Blessed Basil Hopko

Biography

Blessed Basil Hopko was born on 21 April 1904 in Hrabské, Pre≈°ovsk√Ω kraj, eastern Slovakia. He belonged to a humble family of poor and landless peasants. Tragically, his father passed away when Basil was just one year old, and four years later, his mother Anna Petrenko emigrated to the United States in search of work, leaving young Basil behind. Despite the challenges, Basil received an education in Hungary and graduated with honors in 1923.

Having nurtured aspirations of joining his mother in the United States and pursuing his vocation there, Basil's recurring health problems prevented him from affording the journey. It was during this time of contemplation that he experienced a sudden cure from his ailments, interpreting it as a sign from God regarding his calling. Encouraged by this divine intervention, he made the decision to serve in his native land.

Basil pursued his studies at the Eparchial Seminary in Prjashev, Czechoslovakia and was ordained to the priesthood on 3 February 1929. He initially served as a parish priest in Prague, distinguishing himself through his dedicated mission to the poor, the unemployed, and students. His compassionate outreach and commitment to sharing the love of Christ earned him a reputation as a caring and selfless servant of God.

In addition to his pastoral duties, Basil also taught at the Eparchial Seminary in Prjashev. His scholarly pursuits led to the recognition of his work, and in 1936, he was bestowed with the title of Monsignor. Four years later, in 1940, he obtained his Doctorate in Theology, further deepening his theological knowledge and understanding.

On 11 May 1947, Blessed Basil Hopko was appointed Auxiliary Bishop of Prjashev, Slovakia. However, his tenure as a bishop coincided with a tumultuous period in Slovakia's history. On 28 April 1950, he was arrested as part of the Communist government's crackdown on the Greek Catholic Church. Following his arrest, Basil was subjected to despicable treatment, enduring weeks of starvation and torture. Eventually, he faced a sham trial where he was unjustly accused of "subversive activity" due to his unwavering fidelity to the Roman Catholic Church. In a grave miscarriage of justice, he was sentenced to 15 years of imprisonment.

Throughout his ordeal, Blessed Basil was transferred from one prison to another, enduring continuous physical and emotional abuse. His health steadily declined, both physically and mentally. In 1964, due to the severity of his condition, he was transferred to a guarded aged home. Despite battling severe depression, he found solace in ministering to a group of 120 imprisoned nuns residing there. His presence brought them comfort and spiritual support amid their own sufferings.

Tragically, Blessed Basil Hopko's original eparchy was restored on 13 June 1968. However, a group of activists demanded the appointment of a Slovak bishop to the see, resulting in his removal. This unfortunate episode caused deep divisions within the eparchy, some of which remain unresolved to this day. Regrettably, Father Basil was unable to regain leadership of his flock before his passing.

Blessed Basil Hopko's death on 23 July 1976 was a direct consequence of the hardships he endured during his imprisonment. As one of the countless victims martyred by communism, his commitment to his faith and unwavering dedication to the Church became the epitome of sacrifice and perseverance.

In recognition of his steadfast devotion and the ultimate sacrifice he made for his faith, Pope John Paul II declared Basil Hopko a martyr on 7 July 2003. Later, on 14 September 2003, Pope John Paul II beatified him during a solemn ceremony held in Bratislava, Slovakia. Blessed Basil Hopko's life serves as a shining example of unwavering faith, compassion for the marginalized, and enduring commitment to the Church.