All One in Christ
Five languages. Many cultures. One shared faith.
On Saturday, September 12, Grace Chinese Baptist Church of Richmond was filled with music, movement, prayer, and fellowship as people gathered for HerMission’s Multicultural Missions Celebration. Inspired by Galatians 3:28, the theme “All One in Christ” came to life throughout the day.
Scripture was read in Burmese, Chinese, Korean, Spanish, and English. Korean and Burmese dance, children’s Nanta dance, congregational worship, choir, violin, piano, and harp filled the sanctuary. Each expression was distinct, yet together they offered a beautiful picture of the many ways God’s people worship Him.
HerMission President Winnie Wang guided us through the celebration, and Executive Director and Treasurer Dr. Bethany Warren Hunter welcomed those gathered. HerMission Hispanic Strategist Marisa Sanchez prayed in Spanish and English, allowing everyone to hear the same prayer expressed in two heart languages. Together, we also raised funds for the Alma Hunt Offering for Virginia Missions, helping support missions and ministries across the Commonwealth..
It was especially meaningful to welcome Dr. Valerie Carter Smith, former Executive Director and Treasurer HerMission, as our keynote speaker. Her message reminded us that our different stories and backgrounds are part of the work God is doing through His Church.
Following lunch, attendees gathered for breakout sessions led by missionaries and ministry leaders. These sessions brought together voices from across HerMission’s ministries, CrossRoads, national WMU, and the mission field, including Joy Lee, Korean WMU Consultant for national WMU.
The celebration reflected the vision and leadership of HerMission Multicultural Strategist Esther Shin. Her heart for connecting people across cultures was evident in every detail, from the multilingual Scripture reading to the performances, conversations, and shared time around the table.
We are grateful to Grace Chinese Baptist Church of Richmond for welcoming us, to every church and ministry represented, and to the performers, speakers, volunteers, and Multicultural Council members who made the day possible. We also thank BGAV and NorthStar Association for their generous support.
The day reminded us that unity does not erase what makes each culture unique. Instead, Christ brings our many languages, traditions, and stories together into something beautiful.
We are many, but in Christ, we are one.
