Hungary has a long heritage of being a Christian nation, but today that heritage is cultural and social, rather than living and practical. Less than 3 percent of the population are practicing evangelical Christians. The Free Methodist Church in Győr stands as a beacon of hope in the community. The small fellowship is made up of many young people and a few families. It was begun in 1999 through the work of the Coleman family.
Gerry McNamara has served as the pastor of the Győr fellowship since early 2002. He is originally from the Republic of Ireland, but his wife, Kati, is Hungarian. Gerry and Kati met when they were both living in London. After they were married they lived for a time in Ireland, but then decided to move their family to Hungary, where they have permanently settled. Gerry’s professional background is in psychiatric nursing (and weight-lifting!), but the Lord had other plans. Gerry responded to God’s call into full-time ministry and is one of the first Free Methodist ministerial candidates in continental Europe.
In addition to his pastoral work, Gerry has had the opportunity to teach English to NATO officers stationed in the area. This has provided him with another excellent opportunity to bear witness to God’s goodness, love, and grace. Kati is working on completing an undergraduate degree in English and communications. Being a full-time student as well as being a full-time mom and full-time pastor’s wife presents her with many challenges. Csilla, their oldest daughter, is in elementary school while Zsuzsa and Katica are in pre-school. The girls are full of energy and vitality. There is never a dull moment at the McNamara house! While neither Gerry or Kati came from Christian families, it is a real blessing to see how they have dedicated themselves to the Lord’s service and how they have pledged to raise their own family in a way that honors the Lord.
The McNamaras have committed themselves to the Lord’s work in Győr. Even though the fellowship is small and without a lot of financial resources, they are trusting the Lord for all their needs. Opportunities exist to partner with the McNamara family and with the ministry of the Győr Free Methodist – in prayer, with encouragement, with resources, with financial support. Please contact us directly for more information. If you would like to contribute to their on-going support needs, please send your tax-deductible contribution to:
Free Methodist World Missions
P.O. Box 535002
Indianapolis, IN 46253-5002
Attn: Project 30-736-210
Hungary – McNamara Support
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