The gathering resembled that of a huge noisy class reunion - the joy of meeting old friends, the equal delight of chatting up contemporary acquaintances in the warm ambience of the grand ballroom over a hearty meal.
But the occasion was really the NECF Malaysia's 20th anniversary dinner attended by over 1,500 people from at least 85 member -churches and - organisations. The coming-together of so many churches was the crowning achievement of God's faithfulness in guiding NECF through the past 20 years.
Among the guests were many founding members of the fellowship and church leaders and representatives from all over Malaysia. Several prominent Christian politicians and businessmen took time off from their busy schedule to attend the dinner; they included MP Dr Maximus Ongkili, State Assemblymen Dato' Lee Hwa Beng and Hoh Hee Lee and Land and Cooperative Development Deputy Minister Dr Ron Tan.
Also present to share NECF's joy were leaders from other denominations, such as the Most Rev. Archbishop Datuk Yong Ping Chung (Archbishop of the Anglican diocese of South-east Asia); the Rt Rev. Tan Sri Lim Cheng Ean (Bishop of the Anglican diocese of West Malaysia); and Bishop Dr Gideon Chang (Lutheran Church of Malaysia) and Bishop Julius Paul (Evangelical Lutheran Church of Malaysia).
The dinner was graced by the second daughter of Dr Billy Graham, Dr Anne Graham Lotz, who delivered the night's message. Following her uplifting sermon of heaven and hope, the guests were treated to a multi-media presentation of NECF's history, development and current ministry involvement.
Overall, the gathering was a time of strengthening ties, a timely meeting to get acquainted with the growing family of NECF and affirm our bond in the Lord. |
