0129-6868MCI MCI (P) ISSNISSN 0129-6868 (P)019/11/2017 057/11/2018
Vol 121 No 1 • JAN 2019
inside
this issue...
message.methodist.org.sg message.methodist.org.sg
ETAC, CAC and TRAC Highlights of their 43rd sessions
Missions The Rev Philip Lim’s journey of love
The Order of St Luke Hearing God in silence
pages 4–11
page 17
page 19
BISHOP’S NEW YEAR MESSAGE Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung was elected Bishop of The Methodist Church in Singapore in 2016. He served as President of the Chinese Annual Conference from 2008 to 2016.
NEW EVERY MORNING: BLESSINGS AND BEGINNINGS
T
he dawning of a new year brings hope of a new beginning, a fresh start.
live (Eccles 3:1–14). We need also to be grateful for all the goodness and blessings that come our way.
A Chinese expression provides a timely reminder: The whole year’s work depends on a good start in spring, and the whole day’s work on a good start in the morning. Time flashes by and unless it is managed and planned, each day passes quickly and leaves us with much regret when night falls. The days and seasons roll by in the same routine and, before we know it, the year has gone by and we have nothing to show for it.
We know we are all living in finite time. Let us not feel too anguished for persons or things that will perish, but be hopeful and excited about the new that is to come. It is natural for us to feel sad on losing our life partner, loved ones or friends. Often, this sadness is tinged with much regret and reluctance to bid farewell. It is for this reason that we should cherish the present and find opportunities to affirm and show appreciation to those around us.
The new superseding the old is a general law of nature that God laid down for His creation. All living matter undergoes the process of growing, reproducing and perishing. An important message in Ecclesiastes is that there is nothing new under the sun. All God’s creation lives under His natural law: for everything there is a season, a time for every activity under heaven. A time to be born and a time to die; a time to plant and a time to harvest. In this cycle of the new replacing the old, God is the beginning and the final point. As part of God’s creation, there is nothing better for men than to be happy and do good while they
Being new creations in Christ, we experience transformation and renewal of life, not decline and death. As Paul said, though outwardly we are wasting away, yet inwardly we are being renewed day by day. Therefore, we do not lose heart (2 Cor 4:16). We will not be pessimistic over the passage of time. The year past is being superseded and the new year is a fresh beginning. Let us look forward to a fresh start in the new year. Have a happy and blessed year! n Picture by Grisha Bruev/Bigstock.com
COMING UP
DAD AND MOM GO BACK TO SCHOOL
C
AC Board of Family Life (BOFL) has started a series of English and Mandarin workshops aimed at reinvigorating fathers and mothers to become spiritually healthy parents, who serve their families and churches faithfully. Modelled after the Duranno Father / Mother School in Korea, the workshops help fathers and mothers recognise their special roles as nurturers of the next generation, and their responsibility in creating a healthy family culture. CAC BOFL believes that rebuilding strong and healthy families is essential to transform and bring social holiness into our communities. Details of the upcoming Father and Mother School are appended below: 1. Father School (English): God’s Dream for our Family Lesson 1: 20 Feb 2019 (Wed), 6.30 to 10.00 p.m. Lesson 2: 23 Feb 2019 (Sat), 9.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. Lesson 3: 27 Feb 2019 (Wed), 6.30 to 10.00 p.m. Lesson 4: 2 March 2019 (Sat), 9.30 a.m. to 1.30 p.m. Church of Singapore (Bukit Timah), 2B Hindhede Rd, S(589240) $150/pax Register at http://www.FatherSchool.org 2. Mother School (English) 6 to 8 March 2019 (Wed to Fri), 2.00 to 7.00 p.m. 9 March 2019 (Sat), 10.00 a.m. to 3.30 p.m. Singapore Christian Canaan Church, 84 St Francis Road, S(328069) $180/pax Register at https://tinyurl.com/SignUpMotherSchool2019
The official monthly publication of The Methodist Church in Singapore. Published material does not necessarily reflect the official view of The Methodist Church. All Scripture quoted is based on the English Standard Version unless otherwise stated.
Design & Production SNAP! Creative Pte Ltd Printer A&D Printhub Pte Ltd
70 Barker Road, #06-04, Singapore 309936 6478-4793 6478-4794 http://message.methodist.org.sg | http://www.methodist.org.sg newmm@methodist.org.sg fb.com/Methodist.SG
Event visual courtesy of Chinese Annual Conference
Editorial Board
Adviser and Publisher
Dr Anthony Goh, Chairperson Council on Communications Editor Sheri Goh Sub-editor Tan Chiu Ai Editorial Executive Jason Woo
@methodist.sg
Have something to say or share? Email us at newmm@methodist.org.sg and, if appropriate, your contribution could be published.
