The people of the Western part of our country is mostly Roman Catholic. For this people the word and practice of the “Thanksgiving Service” is unknown. So we tried to organize and invite people in this Autumn the first Thanksgiving Celebration. We were excited how they understand and accept it. We wrote on the invitation card: “The fruits and vegetables are welcomed from everybody on the Altar of the Chapel.”
And thanks for God: for the people it was a good opportunity to serve in God’s house. Hours earlier they just started to give gifts for the altar, and more and more families came and filled the first Thanksgiving Altar in the village. I dont remember if I saw ever such a big Altar… They just built it very creative and asked me again and again: “We dont know how to do it, is it so good and appropriate?”
The first Thanksgiving Service was a big occasion for the people, more guests arrived from the neighbour villages and cities. The preaching was near candles and a single small lamp, because the electricity was still not in. But the Gospel gave us light and created a warm community around the Good News. We were really thankful for the Lord.
The biggest gift came at the end for me. After the preaching a new member entered into the membership as the 12nd member of the local mission, and after she said “yes” to follow Christ and become a committed member, somebody steped to me after the service in front of the new Chapel in the growing November dark and asked: “How could I be the 13rd?”
I think this is one of the greatest question ever. How could I be the 13rd disciple of Christ? This chapel mission gives us again and again new experiences. We are very thankful for your help! And the last funny fact in this day: the November 3rd was the birthday of this “Future 13rd Member” and for me as well. So, we both received nice birthday gifts from God!
God bless you with love, peace and power!
Laszlo Khaled, 2018. November 22