A new chaplain, Domonkos Riesz, has joined the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish. We spoke with Father Doma before the start of the school year so he could briefly introduce himself to the Reménység family.

When and from where did you come to Kispest?

On August 1, I was transferred from the St. Gellért Parish in Kelenföld to the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Kispest. I arrived after a brief detour, since on July 31, after leaving the Kelenföld parish, I first went to catch a bus that took us to Medjugorje. I was there until August 7 with a group of young people from Kispest at the youth gathering, Mladifest.

What is the story of your conversion? Were you raised in a religious family, or did you discover your faith independently of your family?

I grew up in a religious family, but my faith truly became my own at the beginning of high school. I attended parish gatherings at the Városmajor Parish, and it was during a youth retreat that I first experienced how God turns toward me with such great care and love. Even before that, I believed that He was loving and good, but after that, I no longer believed all this about Him—I believed in Him. And since then, I’ve experienced many times that when I trust in Him, I’m never disappointed. Even if things don’t always turn out the way I’d like, looking back, everything makes sense. So when He called me to become a priest, after some thought, I said yes with great joy, and ever since then I’ve thought of my vocation with great joy and gratitude.

What will your responsibilities be at the school? Who can come to you for help?

At the school, I’ll be teaching religion—it’s still being determined which class or classes I’ll be teaching. In addition, we’ll meet during Monday morning devotions, at school Masses, on days of spiritual retreat, and at other events. On Mondays and Thursdays during the second break, there will continue to be a short period of adoration and the Rosary in the gym—I warmly welcome everyone there as well!

Basically, I’d like to be as involved as possible in school life, as opportunities allow. And of course, everyone is welcome to join parish life and our communities! Whether you’re a family, an altar server, or a First Communion candidate! I look forward to meeting and getting to know both the teachers and the children. Anyone is welcome to contact me with confidence, either in person or via email (katekumen.kispest@gmail.com).

Thank you very much. We wish God’s blessing on Father Doma’s ministry; please feel free to contact him!