As the final hours of 2024 approached, our church family gathered for a profoundly spiritual and joyful occasion: the Watchnight Prayer Service. This special year-end and New Year celebration marked a time to reflect on the blessings of the past year and to step into the new year with faith, hope, and gratitude. Held at USPC Liverpool Malayalam Pentecostal Church, it was a memorable night that brought together heartfelt testimonies, uplifting worship, and cherished fellowship.
The service began at 9:30 pm with a solemn yet celebratory atmosphere as church members gathered to give thanks for the year gone by. Pastor Philip Varghese, our beloved spiritual leader, led the service with his inspiring words of wisdom and prayer. His message encouraged everyone to look back on 2024 with gratitude, recognising the moments of growth, challenges overcome, and blessings received. Pastor Philip’s heartfelt prayers reminded us of the steadfast love and faithfulness of God throughout the year.
Testimonies from the Church Family
One of the most touching moments of the night was the testimonies shared by church members. Each testimony was a powerful reminder of God’s presence in our lives, as individuals spoke of healing, provision, answered prayers, and spiritual growth throughout 2024. These personal reflections resonated deeply with everyone, drawing us closer as a community of faith.
Worship and the Lord’s Supper
The church choir enriched the service with their soul-stirring songs, leading the congregation in worship. Their voices united us in praise, creating an atmosphere of reverence and joy. The highlight of the service was the Lord’s Supper, where we partook in the Holy Communion, reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice and renewing our commitment to walk in His path. This sacred moment brought a sense of spiritual renewal and unity as we prepared to enter the new year with hearts surrendered to God.
Fellowship and Farewell to 2024
The service concluded at 1:15 am, but the night was far from over. After the benediction, everyone gathered to share a meal together, strengthening the bonds of fellowship within our church family. The food, laughter, and conversations created a warm and joyful atmosphere, setting the tone for a hopeful new year. At around 2:30 am, we bid each other farewell with promises to meet again later that day for the New Year’s Musical Evening.
New Year’s Musical Evening (1st January 2025)
At 3:00 pm, the church came alive once more for a spectacular New Year’s Musical Evening, a gathering filled with joy, music, and togetherness. Families, couples, and children participated enthusiastically in a variety of activities that showcased the unity and creativity of our church community.
The event featured:
- Family Songs: Families came together to sing hymns and songs of praise, reflecting their shared faith and love.
- Couple Duets: Married couples performed heartfelt duets, symbolising their unity and gratitude for God’s blessings in their lives.
- Children’s Programmes: The children charmed everyone with their storytelling, quizzes, and songs, reminding us of the beauty of childlike faith.
- Quiz and Storytelling: Engaging quizzes and inspiring stories brought everyone together in laughter and learning.
The evening was filled with music, laughter, and heartfelt fellowship. The church choir once again led us in worship, while the joyful participation of every member, from the youngest child to the eldest, created an atmosphere of hope and celebration. The event was a reminder of the importance of togetherness as we stepped into 2025 with renewed faith and anticipation of God’s blessings.
A Time of Reflection and Renewal
Both the Watchnight Service and the New Year’s Musical Evening were opportunities to reflect on the past year, to seek God’s guidance for the future, and to renew our commitment to living in faith. As a church, we submitted our plans and hopes for 2025 into God’s hands, trusting in His divine providence and love.
These moments of worship, fellowship, and celebration reminded us of the strength we find in unity and the joy of being part of God’s family. As we step into the new year, we do so with hearts filled with gratitude, hope, and anticipation for all that God has in store for us.
To God be all the glory!