Blessed Margaret Ball

Blessed Margaret Ball, also known as Maighréad Ball, Maighréad nic Fheorais, Margaret Bermingham, or Margherita Ball, was a devout lay woman hailing from the archdiocese of Dublin, Ireland. She was born around 1515 in Skreen, Meath, Ireland. Margaret lived a life of virtue and devotion, greatly influenced by her strong Catholic faith.

Margaret was married to Bartholomew Ball, a wealthy merchant. Despite their affluent position, Margaret remained humble and dedicated to serving the Church and those in need. During a period of intense persecution of the Catholic Church in Ireland, Margaret fearlessly opened her home to priests and bishops who were being hunted by the authorities. Her house became a sanctuary and refuge for these clergy, providing them with a safe haven amidst the tumultuous times.

Tragically, Margaret's eldest son, Walter, succumbed to the pressure from the authorities and renounced his Catholic faith, converting to Protestantism. Later, when Walter became the mayor of Dublin, he collaborated with the authorities in the persecution of Catholics, including his own mother. This led to Margaret's unjust imprisonment, where she endured general abuse and neglect.

Despite her sufferings, Margaret remained steadfast in her faith and offered her unjust suffering as a witness to the Catholic Church. Her perseverance and unwavering loyalty to God made her one of the Irish Martyrs, a group of courageous individuals who paid the ultimate price for their faith.

Margaret Ball's feast days are celebrated on June 20th and, on some calendars, January 30th. On July 6, 1991, Pope John Paul II recognized her exemplary life of holiness and officially venerated her, acknowledging her as a blessed soul in heaven. The beatification of Margaret Ball took place on September 27, 1992, also by Pope John Paul II, in Rome, Italy.

The life of Blessed Margaret Ball stands as a shining example of steadfast faith, unwavering commitment, and sacrificial love for the Church. Her legacy reminds us to remain faithful to our beliefs, even in times of persecution, and to be willing to stand up for the truth, regardless of the cost.