Lecture “Great Mystics, Small Mystics, False Mystics” by Professor Emeritus Mihály Szentmártoni Held

On Tuesday, 17 March 2026, a lecture by the distinguished Jesuit, psychologist, and university professor, Prof. Emer. Mihály Szentmártoni, PhD, Dr. h. c., SJ, titled “Great Mystics, Small Mystics, False Mystics – The Wanderings of a Psychologist in the World of Mysteries,” was held in the “Bl. Alojzije Card. Stepinac” Hall.

In his presentation, Prof. Szentmártoni brought the complex topic of mystical experience closer to the audience, emphasizing that it can be understood as an intuitive perception of God’s unconditional love for the human person. Speaking from both theological and psychological perspectives, he outlined the historical development of approaches to mysticism—from periods when mystical experiences were viewed with suspicion and marginalization to the contemporary understanding of mystical experience as a call addressed to all believers.

A special part of the lecture was devoted to distinguishing between “great” and “small” mystics, as well as to the phenomenon of false mysticism. Through examples of saints such as St. Pio of Pietrelcina and St. Mother Teresa, the speaker highlighted the characteristics of authentic mystical experience, while also warning of the dangers of credulity and the emergence of pseudomystical experiences in contemporary society. Using the example of Padre Pio, he emphasized that his mysticism was not based on abstract theories, but also on suffering and a deep union with Christ.

Analyzing the psychological and social dimensions of false mysticism, Prof. Szentmártoni pointed to phenomena such as “actor-mystics,” charismatic leaders, and artificially induced states of consciousness, stressing the need for discernment and a critical approach to such occurrences.

In conclusion, he emphasized that the foundation of Christian mysticism is the knowledge of God’s love for the human person, while psychology can help in personally accepting this truth and integrating it into the life of the believer.