Dear Church Family,
I want to begin by saying thank you for the amazing welcome you gave us last Sunday! We can’t express enough how grateful we are for the love that we have received and for all the things you gave us to help us settle into our new apartment. We promise to put everything to good use!
This past week, we have continued to adjust to our new life here in Hawai’i. We bought two vehicles and visited Noah’s new school. We also went hiking, visited the beach several times, and explored the North Shore. We are really enjoying this time together!
As we approach this Sunday, I am filled with great joy and anticipation as we come together to celebrate the 144th anniversary of The First Chinese Church of Christ in Hawai’i. This occasion gives us a chance to not only reflect on the rich history of our church but also embrace the future with hope, knowing that God’s faithfulness will continue to guide us.
During the dedication of our church’s first building in 1881, Rev. Samuel Damon proclaimed that there is no place more favorable for effectively reaching the Chinese with the gospel of Christ than Honolulu. As I look towards beginning my ministry at First Chinese in the coming days, I firmly believe that this proclamation still holds true. God has strategically positioned our church to be a beacon of light, shining His love and truth to the Chinese community in Hawai’i and beyond.
With that said, I know that we cannot accomplish this mission in our own strength. It is through the power of Christ working in and through us that lives are transformed and souls are saved. As a church, we must place our trust in Christ, for with Him, all things are possible (Matthew 19:26). As we bid farewell to Pastor Yeow and my ministry begins, let us remember that our ultimate guide and source of hope is Jesus Christ alone.
I invite each and every one of you to join us this Sunday as we gather to celebrate our church’s 144th anniversary. Together, let us lift our voices in worship, thanksgiving, and prayer. As we welcome a new season in our church, let us seek God’s guidance and blessings. May His Spirit ignite a fresh passion within us to reach the lost, make disciples, and bring glory to His name.
In Christ’s love,
Pastor Lilley