Cultural Awareness Week (CAW) celebrations at territorial headquarters (THQ) included a variety of activities designed to engage the campus around the theme BEYOND: Crossing Boundaries. Extending Borders. Embracing Others with the Gospel.
On Tuesday of CAW, the multicultural ministries department hosted the monthly luncheon. A delicious meal was enjoyed, and the lunchtime program included a drama called REACHING OUT, the viewing of “BEYOND,” a video which focused on Asian ministry in the territory, and an invitation for employee engagement using the activities provided in the BEYOND resource booklet.
On Wednesday, the department staff led the weekly chapel service. Our guest preacher was Major Steve Merritt, of the Rockford Temple Corps, who spoke on crossing boundaries to love and care for the other. Special music, EVERYONE BELONGS (John van de Laar), was presented by an ensemble of THQ officers and employees.
On Thursday, we held a lunchtime presentation called IMMIGRATION: BEYOND ASSUMPTIONS with special guests Matthew Soerens, U.S. Church Training Specialist for World Relief, who gave an update on the current status of Immigration reform; and Willie DeJesus, Associate Director of Youth and Residential Services for Immigrant Youth at Heartland Alliance, who shared his work with youth who’ve crossed the U.S. borders as unaccompanied minors.
BEYOND: Crossing Boundaries. Extending Borders. Embracing Others with the Gospel.