Bethlen Évkönyv, 1993-1996 (Ligonier)

Halottaink

Rev. SHEPHERD A. MURÁNYI 1908-1993

Rev. Stephen A Murányi was born on September 7, 1908 in Hungary, where his father served as pastor. His father was sent to the United States as a liason person between the two governments. This led to the family’s immigration to this country in 1922. Stephen entered Franklin and Marshall College in Lancester, PA in 1929. He persued his education at Western Theological Seminary and graduated in 1936. He attended Biblical Seminary in New York City and received a Master of Religious Education degree at New York University, where he also studied for his doctorate.

Stephen was an accomplished pianist and organist having studied piano in Budapest and in Philadelphia. He was a member, soloist and accompanist of the Franklin and Marshall College Glee Club. He painted in oil and water colors and won honorable mention in a New York City Art Exhibit.

His pastorates included the historic Sea and Land Presbyterian Church in New York City, Ebenezer Church in Brooklyn. He served churches in Connecticut, Cleveland, Warren, OH, Brownswille, PA and yoked churches in East Claire-East Unity, PA and in Fairview Petrolia, PA. He was a member of the Beaver-Butler Presbytery.

In 1962 he married the former Margaret Eiseman, director of Christian Education at Chautuaqua Institution, NY. In 1972 he retired and moved to Lakeland (FL), where he served as interim pastor and occasional organist at the Magyar Presbyterian Church. He was also an organizing member and leader in the Spirit of Service Fellowship of the First Presbyterian Church.

In the summer months, he and his wife served as Superintendents of the Presbyterian Headquarters in Chautauqua and later as managers of the United Church of Christ Headquarter at the same place.

Stephen was a dedicated and devoted pastor, humble, kind, compassionate and courteous, always ready to help his parishioners, ministering to their spiritual and physical needs.

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