Memories from the Past

Today is the feast day of Saint Gellért (980–1046), a Benedictine monk, bishop, and martyr of Venetian origin, who was one of the most important figures in Hungarian Christianity. Upon arriving in Hungary, he lived for a time at the Benedictine monastery in Bakonybél, where he prepared for his future mission through deep prayer and study. It was here that he formed a close bond with Prince Saint Imre, the son of our first Hungarian king, Saint Stephen: Gellért became Imre’s tutor and spiritual mentor, thus playing a significant role in the young prince’s Christian spiritual and moral upbringing. Later, he became the first bishop of the Diocese of Csanád and played a major role in consolidating Christianity in Hungary. In 1046, he was martyred during a pagan uprising.

The photos were taken during our visits to Bakonybél, where Brother Barry also visited with the Hungarian Alexians. In addition to the Benedictine-related attractions (the Monostor complex: church, visitor center, guesthouse, and medicinal herb garden), it is also worth visiting the picturesque Borostyán Well with its statue of St. Gellért.