• English Language Lessons

    Descriptive Words for Analyzing Graphs and Charts

    Graphs and charts are powerful tools for presenting data visually. They simplify complex information and make trends, patterns, and comparisons easy to understand. However, describing them effectively requires using clear and precise language. Descriptive words play a crucial role in helping your audience grasp the key insights from the visuals. Whether you’re explaining a trend, comparing values, or highlighting proportions, the right words bring clarity and engagement to your analysis.

    Here’s how to use descriptive words effectively when analyzing graphs and charts.

    Understanding descriptive words: What is a graph

    Start by identifying the graph type—line, bar, pie, or scatter plot. For example:

    • Line graphs show trends over time.
    • Bar charts compare quantities.
    • Pie charts display proportions.

    When describing, use words like increase, decrease, steady, sharp, gradual, and fluctuation.

    Example 1: Line Graph

    A line graph shows monthly sales over a year. You could say:
    “Sales increased steadily from January to June. In July, there was a sharp decline of 20%. After that, sales remained stable until December.”

    Example 2: Bar Chart

    A bar chart compares three companies’ profits. Describe it like this:
    “Company A had the highest profit, reaching $500,000. Company B had a slightly lower profit at $450,000, while Company C’s profits were significantly lower at $300,000.”

    Example 3: Pie Chart

    A pie chart shows market share. You might say:
    “Company X holds the largest share at 40%, followed by Company Y at 35%. The remaining 25% is divided among smaller competitors.”

    Descriptive words paint a vivid picture of the data, making your analysis easy to understand and engaging. Always match your language to the type of graph for accuracy!

    Describing graphs and charts effectively is just one way to enhance your communication skills in English. Using descriptive words like increase, decrease, gradual, and sharp can make your analysis clearer and more engaging. If you’re looking to improve your overall English grammar and writing, be sure to explore other articles on my blog. From mastering tenses to understanding punctuation rules, you’ll find plenty of helpful tips to sharpen your grammar skills and boost your confidence in writing.

  • Godly Living Posts / Quotes

    Do you know God is pursuing you like the woman at the well?

    But He needed to go through Samaria. So He came to a city of Samaria which is called Sychar . . . Now Jacob’s well was there. Jesus therefore, being wearied from His journey, sat thus by the well. It was about the sixth hour. A woman of Samaria came to draw water. Jesus said to her, “Give Me a drink.”

    John 4:4–7

    I encourage you to read the remarkable story of the Samaritan woman in John 4. Considered a woman with a shady past, she was gossiped about in her village and probably shunned for being a home wrecker, a “stealer of husbands.”

    Now, hers is not a fictional story. She was a real person, just like you and me. Her problems and pain, like many of ours, were real and hounded her every day . . . until she encountered a very real Savior!

    Despite the custom of the Jews of that day to avoid any contact with the Samaritans, whom they perceived as spiritually inferior, John records that as Jesus was traveling from Judea to Galilee, “He had to go through Samaria” (John 4:4 NLT, emphasis mine).

    Pause with me and think about these words for a moment: Had toNeeded toMust. Words that speak not just of necessity, but underscore a steady resolve and even urgency! Jesus had deliberately scheduled a divine appointment with the woman at the well, though she knew nothing about it.

    We know from the account that this ostracized, lonely woman had a life-transforming conversation with Jesus at the well. But make no mistake—it wasn’t she who sought out Jesus to talk to Him. It was the Savior who pursued the one whom others shunned. Do you know that He is still doing that today?

    What is your well situation?

    Do you have a past that you are ashamed of? Are you struggling to overcome something that you know is destroying you? Do you feel all alone and that no one understands the pain you are going through?

    I want you to know that Jesus hasn’t changed. As He was for the Samaritan woman, the loving Savior is still your very present help in your time of need (Ps. 46:1). He knows the suffering, shame, and struggles you are going through right now. And even if what you are going through is a consequence of bad life choices and mistakes of your own doing, He doesn’t abandon and forsake you.

