Today I was invited to talk about my future ministry in Athens by a lovely small SDA church in Bury St. Edmunds. Its humble buildings, its genuine worship, its culturally diverse congregation impressed me immediately. I walked into a place of rest…
I was received with big smiles and open hearts, even though I didn’t know anyone except their pastor who took me there. Although I am not a member of their denomination, the feast on God’s word and their common meal was extended to include me. Marianna asked me: “Do you love Jesus?” I said “Yes!” “Then you are our sister”, she replied. As simple as that!
We sang a few hymns and the morning lesson was on the topic of “meekness”. “Blessed are the meek, for they shall inherit the earth” (Matthew 5:5), a very bold statement for a small church to make. But then, a poor young man from Nazareth made it against a Roman empire, which was in fact attempting to inherit the earth. A persecuted poor church documented it and passed it on as their members were being put to death. And it is still in the lips of the “meek” today, in perfect continuity with the past.
The simplicity and genuineness of this church’s worship was striking. It was a privilege to witness the ordination of two deacons, Limbani and Antonio, and see the hands of the church touching them in approval, in trust, in unity. Thank you for sharing your “rest” with me on this Sabbath day!
4Torah 
All I can say is, “Wow”!, “Alleluia”! “PTL”!, and thank you so very much for enriching our own Christian experience and witness by sharing your amazing life’s journey with the Lord. Blessings to you Myrto!
My dearest friend, I am praying that you will be a blessing and an inspiration for many every time you share your passion for God’s Word.
Thank you lovely lady 🙂
It’s great that the church was so welcoming. I hope that more and more opportunities will open up for you to talk about your up-coming ministry. And that each place you go a few more people will be praying for you and supporting your work in the ways they can. All the best!
Thanks dear Mark!
I pray the same for you in Israel 🙂
Hello. Great to read of your visit and to read the rest of your blog. God bless you.
Are you ever likely to be in Berkshire? Would love to meet you!
I attend a similar Adventist Church in Maidenhead. We were able to purchase the church building last year. Historic as it is (similar to the one in the photo) we need to rebuild so that we can serve the community better and be more welcoming!
Miriam thanks for your comment. I hope to meet you one day 🙂
Very encouraged by reading this – shall take my courage in both hands next week and visit my local Seventh Day Adventist Church for the first time.