A Welcoming Sanctuary in the Southwest
On Saturday May 25th, under the morning sky and as the sun cast its golden rays over the Sonoran Desert, the doors to the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel were opened to thousands of parishioners who traveled to the greatest of feasts.
A spiritual oasis was manifest as the Welcoming Ceremony to the Holy Supper 2024 in Phoenix, Arizona, officially began with sentiments of love, fraternity, and unity. Smiles filled with joy could be seen throughout the room as the brethren arrived to participate in this Holy Convocation. A blissful aroma of hope permeated the halls wherein the brethren were ushered to the place prepared for English and Spanish ceremonies, which would be held simultaneously.
As the brothers made their way, melodies in the distance filled the air, it was the choir of the Church of the Lord declaring their presence, singing beautiful melodies of praise and worship to our God and HIS beloved Son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
At 10 a.m. the Welcoming Ceremonies commenced, both in English and in Spanish. Amidst those gathered for the ceremony, a message of fraternal welcoming, love, and hope echoed as the brethren meditated on the redeeming sacrifice of our Lord Jesus Christ.
The flag of the United States opened the procession, followed by ministers from El Salvador and Mexico. Afterward, the ministers from the attending states walked the aisle, led by their respective flags. As the presiding minister called out their names, the congregations of Arizona, Nevada, New Mexico, and Utah, manifested their presence during the procession, marching down the center aisle of the venue.
As the choirs lifted their voices, singing the hymn “All Ye Welcome”, attendees of Phoenix’s ceremony embraced one another in a heartfelt, fraternal gesture. Faces were aglow with joy and happiness, and greeted each other warmly.
United in gratitude, the parishioners gathered collectively and give thanks to God for the blessing of this gathering, and the opportunity to once more attend the Holy Supper.