    No—a thousand times, no! He goes out of the way to have a personal appointment with you, to restore and rescue you. The fact that you are reading this right now is a confirmation that Jesus is reaching out to you with His love, grace, and forgiveness.

    Talk to Him as the woman did. Taste and touch His grace and compassion for you as she did. And like her, discover Jesus’ forgiveness, freedom, and strength to walk into a bright new future.

    For more devotionals from Pastor Joseph Prince, check his website.

  • Travel

    Reviewing Airbnb Experiences in Sierra Leone

    Finding suitable accommodation while traveling can be a daunting task, especially in less touristy countries like Sierra Leone. My journey through Airbnb in this West African country provided a mix of surprises and challenges, revealing both the unique offerings and drawbacks of lodging options available. Some Airbnb experiences in Sierra Leone were worth their value.

    My stays were quite the ride—full of surprises, both good and bad. Here’s the scoop on my four unique stays.

    Airbnb experiences in Sierra Leone: Ismahejoso Lodge


    Budget-friendly picks under $20 were a no-go, so I landed on Ismahejoso Lodge at $25 a night.

    I reached out to the host on Airbnb, and he assured me the place was great and perfect for my stay. Little did I know, he wasn’t even in Sierra Leone. The first odd thing about our communication was his exorbitant offer to arrange transport from the ferry terminal to the lodge. He quoted a ridiculously high amount, which I refused, opting to make my own arrangements. Thankfully, I ended up paying much less than his suggested price. I’ll spare you the details of just how big the difference was.

    I had booked the place for four days, but within four minutes of entering the room, I regretted it. I’ll explain why soon.

    The warm welcome from the manager and a few workers was a plus, but my room? Not so much. It wasn’t clean, and I had to wait till the next day for cleaners to do a proper clean up.

    The room was spacious with a big bed, a bathtub, and running water. The bedsheet was white and appeared clean, but the floor was dusty and filthy. The blinds were extremely dirty, as if they hadn’t been washed in ages. I couldn’t bear the dirt on the walls of the bathtub, and the toilet had poop stains on the wall even after being flushed. The shower barely trickled, and I felt uncomfortable using the dirty bucket of water that was provided only after I requested it.

    What else was shocking at this place?

    Wi-Fi worked for one night for a few hours, then became moody because of power.

    The 24/7 power with a generator backup was a lifesaver, though! However, it was used only for a few hours in the night and some nights. The manager had promised that the generator would run all night, but it didn’t. As a result, the AC only worked for a total of six hours over three days, and even those were interrupted.

    Ismajoso lodge
    Ishmajoso lodge

    The location? The best thing about this place was its proximity to several beaches. Adonkia—a beach lover’s dream with Lakka, River Number 2, and Lumley beaches close by.

    My strangest accomodation situation

    On the second day, while chatting with the manager about places to visit in Freetown and whether foreigners were common there, he casually mentioned that they had a Slovakian white male who’d been living there for a long time. I was slightly surprised but figured he must have found the place comfortable—why else would he stick around?

    Equally, I actually met this guy that morning at breakfast, which, by the way, was far from delicious. I greeted him politely, like I would anyone, and didn’t think much of it. Fast forward to that night around 9 PM, I heard this strange, scratchy knock on my door. It was one of those knocks where you just know the person doesn’t want to be heard. Now, before this, I had caught the same guy peeping through my window from the balcony area, so I’d closed the curtains right away.

    Back to the creepy night knock. It went on for a while, and I figured it must be for me, so I opened the door. Big mistake. There he was—our Slovakian mystery man—looking as shady as ever. His shirt was unbuttoned at the top, and he had this unsettling look, almost like he wanted to come in. To top it off, he even stretched his hand toward me like we were besties or something. Nope! My face said it all, but I still made it clear: “Leave and never knock on my door again.” Then I slammed the door shut with the force of someone scared for her life. Safe to say, I spent the rest of the night with my heart racing, wondering if I’d just dodged a creepy bullet.

