In this issue of Glorious Hope

Convention Mission Statement

The Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada exists 1) to assist in extending the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ in lands of central and eastern Europe, particularly the Czech and Slovak Republics; 2) to support the work of Baptists and other evangelical churches in North America that minister to persons of Czech and Slovak descent, and 3) to provide a Christian context for worship, fellowship, teaching, and appreciation of heritage among those in the United States and Canada who bear interest in the nationalities we represent.

Misijní poslání konvence

Československá baptistická konvence Spojených států a Kanady byla ustanovena za účelem: 1) napomáhat v šíření evangelia našeho Pána Ježíše Krista v zemích střední a východní Evropy, zvláště v České a Slovenské republice; 2) podporovat práci baptistů a jiných evangelikálních církví v severní Americe, které slouží českým a slovenským potomkům; 3) předkládat formu bohoslužby, obecenství a učení, vážit si dědictví těch, ve Spojených státech a v Kanadě, kterým leží na srdci národy, které reprezentujeme.

Contents: From the President–Robert Dvorak.................................................... 2 Prezident konvence–Robert Dvorak................................................... 3 From the First Vice President–Joza Novak.................................................. 4 From the Executive Secretary–Darko Siracki...................................... 5 George Sommer—Executive Secretary 1980–2010...................... 5 Glimpse into the History–Natasha Laurinc...................................... 6 Pohled do historie–Nataša Laurincová.............................................. 8 It Happened Last 100 Years–Ruby Mikulencak............................... 10 Greetings and Congratulatory Letters............................................... 12 Pastor Dan Widlicka Remembers - Dan Widlicka........................... 15 The Missionary Work–Natasha Laurinc................................................ 16 Misijní práce–Nataša Laurincová............................................................ 17 Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of the USA and Canada: Timeline—History to 101st Year................................................................ 18 Timeline—Magazine........................................................................................ 46 Timeline—The Czechoslovak Baptist Women’s Mission Union ... 52

Glorious Hope/Slavná nadìje Volume 37, No 3, 2011 (USPS 009334), ISSN 0700-5202 Published Bi-Monthly by The Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada. Periodical postage paid in Philippi, WV.

Editor-in-Chief: Natasha Laurinc email: [email protected] You may send articles to above address.

Desktop publishing and art: Vit Malek Assistant Editors: Janice Cermak, Ondrej Laurinc, Ph.D. Production Manager: George Sommer Editorial Staff: George Sommer, Joseph Novak POSTMASTER: Send address changes to

Publication Office:

Glorious Hope / Slavná nadìje Rt. 4, Box 58D, Philippi, WV 26416-9717 USA.

email: [email protected] WWW.CZSKBC.ORG

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From the President Our Story n this issue of Glorious Hope you will be seeing and reading a lot about 100 years of Czechoslovak Baptist Convention existence and operation. We have such a wonderful story to tell. It is about the grace of God to our forebears and all that we loved and respected about them. It is also about the central, invigorating presence of the Holy Spirit in our mission down through the years to the present time. Ultimately this is not about us as a convention, but about the Lord at work in the world, bringing the gospel of salvation to nations and groups, among them Slovaks and Czechs who came to live in countries other than their native lands. God seems initially to have raised up the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention in order that the life, work, and ministry of congregations filled with immigrants to North America might flourish in the “new world.” July 3, 1909, saw some faithful Baptist pastors and churches of east central European extraction gather in Chicago to explore ways in which they might work together and help one another. Their English wasn’t so good, but they could speak beautifully the languages of their homelands, which everyone present seemed to have been able to understand. Those who attended loved the fellowship. They quickly saw great potential in coordinating some aspects of their respective congregational experiences. Certainly they comprehended the words of Jesus in Matthew 18:19, and may even have quoted them to one another: “Truly I tell you, if two of you agree on earth about anything you ask, it will be done for you by my Father in heaven.” So they were inclined to trust one another, share insights about the challenges and opportunities they were facing, maybe quarrel a little bit (gently and in the Spirit, one hopes), express opinions candidly, and begin to tackle problems common to the day. They dreamed of ways the young persons in their congregations might meet together, women organize into denomination-like mission focuses, congregations find help in securing new or replacement pastors through the reservoir of candidates available among the ministers. Most of all those who came together knew that effective evangelism and outreach—the heartbeat of  Continues on page 15

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Covers: Vit Malek—used photos from convention archive Convention historic photos were scanned and re-touched by Eric Shereda Convention photos—Darko Siracki, Dusko Pilic, John Jeren Jr., Vlast Pojman, George Sommer, Maja Siracki, Eva Rehakova, David Wiseman History of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada

Prezident konvence Náš příběh tomto čísle Slavné naděje uvidíte a dočtete se mnoho o stoleté existenci a činnosti Československé konvence baptistů. Chceme se podělit o obdivuhodný příběh. Týká se Boží milosti projevené našim předkům a všeho toho, co jsme na nich milovali a vážili si. Týká se to také toho nejdůležitějšího, a to oživující přítomnosti Ducha Svatého při našem poslání v průběhu let až do současnosti. Nakonec se to netýká jen nás jako konvence, ale Boží práce ve světě, nesoucí zvěst o spasení národům a skupinám, mezi nimi Slovákům a Čechům, kteří přišli do zemí, jenž nebyly jejich rodnou zemí. Zdá se, že Bůh původně vybudoval Československou konvenci baptistů za účelem toho, aby život, práce a služba ve shromážděních, které tvořili emigranti v Severní Americe, v „novém světě“ plně prosperovali. V Chicagu byl 3. červenec 1909 svědkem sejití několika věrných baptistických kazatelů a sborů, původem ze středovýchodní Evropy, kteří zkoumali způsoby, jak si vzájemně pomoci. Anglicky moc neuměli, ale dohovořili se svými překrásnými mateřskými jazyky, kterým všichni přítomní, zdá se, rozuměli. Zúčastnění milovali obecenství. Okamžitě pochopili ohromnou možnost v koordinování některých aspektů ze zkušeností vlastního společenství. Rozhodně pochopili Ježíšova slova v Matoušově evangeliu 18;19, možná si je dokonce i citovali: „Říkám vám také, že pokud se dva z vás na zemi shodnou ohledně čehokoli, za co by prosili, stane se jim to od mého nebeského Otce.” Vzájemně si důvěřovali, sdíleli porozumění při výzvách i příležitostech, kterým čelili, možná se i trochu dohadovali (mírně a v Duchu, doufejme), vyjadřujíce názory laskavě a řešíce tehdejší problémy. Toužili po tom, aby se v jejich shromážděních měli mladí lidé možnost setkat, aby se sestry mohly spojit v misijních zájmech a aby společenství našla

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pomoc při výměně nebo zajištění nových pastorů z dostatečného množství kandidátů v řadách kazatelů. Většina z nich si byla vědoma toho, že úspěšná evangelizace a její dosah – srdce každé křesťanské věřící komunity – dokázaly významné věci ze společných zdrojů a že jedno společenství, které zkouší „jít na vlastní pěst”, čelí mnohým nedostatkům, ale spojí-li se s dalšími, mohou mnohé docílit. „Společně lépe” mohlo být výstižným heslem pro to, co přicházelo. A tak to začalo. Tři roky na zkoušku, v roce1912, společenství, které se setkalo v Poundu, Wisconsin, se oddělilo od polské části a stanovilo si vlastní program. Nato bylo přijato jméno Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of America (Československá baptistická americká konvence) a shromáždění zvolilo výbor stávajíci ze čtyř členů, kterými byli: kazatel Matthias Steuček, prezident; kazatel August Meereis, viceprezident; kazatel Václav Hlad, tajemník; Ján Valaštiak, pokladník. Bezprostředně byla vykonána sbírka; výtěžek byl $7.00. A to do začátku stačilo! O století později Československá baptistická konvence USA a Kanady má docela jiný vzhled, než měla při svém ustanovení v roce 1909. Na několik let se kolébkou konvence stalo Philippi, Západní Virginie, ne Chicago, Illinois. Každé léto se na čtyři dny sejdeme na univerzitě Alderson-Broaddus College. V současné době se delegáti konvence skládají z členů, kteří se stotožňují s dlouholetým misijním zaměřením a posláním konvence. Pochopitelně se mnohé v struktuře a stylu konvence změnilo, ale oddanost Kristu, věrnost evangeliu, závazek zvěstování Krista národům a soudržnost, zvláště s baptistickými bratry a sestrami ve vlasti Slováků a Čechů, je stálá. Chcete odhalit více z našeho příběhu na stránkách časopisu? Věříme, že to, co zde najdete, se vám bude líbit. A nadto nadevšecko doufáme, že Pán schvaluje zápis naší konvence. Náším prvořadým úkolem je, abychom se Mu ve všem zalíbili. Díky za čtení a zvláště díky našim editorům a spolupracovníkům za zpracování tohoto materiálu. Robert Dvorak, prezident Československé baptistické konvence Přeložila Nataša Laurincová 

Banquet, November 1927 History of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada

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From the First Vice President

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am very happy to write down my impressions of the Czechoslovak Baptist Centennial Convention. I attended the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention for the first time in 1954, in Toronto, Canada. In April I had just graduated from Winnipeg Bible College. I was asked to speak about Joshua. Next year we met in Chicago, and I was asked to address the Ladies’ Missionary Union. This is still very fresh in my mind, because just before I was to start my message, I had a telephone call from my sister-in-law, who told me that my wife Rose had given birth that morning to our son David. Because I was so excited and nervous, in my introduction, instead of saying that on the twelfth of July the Lord had blessed us with a son, I proudly declared that the Lord had blessed us with our twelfth son. As the years went by I became a member of the General Board. In 1960 I was elected vice president, and in 1963, president. From 1970 until 1980 I served as executive secretary. Since then I have held the office of president for Canada and first vice president of the Convention. In 1973 I served as editor of Glorious Hope.

Now let me come back to our Centennial Convention. Throughout the years I have seen many changes. At times I was afraid that our Czechoslovak Baptist Convention had no future, and no purpose to continue. Then, under the leadership of Rev. Henry Boubelik, our Convention was rejuvenated. After the collapse of communism in Czechoslovakia, a new door was open for mission ministry. Our Convention seized that new opportunity for mission and started to support the Baptist Unions in the Czech and Slovak Republics. Now new and younger people have taken over the leadership, and our Convention is alive and active. This was especially evident at our Centennial gathering from July 9 to12, 2009. My wife Rose and I thoroughly enjoyed those days. It was very encouraging to see so many young people and children. Congregational singing, combined choir and other musical numbers were uplifting and inspiring. Messages by Dr. Denton Lotz and by Canadian evangelist Dr. Barry Moore were challenging and heart-searching. Bible studies in Slovak and English languages were educational, instructive and uplifting. I also appreciated the combined choir from the Toronto area (most of them were members of the Czechoslovak Baptist church when I was their pastor, between 1955 and 1978). We all enjoyed those old Czech pieces from the hymn book called Chvalozpěvy. I believe that the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention has a purpose and reason to continue, and I pray that we will continue to serve the Lord for many more years. Rev. Joza Novak 

It Happened Last 100 Years… Continues from page 11 We have a wonderful heritage often stopping in Cleveland for a that we should never forget. I am visit with Esther and Bill Widlicka. In the latter years my sister Ruth proud to be of Czech descent and Whitlow joined us as well. am so grateful to the Lord for the Convention and to you who make The involvement with the Conup the Convention. vention these past 20 years have I close with reminding us of been such an honor and blessing some of the things that I found to me. I count it such a privilege to know many of you and also many Uncle Henry constantly passionate about all through his ministry on who have already gone to our heavenly home. I am grateful too for the earth: Czech congregations, missions, radio, young people, good times I have shared at the women’s missionary gathering, as well as food and of course fishing!! Dr. Robert Mobley and Dr. Denton Lotz I look forward to one day seeing the times I was able to share with him and countless others of Czech the whole convention about the and Slovak origin when we meet up there in heaven. Praise work in Ghana, West Africa. I fondly remember Brother the Lord for the future and the hope we have of being one Mobley as president, and of course our present president, Brother Bob, has always made me feel so much a part of big family of God in our eternal home.  the Convention. 4

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History of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada

From the Executive Secretary

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he first Convention I attended was in 1992. I moved to Canada in 1991, and shortly afterwards I met the youth of the Slovak Baptist Church in Kingsville and started attending all the conferences and conventions with them. We would travel regularly to the spring conference of the Toronto church as well as to all three conferences of the South Slavic Evangelical Mission. In the spring of 2004, I was asked to join the General Board of the Convention and help with the youth. In 2008 Brian Dors and I were asked to help in coordination and preparation of our Centennial Celebration, held in July 2009. That same year I was asked to consider the position of executive secretary upon the retirement of George Sommer. It is an honor and a great responsibility to be entrusted with this position. I deeply

appreciate your prayers as well as the encouragement shown to me and my wife Maja. I am looking forward to all the challenges as executive secretary, not only during the annual convention but throughout the entire year. One of my favorite and most encouraging Bible verses is Jeremiah 29:11: “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans to prosper you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future.” I hope it will be encouragement not only to you but to the entire Czechoslovak Baptist Convention. The Lord had a plan for our Convention. And it is clear to many of us that this plan is not fully completed. The Lord blessed the Convention and He made it prosper in many ways, and only He knows the future of the Convention. I encourage you to be part of it. In His service, Darko Siracki “Your talk talks, and your walk talks, but your walk talks louder than your talk talks.” “I, therefore…beseech you to walk worthy of the calling with which you were called.” (Ephesians 4:1) 

George Sommer Executive Secretary 1980–2010 Our First Convention e arrived in the USA in late August 1969. We knew of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of the USA and Canada, but we did not have any contact. Later on we got

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the address of Mr. & Mrs. Piroch, editor of Pravda a Slavna nadeje, and they sent us the magazine, where we learned about the convention. We wanted to attend the next annual convention, but unfortunately, the convention was held in Toronto and then in Minitonas, both in Canada,

and as we did not have a green card, we could not leave the USA. We learned that the 1972 convention would be held at a church in Campbell, Ohio. At that time, the pastor of the church was Rev. John Karenko. We sent the registration and a letter that I would like to lead the convention choir, same as we did back in Czechoslovakia during our annual conferences. When we arrived, I asked Rev. Joza Novak if they had received my letter. He was laughing and said that Rev. John Karenko did not know the Czech language, so Joza had to translate for him. We were very surprised—the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention, how come they do not speak Czech? Well, eventually we organized the convention choir that sang during the convention. With God’s help I led the convention choir until 1988. George and Marija Sommer

