Saturday, March 5, 2011

Wedding of Toh Soon and Barry Chittendon

Attended the wedding of Toh Soon and Barry this morning. It was conducted by Major Ruth Pascoe our Corps officer (pastor) We have known Toh Soon for many years and it was such to joy to be part of the congregation to witness this wedding. Toh Soon was one of the staff of the Children's Home at Pasir Panjang for many years.

The meeting began with the singing of the great hymn "How great Thou art"- Toh Soon's favourite hymn. Then it was my privilege to do the opening prayer thanking God for bringing us together for this special occasion and asking for His blessing specially for the bridal couple.

Sister Anne van Gaalen read the well known "Love chapter" 1 Corinthians 13. It was beautifully read with much feeling and it blessed us all. Anne and her husband served in Singapore and Kuching as Salvation Army officers many years ago. When we were Corps Officers (pastors) of Central Corps they were our soldiers and took very active part in the Corps. They related well with local folk and are remembered with much love and affection. She came specifically for the wedding.

William Booth Songsers sang Stan E Ditmer's song "I'm in His hands," At Toh Soon's request I sang the second verse as a solo. We thank God the couple know the Lord and are certainly in His hands.

In the congregation were many whom we have known for many years. They used to be children in the Children's Home at Pasir Panjang. Now they have their own families. A number of Toh Soon's relatives were present to celebrate with them.

Barry's brother Peter came from Sydney, Australia to be the best man. Barry is from Brisbane, Queensland.

This was the first time I've witnessed a wedding where the bride entered the church in a wheel chair and left in the same way.

After the wedding we all adjourned to the social hall for the reception. It was a time of good fellowship and enjoyment of good food provided by the couple.

I am pleased I belong to the family of God. William Booth Corps is like a family and there is wonderful support for each other.

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