“Where there is love, there is also action. This church is not madness—it is, in fact, a response to God’s will,” declared Albert Durkó, President of the Hungarian Gypsy Missions International, at the inauguration of Hungary’s first Pentecostal Roma church in Mezőberény. This milestone marks the fulfillment of a unique dream in a Roma-populated area of the town.
The vision to build the church was received by HGMI in 2018. Action soon followed, and after three years of construction, the official inauguration was celebrated this year. In his address, Attila Sztojka emphasized that the church in Mezőberény reflects a genuine hunger for spiritual life and a yearning for the presence of God.
“Today, the greatest challenge for Christians is whether we dare to seek God openly and uphold the values of the world He created. I believe this new church will help transform the Delhi district of Mezőberény—not merely as a segregated area, but as a place full of life,” said Sztojka, State Secretary for Social Opportunities and Roma Relations at the Ministry of Interior.
Mayor István Siklósi of Mezőberény expressed his hope that the church’s presence in the Roma neighborhood would help foster a shift in mindset, ultimately improving the quality of life for local residents. The project also received support from Finland-based Fida International, whose Deputy International Director praised the initiative for its vision and dedication.
“Too often, the poor are given only what’s cast off and no longer needed. But we believe the Roma are not second-class citizens. Jesus gave His best for them, and that’s why we do the same. We lay down our lives so the Roma may find salvation and encounter Jesus—may this church proclaim that He is King,” Albert Durkó proclaimed in his sermon. He and national presbyters anointed the church’s doors with oil and prayed for God’s blessing on the ministry that will unfold there.
The church will serve not only as a place of worship but also as a vital community hub. Local church leader Gyula Flóra envisions a vibrant future.
“Alongside our faith-based activities, we aim to organize life skills and educational programs to help residents build healthy, sustainable lives for themselves and their families. True transformation begins when human hearts align with God’s heart,” Flóra shared.
Since 1996, Hungarian Gypsy Missions International has extended support to the most vulnerable sectors of society. Their mission remains to continue offering comprehensive, long-term solutions to the challenges these communities face.