Martin Alac daughters with Marija Sommer History of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada

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Glimpse into the History of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada

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homeland is a place with which a The first Bohemian immigrant to America group of people holds a shared hiswas Augustine Heřman (1621–1686), a Czech tory and a deep cultural association, nobleman who came to New York in 1633. a geographical region in which a particular The first Slovak to come to America, in 1785, national identity developed. Nothing is so was Duke Móric Beňovský (1746–1786), King dear to people as home. Being forced to leave of Madagascar. Mass immigration to America began in the nineteenth century for politione’s native country with no possibility of return is a very cruel kind of punishment. cal reasons. Soon after coming to America, There are many reasons that people might Czechs and Slovaks started publishing their Natasha Laurinc choose to emigrate. Some are religious, own various papers and books and having private schools. political or economic freedom, or escape. In the case of Czech and Slovak people, the main cause was The greatest centre for Czechs was Chicago, Illinois, and religious. The second cause was political, and the third for Slovaks, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. In the 1990 US cenreason was economic. It is believed that probably there is sus, Slovak-Americans made up the second-largest portion no country in the world today where there are no Czech of Slavic ethnic groups. There are currently about 790,000 people of Slovak descent living in the United States. and Slovak people. The earliest known emigration from Bohemia to North According to the 2000 US census, there are 1,262,527 America happened in the first part of the 17th century, after Americans of full or partial Czech descent, in addition to 441,403 persons listing their ancestry as Czechoslovak. the disastrous Battle of White Mountain in 1620. This The Baptists began mission work among the Czechs and battle marked the beginning of the collapse of ProtestantSlovaks in America in 1887. First Bohemian Baptist Church of Chicago, Illinois, became the cradle of the Czecho-Slovak Baptist mission work. On Sunday, January 8, 1888, Rev. L. Lany, the missionary for the Bohemians, started services, and on February 3, 1888, six people were baptized on confession of their faith in Jesus Christ. During the same year twelve more persons were baptized, and the little group grew. After two years Rev. L. Lany returned to work among the immigrants at Ellis Island, doorway to the USA. Rev. Jacob Meier, pastor of the First German Baptist Church, made connections with Rev. Henry Novotný of The first Bohemian The first Slovaj Prague, asking him to suggest a missionary. Mr. Novotný immigrant to America immigrant to America Augustine Heřman Duke Móric Beňovský recommended Mr. John Kejř, a Bohemian colporteur. Mr. (1621–1686) (1746–1786) Kejř accepted, and began his ministry on February 5, 1891. The Czech and Slovak Baptists sought the opportunity ism and the downfall of the nation’s independence. The to unite. In 1902, Rev. Václav Králíček suggested a joint re-Catholization of Bohemia and Moravia followed. An meeting in Chicago. On Thanksgiving Day in 1909, the first imperial patent was issued in 1627 ordering Protestants Slavic Baptist Convention met under the leadership of Rev. to convert to the Catholic faith or leave the country. That Králíček, then pastor of First Bohemian Baptist Church. brought about the greatest exodus from the Bohemian Delegates also included pastors and lay persons from Polish lands. Entire families fled to many European states and Baptist churches. The Convention elected four officers, also to America. An estimated 150,000 to 200,000 Czech all clergy, to carry on its initial organizational work: Rev. Protestants left their homeland at that time, including one Václav Králíček, president; Rev. Matthias Steuček, vice of the greatest of the world’s teachers, the prominent Jan president; Rev. Karel Střelec, recording secretary; and Rev. Amos Komenský. Václav Hlad, treasurer. Three years later, at a convention

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held in Pound, Wisconsin, members decided that Polish Baptists and Czechoslovak Baptists should pursue their work separately. Consequently the Slavic Baptist Convention dissolved, and immediately the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of America was organized. It met the following year, 1913, in Creighton, Pennsylvania, and has convened annually ever since. In the early years of Convention life, most energy and activity was directed toward denominational concerns: the establishment of congregations and relationships among ministers, development of mission work, organization of a women‘s auxiliary and youth associations, discussion of theological concerns, and cooperation in financial matters. Over subsequent years the Convention has called and sent missionaries to Czechoslovakia and other countries, and in other ways has always sought ways to support mission enterprises abroad. Soon the Convention saw the need for a communication linkage among the constituency, and so it provided for a publishing ministry. For many years the convention magazine bore the name Pravda a Slavná naděje (Truth and Glorious Hope). Currently the periodical, published bi-monthly, carries the title Glorious Hope/Slavná naděje. During the hardest years of the Communist regime in Czechoslovakia, when political rigidities made contact with the homelands of Central Europe difficult, the Convention turned its attention to Haiti and the support of evangelism and church planting in that Caribbean nation. The focus on Slavic lands, however, was never forgotten. In the 1970s and 1980s the Convention turned once again to its first love, supporting gospel outreach in Czechoslovakia, this


time through language-specific broadcasting of TransWorld Radio (TWR) in Monte Carlo. More recently still, the 84th Annual Convention held in Minitonas, Manitoba, in 1993, voted to shift funding from TWR broadcasting to the Baptist Unions of the Czech Republic and Slovakia directly. Since 1994, then, on an alternating-year basis, the Czech Baptist leadership and the Slovak Baptist leadership make proposals to the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada for specific financial support. In the summer of 1997, the president and executive secretary of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention visited in the Czech Republic and Slovakia with local Baptist Union leaders, pastors, and congregations, in an effort to further solidify the long ongoing relationship with Baptist brothers and sisters there. In 1997 only six congregations maintained formal identification as Czechoslovak Baptist Convention churches. Three are located in Canada: First Czech Baptist Church, Minitonas, MB; Czechoslovak Baptist Church, Toronto, ON; and Grace Baptist Church, Windsor, ON. Three others are in the United States: Scranton Road Baptist Church, Cleveland, OH; Hatch Hollow Baptist Church, Union City, PA; and First Baptist Church, Campbell, OH. Most other congregations formerly associated with the Convention have redirected their connections toward the larger national and regional Baptist bodies in both countries. In some cases, membership demographics have so significantly changed as to render a given congregation no longer Czech or Slovak in identity or interest. Some earlier churches of the Convention have disbanded; a few have chosen to drop affiliation and pursue independent paths.  Continues on page 15

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Pohled do historie Československé baptistické konvence v USA a Kanadě

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odná zem je místo, kde určitá skupina lidí sdílí společnou historii a má hlubokou kulturní asociaci, zeměpisnou oblast, ve které se formuje specifická identita. Není nic dražšího než domov. Násilný odchod z vlasti bez možnosti návratu je velmi krutá forma trestu. Lidé se rozhodují k emigraci z několika důvodů. Některé se týkají náboženské, politické nebo ekonomiské svodody. V případě Čechů a Slováků hlavním důvodem byla svoboda vyznání. Na druhém místě to byly důvody politické, na třetím existenční. Říká se, že na světě snad není země, kde by nežili Češi a Slováci. První zmínka o emigraci z Čech do Severní Ameriky je z první poloviny 17. století, po prohrané bitvě na Bílé hoře v roce 1620. Touto bitvou je označován počátek pronásledování protestantů a ztráty národní nezávislosti. Po té následovala rekatolizace Čech a Moravy. Císařský patent z roku 1627 nařizoval přijetí katolické víry anebo vystěhování. To způsobilo hromadný odchod z českých zemí. Celé rodiny uprchly do různých evropských států a také do Ameriky. Odhaduje se, že v té době opustilo svou vlast 150 000 až 200 000 českých protestantů, mezi nimi i významná osobnost, učitel národů Jan Ámos Komenský. Prvním českým emigrantem do Ameriky byl Augustine Heřman (1621–1686), český šlechtic, který přišel do New Yorku v roce 1633. Hrabě Móric Beňovský (1746– 1786), král Madagaskaru, byl prvním Slovákem, který přišel do Ameriky v roce 1785. Masová emigrace do Ameriky, z politických důvodů, se datuje do 19. století. Krátce po příchodu do Ameriky Češi i Slováci vydávali své noviny, knihy a zakládali vlastní školy. Největší středisko Čechů se nacházelo v Chicagu, v Illinois, a střediskem Slováků byl Pittsburgh v Pennsylvanii. Podle sčítání obyvatel v USA z roku 1990 jsou druhou největší částí slovanských etnických skupin Slováci. V současné době žije ve Spojených státech 790 000 lidí slovenského původu. Sčítání obyvatel v USA z roku 2000

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uvádí, že 1 262 527 Američanů je původu českého anebo má původ částečně český, a dalších 441 403 lidí uvádí své předky Čechoslováky. Baptistická práce mezi Čechy a Slováky v Americe začala v roce 1887. První český baptistický sbor v Chicagu, v Illinois, se stal kolébkou česko-slovenské misijní práce. Bohoslužby zahájil v neděli 8. ledna1888 kazatel L. Lany, misionář pracujíci mezi Čechy, a 3.února 1888 bylo šest lidí pokřtěno na vyznání své víry v Pána Ježíše Krista. V průběhu roku bylo pokřtěno dalších dvanáct lidí a skupinka se rozrůstala. Po dvou letech se kazatel L. Lany vrátil k práci mezi emigranty na ostrov Ellis, vstupní brány do USA. Kazatel Prvního německého baptistického sboru v USA Jacob Meier navázal kontakt s kazatelem Jindřichem Novotným z Prahy ohledně misonáře. J. Novotný doporučil Jana Kejře, českého kolportéra biblí. J. Kejř nabídku přijal a službu započal 5. února 1891. Čeští a slovenští baptisté hledali příležitost ke sjednocení. V roce 1902 Rev. John Kejr kazatel Prvního českého baptistického sboru Václav Králíček navrhl společné shromáždění v Chicagu. V Den díkůvzdání v roce 1909 se pod jeho vedením sešla první Slovanská baptistická konvence. Mezi delegáty byli přítomní také kazatelé a laičtí pracovníci

Minitonas 1974


polských baptistických sborů. Za účelem organizace konvence zvolila z řady kazatelů čtyři vedoucí pracovníky: kaz. Václava Králíčka prezidentem, kaz. Matthiase Steučka viceprezidentem, kaz. Karla Střelce zapisovatelem a kaz. Václava Hlada pokladníkem. Tři roky na to, na konvenci v Poundu, ve Wisconsinu, z rozhodnutí členů konvence se polští a českoslovenští baptisté rozdělili. Následkem toho byla Slovanská baptistická konvence rozpuštěna a okamžitě ustanovena Československá baptistická konvence v Americe. Sešla se v následujícím roce 1913 v Creightonu, v Pennsylvanii, a od té doby se každým rokem schází pravidelně. V počátcích konvence byla většina úsilí a činnosti zaměIn the summer of 1997, the president and executive secretary of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention visited the Czech Republic and Slovakia. řena na církevní zájmy: zakládání společenství a upevňování From left: Marija Sommer, Robert Dvorak, Dorothy Dvorak, George vztahů mezi kazateli, rozvoj misijní práce, organizování Sommer, Květa Šolcová and Miloš Šolc sesterských dobročinných kroužků a mládeže, řešení teologických otázek a spolupráci ohledně baptistů, kazatele a sbory v České finančních záležitostí. V dalších letech konvence republice a na Slovensku za účelem povolala a vyslala misionáře do Českoslovendalšího upevnění dlouhodobých ska a jiných zemí, a vždy hledala další cesty k vztahů s tamními bratry a sestrami. podpoře misijních organizací v zahraničí. Záhy V roce 1997 se pouze šest sborů konvence pocítila potřebu vlastního sdělovahlásilo k Československé baptiscího prostředku mezi členstvem, a tak založila tické kovenci. Tři jsou v Kanadě: vydavatelství. Po mnoho let se konvenční časopis První český baptistický sbor v jmenoval Pravda a Slavná naděje. V současné Minitonas, MB, Československý době časopis vychází každé dva měsíce a nese baptistický sbor v Torontě, ON, a název Glorious Hope/Slavná naděje. Baptistický sbor milost ve WindV nejtěžších letech komunistického režimu soru, ON. Další tři jsou ve Spojev Československu, kdy politická nekompromisných státech: Baptistický sbor na nost znemožnila kontakty s rodnými zeměmi ve Scrantonově ulici v Clevelandě, střední Evropě, se konvence zaměřila na Haiti OH, Baptistický sbor v Hatch a podporovala evangelizaci a zakládání sborů Hollow v Union City, PA, a První George Sommer, Marija Sommer, v této karibské oblasti. Slovanské země však baptistický sbor v Campbellu, OH. Jiří and Ludmila Dedecius nikdy neupadly v Většina dalších sborů patřízapomění. V letech cích do konvence se připojila k větším státním a 1970–1980 se konoblastním baptistickým tělesům jak v USA, tak vence opět navrátila i v Kanadě. V některých případech došlo k takoke své první lásce vým demografickým změnám, že se k českému v podpoře šíření nebo slovenskému původu již nehlásí a ani o to evangelia v Českonemají zájem. Některé dřívější sbory konvence se slovensku, tentokrát rozpadly, několik se rozhodlo zrušit členství a jít prostřednictvím svou vlastní cestou. rozhlasové stanice Je třeba dodat, že kromě šesti výše zmíněTrans World Radio ných sborů, konvence zahrnuje mnoho lidí, kteří (TWR) v Monte vyrůstali v Československém baptistickém sboru Carlu. Později, v Dobroslav Stehlík, George Sommer, nebo je zaujal život a práce konvence z nejrůznějroce 1993, na 84. Robert Dvorak and Petr Červinský ších osobních důvodů. Ve Spojených státech a v konvenci v MinniKanadě je na konvenčním seznamu 800 adres. tonasu, v Manitobě, přesunula podporu rozhlasové stanice Dá se říci, že dnešní konvence je charakterizována více TWR přímo Jednotě baptistů v Česku a na Slovensku. Od osobními než sborovými svazky. Spolupráce, jednota, oberoku 1994, na základě návrhů vedení slovenských a českých cenství, poslání a společné dědictví jsou dnes pravděpodobně baptistů, je zasílána každým rokem finanční podpora střídavě silnějším faktorem než kdykoliv předtím ve stoleté historii na Slovensko a do Česka. konvence. Nataša Laurincová V létě v roce 1997 navštívili prezident a tajemník Česko slovenské baptistické konvence, spolu s představiteli Jednoty History of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada

