"was beatified in Budapest yesterday. He was a Salesian layman and a model of service to youth in the oratory and in his profession as a teacher. When the communist regime closed all Catholic institutions, he courageously faced persecution and was killed at the age of 39"

Pope Francis

Beatification of Stephen Sándor is a moral and spiritual compensation for the Church, the Hungarian state and from the perspective of the Hungarian youth there is a great need for such a patron who is capable of generous sacrifice, and a role model who teaches commitment without compromises by conscious witness to his faith.” PIERLUIGI CAMERONI SDBSalesian Postulator General

God has done great things for His Church by calling Stephen Sándor to take part in the childhood of God, baptism, holiness and in his salesian religious vows to the extension of loyal martyrdom. Hence we are glad indeed.”PASCUAL CHÁVEZ SDBRector Major

If persecution creates divisions among people, it is the martyrs who build bridges with sacrifice, brotherliness, forgiveness and acceptance. Blessed Stephen Sándor was steadfast in his faith. He chose to die rather than fleeing to another country or refusing to reveal his Salesian vocation.” ANGELO AMATO SDBSalesian Cardinal