The Saints: St. Wenceslas

C. 907-929 / Feast - Sept. 28

When the duke of Bohemia (now in the Czech Republic) died, his wife began ruling as regent for their son, Wenceslas. Her sometimes violent, unjust dealings with the people prompted the 15-year-old to assume power in 922. As duke he tried to maintain peace and convert his subjects to Christianity. But a malcontent younger brother, Boleslaw, plotted against him, provoking a fight in which his henchmen murdered Wenceslas. This “good king” of the Christmas carol was venerated immediately as a martyr.