New York. A festive divine service was conducted in Purchase, New York, and was officiated by Chief Apostle Wilhelm Leber. Accompanying him were District Apostles Theodoor de Bruijn, Johann Kitching, Leslie Latorcai and Richard Freund. Approximately 12,000 New Apostolic Christians participated both live and via transmission.

During the divine service the Chief Apostle ordained Bishop Karl Orlofski (44) into the ministry of an Apostle. He will care for the Caribbean Islands, including the addition of Guyana.  He will also care for the three Chicago Districts and the District of St. Louis.

As a basis for this festive sermon the international church leader selected the text, "For consider Him who endured such hostility from sinners against Himself, lest you become weary and discouraged in your souls" (Hebrews 12:3). With the reading of this passage the congregation was inspired to remain full of courage, confidence and peace.

On Saturday afternoon, a concert choir and orchestra, comprising of members from the greater New York City area and from the Buffalo, Cleveland and Erie, districts under the care of District Apostle Freund, performed for Chief Apostle Leber and some 400 invited guests. The concert celebrated America’s heritage of music ranging from folk tunes and traditional melodies to African-American spirituals and lovely hymns that we learned as children growing up in our faith.