Gathering Under the Turul Bird and Umbrellas

2006—Sixth Pilgrimage

First Parish’s sixth formal visit to our partner, Abásfalva included 18 pilgrims – 11 of who’ve been there at least once before. This time, many of us came from different directions and on different days. Three came a week early to help run a 3-day-2-night camp (for kids from three villages); three had been to the language school in Debrecen (Hungary) and arrived early on Friday; hours before the rest of the troops. What a treat it was to experience the village “at rest”! We felt like family, there for the Falutalálkozo – Village Gathering or Homecoming.

The Gathering was called by Rev. Áron Barabás to celebrate the replacement of the village’s Turul Bird. The original had resided atop the World War I monument on the main road, until it was either broken or stolen many years ago. A handsome new iron bird is now anchored securely there – a grand celebration took place on Saturday. Bishop Árpád Szabó came to preach the sermon and to participate in the service of communion. It was a wonderful occasion, with a very full church and the choir singing. We (who speak very little Hungarian) were told later that the Bishop was exhorting the young people who have moved away to keep the faith and remain active as Unitarians.

Near the end of the service, lightning and thunder intruded – and torrential rain impeded our exit from the church. After we secured some rain gear, we all walked up to dedicate the Turul Bird. There were several speeches, and then the Bird was unveiled. The choir sang, and poems were recited by a few young folks (toddlers when we first met them!). The village is apparently pleased to have that symbol of their Hungarian roots displayed so proudly.

After the unveiling ceremony, we wetly repaired to the Community Center where a feast was awaiting us. Several of the American visitors who had been to Abásfalva before were allowed to help with serving the food – some had even helped with a bit of the preparation! (A word I learned for the first time is segithetek – “may I help?” – that added to the ‘family feeling’ because I was put right to work!) We had many toasts and much good food. A small band showed up – and the dancing went on until dawn!

Nancy Daugherty

from the Partner Church News, Autumn, 2006