Albert Wu is a passionate and creative leader from St David’s Khyber Pass in Auckland. He works with Chinese young people from churches all across Auckland. Some have immigrated to New Zealand with their families, others are New Zealand-born Chinese, but all enjoy spending time together during the activities Albert organises. Both the choir and basketball team provide opportunities for young Asian Christians to get to know each other and also to bring along non-Christian friends to fun activities.
Each Saturday morning, those that love to sing join in the 100-strong choir whose members come from 26 different churches. This choir recently enjoyed a visit from the Taiwanese Heavenly Melody - a group from the Overseas Radio and Television ministry during their New Zealand/Australia tour. In the afternoons, the Chinese Youth Basketball league gathers at Marist gymnasium for practice and competitions. The teams also go on retreats and hosted its annual multi cultural tournament in September.
Albert organises an annual Multi Cultural Choral Evensong every August. Initially, this involved youth choirs from Presbyterian churches all over Auckland. Albert intentionally sought out different cultural groups to be involved so that there would be a variety of styles and input into the event. Over the years, choir enthusiasts from other denominations have also asked to be involved. This year’s event had 10 participants representing four denominations, which totalled 300 voices. An additional 200-plus people attend the event, which overfills the sanctuary. The event has to be shown through onto a TV in the foyer to accommodate the numbers.
The evening consists of each group presenting two items, a time of corporate worship, a message – this year’s was from the International Chinese Church Music Association President - awards for the participants, and a time for supper together in the church hall. Although some groups introduce themselves nervously, without fail the singing was strong and full of enthusiasm. The talent and variety were amazing. Some groups were small, some sang in other languages, and some sang original compositions, but they were all extremely talented. The variety of songs was fantastic, including traditional, contemporary, gospel, and cultural items.
A standout performance came from St Andrew’s Otahuhu, a first-time participant. This evening provided great inspiration for the group to challenge their young people to put some items together. They performed at their church’s youth service for practice, organised matching shirts for the mixed age group, and even chartered a bus into town to ensure everyone’s availability. Their bright blue shirts were only outshone by their bright smiling faces while they were singing. Many compliments and invitations for further performances have followed.