UCG London Open House Sabbath Services!

A tremendous step for unity took place on the Sabbath of December 21st! On that date, UCG President Rick Shabi visited London, England on his way to the UCG Regional Conference in the Netherlands. The local UCG congregation used this occasion to host a Sabbath service open to all members of the Church of God to “come together in worship, unity, and fellowship”. What an encouraging development!

Here’s more of the update from UCG elder David Elliott:

For most Sabbaths, the London congregation is usually around 30–40 people, but for the open house the numbers swelled to a little over 100—with at least five different “churches of God” represented, as well as a number of brethren who do not currently associate with any particular organization.

Mr. Shabi’s sermon reminded everyone of Christ said in John 17:17—how we are all bound by His Spirit and truth—in a message titled “Set Apart by Truth.” For some, the singing of the old and well-known Church of God hymns, including “O Come and Let us Worship Him” and “We are God’s People,” was an emotional reminder we are indeed all God’s very own special people, called out of this world to be sanctified and prepared for service in the soon coming Kingdom of God.

Following the service, everyone enjoyed a buffet meal while brethren old and new met or renewed acquaintances. Some brethren had not seen each other for decades and it was a remarkable opportunity to see other members of the Church of God and to be strengthened—being reminded that God is active in the lives of all His children.

After the food and fellowship, Mr. Shabi answered questions from the congregation. Many positive comments have been received and brethren from various Churches of God appreciated the openness, friendliness and opportunity to see faces old and new.

Our sincere thanks to all those who worked so hard to arrange such a special and encouraging occasion.