ONE MCS—AC HIGHLIGHTS
PRESIDENTS’ GREETINGS 2019 The Rev Dr Gregory Goh Nat Lai
President of the Chinese Annual Conference “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live your lives in him, rooted and built up in him, strengthened in the faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness.” (Col 2:6–7, NIV) The New Year symbolises the beginning of a new season and hope for us and our families. As we remember the goodness and mercy of God upon our lives, let us strive to grow in Christlikeness by His grace, rooted and built up with His truth, to love God and others with His love, giving thanks to God in all circumstances and being faithful in witnessing to others God’s salvific work on the cross as we walk in this earth as His disciples. Wishing you and your families a blessed New Year!
The Rev James Nagulan
President of Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference The New Year always begins with many hopes and resolutions. We plan to do better than the previous year. Perhaps, it would be wise to consider the words of Paul: “Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.” (Phil 4:8, NIV) I wish you a blessed New Year filled with God’s promises being fulfilled in your lives.
The Rev Dr Gordon Wong
President of Trinity Annual Conference Just before He was crucified and killed, Jesus said to His disciples: “I have said these things to you, that in me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation. But take heart; I have overcome the world.” (John 16:33) My prayer for us, and our families, is that we may know the peace of Christ in the midst of the many different tribulations that 2019 will bring upon us. Or, in the words of the prayer of the apostle Paul: “May the Lord of Peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way.” (2 Thess 3:16, NIV) Amen.
Picture by Solarseven/Bigstock.com METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2019
|3
ETAC 43RD SESSION: 9 TO 10 NOV 2018 Sheri Goh is the Editor of Methodist Message.
TO SERVE, BUT NOT TO BE SERVED
Emmanuel Praise choir and the accompanying musicians.
“Serve, but not be served” was the theme of Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung’s sermons at the opening services of the recent three Annual Conferences of The Methodist Church in Singapore (MCS). Bishop Chong delivered his message first at the Holy Communion service of the Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference (ETAC), a community of eight Tamil-speaking churches. The service, which kicked off the 43rd ETAC session held at Tamil Methodist Church (TMC) at Short Street, was supported by the exuberant Emmanuel Praise choir with accompaniment by both traditional and modern musical instruments. In his sermon, Bishop Dr Chong referred to the question Jesus’ disciples James and John asked Him: if they could “sit at [His] right and the other at [His] left in [His] glory” (Mark 10:35–45, NIV). They were supposed to have left behind, along with their nets, their lucrative careers and even their families, to follow Jesus. But, as Bishop Dr Chong pointed out, all the disciples could see and expect then was Jesus receiving glory, which, to them, meant authority, status, power, wealth and honour. The disciples did not realise their true purpose, which was to serve, just as their Master did. Emphasising the servant leadership that he believes church leaders, both clergy and lay, ought to demonstrate, Bishop
Dr Chong noted that the Book of Discipline describes pastors who have been ordained as elders, as “ministers”. The original meaning of the word “minister” is “someone who serves; a servant”. As ministers of the church, pastors are thus servants of believers. The ultimate standard of servant leadership, said Bishop Dr Chong, was set by our Lord Jesus Christ, who came to serve, not to be served, and to give His life as a ransom for many (Mark 10:45). We in Singapore are blessed to live in a country where it is safe to practise Christianity. While we may not have to give up our life, our service will require some sacrifice, e.g. of time, lifestyle, plans and relationships. The Bishop also paid tribute to the pioneers of ETAC, which was formed 132 years ago. “We want to remember our forefathers, our missionaries, our pastors, who […] laboured and became good examples for us as leaders and ministers, who served the Lord through serving the Church and its people,” he said. The Rev James Nagulan, President of ETAC in the 11th Quadrennium, followed with his President’s Address. Noting that the Annual ETAC Thanksgiving Service had brought together about 300 members and friends from the local churches, he said, “The co-operation and unity
ETAC APPOINTMENTS FOR 2019 Pastoral Appointments Ang Mo Kio Tamil Methodist Church
Jurong Tamil Methodist Church
Pastor-in-charge Rev Philip S Abraham Pastor-in-charge Rev R Prabhu Assistant Pastor Pastor Stephen Shadrak
Pasir Panjang Tamil Methodist Church
Pastor-in-charge Rev R Prabhu
Seletar Tamil Methodist Church & Bedok Preaching Point
Pastor-in-charge Rev C Saravana Kumar
Sembawang Tamil Methodist Church
Pastor-in-charge Rev Albert Vijay Joseph Pastor-in-charge Rev James Nagulan
Tamil Methodist Church, Short Street (From top) Bishop Chong delivers the sermon at the opening service. The Rev James Nagulan chairing ETAC's 43rd session.
