On 27 October 2024, Wesley Methodist Church celebrated Hymn and Praise Sunday, a special service dedicated to uplifting our voices in song and honouring the pivotal role of our Worship and Music Ministry. Themed “The Great Invitation,” the sanctuary was filled with an air of joyful reverence as the Wesleyan family gathered to remember, repent and renew our spirits in the presence of God. Planned and led by our dedicated Worship and Music Ministry, the service was a joyous occasion filled with beloved melodies and timeless lyrics that have shaped the faith of generations.
I. Gathering
From the moment the instrumental prelude of “Speak, O Lord” began, a sense of peace washed over me. The familiar tune invited me to quieten my heart and embrace God’s presence as we gathered to worship Him as a church. The service began with joyous energy as the enthusiastic children and members of the choir opened with the hymns “Come with a Grateful Heart” and “Alleluia, Alleluia.” The Sunbeams Children’s Choir, with their bright smiles and pure voices, brought a special joy to the service. Seated in the first row, I witnessed their infectious enthusiasm, a reminder that at the heart of my relationship with God should be a simple, childlike faith.
Joining my fellow congregants in singing timeless hymns like “Blessed Assurance,” “It is Well with My Soul,” and “Alleluia, Alleluia,” composed in the 19th and 20th centuries, I felt a profound sense of connection—to God, to the rich history of our Christian faith, and to the community gathered in worship. The scripture readings, particularly Titus 3:5 and 2 Corinthians 5:17-18, spoke powerfully about the transformative grace of God. I was reminded that my salvation comes not through my own efforts, but through God’s mercy, who makes all things new. This message of renewal resonated deeply, offering hope and encouragement as I navigate a season of change and uncertainty.
II. Word and Reflection
The inclusion of Psalm 130, a psalm of lament, provided a space for honest reflection and surrender. The worship leader’s prompt to ponder “Are you currently in a situation that is weighing you down? Is there something in your life that you need to surrender to God?” resonated with me as I find myself weighed down by various duties, commitments, and concerns. It’s a gentle reminder that faith doesn’t exempt me from these things, but it can provide strength and perspective to navigate them.
This year’s Hymn and Praise Sunday also included personal testimonies, encouraging authentic sharing. Worship leader Wong Ee Hwee shared the significance of the numbers 369 in her life, connecting it to “Blessed Assurance” (hymn number 369 in the United Methodist Hymnal) and her family’s experience with Covid-19. In February 2020, Ee Hwee’s father spent 70 days in ward 3 of Tan Tock Seng Hospital battling Covid-19 while her sister was at level 6 and her mother was in level 9, also fighting Covid in the same hospital. Ee Hwee’s moving testimony of God’s goodness reminded me of His faithfulness in my own life.
A particularly moving moment was the sharing of a poem titled “Sovereign,” composed anonymously by a fellow church member and recited by Grace Seet during the service. The poem spoke of a parent’s journey through her daughter’s diagnosis of bipolar disorder. The raw and honest words reflected both the pain and fear, and at the same time, the unwavering faith that carries the parent through. It served as a powerful reminder of God’s presence during intense suffering and the strength found in leaning on Him.
The choral anthem, “All Things New,” based on Revelation 21:5-6, filled the sanctuary with hope. The choir’s voices soared, proclaiming the promise of a new heaven and a new earth. The lyrics, especially the lines “strength after weakness, crown after cross; sweet after bitter, hopes after fears; home after wandering, praise after tears,” resonated deeply with me. Isaiah 43:18-19 (“Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past”) brought further comfort and renewed faith in God’s plan for me.
III. Response and Thanksgiving
As we journey towards liturgical renewal at Wesley Methodist Church, the Holy Communion ritual was conducted with a fresh perspective. Partaking in the sacrament after soloist Kyle Hancock sang “Come to Me,” I felt a deep connection to God and my fellow believers. Sharing in the bread and the cup, we were reminded of Christ’s sacrifice and our unity in Him.
Hymn and Praise Sunday was truly an uplifting and inspiring service. Through worship, I experienced God’s presence. Through the words spoken and sung, I reflected on the grace He has given me. It was a testament to the power of music, prayer, and community to draw us closer to God and to one another.
IV. Sending Forth
As I left the sanctuary, I carried a renewed sense of purpose and hope. More than just heading home in my Grab ride, I felt like I was finally home with God after a busy period of wandering. The echoes of “crown after cross” and “home after wandering” resonated deep within my soul, a reminder that even in the midst of life’s uncertainties and busyness with worldly obligations and concerns, His grace is sufficient.
A Poem titled “Sovereign”
Is He sovereign
when Depression’s darkness falls
and threatens to rob her life
and take it all?
Is He sovereign
when Mania strikes its hand
and the brightness she sees
masks a danger’s brand?
Is He sovereign
When she fights an unseen enemy
And struggles with his lies
That clouds her mind endlessly
“Take it away!” I cried
“This is too much to bear.”
“Can you still praise me,” He whispers.
“And believe that I care.”
“Take it away!” I begged
Pleaded, even bribed.
“Will you still praise me,” He asks
“if healing is denied?”
I cling onto You, Lord
Please keep me faithful;
You are my only hope
Help me still be grateful
I cling unto You, Lord
Please let me remember
You are a promise keeper
Even when I falter
And so my journey continues
My wishes yet fulfilled
But you meet me in my valleys
You are Sovereign, still
-Anonymous
*This poem was shared during Hymn and Praise Sunday service.
Photos taken by Jon Chia
More Hymn & Praise photos available here
