By coincidence, I ran into the worship service of our renting congregation, the United Church of God (UCG), right here in our sanctuary. It was Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, and I noticed the many cars parked outside. Out of curiosity, I stepped in and was able to witness their service firsthand.
Now, here’s a fun fact: I actually happened to be born on Yom Kippur according to the Jewish calendar! Perhaps that means I should have an extra sense of solemnity built into me… though Iris might tell you otherwise.
Yom Kippur is the most important festival in the Jewish calendar. In Scripture (see Leviticus 16 and 23), it was the one day of the year when the High Priest would enter the Holy of Holies to offer atonement for the sins of the people. For Jews, it remains a sacred day of repentance, fasting, and reconciliation with God.
For us as Christians, Yom Kippur takes on an even deeper significance. We believe that Jesus Christ has fulfilled the very meaning of the Day of Atonement. He is our High Priest and also the perfect sacrifice, once for all. As the book of Hebrews reminds us, Christ entered the heavenly sanctuary not with the blood of animals but with His own blood, securing eternal redemption for us (Hebrews 9:11–12). What was foreshadowed in the Old Covenant is completed in Him.
Their service was biblically grounded, filled with Scripture, fasting, and prayer. The UCG holds some distinct theological values: binatarianism (affirming the Father and the Son as divine while also recognizing the work of the Spirit), the observance of dietary laws, and a very disciplined approach to stewardship. Members are expected to tithe a full 10% of their income to the church. While I do not fully align with all their doctrines, I was struck by their seriousness in honouring God with both their worship and their giving.
One detail that stood out to me—and gave me a smile—is that they celebrate communion only once a year, at Passover time. While that’s their rhythm, I must say that I do love our tradition of gathering at the Lord’s Table more frequently. Each time we share bread and cup, we are reminded afresh of Christ’s presence, grace, and sacrifice for us.
I also had the joy of meeting one of their deacons, Sunil, who has been attending UCG for over forty years since he was 18. Many in their congregation have shown the same steadfast devotion over decades. It is a blessing to share our space with such a faithful community.
Perhaps in the future, God may give us opportunities to grow closer in fellowship—through a combined communion service (whether once or many times a year!) or even a potluck meal together.
May the love of Christ bind us together as one Body, faithfully serving Him.
Strengthened by His Spirit,
The Rev. Eric Lee
“For just as each of us has one body with many members, and these members do not all have the same function, so in Christ we, though many, form one body, and each member belongs to all the others.”
– Romans 12:4-5 (NIV)