Marian Lajda is a youth pastor and religion teacher in Slovakia.
When did you trust Christ?
I trusted Christ 13 years ago at a confirmation camp. The central theme was Jesus and His story. I always knew that Jesus died for all people, but at the camp, I realised He died for me, and I prayed that I wanted to walk with Him. I became His child on that day, and my life changed dramatically. I believe that that decision was the best thing I ever did.
What have been the defining moments of your Christian walk?
The most recent thing that impacted my life was my visit to the United States, where I interned at Our Saviour’s Lutheran Church in Naperville, Illinois. As an intern, I helped with children’s and youth ministries. It was an excellent experience; I learned much about the mission and God’s plan for this world.
What do you hope to gain from participating?
I see many things in my ministry that could be improved, and I think that ELF can help guide me through many struggles so my ministry will be fruitful. After the last Forum, I applied many lessons from my Network, the morning and evening meetings, and the seminars. I also lead my teams of volunteers more effectively. The Forum has been a blessing to my ministry and me.
What is your ministry?
I am a full-time youth leader in my church. I lead several volunteer teams, and together, we prepare youth meetings for students from age twelve to university students. I am also a religion teacher at our local primary and high schools.
What is your leadership role or what were your past leadership roles?
I have served as a youth leader and teacher in the local schools. My wife and I have also led meetings for people aged 25 to middle-aged.
Why should someone invest in your ministry?
The anticipated number of people who are/will be served through my ministry is about two hundred. I teach religion in eight local primary and high schools. I hope the number of people I serve will rise during this time. The young people are energetic, full of opportunities and important life decisions.
