A Joyous Sabbath Celebration
BROKEN ARROW, OKLA. – In a heartwarming Sabbath service, the Broken Arrow Seventh-day Adventist church recently came together to celebrate the addition of a new member, Rita Shaw (pictured right), while also witnessing the remarkable talents of their primary-age youth. The day was filled with inspiration, faith and a generous spirit that left a lasting impact on everyone present.
The highlight of this special Sabbath service was the warm welcome extended to Shaw, a remarkable woman with a deep connection to the church. Shaw, who happens to be the mother of one of the church’s elders, Darren Shaw, joined the congregation on a profession of faith. Her journey to this point had been a nine-year-long spiritual quest that touched the hearts of many.
Shaw’s connection with the church began nearly a decade ago when her grandson, Daniel, was born. For the first six years, she attended both the Adventist church and her Baptist congregation, but three years ago, she felt convicted that the Seventh-day Adventist church aligns most closely with her interpretation of the Bible. Her dedication to her faith was evident as she actively participated in children’s ministries over the years, and now she’s set to lead the children’s Primary Division, where her influence promises to be a blessing to all.
The service took a captivating turn as the Primary-age youth of the church presented a skit that vividly portrayed the bravery of Queen Esther and her unwavering commitment to God’s people. The energy in the room was palpable as Shaw’s grandson, Daniel, had the honor of portraying King Artaxerxes, an important character in Esther’s story.
Following the skit, Darren delivered an excellent message that drew compelling comparisons between the characters in the story of Esther and those from the New Testament. His message emphasized the timeless relevance of the biblical narrative and resonated deeply with the congregation.
The service concluded with a touching act of generosity, reminding everyone of the profound sense of community and purpose within the Broken Arrow church. The children of the Kindergarten and Primary classes had been diligently saving a portion of their offerings for the past six months. Their mission was to contribute to a special project: buying goats for individuals in need through the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA).
Their efforts bore fruit, as the young group managed to raise a total of $80, enough to purchase two goats. However, the generosity of the church members knew no bounds. During the service, an astonishing total of $440 was collected, which translates to an impressive 11 goats. The offering truly showcased the boundless compassion and goodwill that exists within the church community, and it’s a testament to their commitment to making a difference in the world.
The recent Sabbath service at Broken Arrow church was a celebration of faith, love and generosity. The addition of our new member, the inspiring tribute to Queen Esther’s bravery and the remarkable offering for ADRA all came together to create a day of significance and unity within the church. As the congregation looks to the future, it’s evident that their faith and their love for one another will continue to shine brightly. Praise God for the new beginnings and the enduring spirit of this close-knit community.
By Carol Matthews
