Was there ever a chapel that could transform into a venue for a table tennis tournament? Here at Szent XXIII. János-kápolna it’s not a dream but a reality. This unique chapel in Budapest offers more than just spiritual solace.
Szent XXIII. János-kápolna stands as a testament to faith and community. It is located at Zrinyi utca 269. You will find it in the 17th district of Budapest. Rákoskert had been waiting for a Catholic church since 1933. The dream was finally realized with this chapel.
The chapel’s foundation stone was laid on May 1 2016. Snell György auxiliary bishop of Esztergom-Budapest, officiated the event. Major György designed Szent XXIII. János-kápolna to be more than just a place for mass. It was intended as a community hub and even an urn cemetery.
A unique feature is the movable wall in the central area. This allows separation of the sanctuary from the community space. According to Lajos Szőke the parish priest this design aims to attract families and young people. The community space can host family events and youth programs. Even a table tennis competition could be held here.
Opened in October 2017 Szent XXIII. János-kápolna quickly became a focal point. The festive Mass on October 15 was attended by many people. Dunai Mónika a Member of Parliament and Riz Levente the Mayor of the 17th district were present. Many who helped build the chapel also attended. The chapel that can accommodate nearly a hundred people proved too small. Many had to follow the ceremony from the garden or the street.
Cardinal Erdő Péter celebrated the Mass with other priests. Lajos Szőke expressed gratitude to Erdő Péter. He thanked him and the archdiocese for their support in building the chapel. The building was blessed and the altar was consecrated.
Szent XXIII. János-kápolna also has a columbarium. It provides a peaceful resting place for loved ones. The urn cemetery is open from 8 AM to 8 PM. Access is controlled by an entry system ensuring privacy.
The chapel was named in honor of Pope John XXIII. He is remembered as the pope of the council and renewal. Pope John sought renewal not through social theories. He sought it through service to salvation. The chapel stands as a place of conversion prayer and communion with Christ. May it renew the community’s life. May it fill their lives with light.
The selection of Pope John XXIII as the chapel’s patron has a special meaning. When a beatification occurs in an archdiocese it is fitting. It is fitting to dedicate the next church to the new blessed. Since there was already a chapel dedicated to Saint II. János Pál. It was time for Pope John XXIII to be the patron of a community.
Szent XXIII. János-kápolna is more than bricks and mortar. It is a place where community and faith intertwine.