Sunday 10^thFebruary 2019. The Hills Chapel and Hillsong’s main campus ground had a remarkable makeover. Red lanterns adorned the corridors leading to the main entrance.

Truly, the 11:15am Hills Chinese Service was extraordinary. The Chapel’s internal red backdrop was a delight, portrayed amidst an array of red and yellow lanterns on stage. The congregation was left in awe as they reminisce the eye-catching décor. Many have emigrated to this country, leaving their homeland and their cultural practices behind. For some, it has been decades; for others, it was just weeks prior. Yet, to see a Chinese New Year service, led by Hills Chinese Pastor Gordon Lee taking place in Sydney, in a foreign land to many, is truly inconceivable. Not with God though, for all things are possible though Him. He has indeed orchestrated this gathering, as expounded in 2 Corinthians 6: 16 – I will live with them and walk among them and I will be their God and they will be my people.

The second part of the celebration service commenced immediately after the Hills 6pm evening service, where the entire church was invited to stay back for the Chinese New Year gathering at the front lawn of the church. The front speakers were blaring upbeat Chinese New Year songs, which proclaimed joy, peace, prosperity and longevity. Not only were there many more red lanterns draping across structures over the front lawn of the church a sight to behold, there were many connect groups engaging with one another, whilst sharing an assortment of dishes: dim sim, spring rolls, rice, noodles and many others which traditionally accompany any Chinese New Year celebration. It was truly another milestone event for the Chinese community, as espoused by Multicultural Pastor Kim Brinsden. Hillsong’s “Welcome Home” does indeed give true and deep meaning to all who call Hillsong home.