On Sunday, 25 February 2024, we witnessed a rare and remarkable event at the Hungarian House: a Vitéz (Knighting) Ceremony, attended by distinguished guests including His Royal Highness Vitéz József Károly, Royal Prince of Hungary and Captain General of The Order of Vitéz; vitéz noble Boronkay Robert, Overseas Chapter Captain; Zsolt Csenger-Zalán, Ambassador of Hungary to Canberra; Consul-General Péter László B. Nagy; and Consul Szeréna Mária Gombár.
With the Holy Crown, the ceremonial sword, the Vitéz flag, and 14 candidates, accompanied by the sound of the tárogató, the ceremony began with a dignified and solemn procession. The NSW Chapter Captain requested permission to commence the ceremony. Once granted, the Hungarian National Anthem, Boldogasszony Anyánk, and the Székely Himnusz were sung together, followed by the oath-taking and the formal induction of the 14 new Vitézek according to protocol.
In addition to the newly inducted knights, three individuals received awards for their outstanding contributions to the Hungarian community.
Speeches were then delivered by the distinguished guests mentioned above.
After assembling for a group photograph, Father Lőrinc Foote blessed the newly inducted Vitézek and offered prayers for us, for all Hungarians scattered around the world, and for Hungary itself.
The ceremony concluded with family and friends congratulating the new Vitézek, followed by a delightful three-course lunch.
The day provided a moving, lifelong, and unforgettable experience for the newly inducted knights, their families, friends, and all attendees alike.
