The success of the first “Enriching Life Series” among Pastor Wu Yuzhuang’s (WYZ) adult cell groups led to its sequel, “Enriching Life Series 2”, which took place in October.
The first series, held in July 2008, taught members how to build relationships with friends, how to find the right partner and how to be a better companion in marriage. The series ended off with a spectacular event at Mount Faber where couples were given the opportunity to learn ballroom-dancing.
Sharing his vision for this second series, Pastor Yuzhuang says, “It has been in my heart to focus on building up the adults in the zone. This is an avenue where people can learn practical skills to improve their image. It also encourage singles to interact. Our first ‘Enriching Life Series’ was a great success and we wanted to build on it further.”
Themed “Dare to be You!”, the three-part series offers a full suite of practical lessons focusing on image. The first session emphasized building on one’s self image on the inside while the second will feature etiquette and personal grooming by professional image consultant Jill Lowe. The highlight of the final session will be a ‘Dare to be You!’ makeover contest for all participants.
“Enriching Life Series 2” kicked off on 3 October with fun and games. Teams were made to bring out their best “marketplace models” to parade their fashion sense and confidence. One recently married couple, voted to be their team’s “marketplace models” showcased their relevance to the marketplace with their smart business attire. The wife, serving in the makeup ministry, confidently boasted of her husband’s immaculate fashion sense, personal grooming and the fact that he went for massages!
Focusing on the theme of “image”, Pastor Yuzhuang shared insights on self-image that brought revelation about one’s true image in God. He shared that while studies showed people who underwent plastic surgery received a boost of confidence after surgery, this boost was only temporary. Confidence did not last beyond a few months as those who suffer from low self-esteem continued to view themselves negatively, and their newly constructed and improved bodies or faces had little or no effect in bringing them lasting happiness.
Our happiness is largely dependent on the condition of our inner portrait; how we act, feel or behave must be consistent to our self-image, regardless of the reality of that image.
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| PHOTOS: George Tan |
Quoting a personal example, he shared about being elected “Mr Ekklesia” years back at a dinner and dance event. At that time, he was struggling with his self-image and considered being voted the “most handsome” a big joke. He hated the title “Mr Ekklesia” and wanted desperately to pass it on to next year’s winner. God eventually renewed his thinking and restored his confidence and self-image.
Many members were touched by his message, and felt encouraged to embrace the truth of who they are in Christ. “I feel that the message on self-image is relevant to people from all stages of life. Even as a student it’s easy to get into negative confession when faced with pressure. I am determined to start to confess positively into my spirit and reap a good harvest,” says Isaac Chua, a student from Singapore Management University (SMU).
“The series has motivated and challenged many of us to renew and change the view of ourselves both inwardly and outwardly,” says relationship manager Diana Tay. “We are definitely looking forward to the next two sessions — already we are more confident in finding the right partner and reaching out in the marketplace!”
