By the Province of Europe-BFMN
After 133 years of continuous presence, the Congregation has withdrawn from its mission in Hungary. On January 20, 2025, the handover of the mission to the Marist Brothers was an emotional moment, filled with sadness, gratitude, and hope for those who dedicated part of their lives to this work of mercy. Six sisters from the Province of BFMN-Europe were present to share their experiences.
A HISTORIC MISSION DEFINED BY FAITHFULNESS AND TENACITY
The Congregation of Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd established its first community in Budapest in 1892, more than 130 years ago. Despite historical challenges, its mission remained steadfast, always focusing on supporting women and young people in need. Even during the communist era, which led to the scattering of the sisters and children for 40 years, the Congregation persevered with remarkable faith and determination.
Sister Magdalena Franciscus, a member of the Congregational Leadership Team in the 1990s, recalled the sisters’ unwavering devotion, their unshakable faith, and their ability to remain, both apostolic and contemplative sisters, even under difficult conditions. She also highlighted a pivotal moment: “I want to speak about the initiative of Father Joseph, who, upon arriving in Rome, appealed to the Congregational Leadership Team of the Congregation. As a result of this visit, sisters were appointed in 1992 to reestablish a community in Budapest.”
Four sisters—Sister Georgette, Sister Regina, Sister Maria, and Sister Carmen—took up the mission, overcoming language barriers and cultural challenges to open a shelter for abused women and children, while also hiring lay staff.
HANDING OVER THE MISSION: AN ACT OF TRUST
In passing the mission on to the Marist Brothers, the Congregation expressed its deep gratitude to those who will continue the work that began over a century ago. As Sister Magdalena stated: “With deep emotion and trust, we entrust you with this precious mission, inspired by our founders, asking you to honor its roots.”
She added that the Congregation would remain spiritually connected, saying, “We stand by your side in heart and prayer.” She also emphasized the crucial role of the lay staff, who have been instrumental in supporting women and children and will continue their vital work.
During the handover ceremony, a significant symbol was presented to the Marist Brothers—a representation of both congregations, accompanied by the Hungarian flag, as a sign of unity and the ongoing mission. The sisters entrusted this new chapter to the prayers of Saint John Eudes, Saint Mary Euphrasia, and Father Champagnat, the spiritual founders of the congregations, seeking their guidance in continuing this mission of compassion and rehabilitation.
Now, the Marist Brothers face the challenge of carrying forward the mission that our sisters have faithfully upheld. Brother Gabriel, Provincial of the Marists, reassured them that: “Your commitment and trust inspire us, and we are determined to honor this legacy by continuing to serve Hungarian society through these homes with the same passion and dedication.”
A LIVING LEGACY: TRANSFORMED LIVES AND A MISSION THAT ENDURES
Sister Victorine, a missionary in Hungary from 2015 to 2024, reflected on the impact of the mission: “For nine years, I worked in our shelters for women with children. At that time, we were 10 sisters.” Leaving Hungary, though painful, was also seen as a natural transition of the work started by the founding sisters.
“It was deeply moving and sad to see that, after 133 years of our Congregation’s presence in this country, we had to leave,” shared Sister Victorine, who embraced this change with faith. “I also give thanks to the Lord for our Hungarian sisters and for us missionary sisters who dedicated our lives to this mission, working with faithfulness and zeal for so many years. I continue to pray for the Marist Brothers.”
Despite the Congregation’s departure, hope remains strong. Sister Zsuzsa, the last sister to serve in Hungary until the very end, shared: “The separation, the handover, and the farewell were painful, but I remain hopeful that the shelters for women facing violence will continue their mission of care and support.”
Sister Gloria, who was also present at the farewell ceremony, described the mixed emotions of the moment: “We were surrounded by sisters, priests, partners-in-mission, friends, employees, and so many others who came to show their solidarity.”
She experienced a mix of nostalgia and gratitude toward God for all that had been accomplished over the years in Hungary.
Although the Congregation is withdrawing, the mission continues. The Marist Brothers and their mission partners are now entrusted with carrying the torch, strengthened by the legacy of the sisters who dedicated their lives to this work.
Sister Lucie concluded: “Our deceased sisters, who are buried in this land, will continue to intercede for this mission, which is so dear to the heart of Jesus, the Good Shepherd.”
The work of mercy, compassion, and rehabilitation for women and children in difficulty lives on through those who continue this mission with hope and faithfulness.
Following the ceremony, several commemorative plaques were blessed.
A heartfelt thank you to Sisters Gloria, Lucie, Magdalena, Victorine, and Zsuzsa for sharing their testimonies.
Article first published in Our Lady of Charity of the Good Shepherd Express, Province of BFMN (Ed. No. 144 / January 2025)