Dedicated to Saint Adalbert, Lágymányosi Szent Adalbert Plébánia stands as a testament to faith. Its history began humbly. Let’s uncover its story together.
In the autumn of 1919 Havlicsek Vince began holding masses. He served the local faithful in the Hengermalom Street school’s gymnasium. This marked the humble start of a vibrant community. In 1921 the Búzakalász Small Chapel Association formed. By 1927 they established a cultural center. It was located at 9 Major Street.
The church community officially organized in 1930. A chaplaincy was established in 1931. It was carved from the territory of the Tabán parish. Full independence arrived in 1934. That is when they gained the right to keep their own records. The temporary chapel moved to a storefront. It was located at 88 Fehérvári Street in 1931.
The cultural center found a new home in 1935. It was together with the chaplain’s residence. The address was 84 Fehérvári Street. That same year the Jerusalem Chapel was built. It served the growing population. It was located on the Jerusalem estate in Galvani Street. World War II halted plans for a grand church. The chaplaincy achieved parish status in 1940.
The communist era brought challenges. In 1950 the cultural center was nationalized. The chaplains were forced to relocate. They moved to an apartment in a residential area. It was at 13 Bölcső Street. Despite these challenges the community persevered.
The chapel’s capacity was slightly increased in 1954. This was done through rearrangement. In 1977 the liturgical space was redesigned. Ferenc Török created the plans. After the fall of communism new hope arose.
In 2008 the parish received land. It was a gift from the local government. The land was at the corner of Etele Street and Peztvál József Street. It spanned approximately 2300 square meters. This marked a turning point for Lágymányosi Szent Adalbert Plébánia.
On April 23, 2013, a milestone was reached. Cardinal Erdő Péter laid the cornerstone. He placed a cross on the site of the future temple. March 13, 2014, saw the celebration. They celebrated the completion of the structure of Boldog Meszlényi Zoltán Church. Cardinal Erdő Péter blessed the building.
October 30, 2014, was a bittersweet day. The community said farewell to their chapel. It was in the converted shop. It had served them for decades. Cardinal Erdő Péter consecrated the bells. They were for the new Boldog Meszlényi Zoltán Church.
A separate bell tower stands near the new church. It houses two older bells. Also it houses a new one. The new bell honors the church’s patron saint. The inscription reads: “Blessed Meszlényi Zoltán, pray for us!”
The Archdiocese of Esztergom-Budapest built the new church. Jahoda and Páricsy Architect’s Office designed it. KIMA Studio oversaw the professional aspects. ALP-INTER MAGASÉPÍTŐ Kft. carried out the construction.
Lágymányosi Szent Adalbert Plébánia stands here. It has risen from humble beginnings. The church embodies the enduring spirit of faith. It offers a place of worship. It provides a space for community. It is a beacon of hope for generations to come.