Bethlen Almanac 2000 (Ligonier)
Cikkek - Articles
For social and other events English is the dominant language in most places. Nevertheless, do everything in such a way that the Hungarian language and ideas would feel at home among us. Our publications and reports should contain Hungarian sections as well (using correct grammar will not hurt!); and encourage our members to use their Hungarian in conversing with each other. Finally, the joint requirements contained the need for the establishment of a professional counseling service, and the cultivation of friendship between the two language groups, such as attending joint church programs, working together, or visiting each other. The Hungarian group summarized their needs in seven points. They requested that as we were founded by ethnic American-Hungarians the mission-giving of our church should always be Hungarian oriented, even if we would have no Hungarian-speaking members. This would not be at the expense of local mission projects, but would constantly keep in focus the Hungarian needs. They emphasized the need for Hungarian cultural and patriotic programs, celebrating the holidays, cultivating Hungarian décor, employing a Hungarian pastor, and welcoming and supporting Hungarian guests lecturers, and so on. A special emphasis was placed on our choir’s ecumenical services. Finally, the Hungarian side of our congregation would appreciate if the English side showed more interest and participation in the Hungarian theme programs, even if the programs would necessitate the use of some or all English. The English group’s chief desire was an open church. As we cannot expect considerable growth in the Hungarian-speaking members, our church can survive only if we open our doors and with honest enthusiasm invite our non-Hungarian neighbors to join our church. In the group’s opinion this can be achieved without surrendering our Hungarian characteristics, if those are not “over emphasized”; but cannot be attained if the Hungarian group would show reluctance in welcoming the new members. Needless to say, this issue was most hotly debated between the two groups. The English speakers also expressed their desire for cultural and patriotic programs, in English and for American holidays. They would place more emphasis on local American missions than on sending aid to the old country. The last item was subscribed jointly by the groups in expressing that in spite of any differences, we allow freedom for each other in Christ’s love: anyone can remain as Hungarian or American as one 238
