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Stephan László: The architect of the Eisenstadt diocese deserved fame!
Learn more about the Eisenstadt diocese, its history, the first bishop Stefan László and important events since 1960.
Stephan László: The architect of the Eisenstadt diocese deserved fame!
The Diocese of Eisenstadt is celebrating an important stage in its history this year: on November 11, 1960, it was founded by Pope John XXIII. elevated to an independent diocese. This change did not come about by chance, but was the result of many years of hard work under the first bishop of the diocese, DDr. Stefan László. Under his leadership, the diocese experienced significant changes and developed into an important part of the Catholic Church in Austria. courier reports that László was born on February 25, 1913 in Pressburg (Bratislava) and grew up in Trausdorf an der Wulka. After his ordination to the priesthood in 1936, he began to be involved in pastoral care in Burgenland.
After László joined the Apostolic Administration in 1939 as director of the chancellery and head of Caritas, his career quickly took off. In the 1950s he organized relief efforts for refugees during the Hungarian crisis and oversaw numerous reforms that laid the foundations of the diocese. He was appointed Apostolic Administrator in 1954 and two years later was consecrated Titular Bishop of Metellopolis.
Bishop and builder
His tireless commitment led to important initiatives such as the restoration of the St. Martin's Temple in Eisenstadt and the new construction of the boys' seminary in Mattersburg. László also placed a notable focus on education and founded the teacher training college, which led to the “Stiftung Pedagogical Academy Burgenland” in 1957. Wikipedia emphasizes that his achievements are often described as the main pillars of the diocese and that he is fondly remembered as the “architect of the diocese”.
Under his leadership, the House of St. Martin in Eisenstadt came into being, and László played a central role in the preparation of the diocesan synod in 1959, which ultimately led to the founding of the diocese. He also made his voice heard at the Second Vatican Council and took part in several Vatican commissions. Wikipedia adds that the diocese itself was only founded in 1922 and was previously part of Hungary.
Appreciation and legacy
The legacy of DDr. Stefan László is visible not only in the buildings and institutions of the diocese, but also in the hearts of the people he cared for pastorally. He was particularly committed to the Burgenland Croats and Hungarians, whose liturgical and pastoral life he sustainably promoted. A highlight of his term in office was the visit of Pope John Paul II in 1988, who brought the community in Eisenstadt together with his presence. courier notes that László resigned in 1992 after almost four decades at the helm of the diocese and died in 1995. He found his final resting place in the crypt of the cathedral in Eisenstadt.
In memory of László, streets and squares are named after him, and there are awards that honor his work - a lasting connection to the history and future of the Eisenstadt diocese.