    Airbnb experiences in Sierra Leone: Zakben Lodge


    Next, I tried Zakben Hotel for $24. I contacted the host on Airbnb again, and he confidently assured me that his place was new and clean. However, I immediately regretted my decision the moment I stepped in. I have to admit, the bathroom was spacious, with clean white tiles—but it also featured a strange, dirty clothes hamper.

    The room was the very definition of dirty—dull, gloomy, and poorly lit.

    I have to admit, the host was honest about the Wi-Fi and power as promised. The Wi-Fi was stable and worked well, although I had to log in and out of some sort of system countless times a day. The power from the solar panels or generator was reliable, which convinced me to endure the stay for a week. Despite several incidents that made me regret staying, I was already exhausted from lugging my bags around and unpacking every other day.

    The bed was very comfortable, with a mattress I really liked. However, the couch in my room was an unsettling dark, dirty brown, the likes of which I’d never seen before.

    I can’t deny that the waiting room had some of the most colorful cane chairs and decor I’ve ever seen, but unfortunately, I was bitten by a bedbug while sitting on one of them.

    What was my experience at this lodge?

    To make me feel welcome, the host—who I soon discovered was in Europe—offered to send a driver to pick me up. However, after spending over 35 minutes on the road, I started regretting my decision. It turns out the area is quite far from Freetown’s city center and not ideal for a tourist unfamiliar with navigating the city.

    The remote location? A hassle I wish I had not ignored from my Google map search. There are no nearby restaurants or attractions, and transport costs to the city drained my wallet.

    Every day I had to spend 17Leones one way in a dirty bus to go buy food. The distance was at least 35mins one way and I had to wait sometimes for 10mins for the bus to load.

    Zakben hotel
    Zakben hotel

    Despite everything, the host was very prompt in responding. He called his staff and insisted on regular cleaning, which helped make my stay somewhat more comfortable.

    Simple Single Bedroom


    After Zakben, Unsure of where else to find accommodation, I returned to Airbnb in search of a simple yet comfortable place. I came across one hosted by someone abroad, who assured me that water would be connected and everything would be done to ensure my stay was pleasant. She kept her promise.I switched gears to a no-frills single room at $20 for two nights.

    It was basic but delivered on the essentials—power, running water, and a generator backup.

    Airbnb experiences in Sierra Leone
    Airbnb experiences in Sierra Leone

    I spent one night in both the cabin and the mud rooms, and I really liked this place. As you can see from the photos, everything worked just as it should. The only downside was that the kitchen was a bit sparse, with not many items available.

    Lodge 4: Freetown Host’s Property


    The final stop was a gem! My previous host invited me to their place in Freetown. It was clean, cozy, and secure with 24/7 guards.

    Electricity was pay-as-you-go but still cheaper than hotels.

    The best parts? A kitchen and fast Wi-Fi! I stayed six days and finally felt at ease.

    This last place had everything I needed, and I was really comfortable. I’d say I ended up on a high rather than a low, which is why I’m wholeheartedly recommending it. Use this link to book your stay, and I can almost guarantee you won’t regret it.

    An Airbnb experiences in Sierra Leone
    An Airbnb experiences in Sierra Leone

    Final Thoughts


    Sierra Leone’s Airbnb scene was a mixed bag. Some places nailed the basics, while others needed serious TLC “Tender Loving Care.” Cleanliness was hit or miss, but the hosts were super responsive.

    My advice? Keep an open mind and stay flexible. With a little patience, Sierra Leone’s Airbnbs can be an adventure worth taking!

    For reviews of accommodations in other countries, click this link.

  • Godly Living Posts / Quotes

    The emails that transforms my life spiritually

    Almost every week, I recieve emails like this one below which transforms my life. I get them directly from the communication team of Pastor Joseph Prince of New Creation church in SIngapore. This is because I subscribed on the app and accepted to recive regular encouragement. I have found them very helpful, thus the need for this post.

    Hey Sarah

    Have you ever stepped into an elevator with someone wearing a strong perfume? After just a few seconds, the scent clings to you—you step out carrying it on your clothes, in your hair, even without trying.

