Bethlen Naptár, 1982 (Ligonier)
Egyesült Államok - Kálvin Egyházkerület
1982 121 A UCC AMERIKAI KERÜLETEIBEN BRIDGEPORT, CONN. — Pastor: Rev. Anthony Szilagyi Pastor Emeritus: Rev. Emil Nagy Chief Elder: Mr. John Koi Lay Preachers: Mr. Gyula Egervári and Mr. Elmer Balog It has been a good number of years since our congregation has been represented by a report in the Bethlen Almanac. Yet, our congregation has always been active and strong. Being one of first few Hungarian congregations founded in this country, we have been interested in the advancement of our common Hungarian Heritage all along. This past year saw some changes in our congregation’s life, as well as the continuation of traditional activities. After the retirement of the former pastor, the Rev. Emil Nagy, the present pastor was elected and installed. After some 42 years under the leadership of Rev. Nagy this was quite a change. We trust in God and His leadership so that our congregation will continue to move ahead, and our ministry will continue. Our attendance at both the English and Hungarian services has been very good. Our bi-lingual ministry continues, not only with services in English and Hungarian, but our Hungarian School, under the leadership of Mr. Gyula Egervári, contiues to draw students from the area. The Women’s Guild and the Brotherhood are active in many areas, from noodle making to spsonsoring dances. We are fortunate to have very dedicated leadership in the form of Mrs. Liz Domyan of the Guild, and Mr. Andy Zudla of the Brotherhood. Our financial status is very secure, which is a blessing from God, considering the present economic situation. In the past year 4 infants were baptized, 7 young people were confirmed, with 2 of them attending the summer Youth Camp, and 7 members have passed away. The highlight of the year is always our Hungarian Festival, which this year will celebrate its 30th year. This is one of the oldest, if not the oldest continous Annual Festival in this country. The hundreds of people who attend always find reason to come back. Our congregation, which was founded in 1894, spans the years from our first pastor, Rev. Kallasy, who was a pioneer in the Hungarian work in this country; to the present with its background in the third and fourth generations. With God’s help we will continue to provide our people with a strong Hungarian Reformed background, as well as challenge them with God’s Kingdom through Jesus Christ. "Adjon Isten Hálás Szívet Nekünk!" — Soli Deo Gloria!
