Ján Cuper

Ján Cuper (born January 25, 1923, died June 18, 2013) was a Slovak Roman Catholic priest, theologian, and professor. He was a significant figure in the underground church in Czechoslovakia during the communist regime.

Cuper was ordained a priest in 1947. Following the communist takeover in 1948, he faced persecution for his religious activities. He continued to minister to the faithful in secret, celebrating Mass and providing spiritual guidance despite the risks. This involved considerable personal danger, as the communist authorities actively suppressed religious expression and punished those who defied them.

He was a professor of theology and played a key role in theological education within the clandestine church. Due to restrictions on religious instruction imposed by the communist government, much of this education took place in private settings. He was known for his profound understanding of Scripture and his dedication to preserving and transmitting Catholic doctrine during a period of intense repression.

After the fall of communism in 1989, Cuper was able to publicly resume his ministry. He held various positions within the Slovak Catholic Church and continued to teach and write. His work contributed significantly to the renewal of religious life in Slovakia after decades of communist rule. His legacy is remembered for his courage, faithfulness, and commitment to serving the Church under difficult circumstances.