    Just like how a scent might linger on and cling to us even if we are not consciously aware of it, an encounter with God’s Word has the ability to leave a lasting mark on us, though we may not fully understand it at first.

    Job 14:7–9 paints a beautiful picture of what happens when we come into contact with not just any scent, but the scent of water, which is a symbol of the Word:

    “For there is hope for a tree,
    If it is cut down, that it will sprout again,
    And that its tender shoots will not cease.
    Though its root may grow old in the earth,
    And its stump may die in the ground,
    Yet at the scent of water it will bud
    And bring forth branches like a plant
    .”

    What transforms my life?

    Sarah, this is how God’s Word works!

    Like water, the Word refreshes, restores, and revives whatever it touches. As we go about our daily lives, we naturally pick up dust from the world—negative thoughts, fears, worries, and cares—that accumulate and weigh us down. That’s why it is so important that we immerse ourselves in the Word and allow it to wash us clean every day!

    And if you’ve been feeling cut-down or weary, and finding it hard to open up the Word lately, can I encourage you with this truth? Even the slightest exposure to God’s Word has the power to spark new life and bring transformation!

    Each time you choose to stay close to the flow of God’s Word—whether by listening to a sermon, attending small group sessions and services, or spending time with friends who encourage you with the Word—you’re positioning yourself to receive its life-giving power. Before you know it, what might appear dead will come alive and begin to bud again!

    And unlike the scent of perfume which simply lingers on us, God’s Word lingers in us. It works deep within our hearts and minds, ministering to us and planting seeds of hope, strength, and encouragement.

    So, can I invite you to stay close to the stream of God’s Word? I believe that as you do, you will see amazing things begin to happen. The Lord is faithful and His Word never returns void (Isa. 55:11). Even if you don’t see or feel it immediately, His Word is alive and actively at work to make all things beautiful for you in His time (Eccl. 3:11). 

    Sarah, if this thought has blessed you, tune in to Pastor Prince’s latest sermon, Stay Near the Scent of Water, to find out more about the power of God’s Word and how it brings life to every dead situation!

    My life transforms everytime I read these devotionals too.

  • Travel

    Best Ghana SIM Card for Hassle-Free Travel

    Whenever I book a flight or finalize my travel plans, one of the first things I do is check for the best data plan. Even though I prefer staying in Airbnbs or hotels with free Wi-Fi, getting a local SIM card has always been a smart move. I often buy SIM cards at the airport or border park cities because it makes navigating with Google Maps or finding a taxi through apps like Uber much easier. Staying connected from the start saves time and hassle. The Ghana SIM card I chose was MTN.

    If you’re looking for the fastest SIM card in Ghana, MTN is my top pick. I used MTN during my trip, and it delivered excellent data speed and coverage.

    MTN Data Plan

    MTN Ghana offers reliable 4G service. The speed was great for browsing and streaming without interruptions. I bought a SIM card for about 10 GHS and subscribed to a 2GB data plan for 20 GHS.

    Other SIM Card Options

    Apart from MTN, Ghana has other SIM card providers like Vodafone, AirtelTigo, and Glo.

    • Vodafone: Known for affordable data bundles but slower in some rural areas.
    • AirtelTigo: Good for budget users, but coverage can be spotty.
    • Glo: Offers cheap plans but has limited network reach.

    My Experience

    MTN worked best for me, especially in urban areas around Aflao and Accra. If fast internet is a priority, MTN is the way to go. I spent about $10 for 5 days and enjoyed fairly reasonable internet speeds throughout most of Accra. The only place I had connectivity issues was in Haatso, a small neighborhood in Accra. It felt strange, but I think the location of the house might have been the reason.

    However, if you need a cheaper option, Vodafone or AirtelTigo might work, depending on your location.

    Keep reading my blog to discover the best SIM cards in other countries and stay connected wherever you travel!

  • Travel

    Handong International Congregation: A Warm Community in Korea

    Are you in Korea and searching for a welcoming church? Handong International Congregation (HIC) in Pohang is worth visiting. It’s located at Handong Global University (HGU) and is home to many expatriates and locals.

