207th Worldwide Blood Drive to Give Life Through the Love of the Passover

The “207th Worldwide Blood Drive to Give Life Through the Love of the Passover” was held on Jan 26, 2014. Apart from the goal to tackle the blood shortage problems that the nation is facing, the drive was also purposed to create awareness for the Passover of the New Covenant established by Jesus, so that more people could understand its meaning.

2,000 years ago, Jesus established the Passover of the New Covenant to save mankind by enduring the pain on the cross. The bread and wine of the Passover ceremony represent Christ’s flesh and blood through which He had promised His blessings of forgiveness of sins and eternal life (Matthew 26:17-28; John 6:53-56). Volunteers from the World Mission Society Church of God Singapore (SGWMSCOG) shared the love of Christ by inviting people in their communities to participate in the blood drive to practice the love that Christ shared.

Volunteers arrived at the Bloodbank@HSA, located beside Outram Park MRT early in the morning to prepare for the event. Putting in efforts to make the drive a successful one, the volunteers decorated the premises with colourful props. Information booths were setup for the participants and their guests to understand the meaning behind the blood drive. The benefits of donating blood were also explained to new blood donors to encourage them. The university student members of the SGWMSCOG also put together a short performance to educate the participants the importance of blood donation. Additionally, gifts were prepared to show appreciation for the efforts of the blood donors.

Donors were treated to delicious delights such as cakes and donuts sponsored by Chewy Junior and Dunkin Donuts. Accompanied by the huge blood drop mascot, there were handmade props made by the volunteers for donors to take pictures at the photo booth during the event.

Supporting the volunteers by gracing the event was Philippines ambassador, Her Excellency Minda Calaguian-Cruz who participated as the Guest of Honour. “I’m very excited about this! Congratulations to the World Mission Society Church of God Singapore for doing this. It is truly a meaningful event because what you are doing is helping to save lives. True indeed, it is a reflection of our love for one another, that we are not afraid to do something for the rest and that it is a responsibility that we take upon ourselves to become good stewards of what God has given us. Congratulations! … It is so vibrant, in fact I see everyone smiling … It is indeed an indication of the joy, the happiness that is exuded in giving out love to the rest …” said Her Excellency Minda Calaguian-Cruz in recognising the efforts of the volunteers from the World Mission Society Church of God.

“It’s my first time donating blood, and I was quite certain that I wouldn’t make it past the screening. But I realised it was all in my mind; I was simply nervous and reluctant to donate. However after watching the skit, I’ve come to understand that every bag of blood makes a lot of difference. I’m very thankful that I can make a difference today,” expressed Noelene Seah, 19, church member and participant of the event.

The World Mission Society Church of God envisions to share love and life through the Passover through future event, following the example of Christ.