The Nazarene Compassionate Ministries Asia-Pacific (NCM AP) held a virtual Campaign Launch on 1 December 2024 with more than 100 individuals across the Asia-Pacific region. This event underscored the Church’s call to compassionate action and served as a starting point for this year’s NCM Sunday observances.
Leody Echavez, the Regional NCM Coordinator, opened the session with a heartfelt reminder of the Church’s mission. “Compassion is who we are,” he stated, emphasizing that NCM represents “the Church in action.” The event aimed to mobilize Nazarene churches to embody this mission through prayer, giving, and acts of service during the NCM Sunday season.
Lynne Bollinger delivered the keynote address. She offered an engaging reflection on the parable of the sheep and the goats from Matthew 25. Bollinger challenged the audience to see the face of Christ in those who are hungry, thirsty, or in need. “When we serve the least of these, we serve Jesus Himself,” she reminded participants, urging churches to prioritize caring for the vulnerable in their communities.
Asia-Pacific Regional Director Kafoa Muaror shared words of encouragement. Drawing from scripture and personal experiences, Muaror reminded attendees of their role as ambassadors of Christ’s light in their communities, to be a light, a model, and to serve with compassion. He urged participants to lead by example and inspire others through their actions. His message was a reminder that the Church is called not only to respond to immediate needs but also to serve as a source of hope, strength, and inspiration for those around them.
One of the event’s key highlights was the launch of the Crisis Care Kit (CCK) campaign. Designed as a practical way for churches to participate in Compassionate work, the campaign encourages congregations to assemble kits filled with essential items such as hygiene supplies and necessities. These kits will be stored in every field/district and distributed to individuals and families affected by disasters or crises.
Echavez explained the importance of the initiative, noting that it aligns with the mission of NCM to meet human needs with Christlike compassion. “The Crisis Care Kit campaign is a tangible way for churches to show love and care,” he said. “It’s a simple yet impactful expression of the Church in action.” Churches were encouraged to make CCK preparation a central part of their NCM Sunday celebrations aside from praying, involving members of all ages. By participating, congregations provide practical help and foster a spirit of collective service.
NCM Sunday is a pioneering event in Asia Pacific that invites Nazarene churches around the region to focus on compassionate ministry. It is a time to reflect on the mission of NCM, which includes addressing poverty through the local church, responding to disasters, promoting child development, and providing other forms of care in the name of Christ. This year, churches across the Asia-Pacific region are encouraged to celebrate NCM Sunday between December 1 and January 5. The campaign challenges congregations to:
- Pray: Dedicate time to intercede for those in need and for NCM’s global and local initiatives.
- Give: Collect offerings to support NCM projects that bring relief and hope to vulnerable populations.
- Serve: Organize community outreach activities, such as assembling Crisis Care Kits or engaging in acts of kindness.
As the event concluded, Echavez challenged all Nazarene churches around the region. “Let us come together as a body of Christ to celebrate NCM Sunday with purpose and passion. Pray for those in need, give generously to support compassionate ministries, and serve your communities with Christlike love.” By participating, churches can demonstrate that even small acts of kindness can bring significant transformation.
How to Get Involved
Churches interested in participating in NCM Sunday can take the following steps:
- Plan special services: Focus on themes of compassion and service, incorporating scripture, testimonies, and messages that inspire action.
- Engage in service projects: Assemble Crisis Care Kits, visit vulnerable populations, or host community outreach events.
- Promote the campaign: Use NCM’s resources to spread awareness among members and encourage involvement.
- Share your story: Post photos and updates on social media to inspire others and celebrate the impact of NCM Sunday.
For resources and additional information, churches can reach out to their Field NCM coordinators.
A Season of Hope and Action
The NCM Sunday Campaign Launch was a call to action for the Church to be Jesus’s hands and feet. With its focus on prayer, giving, and service, the campaign invites every Nazarene church to reflect Christ’s love and bring hope to their communities.
As churches across the Asia-Pacific region prepare to celebrate NCM Sunday, the hope is that this season will ignite a renewed spirit of compassion and a deeper commitment to serving “the least of these.” Through collective efforts, the Church can shine as a light and transformation in a world in need.
How to Get Involved
Churches interested in participating in NCM Sunday can take the following steps:
- Plan special services: Focus on themes of compassion and service, incorporating scripture, testimonies, and messages that inspire action.
- Engage in service projects: Assemble Crisis Care Kits, visit vulnerable populations, or host community outreach events.
- Promote the campaign: Use NCM’s resources to spread awareness among members and encourage involvement.
- Share your story: Post photos and updates on social media to inspire others and celebrate the impact of NCM Sunday.
For resources and additional information, churches can reach out to their Field NCM coordinators.
A Season of Hope and Action
The NCM Sunday Campaign Launch was a call to action for the Church to be Jesus’s hands and feet. With its focus on prayer, giving, and service, the campaign invites every Nazarene church to reflect Christ’s love and bring hope to their communities.
As churches across the Asia-Pacific region prepare to celebrate NCM Sunday, the hope is that this season will ignite a renewed spirit of compassion and a deeper commitment to serving “the least of these.” Through collective efforts, the Church can shine as a light and transformation in a world in need.
By Leody Echavez III