    HGU is a Christian university located in Pohang, South Korea, known for its strong emphasis on global education and character development. Established in 1995, HGU aims to cultivate leaders who serve the world with integrity and expertise. The university offers a range of undergraduate and graduate programs, all taught with a focus on innovation, critical thinking, and ethical values.

    With students and faculty from various countries, HGU fosters a multicultural environment, encouraging cross-cultural understanding and collaboration. Its beautiful campus, equipped with modern facilities, provides an ideal setting for academic excellence and spiritual growth.

    Between 2017 and 2019, while studying at Handong International Law School, I found a spiritual home at HIC. HIC offered me peace, joy, and a profound sense of belonging during my time in Pohang.

    Each Sunday, the All Nations Chapel became a haven where diverse voices united in worship, creating a beautiful symphony of faith. The vibrant community, heartfelt fellowship, and opportunities for growth made HIC more than a church—it was a family and the highlight of my life in Pohang.

    Inside and outside of Handong International Congregation
    Inside and outside of Handong International Congregation

    What is the most peculiar aspect of Handong International Church?

    HIC is a unique congregation with a blend of international students, faculty, and local residents. This diversity creates a rich environment where people from different cultures and backgrounds come together to worship and grow in their faith. The congregation’s inclusive nature makes it easy for newcomers to feel at home.

    During my two years of fellowship at Handong International Congregation, I had the privilege of meeting people from countless countries. While Koreans formed the majority, I fondly recall engaging with individuals from Japan, Mongolia, Russia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the United States, Canada, and many African nations, to name just a few. The diversity within the congregation was truly remarkable, creating a rich and welcoming environment. With services conducted in English, it was effortless to connect and participate, making every gathering both meaningful and accessible.

    A Truly International Leadership

    One of the most international aspects of Handong International Congregation is its leadership. The resident pastor, Gregory Brown, and his wife, Tara, hail from the United States, bringing a unique global perspective to the church. Pastor Brown is a highly respected leader known for his profound biblical teachings and unwavering commitment to the congregation.

    With a passion for fostering spiritual growth, he delivers sermons that are both insightful and practical, blending his deep scriptural knowledge with personal experiences to inspire and guide the community.

    Pastor Gregory Brown at Handong International Congregation
    Pastor Gregory Brown at Handong International Congregation

    Pastor Brown’s approachable demeanor and genuine care for individuals make him a source of encouragement for many, whether through his preaching, counseling, or mentorship. His commitment to fostering a Christ-centered community at Handong has made a lasting impact on the congregation, uniting people from diverse backgrounds in worship and spiritual growth for nearly 20 years now. He remains one of my spiritiual inspirations till date.

    The staff and elders at HIC are mostly non-Koreans making it a suitable worship place for everyone.

    Service Times

    Services are held every Sunday at 9am – 10:30 AM at the All Nations Chapel on the university campus. It’s a peaceful space to worship. Need directions? The church office is happy to help at hic@handong.edu.

    Worship led by the English Praise Team

    The English Praise Team(EPT) at Handong International Congregation is a vibrant and dedicated group of musicians and vocalists from diverse backgrounds, united by their passion for worship. They lead the congregation in heartfelt praise every Sunday, blending contemporary worship songs with timeless hymns to create an atmosphere of reverence and joy.

    With members from various countries, their music reflects the global nature of the church, offering a rich and uplifting worship experience. Their commitment to excellence and genuine heart for God make them an integral part of the HIC community, drawing people into deeper connection through worship.

    Sarah and English Praise Team members singing at HIC
    Sarah and English Praise Team members singing at HIC

    I wouldn’t call myself an excellent vocalist, but I am forever grateful to have been part of the EPT. Singing each morning and rehearsing every Sunday truly felt like the perfect place for me. I found immense joy in harmonizing to the best of my ability and eagerly learning from others. The team’s kindness and patience with my limited musical knowledge made every moment special—they were welcoming, encouraging, and genuinely friendly in every interaction.

