On 19 April, members of the Sovereign Hospitaller Order of St. John of Jerusalem, Grand Priory of Hungary gathered in Budapest for a solemn and reflective occasion marking both a thanksgiving service and the commemoration of Heroes’ Day.
The event was held at the Reformed Congregational Church of Outer Józsefváros, where we were warmly received by our host, the Reverend Dávid Emil Kovács. Representatives of the National Association of War Disabled, War Widows and War Orphans were also present, joining us in a shared act of remembrance and gratitude.
The service itself was marked by a profound sense of reverence. This was deepened by the moving performance of harpist Klára Bábel, whose music brought a quiet intensity to the moment and resonated deeply with those in attendance.
Following the tolling of the church bells, a wreath-laying ceremony took place at the memorial plaque dedicated to the War Disabled, War Widows and War Orphans. The ceremony was opened by the Order, led by Chevalier Csaba Fórizs, Chancellor of the Grand Priory. Wreaths were then laid by József Ipacs, President of the National Association, and representatives of the Vitézi Rend, including Count János Molnár-Gazsó and Baroness Szilvia Ildikó Bánffy de Losonc.
The commemoration concluded with a charity luncheon, offering a more informal setting in which members and guests could come together in fellowship. It was a time not only for conversation, but for strengthening the bonds that unite our community in shared purpose and service.
We extend our sincere gratitude to all who attended, and to those who held the occasion in their thoughts and prayers.
Ut Unum Sint.
