Our Lady of Hungary Church

From humble beginnings to a beacon of faith, Our Lady of Hungary Church has stood as a testament to the resilience and devotion of the Hungarian community in Vancouver. After World War II and the 1956 revolution, many Hungarians found refuge in Canada. A significant number settled in British Columbia. Initially, these Hungarian Catholics lacked a dedicated church. They relied on the support of priests like Father Benjamin Csaki and Father Albert Zsigmond, who traveled to serve their spiritual needs. Our Lady of Hungary Church’s story began in the late 1950s. Hungarian Mass was held at the Holy Family German Church in Vancouver. The community, yearning for their own sacred space, rallied together. In 1962, their dream was realized. The Our Lady of Hungary Church was purchased and blessed. Its name, chosen by Archbishop Duke, honored the rich religious heritage of their homeland. The church building itself wasn’t new. It required extensive repairs and renovations. The dedicated members of the parish poured their time and skills into transforming the space. They created a sanctuary that reflected their faith and cultural identity. Over the years, Our Lady of Hungary Church has been shepherded by various devoted priests. Father Geza Henye, Father Lajos Horanyi, and Father Bela Ugrin each left their mark. Father Ugrin served the longest tenure, leading the congregation for 23 years. The Hungarian Jesuit Fathers played a significant role in the church’s history. They provided spiritual guidance for over three decades. In 1996, Father Bela Pesznyak took the helm, followed by Father Denes Lakatos, who continues to serve the parish. Our Lady of Hungary Church has become more than just a place of worship. It has become a vibrant center for the Hungarian community in Vancouver. It offers a place of connection, cultural preservation, and spiritual nourishment.