Peter Kallay at the Lay Leader’s seminar in Bossey, near Geneva. Photo: LWF/ C. Kästner-Meyer
Peter Kallay, Evangelical Lutheran Church in Romania
(LWI) - In a country where Orthodox Christianity is dominant, the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Romania represents a small but vibrant minority. For Peter Kallay, being both Hungarian-speaking and Lutheran means embracing diversity, ecumenism, and service. Balancing his commitment as a lay leader in his church with doctoral studies in informatics economics, Kallay shares what it means to lead, to care for others, and to belong to a global communion of churches.
Tell us about your church and your role
I belong to the Evangelical Lutheran Church of Romania. We have two Lutheran churches—one German-speaking and one Hungarian-speaking—and I am part of the Hungarian-speaking community.
In Romania, most people are Romanian Orthodox, so we are a minority both in terms of nationality and faith. Because of that, our church places great value on identity and belonging. I serve as a presbyterian and financial controller in my congregation, and also at the deanery level. Last year, I was elected to the Synod. Our congregation is small, but perhaps because we are a double minority, we are very open and committed to ecumenism. We welcome everyone, no matter what their background or beliefs.
What are the advantages and challenges of being a lay leader?
One advantage is that I can use my own skills to support my community in practical ways. But balancing everything can be hard. I’m working, and I’m also a PhD student in informatic economics. So sometimes finding enough time to fully engage in church life is a challenge. It’s almost like having a second job, but one I always make time for.
Your church is active in diakonia. Can you tell us more about that?
Yes, we have many elderly members, so we visit them, offer financial support when needed, and often bring sermons to their homes. It’s as much about being present and listening as it is about helping. We also have a strong children’s ministry. Each Sunday, the children have their own time during the service.
It’s as much about being present and listening as it is about helping.
Peter Kallay, Romania
What are you taking home from the Lay Leaders Seminar you recently attended?
It’s been inspiring to meet people from all around the world and hear about the challenges their churches face. I especially appreciated learning about the LWF strategy. It really connects with our priorities in Romania, especially ecumenism and diakonia. It’s empowering.
Romania has a long history of communism, when the church was often marginalized. What was your faith journey like growing up?
I was fortunate. We were believers, and for us it wasn’t a problem, even during communism. I grew up in a Christian family. But I know it wasn’t easy for everyone. Many priests were imprisoned for their faith, and the Lutheran Church in particular faced serious challenges.
When did you personally feel called to get more involved in the church?
My closer commitment to church life began around the age of 18 or 19. That’s when I really started to get involved. I also have Lutheran clergy in my family; my great-grandfather was a Lutheran pastor. I have some German roots as well, though I’ve lost touch with that part of my heritage.
And today, what does it mean for you to be part of the Lutheran World Federation?
Probably the most important thing is knowing you're not alone. Being part of such a small church in such a big world can feel isolated. But with the LWF, you know that wherever you go, in almost every country, there’s someone who can support you—as a fellow person of faith, or as a church. You know who to turn to; you are part of something larger.
