UECP Herald V3 Issue 2

UNITED EVANGELICAL CHURCH OF THE PHILIPPINES PUBLICATION

God, my Father

我們在天上的父

The Sunny Legacy

My Superhero

APR IL - JULY 2015

V OLU ME 3 I SSUE 2

Contents

EDITORIAL STAFF 編輯人員 Advisers:

ED I TORIAL

Two Fathers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3

F EATURES

I’m Glad He’s My Father . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 Our Father’s Legacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 The Sunny Legacy. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 Our Dad: A Responsible and Selfless Family Man . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 Tan Ching Heng(陳振興):A Life-Long Learner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 God, My Father . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7 A Heart for Missions; 4 Hearts of Missions. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Kids' Tribute to Dad . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12 Medical Mission and I. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14 Christ’s Minstrels:Traveling Musicians with a Mission . . . . . . . . . 15 The Solid Rock Congregation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 Q&A for Church Leaders & Youth. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19 懷念先父許仁和執事. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 「回顧過去丶勇往直前」. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20 中華宣教改變了我！. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 我參加每天好中心感言. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21 我們在天上的父. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22 宣教使命的傳承. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23

N EWS

Mission Month Events / Kairos course Dinner Fellowship for UECP Missionaries Missions Exposed 1 / Missions Exposed 2 婦女團契週年感恩會. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 UECP Summer Camps. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

OUR CORE VALUES 我們的核心價值

D iscipleship I ntegrity S cripture-based C hrist-centered I nvolvement P rayerful life L ove for God & Man E vangelism & Missions

塑造門徒

Rev. Leo Jaime Son 顧問: 孫培雄牧師 Elder Edward Ong 王國揚長老 Editor-in-Chief: Marlene Go

總編輯:

林靜薇

Associate Editors:

副總編輯: (English)

(英)

(Chinese)

(中) Features:

Christine Sim

陳堤熒

Mary Karen Monzon

蔡嘉玲

Cristina Dy

特寫: 李雅姝 Wyndale Wong 黄天保 News: Patrick Tan 新聞: 陳百德 Chinese: Hannah L. Go 中文: 張心怡 Wang Min 王闽 Layout/Graphics: Benson C. Go 平面設計: 吳明純

Ernie Joventino Monzon 林東陽 Lunedi Lim 林熙倫 Logistics: Paul Relucio

總務:

楊榮燦

Dear reader, if you have any comment or suggestion, please email us at: 親愛的讀者: 若對本刊物有任何 指教與建議, 請發電郵至 :

uecpherald@gmail.com http://issuu.com/uecpherald follow us on twitter @uecpherald

OUR MISSION 我們的使命

遵守聖經

To raise up CHRIST-like disciples committed to make CHRIST-like disciples. 興起效法基督的門徒 立志於塑造效法基督的門徒。

參與事奉

OUR VISION 我們的異象

正直生活 尊主為大 殷勤禱告 愛神愛人 領人歸主

Transforming generations for GOD’s glory! 世世代代，更新生命，榮耀上帝！

EDITORIAL

TWO FATHERS Christine Sim

T o have one father is a great blessing. To have two fathers is having two priceless treasures. Twinkling eyes, gentle smile, a

teasing manner… These pictures come to mind when I think of my late father-in-law (沈丁籣). I picture him, sitting comfortably on his rocking chair, reading the Chinese newspaper or a book. I smile as I recall how he would burst into a Chinese nursery rhyme (天黑黑) with matching energetic gestures, to the wide-eyed amazement of my 2 boys then. My heart grows warm when I remember how we used to cook meals – he, going to the market to buy meat and vegetables, then returning home to help me prepare what I would cook, and then taking care of my 2 boys while I cooked. I still cherish the memory of our talks and his insightful advice for an “adopted” daughter.

Such seeds of growth from one earthly father! Wit, a love for learning, creativity, humility, wisdom, gentleness, and true love. God used my father-in-law to prune my rebellious ways and shape me into the tree He wants me to be.

Since I was a child, the eldest of 4 sisters, I often heard people asked my late father (陳禹門): Don’t you want a son? My father would always smile and say something along this line: No need; I’m happy with my daughters. He proved this statement with his continuous support all throughout my life - from the clubs I joined in school, to the out-of-town trips I organized since I was a teenager, to my career choices, to his pride and love for my husband, and to his fervent yet equal love for each of his grandchildren. Without his support, I wouldn’t have the courage to explore the gifts God gave me, and have the confidence to pursue my interests.

But my father’s most precious gift to me was his unconditional love.

At 17, I felt this love greatly when I was seeking his and my mom’s

permission to attend fellowship meetings at UECP. I accepted Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior a few months before, and I felt the Lord leading me to join a fellowship so I could grow more spiritually mature. My parents were not believers, and I knew they did not approve of my faith, so I wasn’t hopeful of a positive answer.

My father came to my room, sat down and gently asked me how old I was. I said 17. He then said, “You’re already 17. You know how to decide what is best for you. Your mother and I would prefer that you not attend this fellowship. But it’s your decision.”

I decided to join Shalom Fellowship. Because my father allowed me to attend Shalom despite his misgivings, my children now know Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior. And my husband and I pray that we will likewise follow the examples of our earthly fathers – especially if the Lord calls on any of our children to become fishers of men.

This is my dream – to see my children casting their nets upon the world, thus fulfilling the Great Commission as Jesus said in Matthew 28:19-20, “Go therefore and make disciples of all the nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and the Son and the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I commanded you…”

This issue has two themes: 1) Fatherhood: Different generations of children write about their father’s legacy. 2) Missions: UECP members of different generations share their insights and experiences on doing missions. May these testimonies lead you to clearly see the path God wants you to take, and with the Holy Spirit’s guidance, to courageously tread this path, whatever the obstacles may be.

I’M GLAD HE’S MY FATHER Hanielle Cheng Rev. Tony Cheng and Mrs. Nancy Cheng have two daughters, and I happen to be the younger one. I’m a pastor’s kid, and a very energetic and friendly person. My dad and I have a lot of things in common. We both like playing “Bejeweled” and “Candy Crush.” We are fond of gadgets and we usually bond whenever we go to the hardware store or CDR-King. When I was younger, my dad gave me a mini toy car that runs on friction. As far as I can remember, it was the first time he bought me a birthday gift.

I remember these things because they are shared moments of joy and laughter.

As I grew up, I saw how committed my dad was in his ministries, how sincere and loving he was to the people around him. He trained us to read the Bible every day since our elementary days. We’ve learned to allot time reading the Bible for an hour every day, while listening to the “audio book” version of the book and chapter that we’re reading. At a young age, I may not have quite understood why we needed to read the Bible regularly or its significance and the benefit I could gain from it. But now, I see how important it is, and I’m grateful to my dad because he trained and helped me build my spiritual foundation while I was still young.

I was inspired and encouraged to be involved in some church ministries because I saw how God used my dad for His glory. I’ve seen my dad help others even though it would be inconvenient.

God continues to provide him strength each day to help others and lead them to Christ. My dad is kind, loving, thoughtful, forgiving, and understanding. He is, most of all, a God-fearing person. Though he’s not perfect, I still love him for who he is and I’m glad that he is my father.

Hanielle is a junior at the University of Santo Tomas, taking up BS Psychology. She attends Sunday Youth Fellowship and is active in church ministry as an officer of College Fellowship.

F E AT U R E S

OUR

FATHER’S

LEGACY Belen Lim, Irene Pedro and Karen Choa (as told to Christine Sim)

B efore joining his Creator in paradise in 2005, the late Go Chun Hui (吳遵惠)was married for 53 years to Siao Ching Guat (蕭清

月) who passed away in 2007. God blessed them with 4 children, Belen, Matthew, Irene and Karen. Matthew went home to the Lord in 2006. Here are the reflections of Elder Belen Choa Lim, Elder Irene Choa Pedro and Deaconess Karen Choa on their father’s legacy:

A SIMPLE MAN…

According to Karen, her father liked bread and Chinese food. “So he and mom became excellent chefs of Chinese cuisine.” Irene adds that her father lived a simple, frugal life to provide them with a good life, sacrificing his own comforts. “It was not easy to raise 4 kids with his income, yet he fulfilled his dreams for us to graduate from college, to have good education,” says Irene.

Karen elaborates, “Gifts he received remained unused because he said he didn’t need them yet. His wardrobe is extensive but it got to the point that he asked my mom to stop going to the tailor because his old clothes were still usable. His ‘signature’ bluish-grey striped jersey pajamas were so worn-through but he still wore them because they were his favorite. His one and only trip abroad was with my mom and Irene in Singapore because my mom earnestly requested it for one of their wedding anniversaries.”

A LIFELONG LEARNER…

“Papa learned the English language by himself.” Karen remembers that he answered the newspaper crossword puzzle every night with a dictionary by his bedside. She added that whenever a repairman (plumber, carpenter, electrician, PLDT man) came, he would patiently watch and learn from them. More often than not, he would suggest better options to do things, much to the repairman’s surprise.

Irene says that his dad didn’t finish college but he was the one who influenced her to be a dependable accountant. Her father was her “certified accountant.”

A TRUSTWORTHY AND HARDWORKING BUSINESSMAN…

Belen recalls that her dad was trusted by his business associates and partners throughout his life. She explains, “When I was still a child, I remember that I saw checkbooks in his drawer that were pre-signed by his associates or his employer. People leave him with ‘blank checks.’ This picture of trust which he earned from his associates became my standard of honesty and integrity, i.e. people can trust me with their money. Because he was known for his integrity, our dad, and even we, his children, were usually elected to

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positions like treasurer, or finance leaders in professional and church organizations.”

Belen adds that her father never gave up despite challenges and difficulties in life. His resilience was one trait that all of them emulated.

Her father showed them how to be patient in perfecting a task even when they had repeated failures. Irene agrees. She says, “My dad was a man of principle. What he committed to do, he accomplished.

He gave me a legacy of hard work and frugality.” Karen recalls that during his last few weeks of life, he still diligently sat by his table so as not to miss any phone call from Cebu. She adds that his wireless phone is his constant companion during siesta hour.

A FAITHFUL FOLLOWER OF CHRIST…

Irene shares, “My dad surrendered his life to Jesus in his senior years. And he never looked back. Every Sunday he eagerly waited to be fetched for worship. Oftentimes, we would recite Bible verses and sing hymns together by mom’s bedside. I never heard him grumble about life’s difficult circumstances – seeing both my mom and brother in a long-term sickness journey.”

Karen remembers that her father totally eliminated Chinese tradition during All Saint’s Day to show his love to His Creator. He also reads his Chinese “Streams in the Desert” religiously at night.

A LOVING AND DEVOTED FATHER…

Irene affirms, “He lived out his marriage vows, ‘in sickness and in health, till death do us part’ to the fullest. When mama was sick and bedridden, he spent his days at her bedside, holding her hands and smiling at her. It was a long journey of health challenges for the family.”

Karen recalls, “A year after my mom had her craniotomy, papa suffered a near-fatal heart attack – a myocardial infarction. But he didn’t want to worry my mom, so he requested the doctor to allow him to go home. He personally told my mom what happened. That scene still lingers in my mind.”

Irene says that during one of his hospital stays, “He told me he desired to see mom. He missed her. And in his last confinement, I remember dad waving his hand to mom on our way to the hospital – a picture of true love.” Karen agrees, “He spared us from making difficult decisions regarding his health. During that 3rd and last confinement, when he was already weak and drowsy, he only opened his eyes when his attending physician made his rounds.

