In the early morning of July 2nd, the officers and brethren of the Local Congregation of Christchurch, New Zealand are gathered in the parking lot of the house of worship, currently, in its last stage of construction.
At around 9am, Constable Li’Ying Cai, a New Zealand Police Officer, pulled up into the parking lot. She was greeted with the smiles and cards of the members of the Children’s Worship Service. She accepted the cards wholeheartedly and stated that she would also give them to her colleagues who were not able to come because of another assignment on that day.
She sat and listened to the Introduction to the Church Of Christ, listened to the Storybots – Police Officer song, and then, gave a short talk about safety. After her visit, she brought back to the police station some gifts of appreciation, given to her and her colleagues for their work as police officers.
After she left, the brethren waited intently for the coming of the Fire Fighters. They were delayed in their arrival because of two emergencies that they needed to attend to first. But as the fire truck turned the corner, the brethren began to smile. As the truck backed into the parking lot and came to a stop, the children immediately went and greeted the firemen as they came down from the truck. They gave them their cards and said their thanks to the firemen.
They too listened intently to the Introduction of the Church Of Christ, as they sang the Storybots – Firefighter song. Then they gave a short talk about safety and using fire alarms. Afterwards, they were presented Gift Hampers by the Local Congregation, and in return, they gave the children a tour of the fire truck and let them come on board.
They educated the children on what firefighters do. The firefighters took their time, staying to talk to the brethren and taking pictures until they had to go. They thanked the members of the Church Of Christ for appreciating their efforts. Just like the police officer before them, they were invited to the chapel dedication and other events of the Church.
It was a truly blessed day for all. A day to remember as the members of the Church of Christ in Christchurch, New Zealand were able to give to those who risk their lives to take care of them. We thank the Lord God and the Lord Jesus Christ for blessing us with success in this endeavor. We also thank the Church Administration, through the leadership of Brother Eduardo V. Manalo, for approving this activity, which strengthened the bond between the members and the community.
Contributed by: The Local Congregation of Christchurch, New Zealand