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It Happened Last 100 Years About Rev. Henry F. Boubelik By Ruby Mikulencak, Henry’s niece

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f it was not for Rev. Henry F. the Goodrich church in the Rib River, Boubelik, I would not be standing less than half a mile away from the present in front of you today. Uncle Henry Goodrich Community Church, formerly had a passion and love for the ConvenGoodrich Baptist Church, the home tion that started when he was a young church I grew up in. pastor in charge of five Wisconsin mission Some other interesting facts of this churches in the late 1940s. His love and northern outreach of the convention: concern for the Convention continued Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Ivaska moved to until the time of his death. Wherever he Westboro from their home church, New went as a pastor, the Convention was Covenant Baptist Church of Chicago. always part of him. I am convinced that This was one outpost. it was because of his passion while presiMr. and Mrs. John Pilch and family dent to keep the Convention alive and moved to Phillips, also members of the well that we can celebrate this 100th year new Covenant Baptist Church, which Ruby Mikulencak anniversary. I am sure he is looking down became another outpost. at us and enjoying seeing the fruit of his faithful years of Another group came from Minneapolis Slovak Baptist service to the Lord and to the Convention. Church to Arnold and Donald. In the late 1940s (Nov. 7, 1947 till January 2, 1955), The first full-time pastor of these churches was Brother Mike Evan followed by Dan Evan and then Henry F. Boubelik. Besides being the pastor of the five mission churches, Uncle Henry’s ministry also involved a radio program that reached into many Czech and Polish homes, not only in Wisconsin but in Minnesota as well, particularly in New Prague. He had a very active young people’s group that together with Youth for Christ made a huge impact in the northern sphere of Wisconsin. He also wrote a monthly newsletter of the Wisconsin mission work of the Convention that has helped me piece together some of the things that were accomplished in this northern mission field. After Uncle Henry left, most of the pastoring was done by lay pastors, most notably Henry Boubelik and Vic Wilcox and prominently Frank Macik and his understudy, John Mikulencak. Uncle Henry became the pastor of five Czech-related At the annual Convention of 1938, Joseph Macik, the churches in northern Wisconsin. This work started when a founder of the Goodrich group, was sent as a delegate number of Czechoslovak Baptist settlers made their home representing the Goodrich Baptist Church. He gave his in the Goodrich area. They were considered a mission greetings and ended his talk with “I’m so happy to be station of the Emmanuel (Bohemian) Baptist Church of here today among all you believers. If I never see any of Chicago, later called Lawndale Emmanuel Baptist. They you again in this world, I want to meet you all in heaven.” were visited once or twice a year by the pastors of the As he sat down his head slumped over and he passed into mother church. Rev. Vaclav Hlad, grandfather of Bob, our eternity right during the convention. Anyone here who president, and at that time pastor of the Lawndale Baptist remembers this? Church, was the first pastor to visit the mission churches In 1950 at the Convention in Cleveland, President Mike in northern Wisconsin. He baptized the first members of Evan stopped all proceedings and there was an hour spent 10

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in prayer. Those who attended this convention from Wising of Christ. Just consin were John and Rose Mikul, Anna Macik and Pastor before those meetBoubelik. The next Convention was held at Cedar Lake, ings, the Executive Indiana, in 1951. The news coming out of this convention of the Convention was that the Convention was going to be held in Medford, met and were conWisconsin, the following year. Missionary outreach for the sider ing closing convention that year and the previous year was $10,000. t he Convention. Unfortunately the Convention never came to Medford. Rev. Kerenko sugInstead it was held in the Immanuel Baptist Church in gested they pool the Minneapolis. Bob and Francis Gardner supplied the music, money and give it and Dan Widlicka led the music. Was this the first time to a worthy cause. of many conventions that our brother Dan roused us to Dan Widlicka sugsinging praises and adoration to our beloved Savior and gested, “Let’s pray King? Thank you, Dan, for your faithful years of service to about this before us all and to the Convention! Brother Frank Macik spoke we act.” Dur ing at this convention with a sermon entitled “Occupying for the revival meetChrist as Church Members.” ings wit h Uncle At that same convention, the then president, Rev. Henry, it was sugKmetko, asked Uncle Henry to broadcast the Convengested that he try to tion live from Minneapolis. It was the first time that radio revive the Convention by broadcasts came directly from taking up the presidency. the Convention. He took the challenge After around 1955 the trail and became president. I of the convention disappears strongly believe it was his until around 1968–69, when involvement that started it reappears again in Uncle the resurgence within the Henry’s life. In the late 1960s, Convention. This is a big Dan Widlicka was asked by Joe reason why we are meeting and Mary Schoun to come here today. back home to Scranton Road Sometime in 1973, Baptist Church. Dan did and Un c l e H e n r y m ove d became part of the Executo Minitonas for four tive of the Convention. He months, but ended up Mabel and Henry Boubelik, Daniel Widlicka contacted Uncle Henry and staying five years, as there asked him to do revival meetings on the Second Comwas a great need for the Czech congregation there. He was

Henry Boubelik and Frank Brdlik


also serving as the president of the Convention at the same time. In June of 1974, he took up a new post as missionary outreach for the Czech convention. He became the director of the Christian Missionary Stewardship Foundation. And this I think is where I come in! At the 1988 Convention in Cleveland, I was introduced to the Convention as a third-generation Czech. I have been involved with the Convention ever since that time, but never would have been if it hadn’t been for Uncle Henry’s vision of reviving the Convention by bringing in full-time workers of Czech descent. Every time I came home I was involved in the convention, which was about every three years. I remember fondly these years when my parents and I made the long trek from Wisconsin to West Virginia,  Continues on page 4       Vol 37 No 3, 11

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Greetings and Congratulatory Letters

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ear Brother Dvorak and participants of the Centennial Celebration: As you celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention, please accept my heartfelt congratulations on this joyous and most memorable occasion. I want you to know that your convention has had a profound influence in my life and ministry. Our family arrived in the USA in 1949, and in 1950 my father was invited to Cleveland, Ohio, to revitalize the ministry of the Russian Baptist Church there. The Russian congregation rented the facilities of the Scranton Road Baptist Church. Since our Russian services were held at 3 p.m., I was able to attend the Sunday school and morning services of the Scranton Road Baptist Church and to enjoy the wonderful preaching of Dr. Kmetko and the faithful teaching of our Sunday school teacher, whose name I have forgotten. When I was 16, my father baptized me in the sanctuary of that church. I never intended to go into the Christian ministry, and earned a degree in physics. But the Lord had other plans for me. Eventually, I attended Eastern Baptist Theological Seminary, studied in Germany and France and became pastor of the First Russian Baptist Church in Newark, NJ. (In 1972 we moved to Union, NJ, and changed the name to Evangelical Baptist Church.) I have been serving this bilingual congregation (English-Russian) for 45 years now. We’re part of the Russian-Ukrainian Evangelical Baptist Union, USA, and, this weekend—June 26–28—we will be celebrating the 90th Anniversary of RUEBU’s ministry in Philadelphia, where it all started. (You’re ten years ahead of us!) During this time I served in every possible capacity with RUEBU, including as president for eight years. In addition to my pastoral ministry, I was involved in radio ministry to the Soviet Union, and later to Russia, for 45 years. Since 1993, I have served as a trustee with the Moscow Theological Seminary (Russia), where I teach a course every year. I had the joy of introducing a youth ministry in Russia, which functions in six cities and operates a Transformation Christian Center for drug addicts. For 17 years I was Denton Lotz’s adviser with BWA for the former Soviet Union and Russia. There are other ministries. I share this information not to boast about myself but to give God the glory and to thank the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention for the important part that it played in my life as a teenager many years ago in Cleveland, Ohio. Were it not for Scranton Road Baptist Church, I don’t know where I would be today. Through its faithful ministry to me and through my ministry in Eastern and Western Europe, and 12

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North and South America, CBC has touched more lives than you can imagine. You have invested in my life, and my fruit is your fruit as well, to the eternal glory of God and the joy of those redeemed by Christ through our labors for Him. May the Lord bless you and all who are with you at your Centennial Convention as you celebrate the faithfulness of God and that of those who were once part of your fellowship. Congratulations on behalf of RUEBU, which I presently serve at its first vice president, and from our president, the Rev. George Harlov. Rejoicing with you, George Boltniew

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ítám vás jménem AldersonBroaddus College. This year you celebrate your Centennial of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention on the historic hilltop in Philippi. It was my privilege 20 years ago to invite you to hold your first convention at Alderson-Broaddus College. Thus began a mutually beneficial and enriching relationship that brings the Czech Baptist Convention back to Philippi on July 9-12, 2009, to celebrate 100 years of meeting the needs of the world through preaching the gospel. Few things are more demanding or inspiring than the perennial job of making the faith intelligible and credible, comprehensive and convincing, to well-informed and honest minds, which is the goal of your Convention. Nothing short of the gospel can bring the hope and stability that our world needs and wants so desperately. The students, faculty, staff, trustees, and alumni of Alderson-Broaddus College are proud of the College’s association with the Czech Baptist Convention, and we are all happy that you continue to choose Alderson-Broaddus as the place for your worship, renewal, study, and planning. Like you, Alderson-Broaddus College is proud of our Baptist roots and our Baptist heritage. We are also proud of our Baptist ideals, and we strive to live up to them. We pray God’s blessing upon you as you worship, plan, pray, fellowship, work, and celebrate during your Centennial Convention. It has been my joy to be associated with many of you over the years, and my only regret is that time and distance prohibit my joining you this year for the Czech Baptist Convention Centennial. Yours in Christ, William Christian Sizemore President of Alderson-Broaddus College, 1983–1994 History of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada

A Special Friendship or almost a quarter of a century, Alderson-Broaddus College and the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention have enjoyed a unique Christian partnership which has drawn the two closer together in a special way. What began for the College as the hosting of the annual convention on the campus each July has grown into a deep friendship defined by the caring manner exhibited by both groups. What began as a routine business venture has grown into a warm family gathering with members of each group genuinely committed to the care of the other. For over a dozen years (1995–2008), I had the pleasure of actively participating in this yearly Baptist gathering and gained many new and wonderful friends within the Convention. I had the privilege of conferring honorary doctoral degrees on Rev. Robert Mobley, Rev. Andrew Kmetko, and Rev. Robert Dvorak. From the meaningful worship services to the annual convention Sunday buffet, this was always a picture-perfect event. Susan and I had the pleasure of becoming good friends with Bob and Dottie, and we cherish our times together at the annual meeting. I so admired Bob’s dramatic preaching that I asked him to speak at one of our important Opening Convocations here on the campus. The Convention was so committed to the College that they implemented two endowed scholarships which will benefit A-B students for decades to come. This gift of love will provide love for years to come for many of our students. My strong personal feelings for my Czech brethren was exhibited in my carefully crafted annual welcoming letter and opening Convention remarks. For me this partnership was a spiritual tie between the majestic mountains of Central Europe and the magnificent mountains of Appalachia —a spiritual tie between fellow believers from Canada and the U.S. and the A-B family members called to serve others through Christian higher education. Each year, the Convention came to our mountaintop to provide its members with a mountaintop spiritual experience, but this annual gathering also provided us in the A-B family with a mountaintop spiritual experience! Dr. Steven Markwood President of Alderson-Broaddus College 1995–2008

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s I complete my first year as the eighth president of Alderson-Broaddus College, I am honored to reflect on the beautiful relationship between Alderson-Broaddus College and the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention. I have thoroughly enjoyed working with George and Marija Sommer, whose 40-year journey with A-B College and support for the Convention is a testimony of God’s grace and blessing. There can be no doubt that God led them to our school and has used them to bless the lives of countless faculty, staff and students.

George and Marija Sommer have been instrumental in the strong partnership between Alderson-Broaddus College and the Convention. When I think of the 20 years of songs, prayers, and fellowship brought to our campus by the Convention, I recognize the blessing of this gathering to our College family. Our College owes a debt of gratitude to George and Marija for their leadership, and to the Convention for the spirit and joy they brought to our school. In these days of economic uncertainty and worldwide trouble and fear, I am delighted that the message and ministry of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention prevails. The “glorious hope” found in each convention participant’s journey of faith and testimonial is an encouragement to all who pass our way. May God continue to bless the members and leaders of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention. With glorious hope, J. Michael Clyburn President of Alderson-Broaddus College, 2009–2010       Vol 37 No 3, 11

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Minitonas Greetings ear members of the czechoslovak convention, Milestones are amazing. God reminds us many times in scripture of the value of milestones and moments that impact generations to come. One hundred years is a significant achievement, but what is even more amazing is the hand of God and what He has done in those 100 years. When the people of Israel saw God’s miracle of the parting of the Red Sea, the parting of the Jordan River at flood time, God asked them to build a monument of stones. Why? So when they passed by those monuments they would be reminded of the power and glory of God. In that reminding they would be impressed to pass the story down to another generation of Hebrews. When God parted the waters of the Jordan River to let the chosen people enter the promised land, Joshua collected stones from the river bottom. He built a monument on the river bank as an object lesson for generations to come. “In the future when your descendants ask their fathers, ‘What do these stones mean?’” (Joshua 4:21). These stones will always remind their children that God keeps his promises and protects his people.

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Think of the people who have been impacted in the last 100 years because of the Czech Convention, the lives that have been transformed and renewed through Jesus Christ because a group of people 100 years ago began a vision that was prompted by God. Each year the monument laid down more reminding stones: stories of God changing lives, the gospel being preached, churches impacting their community for the Kingdom of God. Cornerstone Baptist Church would like to extend our congratulations for this milestone of which we have also been a part. I am reminded of the hymn written by Fanny Crossly, To God Be the Glory… To God be the glory, great things He has done; So loved He the world that He gave us His Son, Who yielded His life an atonement for sin, And opened the life gate that all may go in. Refrain Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, Let the earth hear His voice! Praise the Lord, praise the Lord, Let the people rejoice! O come to the Father, through Jesus the Son, And give Him the glory, great things He has done. In Christ, Pastor Garth Priebe Cornerstone Baptist Congregation

Czechoslovak Baptist Convention — 1993 Minitonas

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Pastor Dan Widlicka Remembers

n the fall of 1971 I attended the midyear planning session at the Hatch Hollow Baptist Church. Rev. Frank Brdlik was pastor. Rev. John Karenko was president of the Convention. During our session it was mentioned that we should consider dissolving the Convention and giving the remaining funds to our brethren in Czechoslovakia. After much prayer we felt the Lord was directing us to continue the Convention. One of the driving forces in this decision was the wonderful ministry of our periodical Glorious Hope, especially to our elderly brothers and sisters. (Editors at this time were Brothers Vladimir Canji and Stan Hibbins).