He clearly told his doctor ‘Um tang ko ka gua chong sia’ (Don’t do anything to me anymore). That night he breathed his last.”

HERALD * UNITED EVANGELICAL CHURCH OF THE PHILIPPINES PUBLICATION

F E AT U R E S Being an organized person with all his documents properly labeled and filed, Belen reveals that after her father’s death: “We found his notebook with all his instructions.

Everything was well-planned, from house repairs to the medical budget for my mom and brother. “

HONORING OUR FATHERS (AND MOTHERS)…

THE SUNNY LEGACY Christine Sim

S unny Tan Sim has been with UECP since his high school days at Hope Christian High School. He is the youngest of 7 siblings. He has been married for 16 years and has 4 chil-

dren who are all attending school at his alma mater. His fondest memory of childhood is his father Sim Hoai Lin (沈丁籣) regularly bringing him to the old airport to watch airplanes fly; hence, Sunny has been flying planes since his college days.

Though they don’t see him everyday, Sunny’s children know that he loves them. They elaborate:

JOSHUA KENICHI (THE ELDEST, 15 YEARS OLD)

God commands us in Exodus 20:12, “Honor your father and your mother, that your days may be prolonged in the land which the Lord your God gives you.” Here are Belen’s insights on how to obey this commandment.

Don’t dishonor your father’s name. Do and be your best in all areas of life, whether it’s academic, career, or personal life. My most important motivation to excel in my studies and my career is to honor God and my parents. I looked forward to the day when my parents would be on stage to pin my medals when I graduated. Though I was an ordinary student in high school, I strived hard in college and graduated top of my class to honor my dad and mom. Later in life, I shared joyful moments with my dad whenever I got promoted in my job.

Giving them care and attention. They become lonely when they get old. Give them attention and quality time for companionship.

My youngest sister Karen devotedly cared for my dad by bringing him to different places and letting him try different foods.

My dad was lonely when my mom became bedridden so we allocated every Sunday to have dinner together and he looked forward to this family time of cooking and dining.

Share the best thing you have with them.

The best gift we can ever have on earth is the precious gift of salvation. Share Jesus and His gift of salvation to your parents. When my dad died, it was very comforting for me to know that I will see him again in heaven.

If he was not saved, we would be eternally separated – what a painful thought!

I know my dad loves me because he takes care of me. Since I was a child, he has always been there for me. He sacrifices things that he wants for what I want. He puts time and effort in his work so that I can have a nice and bright future. He guided me into becoming the man I am today. That is how I know that my dad loves me.

TIMOTHY SHINJI (THE SECOND SON, TURNING 14 THIS YEAR)

I know Papa loves me because he shows it to me. He helps me when he knows I need help, he never looks down on me, and he cares for me. Even though he is not always here, I am sure that he will always care for me and love me because he has shown me every day through the years that he does no matter what happens.

AUDREY JOY (THE FAVORITE DAUGHTER, 8 YEARS OLD)

Papa loves me because he kisses me. He puts a blanket over us when we’re asleep so we don’t get cold. He scratches my back when I ask him to. He massages my back or my leg or my foot when I ask for a massage. He provided us with a new house and with things like computer, TV and toys.

LUKE ERON (THE YOUNGEST SON, TURNING 6 THIS YEAR)

Papa loves me because he hugs and kisses me. He gives us food to eat everyday.

He covers us with blankets at night. He lets me watch movies. He goes swimming with me.

When asked how they will honor their father, they answer:

JOSHUA:

I will honor him by taking care of him when he gets old, by studying hard, and by not wasting his efforts to get me into a good school. I will honor him by becoming a man that he is proud of.

TIMOTHY:

I will honor him by growing the way he wanted me to; to be an example of Christ. He has shown me that this is the way he wants me to grow. And hopefully in the future, I can be an example to the next generation by following the example that my father is living out today.

AUDREY:

I will take care of him when he’s old to show my love for him.

ERON:

I will hug and kiss him, I will go swimming with him, and I will let him do his stuff first before I use the computer to watch movies.

HERALD * UNITED EVANGELICAL CHURCH OF THE PHILIPPINES PUBLICATION

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F E AT U R E S

OUR DAD: A RESPONSIBLE AND SELFLESS Prislyn, Psalm, and Phyllis Ong

Prislyn GIVING COMMITMENT…

Growing up, I saw my dad becoming busier and busier each passing year. I remember that he used to be a stress-free man. The only things he was busy with were our small family business and a ministry in the church’s children worship. However, as time passed, his responsibilities in church not only increased but also became more complicated. I guess that’s what happens when people see how responsible you are. “For to everyone who has, more shall be given, and he will have an abundance.; But from the one who does not have, even what does have shall be taken away.” (Matthew 25:29) And “Being Responsible” is the lesson he’s often taught us; and it will surely stay with me for the rest of my life.

My dad is a man with a very strong sense of responsibility to the point of being selfless. This reminded me of his latest trip to our sister church in Zamboanga a few months ago. A day before the trip, he was still terribly sick as he had been for two days already. He knew he would most probably miss the trip, so he called his coworkers to inform them about this. Knowing he was sick, everyone – including all of us in the family – discouraged him to join the trip so he could fully recover from his flu. On the scheduled day, he was still sick and had no choice but to stay home. Even with such a valid reason, he felt guilty for ditching his responsibilities. The next day after waking up early and feeling a little better, he immediately and secretly booked a ticket to Zamboanga. His sense of responsibility was so strong that not even discomfort and sickness could stop him from doing what he had committed to do!

Today’s youth are often perceived as irresponsible, negligent and careless, a generation without any sense of responsibility. However, I beg to disagree! I praise God I have a role model to learn from. I want to disprove this misconception about the younger generation. As I grow older and have commitments and responsibilities of my own, I will live by this legacy of my father – the principle of being faithful to the tasks that I commit to do.

Psalm GIVING TIME…

Time is said to be the best thing a person can give to another.

Once given, it can never be taken back. Time is also given to those who are important or special in our hearts. This is how I know that my family and I have that special place in my father’s heart.

The Chinese culture of showing one’s affection is very much different from the western culture. For one, it is very natural for Westerners to express their affection through words. In contrast, like most Chinese people, we often feel awkward and embarrassed to show our emotions.

Coming from a very traditional Chinese family, my Dad is of course no exception. But I learned from him that whatever words he could not express to show affection, he certainly manifested in his actions.

He showed me the value of time given to our family. Ever since we were young, my dad set us a perfect example of filial piety: bringing us to visit our grandparents (both paternal and maternal) every week (and we still do!). Being a child, I was not aware how significant our visits were. All I cared about was the Cartoon Network shows I got to enjoy at least once a week! (Today, we still do not have Cable TV at home.) Through the years, I have come to realize that what truly matters is the time spent with my family.

Recently, my dad became busier with church matters. His church responsibilities tend to occupy most of his time – which was supposedly to be spent with us. Even so, my dad sees to it that he gives back whatever time he missed with us because spending time with the family is important to him. Though I have yet to fully understand the significance of family time as I still don’t have a family of my own, I definitely value what my Dad has done for us.

Psalm is both an Economics and Marketing student at De la Salle University. Aside from his studies, he is busy with his own small apparel business. At church, he is actively involved in various ministries, which includes playing the piano for different camps and fellowships.

Prislyn graduated from University of Santo Tomas with a degree in Fine Arts major in Advertising Arts. Currently a freelance artist with much interest in events and PR work, she is working on her portfolio in preparation for conceptual and design work in the future.

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HERALD * UNITED EVANGELICAL CHURCH OF THE PHILIPPINES PUBLICATION

T

GOD, MY FATHER

S FAMILY MAN

Lester Lloyd Vinz C. Ngo “I will be a Father to you and you will be my sons and daughters, says the Lord Almighty.” ~2 Corinthians 6:18 (ESV)

M y life story – I was born in a happy and complete family where everything we wanted was always granted by my parents, Phyllis GIVING HIMSELF…

As a kid, one of the most boring moments of my life is listening to life lessons that Papa and Mama teach me. I honestly have no problem with the lessons but what makes it boring was they kept repeating each and every one of them. Well, I guess important things are meant to be repeated, so they would stick with you. So when my siblings and I were asked to write this article, we had to think of what life lessons we remembered the most. It was very hard to think of one because of the numerous lessons we were given. So after some time, I finally decided to exchange all of the lessons and sermons for what I observed at that moment. After all, actions do speak louder than words. With that, let me tell you what Papa does almost all his life: Practicing Selflessness.

During school days, Papa drives me to school every morning.

Afterwards, he takes care of the store for almost the whole day.

Sometimes, he takes my grandfather to work. Every Friday, Papa takes grandpa to his therapy sessions. In the evenings, he often goes to church for meetings or other similar stuff. Most times, he would be home very late at night. This sequence repeats the next day.

Sometimes Mama reminds us to give him a break because he carries the heavy load of responsibility for the whole family, for my grandparents, for our business, and for the church. Judging by what he does, it is pretty much fair to say Papa’s a really selfless man.

Someday, I wish to be like him and in every way possible, I want to practice selflessness the way he does.

Phyllis, the youngest in the family, is a grade 9 student at Hope Christian High School. She attends student fellowship.

Prislyn, Psalm and Phyllis are the children of Edward and Phing Phing Ong.

(陳振興): G N E H G TA N CHINONG LE A R NER A LIFE-L

Judy and Amanda

Tan

especially my mom who indulged us even without the approval of my dad. But in just a blink of an eye, my life turned around 180 degrees and left me unprepared for the next breath of morning.

I was 12 years old, when a small spark ignited into a huge monstrous fire that devoured our home slowly. What’s worse, it took away the life of my parents.

To say that ‘surviving in life without any parent is an impossible task’ is an absolute understatement. No adjective in the dictionary could accurately describe the feeling of being an orphan. As a small boy trying to understand and learn the ways of the world, perhaps one of the saddest part of growing up as an orphan is the absence of a father – someone who will teach you things like how to play sports, fix the house, drive cars, court a girl, and more importantly, someone who will stand as a role model on becoming a strong, streetwise gentleman and a father in the future. Pains, questions, and tears came with the longing to have a father to guide me when the road seems distorted, to fix things for me when things get too complicated, and to pat me on the back for every milestone I reach in my life.

In spite of being an orphan for almost nine years, I can say that I am fully blessed and happy with everything. In time, I have realized that things in the past are matters we cannot do anything about. In lieu of having a negative perspective about such experiences, we can look at it the other way around: God used them to craft us into persons He intended for us to be. God never left me during times of discomfort and up to today, He is always there as my Father in heaven, guiding me as I journey through life here on earth. I have always felt that He was appointing and bringing people into my life who acted as my 2nd, 3rd, 4th, and more fathers. They are fathers who treat me like their own son, and teach me the things a father would. I may have lost a father, but God my Father, has provided me with more fathers and mothers to fill my need for parental love and care. He gave me the chance to be part of other homes, and feel the warmth and joy of having a complete family. God my father has provided me with three siblings that will always be there for me no matter what, and true friends who share my laughter, joy and insanity, in good and in bad times.

