Fundraising Drive to Aid Churches in Transcarpathia
The Hungarian Section of the Order of St John is embarking on a significant charity fundraising campaign to assist one hundred churches in Transcarpathia on the occasion of its centenary. Due to the ongoing Russian-Ukrainian conflict, it has become increasingly challenging for Transcarpathian congregations to maintain electricity and heating in their churches.
The campaign, titled “Let 100 bells ring for peace!”, aims to cover the utility expenses of churches for the next few years, ensuring that no bell remains silent. The impact of the prolonged war on the daily lives of Transcarpathia’s villages and towns has been profound, with a significant exodus of residents, leaving behind mostly elderly and retired individuals. As a result, many churches in the region, which have traditionally relied on donations from congregation members for upkeep, are struggling to provide basic amenities.
According to István Tomcsányi, the Commendatore of the Hungarian Section of the Order of St John, the situation has reached a critical point where the bells of churches are at risk of falling silent in numerous settlements. There are 101 Reformed churches with bells, an equal number of Roman Catholic churches, and 37 Greek Catholic churches in Transcarpathia where masses are conducted in Hungarian. The fundraising initiative has identified 100 Transcarpathian communities in need of support, including both small villages and larger cities like Ungvár (Uzhhorod) and Beregszász (Berehove).
Donations can be made through the organization’s website using a credit card or by transferring funds to the designated bank account of the Hungarian Section of the Order of St John. Donors are encouraged to specify the name of the chosen municipality or simply ‘Transcarpathia’ in the remark section of their transactions. Contributions from individuals who do not designate a specific locality will be allocated to the congregations facing the most urgent needs.
To support this noble cause and ensure the preservation of Transcarpathia’s rich cultural heritage, individuals are urged to contribute generously to the fundraising campaign. Let us all join hands in solidarity to uphold the spirit of peace and unity in the region.
