református

Református is the Hungarian term for the Reformed tradition within Protestant Christianity. In Hungary it most often refers to the Hungarian Reformed Church, known in Hungarian as Magyarországi Református Egyház (MRE), and to related Hungarian-speaking Reformed communities in neighboring regions. The Református tradition is part of the broader Reformed family in Europe and shares common Calvinist theological roots with other churches in the network.

Historically, the Reformation took hold in the Kingdom of Hungary during the 16th century, with significant development in Transylvania and western Hungary. The movement gave rise to a distinct Hungarian Reformed identity, centered in key institutions such as the Debrecen Reformed College, which became an important hub of Reformed education and theology. In modern times, the Hungarian Reformed Church operates as a national church with congregations organized under presbyteries and a general synod, emphasizing governance by elders and pastors rather than a bishopric.

Doctrine and worship in Református life are shaped by the Three Forms of Unity—the Heidelberg Catechism, the Belgic Confession, and the Canons of Dort. Common practices include infant baptism and the celebration of the Lord’s Supper, with worship and catechesis forming central elements of church life. The liturgical and theological emphasis typically prioritizes preaching, covenantal theology, and communal discipline within the church.

Organization and institutions: The Református Church is a member of international Reformed bodies, such as the World Communion of Reformed Churches. Beyond worship, it operates schools, charitable organizations, and cultural initiatives. Notable affiliated higher education institutions include Debrecen’s Református Kollégium and Károli Gáspár Református Egyetem in Budapest, which serve as centers for theological education and broader scholarship.

Geographically, Református communities are concentrated in Hungary, with historical and contemporary presence in Transylvania (now part of Romania) and among Hungarian-speaking diasporas in Europe and beyond.