Inclusivity and the Church: A Call for Change in Slovakia
May 18, 2023 — JORDY NIJENHUIS
Slovakia, a country known for its conservative values, finds itself grappling with the recognition and acceptance of minority groups. In the midst of this social landscape, Martin Kováč, a devoted priest at the Old Catholic Church, emerges as a voice of compassion and progress. He sheds light on the challenges his church faces in its pursuit of inclusivity, painting a picture of the arduous journey that lies ahead.
Martin reveals the daunting requirements set by the Slovakian government for church recognition. Unlike neighbouring countries such as Poland and the Czech Republic, which have lower thresholds, Slovakia sets an unusually high bar. Motivated by the unsettling rise of Islamophobia and nationalism, restrictive legislation poses a barrier for minority religious communities, including the Old Catholic Church, to be recognised as a religious entity. The Old Catholic Church faces the same difficulties as the Muslim community in Slovakia. Despite an estimated 5,000 Muslims residing in the country, religious recognition is still made impossible.
Despite functioning as an inclusive congregation, the Old Catholic Church faces legal limitations in Slovakia. They currently operate as a civic association and NGO because official recognition as a church eludes them. The consequences of this lack of recognition are tangible, as they are unable to perform civil marriages and are excluded from significant state events.
“The jarring disconnect between this gospel message and the exclusionary practices entrenched in Slovakian society weighs heavily on Martin’s heart.”
As a devoted Christian and priest, Martin raises concerns about the lack of inclusivity within Slovakia's Christian majority. He reflects on the teachings of Jesus Christ, emphasising the fundamental importance of embracing and uplifting the marginalised and "other." The jarring disconnect between this gospel message and the exclusionary practices entrenched in Slovakian society weighs heavily on Martin's heart. He embarks on a personal mission to redefine Christianity in Slovakia, championing openness, acceptance, and love for all.
The recent hate crime that unfolded in Bratislava, where two men were tragically killed outside a gay bar, struck a deep chord within Martin and his inclusive Christian community. While Martin's church swiftly issued a statement of support for the LGBTQ+ community, the response from other religious institutions was less compassionate, with some even questioning the victims' worthiness.
The lack of inclusivity in Slovakia extends far beyond the LGBTQ+ community, highlighted by significant obstacles faced by all minority groups in decades of polling data. Slovakia's homogeneous nature, coupled with prevailing social and economic inequalities, perpetuates xenophobia that affects Roma people, refugees, and individuals with disabilities.
Amidst the daunting challenges, Martin remains resolute in his belief that incidents like the hate crime in Bratislava can serve as a catalyst for change. He envisions these tragic events as opportunities to spark conversations, raise awareness, and ultimately transform society. Education is needed for this transformation.
“By challenging stereotypes and prejudices from an early age, future generations can grow up with a more inclusive mindset, unburdened by the biases of the past.”
He advocates for comprehensive sex education in schools that goes beyond the basics, promoting understanding, respect, and empathy towards the LGBTQ+ community. By challenging stereotypes and prejudices from an early age, future generations can grow up with a more inclusive mindset, unburdened by the biases of the past.
Recognising the critical role of political leadership, Martin calls upon politicians to take a definitive stance and support inclusive values. He underscores the importance of politicians utilising their platforms to condemn hate speech, promote tolerance, and advocate for legislative changes that safeguard the rights of all citizens. Martin acknowledges that political will is instrumental in creating a more inclusive Slovakia, and he remains hopeful that influential leaders will champion the cause.
Watch our full conversation below: