A Decade of Faith: Thanksgiving Mass
The anticipation for The Lord’s Flock (TLF) UAE Chapter’s 10th Anniversary reached its peak on the weekend of September 9th. The day began with a heartwarming Praise and Worship followed by a Thanksgiving mass. The celebration was held at the humble yet blessed Room 6 of St. Mary’s Church in Oud Metha. This occasion was attended by one hundred and forty-four (144) members and guests face-to-face and ten (10) participants through Zoom. The atmosphere was filled with excitement as everyone came together in unity and devotion to celebrate the decade-long journey of the TLF Community in the United Arab Emirates.
The Moderator, Sis Janette Sagarino, facilitated the proceedings with grace and ensured that every moment of the celebration flowed seamlessly. She led the program by extending a warm welcome to new members as well as to the “Balik-Flock” members. This manifested the inclusive and welcoming nature of The Lord’s Flock, where each one is invited to be a part of the family in a place they can call home.
Praise and Worship
The event commenced with an outpouring of praise and worship which set the spiritual tone for the morning. Bro Ronald Sagarino, Sis Theresa De Jesus, and Bro Pat Inong, Jr. led the Psalm and Koros Ministries with their overwhelming voices, and everyone sang and danced their hearts out to honor and glorify the Lord.
The Mission Team from Manila, led by TLF Elder-Founder and Vision-Holder, Sis. Techie “Soar” Rodriguez and the Co-Founder Bro. Froilan Hong graced the morning as special guests; they were accompanied by Bro Bro. Mel Capistrano and Sis. Lea Tapispisan (Pastor Head Steward).
Sis Techie Rodriguez narrated parables in a spiritually-enriching session which emphasized the importance of trusting God and His ways. Her wisdom and storytelling captivated the audience, and she reminded them of the profound lessons embedded in the stories of faith.
Celebration of the Holy Eucharist
The day’s highlight was the solemn Mass officiated by Rev. Fr. Leny Escalada, OFM Cap. This sacred moment allowed everyone to come together in communion and to reflect on their faith’s significance in their lives. Fr. Leny gave a beautiful reflection and inspiring message from the Sunday Gospel from the Book of Matthew 18:15-20: “If A Brother Sins Against You.” He encouraged the TLF members to constantly share what is written in the scripture, correct with love, be accountable to one another, and to always do what Jesus did. He also invited everyone to be the prophets in the digital world.
Furthermore, a personal testimony of God’s tremendous blessings followed. Sis Lea Tapispisan (TLF Philippines Steward of Pastor Ministry) shared a moving testimony of how God had answered her prayers, particularly when she asked for a car to help her in efficiently serving the community. Her story was a powerful reminder that faith, rooted in unwavering trust, can lead to miraculous blessings.
The Rekindle Chant
The morning festivities concluded with a crescendo of praise songs that filled the room with vitality. The enthusiastic Bro. Pat Inong and Sis Aika Vilarmino led the group in performing the 2023 Rekindle chant which energized the crowd. This song beautifully encapsulated the anniversary spirit and became the unifying anthem which brought everyone together in harmonious music and dance.
The celebration ended with photo ops with Soar, Bro. Froi, the mission team, all the members and guests. Everyone enjoyed a sumptuous lunch and continued to share their joy with one another.
Indeed, the special weekend morning was a special blessing as everyone rejoiced and celebrated their collective faith journey with hearts full of joy and gratitude.
To God be the glory!
Written by: Sis. Kristin Benze Ayuso (TLF UAE)
