Kinda funny how rich our Father is. I mean we think celebrities are wealthy when they have a house in the Caribbeans and in California. Shoot, our Father has houses all over the world. This morning we went to one of them as part of a cultural class we're taking. It was much different than what I had expected. I think we have a very different view of how things are in the west.
To be honest, it wasn't that much different than a time in the states, (aside from it being in a different language.) We had massive headsets to wear and a lady in the back translated the majority of it for us. Our group went to two different places this morning, ours was about a 40 min bus, subway, and walk away. When we got there the outside was packed, then they opened the doors. Apparently we were number 2 of 4 meetings that was happening there. There was probably 300+ people in the one we went to. It seemed to be a mix of Catholic and Methodist style. They used hymns and most of the ones I know from back home were in their hymn book. We even sang Lilly of the Vally, I sang in English, them... not so much. The message was pretty good, a little hard to follow. I was surprised by the amount of people coming in and out. Not much time to talk or get to know people, it was kinda in and out, but when your 3rd time starts at 10:00 am, you've got to be busy. After talking to someone later on who knew a little more than I did, I found out that we had went to the oldest protestant fellowship in Beijing. It was origionally started in 1860. (not always in the same building though). They also said that their biggest limitation now is just space. They had the old school auditorium type that we were in and then a side room built on, and another building with screens in it. It was pretty cool. A little different. Not quite like Africa, but still pretty cool.
My life in China: Teaching. Learning. Pursuing. Surrendering. Being Loved. Loving.
Good Morning Abram,
ReplyDeleteI so enjoy your blogs, in fact, I always look forward to reading them. I check frequently. You mentioned the subway. They do have a nice one don't they? You are now getting into the heart of what I called the "genuine Chinese people". They have no axe to grind, no propaganda to spread. (although you will meet some) You will meet more of the "genuine" as you start your teaching. About the hymn books; in 1990 we took one as a gift to a church we attended in Zhijiazhuang. The service was exactly as you stated the tune was familiar but the words were strange. Needless to say we did the same as you...sang in English. Dr. Sudarcar Jamkhandia from Bluefield State College was with us and he presented the church with a Chalice Cup. We didn't get into trouble. I would like to think they are still using the hymnal, learning new songs. Hey, think of you and guys a lot, if you know what I mean. Take care, take it all in, sights, smells, and culture. It is an experience of a life time.