    Joining the English Praise Team at Handong International Congregation

    If you’re passionate about music, you’re probably already wondering how to join the English Praise Team (EPT)—I know I did! As a campus church, HIC experiences regular turnover as students graduate, so EPT holds recruitment every semester. When the announcement is made during church, an audition date is set. On that day, applicants sing in front of EPT leaders, who are incredibly skilled and knowledgeable in all things music.

    I still vividly remember my own audition day. I was so nervous—having never auditioned for a church choir before, I sang off-pitch and felt absolutely terrified. But the leaders were kind, giving me a chance to try again and encouraging me to wait for the results after recruitment ended. When I found out I had made the team, I was overjoyed. Of course, not everyone gets in, but the process is fair, and joining EPT remains one of my most cherished experiences.

    English Praise Team members
    English Praise Team members

    Lunch Fellowship with EPT Friends

    Sharing lunch with EPT friends after Sunday service at Handong International Congregation was always a highlight of the week. We would gather at cozy restaurants or the campus cafeteria, savoring delicious Korean dishes like bibimbap, kimbap, or spicy stews while exchanging stories and laughter.

    The meals were more than just food; they were moments of connection, where friendships deepened over shared experiences and lighthearted conversations. Whether we were discussing the morning sermon, cultural differences, or simply life in Pohang, these lunches brought warmth and a sense of belonging that made every gathering special.

    Lunch with English Praise Team friends at the Handong Cafteria
    Lunch with English Praise Team friends at the Handong Cafeteria

    It was also normal to share meals or cakes during birthdays. For birthdays at HIC, one memorable tradition was creating a personalized card filled with heartfelt messages. Everyone in the group would write a secret note for the celebrant, expressing their appreciation and well wishes. These messages were compiled into a beautiful card adorned with pictures that reflected shared memories and special moments. Receiving such a card on or before a birthday was truly touching—it was a joy to read the lovely words and feel the warmth of the community’s love and support.

    Programs for Kids and Youth at Handong Global University

    During service, kids can join Sunday School for fun and learning about God. Youth have regular Bible studies, activities, and fellowship.

    Before becoming a member of HIC, interested individuals are required to attend a brief course held over a few weeks. These sessions are thoughtfully organized to last about an hour at a convenient time for participants. I’m so glad I took part in this training—it provided me with a solid understanding of the church’s doctrine and foundational truths, enriching my faith journey and connection to the congregation.

    Graduation after purity pledge and membership training
    Graduation after purity pledge and membership training

    The Purity Pledge was a program led by Pastor Greg for the youth. It focused on living a sexually pure life based on biblical teachings. The sessions were short but very impactful. At the end, participants graduated and received a purity ring. The ring was a physical symbol of their commitment to stay pure until marriage. I joined the program and learned so much. It was a truly rewarding experience.

    Strong Community

    After service, it was normal for members to split and connect over coffee and snacks. It’s a great time to meet others and make friends.

    Equally, events like potlucks, cultural nights, and outreach programs are fairly common at HIC.

    Every year, HGU hosted an annual BBQ by the grilling pits. After church, congregants gathered to share a meal together. We enjoyed sausages, hotdogs, and plenty of ketchup and mustard. Juice and sodas were also available in abundance.

    HIC congregants having an outdoor BBQ
    HIC congregants having an outdoor BBQ

    Pastor Gregory Brown and his lovely wife, Mrs. Tara, also visited regional communities around Handong to offer encouragement and support. One memorable occasion was their visit to the Handong African Community, where we were overjoyed to welcome them.

    Dressed in beautiful African attire, they shared a meal with us, and Pastor Brown inspired us with a heartfelt message about unity. Adding to the joy, there was an annual service dedicated to African students, where we celebrated our culture by performing vibrant African songs, creating cherished memories for everyone involved.

    Pastor Gregory and Wife Tara's visit to the Handong African Community fellowship
    Pastor Gregory and Wife Tara’s visit to the Handong African Community fellowship

    Small groups at Handong International Congregation

    These groups are an essential part of church life, offering a space for deeper fellowship and spiritual growth. These groups bring together members from diverse backgrounds to study the Bible, share personal experiences, and support one another through prayer and encouragement.