Ultimately, the longing for a father and mother moved me to fully embrace Jesus in my life and share His love to everyone. God taught me that He is the Father to everyone, even before the first father Adam. Our parents are gifts from Him which should be genuinely valued and never taken for granted. He may have taken this gift away from me, but I believe it is for a greater reason, even though I may not fully understand why. I strongly believe it is part of His will and great plan for my life. I may have lost a big part of me upon losing this gift, but I have gained more being in the arms of my Father in heaven.

Lester Llyod Vinz Ngo is a graduate of Hope Christian High School batch Beacons 2010, and of the University of the Philippines - Manila with a degree in Bachelor of Science in Public Health. He volunteers in the usher ministry, college fellowship, children’s ministry, as a cell group leader, as college camp staff for several years, and has been to several mission trips. Outside UECP, he previously served as ER volunteer and participated in kids outreaches led by organizations in UP.

F E AT U R E S

Millicent Lao

D o you have a favorite superhero? Does he/she have cool powers? A stylish costume? A model daytime identity? Tragic past?

Rippling abs? Well, look no further, because you won’t be seeing any of that here.

Why this talk of superheroes? Because they exist, but not in the widely-fantasized world of cool people in cool costumes, coolly saving the earth with their cool powers. Rather, I’m here to talk about heroes who are pretty “baduy,” are stereotypically embarrassing, wear regular clothing (often polo shirts with stripes or just stripes), who don’t save anyone or anything except money and probably once, the neighbor’s cat. Clue: half of your DNA is his.

Let me tell you my story.

I am the fourth in a brood of five strangely varied individuals. On one end, you have the highly sociable, geek-level enthusiastic diva (“Present!”), and on the other, you have the extremely introverted, highly intelligent loner (*crickets chirp*). Ahem. Even as we lived with our grandparents, we were raised in a largely matriarchal family system, where the mother and grandmother took charge of raising the children, while the father and grandfather quietly work to earn money and provide for the household; and also to strike silent fear into the children.

I used to share my room with all my siblings when we were younger.

Our room is situated beside my parents’ room, with a bathroom in between. Every night, my mom makes sure to tuck (or coerce) everyone into bed by a certain time, say our individual prayers, and lay down. But sometimes, I have a hard time sleeping, so after rolling around in my bed for some time, I’d creep into the unlit bathroom to drink water. I would usually overhear them talking quietly then praying together - praying for us, the family, their business, the church, the Philippines (especially when something big happens), amongst other things. Seeing them regularly pray together taught me to look for important qualities in my future partner: he must be responsible for his spiritual life, willing to be held accountable, and be continuously seeking the Lord.

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Living with my father isn’t easy. Being raised by typically Chinese parents, he grew to be typically Chinese himself. He’s hardworking, diligent, a great provider, strict, reserved, rarely smiles, is practically “mute,” and keeps all forms of cheesiness to an almost non-existent level. Yes, very Chinese! It was very hard to guess what he was thinking. But what he lacks in the “shows emotion” department, he greatly makes up for in service.

The day my parents confirmed that mom had stage 3 breast cancer, we had one of our family meetings. They told us frankly about her condition and what we were to expect in the coming months. My mom had to go live with her parents while she was undergoing treatment for at least a year, leaving dad to play her role in her absence.

So, for at least a year, he played morning call, breakfast scheduler, homework helper, “I need this” genie, dinner call-er, cat fight referee, and “get your butts in bed” alarm, while fulfilling his usual duties as father. Not a complaint was heard, at least, not in my hearing. I can’t believe he survived handling 5 pre/post-pubescent children without going insane. It’s a miracle! He taught (without actually telling) me that complaining doesn’t get me anywhere. I need to trust God in every trial, and to put loved ones above myself.

Dad currently heads the General Service department in church. I believe he is very good at it, as he is very good at logistics and machines and things, but me? I don’t know much about those, and I’m okay with that. I would rather work with children and young teens and sing; he would rather work in the sound booth and care for the logistic needs of the church. I’m more suited to be onstage, he is more comfortable backstage. If you look at our family, we all have different ministries. We learned to work for God based on what He has given us. Dad lets us discover and cultivate these gifts on our own, but even if I am not aware of it, I’m sure he always keeps a watchful eye on us, ready to help us should something happen, just like our Father in heaven. Just like a superhero.

Mimi, daughter of Philip and Elaine Lao, is a graduate of St. Scholastica’s College with a degree in music, major in voice performance. She loves to sing, and that’s an understatement. She is currently a group leader in Sunday Youth Fellowship (SYF) and a member of the Senior Choir.

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OUR FATHER IN HEAVEN Rev. Stephen Kwan Translation: Marlene Go “This, then, is how you should pray, ‘Our Father in heaven….’”

(Matt 6:9 NIV) We are very familiar with “The Lord’s Prayer.” It is the model prayer Jesus taught His disciples. The prayer starts with addressing “Our Father in heaven,” aptly describing our relationship with God – that of Father and child. There are three layers of significance to this bond.

FIRST, HE BELONGS TO ME.

The Lord said, “Our Father in heaven” – not “your” Father in heaven, but “ours.” We belong to God and God is ours. To know that God is “our Father” is of utmost importance because our relationship to Him is above all else.

Jesus said, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father but through me.” He is the only true God, the only heavenly Father, and He is yours. If He were not yours, He would be of no use to you no matter how good or great He is. A child feels safe knowing his father is nearby to help and protect him because this father loves and belongs to him. To a child, a father is very important and precious. All spiritual blessings and riches found in the Lord’s prayer is based on our relationship with this “Father.”

The term of endearment “Abba father” is a Jewish favorite. They say the first word a Jewish child utters is “Abba.” This name is so precious. Thus, that we are able to call out “Abba Father” signifies the beginning of our spiritual birth. We are born again, intimately inseparable from the Triune God.

SECOND, HE IS “OF HEAVEN.”

“Our Father in heaven” is not the father on earth. The earthly father has weaknesses and limitations. We, fathers of this world, have shortcomings. We fail our family and our children. As a pastor, I have to admit that what I do is not good enough. The one time I raised my voice to my daughter cost me a sleepless night. I had to hug and apologize to her. I think many have similar experiences.

The Holy Spirit touched me to help me realize that I was wrong.

Praise God, our heavenly Father is not deficient. He is a perfect Father. Not only that, we know He created the entire universe.

This glorious, great God walks with lowly humans. The Almighty God upholds the world and cares for the birds of the air, the wildflowers of the field, and does not ignore the worthless blade of grass.

(Matthew 6) teaches us two important messages: (1) “Your heavenly Father knows” (v.32) and (2) “Your heavenly Father feeds them.” (v.26) The great God of heaven does not neglect these feeble, lowly creatures. How much more valuable to Him are we, His children, who totally depend on Him? Remember, no matter how great the difficulty we encounter, our heavenly Father is always with us. Do not perceive the Father through sufferings. Instead, understand life’s distresses through the Father. This is our faith – that we see God amid our trials. We will develop a renewed perspective on our despairs.

Let me share a story on faith:

buy food, but I do not have money. Instead, I can pray for you.”

Not one who believed in God, the owner asked, “And how will you pray for me?’ The widow produced a prepared prayer on paper, saying, “I pray for you.” The boss said, “All right, lay your prayer down on this side of the scale. You will get as much stuff as your prayer weighs.”

He then put a loaf of bread on the scale, hoping to be rid of her. Alas, the scale stood motionless. He added a loaf, but the scale won’t budge. Furious, he said to the widow, “I am very busy today. Don’t bother me. Take whatever you want.” He threw her a food basket into which she put a lot of grocery items.

After giving thanks, she left to celebrate the holidays. When the owner checked why his scale wouldn’t move, he discovered the instrument was broken. Strange? Why did it not get damaged earlier before the widow prayed? The heavenly Father cared for the widow and her family.

Dear brothers and sisters, we each have difficulties and struggles in life, but never forget, there is a heavenly Father who loves us.

Those who do not believe in God do not really have a way out from this troubled world of disaster and suffering.

THIRD, HE IS LOVE.

Jesus first used “Abba Father” in the garden of Gethsemane when He faced His life’s greatest struggle. As he prayed “Abba Father,” Jesus clung to his “love relationship” with the Father. “Abba Father, I love You and You love Me. Our mutual love is intimately unbounded. Even if I’m unwilling to take this painful path, but for Your sake, because I love You, I am willing to lay down Myself.”

As a result, our gracious Lord Jesus learned submission in love amid suffering. How was Jesus empowered in prayer? By the few, short words of prayer, motivated by love. He loves the heavenly Father and nothing can sever this love. Therefore, because I love you, I obey you. For love, I am willing to submit in total obedience no matter how great the pain.

Dear brothers and sisters, whenever we encounter difficulties and trials, we often think, “The heavenly Father does not love me. If He loves me, why does He give me such troubles? If He loves me, why does He not help me or answer my prayer?"

We often doubt Him with such questions and answers. If only you realize that the love of the heavenly Father never changes, that He is your “Abba Father” who loves you most, you would obey. We should remember that the heavenly Father has already given us three treasures in our life: His name, His love, and His Son. The heavenly Father puts His name, His love, and His Son in us and we are in Him. We know how close this bond is. We belong to Him. We are among those He loves. The real essence of prayer is your relationship with the heavenly Father. When you receive the love of the heavenly Father, you will surely pray. Remember, we have a very important relationship with God. He is our Father; we are His children.

Rev. Stephen Kwan is currently the Senior Pastor of The Home of Christ Church in Cupertino, California. He was Senior Pastor of UECP from 1987 to 1992 and is now our Advisory Pastor since 2005.

The story goes that a woman lost her husband during World War II. On Christmas eve that year, she went to a grocery store hoping to get some food for the festival. She asked the owner: “I want to HERALD * UNITED EVANGELICAL CHURCH OF THE PHILIPPINES PUBLICATION

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A HEART FOR MISSIONS;

4 HEARTS OF MISSIONS

Edward Ong

O ne of the touching moments during a Seminary graduation ceremony I attended was the school paid tribute to an old professor couple retiring after 30 years of service. As their valuable contributions were cited, we discovered the couple would have continued their ministry had it not been for their physical health concerns. This makes me ponder how some people could zealously dedicate their life to a single vocation. Then, I realize that passion for any profession (and conviction) exudes from the Heart! Without Heart, we quit at the slightest challenge.

A familiar Sunday school story (Mark 2:1-5) tells about four men who brought a paralytic to Jesus. The Lord had just returned to Capernaum after a series of healing and teaching ministries in various Galilean towns. News about His arrival spread. Many came to where He was staying to hear Him preach. The place was so crowded people could hardly move. Imagine the difficulty in carrying a paralyzed person through the blocked entrance.

This didn’t stop the four from coming to Christ, however. They removed a portion of the roof and lowered the sick right in front of Jesus. Moved, the Teacher commended the faith of these men and healed their friend.

The theme of our church for 2015 is “A Heart for Missions.” Like the retiring seminary couple, we can only sustain our ministry when we put our hearts into what we do. The four friends of the paralytic modeled four kinds of “Hearts” to fulfill the call of Missions.

A HEART OF FAITH 信心

Faith, as commended by Jesus, is obvious. When He saw “their” faith, He said to the paralyzed, “Son, your sins are forgiven.”

The Lord appreciated the faith of the four friends (although that of the paralytic remains unknown). We read of various instances in the Bible where Jesus praised the faith of His “patients.” In this case, however, He honored the faith of the workers - those who brought hurting people to Him. As workers of the Lord, we need to learn an important truth: your faith and my faith can affect and determine the effectivity of our ministry.

