Opening Ceremony

Opening Ceremony: Wow!

On Sunday afternoon the Cape Town 2010 Congress began with the official opening ceremony. It was incredible to walk into the Cape Town International Convention Center with so many people from all over the globe. So many were dressed in traditional formal costumes for the opening ceremony. This event is historic in that it is the largest gathering ever of Christians from around the world - literally about 200 nations. Never in history has this happened.

To enrich and maximize the experience they have everyone seated at tables of six for almost all sessions. By doing this the experience is more interactive, participatory, and relational. At my table we have a varied group from four continents. I will share later more about my group.

The opening ceremony was rich with colorful expressions of welcome from all over Africa. The music, dance, costumes, African drum group, video of sights and sounds of Africa was expressive, powerful and beautiful. Then we had a multi-ethnic global choir, orchestra, drama team and a multi-ethnic worship band.

The evening was a great delight as we lifted our voices and sang praises to the Lord in English, Arabic, Chinese, Spanish, German, French, Zulu, etc..., etc... I honestly do not think I will taste again this side of eternity what is a reflection of Revelation 5 and 7 - "and I saw around the throne a people from every tribe and tongue and people and nation praising the Lord and saying..."

I am so humbled to be here! At the end of the day how do you express something so profoundly special, beautiful, meaningful, spiritual, personal?

All I can say is: WOW!

Blessings

Mike