    Meeting every Sunday after service on or off campus, they provide a close-knit environment where relationships flourish beyond Sunday services. Whether you’re seeking to explore your faith more intimately or connect with others on a personal level, joining a small group at HIC is a wonderful way to grow both spiritually and relationally.

    Sarah and small group friends during and before meetings
    Sarah and small group friends during and before meetings

    Small groups at HIC had about 5-6 people, each with a leader accountable to the main leaders. After service, some leaders took us to restaurants by Pohang beach. Other times, we gathered at the Handong football stadium or in small classrooms.

    My favorite moments were taking pictures by the campus trees, especially during cherry blossom season. We laughed a lot, and there were always jokes. It was a fun and unforgettable time.

    A Time of Renewal: HIC Retreats

    Retreats at Handong International Congregation are treasured occasions for spiritual renewal and building deeper connections. These gatherings, often held in peaceful settings on campus, offer time away from daily routines to focus on worship, insightful teachings, and heartfelt discussions.

    They are more than just spiritual events—they’re filled with laughter, interactive activities, and shared meals that create lasting memories. From moments of quiet prayer to lively group games, these retreats rejuvenate the spirit and strengthen the bonds of community, leaving participants inspired and ready to grow in their faith together.

    Handong International Congregation group retreat
    Handong International Congregation group retreat

    One retreat I particularly remember was led by Pastor Sungcho. He encouraged all EPT members with Bible teachings and held open one-on-one discussions with anyone willing to talk. It was a meaningful and personal experience for all involved.

    Mission trip

    Missions to the Philippines through Handong International Congregation have been profound opportunities to serve, connect, and grow spiritually. These missions often focus on partnering with local communities to address needs, whether through educational programs, building projects, or sharing the gospel.

    In 2019, I joined a group of about 15 EHDS participants to travel to the Phillipines. We immersed ourselves in the culture, embraced the warmth and hospitality of the Filipino people while contributing to meaningful projects that make a lasting impact.

    We visited 4 or 5 local congregations in several remote communities within the Tugagarao province in Cagayan. It was a blessing to share Christ with them and learn about their lives.

    Beyond the work, these missions provide moments of worship, reflection, and personal growth, as team members witness the power of faith in action. The experience not only strengthens bonds within the group but also leaves a lasting impression of hope and gratitude in the hearts of everyone involved.

    One of my favorite memories of this trip was the delicious Filipino food.

    Sarah at a Handong International Congregation mission trip in the Phillipines.
    Sarah at a Handong International Congregation mission trip in the Phillipines.

    Why Handong International Congregation?

    One remarkable Christmas was spent at the home of one of our associate pastor, surrounded by friends and the warmth of the holiday spirit. Pastor Choi and his family welcomed us with open arms, their home beautifully decorated and filled with the comforting aroma of festive dishes.

    We shared a meal that felt more like a feast, with laughter and stories flowing freely around the table. After dinner, we gathered to sing Christmas carols, and the pastor shared a heartfelt message about the true meaning of the season, leaving us deeply moved.

    The evening ended with a small exchange of gifts and a prayer, making it one of the most memorable and meaningful celebrations of Christmas I have ever experienced.

    Sarah and choir friends at Pastor Sungho's house celebrating Christmas
    Sarah and choir friends at Pastor Sungho’s house celebrating Christmas

    If you want a warm, supportive church community, HIC is for you. It’s open to students, professionals, and families alike.

    Why should you visit?

    Handong International Congregation is more than a church; it’s family. From worship to fellowship, HIC helps you grow in faith. If you’re in Pohang, join us and experience the community firsthand! Here’s teh church’s website for further inquiries.

    Explore more church reviews in Korea and beyond on my blog! Discover unique worship experiences, vibrant communities, and inspiring activities across the globe. Whether you’re seeking spiritual insights or travel tips, my stories will guide you to unforgettable journeys. Don’t miss out—visit today!