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It all started with a heart of faith. The men must have previously seen Jesus helping people in need, whether those of a multitude, a few people, even individuals. They probably witnessed Jesus never refusing anyone any help. They were pretty sure the Teacher would not turn away their paralytic friend.

Their faith was focused solely in the power of Jesus Christ. Otherwise, with the house full, they just might have sought help from someone else. They saw the Master performing miracles beyond human comprehension. Though not understanding, they trusted in Him. Without faith in the power of Christ, they’d most likely skip the inconvenience of bringing their friend to Christ. With such strong faith, they persevered despite obstacles. Jesus affirmed their effort and granted their request. More than physical well-being, their friend received spiritual healing.

We all profess our belief in Jesus and love for God, but unless our conviction propels us into action, what we say remains lip service. I pray we walk our talk. Let us imitate the faith of the four men in our story. They touched the heart of God with a faith that released the power of Christ.

A HEART OF PERSEVERANCE 恆心

As the four men brought the paralytic to where Jesus stayed, they were met with an SRO (Standing Room Only) crowd. In those days, people with disability were outcasts of the community. Society believed that the physically-impaired were accursed. Despite the negative perception, the four friends were positively determined.

Instead, sacrificing their personal convenience and comfort, they strategized. They opened the rooftop and lowered the paralytic right in front of Jesus.

Similarly, missions work doesn’t always guarantee smooth sailing.

That is why aside from faith 信心, we also need perseverance 恆 心 to overcome any difficulty. As the saying goes, “Life is not a bed of roses.” In any endeavor, whether business or school projects, we often encounter hindrances and disappointments. Beyond these harsh realities of life, we persevere because this is the way we

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F E AT U R E S survive earthly trials. To earn a living, many of us willingly face hardships so our family or loved ones can enjoy “a better future.”

teachers of the law were among the crowd. These were religious leaders, yet none offered to usher the party before Jesus.

Brothers and sisters, Christ saved us so we must share the gospel.

We possess the Gospel that can forever change the destiny of the people we shared it to. The impact extends beyond this present world unto eternity. Because of this, we hold a tremendous responsibility not only to our loved ones, but also those who don’t know Jesus yet. Telling others about Jesus may entail some difficulties, but every person saved will be worth the sacrifice. Christ already paid the ultimate price, once for all. Let us strive to bring people to Christ, in response to His awesome deeds for you and me. Bringing people to Christ not only needs faith; it also requires perseverance.

We see a grim reality of what may be happening to us – modern day Christians. Our lack of love may obscure the work of Missions – hindering others from coming to Christ! Scriptures show that the very persons who “passively prevented” the paralytic from coming to Christ were the attentive listeners of the Teacher! They flocked to hear Jesus preach. These people can be commended for their “thirst” for God’s word. Yet in eagerness, they forgot to be sensitive to others. Their very presence turned out to hinder someone with greater need to approach Christ.

A HEART OF UNITY 同心

Like most popular sports, ministry is a team game. In fact, many ministries cannot be done single-handedly. The paralytic might be too heavy or bulky for one person to carry. Strength and balance must be applied to ensure a “smooth landing” from the roof. Two persons might maintain balance, but may lack the necessary strength. Three would supply enough strength, but can create an imbalance.

The sick person needed, at least, four men to carry him on a mat and lower him properly right in front of Jesus!

Unity means working together with one strength, by one motivation, toward one direction. The “Lone Ranger” mentality must be avoided

As “veteran” believers, are we an attraction or distraction to nonbelievers? We may not physically create a barrier like the crowd, but do our actions, speech, behavior and decisions stop people from knowing the Christ we professed to love?

Looking across the street (or across the sea), we may still find scores of spiritual paralytics around us. These people may be physically healthy, yet spiritually sick. Worse, they may not even be aware of their ailment. Hearts and thoughts paralyzed, they do not realize their need for Jesus. They need friends to love them, care for them, and most importantly, bring them to Christ. They will not and cannot come to Jesus on their own (they don’t know Him, in the first place).

Those who know Jesus must bring them to Jesus. The task falls on you and me.

We all profess our belief in Jesus and love for God, but unless our conviction propels us into action, what we say remains lip service. in any ministry. We often think working alone means working faster.

But Rev. Edmund Chan once reminded us with this African proverb, “(If we do it alone,) we may really go fast, but we won’t go very far.”

Brothers and sisters in Christ, love is all that matters. It remains firmly the motivation for all the ministries we do. Without love for God and men, all our effort means nothing.

We need others in ministry; they need us, too. Unity is not merely the absence of opposition. Rather, it requires the presence of everyone’s involvement.

Paul says, “If I speak in the tongues of men and of angels, but have not love, I am a noisy gong or a clanging cymbal. And if I have prophetic powers, and understand all mysteries and all knowledge, and if I have all faith, so as to remove mountains, but have not love, I am nothing. If I give away all I have, and if I deliver up my body to be burned, but have not love, I gain nothing.” (1 Corinthians 13:1-3)

Dear UECP member, we all come from different backgrounds and we have varied ways of doing things. Unless we humble ourselves and get our acts together, we will just labor in vain. We will have only ourselves to blame. Instead, we can use our diversities to complement rather than oppose one another. After all, we are serving the same God with the same goal – to let Christ be known among the nations!

A HEART OF LOVE 愛心

In bringing the paralytic to Christ, these four men showed they cared for their friend. Without love, they would have avoided all the hassles.

The paralyzed man could not move by himself. He may be conscious, but he was completely helpless. He needed someone willing to spend extra time and effort to take him to all the necessary places. He was also utterly hopeless. Considering the medical (in) capability in those days, a paralytic was as good as dead. His only hope rested on a miracle. In biblical times, transporting a sick person was a big challenge. These four men expressed sincere love for their friend by bringing him to Christ.

Quite the contrary, the crowd expressed a different attitude. The paralytic had to pass through the roof with much difficulty “because of the huge crowd.”

It really surprises me that not a single person in the crowd gave way to the helpless man and his friends to where Jesus was. Even more surprising was that, according to Luke, the Pharisees and the

In the same breath, Pastor Rick Warren exhorts, “No matter what we say, no matter how much we know, no matter what we do, no matter how much we give, no matter how strong our faith is, if we do not have love, they all mean nothing.”

CONCLUSION

The work of Missions is not easy. Writing to the Corinthian believers, Paul stressed that it is the love of Christ which compels him to share the gospel despite having to endure various difficulties, some even life-threatening.

In retrospect, do we have the love of Christ in us? Do we have the faith to believe Christ is the ultimate answer to man’s needs? Let us work in unity with perseverance, and do the work of missions!

A heart of faith, a heart of unity, a heart of perseverance and a heart of love. A Heart for Missions. Better yet, FOUR Hearts of Missions!

Edward Ong, an alumnus of Hope Christian High School, batch ’82, is an elder of UECP actively involved in various ministries of the church. He and his wife, Phing Phing, have 3 children. Know more about Edward when you read the tribute that his children wrote in this issue: Our Dad: A Responsible and Selfless Family Man.

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MEDICAL MISSION AND I Leonardo Go

MISSION EXPOSURES AS A MEDICAL STUDENT The desire for medical mission was inculcated in my heart during the early days of my medical school years, when missionary surgeon Dr. Eleazar Sarmiento, the founder of Medical Ambassador of the Philippines, brought our group of young, ambitious medical students to Good News Clinic in Banaue to experience mission work up there; to treat the sick, to assist in elective surgeries, and to witness the power of prayer and divine healing in most emergency cases. I immediately felt drawn to serve this community physically and spiritually.

Post UERM medical graduation, our Lord led me back to Bunhian, Mayaoyao (Mountain Province) to fulfill six months of rural service, a requirement to obtaining the Physician Licensure in the Philippines. My predecessor, Dr. Daniel Ong Kian Koc 王建國 長老醫生, a neurosurgeon, lived in a multipurpose nipa hut which served as an area for consultation, treatment, and lodging. He lighted gas lanterns, squatted in a pit toilet, drank running water from hollow bamboo connected pipes, and hiked in visitations. A new one storey concrete building was constructed near the old clinic site before I arrived.

In the afternoon, the bible school was held at Living Hope Missions where we lodged during our whole stay in Haiti. In the evening, we devoted the time after supper mostly to praying. We deeply believe that only prayer can triumph over Satan's dominion and his principalities in Haiti.

EXPERIENCING GOD’S PROVISIONS IN WEST AFRICA

In June, 2013, my wife and I, along with a NICU nurse, went to Cameroon, West Africa. The World Medical Mission, the medical arm of Samaritan Purse whose director is Franklin Graham, assigned us to Mbingo Baptist Hospital in Cameroon where our specialties are needed most.

Jehovah-Jireh, we were able to bring $ 6,000 worth of medical supplies and $ 9,000 worth of injectable antibiotics through the customs section uneventfully.

We ordered these by faith which turned out to be exactly what the missionary doctors in Mbingo needed. All were given to us free of charge by the pharmaceutical companies.

The diseases in Mbingo were more severe because they tend to neglect medical care and delay treatment when they are unable to pay for the services. We learned to practice medicine there with limited resources and depend on the power of prayer. By God’s mercy and healing power, we witnessed the survival of a premature baby found almost dead in the mother’s arm, and of a two-week-old congenital baby referred from another hospital for surgery. It was a wonderful experience to see doctors openly praying for the patients before every operation or in the patient wards.

I was put on test one midnight when a 19-year old male was brought to the clinic. He sustained a long deep laceration wound on his back secondary to a domestic violence. He was drunk, garrulous, and violent. I knelt and prayed silently for God’s wisdom and guidance before performing the fascia and skin closures.

Praise God this patient’s recovery was uneventful!

Mount Mbingo, Cameroon, West Africa.

One late afternoon, an 11-year old boy was bitten by a rattlesnake in the field. His left leg was swollen and tender. The clinic has no access to any land transportation out to the town of Mayaoyao. One has to hike 5 hours one way through the narrow, slippery mountain trail. Thanks to the Philippine Air Force which sent a military chopper to transport the needed medicine to the clinic site the next morning, this boy was saved by the Anti-Venom with no permanent serious complication. This also showed me the power of Christians’ prayer in that local church.

SPIRITUAL ENCOUNTERS IN HAITI

In the summer of 2005, my church in Illinois, USA formed a dental, medical and vacation bible school mission to Cape Haitien, Republic of Haiti.

In Haiti, voodoo was very rampant. They believe animals and demons can take control of a human body. Voodoo chanting, dogs howling, and drum beats were heard loudly every late evening till dawn.

The presence of demonic spirits was strongly felt everywhere. In the morning, we had free clinics for the indigents at Vision of Hope Center. This area was core rural and quite short of hospital facilities.

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Since leprosy is associated with a stigma, most family members did not accept the discharged lepers. The hospital had expanded their care by creating a community for them called The New Hope Village.

Every week, a pastoral staff, a wound care missionary nurse and a social worker visit the village to provide the resident lepers with medical, spiritual, and financial support.

One Sunday, we hiked uphill to the local church on the top of a mountain. The highlight of the worship service was the ceremony of the Pastor Appreciation love gifts from the congregation. They sang, accompanied by drum beats and bamboo shakers, and snakedanced to the front to offer money, cooked food, and fresh harvests to their pastor. How beautiful the scene was when church members showed their love and care for their pastor!

