The Hungary-Romania Annual Conference gathering of The United Methodist Church was held May 7-10 in Szolnok and Budapest, Hungary.
“For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.”
This 2026 motto of The United Methodist Church in Hungary, taken from Jeremiah 29:11, also served as the theme for this year’s gathering of the annual conference and highlighted some of the hopeful spirit that characterizes the church’s presence in Romania and Hungary.
A priority concern for the church is the two Methodist educational institutions in Budapest: the “Schola Europa” and the “Forrai School.”
Two “school pastors” serve as important points of contact for the students and teachers, many of whom would likely not be reached by the church’s “traditional” programs. The decision regarding the potential purchase of a portion of a building and the expansion of the “Schola Europa” has been delegated to the church board; there, the advantages and uncertainties are to be weighed — especially in light of the changed political situation.
In Romania, The United Methodist Church is currently registered as a non-governmental organization. As such, it operates in a dynamic, flexible, innovative and goal-oriented manner. However, it has now also reached the necessary size to attain the status of a religious corporation. This step is scheduled to take place in 2026.
The diverse work in Cluj-Napoca, Romania was also spotlighted, including the successful “More Than Boxing” program, which reaches over 150 adolescents and young adults. The program was awarded a municipal prize in recognition of its efforts in the areas of inclusion and diversity.
The organization’s activities are fundamentally designed to serve society. For example, the monthly women’s meetings for women of diverse backgrounds, offer an outlet for discussing issues related to life and faith. Work with people from Ukraine also continues in this spirit: In addition to Romanian language courses, dance, music and other creative activities are offered.
In Comsesti, Romania, the work with Roma children and youth in particular is bearing fruit. An important aspect of this is educational work, which includes extracurricular support for students and programs for apprentices. The Hungarian-speaking Roma communities in western Romania also are on a promising path of learning and community building. Among other things, there were two women’s gatherings attended by over 100 women.
It is also encouraging to see how much financial responsibility is being taken on in both countries. Nevertheless, The United Methodist Church continues to rely on financial and personnel support. During the gathering, heartfelt thanks were expressed for the support and prayers.
As part of the general reporting, major changes within the Committee for Women’s Work were announced. The Theological Committee addressed topics ranging from education to interdenominational cooperation.
During a festive evening, Gabor Szuhanszky was honored upon his retirement after 50 years of service, particularly for his contributions to the Martha-Maria Senior Home in Budakeszi, Hungary. Additionally, thanks were expressed to Laszlo Khaled for his 10 years of service as superintendent. Musicians from the Roma community in Alsozsolca provided the musical accompaniment for the joyful celebration.
During the closing Sunday service in Budapest, Zoltan Kovacs was blessed for his service as the new superintendent of The United Methodist Church in Hungary, and many words of greeting from representatives of other denominations underscored the high regard in which the church in Hungary is held far beyond the boundaries of its congregations and ministries.
— Regula Stotz, Basel; edited by Urs Schweizer, Zürich