Almost immediately at our Convention in Campbell, Ohio, in 1972, the Lord brought George and Marija Sommer to us with their unique music ministry, and many others who had escaped from Czechoslovakia after 1968, mainly people from the Toronto Czechoslovak Baptist Church. In 1973 I became president of the Convention. At that time Rev. Henry Boubelik was pastor of the Minitonas Czechoslovak Baptist Church. In 1974 Rev. Boubelik was voted in as president of the Convention, followed by myself, Rev. John Michael, and Rev. Robert Mobley. The rest is history, with our current president, Rev. Robert Dvorak 

President… Continues from page 2 any Christian faith community—achieved significant things from pooling resources, and that one congregation trying to “go it alone” faces a lot of limitations, but when joined with others can attempt and accomplish much. “Better together” could have been a great slogan for what was getting underway. So it started. Three years into the experiment, in 1912, the convention that met in Pound, Wisconsin, separated from the Polish constituency to undertake an agenda of its own. Thereafter the name Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of America was adopted, and the convention elected a team of four officers: Rev. Matthias Steucek, president; Rev. August Meereis, vice president; Rev. Vaclav Hlad, secretary; and John Valastiak, treasurer. Immediately an offering was taken; it netted $7.00. And that was enough to get going! One century later the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of the USA and Canada looks a lot different from what got organized in 1909. For some years now the cradle of our convention has been Philippi, West Virginia, not Chicago, IL. Each summer we meet on the campus of Alderson-Broaddus College for four days. Currently, convention delegates are those individual members who identify with the mission and purposes of a very long run of convention years. A lot of things about the structure and style of the convention have, of course, changed, but allegiance to Christ, loyalty to the gospel, commitment to bring Christ to the nations, and a solidarity particularly with Baptist brothers and sisters in the Slovak and Czech History of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada

homelands remain fixed in place. Discover more of our story in the pages of this magazine, won’t you? We trust you will enjoy what you find here. Above all, we hope that the Lord approves of the record of this convention. Our primary goal is to please him in all things. Thanks for reading, and special thanks to our editors and contributors for putting all this material together. Robert Dvorak, President of Czechoslovak Baptist Convention 

Glimpse into the History… Continues from page 7 In addition to the six churches noted above, however, the Convention embraces numbers of people whose personal histories include formative years in Czechoslovak Baptist congregations or who have become interested in the life and work of the Convention for a variety of individual reasons. The mailing list for the United States and Canada numbers some 800 addresses. In some ways, the Convention today is characterized more by personal connectedness than by church networking. The collegiality, unity, fellowship, mission, and shared heritage are perhaps a stronger feature today than during some of the other periods in the hundred-year history of the Convention. Natasha Laurinc Drawn from various sources 

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The Missionary Work

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uring research on the Convention’s history, one word started flashing throughout the pages. The word was “mission.” It is amazing how many people of the Convention have heard the call and gone to the mission field. The Convention has had very able ministers and missionaries, well educated and equipped for mission work. Several ministers have achieved high degrees. In nineteen years the Convention contribRev. Václav Hlad uted over $33,000 towards the mission work in Europe and in America. Several churches and missions were established in Czechoslovakia. Over the course of time, the Convention had as its missionaries in Czechoslovakia Rev. K. Čermák, Rev. J. Dvořák, Rev. Kadlec, Rev. J. Roth, Rev. K. JerKatarína Hudáčková Rev. J.P. Piroch sák, Rev. T. Macháček, Rev. Mikulenčák, Rev. J.P. Piroch and Rev. H. Slanina, Rev. Ján Šturman, Rev. Václav Hlad, Rev. Frank Brdlík, Rev. Dr. V.J. Vita, Rev. Joseph J. Shereda, Katarína Hudáčková. In Poland our missionaries were Rev. V. Volanský and Rev. E. Volanský; in Germany, E. Svoboda; and in the United States, Rev. J Fořt, Rev. F. Čech, Rev. Václav Vojta, Rev. Josef Vaněk and others. In 1941 Rev. and Mrs. M. Joe Novak and Ota Vozeh

Ruby Mikulencak

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missionaries. After World War II a number of changes came about, chief of which was the anglicizing transition in all the churches. Young men and women establishing new homes felt the need for more English and a closer integration into the life of the community. A further change was the closing of the doors of Czechoslovakia to missionary work because of the political situation there: support of missionary work was blocked by the new government. In the course of time the Czechoslovak Convention saw the great need in the little country of Haiti, and started supporting Rev. C.S. Kelly. Other supported missions: •In Yugoslavia—native ministers and the seminary at Novi Sad. •In Ghana—Ruby Mikulencak, now SIM Ghana Director •Tract Ministry—Joe Novak •Fellowship Missions—V. Hromádka •TWR broadcasts in Monte Carlo— Otta Vožeh, Rev. Robert Poloha, Jozef Gabor •HCJB broadcasts in Ecuador, South America—Georgina Gonzalez •Slavic Mission—Rev. Vlado Čanji in Slovakia •In Czech Republic—Mark and Gretchen Potma •In Kenya—Dan and Dita Poenaru Natasha Laurinc 

Evan became the missionaries of this organization, working in a number of Wisconsin Czechoslovak settlements. The Czechoslovak Baptist Convention had almost three thousand members and twenty -five pastors, and was supporting sixteen

      Vol 37 No 3, 11 

Mark and Gretchen Potma Family


Misijní práce

P

ři zkoumání historie konvence mi začalo ze stránek probleskovat jedno slovo. Tím slovem byla misie. Je obdivuhodné kolik lidí z řad konvence slyšelo volání a odešlo na misijní pole. Konvence sdružovala velmi schopné a vzdělané kazatele i misionáře s potřebným vybavením pro misijní práci. Několik kazatelů dosáhlo vysokého vzdělání. Během devatenácti let existence konvence podporovala své misionáře kaz. K. Čermáka, kaz. J. Dvořáka, kaz. Kadlece, kaz. J. Rotha, kaz. K. Jersáka, kaz. T. Macháčka, kaz. Mikulenčáka, kaz. J.P. Pirocha, kaz. H. Slaninu, kaz. J. Šturmana, kaz. V. Hlada, kaz. F. Brdlíka, kaz. Dr. V.J. Vítu, kaz. J.J. Šeredu, Katarínu Hudáčkovou v Československu; v Polsku kaz. V. Volanského a kaz. E. Volanského; v Německu E. Svobodu; ve Spojených státech kaz. J. Fořta, kaz. F. Čecha, kaz. V. Vojtu, kaz. J. Vaňka a další. V roce 1941 se kaz. M. Evan a jeho manželka stali misionáři konvence, kteří pracovali mezi několika československými osadami. Československá baptistická konvence měla téměř tři tisíce členů s pětadvaceti kazately a podporovala šestnáct misionářů. Po druhé světové válce došlo k několika změnám, zvláště to byl přechod na angličtinu ve všech sborech. Mladí lidé zakládající rodiny cítili potřebu angličtiny a přizpůsobení se americkému způsobu života. Další změnou bylo uzavření dvěří do Československa pro misijní práci

Ruby Mikulencak in Ghana

Joe Novak

Další podporované misie: •v Jugoslávii—místní kazatele a seminář v Novém Sadě •v Ghaně—Ruby Mikulenčákovou, nyní ředitelku SIM (misijní společnosti) v Ghaně •traktátová misie—Josef Novák •misijní associace—V. Hromádka •TWR rozhlasové vysílání v Monte Carlu—Otta Vožeh, kaz. Robert Poloha, Jozef Gábor •HCJB rozhlasové vysílání v Jižní Americe—Jiřinka Gonzálezová •slovanská misie—kaz. Vl. Čanji na Slovensku •v České republice—Mark a Gretchen Potmovi •v Keni—Dan a Dita Poenarovi Nataša Laurincová 

v důsledku politické situace po roce 1948: podpora misijní práce byla novou vládou zablokována. Po čase viděla československá konvence velkou potřebu v malé zemi Haiti a začala podporovat místního kaz. C.S. Kellyho. Rev. Vlado Čanji


The Poenarus

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CZECHOSLOVAK BAPTIST CONVENTION OF THE USA AND CANADA Convention time line from year to year, showing the place of the Convention, giving the names of the elected officers in the following order: PRESIDENT – VICE PRESIDENT – SECRETARY – TREASURER, and mentioning some items of interest, theme and text if available.

1909

Chronologický přehled konvence uvádějící místo konání a jména zvolených pracovníků v následujícím pořadí: PREZIDENT – VICEPREZIDENT – TAJEMNÍK – POKLADNÍK a zmiňující některé zajímavosti, dostupná tématá a texty.

1st—CHICAGO, IL, First Bohemian Baptist Church Rev. Václav Králíček, Rev. Matthias Šteuček, Rev. K. Střelec, Rev. Václav Hlad 12 churches—about 600 members 12 sborů—přibližně 600 členů

1910

2nd—DETROIT, MI No record available—Žádné informace

1911

No record available—Žádné informace

1912

3rd—POUND, WI, Polish Baptist Church

18

Rev. Matthias Šteuček, Rev. August Meeris, Rev. Václav Hlad, Ján Valaštiak Decided to publish Slovak ZORA, monthly, Editor Ján Kana Přijato rozhodnutí k vydávání slovenského měsíčníku ZORA

      Vol 37 No 3, 11 

Rev. Václav Hlad

The First Czechoslovak Baptist Convention in 1909


1913

4th—CREIGHTON, PA, First Slovak Baptist Church

1914

5th—CHICAGO, IL, Emanuel Bohemian Baptist Church

1915

6th—NEWARK, NJ

1916

7th—CLEVELAND, OH

1917

8th—MONACA, PA

1918

9th—DETROIT, MI

Rev. Václav Hlad, Rev. P. Bednár, Ján Kána, J. Valaštiak

Rev. Václav Hlad, Rev. P. Bednár, Rev. A.P. Slabey, Ján Valaštiak

Rev. Václav Hlad, Rev. Matthias. Šteuček, Rev. K. Brázda, Ján Valaštiak The Slavic Baptist Training School established in Chicago Založen Slovanský baptistické učitelský ústav v Chicagu

Robert Dvorak at the grave of his grandfather Rev. Vaclav Hlad

History to 101st Year

Rev. P. Bednár, Rev. A.P. Slabey, Rev. Anton Hok, Ján Valaštiak

Rev. A.P. Slabey, Rev. P. Brázda, Rev. B. Mrázek, Ján Valaštiak 13 Churches, 1158 members 13 sborů, 1158 členů

Rev. P. Brázda, Rev. Matthias Šteuček, Mr. Krajčocič, Ján Valaštiak

June 11–15, 1916, Cleveland

1919

10th—CHICAGO, IL, First Bohemian Baptist Church

1920

11th—CLEVELAND, OH

Rev. P. Brázda, Rev. Anton Hok, Rev. B. Mrázek, Ján Valaštiak

Rev. Dr. V.J. Víta, Rev. Anton Hok, Rev. J.J. Pavelda, Ján Valaštiak


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CZECHOSLOVAK BAPTIST CONVENTION OF THE USA AND CANADA

1921

12th—RICHMOND, VA

1922

13th—MINNEAPOLIS, MN, First Slovak Baptist Church

1923

14th—CICERO, IL

1924


20

Rev. Dr. V. J. Víta, Rev. K. Brázda, Rev. J. J. Pavelda, F. Leiner The Slavic Baptist Training School transfered to East Orange, N. J., as Czechoslovak Department of International Baptist Seminary Slovanský baptistický učitelský ústav převeden do East Orange, N. J., jako Československá sekce Mezinárodního baptistického semináře 20 Churches, 1799 members—20 sborů, 1799 členů

No record available about officers Žádná jména pracovníků k dispozici Periodical PRAVDA accepted as the conventional journal Periodikum PRAVDA přijaté jako konvenční časopis Support of missionary work in Czechoslovakia begun Počátek podpory misiononářů v Československu

Rev. Š.J. Herban, Rev. Karel Dušek, Rev. Edward Čatloš, F. Leiner Czechoslovak Baptist Women’s Union organized Založen Odbor sester National Baptist Young People’s Union organized on November 18, 1923 18. listopadu 1923 založen Národní odbor baptistické mládeže

National Baptist Young People’s Union of America he National Baptist Young People’s Union was organized on November 18, 1923. Rev. G. M. Hadraba was the first president. On July 5, 1924, the first young people’s convention presented its program in Cleveland, Ohio. At the Convention a constitution and the name, “The Czechoslovak Baptist Young People’s Union of America” were adopted. The motto was, “Jesus Christ needs the young people, and the young people need Jesus Christ; the church needs young people and the young people need church.” The Young People’s Union was divided into four geographical districts: Western (Chicago and vicinity), Central (Cleveland and vicinity), Eastern (Richmond, New York and vicinity), and Northern (Minneapolis and vicinity). The literary organ of this group was Convention Flashes, started in 1939, later (1941) called Our Task. The last record about the Young People’s Union is from 1954. Daniel Chipka was the president at that time. Natasha Laurinc

T

Rev. Josef Vaněk, Rev. J.J. Pavelda, Rev. Edward Čatloš, F. Leiner Shelter UTULNA for elderly suggested by V. Hlad; accepted Návrh V. Hlada na ÚTULNU pro přestárlé; přijaté

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1925

16th—NEW PRAGUE, MN

1926

17th—CHICAGO, IL, Emanuel Bohemian Baptist Church

Rev. Karel Bohatec, Rev. G.M. Hadraba, Rev. E. Čatloš, F. Leiner

Rev. Karel Bohatec, Rev. Jaroslav J. Zmrhal, Rev. Edward Čatloš, A. Sládek

1927

18th—EAST ORANGE, NJ

1928

19th—DETROIT, MI

Rev. Jaroslav J. Zmrhal, Rev. P. Kubík, Rev. G.M. Hadraba, A. Sládek New hymnal PÍSNĚ A CHVALOZPĚVY published Vydání nových zpěvníků PÍSNĚ A CHVALOZPĚVY WINDSOR Church accepted into the Convention Windsorský sbor přijat do konvence

