In celebration of the nation’s 46th birthday, churches come together to give thanks and pray for the land.
Contributed By Daniel Chew
The CHC worship team leading in song. PHOTO COURTESY OF DEREK DUNN.
Once every year, representatives from various churches and denominations in Singapore gather together for a National Day Thanksgiving Service—a time where churches give thanks to God for the nation and pray for the government and leaders of the land. This is in accordance to Scripture found in 1 Timothy 2, which exhorts all believers to intercede on behalf of those in authority.
The service was held on Thursday, Aug. 18, at the St. Andrew’s Cathedral New Sanctuary. After welcome greetings from the Very Reverend Kuan Kim Seng, dean and vicar of St. Andrew’s Cathedral, a time of worship ensued and the congregation worshipped God in one accord, with a harpist and pipe organist who accompanied the rest of the worship ensemble.
The City Harvest Church worship team, represented by Teo Poh Heng, Annabel Soh, Sendy Bolang and Alec Ngo, led eight songs in total, including “How Great Is Our God,” “How Great Thou Art” and “Give Thanks.” The CHC team also led a song for the nation entitled “From Many Shores,” written by the president of NCCS and Bishop of the Methodist Church in Singapore, Bishop Robert Solomon and Jusuf Kamadjaja. Other worship groups who performed included the Wesley Soli Deo Gloria Ensemble from Wesley Methodist Church, the Mar Thoma Syrian Church Choir and the Glory Presbyterian Church Choir.
Before the sermon, the congregation prayed for the peace, harmony and security for Singapore. Thereafter, the Most Rev. Dr. John Chew, vice-president of the National Council of Churches of Singapore and bishop of Singapore, shared from Romans 12 on using the grace of gifts in love for common good and to develop a lifestyle of serving others, doing good to all and to always pray for those in authority.
Guest speaker from USA, pastor Zulvy Leon, preached an inspiring message. CN PHOTO: Alvin Loh.
The evening closed with Bishop Solomon giving the benediction, followed by the recessional and postlude. It was a humble yet heartfelt gathering of believers but one that displayed the unity of the body of Christ in Singapore.
Indonesians Celebrate
Indonesian members in City Harvest church celebrated their nation’s Independence Day on Sunday, Aug. 7. The commemorative service included special song and dance performances and a poetry recital. Members also sang their national anthem and prayed for their country.
