NEWS

Seniors’ Day

Thank God that our church was able to hold Seniors’ Day once again on August 23! And thank God for giving me the opportunity to serve in this event.  Let me interview one of the organisers, Betty, and hear the insider’s story!

Q: The last “Seniors’ Day” was held in 2019, which was six years ago. Why did you decide to organize it again this year?

A: In the early years of COVID, due to the uncertainties of the pandemic, we refrained from holding Seniors’ Day.  When we resumed the Cantonese Bible study group for the elderly in 2023, we realized that half of the attendees who used to be regulars could no longer come to church gatherings for various reasons.  I saw the need to seize the time to let our elderly brothers and sisters enjoy this annual event that belongs to them.  Thank God that over the past two years, I’ve built relationships with young members in our congregation through the Workers’ Fellowship.  They had long heard about the Seniors’ Day, a tradition which we had kept for eleven years.  When I formally invited them in May this year to serve on Seniors’ Day, they all agreed readily.  And so, the story began.

Q: What difficulties did you encounter during the preparation process? How did the Lord lead the committee to overcome them?

A: One of the biggest difficulties we faced was that we hadn’t held this event for five years. Many of the details had faded from memory, and on top of that, two of our talented chefs had since left the church.  Most of those willing to serve this year were new, and I was a bit apprehensive at the beginning.  Thank God for giving me strength and courage to first adjust my own mindset, and then help my coworkers face challenges positively.

Q: After several days of heavy rain, the weather cleared up on Seniors’ Day. How did you feel about that?

A: It was a great opportunity to exercise our faith in God.  For two weeks before Seniors’ Day, we kept checking the weather forecast, and were told to expect torrential rain on the day.  In fact, the rain was still pouring non-stop the night before. Thankfully, at our first committee meeting in early July, I had already shared with brothers and sisters that Seniors’ Day is God's ministry—not mine or anyone else’s.  Since it is God’s work, He will take full responsibility, including the weather, which is beyond our control.  As God’s servants, we just need to prepare faithfully.  Even if it poured on the day and only half the elderly showed up, or there were problems with the program or food, surely God’s good purpose would prevail.  When we woke up to a blue sky on the day, we could only give thanks to God and marvel at His great power.

Q: How was the gathering that day?  What was the atmosphere like?  Did the elderly enjoy it?

A: Most of the elderly gave positive feedback.  They especially appreciated the respect and courtesy shown by the younger members.  They really liked the thoughtfully-prepared food, the nice decorations, and the well-arranged program.

Q: Do you think Seniors’ Day achieved its intended goals?

A: The main goal of Seniors’ Day is to express our gratitude to the elderly who have contributed to the society, their families, and the church over the years.  Based on the positive responses received, it seems that this goal was achieved.

Q: Did you see God at work during Seniors’ Day?

A: Certainly, and thank God for His guidance throughout.  He gave us capable chefs, brothers who looked after the parking lot, and others who led singspiration, organised games and performance, prepared decorations, ushered, looked after IT, and purchased gifts online.  Most importantly, the Lord united us with one heart and purpose in giving warm hospitality and respect to our elderly.

Q: From the start of the preparation process to the event itself and the debriefing meeting, what reflections and feelings do you have?

A: Serving God is an incredible blessing.  I’m especially thankful because even though there were moments of discouragement and setbacks along the way, God reminded me - “Why are you so worried and anxious? This is My ministry.  I will take full responsibility.”  That gave me indescribable peace in my heart.

Q: Do you have anything you’d like to say to the brothers and sisters who served in the event?

A: Thank you, brothers and sisters, for serving alongside me in unity and for your patience and acceptance.  Looking forward to serving together again next year!

Q: Do you have anything you’d like to say to the elderly?

A: Thank you for letting us serve you.  Pray that Seniors’ Day is just the start of ongoing opportunities for brothers and sisters of different ages and languages to share life and faith together.

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