At 7:00 p.m. on October 16, 2024, all students and faculty of Guangdong Union Theological Seminary gathered at the Xiehe Church for an Ordinary Time prayer meeting themed after “Meet and Come Close to God”.

In the Xiehe Church, a purple and white voile draped from the cross, extending into the midst of the praying crowd. All kneeling students and faculty faced the cross to seek the presence of God. The luminous cross and golden candlesticks, blending with the flickering candlelight among the congregation, created a sacred and intimate atmosphere.

The prayer meeting was organized by teacher Zhang Jiu, the Director of the Office of Student Affairs, and hosted by student Xie Xin, the minister of the Devotional Department of the Student Union. The event began with the psalm singing and invocation, and it was followed by the praise, confession and prayer led by a prayer leader. The prayers included three main contents: reverence, confession and waiting.

All attendees interceded for the unity of the church, world peace, the prosperity of the country, social harmony and stability, as well as the deeper longing and pursuit of God.

Finally, Rev. Xue Hai’an led the thanksgiving prayer, offering the liturgy of commissioning and blessings for each and every one present.

Translator & editor: Bei Feng