On 12th August, St Matthew’s Asian Congregation took their weekly service of worship out on the road. About 50 people, adults and children, gathered in the Church car park early Sunday morning to catch a coach to London where they led worship live on the digital channel,’ Wonderful television.’
Beginning with an introduction and prayers in English led by Revd Paula Smith, Curate at St Matthew’s Walsall, worship continued with prayers and songs in Urdu, Hindi and Panjabi. The music was led by a group of musicians and singers. In fact this is not the first time this group has sung outside Walsall; last year they won several trophies in various Asian Concerts.
Revd Fiaz Samuel, Pastor of the Asian congregation preached from Paul’s letter to the Romans on,’ God’s method of salvation;’ sending a clear message that God’s word is for everyone.
Talking with him after the service, Pastor Fiaz commented,’ I am encouraged by the feedback I have heard.’ The Director and Chair of Voice of People Television Network, Mr Ashar Mall was clearly excited by the visit. As well as his role at St Matthew’s, Revd Fiaz has responsibility in the Lichfield Diocese as Asian Missioner, encouraging Asian Christians in their faith and exploring opportunities for other Asian congregations to be established in the area.
St Matthew’s Asian Congregation is the first Asian Congregation in the Diocese. It began with a small group of people who met together as an Urdu and Panjabi prayer group early in 2003. The congregation has since grown and now hold weekly services in St Matthew’s Centre each Sunday afternoon.
See other articles on the Asian Church at St Matthew's
Contact and further information from; St Matthew’s website
Revd Fiaz Samuel ; fiaz.Samuel@lichfield.anglican.org