Bishop Jozef Gaganec (1793–1875) – a leading figure of the religious, national and cultural life of Greek Catholics and Rusins in the mid-19th century in present-day Slovakia

Abstract

The second bishop of Prešov, Jozef Gaganec is one of the greatest figures in the history of the Greek Catholic Eparchy of Prešov. During his tenure (1843–1875), Bishop Gaganec successfully continued the work of his predecessor, Bishop Tarkovič. He took upon himself a task of firmly establishing the eparchy and securing its future development and prosperity in the mid-19th century. He ensured its organizational stability, financial provision, and pastoral unity. Bishop Gaganec governed his eparchy in very uncertain and complicated times (revolution of 1848–1849, poor harvests, famines, emigration, etc.) that significantly affected his episcopacy. He made every effort to alleviate the social impacts that this period brought upon both the clergy and regular folks. Bishop Gaganec got involved in ecclesiastical and religious reforms, for instance, he introduced a strict liturgical order in the eparchy. He also channelled his effort into improving the religious life of the clergy and congregation. He strongly promoted cultural and publishing activities, which he considered vital for a spiritual life of his flock. Bishop Gaganec participated in almost all cultural activities of Greek Catholics and largely contributed to the establishment of many cultural institutions in the Prešov and Mukachevo eparchies. He also played an important role in the national and political life of Greek Catholic Rusins during and after the revolutionary years of 1848–1849. In appreciation of his many religious, cultural, and national activities, Bishop Gaganec was acknowledged by the Austrian emperor and the Roman Pontiff. He justly deserves the title “the Father of the Prešov Eparchy”.