A group of 40 young musicians aged between 9 to 19 from the Asia-Pacific International University (AIU) church in Thailand decided to use their short Christmas break to minister in Hong Kong and Macao.
It was not an easy decision for the Precious Hands Ensemble (PHE), an orchestra of the AIU church, to choose to travel and minister to one of the world’s most expensive regions. Nevertheless, with prayer, faith, and meticulous planning, the ensemble shared their love for Jesus and exchanged cultural values through music at various Adventist churches and schools from December 13-17.
In August, when Frank Wai-ming Tam, president of the Hong Kong Adventist College (HKAC), visited AIU, PHE leaders met with him and expressed their desire to visit and minister in the Chinese Union Mission (CHUM). Wai-ming Tam encouraged them to go ahead with their plans and provided the initial logistical support, including discounted accommodation and meals at HKAC.
Because of this support, the ensemble performed at Bayview church, Hong Kong Adventist Academy (HKAA), Hong Kong Adventist International church, Tai Po Sam Yuk Secondary School, and Macao Sam Yuk Middle School.
Children’s Ministry Initiative
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit in 2019, AIU Children’s Ministries realized that they were left with few options. But the team realized that many children were able to play musical instruments and decided to form a string ensemble under the leadership of Mallen Cortes, Mella Mae, and Kathleen Yonathan, resulting in the birth of the ensemble in 2020.
Since then, they have performed in church services, represented Thailand Adventist Mission (TAM) at Southern Asia-Pacific Division (SSD) Children’s Ministries anniversary event, held Christmas concerts, and participated in a charity concert at Thailand’s famous Mahidol University. The ensemble also organized benefit concerts for the less fortunate and the Na-Ang church in Laos. Their ministry extends globally, with a recorded concert for Hope Channel Southeast Asia inspiring many, including non-Christians.
The Precious Hands Ensemble with Hong Kong Adventist Academy administrators and teachers [Photo: HKAA Marketing] The Bayview church in Hong Kong enjoyed the performance of the Precious Hands Ensemble from Thailand. [Photo: HKAA Marketing] The Precious Hands Ensemble is a self-supporting ministry of the Asia-Pacific International University church in Thailand. [Photo: HKAA Marketing]
‘Like Compiling Little Rocks to Build an Altar to Glorify God’
The PHE was diligently involved in the fundraising for their ministry trip to Hong Kong and Macao, showcasing their unity and determination. Planning began in August with prayer and deliberation about the significant costs involved. By September, fundraising strategies were finalized, including selling food, producing T-shirts, and organizing concerts.
Concerts proved to be the highlight, evolving into a church tour with four nights of carolling. Despite the stress of final exams and rigorous rehearsals, the kids performed tirelessly, earning significant support through donations. Parents of kids from the Korat Adventist International School (KAIS) in the Nakhon Ratchasima province of Thailand also contributed by selling bags. Approximately 35 to 40 families helped raise almost US$4,000.
AIU academic affairs vice president Kamolnan Taweeyanyongkul praised the group. “Only God can drive the hearts of PHEs,” she said. “We helped each other like compiling little rocks to build an altar to glorify God. Parents were supportive, and kids, though tired, enjoyed being part of the team.”
Spiritual and Cultural Exchange
At the Bayview church and at the Hong Kong Adventist International church on December 14, the PHE presented a captivating Thanksgiving musical concert, highlighting the spiritual essence of the holiday season. Featuring beloved hymns, the event resonated with themes of joy, hope, and gratitude. Instrumental performances, including a saxophone quartet rendition, added depth to the program. Through choir harmonies, Scripture readings, and the closing anthem “We Have This Hope,” attendees said they were inspired to reflect on Christ’s birth and its significance. The concert concluded with a prayerful blessing.
At HKAA and Macao Sam Yuk Middle School, the ensemble included secular and sacred pieces. Thai-inspired pieces highlighting the beauty of Thai culture resonated well with students and teachers. Festive Christmas songs concluded the show.
HKAA principal Ola Hall appreciated the efforts and sacrifices of PHE. “It was inspirational for our Adventist students to have an international sister school come to share their time, talent, and fellowship,” she said. “It was thrilling to see all our students intrigued by the cultural and musical feast with which PHE blessed us.”
*Joy Kuttappan is a teacher at Hong Kong Adventist Academy.