Magyar Egyház, 1956 (35. évfolyam, 1-11. szám)
1956-11-01 / 11. szám
14 MAGYAR EGYHÁZ YOUTH TO YOUTH An Open Leter To Ernest C. Nemeth As a member of the Bethlen Youth Federation for the past four years, and certainly concerned about it’s functions, I was provoked when I read your article. I may not be the only member answering your open letter but I hope that my opinion is shared with the others’. During the past four years, I don’t believe I have ever had the pleasure of reading your name as one of many on the roster of delegates attending the conferences. This September, I presume, was the only year I ever did have that pleasure. You could not have reached such a conclusion in two or three hours, when we have discussed these subjects patiently for two and three years. Perhaps you have the capability of leadership, but then do not hesitate to exercise the rare trait but become an active member in the organization. As I recall you were not an active participant in the open discussion of these subjects of the conferene at which time the opportunity prevailed; however, if these thoughts are your original findings you my friend, in a way, as the colloquial expression states “stuck your neck out”. We at the time have youth groups within our churches whose job it is to stir up an incentive for an active youth movement. It is impossible for obvious reasons to expect the Executive Committee to gather at an opportune time in order to visit some twenty churches and activate a youth movement. It is your job and mine to fulfill such a duty in our respective churches. In the latter part of the second paragraph you mention criticism. There are two types — destructive and constructive. We never criticized our ministers for this or that — we helped them. Our denomination with the help of other churches conducts a radio program every Sunday afternoon. This program is very successful in carrying our Lord’s message to the sick and shut-in. As far as conducting radio broadcasts to the “Land of our Origin”, you have an idea that can be realized in the future; but, why didn’t you get up and mention it at the conference where the help and viewpoints of the other young people could have been received. Undoubtedly, at this time, your suggestion could have been in full swing. As you recall, the topic of financially assisting young men through the ministry was brought up at this past conference and more deliberation on the matter is in order. The topic was not relinquished. You were very correct in stating “You must get after what you want and don’t wait for it to be handed to you on a silver platter”. Consequently, did you want your membership in the Bethlen Youth Federation to be handed to you on a silver platter? No! You cannot accomplish your ideals by remaining in Bethlehem Pa. You must travel miles with us; confer with us; and worship our Almighty with us together with our ministers for initiative, enlightenment and better understanding. FLORENCE E. TOTH Perth Amboy, New Jersey
