By: Amando Bernal-Respicio Abellana Boncales
The Sabbath at Lakeview Seventh-Day Adventist Church was an extraordinary day of faith, music, and fellowship, drawing members and visitors together in worship and celebration. With a warm sense of community and spiritual upliftment, the day reflected the church’s commitment to fostering connection through shared experiences. The combination of heartfelt musical performances, a lively potluck, and birthday celebrations created an atmosphere of joy that was palpable from the moment the congregation gathered. This Sabbath encapsulated the church’s dedication to inclusivity, cultural diversity, and faith.
Celebrating Fellowship and Birthdays at the Monthly Potluck
The Sabbath celebrations began with two beautiful musical performances that set the tone for a day of worship. Music has always been a central part of the worship experience at Lakeview, and this day was no exception. The congregation was treated to inspiring melodies that filled the church, uplifting the spirits of all present. After the service, the much-anticipated monthly potluck offered an opportunity for members to come together, share food, and deepen their sense of community. The potluck was particularly special as it coincided with the birthdays of four beloved members: Elizabeth, Josephine, Isabel, and Eliza.
The birthday celebrations added a festive atmosphere, with the congregation singing joyful birthday songs and sharing stories of the honorees. The potluck featured a delightful array of vegetarian dishes, with a special emphasis on Filipino favorites like colored rice, vegan beef stew, and the popular pancit noodles. This blend of Western and Asian cuisine was a reflection of the church’s cultural diversity, highlighting its welcoming nature and the shared culinary traditions of its members.
A Divine Musical Performance
A highlight of the worship service was the divine musical performance by the four birthday celebrants. Their harmonious voices filled the church, creating a sense of peace and spiritual upliftment that touched everyone in attendance. The heartfelt performance resonated deeply, reminding the congregation of the power of music in worship and the collective joy that comes from shared faith.
Adding to the day’s musical beauty was Miss Janice, who delivered a soul-stirring solo performance of “Someone is Praying for You.” Her voice reverberated through the church, leaving the audience in awe of both the power of the lyrics and the strength of her performance. Dressed in a striking fuchsia red outfit, her presence was both visually and spiritually impactful, making the performance a deeply moving experience for all who witnessed it.
Continuing Fellowship and Celebration
Photo Courtesy: Amando Bernal-Respicio Abellana Boncales
The spirit of fellowship extended beyond the walls of Lakeview Seventh-Day Adventist Church. Following the service and potluck, members and visitors continued their day of celebration with a concert at Morton Grove Seventh-Day Adventist Church. The joyful atmosphere carried into the evening with a grand triple birthday celebration at the Calasangs’ home. The celebration was marked by warmth, laughter, and music, with impromptu karaoke performances adding a lighthearted touch to the gathering. Songs by The Carpenters filled the room with nostalgia, bringing the group closer together as they shared in the joy of music and community.
Filipino cuisine once again took center stage at the birthday celebration, with heavenly dishes that mirrored the vibrancy and hospitality of the congregation. The Calasangs’ home became a haven of love and connection, where fellowship flowed freely and the day’s blessings were celebrated in full.
A Global Church with Local and Worldwide Connections
Lakeview Seventh-Day Adventist Church is not only a local congregation but also part of the larger global community of Seventh-Day Adventist believers. The church’s mission extends beyond geographical borders, connecting members from diverse backgrounds, including those from Canada and the Philippines. Through the Technology and Innovation Ministry, the church has embraced modern tools to unite members worldwide. Hosting online morning devotions and evening worship services, Lakeview ensures that its congregation remains connected even when separated by distance.
This global outreach is complemented by the church’s dedication to local ministries, including the Singing and Music Ministry, which spreads joy and inspiration through music, and the Lifestyle Medicine Ministry, which integrates health and wellness into the church’s mission of evangelism. Lakeview’s commitment to combining traditional worship with modern outreach strategies allows it to transcend borders and build bridges between believers around the world.
Faith, Fellowship, and Inclusivity
At the heart of Lakeview Seventh-Day Adventist Church is a deep commitment to inclusivity, faith, and fellowship. Whether gathered in person for Sabbath worship or connecting through online services, the congregation embodies a spirit of unity and love. The diversity of its members, reflected in both cultural backgrounds and worship practices, creates a rich tapestry of shared faith experiences. This welcoming atmosphere makes Lakeview a true home for all who seek a place of belonging.
The Sabbath day at Lakeview, marked by music, celebration, and heartfelt prayers, was a testament to the power of community and faith. The joy of worship, the strength of fellowship, and the blessings of shared moments filled the day with laughter, love, and the grace of God. Through these gatherings, the congregation of Lakeview Seventh-Day Adventist Church continues to experience the transformative power of faith and the enduring bonds of fellowship, creating a global family united in purpose and devotion.
Published by: Nelly Chavez
