poor and to build up the Church. Pray for all who hold public office, that they may govern with justice and mercy. When conflict divides my family or community, help me to seek peace, to forgive, and to put Christ first in all things. Amen.
Asking for Intercession
Catholics ask saints to pray with us and for us, as we ask friends on earth. St. Wenceslaus, who lives in God's presence, intercedes before His throne. Speak from your heart: “St. Wenceslaus, please pray for me…” You may also pray the prayer above or include this intention in your Rosary.