Contributed by Koh Yong Hui
Over the final weekend of July 2009, members of City Harvest Chinese Church (CHCC) were treated to an up-close and personal encounter with pop artists from Taiwan.
Abraham Ku, Senior Pastor of Taipei New Life Church, was invited to preach in CHCC on 24, 26 and 28 July 2009. Not only did he bring along a timely message for the members, he also brought along pop artists and the drama team from his church. Those who attended the sessions were entertained by the drama team with a comedy skit entitled ‘Pure Water’. Simple and entertaining, the skit explained how one can receive the strength and power of the Holy Spirit. The crowd obviously enjoyed the performance as laughter could be heard all throughout the auditorium.
The crowd was also treated to live performances by the various pop artists. Renowned singer, Chen Wei Quan, staged a “mini-concert” of sorts, with the lights dimmed and light sticks waving throughout the packed hall. The crowd cheered and clapped as Chen sang song after song, some self composed originals.
Lin Su Fen, 20, a fresh graduate who joined CHCC for the first time, said “I really enjoyed the event; Chen Wei Quan was very friendly. It is the first time I’ve been to a church that has a concert incorporated into its program. And we were so up close and personal with the artist, it’s so exciting.”
Secular songs were not the only songs heard that afternoon, Chen also sang a worship song, which he says is the one that touches his heart more than any other song. He also sang a birthday song for those whose birthday fell in the month of July, that had members of the congregation smiling from ear to ear.
After listening to Chen’s testimony, Zou Hui, 24, a project engineer, remarked, “After listening to his story about his life journey, I felt very touched by the presence of God.”
Among many of the visitors that came to the Live House, some joined the CHCC the following week at City Harvest Church’s 20th Anniversary celebrations.
When asked if the event was a success, Natalie Teo, 34, administration officer of CHCC, replied, “Yes. Most retention programs display the creativity and talents of our own members. This event, however, involved artists who are already known in the pop arena. And through their involvement, the congregation and especially the new friends are able to see our openness to things which are outside the four walls of our church. The church can be relevant to today’s society.”
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| PHOTOS: Lam Hui Ching |
