Today, we welcome a special guest in the studio who will share a pivotal moment in his life—his renewal and the mission he now represents. Zoltán Papp is one of the executive elders of the Hungarian Gypsy Missions International. Before beginning his ministry, he struggled with deep-seated prejudices. As he openly admits, he once harbored resentment toward the Roma community. In this conversation, we will explore why.
You come from a Catholic family. How did this influence your childhood and your relationship with faith?
Growing up, attending church every Sunday was a natural part of our family life. My mother and grandmother had particularly strong faith, while the male members of my family were less devout. At the time, my own faith was not deep, but church services were simply part of my routine. Sunday mornings were spent at church, and in the afternoons, I would join my father at the cinema, where he worked as a projectionist. I often watched movies from the projection booth, which became a cherished childhood memory.
You had a special experience in the Catholic Church. Could you tell us about it?
As a child, my mother insisted that I go to confession before school. One day, I felt the weight of my sins more deeply than ever before and decided to confess with complete honesty. The priest was surprised, as I had never opened up so much. After reciting the prescribed prayers before the statue of the Sorrowful Virgin Mary, I still didn’t feel relief. So, I began praying in my own words, determined not to rise until I experienced a real change. At the time, I didn’t fully understand what was happening, but looking back, I now see it as a defining spiritual experience.
What happened when you started praying in your own words?
I simply said, “God, if You exist, please take these burdens away from me.” At that moment, everything changed—the weight of my sins lifted, and I was filled with deep joy and peace. I didn’t understand why I felt so happy; I only knew that something within me had been released. Today, I recognize that this was the moment I experienced true forgiveness.
Why did you choose winemaking as your profession?
Our family owned about two hectares of vineyards, which we cultivated together. Every weekend of my childhood was spent working in the vineyard, and my parents saved the income from the harvest to buy a home for my brother and me. I loved the work, especially the harvest season. We also had a small cellar where we produced 10–15 hectoliters of wine annually for the family, so I learned the basics of winemaking early on. When the time came to choose a career, my mother suggested winemaking, calling it a beautiful profession. I agreed without hesitation.
Where did you work after obtaining your winemaking qualification?
After completing a three-year vocational training program, I joined the largest winery in Eger. It was a massive operation, producing millions of hectoliters of wine. I worked there for ten years and thoroughly enjoyed it. One of my most important tasks was blending Egri Bikavér, ensuring the perfect balance of wines. I played a role in producing millions of bottles of Bikavér—a huge responsibility but also an exciting job.
Is it true that a colleague spoke to you about God, and this touched you deeply?
Yes, that’s exactly what happened. A colleague from my village, a devoted Christian, often shared how God had transformed his life. We frequently discussed faith at work, and he always carried a small pocket Bible, sharing verses with me. These conversations deeply moved me, and I felt the same peace and joy I had experienced as a child when God forgave my sins. That was the moment I realized this path was truly important for me.
How did your faith journey develop from there?
My colleague invited me to a congregation, but at first, I hesitated because it was unfamiliar to me as a Catholic. I was always wary of the unknown. However, over time, I decided to give it a chance and attended. The congregation was in Verpelét, and it was a Roma church.
How did you feel as a young man in a Roma congregation?
At first, I felt like an outsider since I was surrounded mainly by Roma people. I had my own prejudices. However, God’s presence was so powerful that I stopped focusing on the people around me and focused solely on Him. Over time, my preconceived notions faded away. God taught me that there are no distinctions between people and that He died for everyone, regardless of ethnicity. As He worked in my heart, my biases disappeared.
Soon after, God gave you a life partner. How did that happen?
At first, I didn’t even want a partner—I felt content and fulfilled in God’s presence. I even considered a life of celibacy. But one morning, I woke up with an unshakable feeling that I needed a partner. So, I prayed for God’s guidance.
Not long after, I had a vision of myself walking hand in hand with a girl from the congregation. I felt we belonged together, but she was Roma, and I struggled to accept that. She didn’t match my worldly expectations, so I initially dismissed the vision as a temptation. However, God continued to work in my heart, and over time, I saw beyond superficial ideals to what truly mattered.
How has your marriage developed over the years?
Our marriage has unfolded according to God’s plan. I received three visions confirming she was meant to be my wife. I resisted the first two, but the third made it undeniably clear.
When I finally approached Dia and told her what God had shown me, she simply replied, “Yes, I’ve known for two years because God told me back then.” She had waited for me to initiate, respecting the biblical principle that the man should take the first step.
Our marriage has been a wonderful journey. We now have three children, and by God’s grace, our relationship continues to grow.
Was it immediately clear that you would serve young people?
Not at first. I started by projecting worship lyrics during services. However, I soon faced trials that tested my faith. During one particularly difficult period, I prayed for clarity, and God reassured me that I was called to serve young people—especially Roma youth, who often struggle with low self-esteem. Through Bible study, conversations, and prayer, I helped them understand their worth in God’s eyes. The impact was profound—many pursued careers, completed high school, and even earned degrees.
Do Roma youth face discrimination simply because they are Roma?
It’s a complex issue. They are not necessarily mistreated just because of their ethnicity, but cultural differences, behavior, and temperament can make them seem unfamiliar to others. The education system also doesn’t always provide the support they need for healthy development. They require extra care and guidance, which, unfortunately, is not always available.
Now, at 48–49 years old, how satisfied are you with your life? Do you feel you are in the right place?
I am completely satisfied. I regret nothing except my sins. God has been so present in my life that I have truly enjoyed every moment. I feel that my life is successful—I am happy and fulfilled.
My life is about this: to see the invisible, hear the inaudible, and do the impossible.
That is a beautiful closing statement. Thank you for accepting our invitation, and may God bless your ministry and life.
