WELCOME

Szia! (Hello!), I hope this newsletter finds you well. This newsletter marks the beginning of my year of accompaniment in the beautiful country of Hungary, and I am excited to share its special moments with you all. The ELCA’s Young Adults in Global Mission (YAGM) has placed me in the Central Europe cohort, specifically in Szarvas, Hungary, where in the coming weeks, I will be dicerning the specific activities/service I will be apart of. Over the next year, I aim to provide at least one newsletter every other month, which will update you all on my whereabouts, service, highlights, as well as provide a critical book review! Further book recommendations would be greatly appreciated!

MEET THE COHORT

Allow me to introduce my incredible cohort members (left to right):

Lindsey - Nyíregyháza, Hungary

Sylvia and Sara - Budapest, Hungary

Madeline - Szeged, Hungary

THE JOURNEY TO HUNGARY

ORIENTATION IN CHICAGO

My YAGM experience began in late August with a great orientation in Chicago. During ten days, our international cohort embarked on a diverse range of sessions and enjoyed many fun activities. It was a memorable time that allowed us to connect, learn, and prepare for our respective assignments. Our cohort is dispersed across the globe, with placements in Jerusalem, Senegal, Argentina, Uruguay, Mexico, the United Kingdom, and Central Europe.

BRATISLAVA, SLOVAKIA

Following our Chicago orientation, the Central Europe cohort, headed to Vienna for our in-region orientation. Our first stop was the stunning city of Bratislava, Slovakia, where we were graciously hosted by our dedicated country coordinator, Kelly, her husband Aaron, and their charming dog Winnie.

During our brief time in Bratislava, we embarked on a 20th-century historical walking tour, delving into the city's experiences under both fascist and communist rule. Additionally, we had the unique opportunity to observe Slovakia's Constitution Day on September 1st, where we explored The National Council of the Slovak Republic and the Bratislava Castle. The castle houses various museums on each level that cover Slovakian art, history, and culture!

PILISCABA & BUDAPEST, HUNGARY

Following Bratislava, our journey continued as we took a train to Piliscaba, Hungary, where we stayed at a retreat center for a few weeks. Here, we have commenced in intensive sessions on the Hungarian language. It's proven to be quite challenging but undeniably fascinating and beautiful. I am excited to share with you all new words/phrases in the coming months!

During our time in Piliscaba, we took a train to Budapest on a few occasions. The first day involved going through the Terror Háza, Hungary’s historic building at 60 Andrassy Avenue in Budapest. Its past involved being the headquarters for the Hungarian Nazi Arrow Cross Party during World War II and later by the Hungarian Communist Party's secret police, ÁVH. It now serves as a museum, memorial, and educational center that highlights the historical context, suffering, and impact under both totalitarian regimes. Our other experiences in Budapest involved testing our Hungarian skills throughout the city, visiting historical sites, learning Roma dances, enjoying the famous Szechenyi thermal baths, and celebrating our country coordinator, Kelly’s, birthday!

Overall, the experience has been one of great change but incredible opportunities. As my year of accompaniment unfolds, I look forward to sharing more stories, experiences, and insights with you all as I immerse myself into the Szarvas community! For all of those who have sent best wishes, prayers, and donations, I greatly appreciate you and thank you for your continued support.

Egészségére! (Cheers/To your health!)

Connor JL Moore