May Day Picnic

Yesterday was May Day in Hungary. The Hungarians and most Europeans observe the day as a kind of Labor Day. Since almost everyone is off work, many churches plan picnics for May Day and we were invited to the Debrecen Open Bible Church picnic. We arrived about 10 in the morning, in time to watch some of the preparations. A huge pot of Paprikas Krumpli (Paprika Potatoes) was being prepared. There was a crew who peeled and sliced all the potatoes and two ladies who managed the cooking in the big pot. The men, meanwhile, walked through the surrounding woods looking for dead wood. They brought some back, sawed it into manageable pieces, and put it in a trailer "to use for the next picnic." At lunchtime everyone was served a huge bowl of Paprikas Krumpli and bread. Many people brought cookies to share for dessert. It was a great time of fellowship sitting around, talking, playing games and just enjoying each other and the beautiful weather. Mike even got to talk to another pastor who was there about INSTE.
Today, May 2, many of the shops and workplaces are still closed so people can have a long weekend. We found that out when we went to try to mail some letters and to buy bus passes and both of those office were closed! I guess we just wait until Monday!