19/12/2025
On 3–4 November, a team representing ICC was sent on a trip to Changsha to visit some of our children. This is a testimony from I.C., one of our supporters who went on this trip with us.
Smiles. Hugs. Warmth. Calm. Order. These are the words that come to mind when I reflect back on my first impressions of our visit to the “Lighthouse.” I was awed by the attentiveness of the young adults around the table as they listened to their art instructor. There was a deep sense of peace and joy that filled the room. No doubt, this speaks to the love and care being poured into their lives on a daily basis by the dedicated staff of ICC.
For the art activity, I partnered up with Tsang, a young man – autistic and blind – about the same age as my own adult son. He chatted eloquently, in both Chinese and English! We had a most delightful conversation about our favorite foods as we awaited our turn for the paints. Afterwards, our group was introduced to the rest of the facilities including therapy and sensory rooms. We also watched a video of how ICC staff would travel over six hours by car to visit the homes of special needs children to support and encourage them and their parents/caregivers. Even if they are only able to visit twice a year, it means the world to these otherwise isolated families without hope. ICC indeed goes the extra miles in their “ministry of obscurity” to bring the love of Christ to the last and the least, even to just one.
This faithfulness was also displayed by the Ah Yis who we later met at the residential complex. Who sees them serving quietly behind those walls and windows, day in, day out? How can they be so committed, especially when they likely don’t receive much appreciation for their tireless, tedious work? What makes them persevere? It can only be by God’s calling.
And what about those who left their home countries afar and sacrificed their own comforts, for decades? Much as I was amazed by the beneficiaries, I was equally struck by the front-line heroines - Katrina, Kyla, Alison, Hilda as well as Cici from China. Learning about their personal challenges as well as professional, hearing of the heavy loads they carry including sorrow and grief over losses of different kinds, I am astounded by their strength and faith as they face an uncertain future. I was blessed by their testimonies that remind us to live one day at a time. We are not promised tomorrow. What matters is today, the present moment. So, what can we do to make this world a better place now – for even just one child, one young adult, one family?
Through projects like “Little Ark” and “Bach’s Bakery,” ICC not only provides vocational training and opportunities for beneficiaries, but also strives to re-educate society on the value and dignity of special needs individuals. They are not to be shamed or shunned, but to be treated with love and respect, as any of us. I admit that over most of my life, I had given little regard for the plight of the disabled. After this trip, having encountered first-hand even if just a glimpse into their lives, I have been touched by their purity of heart and mind – indeed they are the ones who are showing us the way to God, to His love, to life abundant.
We are so thankful to have joined this tour at the tail-end of our daughter’s wedding rounds up in Chang Sha – divine timing – that opened our eyes and hearts to the life-changing work of ICC. May God continue to protect and progress this ministry for His glory!
