Slovak Bishops commemorate 76th anniversary of communist crackdown on religious orders

Monsignor Bernard Bober, President of the Conference of Bishops of Slovakia, issued a statement commemorating the 76th anniversary of ‘Akcia R’ (Action R). This historical event, launched by the communist regime on August 29, 1950, involved the violent removal of thousands of religious sisters from their convents.

The totalitarian regime aimed to destroy monastic life, confiscate church property, and force religious sisters into isolation or forced labor. During the operation, 1,962 sisters were moved into concentration convents, and 137 monastic buildings were occupied. Despite pressure and harsh conditions, the sisters maintained their religious vocations.

Bober emphasized the heroism and unwavering faith of the sisters, describing their testimony as a ‘constant light’ for society and the Church. He called on citizens to defend religious freedom, truth, and human dignity, noting that the preservation of justice requires personal commitment.