L. had to teach this morning, but we celebrated by going to the same Brazilian restaurant we went to for my b'day. This was dinner, so we had a live music played by a 3-person Brazilian bandgroup.
After dinner we walked to the subway station and went to a 3-self church for the Good Friday service. It was in progress when we arrived, around 7:30 pm. The church was dark, save a few dim lights. We sang several hymns, including "The Wondrous Cross". The Chinese hymns were very beautiful. The congregation's voices echoed warmly throughout the old church's walls. A couple of young women prayed, at times choking back tears, leading the church in confessional prayers, remembering and praising Jesus for his various sufferings, and quoting John 3:16. A man, presumably a pastor, encouraged everyone to be lights to the world in their faith. A choir later left, carrying lit candles. The church was full, tho' not overflowing. Not a bad turnout, tho', for a service on a weekday right after work for most people. It was mostly filled with young people in their 20's, I'd say. Both of us were touched by the sincerity of the service. It was entirely in Chinese, but hearts can be stirred despite the language barrier.
