Whose who?

Rev. Ildiko Haraszti

Hello! I’m a proud mother of five and originally from Hungary - a country where history never quite took a nap. I’m of that perfectly ripe age to remember the Iron Curtain and all the seismic shifts Eastern Europe went through (and trust me, there were quite a few!). I grew up immersed in a very radical form of Christianity, which gave me a strong sense of faith - though it took a bit of a journey (and a plane ticket) to find where I truly belonged. That journey led me to the UK, where I began working as a care worker. It was there, in the most ordinary of settings, that I met an extraordinary lady who introduced me to Methodism - and introduced Methodism to me. It was like discovering a spiritual home I had been searching for all along.

Being accepted for presbyteral ministry has been one of the greatest honours of my life. I love preaching (maybe a little too much at times!), and I find the sacraments - especially Holy Communion - to be the most beautiful and powerful means of grace. Visiting people in their homes, particularly those who can’t join us in church, is a ministry close to my heart.

I’m very mission-minded - full of ideas and always excited to hear yours. I believe the Church isn’t meant to stay within four walls, and I’m keen to explore how we can carry the Body of Christ into the community with energy, creativity, and kindness. Music is another great love of mine - I hope to sing, harmonize, or even hum off-key if it brings joy to our worship. I’m a big fan of teamwork and could probably hold a world record in brainstorming sessions if such a thing existed.

Outside of church, I have dogs (they’re theologians in their own way), I enjoy walking, water sports, picnicking - and who knows, maybe these can be woven into something more mission-shaped too. Most of all, I’m deeply interested in you - the people of the four churches - and in everything you feel called to share, create, and dream about together.

I can’t wait to get to know you better.