Bethlen Naptár, 1951 (Ligonier)

To our second generation. Superindent's semi-annual report of the activities and life in the Bethlen Home

BETHLEN NAPTÁR

207

The panel discussion, dealing with the topic: “Guiding young people in boy and girl relations”, was led by Gustave Molnár, theological student from Lancaster, Pa. Six young people took part in this panel. It was interesting to hear their exchange of ideas relating to young people’s work in the local church. They felt that too often they are misunderstood. The consistory is not aware of their existence. Too often they have to be silent. They are not given a chance to be heard. They asked each other, “Don’t we have the church at heart?” “Of course we do”, came the ringing reply. “How can we carry on after our parents are gone, if we are not given a chance to share the responsibilities?” The young people felt that they should have a representative from their society who would have the right to attend consistory meetings and express the wish of the young people and at the same time convey the wishes of the consistory to their group.

After the panel discussion came the address by Rev. László Kecskemethy, pastor of the Woodbridge Hungarian Reformed Church. His theme was: “Youth in the Church.” In a very interesting way he dealth with two very important subjects, namely: “what does the church expect of the youth” and “what does the youth expect of the church.” The church (or the congregation) has passed through the period where its primary aim was to get financial assistance. from the young people. Today, it is no longer — how much can you give? But rather — how can we help you? The church feels very keenly that its future usefulness depends on the young people; hence, cooperative work is imperative. We must become co-workers, young and old, with Christ. We need the experience, the foresight of the old; the vision and enthusiasm of the young. In dealing with the second important issue, “What does the youth expect of the church?” — three important factors were stressed. First, let the young people know that they are wanted. They are not mind-readers. Don’t make them feel that they are tolerated or that they are a nuisance. Encourage them in all their endeavors. Make them feel that thev are precious. Second, let the young people know that we trust them. It makes them feel good to know that we have confidence in them. Third, let them know that we appreciate them.

At the business meeting, it was unanimously decided to hold the next National Youth Fellowship Conference at the Pittsburgh Hungarian Reformed Church. The enthusiasm of the Pittsburgh group gives us every hope for a very successful conference in June of 1951. The following officers were elected: Gustave Molnár, Lancaster Theological Seminary, president;