Attila Nagy-Szakmary works in telecommunications in Hungary, where he is also a playwright and film maker. He serves in his local church's marriage ministry.
When did you trust Christ?
When I realized I had found my life partner, I started going to church for her sake. Until then I had only attended festive masses. I was deeply moved by the depth and passion of the sermons. After our wedding, I signed up for confirmation preparation — not because my wife pushed me into it, but because I felt an irresistible attraction. I cannot trace my conversion to any single moment, but by the time I made my confirmation of faith at age 25, in 1999, I had no doubts and was able to surrender myself to Jesus with complete joy.
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
Shortly before my confirmation our son was baptized. The day of my confirmation was a significant milestone in my life. My mother-in-law and a friend were confirmed alongside me. In my three consecutive years in the ELF mentoring program, I gained deep insights into the creative process, storytelling, and the vital role of prayer in artistic work. I also received excellent reading recommendations that continue to inspire me.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
I hope to experience another enriching YRM journey that will help me continue to grow both artistically and spiritually, deepen my creative practice, and connect with a supportive community of like-minded Christian artists.
What is your ministry?
I serve with my wife in our church’s marriage ministry. My professional career is in telecommunications. I am also a playwright, currently collaborating with two fringe theatre companies. While most of my dramas are not explicitly Christian, my faith is reflected in how I tell stories.
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
As a playwright, three of my one-act plays became finalists in drama competitions in the 2022-2023 season. One of these was later expanded into a full-length production. That same year, I received a scholarship from the Déryné Program to develop a new drama. Earlier this year, I co-wrote and co-produced a short film exploring the topic of loneliness in old age.
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
I have had the privilege of participating in several mentoring sessions during ELF. Those moments remain among the most valuable hours of my life, opening a new world to me.