SHARING WITH THE KOREAN CHRISTIANS IN ETHIOPIA

We went to MyungSung Korean Christian Medical Center (MCM) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia from September 20th to October 6th, 2014.

From Monday to Friday, chaplains and medical staff visit to pray for and give spiritual counseling to the in-patients and their families.

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Frequently, they accepted Jesus Christ as their Lord and Savior.

My wife Margaret was privileged to lecture the medical staff on the subject of “Oxygen in Newborn's Resuscitation: How Much is Enough?” She also shared with the Korean Christians the testimony of Christopher Yuan 袁幼軒 who found a Gideon New Testament from the trash can in the maxi-security penitentiary and accepted Jesus as his personal Savior and Lord. Later, Christopher studied at Moody Bible Institute and became its instructor. I was honored to present the Gideons International Ministry to the same Korean congregation.

UECP AND MY CALL TO MISSION

The concept of summer mission was introduced to me way back during my UECP-Youth Evangelists years. Thanks to the then senior pastor, late Reverend Wesley Shao 邵慶彰牧師, then associate pastor, late Reverend Wesley Chang 張湖生牧師, and then youth pastor, Reverend Joseph Ong 王連炯牧師, who led the church young people to organize summer vacation bible school in Laguna, Daet, Vigan, Legaspi, or Angeles cities. The spirit of teamwork prevailed in the operation of every mission. For all of these experiences, I salute my mother church UECP, from the bottom of my heart. God bless UECP! Jesus said, “We must work the works of Him who sent Me while it is day. Night is coming, when no one can work.” John 9:4 耶穌說:”趁著白日，我們必須做那差我來者的工；黑夜將到，就沒有人 能做工了。”約翰福音 9章4節。 Dr. Leonardo Go is an alumnus of Hope Christian High School (Batch 1967), awardee of Fil‑Chi Outstanding Young Men 1967, President of Youth Evangelists (1968‑1969), Christian Soldier (1970), camp officer of church junior and summer camps (1965‑1971), and a member of Gideon International (2010). He graduated from the University of the Philippines (Pre‑Med, 1971) and obtained his degree: Doctor in Medicine from the University of the East (1975). He and his wife Margaret (also a doctor), are now retired from practice and residing in Chicago, U.S.A. They have 3 daughters.

Margaret’s Grand Round lecture at MCM Ethiopia.

CHRIST’S MINSTRELS: TR AVELING MUSICIANS WITH A MISSION CEDRIC TIU (TAIPEI,TAIWAN)

Christ’s Minstrels is an all-male singing group formed around 1987-88, with its members from different batches of Hope Christian School.

Our goal was to be Christ’s travelling musicians who spread God’s word to as many places as possible. Our evangelistic mission trips had led us to places including San Pablo, Naga, Daet, Lucena, Naga Gumaca, Zamboanga, General Santos and Davao where we did tract distributions, home visitations, children’s ministry, personal evangelism, and evangelistic and revival services. We also had fellowship ministries and Christmas caroling wherein the most memorable was the year we gave gifts to the needy. Even though Christ’s Minstrels has become inactive, the members of the group still keep in touch and we try to have at least one reunion every year. God has not only blessed us with so many wonderful and happy memories, but he also blessed us with lifelong friendships.

Christ’s Minstrels has brought all of its members to the front lines of spreading the Good News of God. This is something one cannot experience by merely being a fellowship or Sunday Worship attendee. It was an experience that not only lives on as a precious memory but an encounter that left us with a closer relationship with God and a greater understanding of His will.

legacy will continue, for this is how we know if our hearts is in sync with that of our Master.

JEOFFREY UY

Thank God for giving us the ability to store memories in our brain. Even though those pictures are now nowhere to be found, we can still recall the events, the experiences, the mission field that once was part of our lives. Indeed, no treasure is more precious than treasures stored in heaven. I remember that we always looked forward to summer time, when we can go visit our daughter/sister churches in the provinces; bringing with us the evangelistic songs, skits, and God’s word to share to those who have not yet known the Lord. As a member of Christ’s Minstrels in the ten years of its existence, I thank God for the opportunity to experience sharing the gospel to the kids (thru the DVBS), to the youths (during the afternoon fellowships), and the adults (evening evangelistic meetings). We also had the chance to visit almost all of UECP’s daughter churches and gospel stations including Vigan, La Union, San Pablo, Naga, Daet, Gumaca, Legaspi, Zamboanga, Gen. Santos, Cotabato. Praise the Lord!

DR. ARMANDO LIM (CHUPEI,TAIWAN)

“Go and make disciples of all nations.” This commandment of our Lord Jesus started a revolution more than 2000 years ago. More than 20 years ago, this same Jesus, this same command drove Christ’s Minstrels to different places in the Philippines to spread the good news. And it still resonates in my heart and will continue to do so until He comes again. For this is how we show our love to Him - that we feed His lamb. Jesus commanded us to make disciples not just converts. I pray with all my heart that this

Gen. Santos, Cotabato

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THE SOLID ROCK CONGREGATION IN-TUNE EVEN IF OFF-KEY ~ CRISTINA GO (TORONTO, CANADA)

SRC always means fellowship with like-minded Christians through music. It started out as a weekly rehearsal and meeting with fellow Christians, having the goal of spreading the Gospel through songs. The summer mission trips remain the highlight of the group. We go to places, speak in Tagalog and hope our Chinese accents don’t get too much in the way of making the Word understood. Sometimes, our keyboards fail to work, the minus-one tapes get messed up, our singing gets a bit out of tune, our story-telling in Tagalog becomes a comedy...Yet God has a way of using our weaknesses and turning these into His way of getting the message of grace across. We all had fun, but we also learn important spiritual faith-based lessons with each trip.

OF PT AND NR ~ JEANNEFER GO WONG

The highlight of my summer break would always be the evangelistic trips to nearby provinces which we fondly refer as “poh-toh” (PT)佈道. We would spend countless hours rehearsing and memorizing the songs, skit and spent even more hours laboring for the choreography. Often, we would just burst into laughter during rehearsals because most of us were artistically challenged to do even the simplest blockings. Excited and hopeful of a fruitful harvest, we set off to our destination, unmindful of being all cramped in the church van for long hours. During a particular “poh-toh,” we did the routine one-on-one evangelism; distribution of flyers and gospel track in the market district, all excited and ready for the evening’s program. The result wasn’t what we’d expected at all. So we went thru the customary evaluation with a heavy heart and gloomy faces, discouraged because not a single person accepted Christ that night (NR: No response). I remember Rev. Stephen Kwan, with a radiant face, told us not to act like a bunch of failures. He reminded us the battle is God’s and to continue with what we’re doing. We reap what other people sow before us. Perhaps this trip is for us to plant the seed, others will water it and still others will be the ones to reap the harvest. Our duty is to be faithful in sharing the gospel and leave the result to God. I still carry these words in my heart as I continue to serve my Master.

MY MEMORIES OF SRC ~ DANIEL GO

Solid Rock Congregation or more fondly known as SRC was my very first ministry involvement when I was with UECP. I was blessed to be part of it during the time the original members were still actively involved and was there to mentor us, the “newbies.” SRC was the instrument God used to help me discover my spiritual gifts. I fondly miss the old recording room at the old UECP building. It was a small, slightly musty, soundproof room. It had a small elevated stage with a piano on it and had the feel of an aquarium due to the large window panel where people outside can look into. I distinctly remember that during my 3rd week/rehearsal with the group, our conductor, Shirley Woo, called our attention to start our rehearsal and as usual, we started ours by doing vocal exercises, singing scales and other vocalizing stuff. It was then that some of the members excused themselves to go to the restroom. At first, they excused themselves one by one, then by pairs. With rising panic, I realized that I was the only one left in the room. Shirley tsi kept playing the scales and gestured for me to keep singing, and then she asked me to go up on stage beside the piano. I believe I broke out in cold sweat then because I realized that the notes were getting higher and higher and I was still the only singer left in the room.

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After a few more high scales, she stopped and turned to me and said “Congratulations, you’re a tenor and now an official member of the SRC.” It was then that I noticed all the other members standing outside looking in from the window and laughing hysterically. Then they started clapping while coming in and I was then informed that that was my “audition” and initiation. :P From then on, every summer, I would look forward to our preparation for our annual out-of-town trip to the provinces. We would partner with the local church (usually part of the UECP network) for these trips. Upon reaching the province, we would go out by 2’s to the different establishments along the main street and also to the different houses along the side streets and distribute gospel tracts and invites for our evangelistic meetings. And it was during one of these trips that I was called upon to translate. The assigned translator from the local church suddenly had an emergency medical situation that required immediate surgery. It was my very first time to translate during a sermon and I still thank God for my Ninong, Rev. Kwan, for “forcing” me to translate for him that evening. During these trips, we not only sang but also conducted VBS and taught Sunday school to the kids there. It was such a joy to see people accepting Christ and being added to His kingdom.

After each summer trip we would then start preparing for our Christmas activities. Every December, we would go caroling and took the opportunity to visit the less privileged members and families of UECP. Instead of receiving gifts or money for our effort, we were the ones giving gifts to the families we visited. We wanted to bless them and spread the season’s cheer to them. This was started by the original members of SRC and taught me the valuable lesson that Christmas is not just for our own enjoyment but is a season for sharing God’s love and joy to others.

Another thing I remembered about SRC was during my first three to four years with them, all the members were assigned to teach Sunday School on a monthly rotating basis at the home of Shirley tsi in the Gocheco Building. This was done every Sunday after lunch.

We had to go through the different floors of the building, knock on the doors and ask if any small kids there want to join the Sunday school. Some of the kids would even lead us to other units in the building where their friends resided to invite their friends. It was not a strange sight to see one SRC member walking with a group of small children going to the unit of Shirley tsi. Since we would be leading Sunday school either by ourselves or with a partner, we needed to prepare everything ourselves- from choosing songs to planning the Sunday school lesson or Bible stories, to teaching the kids and then bringing them back home to their units. All these were invaluable training grounds for me that I was able to apply in my life and in different church ministries.

During my last year with SRC, we travelled to Xiamen, China for a series of evangelistic meetings with the late Elder Ong Kim Peng.

It was during this trip that I realized that I am now seeing a new cycle. No longer was I the newbie but I was the “ayhia” overlooking the whole group with other older members. It was great to see a new generation of young, enthusiastic and passionate members ready to take the challenge of evangelizing through music.

I miss SRC and I miss it a lot!

HERALD * UNITED EVANGELICAL CHURCH OF THE PHILIPPINES PUBLICATION

NEWS

MISSION MONTH EVENTS

UECP had two distinguished guest speakers for its Mission Month this year. They were Rev. James Huang, Executive Director of Far East Broadcasting Company USA, Chinese Ministries; and Rev. Raju Sundas, Chief Executive Officer and co-founder of Hosannas Church Ministries in Nepal, They are both very passionate about missions.

The mission month kicked off with a revival meeting on June 4. Rev. Huang expounded on Acts 17 and showed us how we can follow the example of the Antioch church in being mission-minded. He spoke to the youth at College Fellowship, and to the adults at the Friday morning prayer meeting and the BOED (Board of Elders and Deacons) prayer meeting. He preached in three worship services on June 7. He was also the speaker in the Musical Evangelistic Concert hosted by the Mandarin Fellowship.

Dr. Raju Sundas, on the other hand, was the guest speaker in the dinner fellowship held for the UECP-supported missionaries on June 11. He was also the keynote speaker in the Missionary Conference conducted on June 12-13, and in the joint worship service on June 14, which culminated the mission month.