Theme: Baptists—Baptisté Rev. Jaroslav J. Zmrhal, Rev. J. J. Pavelda, Rev. G.M. Hadraba, A. Tvarožek Purchase of the shelter UTULNA in New Prague, MI, for $13,000 Zakoupení ÚTULNY v New Prague, Minn., za $13,000


      Vol 37 No 3, 11

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1929

20th—CAMPBELL, OH

1930

21st—CHICAGO, IL, First Bohemian Baptist Church

1931

22nd—NEW PRAGUE, MN

1932

23rd—CLEVELAND, OH

1933

24th—CHICAGO, IL, Trinity Bohemian Baptist Church

22

Rev. P. Kubík, Rev. J.J. Pavelda, Rev. G.M. Hadraba, A. Tvarožek

Rev. P. Kubík, Rev. Frank T. Brdlík, Rev. G.M. Hadraba, A. Tvarožek Slavná Naděje combined with Pravda as PRAVDA A SLAVNÁ NADĚJE Slavná Naděje spojena s Pravdou jako PRAVDA A SLAVNÁ NADĚJE

František Dojáček, Rev. J.J. Pavelda, Rev. Edward Čatloš, K. Sekava By-laws accepted—Přijetí stanov Emanuel baseball team

František Dojáček, Rev. Karel Bohatec, Rev. Edward Čatloš, K. Sekava

Rev. Dr. V.J. Víta, Rev. Michal D. Hiben, Rev. G.M. Hadraba, K. Sekava

      Vol 37 No 3, 11 



1934

25th—MINNEAPOLIS, MN

1935

26th—CAMPBELL, OH

1936

27th—CHICAGO, IL

1937

28th—CHICAGO, IL, Emanuel Slovak—New Covenant Baptist Church

1938


1939

30th—CHICAGO, IL, Emanuel Bohemian-Lawndale Baptist Church

Rev. Dr. V.J. Víta, Rev. B. Mrázek, Rev. G.M. Hadraba, K. Sekava

Rev. Dr. Josef Novotný, Rev. Michael D. Hiben, Rev. Edward Čatloš, K. Sekava

No record available—Žádné informace

Rev. Michael D. Hiben

Rev. Michael D. Hiben, Rev. Jan Fořt, Rev. Edward Čatloš, K. Sekava

Rev. Michael D. Hiben, Rev. Frank T. Brdlík, Rev. Edward Čatloš, K. Sekava

Rev. Frank T. Brdlík, Rev. Vincent P. Stupka, Rev. Edward Čatloš, K. Sekava


      Vol 37 No 3, 11

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1940

31st—EAST ORANGE, NJ

1941

32nd—MINNEAPOLIS, MN, Medicine Lake Camp

1942

33rd—CLEVELAND, OH

1943

34th—CHICAGO, IL, Emanuel Bohemian-Lawndale Bapt. Church

1944

35th—AKRON, OH

1945

Rev. Vincent P. Stupka, Rev. Jan Fořt, Rev. Edward Čatloš, K. Sekava 35 churches in the Convention representing three thousand members Konvence sdružuje 35 sborů, představující tři tisíce členů Subsidiary Fund for the distressed in CSSR established—Pomocný fond pro trpící v ČSSR Victory Fund for mission work established—Založen Fond vítězství k šírení misijní práce

Rev. Vincent P. Stupka, Rev. Joseph J. Shereda, Rev. Edward Čatloš, K. Sekava International Baptist Seminary in East Orange, NJ, closed Uzavření Mezinárodního baptistického semináře

Rev. Jan Fořt, Rev. Josef Zajíček, Rev. Edward Čatloš, P. Hanko

Rev. Jan Fořt, Katarína Hudáčková, Rev. Edward Čatloš, Stanley Dvořák

A.P. Tell, Rev. F. Čech, Rev. Edward Čatloš, Stanley Dvořák

36th—CHICAGO, IL, First Bohemian Baptist Church Theme: Thru Planting the Word to Harvest the Souls Setbou Slova ke sklizni duší Text: Acts 6;7 A.P. Tell, Dr. Karel Marek, Rev. Edward Čatloš, Stanley Dvořák Toronto church accepted into the Convention Torontský sbor přijat do konvence

G

od in His infinite grace has placed His name upon a people who, for one reason or another, left their beloved homeland of Czechoslovakia to take up a new life in a strange and sometimes hostile land. The historical account of these refugees from poverty and oppression cannot here be told; nor is it possible in the allotted space to tell of the individual groups of Baptists that sprang up in many large concentrations of Czechoslovak population in urban and rural communities. Missions successively became churches and ultimately these churches spontaneously felt the need for a larger, more binding kind of fellowship and missionary outreach. Out of this need was born the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of North America.

John D. Michael, 50th Anniversary of the Convention

Bible Camp, Medicine Lake, Minneapolis, MN

24

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1946


1947

38th—RICHMOND, VA

1948

39th—GREEN LAKE, WI

1949

40th—MINITONAS, MB, First session of the Convention in Canada

1950

41st—CLEVELAND, OH

Theme: Christians in Progress—Rostoucí křesťan A.P. Tell, Rev. John P. Piroch, Rev. Edward Čatloš, Stanley Dvořák 35,701 lb of food and clothing sent to Czechoslovakia ($11,184.69) Zásilka jídla a šatstva do Československa, 35 701 lb v hodnotě $11 184,69

Rev. Joseph J. Shereda, Rev. F. Brdlík, Rev. Edward Čatloš, Stanley Dvořák New hymnal PÍSNĚ DUCHOVNÍ published (seven thousands sent to Czechoslovakia) Vydán nový zpěvník PÍSNĚ DUCHOVNÍ (sedm tisíc výtisků zasláno do Československa)

Theme: He That Winneth Souls Is Wise—Moudrý je ten, kdo získá duši svou Rev. Joseph J. Shereda, Rev. Michael Evan, Rev. Edward Čatloš, Stanley Dvořák

Theme: Christians and Present Time—Křesťan a současná doba Rev. Michael Evan, Rev. Dr. Harry, B. Gray, Rev. Dr. Karel Marek, Stanley Dvořák

Theme: Prayer—Modlitba, Text: Luke 11:1 Rev. Michael Evan, Rev. Andrew Kmetko, Rev. Vincent P. Stupka, Stanley Dvořák Support of missionary work in Czechoslovakia blocked by new government Podpora misijní práce v Československu zastavena novou vládou New missionary effort started in Haiti—Podpora misie zaměřena na Haiti


Rev. Michael Evan

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1950—Cleveland, OH


1951

42nd—CEDAR LAKE, IN

1952

43rd—MINNEAPOLIS, MN

1953

44th—BEULAH BEACH, OH

26

Theme: Personal Evangelism—Osobní evangelizace, Text: Psalm 126:5 Rev. Andrew Kmetko, Paul Struhárik, Rev. Vincent P. Stupka, Stanley Dvořák

Theme: Put This Money to Work Until I Come Back—Hospodařte s tím, dokud nepřijdu Text: Luke 19:13 Rev. Dr. Karel Marek, Paul Struhárik, Rev. Vincent P. Stupka, Stanley Dvořák

Theme: Sovereignty of Jesus Christ—Svrchovanost Ježíše Krista Text: Philippians 2:11 Rev. Dr. Karel Marek, Paul Struhárik, Rev. Vincent P. Stupka, Stanley Dvořák

      Vol 37 No 3, 11 



1954

45th—TORONTO, ON

1955

46th—CHICAGO, IL, First Bohemian Baptist Church

1956

47th—WINDSOR, ON

1957

48th—CAMPBELL, OH

1958

49th—CLEVELAND, OH, Corlett Ave.

Theme: Revival of a Nation—Obnovení národa Text: 2 Chronicles 7:14, Proverbs 14:34 Rev. D. Evan, S. Struhárik, Rev. Vincent P. Stupka, John A. Jeren

Theme: Unity in Christ—Jednota v Kristu Text: Ephesians 4:4–6 Rev. D. Evan, Paul Struhárik, Rev. Vincent P. Stupka, John A. Jeren

Theme: The Holiness of Believers—Svatost věřících Text: 1 Peter 1:16 Rev. Frank T. Brdlík, Rev. P. Kubík, Rev. Vincent P. Stupka, John A. Jeren

Theme: I Want to Know Christ—Chci poznat Ježíše Text: Philippians 3:8 Rev. Frank T. Brdlík, Rev. P. Kubík, Rev. Vincent P. Stupka, John A. Jeren

Theme: Christ the Center of His Church—Ježíš centrem své církve Text: Revelation 1:11–13a Sam Struhárik, Rev. John D. Michael, Rev. Vincent, P. Stupka, John A. Jeren


A

t the Convention of 1914, held at the Emmanuel Bohemian Baptist Church of Chicago, it was decided that a seminary be founded for the training of young men for the ministry. Accordingly, the school was organized in 1915 in Chicago, and called The Slavic Baptist Training School. It opened with an enrollment of fourteen students – nine Poles and five Czechoslovaks. In 1921 the school was merged into the International Baptist Seminary of East Orange, New Jersey.


      Vol 37 No 3, 11

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1959

50th—CLEVELAND, OH, Scranton Rd. Baptist Church

1960

51st—CAMPBELL, OH

1961

52nd—WINDSOR, ON

1962

53rd—MINITONAS, MB

1963

Theme: Proclaim Liberty—Hlásání svobody Text: Leviticus 25:10 Sam Struhárik, Rev. John D. Michael, Rev. Andrew Kmetko, John A. Jeren Golden Anniversary of the Convention Zlaté výročí konvence

Rev. Andrew Kmetko


Theme: Heaven–Our Hope — Nebe–naše naděje Text: Hebrews 11:16 Rev. John D. Michael, Rev. Josef Novák, Rev. Andrew Kmetko, John A. Jeren

Theme: Our Specialties—Naše zvláštnosti Text: Gal. 3:27 Rev. John D. Michael, Rev. Josef Novák, Rev. Andrew Kmetko, John A. Jeren

Theme: God’s People—Boží lid Text: 1 Peter 2:9 Rev. John D. Michael, Rev. Josef Novák, Rev. Andrew Kmetko, John A. Jeren

Dr. John D. Michael and Rev. Daniel Widlicka

54th—CHICAGO, IL, Emanuel Slovak – New Covenant Baptist Church Theme: Immutable Christ in a Changing World Neměnitelný Kristus v měnícím se světě Text: Hebrews 13:8 Rev. Josef Novák, Rev. F. Brdlík, Rev. Andrew Kmetko, John A. Jeren Rev. Frank T. Brdlík

28

      Vol 37 No 3, 11 



1964

55th—UNION CITY, PA

1965

56th—TORONTO, ON, Czechoslovak Baptist Church

1966


1967

58th—MINITONAS, MB , First Czech Baptist Church

1968

59th—CAMPBELL, OH

1969

60th—UNION CITY, PA

Theme: Evangelization–Forward with Christ — Evangelizace–vpřed s Kristem Text: John 3:16 Rev. Josef Novák, Rev. Frank T. Brdlík, Rev. Andrew Kmetko, John A. Jeren

Theme: Hold to the Word of Life—Držte se Slova života Text: 2 Timothy 3:15–16 Rev. Josef Novák, Rev. F. Brdlík, Rev. Andrew Kmetko, John A. Jeren

Theme: Fellowship of Joy—Radostné obecenství Text: Philip. 4:4 Rev. Frank T. Brdlík, Rev. Josef Novák, Rev. Andrew Kmetko, John A. Jeren

Theme: Repentance, Obedience, Mission—Pokání, poslušnost, misie Text: Book of Jonah Rev. Frank T. Brdlík, Rev. Josef Novák, Rev. Andrew Kmetko, Rev. Jan P. Piroch

Theme: Church Today—The Importance of the Church, Revival of the Church, Responsibility of the Church Dnešní církev—Důležitost církve, Obnovení církve, Zodpovědnost církve Text: Matthew 16:18 Rev. J.N. Karenko, Rev. Josef Novák, Rev. Andrew Kmetko, Rev. Jan P. Piroch Prayers for Czechoslovakia occupied by Red Army Modlitby za Československo okupované Rudou armádou

T

o ask the question, “What has been done in and through the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention?” is to solicit the answer: “Far more than the world will ever know.” Thousands of lives have been transformed. Churches that have successfully made the transition are now carrying on missionary work both in this parent organization and in the fellowship of the American, Canadian and Southern Baptist Conventions. Literally dozens of dedicated and trained Christian leaders have come out of these churches. They continue to serve Christ in the capacity of teachers, professors, directors of Christian education, missionaries, and ministers. Also, in a natural course of events, a host of laymen have assumed places of service and responsibility in other churches and fields of the Kingdom of God. John D. Michael, 50th Anniversary of the Convention

Theme: Home—Domov Text: Deuteronomy 6:4–7 Rev. J.N. Karenko, Robert Karhan, Rev. Andrew Kmetko, Rev. Jan P. Piroch Guest: Rev. J.R. Pierre, Haiti Host: kazatel J.R. Piere z Haiti Robert Karhan


      Vol 37 No 3, 11

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1970

61st—TORONTO, ON, Czechoslovak Baptist Church

1971

62nd—MINITONAS, MB, First Czech Baptist Church

1972

1973

1974

Theme: Revival—Obnovení Text: 2 Chronicles 7:14 Rev. J.N. Karenko, Rev. D. Kolman, Rev. Josef Novák, John A. Jeren

Theme: Christians as Witnesses—Křesťané svědky Text: Acts 1:8 Rev. J.N. Karenko, Rev. Daniel Widlička, Rev. Josef Novák, John A. Jeren Ota Vožeh reporting about TWR in Monte Carlo Zpráva o TWR v Monte Carlu, Ota Vožeh

Toronto church

63rd—CAMPBELL, OH Theme: Such a Great Salvation—Takové spasení Text: Hebrews 2: 2–3 Rev. J.N. Karenko, Rev. Daniel Widlička, Rev. Josef Novák, John A. Jeren Guest speaker: Joe Morone Hlavní řečník: Joe Morone

John Jeren Sr.

