Hungary

We had a meeting after church today, a meeting just for members. There were just a handful of topics to cover. One was a big one in the news today here in Hungary. The parliament is passing a law which will redefine what a church is. The result will be that many will no longer receive  a 1% tax benefit. Every citizen can designate where 1% of their tax money goes. If an organization is designated as a "church" in Hungary, then it may receive this money. This money does not make our break financially us as a church, but there are other effects that this law will have on those that will soon be losing their "church" status. They will not be able to borrow money as a body, let's say to build a building. The preachers from such churches will suddenly no longer be welcome to teach in "hittan" (faith lesson) after hours in public schools. (This is not USA.) There are many other famifications that will befall the little congregations. 

I asked in the meeting, "What is the motivator behind this law, is primarily to save money or is it to snuff out the little congregations?" Several shared and the answer I got was that it was not really for financial reasons. The ruling party is lead by a staunch Catholic. His goal it seems clear to say is to rid the country of the pesky little churches. Those that most annoy them are the Hara Krishnas, Jehovah Witnesses, Mormons, and the like. But not far behind are little congregations like ours. 

Our preacher and 34 pastors from other small congregations went to a meeting with THE government official who could do something. All 35 representatives arrived – just the government official did not. He sent an underling – who could do nothing – in his place. Now that is a pretty clear message, wouldn't you say? They do not even want to listen or dialog.

But the government has been stepping on international toes. As the law – which is still in formation – was written, the Anglican church and the Coptics would not be recognized here in Hungary. That is a slap in the face of the English, and a bit ironic to exclude the Coptics since the Coptic church is OLDER than the Roman Catholic church!! So the Hungarian government is scrambling to write their delimiters in a way that does not offend some yet still achieves its end goal. The former regime – the Communists – would have just thrown the Moonies out. Case closed. They were much more straight forward.

The Catholic church has a long history of being intolerant toward dissent. Such was the Inquisitions in the distant past. But it seems like the Catholic church never learns, here it is doing the same thing, only in a not such a blatant manner. I thought this was a free country? The (Catholic) church and state seem to be working in unison here. Hmm! (Yes, I need to remind myself, this is not USA.)

This change will mean that we will officially be known as a "sekta" – that is, a "cult". A few days ago I had a conversation with one of my fellow teachers. He admitted that he is Catholic only in name, only on paper – registered with the government. But he still was lightning fast to label me as a "sekta" – cult member. 

If one is not Catholic, Calvinist, Lutheran, or maybe Baptist, you are a cult. It is cut and dry. Only about 5% of the population is really what we would call as really Christian. A country filled with Christians will effect the society and cause positive change. But they are bent on erradicating any agents of change.

Well, Christians can live here, but the government is making it difficult. If someone is a weak Christian this may well be a turning point for them. The extra financial demand that some really tiny churches may put on their members may push some away. The fact that they will not be able to build a building will not help. 

So often it seems like this country is going BACKWARDS! Rather than becoming more like the west, they are becoming more balkan. If there is a way to put themselves behind, they seem to find it. I with the Hungarians well, but they are their own worst enemies! Frustrating.

These factors can be overcome, but the Christians must take on a new mentality – this does not come quickly or easily. What I am saying is, faith maturity can overcome this. But, most people who think that they are mature are not. They can swim in a weak stream, but in a strong one they are simply washed away.

At this moment, the law has not actually taken effect. It will happen, but exactly who will be the subjects of the inquisition is not fully clear. We are trying to find a way to define ourselves that the government will allow us to keep this status. What determines a "church" - One that has been in Hungary for 100 years? One that has 1000 members? One that is affiliated with an international group that is 100 years old? . . . . The story is not over yet.

I will be able to stay – as it is. But, the church will be hampered. It would be easy to say "This is probably a good thing for you." But that would also be a VERY insensitive thing to say. What do you mean, it is okay that the church face hardship like this, that some even lose their faith?  Don't be glib!

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Tibor, the PE teacher, with whom I've gone to the ski camp four years, asked today, "You are religious aren't you – what religion are you?" I replied, "I'm a Christian." He replied in typical Hungarian fashion, "You are a cult!"

Tibor knows me well, so I lifted up my half empty soup bowl, threatening to pour it on his head, "I'm not a cult member, Tibor!" I set it down and I went on to describe - in an unthreatening manner - a few theological points about what I believe and don't believe, even contrasting my convictions with the Catholic church. (Both Tibor and the other teacher at the table are "Catholic" - at least on paper.) It seemed to be taken well.

I am not sad at all that the conversation did not go deeper. Nor do I plan on "following up" on him. He needs time to digest what we talked about. Nothing is won if we race too fast. He'd most certainly turn away, labeling me a "fanatic" - that's worse than being a cult member. When he's ready, he'll come back and ask. My #1 job is to love, not to make disciples.

To often have Jesus in your conversation will turn people off. It is not normal. I cannot believe that this is how God would have us to act. One needs not be blatant in order to be powerful. I rarely bring up my faith, that he brought it us surprised me.