To all Americans and the rest of the world, 9/11 will always be an unforgettable day. But to the brothers and sisters of EFC Hacienda Heights, 9/11 carries an even greater significance. 34 years ago, EFC East Valley realized the need to spread the gospel; therefore, they sent out a group of passionate brothers and sisters to Hacienda Heights for a church planting initiative. In the year 2000, by the grace of the Lord, blessings from God, and the hard works of brothers and sisters, the church completed its building project. The Chinese name of EFC Hacienda Heights carries the meaning of “a church that is Holy Spirit filled, where the Holy Spirit dwells and flows.”
On September 11, 2022, the church celebrated its 34th anniversary with a joint worship service. Besides baptism and communion, Rev. Chien-Kou Shieh also invited brothers and sisters that were at the church during 1988 onto the stage. He then invited the fifty some brothers and sisters who were baptized at EFC Hacienda Heights over the years to the stage for a group photo, it was an amazing moment.
During the service, Rev. Shieh used 2 Thessalonians 2:13-17 as the base scripture to encourage the congregation with a message titled “Obtaining the Glory of Our Lord Jesus Christ.” Following the message was greetings and congratulatory videos from Rev. Samuel Kau, who helped shepherding in early years, and Rev. Daniel Chang from Taiwan. At the end, various fellowships, cell groups, as well as English congregation, all made videos to share the joy of this special occasion.
I had the honor of attending the celebration on behalf of EFC General Assembly, besides expressing my appreciation to EFC Hacienda Heights for their continual support of General Assembly’s various ministries, affirming the fruits the church had bear over the years, I also led the congregation in reciting the vision EFC Hacienda Height had received, which is 1) Serve the community, proclaim the Gospel. 2) Make disciples, love God and neighbors. 3) Love one another, follow in Jesus’ steps. As the service came to a close, Rev. Shieh led the congregation in singing “O Come, Let Us Sing.” It was a beautiful and memorable spiritual feast!
