While remaining within the strict guidelines and measures of COVID-19 prevention and control, Guangdong CC&TSPM held a retreat for newly ordained pastors.
From August 10 to 12, 35 pastors attended the event in Guangdong Union Theological Seminary including those ordained in 2020 and others to be ordained in 2021, according to CCC&TSPM.
In the opening ceremony, Rev. Fan Hong'en, chairman of Guangdong Provincial TSPM, urged the new pastors to dedicate themselves to follow Christ and serve Him till their death in his sermon titled Follow Me.
In these courses given in the retreat, such as "Baptism, Communion and Ordination", "Worship Etiquette", "Norms and Guidelines of Sacraments" and "The Calling and Image of Pastors", attendees learned the theological significance of baptism, communion, and ordination, as well as the specific steps of each sacrament. During the evening prayer meeting, new pastors were reminded of the vision of the initial call, regaining their strength.
An official from the Guangdong Provincial Ethnic and Religious Affairs Bureau was invited to interpret The Regulations on Religious Personnel, so as to better regulate the governance system of Guangdong CC&TSPM, helping pastors to better understand the legislation, enabling them to carry out church affairs in accordance with laws and regulations.
- Translated by Abigail Wu
