Endre Kiss is the pastor of a church in Hungary.
When did you trust Christ?
I grew up as a preacher's kid, but I was not interested in God, or especially religion, which I found boring. But after my confirmation (at age 14), a group of seminary students started a youth group that was crucial in bringing me closer to God. I made a decision 2-3 times at summer camps, but it was never permanent. It wasn't until I was 16 and had been through a break-up that I felt God's love and acceptance after a youth group meeting while reading Matthew 28:18. I felt at that moment that God loves me (even if others don't), and a real relationship with God started. I have been a follower of Jesus ever since, with ups and downs, but I am ultimately growing in grace, appreciating the Gospel, and seeking to live for God's glory.
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
My youth leaders were very earnest Christians, and I learned a lot from them. Although seminary was a challenge to my faith, we got together with other students and had worship nights, prayer meetings, etc. Adrian Plass' books were also very formative in my early years. His humour prevented me from becoming a modern-day pharisee. I have learned a lot from mentors like Adrian, older Christians, coaches, counsellors, etc. I also had a major turning point around five years ago when I went to see a therapist, started to run and work out, eat healthier, and focus more on my day-to-day tasks. Although not exclusively spiritual, this experience delivered me from recurring sins and temptations and helped me walk in the freedom Christ achieved for us. Some men's ministries like XCC and Soulcon were also formative in this period. Now I study mental health, and the curriculum has elements of self-reflection and spirituality that are really helpful and inspiring for me to become a 'man fully alive' (Irenaeus), and thus live to God's glory.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
I heard about the Forum from many friends who participated over the years. Pastors, church planters, and seminary students all spoke highly of their time at the conference. I would like to be refreshed by the Gospel and meet with like-minded people. I think the European Leadership Forum will inspire me to get new ideas and grow as a leader.
What is your ministry?
I have been pastoring an urban congregation for 9 years. During this period, the church grew from 5-10 to 80 people. I enjoy serving here, preaching the Gospel, and taking care of God's people.
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
I founded a youth group with friends in high school, and I led worship (and bands) all my adult life in different congregations. I also took part in a worship renewal movement in our denomination (Sófár), and I was a church planter for 4 years. Building on these efforts, I initiated a church planting network in Budapest that later became the basis for City To City's ministry. Lastly, I have been involved with the localisation of the Bible Project (doing animation and graphic design in the early days, and I am still involved in its foundation).
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
In my pastoral vocation, I am in a season where I have some experience in my ministry, but I still have the strength and potential to grow. I take good care of my mind, body, and soul, and thus, I hope to preach and embody the Gospel for a long time--both in the local church and other areas, like worship and the arts. As someone who is both a musician and a graphic designer (besides being a pastor), I am at an intersection of faith and art. Though I do not refer to myself as an artist, I believe I have a good starting point as a pastor to understand artists. I am determined to grow in my God-given capabilities and learn whatever I can, using all of it for His glory.