64th—CLEVELAND, OH, Scranton Rd. Baptist Church Theme: I Am Sending You—Posílám vás Text: John 20:21 Rev. Danidel Widlička, Rev. J.N. Karenko, Mária Schounová, John A. Jeren Ota Vožeh reporting about his work in TWR in Monte Carlo Ota Vožeh podal zprávu o své práci v T.W.R. v Monte Carlu

Dvorak and Sivulka

65th—WINDSOR, ON, Grace Baptist Church Theme: Children of God: Competent, Participant, Abandonment Boží děti: Způsobilé, spoluúčastné, odevzdané Text: 1 John 3:1–3 Rev. Henry F. Boubelík, Rev. Daniel Widlička, Rev. Josef Novák, John A. Jeren Title of Pravda a Slavná Naděje changed to SLAVNÁ NADĚJE Název Pravda a Slavná Naděje změněn na SLAVNÁ NADĚJE Jeren and Gregor

30

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1974—First Czech Baptist Church Minitonas, MB


1975

1976

66th—UNION CITY, PA Theme: God’s Men Who Helped Change the World Boží muži, kteří pomohli změnit svět Text: Isaiah 6:8 Rev. Henry F. Boubelík, Rev. Daniel Widlička, Rev. Josef Novák, John A. Jeren

Rev. and Mrs. Zeman

67th—MINITONAS, MB, First Czech Baptist Church Theme: This We believe—Tomu věříme Text: John 6:69 Rev. Henry F. Boubelík, Rev. Daniel Widlička, Rev. Josef Novák, John A. Jeren Support of missionary work in Haiti transferred to TWR in Monte Carlo Misijní podpora z Haiti převedena na TWR v Monte Carlu


Florian and Barbara Manas

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1977


1978

69th—CAMPBELL, OH

1979

32

Theme: The More Aboundant Life—Hojnější život Text: John 10:10 Rev. Henry F. Boubelík, Rev. Daniel Widlička, Rev. Josef Novák, John A. Jeren

Theme: Stewards of the Grace of God—Správci milosti Boží Text: 1 Peter 4:10 Rev. Henry F. Boubelík, Rev. Daniel Widlička, Rev. Josef Novák, John A. Jeren Executive Board elected for two years, next elections to be in 1980 Výkonný výbor zvolen na dva roky, příští volby určeny na rok 1980

70th—CLEVELAND, OH, Scranton Rd. Baptist Church Theme: Redeem the Time—Vykupujte čas Text: Ephesians 5:16 Rev. Henry F. Boubelík, Rev. Daniel Widlička, Rev. Josef Novák, John A. Jeren Seventy years of the Convention, no elections Sedmdesáté výročí konvence, bez voleb Title Slavná Naděje changed to GLORIOUS HOPE - SLAVNÁ NADĚJE Název Slavná Naděje upraven na GLORIOUS HOPE - SLAVNÁ NADĚJE Guest: Otakar Vožeh, TWR Host: Otakar Vožeh, TWR

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from left: Ann Hala, Mary and Joe Schoun, Leo Hala

John Karenko


1980

71st—MINITONAS, MB, First Czech Baptist Church

1981

72nd—CHICAGO, IL, Trinity Baptist Church

1982

Theme: The Love of Christ Constraineth Us—Kristova láska nás zavazuje Text: 2 Corinthians 5:14 Rev. Henry F. Boubelík, Rev. Daniel Widlička, George Sommer, John A. Jeren Guests at the Convention: Rev. Dr. Pavel Titěra, Rev. Stanislav Švec and Rev. D. Šaling, who came from Czechoslovakia as delegates to the World Congress in Toronto Hosté konvence: kazatel Dr. Pavel Titěra, kazatel Stanislav Švec a kazatel D. Šaling, delegáti z Československa na Světovém kongresu v Torontě

Theme: Can We Wait? Arise...Go and Cry Můžeme prodlévat? Vstaňte...jděte a volejte Text: John 4:35, Jonah 1:2 Rev. Henry F. Boubelík, Rev. Daniel Widlička, George Sommer, John A. Jeren No elections—Bez voleb

Dr. Pavel Titěra


Dr. Zeman with Dr. and Mrs. Titěra

73rd—WINDSOR, ON, Grace Baptist Church Theme: He That Winneth Souls is Wise—Kdo je moudrý, ten duše získává Text: Proverbs 11:30 Rev. Henry F. Boubelík, Rev. Daniel Widlička, George Sommer, John A. Jeren Guests at the Convention: Rev. and Mrs J. Kriška and Rev. F. Ciesar from Czechoslovakia Hosté konvence: kazatel J. Kriška s manželkou a kazatel F. Ciesar z Československa Later in the year Rev. and Mrs. H.F. Boubelík, Rev. D. Widlička and G. Sommer visited Baptist churches and were guests of the Baptist Convention in Czechoslovakia Koncem roku kazatel H.F. Boubelík s manželkou, kazatel D. Widlička a G. Sommer byli hosty na konferenci Bratrské jednoty baptistů a navštívili baptistické sbory v Československu


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1983

74th—CAMPBELL, OH Theme: Walking in the Light—Chození ve světle Text: 1. John 1:7 Rev. Henry F. Boubelík, Rev. Daniel Widlička, George Sommer, John A. Jeren No elections—Bez voleb

1984


1985

76th—HATCH HALOW, PA

34

Toronto church

Theme: The Entrance of the Word Giveth Light—Tvé slovo s sebou světlo přináší Text: Psalm 119:130 Rev. Henry F. Boubelík, Rev. Daniel Widlička, George Sommer, John A. Jeren New position: Rev. Miloš Šolc, vice president for Canada Nová funkce: kazatel Miloš Šolc, viceprezident pro Kanadu Seventy-fifth Anniversary of the Convention—Sedmdesáté páté výročí konvence 10 churches in the Convention—Konvence zahrnuje 10 sborů

Theme: The Sovereignty of God—Boží svrchovanost Text: Psalm 139 Rev. Henry F. Boubelík, Rev. Daniel Widlička, George Sommer, John A. Jeren Rev. M. Šolc, vice president of Canada Guest at the Convention: Rev. J. Šperl from Czechoslovakia Hosté konvence: kazatel J. Šperl z Československa

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1986

77th—MINITONAS, MB, First Czech Baptist Church Theme: You Did Not Choose Me, But I Chose You to Go... Vy jste si mne nezvolili, ale já jsem vás vybral, abyste šli... Text: John 15:16 Rev. Henry F. Boubelík, Rev. Daniel Widlička, George Sommer, John A. Jeren Canadian Office open: Rev. Miloš Šolc, Stanley Hynek Otevřen úřad v Kanadě: kazatel Miloš Šolc, Stanislav Hynek Guest at the Convention: Rev. Pavol Kondač from Czechoslovakia Hosté konvence: kazatel Pavol Kondač z Československa

1987


1988

79th—WINDSOR, ON, Grace Baptist Church

1989

Daniel Widlicka

Theme: Enlarging Our Missionary Vision—Rozšíření našeho misijního pohledu Text: Isaiah 54:2 Rev. Daniel Widlička, Rev. Robert L. Mobley, George Sommer, John A. Jeren Canadian Office: Rev. Miloš Šolc, Stanley Hynek The Henry F. Boubelik Missionary Trust Fund established Založen misijní fond Henryho F. Boubelíka

Theme: Know the Word! Live the Word! Share the Word! Znej Slovo! Žij Slovo! Sdílej Slovo! Text: 2 Tim. 3:16–17 Rev. Dr. John D. Michael, Rev. Robert L. Mobley, George Sommer, John A. Jeren Canadian Office: Rev. Josef Novák, Jerry Rand, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests at the Convention: Rev. Jan Pospíšil, president of Czechoslovak Baptist Union, and his wife Hosté konvence: kazatel Jan Pospíšil, prezident Československé jednoty baptistů, s manželkou

Milan Lev, Joe Novak, Jerry Rand, Josef Hynek and Stanislav Hynek

80th—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Theme: Making God Known... In the Beginning God... Boží dílo známo... Na počátku Bůh... Text: Gen. 1:1 Rev. Robert L. Mobley, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, John A. Jeren Canadian Office: Rev. Josef Novák, Jerry Rand, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests at the Convention: Rev. Jaroslav Pospíšil and his wife Hosté konvence: kazatel Jaroslav Pospíšil s manželkou John Jeren Jr. and Sr.


      Vol 37 No 3, 11

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1989—Philippi, WV


1990

81st—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Theme: Thus Says the Lord: I Have Called You by Name–You Are Mine Toto praví Hospodin: povolal jsem tě jménem tvým–patříš mi! Text: Isaiah 43:1 Rev. Robert L. Mobley, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, John A. Jeren Canadian Office: Rev. Josef Novák, Jerry Rand, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac The John and Emily Michael Memorial Scholarship Fund established Založen Pamětní stipendijní fond Johna a Emily Michaelových Guests at the Convention: Martin, Jindřich and Zdeněk Pospíšil—The Pospíšil Trio Hosté konvence: Martin, Jindřich a Zdeněk Pospíšilovi—Trio Pospíšilových

1991

82nd—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College

1992

83rd—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College

36

George Sommer

Theme: Jesus Through Many Eyes: Who Do You Say I Am? Ježíš v očích druhých: A za koho mě máte vy? Text: Mat. 16:15 Rev. Robert L. Mobley, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, John A. Jeren Canadian Office: Rev. Josef Novák, Jerry Rand, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac

Theme: Things that remain. I know that everything God does will endure forever; nothing can be added to it and nothing taken from it. To, co zůstává. Vím, že vše, co Bůh dělá, trvá navěky; nic k tomu nelze přidat ani z toho nic odejmout. Text: Eccalesiastes 3:14a Rev. Robert L. Mobley, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, John A. Jeren Canadian Office: Rev. Josef Novák, Jerry Rand, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests at the Convention: Dave Dravecky, Rev. Juraj Kohút and his wife Hosté konvence: Dave Dravecky, kazatel Juraj Kohút s manželkou       Vol 37 No 3, 11 

Robert Dvorak

Joe Novak


1992—Philippi, WV

1990—Philippi, WV



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1993

84th—MINITONAS, MB, First Czech Baptist Church

1994

85th—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College

1995

Theme: Where Have We Been?—Odkud jdeme? Text: 1. Samuel 7:12b Rev. Robert L. Mobley, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, John A. Jeren Canadian Office: Rev. Josef Novák, Jerry Rand, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac

Theme: Where Are We Now?—Kde jsme nyní? Text: 1. Samuel 7:12b Rev. Robert L. Mobley, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, John A. Jeren Canadian Office: Rev. Bruce Snurr, Jerry Rand, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests at the Convention: Rev. Juraj Pribula and his wife Hosté konvence: kazatel Juraj Pribula s manželkou

Dr. Robert Mobley receives Honorary Divinity Doctor Degree

86th—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Theme: Where Are We Going? Kam jdeme? Text: 1 Samuel 7:12b Rev. Robert L. Mobley, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, John A. Jeren Canadian Office: Rev. Bruce Snurr, Jerry Rand, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Dr. Robert Mobley, Mrs. and Mr. Dravecky

38

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1996

87th—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Theme: How Do We Get There?—Jak se tam dostanem? Text: 1. Samuel 7:12b Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Bruce Snurr, Jerry Rand, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests at the Convention: Rev. Petr Červinský and his wife Hosté konvence: kazatel Petr Červinský s manželkou Rev. R.L. Mobley awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Alderson-Broaddus College Udělen čestný doktorát teologie univerzitou Alderson-Broaddus College kazateli R.L. Mobleymu

1997

1998

88th—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Theme: Best News—A Gospel for the World and Salvation to Us Největší zpráva—Světu evangelium a nám spasení Text: Romans 15:1,2 Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Bruce Snurr, Jerry Rand, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests at the Convention: Vladimír Dvořák and Růžena Dvořáková-Žiaranová Hosté konvence: Vladimír Dvořák a Růžena Dvořáková-Žiaranová

Paul Struharik

Vladimír Dvořák

89th—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Theme: We Have Seen His Glory—Viděli jsme Jeho slávu Text: John 1:14b Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Ján Banko, Jerry Rand, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests at the Convention: Rev. Dobroslav Stehlík and his wife Hosté konvence: kazatel Dobroslav Stehlík s manželkou Rev. Dobroslav Stehlík and his wife


      Vol 37 No 3, 11

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1999


2000

91st—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College

2001

92nd—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College

Theme: To Live as Spiritual Christians—Žít Duchem Text: Galatians 2:22–25 Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Ján Banko, Jerry Rand, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Rev. Andrew Kmetko awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree Udělen čestný doktorát teologie kazateli Andrew Kmetkovi Guests: George Cooper, TWR director for Central–East Europe, Lubomir Vyhnánek, TWR director of Slovakia Hosté: George Cooper, ředitel TWR pro středovýchodní Evropu, Lubomir Vyhnánek, ředitel TWR na Slovensku

Theme: Our hope for Living in the New Millenium—Naše naděje v novém mileniu Text: 1 John 4:4b Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Ján Banko, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests: George Cooper (TWR Europe), Jan Victorín (TWR CZ), Jiří a Ludmila Dedecius (book Guarded City) Otilia Alac Hosté: George Cooper (TWR v Evropě), Jan Victorín (TWR CZ), Jiří a Ludmila Dedeciovi (kniha Střežené město)

Theme: Christ‘s Expectations of Us—Co od nás Kristus očekává Text: John 14:15 Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Ján Banko, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests: TWR – Jan Victorin (CZ), Lubomír Vyhnánek (SK), George Cooper (Europe) Hosté: TWR – Jan Victorin (CZ), Lubomír Vyhnánek (SK), George Cooper (Europe) Jan Victorin, George Cooper, Lubomír Vyhnánek

40

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2002

93rd—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College

2003


A. Kmetko & Matuzalems

History to 101st Year Theme: Lord, to Whom Shall We Go? Pane, ke komu půjdeme? Text: John 6:68b Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Ján Banko, Donna Nesvadba, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests at the Convention: Rev. Jozef Kulačík and his wife George Cooper (TWR Europe) Hosté konvence: kazatel Josef Kulačík s manželkou George Cooper (TWR Europe)

Theme: You’ll Never Walk Alone Nikdy nepůjdete sami Text: Leviticus 26:11,12 Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Ján Banko, Donna Nesvadba, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests at the Convention: The Christian Singing Group Matuzalem - Slavo Kráľ, Daniel Šaling, Daniel Valenta, Dušan Jančula, Peter Rapoš George Cooper( TWR Europe) Hosté konvence: Křesťanská skupina Matuzalem – Slavo Kráľ, Daniel Šaling, Daniel Valenta, Dušan Jančula, Peter Rapoš George Cooper (TWR Europe)


