2002 Peranakan Christmas Celebration
Puji Tuhan! Praise the Lord!
Jennifer Pei
Being a Chinese who does not know anything about the Peranakan language, I found myself in a familiar yet strange situation at the Peranakan Christmas Celebration held on 14 Dec 2002. The place was familiar, so were the people. But the whole celebration was done in the Peranakan language, which is foreign to me. However, that did not stop some PL staff (who are also foreign to the language) and me from joining in the fun and blessing. Indeed, we were all there to celebrate the love of the Lord.
The celebration kicked off with the screening of a Peranakan comedy show ‘Kalu Jodoh Tak Mana Lari'. Occasional bursts of laughter filled the Haven as the video was screened. Then Rev Wee said the opening prayer and Major Earl Robson led us into Praise and Worship. After a time of praising God, the mini Christmas concert began with a solo by Mdm Betty Thio, who sang the famous 'Begawan Solo' with Christian lyrics to the music accompaniment by Mr Eric Wee. Following this, the people were serenaded with more singing by the Peranakan Singers, a solo singing by Mr Jusuf Kam, and a duet by Ms Judith and Deborah, which brought the Christmas spirit to its climax.
After all the singing and clapping, we settled down to listen to the word of God being delivered by Mrs Phebe Kodrat. The evening ended with a time of eating and fellowshipping, not forgetting the nice little Christmas gifts that each one received.
It was indeed a pleasant evening spent with the Peranakan congregation that is very much a part of our culture and heritage. Puji Tuhan!
All are welcome to join in the Peranakan Saturday Fellowship at 4.00 pm and the Sunday Worship Service at 7.30 am. Please contact the church for more information.
