Bethlen Almanac 2001 (Ligonier)

Tóparti Egyházmegye - Lakeside Classis

COLUMBUS, OHIO

Sports have always been an important component of man’s existence. The Olympic Games were so important in Ancient Greece, that life as usual, and even wars stopped during the games. The Romans built hundreds of large stadiums all over the empire to host the sport of the epoch. It is not surprising at all that sport is also present in the Bible. The apostle Paul must have been a real sports fan, because he uses sport related illustrations in his teaching. (1 Cor.9:24, 26; Tim.4:7; Heb.l2:l).

According to Paul’s testimony the ministry of God’s servants is a “spiritual coaching” for the “faith runners”, for the Christians. Paul didn’t run for the believers; instead he taught the believers how to run in order to become real victors and champions of faith themselves. In agreement with Paul, I believe that this is an essential part of the pastor’s ministry today, too. The pastor, as a spiritual “coach”, teaches, trains and equips the believers to reach the desired change for a Christian life: from a weak and faithless person to become a champion of faith, a church and community builder.

Of course, nobody can reach spectacular and durable results overnight; the results become visible after 4-6 years. But there are signs in the life of a community that predict the results. I am glad to write that the good signs are visible in our church. The church attendance was over 60% in 2001. The number of new church members reached 12% of the total membership. The life of the organizations was dynamic and successful. The Cultural Club had new activities, like the Christian Music Concert, and the Children’s Christmas Feast, which both enjoyed great popularity. The Youth Group had been very active during the last year and this, in particular, gives us hope for future. Thanks to the Organizations and Church leadership for their devotion and work for the benefit of the whole community.

Rev. Levente Molnár

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