Hungarian priest evangelising on skateboards stuns the world – photos, videos
The world is marvelling at the Hungarian priest who evangelises on a skateboard – check out some photos and videos in our article about the stunning service of Father Lendvai.
Zoltán Lendvai is no ordinary parish priest: whether in church, at a sports opening ceremony, or even on a skateboard, he passionately spreads the word of God. Sport has been a constant companion since his childhood, and despite being 59 years old and having battled a serious illness, he leads an active life, working full days and even skateboarding. This Hungarian priest has captured global attention, with major international news outlets from Reuters to CNN featuring his remarkable story.
Handstands and tricks by the Hungarian priest
Father Zoltán Lendvai’s passion began at the age of 14, and he remains grateful to the classmate who regularly lent him a skateboard to practise his skills. Skateboarding and sports have followed him throughout his life. In addition to athletics and table tennis, he even performs handstand walking—one of his most popular videos on his YouTube channel features this unique feat, filmed in Vonyarcvashegy at Lake Balaton.
Here is another video showing how he was handstand-walking when he was younger:
In 2010, international media outlets picked up on his distinctive lifestyle, highlighting videos of him skateboarding inside churches. He credits Pope John Paul II as his role model—the most athletic pope, who was a kayaker, swimmer, and professional skier, making sport a vital part of his life, just as it is for the Hungarian priest serving formerly in Lenti, now in Rédics.
New tools for evangelisation
For this Catholic priest, any tool that helps reach young people is invaluable, and his “megaphone” is his skateboard and sporting pursuits. While his colleagues may be puzzled by his stunts, they united with their bishop and parishioners when the coronavirus severely impacted his health, leaving him hovering between life and death for weeks.
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Thanks to his athletic background, he overcame the illness, despite nurses once doubting his chances of recovery. He gives thanks to God and Jesus for his healing and admits he is even more energetic now. Rising at 6 AM, opening the church by 7, and unlike many, he still works the whole day with youthful vigour, celebrating Mass at multiple locations.
Balance is essential
As a result, he has less time for his hobby, skateboarding, but always makes the time. He is still invited to open sports venues and skateboarding blessings, and he enriches church and school faith services with various skate tricks. For example, RTL Híradó showed several special boards from his collection—some so challenging even professionals would struggle to ride them.
In his words, just like in skateboarding and life, maintaining balance is the most important thing.
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