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Mirrors: Our Image about Ourselves, God, the World
Aftercare Conference, October 2009
When I received the circular and read Dr. Levente Horváth’s message and devotion titled “Calling Abraham and Calling Us”, it gave me much to think deeply about, but the subject of the Aftercare Conference especially aroused my curiosity. I remember the conferences which I attended as a resident of the Ozd Therapy Centre earlier this year. Both of them had a great effect on me, especially the one in Târgu Mureş (between 24-26 April). Then I really felt that God has serious plans for me regarding my future. From that moment I began to obey the will of God as I completed my therapy and started my new life, though with a little bit of stumbling. I soon discovered what my mission was. The Aftercare Conference in October strengthened me in this. I went to the much anticipated conference worried and disappointed in the picture I had of the outside world and I was also wondering about the image I had of myself and entering into the world of faith. I was touched by all the thoughts I heard there. Love and courage won over my fears, understanding and patience changed my tiredness, a new self confidence came above my doubts. My heart was filled with love by seeing so many kind people, whom I can call my friends.
Ferenc, Sfântu Gheorghe
Because of the distance, the Aftercare Conferences organized by the Bonus Pastor Foundation are the only possibility I have to keep personal contact with the Foundation and with the people who are so dear to me and who, similarly to me, want to progress in the faith. I attended an Aftercare Conference for the first time last year which was one of the most touching experiences in my life. Since then I have attended these events whenever I can. If I look back at this year, I feel like not many things have changed around me, but I have changed to a certain degree and this is very important. I can explain this with a pun: from being the “next of kin” (of an addict) I stepped forward to become “next of Him”. It was a great experience to hear about the Father, the gracious God, Jesus Christ and about the love which surrounds us from all over. I went to my first conference with fear and all alone, but I returned home with the comforting feeling that I will never have to be alone again.
Julia
It was a wonderful moment when I met those fellows again, who showed me a new possibility to stay firm, to live together and in love. I don’t think that I could have found this love, support and encouragement in another place in this form. I was very sorry that the time passed so quickly, but it was also uplifting to me that I have realized again and again that there is Somebody who allows me to experience that nothing happens in vain. I was surprised by myself and mainly by my feelings. There were moments when I was caught by a tremendous happiness, there were devotions when I choked back my tears, and why not, I was proud and happy to hear and answer the others’ questions: “How are you doing?” These all mean a source of energy which I often use in the moments when I feel lonely, when I’m depressed or tired. And finally, I would like to thank you for the sacrificial work, thank you that you exist and I will always carry you in my prayers.
Levente
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