The Lord’s Flock Catholic Charismatic Community UAE Chapter held a thanksgiving party at the Aloft Dubai Creek Hotel on 07 September 2024 to celebrate its 11th Anniversary. The leaders and members were super excited to celebrate with Elder-Founder Tatay Bob and the Mission Team who travelled from Manila to join this milestone event and to meet all the UAE members. Fittingly titled “A Decade Plus One, A Celebration of Steel and Sparks” the community members were grateful as they reminisced about their formative years, and felt hopeful that the Lord will continue to bless them with many more surprises in the years to come.
Opening Ceremonies
The emcees, Grace Malinao and Kieth Walter Ayuso welcomed the 170+ members and guests who dazzled in their impeccable outfits to lift the vibe of the colorful venue. Two stewards, Agnes Pilapil (Jebel Ali Chapter) and Paterno Inong (Abu Dhabi Chapter) led the opening prayer and opening remarks, respectively.
The sparkling celebration was made even more special by the esteemed presence of Elder-Founder Tatay Bob Rodriguez, who came with the couple Arch. Dinky (Execom) and Te Florentino (Equip Ministry Steward), and Mel Capistrano (Pastoral Steward of Harvest 1).
Inspirational Messages
The Comms Ministry prepared a heart-warming AVP which showcased the humble beginnings of the TLF UAE Chapter from 2013 to its present prominent times. The tribute got everyone emotional as the beautiful photos brought back sentimental memories, all wrapped up in a wonderfully created storyline designed to take everyone down memory lane.
Subsequently, inspiring messages were shared by Tatay Bob and the Mission Team. They all testified about their remarkable experiences in service to the Lord and how their lives changed for the better.
Tatay Bob’s 80th Birthday
The second part of the program was cheerfully led by Dhes Inong (PASTOR Ministry Head Steward); she was accompanied by the other stewards. The Community took the opportunity to give a surprise birthday celebration for Tatay Bob who celebrated his 80th birthday last August. Andrew Cabardo (Dubai Chapter Steward) led the toasting ceremony as Tatay Bob was honored with a cake, flowers, and gifts by the stewards. Dhes then extended a birthday greeting for Tatay Bob on behalf of the TLF UAE Chapter.
To cap the lovely birthday celebration, the adorable Small World group offered flowers, personalized hand-made cards, and a special song number, “In His Time” which is Tatay’s favorite song. He was truly touched as he appreciated the loving gesture of TLF UAE Chapter; he emotionally explained the meaning of the song to his renewed life as a servant of God and leader of the Community.
Entertainment
Five equally charming finalists were recognized for the Mr. and Ms. Sparks 2024. In the end, Lindon Ocampo of the Abu Dhabi Chapter and Gabrielle Labial of the New Gen bagged the titles of Mr. and Ms. Sparks 2024, respectively.
The excitement continued as the jaw-dropping ministry presentations lit up the dance floor. Each ministry carried its unstoppable dance grooves in the pursuit of capturing the hearts of everyone. The evening was filled with so much energy and enthusiasm that led even Tatay Bob and the mission team to join with their impromptu dance presentation. A finale dance performance encouraged everyone to join and dance the night away.
Thanksgiving Finale
In closing, Riemar Labial delivered the closing remarks and acknowledged the contributions of each member in shaping the community’s success and the remarkable growth. On the other hand, Jen De Castro solemnly closed the evening with a thanksgiving prayer.
The celebration may have ended but the immense feeling of joy and gratitude manifested into the group photo as they light-heartedly smiled for the camera, and received a TLF anniversary souvenir.
Congratulations to the TLF UAE Chapter for the exceptional 11th Anniversary celebration, and prayers and best wishes for the further expansion of God’s kingdom!
To God be the Glory!
SCRIBES Ministry
Kieth Walter Ayuso
(UAE Chapter)
