Hope in Dark Times

Hope in Dark Times is story that connects wartime Hungary to Duluth through music, art, faith and resilience. It centers on Zoltán Kodály’s powerful Missa Brevis, one of the 20th century’s most significant sacred choral works, composed amid the turmoil of World War II.

The program, held in Our Lady Queen of Peace Chapel at St. Scholastica Monastery, explores the extraordinary connection between Kodály and Sister Constantina Kakonyi, a Hungarian artist who later made her home at St. Scholastica. Audiences will have the opportunity to view a first-edition score of Missa Brevis acquired by CSS, featuring original cover artwork created by Sister Constantina and signed by Kodály himself.

Through a live performance of Missa Brevis, an exhibition of Sister Constantina’s artwork, and historical interpretation, this event brings to life the stories of two Hungarian artists whose work was shaped by war, faith and hope.