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A new generation takes the lead

Hungary Provisional Annual Conference met from April 14-17, 2016, at Budapest-Obuda UMC. Rev. László A. Khaled succeeded Rev. István Csernák as Superintendent of the small but inspiring UMC in Hungary.

Having served as Superintendent of the UMC in Hungary for 20 years, Rev. István Csernák (62) handed over his duties to Rev. László A. Khaled (36). Guests from the Reformed Church, the Lutheran Church, the Roman-Catholic Church, the Baptist Church, and the Salvation Army as well as government officials participated in the celebrations related to this changeover. It was a proof of the important part the small UMC in Hungary is playing in regard to interchurch relationships and social relevance.

Other Guests from Germany, Switzerland, and the USA made visible that the UMC in Hungary is not an isolated organization but a vital part of a worldwide connection.

The UMC in Hungary is very mission-oriented – this became particularly visible in the report of the so-called Mission Council, which coordinates a variety of mission activities: ministries with women, youth, and children, ministries with Roma, international church partnerships, and a colorful media ministry (publication of magazines and books, radio and TV programs). It is amazing to see the great work being done by committed, faithful, and authentic people.

The Forrai Secondary Grammar and Vocational School specializing in Art, which was taken over by the UMC in Hungary a few years ago, also offers some unique mission opportunities. Both the school and the United Methodist ministries (pastoral care, religious education, camps, etc.) grow and develop very well – and the Forrai School is an area where sharing faith with people with very diverse (or no) faith backgrounds can be practiced.

Given the strong commitment to mission, it is no surprise that the focus theme of the 2017 Annual Conference meeting will be «Generation Z».

One new local pastor was commissioned, another young man will start his internship later this year.

Source: Bishop Patrick Streiff, Zurich/Switzerland
Date: April 21, 2016