George Cooper

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2004

2005

42

95th—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Theme: Living Power: Power That Is Alive, Power to Make Us Lively Živá moc: Moc, která žije a nás oživuje Text: 2 Timothy 1:7 Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Ján Banko, Donna Nesvadba, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests at the Convention: Luboš and Diana Dzuriak George Cooper (TWR Europe) Hosté konvence: Luboš a Diana Dzuriakovci George Cooper (TWR Europe) Rev. Robert Dvorak awarded an honorary Doctor of Divinity degree from Alderson-Broaddus College Udělen čestný doktorát teologie univerzitou Alderson-Broaddus College kazateli Robertovi Dvorakovi

Bob Dvorak receiving Honorary Divinity Doctor Degree

96th—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Theme: What Is Asked of Us? Co se od nás očekává? Text: Deuteronomy 10:12 Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Ján Banko, Donna Nesvadba, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac       Vol 37 No 3, 11 

Andrew Kmetko receiving Honorary Divinity Doctor Degree



2006

2007

2008

97th—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Theme: Life with God Very Near—Život s Bohem se přiblížil Text: 2 Cor. 6:16b Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Ján Banko, Donna Nesvadba, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests at the Convention: Rev. Jan Titera and his wife George Cooper (TWR Europe) Hosté konvence: kazatel Jan Titěra s manželkou George Cooper (TWR Europe)

Věra and Jan Titěrovi

98th—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Theme: Whoever Is in Christ Is New Kdo je v Kristu, je nové stvoření Text: 2 Cor. 5:17 Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Ján Banko, Donna Nesvadba, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests at the Convention: Rev. Tomas Kriska and his wife Hosté konvence: kazatel Tomáš Kriška s manželkou

Tomáš and Ester Kriškovi

99th—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Theme: Spiritual Wisdom Duchovní moudrost Text: Proverbs 9:10 Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Ján Banko, Donna Nesvadba, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac George Gregor at the general board meeting


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2009

2010

44

100th—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Theme: The Mission Today and Always— Misijní poslání dnes a navždy Text: John 20: 21b Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, George Sommer, George Gregor Canadian Office: Rev. Ján Banko, Donna Nesvadba, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac Guests at the Convention: Dr. Denton Lotz, Dr. Barry Moore, Tim Bailey, Rev. Jan Titěra, Dr. Darko Kraljik Hosté konvence: Dr. Denton Lotz, Dr. Barry Moore, Tim Bailey, kazatel Jan Titěra, Dr. Darko Kraljik

J. Titěra, R. Dvorak, Darko Kraljik at the banquet

101st—PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Theme: The Call God Has Sent Us - To Serve Faithfully and Wait Patiently (I Thessalonians 1:9–10) - To Assume a Fresh Identity with the Lord (Romans 1:1,5-7) - To Use Personal Strengths and Gifts to God’s Glory (I Peter 4:10) - To Final Victory Alongside God (Revelation 17:14) Poslání Bohem svěřené - Věrně sloužit a očekávat trpělivě - Obnovit totožnost s Pánem - Používat vlastní přednosti a dary k slávě Boží - Ke konečnému vítězství po boku Božím Rev. Robert Dvorak, Rev. Josef Novák, Darko Siracki, George Gregor Canadian Office: Donna Nesvadba, Milan Lev, Otilia Alac

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History to 101st Year List of ordained Ministers that were active in the churches of our Convention from its beginning in 1909 up to this date July 9, 2009 Abraham Joseph Adrian George Abdallah George Banko Ján Bastel F. T. Bednár Pavel Bohatec Karel Boubelík Henry F. Brázda Charles Brdlík Frank T. Chipka Daniel Cornell G. Cox Čánji Vl. Čapek N. F. Čatloš Edward Čech Frank Daku Paul Devine Keneth Dowse J. Dvorak, Dr. Robert Dušek A. Dušek Karel Elavský M. S. Evan Daniel Evan Michael Feryance Daniel Fořt Jan Franka Ján Fried Harold Georgoff George Gilbert Jame Gray, Dr. Harry Hadraba George M.

Herban Stephan J. Hibbins S. W. Hiben M. D. Hlad Václav Hnůta M. J. Hok Anton Ibser Henry Karenko John N. Kejř Jan Kmetko, Dr. Andrew Knobloch Adolf Kolman Daniel Kovacs, Dr. Sandor B. Králíček Václav Kralík Vladimír Krivosh Michael Kubík Pavel Lemon Art Manas Florian Mantle Stan Marek, Dr. Karel Matejka J. Matejka M. S. Mazanec Richard McMahon Kenneth Meereis August Michael, Dr. John D. Miksa Ludwik Millard Joseph Mlynár Paul E. Mobley, Dr. Robert Moravský P. Mrázek Bohumil Novák Joseph


Novotný, Dr. Joseph Pavelda J. J. Piroch Ján P. Potter R. Priebe Garth Rotar William Rundus Joseph F. Shereda Joseph J. Shoff, Dr. Donald Shuldes Václav Skokan Paul E. Slabey Andrew Sr. Slabey, Dr. Andew Snurr Bruce Strapon Adam Střelec Karel Stupka Vincent P. Škriečka J. Šolc, Dr. Joseph Šolc Miloš Jr. Šolc Miloš Sr. Šteuček Matej Šturman Ján Švec Stanislav Tuček Teofil Vaněk Josef Víta, Dr. V. J. Vojta, Dr. Václav Whitney R. Widlička Daniel Zajíček Joseph Zeman, Dr. J. K. Zmrhal Jaroslav

      Vol 37 No 3, 11

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T

Periodicals

he first magazine connected to the Convention was Zora (Aurora), published monthly in Slovak. The decision was made at the Slavic Baptist Convention in 1912. Mr. Ján Kana was elected editor. A subscription was 25 cents per year, to Europe 35 cents. This magazine was discontinued in 1919. The same year members of the Convention decided to publish a monthly magazine, Pravda (Truth), linked directly to the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention. The first issue of Pravda was edited in April 1920 by the Bible Circle of the Czechoslovak Baptist Churches of Chicago. In 1922 this magazine was taken over by the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention. In 1927 the magazine had two sections—the Slovak section and the Czech section. In 1929 Pravda was combined with Slavná Naděje (Glorious Hope), a non-denominational paper edited by Dr. V. J. Víta, creating Pravda a Slavná Naděje (Truth and Glorious Hope). Included in the convention magazine was a

1917—Rev. Dr. V.J. Víta started to publish SLAVNÁ NADĚJE

46

      Vol 37 No 3, 11 

section of the literary organ published by the young people (Convention Flashes, started in 1939, later (1941) called Our Task). A number of editors took turn achieving the spiritual, educational and informative reputation of the magazine. In 1974 the title Pravda a Slavná Naděje was changed to Slavná Naděje only. It was decided that the magazine would be published quarterly and all expenses would be covered by the Convention. Since 1977 Slavná Naděje has been published every second month. The title Slavná Naděje was changed to Glorious Hope-Slavná Naděje in 1979. The magazine went through many changes over the years of its existence. The Glorious Hope-Slavná Naděje you are holding in your hands is the result of diligent work by a whole team of people. It is truly the mission tool of The Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada, connecting Czech, Slovak and other Slavic people over the entire world. Natasha Laurinc

2001—GLORIOUS HOPE-SLAVNÁ NADĚJE


Magazine Timeline

P

Časopisy

rvním časopisem ve spojitosti s konvencí byl Zora, který vycházel jednou měsíčně ve slovenštině. Bylo o tom rozhodnuto na Slovanské baptistické konvenci v roce 1912. Redaktorem byl zvolen Ján Kana. Roční předplatné bylo 25 centů, do Evropy 35 centů. V roce 1919 časopis přestal vycházet. Téhož roku se členové konvence rozhodli vydávat měsíčník Pravda, který byl těsné spjatý s Československou baptistickou konvencí. První číslo Pravdy bylo vydáno v dubnu 1920 Biblickým kroužkem československých baptistických sborů v Chicagu. Tento časopis převzala v roce 1922 Československá baptistická konvence. V roce 1927 měl časopis dvě sekce – slovenskou a českou. Ke spojení Pravdy a Slavné naděje, mezidenominačních novin redigovaných Dr. V.J. Vítou, došlo v roce 1929, a tak vznikl časopis Pravda a Slavná Naděje. Svou sekci v konvenčním časopise mělo i mládežnické periodikum (Konvenční záblesky založené v r. 1939 a v r. 1941 nazváné Náš úkol).

1945—Magazine published by young people History of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada

Několik redaktorů se vystřídalo a časopis dosáhl pověsti duchovního, vzdělávacího a informatívního časopisu. V roce 1974 byl z názvu vypuštěn výraz Pravda a časopis se začal jmenovat Slavná Naděje. Bylo také rozhodnuto, že bude vycházet čtvrtletně a všechny náklady budou hrazeny konvencí. Od roku 1977 Slavná naděje vychází každý druhý měsíc. Titul Slavná naděje byl v roce 1979 upraven na Glorious Hope – Slavná naděje. Po dobu své existence časopis prošel mnohými změnami. Glorious Hope – Slavná naděje, kterou držíte v ruce, je výsledkem usilovné práce celého týmu pracovníků. Vskutku je to misijní nástroj Československé baptistické konvence v USA a Kanadě, spojující Čechy, Slováky a další Slovany po celém světě. Nataša Laurincová

2009—GLORIOUS HOPE-SLAVNÁ NADĚJE       Vol 37 No 3, 11

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1912

Slovak ZORA, monthly Editor Ján Kana

1914

Editor Rev. A.P. Slabey

1917

Rev. Dr. V.J. Víta started to publish SLAVNÁ NADĚJE

1920 1922 1926-7 1928 1929

1931-6 1937-8 1941-4 1945-6 1947 1948

Monthly PRAVDA, published by the Bible Circle in Chicago, accepted into the Convention Editor G.M. Hadraba PRAVDA taken over by the Convention Editor Rev. Edward Čatloš Editor Rev. Ján P. Piroch 1912

Editors Rev. K. Brázda, Rev. M.D. Hiben Slavná Naděje combined with Pravda as PRAVDA A SLAVNÁ NADĚJE Editors Rev. K. Brázda, Dr. V.J. Vita, Rev. M.D. Hiben Editors Frank Čech, Dr. V.J. Vita, Rev. M.D. Hiben, Rev. V.P. Stupka Editors Frank Čech and Rev. V.P. Stupka Editors Frank Čech, Rev. V.P. Stupka, Rev. Edward Čatloš Editors Dr. J. Novotný and Rev. J.P. Piroch

1926

1938

Editors Rev. V.P. Stupka and Dr. J. Novotný Editors Rev. V.P. Stupka and Rev. K. Marek Rev. Michael D. Hiben

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1915

      Vol 37 No 3, 11 

Jan Paul Piroch

Antonia Dedic Piroch


Magazine Timeline 1950-1973

Editor Rev. J.P. Piroch

Between October 1973 and October 1974, with the position of editor vacant, publication was interrupted

1974

Title of Pravda a Slavná Naděje changed to SLAVNÁ NADĚJE Editors Rev. J. Novák, Vlado Čanji and Rev. Stanley W. Hibbins Published quarterly, expenses covered by the Convention

1975

Editors Rev. Vlado Čanji and Rev. Stanley W. Hibbins

1977

SLAVNÁ NADĚJE published bi-monthly Mission tool reaching thousands of Czechs, Slovaks and others all over the world

1979

Rev. Vlado Čanji

Title Slavná Naděje changed to GLORIOUS HOPE—SLAVNÁ NADĚJE Editors Rev. Vlado Čanji and Rev. Stanley W. Hibbins Co-editor George Sommer

1981

Editors of Glorious Hope: Rev. Vlado Čanji and Rev. Stanley W. Hibbins Co-editor George Sommer

1986

Special section in Glorious Hope started for children and youth

1988

Editor Rev. Vlado Čanji Assistants Rev. Stan Mantle, Ruth Pístecká Co-editor George Sommer

1989

Editors George Sommer, Joe Hodul Assistant Rev. Stan Mantle

Joe Hodul

Martin Alač

1927

Stanley W. Hibbins

Stan Mantle

1974 History of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada

George Legierski

George Sommer

1979

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1990

Editors George Sommer, Joe Hodul, Assistant Barbara Smith

1991

Editor Martin Alač, Assistants Janette Alač, Joe Hodul

1993

Editor George Sommer, Assistants Barbara Smith, Joe Hodul

1994

Editors George Legierski, Vít Málek, Assistants Barbara Smith, Joe Hodul

1995

Editors George Legierski, Vít Málek, Assistants Iveta Stuška, Joe Hodul

1996

Editors George Legierski, Vít Málek, Assistants Barbara Smith, Joe Hodul

1997

Editors George Legierski, Vít Málek, Assitants Barbara Smith, Rev. Ján Banko, Natasha Legierski

1998

Editors George Legierski, Vít Málek, Assistants Janice Cermak, Rev. Ján Banko, Natasha Legierski

1999-2005 2006-2007 2008

2009-2010 50

1983

P

ravda a Slavná Naděje is the name of the literary organ of the Convention. Its editors have been many, all capable and qualified people. Outstanding in the field of the magazine’s business affairs and subscriptions is Mrs. Katherine Hudacek.

