Széchenyi István University is organizing a series of international conferences for Christian youth in the autumn semester, where current and graduate students can reflect together on issues of common concern and share in a common religious practice from a faith perspective. The theme of the first session was about worry.

Széchenyi István University attaches great importance to the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and supports them with a number of programmes. As part of this, it aims to contribute to the creation of peaceful and inclusive societies, so that its citizens - especially its students - can find cohesive communities and freely practice their religion. This is the aim of the series of Christian mini-conferences organised during the autumn semester.

Sylvia Páliné Nyiri, coordinator of the University's Centre for International Programmes and Alumni’s Scholarship Programme for Christian Young People (SCYP) and organiser of the conference series, stated that this program greatly supports students’ mental health and well-being, the reduction of inequalities, and the realization of sustainable cities and communities, in line with the UN's sustainable development goals.

Participants of the first Christian mini-conference at Széchenyi István University (Photo: Márton Horváth)

Almost fifty young people from Hungary and abroad took part in the first session of the series for current and former students. "The theme of the conference was worry, a particularly important issue for international students, who often face homesickness, loneliness and anxiety due to new surroundings and being away from their families. But the strength of faith and community can help them overcome such difficulties," said the organiser. "The event was attended by international young people participating in the SCYP programme, Stipendium Hungaricum scholarship students from abroad and members of the Hungarian Christian Student Organization, among others, but also by alumni who had already graduated," she added, stressing that the event also promoted the World Mental Health Day on 10 October. 

During the discussion on concern, the Hungarian and international students participated in a joint study of the Word, praise and singing, and the evening ended with a charity reception. The students were reassured that the Christian community supported by the university will help them to overcome everyday challenges.

The students concluded the intimate gathering by singing prayers together and enjoying a warm welcome (Photo: Márton Horváth)

SCYP scholarship holder Matthew Boota came to Győr from Pakistan and is currently pursuing a PhD in Transport Sciences after completing his Master's degree in Supply Chain Management. "This event was one of the most profound Christian experiences of my life. I felt closer to God thanks to the wonderful biblical messages and the inspiring worship. Although I have visited many churches, I have never felt the level of spiritual connection that I experienced with the Hungarian community on this occasion," he said of his experience. 

Zsuzsa Mecséri-McNamara, a graduate of the Social Pedagogue programme, was similarly positive about her experience. "Participating in the conference was very encouraging for me as it gave me the opportunity to live my faith in community. I was able to learn a lot about myself and my relationship with God by going around the theme of worry. It was good to meet people who see the world in a similar way to me," she said.

The next one of the mini-conferences will be held on 29 October and 19 November at the Széchenyi University Management Campus. At these events, participants will explore the themes of forgiveness and mourning.

The programme was well attended, with almost fifty people attending the event at the Management Campus of Széchenyi István University (Photo: Márton Horváth)