Thanksgiving with the Cell Leaders Course

Last year, what I initially thought would be a simple trip to visit my family and explore Hong Kong turned into a journey filled with purpose. My younger sister Amber, whom I consider my spiritual mother, and her husband Aaron had experienced a profound change as a couple, as well as in their relationship with their son and family. They took us to 611 Bread of Life, where we attended worship, participated in a cell group, and joined the church anniversary. Everything we lived and experienced here filled us with faith and renewed our hope in Christian leadership.

Today, thanks to each of those moments (God-incidences), I reflect on the opportunity to complete the Cell Leaders Course at ANEW and receive the blessing and responsibility of establishing a cell group in Costa Rica. There is already one Spanish-speaking cell group here in Hong Kong. This vision is a gift from God for me, not in my time, but in His time.

In our first two sessions, Stella provided us with her experience, love, and confidence, affirming that we are ready. Sharing with her both in Costa Rica and Hong Kong, I felt the love of God reflected in her affection, care, dedication of time, attention to detail, and constant presence.

I loved the refreshing the icebreaker strategies with Robert. Above all, I was moved by his commitment to teach us despite having a severe cold. His co-instructor Aleph inspired me by showing us how to incorporate simple songs and other elements to worship God. Pastor Ben and Cmo Dinah emphasised the importance of focusing on loving people, reminding us that numerical growth is a natural consequence of the love and care Holy Spirit provides for others.

In the final two sessions, Pastor Richard, Sharon, and then Angel provided us with principles as well as practical tools for cell meetings. They helped us see that we shouldn’t wait for everything to be perfect to begin. Many times, we think we need more time or preparation, but God calls us to take the first step with what we already have.

Leticia Elizondo is from Costa Rica