Meet Krisztián Fenyves, a PhD candidate from Hungary who came to Slovakia for a 10-month research stay through the National Scholarship Programme. This opportunity allowed him to advance his research on the theological concept of Imago Dei and collaborate with esteemed scholars in the field. Read more about his inspiring academic journey and personal experiences in Slovakia.

My name is Krisztián Fenyves. I am PhD Candidate in Patristic Studies (Ancient Christian Literature and History) at Pázmány Péter Catholic University, in Hungary. I held master’s degree (Baccalaureate) and Licentiate in Sacred Theology at the Faculty of Theology, Pázmány Péter Catholic University, master’s degree (pianist) at the Liszt Ferenc Academy of Music, and Licentiate in Judaic Studies and Jewish-Christian Relations at the Cardinal Bea Centre of the Pontifical Gregorian University. I had the possibility for study abroad during my studies: at the Ankara University, and at the University of Vienna; furthermore, I am a member of the Young Curatorium of the European Society for Catholic Theology (ESCT).

The National Scholarship Programme (NSP) of the Slovak Republic provided me with the unique opportunity to conduct research stay (10 months) at Comenius University, Roman Catholic Faculty of Theology of Cyril and Methodius in Bratislava. The research stay, which started in September 2024, has enabled me to advance my academic work in theology and biblical studies, particularly in the exegetical interactions between Church Fathers and Rabbinic literature, which is the topic of my dissertation. The scholarship provided me with the invaluable opportunity to work closely with esteemed scholars in my field, particularly Prof. Jozef Jančovič, whose research and mentorship significantly contributed to my academic development.

The primary objective of my research stay was to further my studies on the theological concept of imago Dei, particularly within patristic and rabbinic traditions. Given my academic background, Bratislava provided an ideal environment for engaging with scholars working on similar themes. My connection with Prof. Jozef Jančovič, whom I met through the European Society for Catholic Theology (ESCT), was instrumental in shaping the direction of my research during this period. Under the mentorship of Prof. Jančovič at the Roman Catholic Faculty of Theology of Cyril and Methodius, I was able to refine my research methodology and explore new perspectives on imago Dei. His extensive work on theological anthropology and biblical exegesis proved to be an invaluable resource. Through our discussions and joint study sessions, I was able to deepen my understanding of the reception of imago Dei in early Christian thought and its intersections with Jewish exegetical traditions. Another experience that brought these traditions to life was in the Old Town centre of Bratislava: St. Martin’s Cathedral and its proximity to the memorial complex on the site of the former Neolog Synagogue, a place of public remembrance (with the inscribed exhortation “remember” in Hebrew (zachor) and Slovak (pamätaj) on a black granite platform) where two layers of history intertwine.

Throughout my stay, I could engage in the following key activities: conducting research at the university library, with access to specialized theological and biblical studies resources; collaborating with faculty members and fellow researchers to discuss ongoing projects and exchange scholarly insights; participating in seminars, lectures, and conferences to gain deeper perspectives on biblical studies; presenting and discussing my preliminary findings at academic meetings, receiving valuable feedback from local scholars. International symposiums, such as “The Prophet in Exile” at the Faculty of Protestant Theology, not only facilitated connections with esteemed international scholars like Prof. Konrad Schmid and deepened my Old Testament studies but also provided an opportunity to meet key Slovak figures who have shaped theology in Slovakia, such as Dr. Ján Lajčiak.

Beyond academic accomplishments, the research stay greatly contributed to my professional and personal development. I expanded my scholarly network, improved my interdisciplinary research skills, and gained firsthand experience of the academic culture in Slovakia: not only in Bratislava, but also in other amazing cities, like Nitra. As a researcher from a neighbouring country, I believed I was familiar with Slovak culture, but fully immersing myself in it was an incredible experience—exploring its gastronomy, breathtaking landscapes, welcoming atmosphere, and more. Furthermore, I had the opportunity to become part of Christian communities in Slovakia and the honour of joining the Svoradov Dormitory and its community. Additionally, the stay enhanced my language skills, as I engaged in academic discussions in English and German.

I would like to express my deepest gratitude to the National Scholarship Programme of the Slovak Republic for funding this research stay. Special thanks to my host institution, Comenius University, and to my academic mentor, Prof. Jozef Jančovič, for their invaluable guidance and support. This experience has significantly enriched my research and will continue to influence my future academic endeavours.

The research stay in Bratislava is a highly rewarding experience, contributing both to my doctoral dissertation and to broader theological research. It is not only academically enriching but also personally fulfilling. It provided me with the chance to build connections with scholars from diverse backgrounds, exchange ideas, and gain new insights that will shape my future research. Furthermore, the experience reinforced my commitment to interdisciplinary dialogue between theological traditions. I look forward to further collaborations with my Slovak colleagues and to applying the insights gained during this stay to my ongoing studies.