Births on April 2

Iván Persa

Born on April 2, 1861

Iván Persa, Slovenian priest and author (d. 1935)

The Life and Legacy of Iván Persa: A Hungarian Slovene Priest and Writer

Iván Persa, also known by his Slovene name Ivan Perša, was a prominent Hungarian Slovene Roman Catholic priest and an important writer who left his mark during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Born on April 2, 1861, his dedicated life of spiritual service and literary contribution spanned several decades until his passing on September 26, 1935.

Early Life and Ecclesiastical Beginnings

Born into a humble farming family, Iván Persa's roots were firmly planted in the Municipality of Beltinci, specifically in the picturesque village of Ižakovci. His parents, István Persa and Mária Kolár, instilled in him values that would guide his life of service. His path toward the priesthood culminated on July 14, 1885, when he was ordained. This marked the beginning of a long and impactful career dedicated to faith and community within the Hungarian Slovene region.

Pastoral Service and Community Engagement

Following his ordination, Persa embarked on his pastoral journey. From 1885 to 1887, he served as a curate in Grad, a period during which he also played a role in the formation of the Association of Jesus's Heart. His commitment to community and spiritual growth was evident early on. Subsequently, from 1887 to 1894, and then continuing his work from 1894 to 1913, he ministered as a priest in the villages of Alsószölnök and Felsőszölnök, located near Szentgotthárd. In these communities, his dedication extended beyond the pulpit, as he continued to establish and support local associations, fostering a vibrant spiritual life among his parishioners.

A Distinct Literary Contribution: The Prekmurje Dialect

Beyond his priestly duties, Iván Persa was also a notable writer, making a significant contribution to the literary heritage of the Prekmurje region. In 1898, he authored a work focused on the scapular, titled "Od vnouge i velke miloscse i pomoucsi szvétoga skapulera." What makes this piece particularly noteworthy is that it was written in the Prekmurje dialect. This regional dialect, spoken by Slovenes in the Prekmurje region of Slovenia and in neighboring Hungarian areas, was crucial for preserving local linguistic and cultural identity. Persa's decision to write in this dialect underscored its importance and provided accessible spiritual literature to the local populace, ensuring that their faith was articulated in their everyday language.

Later Years and Legacy

By 1913, Iván Persa had moved to Pečarovci, where he served as a priest at St. Sebastian's Church. He continued his dedicated ministry there until his passing in 1935. Throughout his life, Iván Persa remained a steadfast figure, embodying the roles of spiritual leader, community builder, and cultural preservationist through his writing. His work as a Hungarian Slovene Roman Catholic priest and writer continues to be remembered for its spiritual depth and its contribution to the literary and linguistic landscape of the Prekmurje region.

Frequently Asked Questions About Iván Persa

Who was Iván Persa (Ivan Perša)?: Iván Persa, also known as Ivan Perša, was a Hungarian Slovene Roman Catholic priest and writer active from the late 19th to the early 20th century. He is remembered for his pastoral service and his literary work in the Prekmurje dialect.
When and where was he born?: He was born on April 2, 1861, in the village of Ižakovci, within the Municipality of Beltinci, to farmers István Persa and Mária Kolár.
When was he ordained as a priest?: Iván Persa was ordained on July 14, 1885.
What was his significant literary contribution?: His most notable literary work was a book about the scapular, titled "Od vnouge i velke miloscse i pomoucsi szvétoga skapulera," which he wrote in 1898. Its significance lies in its use of the Prekmurje dialect, helping to preserve and promote the local language.
Where did he serve as a priest?: He served as a curate in Grad (1885-1887), a priest in Alsószölnök and Felsőszölnök (1887-1913) near Szentgotthárd, and finally in Pečarovci at St. Sebastian's Church until his death.
When did Iván Persa pass away?: He passed away on September 26, 1935, in Pečarovci, where he had been serving as a priest.

References

Iván Persa

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Events on 1861

19 Jan

Georgia (U.S. state)
American Civil War: Georgia joins South Carolina, Florida, Mississippi, and Alabama in declaring secession from the United States.
21 Jan

Jefferson Davis
American Civil War: Jefferson Davis resigns from the United States Senate.
20 Apr

Robert E. Lee
American Civil War: Robert E. Lee resigns his commission in the United States Army in order to command the forces of the state of Virginia.
8 May

Richmond, Virginia
American Civil War: Richmond, Virginia is named the capital of the Confederate States of America.
6 Sep

Ulysses S. Grant
American Civil War: Forces under Union General Ulysses S. Grant bloodlessly capture Paducah, Kentucky, giving the Union control of the Tennessee River's mouth.