1992

This magazine currently reaches thousands of people in the United States, Canada, South America, and Europe—even in Czechoslovakia and Yugoslavia. John D. Michael, 50th Anniversary of the Convention

Editors Natasha Legierski, Vít Málek, Assistants Janice Cermak, Rev. Ján Banko, George Legierski Editors Natasha Legierski, Vít Málek, Assistants Janice Cermak, Rev. Ján Banko Editors Natasha LegierskiLaurinc, Vít Málek, Assistants Janice Cermak, Rev. Ján Banko, Production Manager George Sommer Editors Natasha Laurinc, Vít Málek, Assistants Janice Cermak, Ondrej Laurinc, PhD, Production Manager George Sommer       Vol 37 No 3, 11 

1938

2002

2010


Glorious Hope—Editorial Staff

Magazine Timeline Natasha Laurinc, Editor-in-Chief

Vit Malek, Destop Publishing and Art

Janice Cermak, Assistent Editor

Ondrej Laurinc, Ph.D., Assistent Editor

Elizabeth Jane Fields, Translator from Czech into English

George Sommer, Production Manager

Dr. Robert Dvorak, Publishing Commitee

Rev. Joseph Novak, Publishing Commitee


      Vol 37 No 3, 11

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The Czechoslovak Baptist Women’s Mission Union Motto: Kristus život náš—Christ Our Life Mission statement: to support mission work among Czechs and Slovaks The Czechoslovak Baptist Women’s Mission Union timeline from year to year, indicating the place of the Convention, and the names of the elected officers in the following order: PRESIDENT – VICE PRESIDENT – SECRETARY – TREASURER

1923 1924-8 1929

CICERO, IL Mrs. G. Cepl, M. Sládková, B. Hadrabová, R. Macíková Czechoslovak Baptist Women’s Mission Union organized

No record available—Žádné informace CAMPBELL, OH Bohatcová, A. Zmrhalová, Novosadová, Fialová Speaker: Katarína. Hudáčková Katarína Hudáčková

1938

CLEVELAND, OH

1939

CHICAGO, IL, Emanuel Bohemian-Lawndale Baptist Church

Cecilie Tučková

A. Zmrhalová Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková

A. Zmrhalová

1941

MINNEAPOLIS, MN, Medicine Lake Camp J. Perglová, V. Brdlíková, M. Obertíková, R. Mrázková

1945

CHICAGO, IL, First Bohemian Baptist Church C. Tučková, J. Perglová, L. Brazdová, Klcová Speaker: C. Tučková Shipments of food and clothing sent to Czech and Slovak people in refugee camps in Germany, Austria, Italy and other places

1946

CLEVELAND, OH E. Novosadová, J. Perglerová, L. Brazdová, A. Broshková Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková

1947

RICHMOND, VA

52

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The Czechoslovak Baptist Women’s Mission Union

1948

GREEN LAKE, WI Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková

1949

MINITONAS, MB S. Brázdová, J. Perglerová, E. Novosadová, A. Broshková Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková

1950

CLEVELAND, OH Katarína Hudáčková, V. Brdlíková, E. Novosadová, A. Broshková Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková

1951

CEDAR LAKE, IN Katarína Hudáčková, M. Obertliková, E. Novosadová, A. Broshková Speaker: V. Brdlíková

1952

MINNEAPOLIS, MN Katarína Hudáčková, M. Obertliková, E. Novosadová, A. Broshková Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková

1953

BEULAH BEACH, OH Katarína Hudáčková, M. Obertlikova, E. Novosadová, A. Broshkova Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková

1954

TORONTO, ON Katarína Hudáčková, M. Obertliková, E. Novosadová, A. Broshková Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková


Mrs. and Mr. Brdlik

T

he vision and faith that characterized the women in the Union was such that they sent missionaries into Czechoslovakia, Yugoslavia, Canada, and the United States of America. Some of the missionaries that this organization has supported in Czechoslovakia are Rev. K. Čermak, Rev. J. Dvořák, Rev. K. Vaculík, Rev. C. Burget, and others. Mrs. Katarína Hudáčková has worked tirelessly as the Women’s Union missionary and president.


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1955

CHICAGO, IL Katarína Hudáčková, Antonia Pirochová, E. Novosadová, A. Broshková Speaker: Ján P. Piroch

1956

WINDSOR, ON Katarína Hudáčková, Antonia Pirochová, E. Novosadová, A. Broshková Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková

1957

CAMPBELL, OH Katarína Hudáčková, Antonia Pirochová, E. Novosadová, A. Broshková Speakers: Katarína Hudáčková, V. Brdliková

1958

CLEVELAND, OH Katarína Hudáčková, Antonia Pirochová, E. Novosadová, A. Broshková Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková

1959

CLEVELAND, OH Katarína Hudáčková, Antonia Pirochová, E. Novosadová, M. Broshková Speakers: Katarína Hudáčková, V. Brdliková

1960

CAMPBELL, OH Katarína Hudáčková, Antonia Pirochová, E. Novosadová, M. Broshková Speaker: H.E. Parham

1961

WINDSOR, ON Katarína Hudáčková, Antonia Pirochová, E. Novosadová, M. Broshková Speaker: Rev. Stanislav Švec, Czechoslovakia

1962

MINITONAS, MB Katarína Hudáčková, Antonia Pirochová, E. Novosadová, M. Broshková Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková

1963

CHICAGO, IL Katarína Hudáčková, Antonia Pirochová, E. Novosadová, M. Broshková Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková

1964

UNION CITY, PA Katarína Hudáčková, Antonia Pirochová, E. Novosadová, M. Broshková Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková

54

      Vol 37 No 3, 11 

Katarína Hudáčková

Counting Our Blessings

Thinking back over the few years that we have been actively involved with many aspects of the convention, we can say with certainty that we have indeed been blessed! The speakers, the special music, the youth involvement, the choir, the fellowship, the beautiful surroundings, the food! All these have a special place in our memory as we relive our times at convention. As a child growing up, I would look forward to going to convention with my cousins and friends to enjoy this special time. My mother, Olga Zajicek, was president of the Czechoslovak Baptist Women’s Mission Union from 1972 to 1974, and then 30 years later I had the privilege of this same position. What memories would come to me as I stood at the pulpit during the meetings. In my mind I could hear my mother as she would pour out her heart in prayer, and then use her God-given gift—singing his praises. Folks would tell me as the years have gone by what an impact her voice and choice of hymns had on them. As we look forward to future conventions, we see our youth being involved—new folks attending—grandchildren coming along being involved—what a blessing! Esther Tarr (nee Zajicek)


1965

TORONTO, ON Katarína Hudáčková, Antonia Pirochová, E. Novosadová, M. Broshková Speaker: Katarína Hudáčková

1966

CLEVELAND, OH Antonia Pirochová, K. Hibenová, M. Nechvátalová, M. Broshková Speaker: Olga Zajíčková

1967

MINITONAS, MB Antonia Pirochová, K. Hibenová, M. Nechvátalová, M. Broshková Speaker: Antonia Pirochová

1968

CAMPBELL, OH Antonia Pirochová, K. Hibenová, M. Nechvátalová, M. Broshková Speaker: C. Tučková

1969

UNION CITY, PA Antonia Pirochová, K. Hibenová, M. Nechvátalová, M. Broshková Speaker: Rev. J.O. Markus, Czechoslovakia

1970

TORONTO, ON Antonia Pirochová, K. Hibenová, A. Broshková, M. Broshková Speaker: Jan P. Piroch

1971

MINITONAS, MB Antonia Pirochová, K. Hibenová, A. Broshková, M. Broshková Speakers: C. Tučková, Ota Vožeh

1972

CAMPBELL, OH Olga Zajíčková, Vlasta Hynková, Marie Schounová, Martha Karhan Speaker: Marie Schounová

1973

CLEVELAND, OH Olga Zajíčková, Vlasta Hynková, Marie Schounová, Martha Karhan Speaker: Olga Zajíčková 50th anniversary of the Czechoslovak Baptist Women’s Mission Union

1974

WINDSOR, ON Olga Zajíčková, Vlasta Hynková, Anne Opocensky, Martha Karhan Speaker: Olga Zajíčková


Karel and Bozena Bohatec

The Czechoslovak Baptist Women’s Mission Union

N

ew missions and churches came into being in scores of northeastern, southeastern, Great Lakes, and mid-western areas, as well as a number of Canadian cities and farming communities. The Convention grew and the churches, through their Convention, sent missionaries back to their homeland with the gospel of Christ. It was a glorious era of expansion and conquest in all fields of missionary endeavor. Yet the work in any American or Canadian field was not easy. The people by birth were either Roman Catholic or Lutheran, and it meant constant personal witnessing—often in the face of bitterest opposition and even bodily harm, not only from those they sought to convert, but even from members of their own households. The churches sometimes suffered from internal strife, but through it all, and in spite of it all, God continued to add to His Church. John D. Michael, 50th Anniversary of the Convention

Zajicek family       Vol 37 No 3, 11

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1975

UNION CITY, PA Mabel Boubelik, Vlasta Hynková, Anne Opocensky, Martha Karhan Speaker: Olga Zajíčková

1976

MINITONAS, MB Mabel Boubelik, Vlasta Hynková, Anne Opocensky, Martha Karhan Speaker: Mabel Boubelik

1977

TORONTO, ON Mabel Boubelik, Marie Schounová, Anne Opocensky, Martha Karhan Speaker: Mabel Boubelik

1978

CAMPBELL, OH Mabel Boubelik, Irene Jeren, Anne Opocensky, Martha Karhan Speaker: Mary Tell

1979

CLEVELAND, OH Mabel Boubelik, Irene Jeren, Anne Opocensky, Martha Karhan Speaker: Dr. Cleora Handel Widlicka

1980

MINITONAS, MB Mabel Boubelik, Irene Jeren, Anne Opocensky, Martha Karhan Speaker: Eva Titěrová

1981

CHICAGO, IL, Trinity Baptist Church Mabel Boubelik, Irene Jeren, Anne Opocensky, Martha Karhan Speaker: Helen Mikulencak

1982

WINDSOR, ON Mabel Boubelik, Irene Jeren, Anne Opocensky, Martha Karhan Speaker: Jarmila Krišková

1983

CAMPBELL, OH Mabel Boubelik, Irene Jeren, Anne Opocensky, Martha Karhan Speaker: Jane Jacobs

Georgina Gonzales Olga and Josef Zajicek

Mary Schoun

Antonie Springle

Mary Shereda Grant

Irene Jeren

Kellie Honey

Leona Choy

Joan Rotar, Anne Opocensky, Eileen Lev, Natasha Legierski

56

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The Czechoslovak Baptist Women’s Mission Union 1984

TORONTO, ON Helen Horwath, Jane Widlicka, Anne Opocensky, Esther Widlicka Speaker: Emily Turansky

1985

HATCH HOLLOW, OH Helen Horwath, Jane Widlicka, Anne Opocensky, Martha Karhan Speaker: Joyce Blakesly

1986

MINITONAS, MB Helen Horwath, Jane Widlicka, Anne Opocensky, Martha Karhan Speaker: Margaret Winter

1987

CLEVELAND, OH Helen Horwath, Jane Widlicka, Anne Opocensky, Martha Karhan Speaker: Ruby Mikulencak

1988

WINDSOR, ON Jean Hynek, Jane Widlicka, Anne Opocensky, Alice Kmetko Speaker: Jiřina Pospíšilová

1989

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Jean Hynek, Jane Widlicka, Anne Opocensky, Alice Kmetko Speaker: Lydie Pospíšilová PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Helen Mikulencak, Esther Widlicka, Anne Opocensky, Helen Struharik Speaker: Dr. Denton Lotz

1991

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Helen Mikulencak, Esther Widlicka, Anne Opocensky, Helen Struharik Speaker: Marija Sommer PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Marija Sommer, Margie Jeren, Anne Opocensky, Helen Struharik Speaker: Mária Kohútová

1993

MINITONAS, MB Marija Sommer, Margie Jeren, Anne Opocensky, Helen Struharik Speaker: Naomi Hall


Judy Shoff

Ruby Mikulencak

Michele Moore

Alice Kmetko

1990

1992

Esther Widlicka

Jean Hynek

Helen Mikulencak

Margie Jeren

Marija Sommer

Jane Widlicka

      Vol 37 No 3, 11

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1994

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Margie Jeren, Eileen Lev, Anne Opocensky, Helen Struharik Speaker: Elena Pribulova and Anne Sizemore

1995

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Margie Jeren, Eileen Lev, Anne Opocensky, Helen Struharik Speaker: Barbara Manas

1996

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Margie Jeren, Eileen Lev, Anne Opocensky, Helen Struharik Speaker: Joan Rotar

1997

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Natasha Legierski, Eileen Lev, Anne Opocensky, Helen Struharik Speaker: Ružena Dvořaková-Žiaranová

1998

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Natasha Legierski, Eileen Lev, Anne Opocensky, Helen Struharik Speakers: Ruby Mikulencak and Mlada Stehlíková

1999

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Natasha Legierski, Eileen Lev, Anne Opocensky, Helen Struharik Speaker: Zorka Abrmanová

2000

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Natasha Legierski, Eileen Lev, Anne Opocensky, Joan Rotar Speaker: Ludmila Dedeciusová

2001

58

Margie Jeren

Dorothy Dvorak

Toronto ladies choir

Zorka Abrmanová and Natasha Legierski

Donna Seaman

Anna Kulačíková

Esther Tarr

Anne Opocensky

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Natasha Legierski, Eileen Lev, Anne Opocensky, Joan Rotar, Donna Nesvadba (Canadian treasurer) Speaker: Ruby Mikulencak

      Vol 37 No 3, 11 


The Czechoslovak Baptist Women’s Mission Union 2002

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Natasha Legierski, Eileen Lev, Anne Opocensky, Joan Rotar, Donna Nesvadba Speaker: Anna Kulačíková Other Guests: Leona Choy, Kellie Honey

2003

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Dorothy Dvorak, Eileen Lev, Jane Widlicka, Grace Niswonger, Donna Nesvadba Speaker: Susan Markwood, Other Guests: Dita Poenaru, Zorka Abrmanová—mission

2004

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Dorothy Dvorak, Eileen Lev, Jane Widlicka, Grace Niswonger, Donna Nesvadba Speaker: Ruby Mikulencak

2005

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Esther Tarr, Margaret Springle, Jane Widlicka, Grace Niswonger, Donna Nesvadba Speaker: Donna Seaman

2006

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Esther Tarr, Margaret Springle, Jane Widlicka, Marija Sommer, Donna Nesvadba Speaker: Věra Titěrová

Deb Mulder, Judy Shoff, Margaret Springle, Esther Tarr and Dorothy Dvorak

Dorothy Dvorak, Esther Tarr and Věra Titěrová

2007

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Esther Tarr, Margaret Springle, Deb Mulder, Marija Sommer, Donna Nesvadba Speaker: Ester Krišková

2008

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Esther Tarr, Margaret Springle, Deb Mulder, Marija Sommer, Donna Nesvadba Speaker: Ruby Mikulencak

2009

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Deb Mulder, Donna Nesvadba, Margaret Springle, Marija Sommer, Donna Nesvadba Speaker: Heather Mantle

2010

PHILIPPI, WV, Alderson-Broaddus College Deb Mulder, Donna Nesvadba, Margaret Springle, Marija Sommer, Donna Nesvadba Speaker: Koreen Villars 87th Annual Meeting of the Czechoslovak Baptist Women’s Missionary Union

Ester Krišková and Esther Tarr

Sue Devine

Koreen Villars and Deb Mulder History of the Czechoslovak Baptist Convention of USA and Canada

Donna Nesvadba

      Vol 37 No 3, 11

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In this issue of Glorious Hope

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