Bethlen Évkönyv, 1990-1991 (Ligonier)

Rev. Louis Medgyesi: Hungarian Reformed Youth Camp - 1989

HUNGARIAN REFORMED YOUTH CAMP - 1989

The annual Youth Camp was held on August 13—19 at the Mennonite Church Center, in the Laurel Mountains of Pennsylvania. There were 71 youth and 28 counselors present. The lower attendance, coupled with a lower average age among the campers, contributed to a peaceful and enjoyable time for all. On the whole, the youth were well-behaved and attentive. The latter was due in no small part to the program topics which dealt with current issues facing them. These were chosen in March at the United Church of Christ of Bridgeport, CT., addressing the question, „Can I make it as a Christian Teenager in the 1990’s?”

On Monday, Rev. Imre A. Bertalan of Allen Park, MI was the main speaker dealing with sex from a Christian point of view, as God’s gift to us. He presented the Biblical perspective, stressing responsibility and appropriate expression within the sanctity of marriage as well as the consequences of unfaithful, inappropriate sexual behaviour. Although it is a sensitive topic, our youth have been exposed to it in school and society, the church cannot shirk its responsibility to present the spiritual aspect of God’s intentions for procreation. On Tuesday, the issue of drug usage was addressed. A special speaker, a retired Navy man, Mr. Jeff Thaxton, was hired for the presentation. His dynamic approach grabbed everyone’s attention. He emphasized self-respect and love toward parents. He reminded all, that our body is God’s temple, lovingly cared for by the parents, which becomes an individual responsibility. As Christians, we live in reality and not in a fantasy world, accountable for our action to God and each other. The use of drugs break both divine and human fellowship and relationships. The youth were asked to exercise self respect and to hug their parents at least 3 times a day. On Wednesday, Rev.&Mrs. William Nyerges of Newburry, OH, presented the practical side of human love as it unfolded during 25 years of their marriage. At the end of their presentation, they renewed their vows in my presence. On Thursday, Rev. Coralyn Medyesy of Wallingford, CT, was the guest speaker. She split the assembly into six groups and had each compile a list relating to human physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual growth development from the cradle to the grave. The lists were in turn formed into prose and poetry which were shared that evening at vespers. On Friday, Rt. Rev. Dr. John

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