Bethlen Almanac 1997 (Ligonier)
Kálvin Egyházkerület
GARY, IN Pastor. Rev. László Kovács* Chief Elder: Christine Grennes Grace Reformed Church Gary, Indiana Church officers: Christine Grennes, Chief Elder; John Kostyal, Vice-Chief Elder; Marge Gordon, Secretary; Fran Garris, Treasurer; Irene Sheets, Assistant Treasurer; Louis Chickie, Comptroller; Ladies Aid President: Betty Nalborczyk; Fellowship Circle President: Marge Gordon. The work of the Consistory has been enhanced by the effective functioning of small, working committees, whose members fulfilled their assignments admirably. This congregation is blessed with an uncommon group of dedicated people. The core fellowship continues to provide leadership, often in quiet, unassuming ways. There is always plenty of things to do for those who wish to be involved. It is heartwarming to observe that our senior members continue to participate in the vital life of this fellowship well beyond their physical abilities. The hard work of the many dedicated volunteers should be recognized. Things do not ‘just happen’ by themselves. Those who send getwell cards, those who contribute information materials to the Sunday bulletins, those who participate in fundraising activities, those who organize and devote much time to the success of cultural events. Pastoral care has remained an important part of our shared ministry. Yes, this is an aging congregation with members in their advanced years. As one of the members commented during the year: “Reverend, I hope you see that this congregation is a walking hospital.” Perhaps there is a grain of truth in this, because we have an unusually high number of illnesses, many of our members had been hospitalized, and continue to require care at home. Because of caring concern, there had been an increasing demand for hospital and follow-up visits at the home. The two Ladies organizations - the Ladies Aid and Fellowship Circle - again jointly sponsored a very successful retreat in the Fall, which was well attended and received high praise from the participants. There have been changes in the composition of the dedicated Consistory. Mr. James Kovecsi completed his function as Chief Elder, and Christine Grennes was identified to assume that role. The work of the Consistory has been enhanced by the effective functioning of small, working committees, whose members fulfilled their assignments admirably. 104
