Tim's Summer Reflections

Ken Hobby and I had a wonderful trip in Szolnok, Hungary and Berlin. On our first Sunday, our second day in Europe, we attended the Szolnok church services where we were able to see a rather large gathering of people. Since the summer camp led by Cloverdale church of Christ and Southwest church of Christ (Jonesboro) was just ending, there were 150 people--100 of which were Hungarian. Normally there are only 20, so this was a very good turn out. Altogether the camp had 184 Hungarian kids, and there were three baptisms.

For the first few days I had to reorient myself to life in Hungary, such as the language, 107 degree days with no air conditioning, and trying to get something done in an official's office only to be told that there was another paper that we were supposed to bring that they didn't mention the first time we met. It's great to be home! :)

I had several meetings with those who help keep the LET going: attorney, county court officials, bankers, the LET’s office manager Judit Farkas, and the LET’s board. I was pleased with how well everything is running. Judit has done a masterful job in helping the LET plan and execute events, dream for the future, and stay within budget.

One important development that happened during our time in Hungary was that I had the chance to meet with the director of the English BBA program (part of the Szolnok College of Business). I met with him to discuss the possibility of a cooperative effort involving the LET, the Szolnok College, and Harding University (as well as EEM) in holding business ethics seminars for the business students in Szolnok. Dr. Bud Hebert from Harding University has been teaching such workshops in the Ukraine for a number of years, and he has expressed an interest in expanding his work to include Hungary. After successful discussions, we now have tentatively arranged for Dr. Hebert to be in Szolnok this fall, teaching business ethics (from a Christian perspective), encouraging the local congregation, and establishing more contacts for the Szolnok Church and the LET Christian Foundation.

Ken Hobby and I taught this year’s summer workshop for the LET. About 20 people were consistently in attendance, and we were pleased with the warm reception from our Hungarian friends. Dr. Hobby’s topic was "Why do bad things happen to good people?,” and my topic was "There is nothing new under the sun: The meaning of life in Ecclesiastes."

In a short period of time we were able to meet with a large number of people. One of the most encouraging aspects of this trip was that we were reminded of the many relationships God has blessed us with in Hungary. Although four years have passed since Anessa and I moved away, the friendships and church relationships that we gained in the country continue to thrive.

The church in Szolnok is a strong body of believers. Michael and Lisa Shuttlesworth have done a great job in continuing to lead and encourage them. Most of the men are involved in leading prayers, leading singing, or preaching. Both men and women have taken greater ownership in the congregation. It is rewarding to see more growth and maturation.

Please keep this work in your prayers. God is with the Hungarians. May we continue to join Him in supporting and encouraging His work in Hungary and in Central Europe!

Tim Westbrook, president