Friendship In The Fellowship

A new heartwarming story of unity and fellowship emerged recently when our youth group visited our peers at St Stephen's Greythorn - which is a part of TIMA Anglican Parish, in Balwyn. The event was held to build relationships and bond between our church and their church. 

The idea of the visit emerged during a church leaders' meeting last May, attended by Melbourne Anglican ministers. The senior ministers of the two churches created the idea which underscored that congregations should come together in unity, especially their young people. Youth leaders from St. Stephen’s Greythorn welcomed us to their late-afternoon worship with their warmest hospitality. 

The visit was started off with a warm greeting from St. Stephen’s minister, Rev. Ben Wong, who lead us to a dedicated room for youth worship near the rear foyer. A worship session, featuring a full band by the youth and Rev Ben himself (Yes! He played the drum very nicely), and awe-inspiring messages was then highlighted. Following the service spent time getting to know each other - introducing ourselves and sharing inspiring stories.  

Everybody had a good time during this session, where new friendships were born. Then, before we knew it, it was already dinner time! 

It just so happens that the congregation of St Stephen's does very similar things to us: they share a meal together! However, as the services are in the afternoon, the meal they share is dinner. We were invited to join them for the meal, which we accepted and thus, we ate together while sharing stories around the table, deepening our friendship in the process.

As the day came to an end, we bid each other farewell with promises to keep in touch and to plan more events in the near future. This visit had such a great influence on both youth groups, creating such treasured memories upon each heart that boost the sense of community.

The visit to St. Stephen's Church showed that even the power of faith can bring people together. An essential message here is that despite these differences, we belong to one big interconnected family put together by values and mutual respect. Bridges can be filled with understanding and fellowship between the young to grow a closely knit and compassionate world.

Below is our photo together for good memories! Have a look!
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