Sunday Mornings

I've been having trouble with Blogger for the past few weeks, and still can't upload photos for some reason. I wrote the following after last week

After several months, we are still learning how to participate in the Sunday worship services here in China. I would like to share with you what our Chinese service was like yesterday, March 3rd. The Scriptures and hymns listed change from week-to-week, of course but the order of service stays basically the same.

1.       Choir calls congregation to worship

2.       Worship leader says, “May God’s peace be with you.”

       Congregation replies, “May God’s peace also be with you.”

3.       Worship leader reads a Psalm- Psalm 117.

4.       Congregation stands and sings a hymn- Holy, Holy, Holy.

5.       Congregation recites the Apostle’s Creed

6.       Scripture reading: Psalm 63:1-9. Worship leader says, “This is God’s Word!”

           Congregation answers, “Thank you, God!”

7.       Congregation sings a hymn: There is a Fountain Filled with Blood

8.       Scripture reading from Old Testament: Isaiah 55:1-9.

Worship leader says, “This is God’s Word!”

Congregation answers, “Thank you, God!”

9.       Scripture reading from the Gospels: Luke 13:1-9. Everyone stands.

      Worship leader says, “This is the Gospel of Christ.”

10.   In response, the congregation sings a hymn. Gloria Patri.

11.   Choir sings a hymn. Words are shown on the screen. Today-Respond to God’s Love (My           
      translation.)

12.   Sermon. Today, Luke 13:1-9. “Jesus’ Figure of Speech: The Barren Fig Tree.”

13.   Hymn: Doxology

14.   Today communion was served.

15.   Congregation sings a hymn. -Guide Me O Thou Great Jehovah.

16.   Announcements and welcome of visitors

17.   Pastor’s benediction

18.   Choir sings as congregation exits-God’s Peace to You. (My translation. We love this distinctly 
      Chinese-sounding song.)

Unlike a few other churches in Beijing, there is no English translation offered at the church we have been attending. We use a bilingual Bible and hymnal, so we are able to follow along during the songs and the readings. During the sermon, we read the passage, translate the sermon title, try to listen for words and phrases we recognize, and figure out a few new words and phrases either from the text or that we hear the pastor use.

Admittedly, we understand very little of what is said during the sermon. But singing the great hymns of the faith with our Chinese brothers and sisters and hearing the Scriptures being read both honors the Lord and brings joy to our hearts.