Compassion Volunteer Appreciation Dinner

A record number of Compassion Ministry volunteers and donors were honored at the 2025 Compassion Appreciation Dinner, held on Nov. 22. The 83 guests included those who were instrumental in founding Compassion Ministries, like Aton Abril and Clarissa Johnston-Abril along with high school students from Lick High School who help with Food Distribution when they are on vacation.  Everyone enjoyed a delicious spread of sushi, sashimi and gyoza appetizers followed by Chinese food entrees and desserts.  Guests were entertained by their fellow honorees who sang and swayed to Todd Soo-Hoo’s keyboard accompaniment to the old Bill Wither’s song, “Lean On Me.”  The tune expresses the humble, serving attitude of all who participate in Compassion Ministries.  Arigato gozaimasu, heart-felt thanks to all.

Throughout the year the Compassion team and volunteers participate in outreach programs that impact our neighborhood and this was a time to visit those programs and actually what it takes to continue this work.  It is an amazing showing and indeed it does take a village to do God's work in the community.

Here is part of the village of volunteers who were appreciated by the  Compassion Ministry.

From left counterclockwise, Tomoko, Bev, Catherine and Ning and two James Lick High School Leos, Kelvin and Daisy, love to serve and loved the sushi as the first course of a fabulous meal.

Stella, Luz and Rev. John enjoyed the gathering.

Pictured here are Misao, Lilian and Roberto

At any meal event at Wesley, there is a totally dedicated kitchen crew.  A few workers were from left: Judy Yasutake, Cindy Fukuda, Brenda Gee, and  Bev Acuna.

Clarissa Johnston Abril talked about the work of Compassion Ministry, above and Mark Teagle brought God into the house with prayer, below.