By: Amando Bernal-Respicio Abellana Boncales

The Sabbath at Lakeview Seventh-Day Adventist Church was nothing short of extraordinary. It was a day filled with praise, music, and a deep sense of community as members and visitors gathered for a memorable worship service. From the heartfelt performances that touched every soul in attendance to the delicious potluck that followed, the day was a perfect reflection of the church’s spirit of fellowship and faith.

Celebrating Fellowship and Birthdays at the Monthly Potluck

The day’s celebrations began with two beautiful musical performances that set the tone for the service. The heavenly melodies filled the church, uplifting the spirits of all present. Music has always been a central part of worship at Lakeview, and this Sabbath was no exception. After the service, the church’s much-anticipated monthly potluck provided the perfect opportunity for members to come together, share food, and celebrate with joy.

This particular potluck was even more special, as it marked the birthdays of four beloved members—Elizabeth, Josephine, Isabel, and Eliza. The birthday celebration added a festive air to the gathering as the community joined in singing joyous birthday songs. The potluck featured a delightful mix of vegetarian dishes, with a special emphasis on Filipino favorites such as colored rice, vegan beef stew, and the ever-popular pancit noodles. The blend of Western and Asian cuisine was a testament to the diversity and inclusiveness of the congregation, which draws members from various cultural backgrounds.

A Divine Musical Performance

The highlight of the worship service was a performance by the four birthday celebrants, whose angelic voices graced the congregation with a harmony that felt truly divine. Their song brought a sense of peace and spiritual upliftment to everyone in attendance. As if that wasn’t enough, Miss Janice delivered a soul-stirring solo of “Someone is Praying for You,” her voice reverberating through the church in a way that left the audience in awe. Dressed in a stunning fuchsia red outfit, her performance was not only visually striking but also spiritually powerful, resonating deeply with all who heard her.

The energy of the day didn’t end at Lakeview. Following the service and potluck, the group continued their fellowship with a concert at Morton Grove Seventh-Day Adventist Church. The day’s events culminated in a grand triple birthday celebration at the Calasangs’ home, where the atmosphere was filled with warmth, laughter, and music. The celebration featured a feast of heavenly Filipino dishes, and the joy of the occasion was amplified by impromptu karaoke performances, with classic songs by The Carpenters adding to the sense of nostalgia and community.

A Global Church with Local and Worldwide Connections

As part of the Seventh-Day Adventist Global Apostles, the congregation is committed to sharing their faith through music and service. This Sabbath was a perfect example of that mission, as the performances and fellowship brought people together in a shared sense of purpose. The day was a celebration of faith, community, and the blessings of life, with the pastor’s touching benediction at the birthday celebration further reinforcing the sense of unity and grace that marked the entire day.

What truly sets the Lakeview Seventh-Day Adventist Church apart is its global outreach and commitment to inclusivity. With members hailing from across the globe, including Canada and the Philippines, the church’s mission extends beyond geographical borders. Through its Technology and Innovation Ministry, the church connects members worldwide, hosting online morning devotions and evening worship services. This innovative approach allows the congregation to maintain a sense of unity and fellowship, even when separated by distance.

Chicago may be the home base, but the reach of the Lakeview Seventh-Day Adventist Church is global. Their ministries reflect a dedication to spreading the message of faith, health, and community. The Singing and Music Ministry brings joy and inspiration to local churches, while the Lifestyle Medicine Ministry uses complementary and alternative medicine as a means of evangelism. This blend of traditional worship and modern outreach embodies the church’s mission to build bridges and transcend borders.

Faith, Fellowship, and Inclusivity

At the heart of the church is a deep commitment to welcoming diversity and celebrating the unique backgrounds of its members. Whether they are gathered in person for Sabbath fellowship or connected through online services, the congregation is a family united by faith. It is this spirit of inclusivity and love that makes Lakeview Seventh-Day Adventist Church a true home for all who seek a place of belonging.

This incredible Sabbath day, marked by music, celebration, and heartfelt prayers, is a testament to the power of faith and community. From the stirring performances at Lakeview to the grand birthday celebration, the day was filled with blessings, laughter, and the grace of God. Through their fellowship, the church members were reminded of the strength that comes from shared worship and the joy that flows from being part of a global family of believers.

Published by: Josh Tatunay