About 250 of us from Hope UK, Hope Germany, Hope Czech, Hope Norway, Hope Italy and Hope Switzerland attended this annual Hope Euro Convention, which was held (for the 6th time) in Prague from 1st Aug till 5 Aug! Ps. Jeff from Hope S'pore and Ps. Prakich, our Hope Europe RMC (regional mission coordinator) were the main speakers.
I was really busy during the convention because i was put in charge of the program. As well as conducting workshops and worship leading. So busy until i lost weight, despite all the meals with lots of meats. To date (as in 14 Aug, 1 week after the convention), i've lost about 5 kgs! Hallelujah!!! Haha ... wish they were more conventions in a year to organize :D
Probably because i'm a 'veteran' in Hope family, all the teachings and biblical principles brought out by the speakers were reminders to me! What deeply struck me is the conversation I had with Ps. Prakich during one of the evening - where he revealed to me how Hope Germany works so hard in growing the church. I was further awe-struck when I chatted with Ps. Prakich over breakfast in Cesky Krumlov. The teams in Germany go all out in street evangelism, proclaiming boldly the gospel and truth to the people. Ps. Marcus for one, goes to university campus 2 to 3 times a week just to share the gospel. I ask myself, how many times have i done street evangelism in Imperial College (beside the fresher's week). Their vision for building strong and biblical churches in Germany truly amazed me as well. I sensed so strongly the Hope spirit in them! If we wanna see it happen in Hope London, we need to make a decision to let go of our pride, rights and preference, and work hard toward what God has called us to do!
The other thing God has challenged me is: 'Spend time with people'. Not just the normal 'yum-cha', 'makan' kind of spending time, but true genuine fellowship, 'eyeballs to eyeballs' conversation. I admit that I have been so task-oriented through out my ministry that I overlook the potential of the people under my care. I often shut myself off from people and focus on the things to be done. I find it really really difficult for me ... but I'll really try this time. For those reading this blog, please pray for me :)
So much about what I've received. I also thoroughly enjoy the food in Prague, as well as the infamous 'Cream & Dream' ice-cream. I also enjoy the company of brothers and sisters through out the whole tour in Prague town centre and Cesky Krumlov.
Sad to say that, we will not have Euro Convention next year ... hopefully it will be back in 2 years time! We will work hard and encourage each other in the Hope family with what we have done for God's kingdom.
The Kingdom of God is advancing!
Glad to be back in Praha!
If you wanna download some of the photos, or have a better view of them, go to http://picasaweb.google.com/eldosthen
Yanti, Alicia, Ivon and me
Tidal Wave - 100% guarantee to get wet sitting in the boat! Really big splash!
Stealth (roller coaster that last only 20 seconds but the most exciting ride among all) in water reflection
Anita - with the 3 soft toys we won thru the 'grabbing machine'. Guess we used about £10+ to get these toys
