Fraternity-Testvériség, 1999 (77. évfolyam, 1-4. szám)
1999-12-01 / 4. szám
FRATERNITY Page 5 News From The Bethlen Home “Let There Be Peace on Earth” Advent and Christmas greetings in the name of our Lord to all members and friends of the Hungarian Reformed Federation of America! Since returning from our recent year-long sabbatical in Sárospatak, Hungary, my family and I have been asked now and then to compare the celebration of Christmas here in America with the manner in which Christmas is celebrated in Hungary. Much is the same. There are gift exchanges; stores are open longer hours. December is the busiest month of the year for many merchants there, too. Mikulás (Santa Claus), though, comes on a different schedule. Mikulás visits the homes in Hungary and much of Europe on December 6th instead of Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Although gifts are still exchanged on Christmas Eve and Day, at the center of the Christmas celebrations throughout Europe are Jesus, God and the heavenly host. Most churches have a variety of Advent programs which, just as here, offer worshippers the opportunity to personally prepare for the arrival of Christ. There are Christmas plays and pageants, concerts, decorations, along with special church services and Bible studies. Just as here, in Hungary, Advent and Christmas have an atmosphere and davor of their own, which bring forth the best in people. There, too, people become more loving, considerate, more generous and more forgiving as the evening of Christ’s birth nears. A difference, though, which we found significant, was the pace of events as Christmas approaches. Here it seems easy to become overwhelmed by our Advent and Christmas schedules. In Sárospatak - not a large city, but still a good-sized town - the pace of these days is much more relaxed. We had time to be together as family. We had time to go to church. We had time to visit friends. We had time to experience the spiritual side of Advent and Christmas in a deeper, more fulfilling way. Naturally, holiday related stress is found in Hungary, too. But more prevalent, still, is the peace of Advent and Christmas. Our family appreciated this sense of peace when we were there, and we have tried to allow for that sense of peace to touch us here, too, during the years since our return. The miracles of Christmas occur as we allow God the time in our lives necessary for Him to perform them. It means “letting go” a little, and “letting God” take charge of our Advent and Christmas celebrations. It means visiting the manger and kneeling there, in awe of the Christ Child who brings salvation to this broken world. For in the end, regardless of where we celebrate Christmas, God’s message is the same: “Behold, I give you my Son, so that everyone who believes in Him may not die but have eternal life.” This year, “let there be peace on earth,” and may the Peace of Christ be known by all of our HRFA family and friends. From all of us, from the staff and residents at the Bethlen Home, we wish the members and friends of the HRFA a Blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year. Rev. Imre A. Bertalan, Executive Director of the Bethlen Home Residents of the Home Enjoy the Holiday Season Throughout the month of December, residents enjoyed a variety of entertainment from professional to local community groups that provided us with the gift of song. To kick off the holiday season, many residents enjoyed getting a sleigh ride which took place here on the grounds of the Bethlen Home. For many of our residents, this was the first time they had ever been on a sleigh. Needless to say, the sleigh ride was a hit. Residents also had the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities that would provide Christmas memories and traditions such as tree trimming, cookie decorating, making homemade candy, gift wrapping, etc. The Activity staff’s favorite program is the passing of the Christmas gifts to each resident. Seeing the expression and appreciation upon their faces as they open their gifts from their secret Santa really touches one’s heart. Through the support and generosity of families, staff members, churches, community groups, and friends of the Bethlen Home, all our residents received beautiful Christmas gifts this year. As we approach the new millennium, the residents helped us prepare a time capsule which will be buried on the grounds of the Bethlen Home. Many residents contributed photos, letters, etc. that would express the importance of their heritage. After the holiday season ended, the residents started to help the Activity Department with the preparation of the Snowflake Ball Dinner Dance which will be held the latter part of January. Residents will have the opportunity to dress up in gowns and tuxedoes for the evening. Many of our lady residents will be enjoying the company of local college students who will be acting as escorts for the evening. The crowing of our Snow Queen will also be held. Votes cast by residents, families and staff will determine the winner. Many THANKS to all the people who helped make our holiday season a delightful one. Their hard work, support and donations were very much appreciated. Sherry A. Humherton, Activity Director
