One Monday in June, Joyce and I, along with around sixteen other Korean
pastors from the Upper New York Conference, had the privilege of being
invited by the Korean United Methodist Church in Rochester to celebrate the dedication of their new building. It was a special occasion, and we gathered in the new church building to worship together in Korean. As you can imagine, it felt like home.
The worship service was deeply moving, and the sense of community was
palpable. After the worship, the United Women in Faith (UMF) prepared a plentiful and delicious lunch with a variety of Korean foods for all of us. It was a fantastic and joyful experience, filled with the flavors and aromas of our homeland. Following the lunch, we enjoyed a time of fellowship with delicious American desserts like cheesecakes and cookies.
Joyce and I were so impressed by the loving hearts of the congregation,
especially their hospitality in Christ. This experience reminded me of the
importance of hospitality as Christians. It is a powerful expression of God’s love and an essential aspect of our faith community. The warmth and
generosity we experienced were profound examples of the love and care
that Christ calls us to extend to one another.
Reflecting on this experience, I realized once again the significance of those who work behind the scenes to serve others. Their dedication and selflessness often go unnoticed, but they play a crucial role in creating a welcoming and nurturing environment for everyone.
In fact, we often overlook the dedication and work of those who serve behind the scenes in our church. Let us make an intentional effort to recognize and celebrate their love, dedication, and care. Moreover, let us express our heartfelt appreciation to them with the love of Christ.
By showing our love and appreciation to each other, we can make a church full of love, care, appreciation, and hospitality.
May we all continue to serve with loving hearts, especially this summer season. Thank you for being a part of this wonderful faith community.
Blessings in Christ,
Pastor Yohang