At 5:15 a.m., before the first light of dawn had pierced the darkness, my friend and I bundled up in our coats and stepped into the brisk morning air. The city of Haozhou, Anhui Province was still asleep—only a few cars sped past on the quiet streets, and the shops remained shuttered.
"This is my first time attending such an early Sunday service. Can everyone really get up this early?" I asked, half to myself. My friend replied, "Most of the congregation are farmers or part-time workers who head to the fields or their jobs after the service. Many of the elderly are up well before dawn."
Guided by mobile navigation, we arrived at Wobei Church just as the sky began to lighten. The church steeple emerged against the early morning glow, and at the gate, greeters in yellow vests stood ready, having been there for some time.
Upon entering the chapel, we were struck by the scene before us—the sanctuary, which seats between 400 and 500 people, was nearly full even before 5:30 a.m. A receptionist gestured to us not to proceed further, indicating that there were no vacant seats. Standing alone at the back, I felt momentarily uncertain as my friend turned toward the side chapel in search of available seating. Just then, a woman seated in the back row gently tapped me, signaling that I could squeeze in beside her.
Wobei Church, built in 1897, stands as a testament to the fusion of Chinese and Western architectural styles. The church's interior features a traditional wooden framework, with beams and columns adorned with auspicious Chinese motifs. Antique plaques and couplets hang along the walls.
"For anyone who does not love the Lord, let they be accursed," Pastor Z's powerful declaration echoed through every corner of the chapel. He went on to explain that loving the Lord means obeying his commands and loving others with Christ's love. He further warned that the curse would come upon those who follow false gospels—those that preach a different savior or lify up another spirit, offering salvation through other means. He also cautioned against blindly engaging in superstitious practices, such as placing a cross image on one's forehead during illness or baptizing the dead using the deceased's clothing. Concluding his sermon with the story of Jesus cursing the fig tree, the pastor reminded the congregation that unrepentant hearts would face the same judgment. He exhorted believers to align their actions with their words, emphasizing that a spiritually vibrant life must bear both lush leaves and lasting fruit.
Pastor Z expounded on each key point with practical examples drawn from believers' everyday lives. The congregation responded with knowing laughter, some offering sheepish smiles as they felt gently exposed, others nodding in contemplation, and a few bowing their heads to take notes diligently.
As the first Sunday service drew to a close, the soft sound of rustling filled the sanctuary—some quietly closed their Bibles, while others began to gather their belongings. Outside, attendees of the second service were already lining up silently at the church gate. Wobei Church holds three Sunday services: early morning, morning, and evening. Once the sermon ended, the congregation exited in an orderly manner, and the next group of worshippers promptly filled the seats. Within moments, the chapel returned to a quiet stillness, awaiting the next service to begin.
Originally published by the Gospel Times
- Edited and translated by Poppy Chan
