Debrecen4U
March 27, 2026
10th Anniversary Palm Sunday Stations of the Cross with Prayer, Poetry, and Music
In Debrecen, Christian denominations together with the city community commemorate Palm Sunday and the events of Holy Week in an ecumenical spirit, in a way unique within Hungary. The anniversary event was presented at a press conference held on 27 March 2026 at the Greek Catholic Tourism Visitor Centre.
Mayor László Papp highlighted that in the 21st century the strength of faith, religion, and religious communities remains very much alive in the city. Looking back over the past decade and a half, he noted that these communities have grown stronger. He emphasised that both the municipality and the state support religious organisations, whose long-term survival also contributes to the preservation of the Hungarian nation. As a result, churches in the city have undergone significant development in recent years.
He described Debrecen as a special place where faith, tradition, and community continue to act as a living, organising force. Approaching Easter—the most important celebration of Christianity—large crowds gather each year on Palm Sunday for the city’s Stations of the Cross, which also symbolises cooperation between Christian denominations.
Károly Fekete, Bishop of the Trans-Tisza Reformed Church District, recalled Jesus’ entry into Jerusalem. He explained that the word “Hosanna” originally meant a cry for help—“Save us!”—and only later became an expression of praise. He stressed that Christ is the Prince of Peace and called for Him to enter our lives and bring the inner peace so greatly needed in today’s world.
Zoltán Krakomperger, Vicar General of the Diocese of Debrecen–Nyíregyháza, reminded attendees that praying the Stations of the Cross—whether in churches during Lent, outdoors, or elsewhere—offers believers an opportunity to deepen their understanding of God’s enduring agapé love. He added that the upcoming Palm Sunday event will carry a special ecumenical character, for which gratitude is due.
Miklós Sivadó, parish priest of the Greek Catholic Parish of Debrecen, emphasised that Jesus is present among us even when unseen in daily life, and that participants may encounter Him during the Sunday procession. He drew a parallel between past and present: while Christ’s crucifixion was public, the Resurrection took place in silence—mirroring our own spiritual journey. He encouraged all to attend with open hearts, noting that through Christ’s sacrifice, redemption and the removal of sin, fear, and suffering are offered as the greatest gift.
Szilárd Sajtos, senior Reformed military chaplain of the Protestant Military Chaplaincy Service of the Ministry of Defence, spoke about the enduring message of Dominica Palmarum. He explained that the aim has long been to create a springtime worship occasion where soldiers—whether at home or on duty elsewhere—can connect through music, scripture, and faith with one another, their families, and the city. The central message of the service is encounter: as God approaches us, we too draw closer to one another and to Him.
Edit Bódor, mayoral adviser for church and cross-border relations, explained that the initiative dates back to 2012, when organisers sought to bring church celebrations into the public sphere. By 2017, the idea had evolved into a full city Stations of the Cross involving multiple denominations. Over the past decade, the event has grown into a unique national example of cooperation, combining religious reflection with folk art, dance, and performance. This year, the focus will be on prayer for families.
Due to expected adverse weather conditions, the original format has been adjusted. Folk dance performances will take place outdoors in front of the Great Reformed Church of Debrecen, while the Stations of the Cross itself will be held inside the church. Instead of participants moving between stations, the stations will pass before the audience, who will also receive small devotional booklets.
A wide range of performers are contributing enthusiastically to the event, including many primary and secondary school students. Among those mentioned are Katalin Benedekffy, Kinga Újhelyi, and Hunor Pál from the Csokonai National Theatre, as well as the Lautitia Choir Family, the Dalárda ensemble, the Galilea Praise Team, and nearly 300 students from the St Joseph Secondary School.
Bódor also shared the thoughts of Barnabás Balogh, first president of the Debrecen Charitable Board, reflecting on the past decade of the initiative as a journey of gratitude, faith, and proclamation of the Resurrection.
She added that the Debrecen Charitable Board will distribute blessed willow branches and flower seeds to participants.
Source and photo credit: debrecen.hu
