18 January 2012 Veszprem, Hungary [tedNEWS] People in the 21st century experiencing the consequences of the multiple crises (economical, financial, ecological, ethical, relational, etc.) are searching for something more trustworthy.
Adventists in Veszprem, a University town in the West part of Hungary, understand how to build up trust and faith in Jesus and by continuous assessment and work they are willing to respond to some of the physical and spiritual needs of the people. By establishing a Health Club they have attracted those who would like to see improvements in their physical life. Adventists from Veszprem also started a Bible University to respond to the needs of spiritual hunger – introducing people to the basics of the Bible story.
There is no doubt that the Adventist Community has become more and more known in the town. Realising that coping with the results of the crises is one of the greatest challenges; in December 2011 they launched a series on “Life with Confidence”. During this series an audience of 45 visitors and another 50-60 Adventists was formed. Building up trust in the One who is an Expert in handling crises – Jesus Christ – was most essential during the year end presentations. The year concluded with the baptism of four people – a couple in their thirties, and two ladies in their fifties.
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Knowing that many people make New Year resolutions at the beginning of the year, the Adventist community advertised a new type of approach called “Jesus7” which can be interpreted as seven stories of Jesus’ life, or seven days with Jesus. After a field trip to Israel in October 2011, 25 pastors under the leadership of Janos Kovacs-Biro – Evangelism director of the Trans-European Division – put together a compelling series on the life of Jesus. The Jesus7 approach used billboards similar to the Health Expo billboards to attract attention, educate and inform people on the seven sites covered by the series.
In the midst of the crises and the debate on the religious law in Hungary, the Adventist Church believes that what people really need is Jesus. The series led people from the birth of Jesus to His second coming. Topics included the godly face of Jesus (transfiguration), new principles of His kingdom (beatitudes); private talks with the woman from Sychar and Zacchaeus; Prince of Hope who can resurrect those who died; and the story of the Passion. The whole series was recorded and is being televised over the Internet and soon over the Hope Channel Romania – which covers the Central region of Europe.
The attendance of the series grew constantly and although a 200-seat hall was rented, by the end of the series approximately 250 people were attending, some even sitting on the floor. Through a survey sheet they were asked to indicate their commitment and what decisions they have made regarding Jesus Christ. The plan is that this series be multiplied and run in about 50 locations in the country, covering most of the cities and towns in Hungary. The interest through the Internet and TV will be carefully monitored by the Duna Conference. “If the Adventist community is committed to meeting people where they are, responding to their needs, carefully assessing and walking with people on their journey to a close relationship with Jesus, people will gladly follow Him.” – concluded Janos Kovacs-Biro. [tedNEWS]
tedNEWS Staff: Miroslav Pujic, director; Deana Stojkovic, editor
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