Thanksgiving Dinner

I had a thanksgiving dinner after graduation in our lower chapel.  There are tons of people that I need to invite, but allocated them only for my wedding .  I specifically invited only several groups of people who I believe has deep relationship with regards to my 11 years of studying.


Those whom I invited were the all church leaders, pastoral team, church staff and co-workers, BSOP faculty, DLSU faculty and classmates, supporters, my four generation of disciples marvelous friends, Andrew's group, BOB, and the last joint camp staff and of course, my family and some selected relatives who I have close contacts for the past few months.


The thanksgiving dinner was so simple but very much meaningful.  It started with opening remarks by Dr. Bee Ching Ongkiankoc, followed by song of adoration, my testimony of God's goodness in molding me, response song of "My Tribute," message of thanksgiving by Dr.Joseph Shao, response song by the Senior Chior on the "Prayer of St. Francis," prayer of thanks and supplication by Dr. David Cheung, words of thanks by me and prayer for dinner by Rev. Philip Co.  This is followed by dinner.


The whole program was exactly one hour and another hour of dinner and fellowship.  The whole program was very focused on God and we celebrated together as one big family.  I witness the intimate fellowship of the whole church during that time, I was so happy about it.


In my personal reflection afterward, I really thought that celebrations are important in a person's life as well as in church life.  I think it was the only time where all the church leaders are gathered with a light atmosphere and meaningful fellowship with one another - no church issues, no discussion, no meetings, no arguments - only celebration of God.  We need to create more of this and celebrate God's blessing in our church so that we can better work together unitedly for the improvement of the church.


Special thanks to my brother who prepared the program, Ralphie for the backdrop design, Kandie and John Paul for organizing the event, and BOB and camps staff for serving as ushers and food keepers.


I specially thanked those who came to the celebration, it was also a moment to say thank you for their prayers and support through these years of learning.


 It was a memorable and joyous occasion not only for me and my family but for the whole church not because of my accomplishment but God!