A church in Yunnan Province held an annual Thanksgiving service to mark the autumn harvest, celebrating with over 800 believers from churches nearby.
Following the offering of chicken, pork, and fish on September 9, believers from Sailin Church in Lujiang Town, Longyang District, Baoshan City, as well as surrounding areas, especially the ethnic minorities, put on ethnic clothing on the nights of September 9 and 10, worshiping God with hymns of praise and dances.
On September 9, there was a baptism service for over 20 believers. Subsequently, three sermons themed “Thanksgiving” were delivered the next day, guiding believers to look up to the Lord with gratitude for His blessing.
Local pastors pointed out that young believers were encouraged to lead the musical and dance performances. Therefore, they could get acquainted with each other during the preparation and, moreover, establish families in Christ.
When it comes to this festival every year, pastors and elders from surrounding areas gather together, praying for needy patients.
The autumn harvest celebration in Baoshan City typically commences in September and concludes in late November. The timing of the local autumn harvest determines the date of the celebration. In regions with hotter and more humid climates, where the harvest occurs earlier, the event may commence sooner.
It is reported that such ceremonies are not only welcomed among believers but also admitted by non-believers. Villagers in surrounding areas will join the church’s activities, and their families will also receive believers from diverse places participating in the event.
- Translated by Poppy Chan