Dr. Raju Sundas encouraged us to always plan our programs with God’s mission in mind. We are not to limit missions to far-away places because our mission field can be near us as well. We ought to share the gospel in our factories, offices, and hospitals. Whenever we share the gospel to unbelievers, we are fulfilling the mission of God, so we should always be ready to be used by God in the area of missions.

KAIROS COURSE

The Christian Education Department invited Pastor Perlita Tan to teach the Kairos course, a course on the perspective of world missions. The class started on May 23 and ran for 10 weekly sessions every Saturday. This course is a must for every serious disciple, especially group leaders and pastors, who want to have a clear, biblical and practical perspective of missions in the life of the believer.

The study helped us not only to discover the missionary thread from Genesis to Revelation, it also gave us ideas and insights as we learned from the lives of today’s leading mission personalities, theologians and historians.

婦女團契週年感恩會

本會婦女團契於五月十四日下午六時 在本會副堂舉行成立三十五週年感恩 會。是日該會會友約有一百五十人踴躍 參加。大家一面享受美食一面欣賞著職 員們之第三、第四代兒孫精心準備的豐 盛精彩節目。其中有講故事、歌唱、古 箏獨奏。 此次感恩會職員們為與會的母親們各

DINNER FELLOWSHIP FOR UECP MISSIONARIES

More than 30 UECP-supported missionaries came to join the mission week activities. A dinner fellowship was hosted for them on June 11, and a Missionary Conference was held on June 12-13. Also on June 13, the missionaries were treated to an afternoon of relaxation by having a foot spa. The Board of Elders and Deacons also donated some new and used-but-still-useful things to our missionaries which they could use for their homes and in their ministry.

MISSIONS EXPOSED 1

On May 3, 2015, Rev. Eugene Hor spoke in a seminar entitled Missions Exposed. In this talk, he expounded on the goal and power of God’s mission and the means to accomplish God’s mission. Rev. Eugene Hor is a Presbyterian minister and church planter who leads the English ministry team and congregation at Grace Point Presbyterian Church in Sydney, Australia.

MISSIONS EXPOSED 2

On June 13, 2015, OMF missionaries shared their experiences in reaching out to a different religious block. The talk gave the audience a deeper appreciation for the lives of missionaries and the difficulties they encounter in the mission field, including the threat to their very lives.

準備一份禮物、更為八十歲以上的高齡 母親準備一份特別禮物以表敬意來慶 祝「母親節」。

該會為表揚榮獲今年模範母親獎的黃 吳健美長老，及榮獲第一屆模範母親獎 的施許白菊長老、上官莊秀環長老（由 長媳張愛蘭姐妹代表）、陳白麗珠執事 （由次女陳璀玲長老代表）、特各贈送 一份禮物並拍照留念。

主席黃吳健美長老報告將是日所收禮 金十萬菲幣獻予教會做聖工之用、由莊 道揚牧師代收。 這次慶祝會特請前母會會正，陳貽強 牧師講道，陳牧師引用了哥林多前書 15:3-4;7-9做為當晚的經文，題目為“ 我是何人”？

HERALD * UNITED EVANGELICAL CHURCH OF THE PHILIPPINES PUBLICATION

17

Title: THE SEARCH April 1 to 4, 2015 Chateau Royale Speaker: Pastor Donn Manalese

YPF Camp 2015

Title: Agents of Change April 29 to May 2, 2015 Mt. Makiling Recreation Center Speakers: Sister Elizabeth Yu and Pastor Ana Ong

Junior Camp 2015

College Camp 2015

Title: Life InC April 15-18, 2015 Rizal Re-Creation Center Speaker: Pastors Jay Bansuelo and Bryan Kimball Sy

High School Summer Camp 2015

Title: Clan of Christ, You and His Army May 27 to 30, 2015 Mt. Makiling Recreation Center Speaker: Jeanette Yu

Q& A

FOR CHURCH LEADERS & YOUTH Wyndale Wong

FOR NEW CHRISTIANS, HOW DO WE MAKE IT EASIER FOR THEM TO START HAVING DEVOTIONS? HOW SHOULD THEY DO IT? Elder Belen Lim: They can start with devotion with guide questions. There is also a Serendipity Bible, where you can read it with some questions noted on the side of the pages.

Elder Jeoffrey Uy: New Christians should have a heart for it. They need an accountability group to follow up and go through this new journey with them.

Elder Irene Pedro: We can model the devotion time with new Christians, as in, have actual devotions and do it with them. Tell them some struggles you had in devotions and encourage them to do it; new things are not easy. Just spend time with them, just 15 minutes at a time, and do it with them regularly for a few times. You can ask them a few questions after devotion.

Deacon Francis Tan: They have to want it on their own.

Responsibility is on them since this is personal. But we can guide them for the first few sessions, and just follow- up afterwards.

WHAT’S THE MOST MEMORABLE “FATHER MOMENTS” YOU EVER HAD? Angelee Tiu Tong: There was a time when Papa fetched me from school at kindergarten, then he bought me this cup-shaped-like character in Lion King, then he brought me to eat at Jollibee. There were also those times when he told me bedtime stories about a prince fighter and a dragon; he told the same story every night, but I loved it anyway. I used to play with my dad before going to school, when I would often grab his shirt from the back, then he would pretend to look for me.

Enrico Santos: When I was little, one time, my dad and I wore a match-y polo shirt, belt with phone case attached to it (during the time when Nokia 3310 was popular) and leather shoes. We then went to the mall to watch movies, buy some things and went to church together. That was a father-son bonding moment that will always be in my memories.

Thomas Tan: My most memorable father moment would be the time when my dad helped me to learn how to ride a bike without training wheels. It was awesome.

Nicolette Ong: I remember my dad patiently made me drink my milk through a shot glass! That’s how he trained me to drink from a glass (the transition from feeding bottles).

WHAT IS THE BIGGEST CHALLENGE NOW YOU ARE FACING IN YOUR MINISTRY/SERVICE TO THE LORD? HOW DO YOU DEAL WITH IT? Pastor Amanda Tan: One of the biggest challenges for me is self spiritual disciplines, because I know that I have to be consistent. It helps to have an accountability partner to help encourage you in keeping the spiritual disciplines.

Elder Judy Tan: One of the biggest challenges for me is on how to sustain passion in the ministry. I keep reminding myself why I am doing this. I also ask God to keep me faithful..

Elder Steven Sy: A big challenge for me right now is my growing involvement in missions. I feel that I’m rather new in this ministry even though I’ve been in the mission board for several years. How to deal with it? It’s really by prayers, lots of prayers..

Deacon Henry Ngo: A continuous challenge is really the balance between career and ministry. We have to set up our priorities, only then can we start to plan from there.

HOW CAN WE MOTIVATE THE YOUTH TO ATTEND WORSHIP SERVICES AND FELLOWSHIPS, THE WAY THEY ARE MOTIVATED WITH ONLINE GAMES? Wesley Lim: It’s simple. Know what the youth are into and why they find some things, like online games, fun.

Their goal is to enjoy and feel the rush. Perhaps worship services or fellowships can still meet their own goals while being fun. Maybe worship songs can be livelier, have more relevant youth fellowship messages, and the church people could be friendlier and make people especially the new attendees feel more welcomed, with sincerity and long-term sustainability.

Jeffrey Ong: Building intentional relationships with them is one way to motivate them to come to church just as how others motivate them to play online games Heidi Chan: Besides speaking about Biblical truth, we can encourage the youth to attend if the church have fellowship topics that could be relevant to their daily lives, including real life experiences, testimonies, trials and victories in the Lord. It would also help if we keep them involved in the different ministries of our church so that they would feel connected and feel right at home. Follow ups and encouragement from mentors, counselors, brothers and sisters in church are also a big help.

Leila Young: We can encourage the youth here in UECP to bring and accompany their friends to the worship services or fellowships, not just to invite or persuade them. Their relationship with the youth here will act as a door to the fellowship or worship service.

特 寫

懷念先父許仁和執事 許心仰

唯獨趁幼行善，堅定不移時刻跟隨耶穌。 先父許仁和執事，福建省同安人，生於一 九一三年三月十四日。先祖許崇塔早年移 居厦門鼓浪嶼，服務鼓浪嶼郵政局數十 年；育有子女八人，先父排行第二，為人忠 厚，好學不倦，半工半讀，畢業後執教於 福民學校。數年後，先父隻身渡菲，入菲 律賓神學院進修，後棄學從商，服務美國 公司多年，他白天努力工作，晚間則自修 英語對話技巧。偶爾深夜會夢裡郎誦英 文詞句。經過幾年的努力奮鬥，终於榮升 全公司銷售第一的名銜。 一九四三年與先母莊淑敏女士結婚。育有 三男一女。大姐心微，大哥心颂，我心仰， 小弟心正。父母為我們起名時意味着我們 要在主面前先誠心微小謙卑，然後以心頌 讚主，全心仰望主，愛心見証主恩。先父 篤信基督，熱心事主，歷任中華基督教會 執事，常偕主內同道往山頂州府佈道，引 人歸主。他也是兄弟團契的忠心契友。逢 星期四晚，風雨無阻，必去赴會。 一九八七年十月二號大哥心頌急逝。先父 先母失去旭日東昇的大兒，痛心疾首；他 們面臨人生最大的試煉，但仍然信靠主 的旨意。並且提醒我們人生富貴如浮雲，

先父時常鼓勵我們要自力尋求知識。他特 地為我們買了一套科利百科全書(Collier’s Encyclopedia)，後來又增添了一套大英百 科全書(Encyclopedia Britannica) 和一套 世書百科全書 (World Book Encyclopedia) 以方便我們在家自修。我們的確是如獲至 寶，並且滿足和增進了我們對文學和科學 的知識。對於當時只是一個銷售員收入微 薄的父親，三套百科全書是不小的投資， 但我們在學業成績方面，獲益良多。晚飯 餐桌上是我們兄弟姊議論時事、科學、政 治、宗教、無所不談的黃金時段。偶而吵得 臉红耳熱時母親叫停，但先父仍然鼓勵我 們繼續暢所欲言，從而訓練我們的獨立思 考能力，只要求我們動口不動手。 先父愛好中國文學歷史，閒時舉筆書法， 或寫散文自娛。並且時刻提醒我們要多看 中文報紙書籍。書櫃藏書有【古文觀止】 ，唐詩宋詞，數本詞典字典，以增強我們 的中文根底，使我們自幼中英並重。 平時節儉耐勞，殷勤積蓄，雖不富裕，先 父仍然定期滙款孝敬在中國的父母，及資 助兄弟姊妹。 一九七三年先父給我一張單程機票及美

金二百五十元負笈留學。我一九九零年回 菲助理家業，令先父興奮雀躍。轉眼廿餘 載，流年似水，父母也已年老髮白，我很 珍惜相聚的機會，時常陪他們飲茶吃飯， 旅遊購物。 先父平日身體健壯，不幸於一九九三年四 月廿四日忽然腦充血，永息主懷，享年八 十一歲。 物無常青不衰，人無長生不老。可是先父 供奉父母的孝心，待人以真的榜樣，愛好 文學的修養，勤勞節儉的價值觀，以及愛 神愛人的精神紮根在他子孫基因裡，一代 一代永傳不息。 父母是上帝賜給我們最神聖的禮物！ 許心仰是嘉南中學校友。年 輕時参加菲律賓中華基督教 會唱詩班，也是青年宣道隊 隊友。一九七三年畢業於菲 律賓國立大學，榮獲電機工 程學士學位。繼而在美國依 利洛工程學院榮獲電腦及電 子工程雙碩士學位。在美期 間服務於美國AT&T貝爾實驗室(Bell Labs) 擔任通 訊標準主任，代表公司在聯合國通訊標準組(CCITT) 制定互聯網通訊標準，使不同大小電腦，既使語言 有異，皆能互聯互通。後來被調派出任公司在中國 北京的數據業務總經理。現在香港退休生活。

