September 21, 2025, marks the 19th Anniversary Celebration Sunday of Grace Church.
Time flies, and Grace Church is 19 years old! The celebration was both solemn and joyful, with Bishop Chen attending to deliver the sermon. Leaders from across New Zealand joined us to watch a slideshow commemorating the 19th anniversary of Grace Church, bearing witness to the marvelous works of the Lord within our congregation.
We thank the Lord for His grace and guidance; over 150 brothers and sisters participated in the church's 19th anniversary celebration that day.
Our ushers were in place early, welcoming everyone and distributing handmade cards created by the youth during fellowship. Each card was filled with blessings from God.
As always, the gathering began with our worship team leading us in heartfelt praise to the Lord.
"To encounter God is to encounter happiness," for "our God sits on the throne, His temple is filled with glory, and all nations worship Him."
Sister Yajun's testimony brought many to tears, yet it was also powerful and uplifting. Each word reminded us that God loves us even before we love Him. Even in the valleys of life, we have God's presence, His promises, and endless hope.
Bishop Chen Liliang, the first bishop of the New Zealand Methodist Annual Conference, delivered a sermon reminding everyone of the great commission to "practice godliness, live out holiness, serve the community, and spread the gospel."
On such a special day, how could we not have a special presentation?
The children from our church's Sunday School brought us a delightful performance of the "Twinkle, Twinkle, Little Star" dance.
The paper stars held high in the children's hands may not shine as brightly as the stars they represent in their eyes, but they believe that "all things are created by God and should praise Him," and they are indeed a beautiful example of God's finest creation.
“The Lord is good; His steadfast love endures forever, and His faithfulness to all generations.” - Psalm 100:5
As the children performed, a group of little musicians was already waiting in the wings.
It was time for the older siblings to present their special offering to God.
With the song "I Believe," they not only declared their faith but also brought everyone a feast for the eyes and ears.
“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that having all sufficiency in all things at all times, you may abound in every good work.” - 2 Corinthians 9:8
Amidst the beautiful melodies, we reflected together on God’s blessings and guidance over the past 19 years, our hearts overflowing with gratitude.
The little musicians received enthusiastic applause from the congregation, earning themselves an encore opportunity. Accompanied by the musicians, the congregation joined together in singing "I Believe."
Well done, future great musicians! We are grateful for the talents God has bestowed, for the support of teachers and parents, and for the willingness of the children to offer themselves for God’s service.
Since it’s a birthday celebration, we couldn’t miss the traditional cake-cutting ceremony.
Can you believe that such a beautifully crafted cake was made with the most challenging whipped cream? We thank God for His provision in bringing a professional dessert master into the family of Jia En Church.
Then, the congregation sang the birthday song together.
The pastor, church leaders, and deacons joined together to cut the cake, symbolizing fellowship and unity.
“For the land which you go to possess is not like the land of Egypt from which you have come, where you sowed your seed and watered it by foot, as a vegetable garden; but the land which you cross over to possess is a land of hills and valleys, which drinks water from the rain of heaven.” - Deuteronomy 11:12
Bishop Chen offered blessings and gave thanks before the meal.
At the end of the gathering, over 150 people enjoyed a sumptuous dinner together, sharing and experiencing the grace of the Lord.
May all glory be to God, and may He continue to lead His church into new milestones! “Make my joy complete by being of the same mind, having the same love, being in full accord and of one mind.” - Philippians 2:2
Conclusion: A grand event is always supported by the silent dedication of unsung heroes behind the scenes. This piece is dedicated to the many unnamed heroes, and most importantly, to our Lord. We give thanks once again for His abundant provision. “From whom the whole body, joined and knit together by what every joint supplies, according to the effective working by which every part does its share, causes growth of the body for the edifying of itself in love.” - Ephesians 4:16