GELLÉRT HILL

Skyline of Budapest from Gillért Hill

On a beautiful Easter Day- April 19, 1987- Russell M. Nelson, at the invitation of representatives of the Hungarian's People Republic, visited Budapest, Hungary.  The Hungarian government had invited representatives of the Church to Hungary in response to favorable publicity which had been received in connection with the dedication of the Freiburg, Germany Temple.  On that day, Elder Nelson and seven other individuals, climbed Gellért Hill to dedicate Hungary to the preaching of the Gospel.  Elder Nelson prayed that the Lord would "hasten the time when the land of Hungary would be opened to the preaching of the Gospel; so that missionaries and members might be able to enter Hungary and freely share the glad Gospel message."  He further prayed that "Events would open the way for the Gospel to be taught to the people of Hungary so that the people of Hungary might receive the light, knowledge and blessings the Gospel brings."  

Three years after Elder Nelson's dedicatory prayer, the Iron Curtain fell and political events occurred which have allowed the Church to receive full recognition by the Hungarian government.  The Hungary Budapest mission was formed in 1990.  There are about 5000 members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints here in Hungary right now. The Church is still young here but growing stronger each year. We feel it is an honor and privilege to be a part of this great work.

Yesterday morning we were able to climb that same hill and enjoy the breath taking view overlooking the Danube river.  Spring blossoms are in full bloom and we are enjoying the fragrance of the fresh trees and flowers.   Spring in Budapest is truly something to behold.

Lookout point about 1/2 way up Gellért Hill

Erzsébet Bridge at the bottom of Gellért Hill