「回顧過去丶勇往直前」 劉申華

菲律賓中華基督教會宣道部於2014年二 月開設新事奉工場：每天好中心丶英文名 叫Menukha Center。中心設立主要目的 是特別為岷市華人設立白天的銀髮族活 動。Menukha是根據詩篇23:2希臘文含意 是安息水邊。 開辦中心是為長者提供不同類型的活動及 服務。関心長者的身、心、靈需要、使他們 的晚年生活積極、豐富、有意義。同時也提 供機會讓長者們彼此學習丶互相扶助。 回顧過去一年、經歷到聖經撒母耳記上7章 12節、「到如今耶和華都幫助我們」。感謝 上帝在一年內為中心預備了17位有愛心、耐 心又有創意思維的義工丶持之以恆地為老 人服務; 多位主內兄弟姐妹每週一三五固定

20 先 鋒 會 刊

的負責活動丶會員從20多位增加到80多位; 除此之外，每次聚會都邀請很好的講員分 享信息與生活指導。上帝無數的供應與帶領 丶帶給我們這群長者許多歡聲笑語丶心中 滿有說不盡的感恩。 每天好中心雖然沒有很大的空間丶但是總 有一股很濃厚的溫馨，使每個人能找到樂 趣丶每個角落都能看到長者的微笑。經過 一年多的成長丶其間説長也不長説短也不 短丶背後有很多同工們因爲有同樣觀感丶共 同的理念而走了一起，並且我們決定攜手向 前做出更多的愛心奉獻。因為瞭解很多年 長的前輩需要幫助丶孤苦冷丁丶單獨生活丶 希望中心能持續將愛與關懷帶給年邁的老 人丶讓這群老人在這個小小的家能庶風庶 雨、黃昏時節有䕃疪的好地方、這是中心最

大望想及期待。 十五年前對主領受的異象終於實現了。籌備 這份工作之前丶同工們面對許多問題與挑 戰。一路走來丶上帝卻總在我們最需要的時 候，為我們安排很多人愛心的資助丶誠意的 指導丶使我們在經濟上無所掛慮丶事工開展 上得到很多指示。 「回顧過去丶勇往直前」未來的一年丶每天 好中心希望讓長者參與有趣的活動丶學習 電腦、注意康健等等。今年中心開始以「愛 的花朶」為長者設謀生的機會丶同時也發 揮義工們的創造力。在此衷心地感謝你們 的代禱丶支持及鼓勵丶一起同工丶使我們有 勇氣的面對將來，及見證上帝的偉大與奇 妙。願一切榮耀歸給上帝！

Zumba

iPad 班

特 寫

中華宣教改變了我！ 邵莊秀美博士

生長在世俗佛教家庭的我，如今成了跟隨耶穌的傳道人，甚至 全職參與培育教牧人才的服事，其中過程少不了中華教會宣教 事工给予我的幫助與支持。 （一）由上至下 上帝的靈感動中華教會一群愛主愛人的忠心僕 人，順服那上頭來的異象，不僅在大岷市中心建立教堂，為了宣 揚福音的負擔，更看見基督教教育的重要性，建立了嘉南中學， 到如今已經有了六十九年的歷史， 嘉南中學立校目標是：[ 願 每一位進入一「嘉南」的學生畢業出去都歸入耶穌基督名下。] 我們家中九位兄弟姊妹，其中有八位就讀嘉南中學，我們的心 中都栽下了耶穌福音的好種子。雖然畢業後經歷不少社會環境 種種考驗、奮鬥及挑戰，個個最终都成立了以主耶穌為中心的 家庭！ 這現象也在歷届嘉南校友身上重演。可見嘉南中學以基 督教教育宣教碩果纍纍，確實如經上所記：「發生長大, 結實有 三十倍的，有六十倍的, 有 一百倍的」(可四8)。 （二）由內至外 中華教會不僅注重內部培育信徒靈命，每年花 上龐大經費舉行大小型佈道會、培靈會、暑假夏令營、冬會等 等，還有不少教會團契職員退修㑹；又參與教會以外其他福音 機構合辦的培靈會、訓練營。而我本人就是在一次聚會中受聖 靈感動，蒙主呼召全職事奉。當我清楚主呼召而準備放下工作， 踏入神學院接受裝備前，還未信主的家父苦口婆心地勸導：「家 中子女妳最體貼父母，為何要把一份好工作辭掉而去當什麼尼 姑？！」（家父後來在主恩待下，信服基督且受洗呢。）那時中華 主任牧師邵慶彰牧師（後來成了我家翁）帶領宣道差會同工為 我禱告。 不久家父居然允許我唸神學，宣道會以每月三百元補 助我受訓費用。我實在經歷主恩够用，還有節省下來一部份幫 助家費。如今我父母親都歸入耶穌名下，而我也從當年的門徒 成為培訓門徒者！因主發出使命說：「去、使萬民作我的門徒、

莊麗明

班

奉父子聖靈的名，給他們施洗，凡我所吩咐你們的，都教訓他們 遵守，我就常與你們同在，直到世界的末了」（太廿八18-19）。 （三）由近至遠 信實可靠又招人宣傳福音真理的上帝，帶領中 華教會今年進入第八十六年創辦慶禧， 教會牧者長執都持守 宣教之心，實在難能可貴。 翻閱其宣教足跡，北上至美岸、南 下至三寶顏，已經建立了二十五間支會及六間佈道所。教會創 辦之初， 教會主日奉獻金錢，三分之一的收款是撥給宣道事工 使用。時常回想起已故邵牧師在講道中懇切叮嚀：「教會一定 要注重宣教事工，因為有宣教的教會必定有增長。」中華教會同 工不怕為宣揚福音而爬山過海，並支持許多國內國外宣教士離 鄉背井，到近鄰遠方為福音擺上。近年， 中華宣道事工關顧教 堂左右貧民區福音救人事工，也打開雙手迎接繼續不斷入境的 中國新僑，使他們有機會接觸福音，信服基督，成為上帝兒女。 主耶穌在離別門徒，歸回天家之時， 祂特別祈求天父因所賜主 的名保守他們；又以所賜的真理使他們成聖；最后主向天父說： 「祢怎樣差我到世上，我也照様差他們到世上」（約十七18）。 中華宣道事工加油！願差遣的主更多賜福一切宣教參與人士， 使萬國萬民都服伏在主耶穌名下！我們的主應許說：「但聖靈 降臨在你們身上，你們就必得著能力，並要在 耶路撒冷、猶太 全地 ，和撒瑪利亞，直到地極，作我的見證 」（徒一8）。 邵莊秀美博士Dr Rosa Ching Shao, 在菲律濱聖經神 學院擔任教師職位，並負責實習部主任，及學生輔導中 心。她完成在美國俄亥俄州辛辛那提大學的教育硕士， 和在馬尼拉雅典耀大學的臨床心理學博士。她也是國際 哈該學院的其中一位教授。 與其先生邵晨光院長一起 相夫教子，育有一男二女；經常應邀到海外及本地各教 會及會議主講基督徒家庭與教牧輔導課題。

我參加每天好中心感言

光陰似箭、轉眼一年多、相聚如家人丶 彼此互助扶持丶砌磋丶交換心聲丶融合 感情，濃於親情。讓我不由地想起中心 裡有好多會員在無形中改變丶在精神 狀況、心情丶性格各個方面都發生了變 化丶由起初的內向孤僻轉變成為喜樂平安，常常面帶 微笑、並且漸漸主動發表意見、甚至把自己的感受傾 訴於大衆。非常高興能在這小小的中心目睹到這些改 變。所以在這小小的家庭關愛之下，上帝的愛真的能改 造一個人，從內至外成爲新造的人。 在中心裡有很多活動項目丶如手工丶運動丶健康舞蹈丶 初級電腦課程、簡單飪烹。。。讓每個會員啓發心智、 鍛鍊身體、調養身心。 相信每天好中心會成為社會公認的年長者團體丶幫助 一些孤單的年長老人，可以發揮身心康安的去處丶慢慢 成爲大家庭的團體。不但從孤獨無伴的情緒、活躍、向

外學習丶使生活來得更有價值觀的長者。

李秀治 我覺得很榮幸又高興能有機會來參加 每天好中心操練。自從我去年底參加、 我盡量爭取時間來操練。以前我沒來中 心的日子，總覺得身體好虛弱疲乏，精 神慌慌怱忽的丶現在身體覺得比以前 更有精神丶體力也大增。 每天好中心不僅提供操練、經常請專家給我們講解健 康養生的方法、給我們這一群年老人們學到很多保健 知識。 我要感謝教會提供這麽舒適的場所，讓我們安心的操 練、不受風雨炎陽的煎熬、在此更要感謝每天好中心 各位的同工義工們、每次都為我們提供無微不至的服 務和照顧丶在此道萬二分之謝意。 先 鋒 會 刊

21

特 寫

我們在天上的父 關國瑞牧師

「所以，你們禱告要這樣說：我們在天上的父……」 （太6: 9 ） 『主禱文』是我們非常熟悉的經文，是主耶穌教導門徒的禱 告文，是禱告的模範。開始時，特別提到「我們在天上的父」 ，告訴我們與上帝的關係是「父與子」的關係。其中有三層意 義：

認識衪是「屬我」的： 主說：「我們在天上的父」，不是「你們」在天上的父，乃是「 我們的」。我們是屬於上帝的，上帝是屬於我們的。所以要認 識上帝是屬於我們的是非常重要，也是首要的，因為我們與 衪的關係比什麼都重要。 主耶穌說：「我是道路、真理、生命，若不藉著我，沒有人能到 父那裡去。」衪是唯一的真神，唯一的天父，是屬於你的。如 果衪不是屬於你的，衪有多麼好，多麼偉大，對於你都是沒有 用的。小孩子有爸爸在，他會感到安全。因為爸爸是他的，爸 爸愛他，爸爸是他隨時的幫助和保護。爸爸對於小孩子是多 麼重要，多麼寶貴。主禱文裡所有屬靈的恩典和屬靈的豐富， 都在這個「父」的關係裡面。 「阿爸父」這個名稱是猶太人非常喜歡的。據說猶太人的小 孩子出生以後，第一個學會叫的名字就是「阿爸」，由此可見 「阿爸」這個名稱是多麼寶貴。假如猶太人的小孩出生後，會 講得第一句話就是「阿爸」。那麼，我們能呼叫「阿爸父」 的 時候，也就代表我們屬靈生命的開始，我們重生了，跟這三位 一體的真神，有著一種密不可分的生命關係。

