THE GREATEST GIFT - HOPE CHURCH SINGAPORE

As Christmas approached, the festive fever was caught all around Singapore -- and Textile Centre was no exception. Hope Church Singapore celebrated Christmas in Axis Auditorium over two days, 22nd and 23rd December, with “The Greatest Gift”. It was the first time ever Christmas services were held in our new home. From the youths to the adults, many people came down to attend the special occasion with great anticipation. The place was vibrantly colored with vivid lights and decorations, ushering in the festive mood within the auditorium.

The service was kick-started by the choir getting the crowd on their feet with joyous songs and Christmas carols. With classic songs such as “Joy to the World” and “Hark! The Herald Angel Sing”, everyone merrily singed along as they enjoyed the festive sounds and music.

Our very own drama team delivered a heartrending and meaningful skit, which tells the story of how a single father taught his son, from his adolescent years to adulthood, to understand that spending quality time with loved ones even in the midst of our most occupied and troubled times, is more important than chasing after material wants, wealth and status. The drama was followed up by a contemporary dance performance, to the song “Fix You” by Coldplay, stirring the hearts of many as it portrays the sorrow of a parent who is slowly being neglected by his very own child.

Pastor Jeff then preached the message of Christmas, revealing that the greatest gift to us is God’s presence. Everyone learnt that what truly matters in Christmas is not only being in the presence of people, but also in the presence of God. A video screening showed the testimony of a mother and son pair, who struggled to reconcile their relationship due to family issues. As both of them chose to draw near to the presence of God despite hardships, they were blessed back in greater folds.

At the end of the day, there was no greater joy than to witness many brothers and sisters joining our wonderful spiritual family. Christmas was joyously celebrated as believers and visitors came together in Hope Church to enjoy the presence of each other, knowing that "The Greatest Gift" has already been given to us.

Written by – Floyd Raphael Chong Jia Jun