Budapest, Hungary –
In a heartfelt Facebook post, Tristan Azbej, Hungary’s Secretary of State responsible for assisting persecuted Christians and implementing the Hungary Helps program, paid tribute to the steadfast faith of Christians who have suffered martyrdom for their beliefs.
Azbej’s post opens with the exclamation, “My Lord Jesus Christ!”—recounting the final words of Coptic Christians who were brutally murdered a decade ago. He recalled the tragic events of February 12, 2015, when ISIS executed 21 men in Libya for refusing to renounce their faith. As the men knelt in the sand, they cried out for Christ’s help, embracing martyrdom rather than compromising their beliefs.
A particularly moving element of the post was the story of the 21st victim, who was not originally a member of the Christian community. Despite having the opportunity to escape, he boldly declared, “Their God is my God too!” before joining his fellow martyrs in a final act of faith. Azbej described this moment as being “baptized with his own blood,” a powerful testament to his transformation and commitment, ultimately elevating him to the status of a saint of Jesus Christ.
“We remember them on February 15,” Azbej wrote, emphasizing that Hungary will never forget the sacrifice of those who have given their lives in defense of their faith. He reiterated Hungary’s commitment to supporting persecuted Christians through the Hungary Helps program, underscoring the nation’s resolve to provide hope and assistance to those in need.
Concluding his tribute, Azbej invoked the words of Matthew 5:10:
“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” He urged his audience to remember and pray for all who suffer persecution for their beliefs, marking the post as both a remembrance and a call to continued support for religious freedom.
This solemn message from Azbej not only commemorates the martyrs but also reinforces Hungary’s enduring dedication to aiding persecuted Christian communities around the world.