認識衪是「屬天」的： 「我們在天上的父」，而不是在地上的父。地上的父有缺點， 又虧欠，有瑕疵。我們這些在地上作父親的，免不了對家人， 對孩子都有軟弱。坦白說我是牧師，我做的也可能不夠好。有 一次我對女兒大聲說話，過後我難過得晚上睡不著覺，後來 我抱起女兒向她道歉。我想很多人都有這樣的軟弱，但是聖 靈不放過我，聖靈感動我，讓我​​為自己的行為難過自責。 感謝神，我們在天上的父親沒有缺點，他是一位完美的父 親。不但如此，我們知道整個宇宙都是衪創造的。這麼榮耀 偉大的神竟然與卑微的人同在，這位用衪的全能托住萬有的 神，竟然沒有忽略天空的小鳥，地上的野花，更沒有忽略地上 的一棵沒有價值的草。《馬太福音六章》告訴我們兩個重要 的信息: 1、「你們的天父是知道的。(v32) 」2、「你們的天父 養活它。(v26)」一位屬天的，偉大的神，竟然對地上的，這渺 小卑微的生命都沒有忽略，何況我們這完全投靠他的兒女們 呢？我們要記住，無論困難有多大，在我們與困難之間永遠有 天父的同在；我們不要透過困難來看天父，而是要透過天父 來看困難；這就是我們的信心。在我們與困難中間看見我們 的天父，我們對於困難就會有一種不同的看法。

一個信心的小故事： 據說在二次世界大戰結束後，有一位在戰爭中失去丈夫的 寡婦，在某年的平安夜，來到一家雜貨店希望要點吃的來過

22 先 鋒 會 刊

節；她對老闆說：「我要買食物，可是我沒有錢。但我可以為 你禱告呀。」老闆是個不信上帝的人，他說：「你怎麼為我禱 告？」這位寡婦拿出一張早預備好的禱告文，說：「我為你禱 告。」老闆說：「好吧，把你的禱告放在稱的一頭，稱稱你的 禱告文有多重，你便拿多少東西。」說罷便把一條麵包放在稱 的另一頭，希望趕快打發她走。誰知那稱動也不動，再放一條 麵包，還是不動。他很生氣地說：「我今天很忙不要煩我了， 你喜歡拿多少東西，隨便拿吧。」然後丟給她一個裝食物的 籃子。於是她拿了很多的食物，連聲道謝後便回家過節了。寡 婦走後，老闆檢查稱為什麼不動？結果發現稱剛好壞了。奇怪 吧？為什麼早不壞，而在寡婦禱告的時候卻壞了？是天父顧 念這寡婦和她的家人。 親愛的弟兄姊妹，我們生活中各自都有不同的困苦和掙扎， 但是不要忘記，還有一位愛我們的天父。這個充滿災難、困 苦的世界，對於不信上帝的人，真的不曉得出路在哪裡？

認識衪是「屬愛」的： 主耶穌首次用「阿爸父」之名時，是在「客西馬尼園」禱告的 時候，也就是衪面臨生命最大掙扎的時候；以「阿爸父」的稱 呼來禱告，是主耶穌緊緊抓住衪與父的那種愛的關係，「阿爸 父啊，我愛你的，你也愛我的，我們彼此的愛是親密無間的； 縱然我不願意走這條痛苦的路，可是為著你的緣故，為著我 愛你的緣故，我甘願放下自己。」結果，恩主耶穌在痛苦中學 習了愛的順服。主耶穌禱告的力量是從哪裡來的？通過短短 的幾句禱告的話，因為有愛的動力在衪裡面。衪愛天父，因 為這愛是沒有任何力量可以分開的；既然如此，我愛你就完 全聽你的話，為著愛你，即使很苦，我也要放下自己，完全順 服。 親愛的弟兄姊妹，每當我們在生活中遇到困難和試驗的時 候，總以為天父不愛我：如果衪愛我，為什麼給我這麼多的苦 難？如果衪愛我，為什麼不幫助我？不聽我禱告？我們常常用 這種自問自答的方法來懷疑衪，可是你若認識清楚天父的愛 是永不改變的，如果你認識衪是最愛你的「阿爸父」的時候， 你就會順服。我們要記住天父已經把三樣很寶貴的因素，放 在我們的生命裡面: (1) 天父的名(2) 天父的愛(3) 天父的兒子 天父將衪的名、衪的愛和主耶穌放在我們裡面，我們也在他 裡面，就會知道我們與衪的關係是多麼親密。我們是屬於衪 的，我們也是屬於衪所愛的。其實禱告的真正意義是在於 你和天父的關係。你如果得到了天父的愛就一定會禱告。故 此，要記住我們與上帝有一個非常重要的關係，就是父親與 孩子的關係。 關國瑞牧師是加州Cupertino灣區基督之家第五家 的主任牧師。他曾於1987年至1992年擔任菲律賓中 華基督教會主任牧師也是本會2005年至今的顧問牧 師。

宣教使命的傳承

特 寫

李子群牧師

我們既有這許多的見證人、如同雲彩圍著我們、就當放下各樣 的重擔、脫去容易纏累我們的罪、存心忍耐、奔那擺在我們前頭 的路程、仰望為我們信心創始成終的耶穌．〔或作仰望那將真道 創始成終的耶穌〕他因那擺在前面的喜樂、就輕看羞辱、忍受了 十字架的苦難、便坐在 神寶座的右邊。那忍受罪人這樣頂撞 的、你們要思想、免得疲倦灰心。” (希伯來書12:1-3) 我們或許不容易意識到其實這段經文是用最精簡扼要的筆法， 教導我們要如何作耶穌的門徒。作者指出作耶穌的門徒所將面 臨的種種挑戰，就如耶穌在世上所經歷過的，包括被羞辱、被頂 撞、受十字架的苦難等等。作耶穌的“信徒”或許不必經歷這些 苦難，可是要作耶穌的“門徒” ，在奔跑天路的路程上，這些經 歷是在所難免的，尤其是那些要認真遵守耶穌所吩咐的大使命 的門徒，更是如此。所以我們要甩掉各方面的重擔和那些會纏 累我們的罪，忍耐堅持地奔跑。 作門徒要忍受這麼多的苦難，而不致於疲倦、灰心、放棄，這談 何容易！好在作者為我們指出一條雙軌的出路：一是把那些如 雲彩般多的走在我們前頭的屬靈前輩們的經歷當為指路燈、得 仿效、得鼓勵；二是仰望那為我們信心創始成終的主耶穌，從祂 得鼓勵、得指引、得力量。 在我們教會裡，那些走在我們前頭的上一代屬靈領袖及長者 們，真的如雲彩那麼多圍繞著我們。他們不只是一些愛主的信 徒而已，更是一些願意為宣教而犧牲付出的屬靈鬥士。中華基 督教會在30年代成立播道團到處宣教佈道；也聘請到神學家 及宣教士雙重身份的黃原素牧師擔任主任牧師，黃牧師忠心教 導聖經關於宣教的真理，奠定了教會信仰的基礎以及重視宣教 使命的傳統。60年代邵慶彰牧師接任後，遂成立宣教委員會， 他常說我們教會是改革宗的信仰，地方教會的組織，宣道會的 宣教精神。邵牧師重視實踐，把傳福音的工作落實在信徒生活 上，教會裡的長老執事們要經常出外佈道、到處建立佈道所及 分堂。這些屬靈長者都成了四面八方圍繞著我們的片片雲彩 ， 可以說我們這些在中華基督教會學習做門徒的人真是得天獨厚 的一群哦！ 筆者於1970年得朋友邀請參加剛成立的綠洲團契第一次的正 式聚會，當大夥兒在學唱邵慶彰牧師所寫的綠洲團契團歌時， 激昂地唱出最後一句“. . . 同宣揚十架真福音，恭候我主再臨” ，歌詞深深吸引了我的心靈，從此就成了打死都不走的忠心契 友，當然也因而有幸躋身在中華基督教會這得天獨厚的一群蒙 福者了。 在綠洲團契裡服事期間，得到教會大家庭的良性影響及樂傳福 音大環境的陶冶，開始踏踏實實地學習傳福音，曾先後受過“屬 靈四律”及“三元福音倍增”（三福）的訓練，除了到公園派福音 單張之外，也隨隊逐家敲門傳福音，為日後全時間服事預先作 好了基本訓練。 綠洲團契素來執守教會的傳統，重視宣教，積極從事各項廣傳 福音的事工。事隔多年，只能從已漸消褪的記憶中舉列其一二：

講福音信息，帶領慕道友接受福音，受洗入會者頗眾，諸如劉豐 誠弟兄、許純純姊妹、郭滿謝醫師等等都是綠洲的福音果子。 曾先後數次在陸海軍俱樂部及本教會舉辦聚餐播道會，引領慕 道友信主。 契友定時編寫、錄製「綠洲呼聲」福音話劇，寄送到遠東廣播電 台，每週六在DZAS播出。 由吳上官錦蓉契友自編自導的「老夫子蒙恩記」、「移民與定 居」等福音喜劇，並由筆者領銜演出，創意性地播種福音種子。 1987年初在美國南加州成立綠洲團契分會，分享福音並帶領當 地華人參加團契。 1992年分別在美菲保險公司音樂廳及喜來登大酒店舉辦大型 佈道會，邀得台灣金馬獎得主巨星孫越先生主講。會前三個 月，團契職員就已投入大量時間禱告、籌劃、聯繫，契友們也都 傾巢而出，邀請許多非信徒和慕道友來赴會。筆者當時因去過 韓國接受敬拜讚美的訓練，也義不容辭地開始帶領敬拜團員 六人及司琴，一起付出長時間的禱告和練習，一起擔任大會領 唱，帶領會眾詩歌敬拜，預備心接受屬靈宴席，也促進大會的屬 靈氣氛。該次聚會聖靈大大運行，上千人赴會，多人決志接受福 音。 每月一次在主日下午，同工們一起到崇基醫院主持福音聚會。 從領詩、禱告、到講道、翻譯等等都全套由有負擔的契友們輪 流承擔，其他契友則以禱告支持鼓勵，大家分工合作，興旺福 音。 成立「愛心小組」分區查經聚會，除了藉著查經促進契友的靈 命成長，也按時探訪久未參加聚會的契友，及邀請慕道朋友參 加愛心小組。 綠洲團契只不過是中華基督教會裡一個小小的肢體，卻願意透 過教會長者的領導、鼓勵、支持，善用上主所給的種種恩賜和 資源，在宣教事工上盡上綿薄之力，成為多人的祝福；當然其中 最大的受益者，反而是我們這些願意付出金錢、時間、恩賜的契 友和職員們，因為我們始終都仰望那創始成終的耶穌，也因為 有如雲彩般的屬靈長者四面圍繞著我們，讓我們不致於疲倦、 灰心、放棄。 願中華基督教會這個重視宣教使命的美好傳統能繼續薪火相 傳，每一代成為下一代的雲彩，代代傳承下去，一直到主耶穌榮 耀的再臨 李子群牧師乃菲律濱中華基督教會會友,曾在綠洲團契 服事多年,1985年移居美國。李牧師在美國Biola大學 Talbot神學院獲道學碩士及神學碩士學位。2004年至 2014年在美國遠東廣播公司中國福音事工部擔任執行 主任,退休後繼續以總裁特別助理身份在【遠東】服 事。 他和師母楊惠蘭育有4個孩子和2個孫女,現定居美 國南 加州帕薩迪納市.

契友經常踴躍邀請慕道朋友參加聚會，並定期邀請特約講員宣 先 鋒 會 刊

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A Heart for Missions; 4 Hearts of Missions

中華宣教改變了我!

宣教使命的傳承

Medical Mission and I