Fraternity-Testvériség, 2003 (81. évfolyam, 1-4. szám)
2003-01-01 / 1. szám
FRATERNITY Page 3 From the President/CEO’s Desk Why You Should Belong to a Fraternal Benefit Society By the time you read this first 2003 issue of “Fraternitywe will be well into the New Year. But as the saying goes, “Better later than never,” so I would like to take this opportunity to express our best wishes to all members of the HRFA for a very happy, healthy and prosperous New Year. I also want to caution you as you make your wishes for the New Year, to watch out what you wish for, because it may come true. By now, you may be aware of the fact that the beginning of the year is the time for Branch Elections. You should have received information from your branch manager regarding your first annual meeting, and I hope that you will take part in the life and activities of your branch, if you have not already done so. Branch life for the Federation is like the life of your family. It is a place where you can make connections with others who belong to our Fraternal family. It is a place where you can build a lasting family relationship with those who share the same burdens and joys of daily life, and who also share in the benefits of our fraternal society’s vision in providing financial security through the various policies we offer. Many have asked why we refer to ourselves as a “fraternal benefit society.” Let me explain that a Fraternal Benefit Society is a tax-exempt organization, which operates under the branch system for the exclusive benefit of the members, providing payment for life, illness, accident or other benefits. The HRFA is a tax-exempt organization established in 1896 and chartered by the Congress of the United States in 1907. The HRFA, like other fraternal benefit societies, devotes its earnings exclusively to religious, charitable, literary, educational and fraternal purposes. The Federation, throughout the history of the existence of our congregations, has sponsored the Annual Summer Youth Camp, now jointly held between the two largest American Hungarian Reformed Church communities, the Hungarian Reformed Church in America and the Calvin Synod of the United Church of Christ. The Federation also serves as a sponsor for many of the ethnic (mainly Hungarian) social, literary and educational organizations that perpetuate the historical and ethnic traditions of our people. The names of these organizations would be too numerous to mention. So my friends, when you belong to the family of the Federation, you become a part of the life and fabric of the greater Hungarian community. At the beginning of the New Year, when you dream for the future, I hope and pray that you include us and that we can become a part of your life and family. I encourage you to get in touch with us if you have any questions regarding insurance or annuities. Our Home Office Staff is here to assist you. Once again, it is my privilege to serve you. Respectfully, Rev. Stefan M. Torok, President/CEO Easter Blessings to all Members and Friends of the HRFA and the Bethlen Home
