Transylvania Partnership

Since 1993, we have fostered a partnership with the Unitarian congregation in Székelykeresztúr (pronounced SAY-kay-ker-us-tur), one of more than 120 Hungarian Unitarian congregations in Transylvania (Romania), in an effort to strengthen ties between the two historic spiritual communities.

Our Mission:

The Partner Congregation Committee (PCC) promotes, supports and enables the deepening of the relationships between our historic spiritual communities in Concord and Székelykeresztúr.

We are ever mindful of the common threads that bind us closely together. So too are we mindful of our differences and seek ways to transform them into new levels of shared strength and hope.

We continue to deepen our circles of mutual trust and understanding of what it means to be Unitarians across continents, languages, and cultures.

We visit each other to experience first-hand the richness of our unique perspectives and histories.

We exchange ideas and gifts to enrich the life and spirit of each of our congregations.

Pilgrimages:

We are excited to be planning a multigenerational pilgrimage to Székelykeresztúr in April of 2027. We hope you will consider joining us. Also, in Fall 2025, we will welcome the Keresztúr ministers along with a small delegation to Concord. Keep your eyes and ears open for more information in the coming months, or email Tim Whitney (timothywwhitney@gmail.com) to inquire further.

2023 30^th Anniversary Pilgrimage:

In September of 2023, twelve members of First Parish visited our partner church to commemorate the 30^thanniversary of the partnership, join in their Thanksgiving (Hálaadás) celebration, learn more about Hungarian Unitarianism, tour the stunning countryside, and build connections with our friends in Székelykeresztúr.

Traditional Transylvanian Dancers

Past Pilgrimages:
- Music and Culture pilgrimage: 2002, 2007, 2010, and 2014
- First Parish Youth pilgrimage: 2003, 2005, 2007, 2009, 2011
- Family pilgrimage: 2013, 2018
- Keresztúri pilgrimage to Concord: 2006, 2008, 2012
- Youth Folk Dance Troupe visit to New England: 2019

Scholarship Program:

Our scholarship program makes it possible for many Hungarian minority students to receive a highly-valued Hungarian education and help preserve their heritage. Scholarships offset a variety of expenses at the Berde Mózes Unitarian High School, including room & board, commute, books, and other expenses. The students are all from Hungarian families, and from various faiths including Unitarian, Catholic, and Protestant.

Incoming freshmen who are in need of financial assistance and have solid academics are identified by a scholarship committee in Keresztúr. Hundreds of First Parish families and friends have donated to help support 270 students over the years, making a huge difference in their lives.

Interested? Contact Kathy Spang (katalinspang@yahoo.com)

2024-09-28 PCC Gala Slide Show, from Barbara Olson

Committee Members:

Lillian Anderson – Co-chair

Tim Whitney – Co-chair

Sara Ballard

Dana Booth

Kathy Booth

Dana Lissy

Beth Norton (Staff liaison)

Barbara Olson (Scholarships)

Leah Russell