Easter Sunday...

Unlike Christmas, Easter is a western holiday that has not yet been commercialized in China. That was actually kind of refreshing as it allowed me to focus solely on the religious significance of the day rather than being bomarded by images of clucking rabbits on tv selling chocolate eggs and grown men in bunny suits giving out cheap candy to children. It also led to some interesting conversations with Chinese friends who had never heard of Easter before. I did miss the colored eggs though, well maybe next year.

This morning I attended the Easter service and celebration at Congregation of the Good Shepherd. The service was a beautiful combination of music, liturgy, scripture, preaching, and communion. Pastor Dan preached an inspired sermon on the importance and benefits of sharing our faith in Christ. The worship room was filled to standing room only (people that my friend Bro. Brian Rainey would call "Easter Lilies" as they attend only on Easter). The choir was magnificent proclaiming the message of Easter through song.

After the service, the children had an egg hunt in a nearby park and the adults had coffee/tea and chatted. I was able to meet several new people as well as get caught up on EF happenings with fellow EF teacher Sue from EF Dongzhimen Center.

Following the coffee time, we went back inside for an elaborate Easter luncheon buffet catered by the Capital Club. The Capital Club is an organization of foreign businessmen. One part of our agreement with them is that they provide our meeting space in their function hall but if we need any food, we have to use their catering service. While it is expensive, I felt the meal was well worth the 180 rmb per person (about 30 bucks, although if you can't afford the full price wealthier members of the congregation do help make up the difference for those who can't pay). The meal featured a Chinese barbecue station with duck, chicken, and pork; a carving station with ham and prime rib; a salad buffet; lamb and chicken; various vegetables; and an elaborate dessert station with make your own waffles, cakes, and ice cream! I felt like I was at the Bellagio buffet! It was definitely of the quality you would receive in a five star hotel.

Here is a video compilation of the service as well as some pictures:



The Altar Ready For Easter


Dessert Plate With Chocolate Rabbit