On November 2, around 250 people gathered for the inauguration of the new building of the international church in Brussels, located at 17 Jacques Hoton Street in Woluwe-Saint-Lambert.
After cutting the symbolic ribbon, Yves Pierre and Christian Sabot introduced Paul Douglas, Treasurer of the General Conference, who gave a reflection based on Ephesians 2:4-7. Brother Douglas repeatedly emphasized our changed condition thanks to Christ, who saved us, seated us at the right hand of God, and showcased us. He then compared the church to that in Ephesus, where people from everywhere, from all nations, educated or not, rich or poor, gathered together. Paul Douglas reiterated that the church is not the building but the community of believers who make it up and come together there.
The potluck reflected this diversity: a multitude of dishes with spicy, colorful, and exotic flavors.
This inauguration also marked the 30th anniversary of the existence of the international church. It all started in the 1990s at the initiative of Pastor Henri Van Der Veken, who, with a core group of mainly Filipino members, sparked the creation of this church, which grew over the years into a true international community. Many members even wore their traditional attire to mark the event. Among the guests were several pastors who had led the congregation over the past 30 years, as well as many friends who were delighted to reunite and share common memories.
The official program, filled with testimonies, songs, and reflections, concluded with the sharing of the anniversary cake.
May the international church continue to push boundaries and shine in its new neighborhood.