József Mezei, lieutenant colonel, assistant professor at the Ludovika University of Public Service (LUPS), Department of Civil National Security, Faculty of Law Enforcement, is participating in the El Camino pilgrimage. Uniquely in the history of LUPS, he is representing the university as an ambassador and delivering a letter of invitation from the vice-rector for international affairs, Pier Paolo Pigozzi, to the representatives of universities along the route. The ceremonial send-off took place on September 30 in the John Lukacs Lounge of LUPS.
"This is a special and unique occasion in the life of the Ludovika University of Public Service, as no LUPS educator has ever undertaken the El Camino pilgrimage, following the path of Saint James," declared Pier Paolo Pigozzi, who sees this as a respectable decision and a model to follow. The vice-rector explained that they wish to deliver LUPS's message of peace, friendship, and cooperation to the universities in the three cities crossed by the El Camino route—Burgos, León, and Santiago de Compostela—aiming to build relationships with the researchers, educators, and students there. He emphasized his belief that Christianity lies at the center of Hungarian history and that spirituality is an essential part of leadership training at the university, especially in public administration. He added that this pilgrimage is a sign of spiritual readiness for teaching, imparting moral, ethical, and professional values, as well as fostering fruitful and lasting international relationships.
After József Mezei symbolically received his letter of commission from the international vice-rector, he was blessed by Sándor Jaczkó, a Greek Catholic priest, who affirmed that it is of historical significance for a university professor to undertake such a mission. The 142nd Psalm from the Bible was read as a send-off, after which the priest wished the pilgrim to feel the support of LUPS's helping community and, strengthened by God, proceed on his journey, so that he may return enriched in spirit.
József Mezei shared that he chose the French route, which is about 800 kilometers long, and plans to complete it in 27 days. The honorary university ambassador emphasized that this is his first pilgrimage, and he undertook it because, having turned 50, he felt the need, as a Christian, to reflect on the purpose of his life. As an athlete, he was also drawn to the challenge. He highlighted the importance of the mutual support and assistance among pilgrims, a principle that has played a significant role in his 30-year career as well.
Text: Zsuzsanna Réka Szabó
Photo: Dénes Szilágyi