Sunny Sunday in Beijing

A bright, clear, sunny day greeted us this morning when we opened our window curtains.  It has turned quite chilly and a mild breeze puts a crisp bite in the air.

Services at Beijing Chongwenmen Three Self Church

At 10:00 Grace and Rebecca met the team, Dennis and Jeremy in the lobby to take us to church.  The team teased Grace about the big comfortable bus that transported us.  Could it be that the luxury vehicle was used because Dennis and Jeremy were with us?  :-)   We happily took advantage and hope Dennis and Jeremy continue to get the royal treatment this week!  While the bus was comfy, it was not as “interesting” or fun as some "creative" conveyances some teams have enjoyed in the past.

 

Dennis and Jeremy with the team

The historic Chongwenmen Three Self Church is located down an interesting hutong street.  The church was established in 1870 when it was called Asbury Church.  It was the first church constructed by the American Methodist Church in Northern China.  We were warmly greeted and escorted to a pew that had earphones for interpretation.  Almost the entire service, including the sermon, were conducted by women.  This is not particularly unusual in China where there are many more women believers than men.
 

Loraine with Lynn interpreting 

Loraine and Mary left the group outside the church because they were scheduled to teach at a friend’s house church.  The rest of the team enjoyed lunch with Grace, Dennis, and Jeremy.  After lunch, the team returned to the hotel to begin packing. 

 

 

Mary with Rebecca interpreting

Grace had invited us to dinner at a restaurant where an M from Australia performs.  She has an amazing voice!  However, the team decided to rest up at the hotel for our excursion to the Great Wall in the morning.  The restaurant visit is something we can look forward to for our next visit!

Please remember Dennis and Jeremy to our Father tomorrow and during the week as they will doing His good work.

Mary for the China Dolls