What does the visit of our Chief Apostle in Manila have to do with India? His program had a wide dimension: from ordinations and retirements, to concert, Divine Service and an Apostles’ meeting.
In November 2017, our Chief Apostle had ordained three Apostles for India at Raipur. One year later, District Evangelist Prem Mohan Ray received the Apostle ministry in Manila, Philippines.
Celebrating a new Apostle for India
On 18th November 2018, Chief Apostle Jean-Luc Schneider conducted a festive Divine Service at the Palacio de Maynila in the presence of a large congregation. The gathering included delegates from 20 countries – including 31 Apostles, 4 District Apostles, 3 District Apostle Helpers and 8 retired Apostles/District Apostles.
The Divine Service was based on James 1:12, “Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him.”
There were many emotional and very special moments throughout this Divine Service. For India, the highlight was when our District Evangelist Prem Mohan Ray from Odisha received the Apostle ministry. He will be looking after the congregations in Odisha and Chhattisgarh. This used to be Apostle Christ Ranjan Nanda’s area who will now be retiring at the beginning of 2019.
Historical Moments for South East Asia
District Apostle Urs Hebeisen entered into retirement after 43 years of ministerial services (36 years as Apostle and 10 years as District Apostle). He is succeeded by Edy Isnugroho who was appointed as the new District Apostle for South East Asia. These were very emotional moments for the whole gathering.
Along with Prem Mohan Ray, Bishop Samuel Tansahtikno also received the Apostle ministry; he will be working in the Philippines.
From left to right: Edy Isnugroho, Lucienne and Urs Hebeisen, Jean-Luc Schneider, Samuel Tansahtikno, Prem Mohan Ray
Musical Extravagance
Prior to the Divine Service on Sunday, there was a special evening of music and choir renditions at the Makati Church in Manila on Saturday. The hymns aptly suited this year’s motto “Faithful to Christ” and were thoroughly enjoyed by the audience.
Asia-Pacific Apostles Meet
On Monday 19 November 2018, our Chief Apostle conducted the Asia-Pacific Apostles Meeting during which the return of Christ and the understanding of our new concept of ministry were discussed.
It was a spiritually enriching experience for the Apostles from India during which they made many new friends across all borders.