Premontre Church Consecrated in Gödöllo, Marking Historic Revival

GÖDÖLLO: The Premontre Church in Gödöllo has been consecrated, symbolizing a significant revival for the Premontrean order in Hungary. The order, which has been present in the country for over 900 years, has played a crucial role in shaping local culture, education, and faith. However, its influence was severely disrupted in the 20th century due to political and social upheavals.

According to KDNP, the Premontrean order faced significant challenges during the 20th century. Events such as the Treaty of Trianon and the Communist takeover led to the loss of their ecclesiastical and educational institutions. These institutions were either attacked or dissolved, particularly after 1945, with monastic orders disbanded by 1950. It wasn’t until the regime change that the Premontreans could resume their educational and religious activities, expanding their efforts from Szombathely to Keszthely and Gödöllo.

The state secretary responsible for church and ethnic relations, Miklós Soltész, emphasized the considerable im
pact of the Premontreans’ work in Hungary. He acknowledged the government’s support in the development and aspirations of Hungarian churches, expressing gratitude for their contributions over the past nine centuries.

The construction of the Church of St. Augustine of the Premontre Abbey of Gödöllo was supported by the government as part of the 900th anniversary of the Premontre Order’s foundation. The funding facilitated the planning, construction, and furnishing of the church, which includes altars, pews, stalls, an organ, and a statue. The support also covered decorative painting and stained glass windows. The newly consecrated church holds significance for parish members, high school students and their families, alumni, and companies affiliated with the order.