Bethlen Almanac 1998 (Ligonier)
The Hungarian Reformed Federation of America
It seems to have touched the heartstrings of many readers. The spontaneous responses that I have received have been very heartwarming. One person from Painsville, Ohio was so overcome with enthusiasm that she called me and immediately wanted to know how to proceed with her research. Her objective and ultimate goal was to leave a legacy for a family member. In a subsequent letter she wrote, “I believe our Heritage is another gift from God, treasure it”. She has moved forward with her research in a very careful and precise manner, ascertaining the information she was looking for. But, as all genealogists will attest to, there are times when the information comes at the price of very tired eyes - after many hours of scanning microfilm. Young people should be encouraged to value and cherish their Heritage. It can be a bridge to the past. Upon realizing that they are following the traditions of their parents and grandparents, there can be an enormous sense of bonding between the generations. What better way can we honor our forefathers than by passing on this precious information to family members? On the occasion of our Church’s 75th anniversary, Rt. Rev. Basil Rakaczky, our Pastor, researched and published in our Church Bulletin the “Spiritual Statistics of St. Michael’s.” This gem of information, which I am sure took many hours of arduous study, has been invaluable in my fact-finding. A debt of gratitude is also directed to Professor August J. Molnár, President of the American Hungarian Foundation. Although he has a very busy schedule, he has been very obliging when asked questions especially pertaining to Makkosjanosi in Bereg Megye and Nagy Tarkany and Damoc in Zemplén Megye. Thanks go to Viola Wyttenback who has also been very helpful. The branches of our Family Tree are almost in place. With the help of God, I will be able to complete it and this will be the legacy to my family. Mrs. Margaret Pauli, Manager Branch 501 84 Center Street,Metuchen, N. J. 08840 Telelphone: 732-549-4898, E-mail: mmpaull@castle.net. 20
