Greetings!

Greetings, on behalf of the Senior Pastor, the leaders, and all members of the Earthen Vessel Church (EVC), we are pleased to welcome you, together we are celebrating and lifting our praises to the Lord for the works that He has been doing over the past 40 years.

I, Chau Nguyen believe that most of people who attend the anniversary of EVC have been witnesses to the faith journey of this congregation. Many of you were part of the journey in certain stages over the course of the past 40 years and some still are, even up to this point.

The beloved name “Vietnamese Kew Baptist” has been our identity for the past 40 years, however, with the relocation, it is no longer suitable. For that reason, we have embarked on a discussion for a new name, and on the 21st of March this year, we started a new chapter for our congregation with a new church name.

The process of selecting a new name took quite a bit of time because most of the good, meaningful and familiar names have already been taken like: Channel of Peace, Sion, New Ways, Cross way etc…

As we were considering the options available, we reflected on our place before God and our relationship with Him. We valued and wanted to emphasise living life as Christ’s followers with humility and obedience, willing to be guided and disciplined by God.

After a time of praying and discerning, we decided to choose the image of “Earthen Vessels” to declare who we are. Let me share with you the words of God in Isaiah 64:8, 2 Corinthians 4:7 and 2 Timothy 2: 20-21.

'Yet you, Lord , are our Father. We are the clay, you are the potter; we are all the work of your hand.'

'But we have this treasure in jars of clay to show that this all-surpassing power is from God and not from us.'

'In a large house there are articles not only of gold and silver, but also of wood and clay; some are for special purposes and some for common use. Those who cleanse themselves from the latter will be instruments for special purposes, made holy, useful to the Master and prepared to do any good work.'

The image of “Earthen Vessels'' reminds us of our physical nature, being made from dust, of no significant value, but in that, not only has God given us a soul made to be in His image, but he placed a precious treasure within us. God doesn’t stop there but continues his work of renewing and changing so we can reflect His glory.

The journey of 40 years came with many challenges, but God’s love and grace remains the same. He is faithful and His love endures forever.

Throughout tonight, we’d like to invite you to briefly partake in this journey with us as three members of our church come up to share.

First, representing the first generation, one of the longest members of this church will share with us the significant events of this congregation since it was established until now.

Then, representing a transitioning generation, or generation 1.5, will share with us about a ministry that our congregation has been actively involved in over the last 10 years. The ministry seeks to connect and partner us with other churches and organisations to bring the gospel to those who most need it around us and especially in the remote areas in Vietnam.

After that, representing the 2nd generation will share with us briefly the hope and longings we have as we look towards the future.

May the stories of our journey, the songs and the message tonight remind us well of God's amazing grace for all of us, even though we don’t deserve it.

Once again, thank you. May God’s name be glorified and the Holy Spirit be present in the midst of us as we gather to give praise to God.

Secretary - Chau Nguyen