of the churches is critical for this annual thanksgiving service to grow and bless our Annual Conference.” Reiterating ETAC’s theme of “Renew, Revive, Reorganise and Rebuild”, one for each year from 2017 to 2020, the Rev Nagulan noted that the 2018 theme of “Revive” underscored the need for revival in ETAC. He highlighted that while ETAC is the only Annual Conference that still has the Methodist Youth Fellowship, it struggles to get the participation of the youths for the programmes which are organised for them. Likewise, ETAC has only six elders and one deacon in active ministry to provide pastoral care to the eight churches. He is, however, thankful that there are those who have retired, such as Bishop Emeritus Robert Solomon and the Rev George Baratham, who continue to serve in the Board of Ministry. The Rev Nagulan said that it is his prayer that more young people will receive the calling to enter the ordained ministry. “The theme for the year ahead is ‘Reorganise’ […]. We […] look forward to God rebuilding
Associate Pastor Rev Anil Kumar Samuel Pastoral Assistant Pastor Jeremy James
Singapore Telugu Methodist Church
Pastor-in-charge Rev Anil Kumar Samuel
Toa Payoh Tamil Methodist Church
Pastor-in-charge Rev Albert Vijay Joseph
Special Appointments District Superintendent
Rev R Prabhu
Ministry at Christalite Home Ministry at Bethany Home Ministry at Yew Tee Home
Rev C Saravana Kumar
Director for Youth Work
Mr Thangaraju Moses
us as a Conference,” said the Rev Nagulan. He was referring, in part, to the MCS Structural Review Task Force, chaired by the Bishop Dr Chong, who shared an update at the session. The goal of the task force, set up to review MCS’s organisational effectiveness and efficiency, is to restructure and streamline the organisation of the Church. The task force appealed for feedback from the Annual Conferences and for volunteers to join working groups to look into the final details. After two days of intense sharing and discussions among ETAC’s clergy and lay leaders, the 43rd Session ended with a Closing and Elder Ordination Service. The Rev C Saravana Kumar, who pastors Seletar Tamil Methodist Church and Bedok Preaching Point as well as participates in the ministries at Christalite, Bethany and Yew Tee Homes, was ordained as Elder. Mr Anton Moses was installed as ETAC Vice President, a role traditionally occupied by a lay leader.
METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2019
|5
ETAC 43RD SESSION: 9 TO 10 NOV 2018 Jason Woo is Methodist Message’s Editorial Executive. When not
CAC 43RD SESSION:
TO GIVE IS TO GAI
(From top) Bishop Emeritus Robert Solomon and Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung. The laying of hands on the Rev C Saravana Kumar, who was ordained as Elder.
The closing service saw Bishop Emeritus Solomon preaching from Ezra 7:1–10. In his sermon entitled “The Hand of the Lord Was Upon Him”, Bishop Emeritus Solomon said that Ezra was divinely called to his ministry and God gave him all he needed to serve. Similarly, to all whom He calls to serve, God will provide knowledge, needful ministry, courage, a community of servants and protection. To illustrate the importance of both clergy and lay leaders in the expansion of God’s Kingdom, Bishop Emeritus Solomon asked: “How many of you were brought to Christ primarily by a pastor? And how many of you were brought to Christ by a lay person?” Seeing that more hands went up in response to the second question, Bishop Emeritus Solomon explained: “The pastor’s role is to train, equip, mobilise, motivate and encourage the lay people. […] We are the salt of the world, and we have got to get out of the four walls of the church, to go wherever God has placed us to do our work for Him.” In short, we—clergy, lay leaders and Christ’s followers—are to serve, and not to be served. n Photos courtesy of Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference
To Give Is To Gain n his President’s Address at the 43rd Session of the Chinese Annual Conference (CAC), the Rev Dr Goh Nai Lat touched on the sacrifices to be made for true discipleship in the Kingdom of God.
I
Crafting his message around the Mandarin phrase, “舍得”, meaning “to give up”, the Rev Dr Goh separated the words “舍” (on its own, the character means “to forsake”) from “得” (“to gain”). This gave a deeper meaning to the phrase of giving up—illustrating the idea that we gain (得) only when we are willing to give up (舍). The Rev Dr Goh then asked if Christians today were ready to forsake what is precious to them, in following Jesus. He challenged us with Jesus’ call to deny ourselves and take up our cross daily (Matt 16:24). “May it be that we will all be found as willing givers,” exhorted the Rev Dr Goh. A push towards central pooling At the 43rd session of the Chinese Annual Conference, which was held at Kum Yan Methodist Church, the Conference also approved the setting-up of central pooling for CAC. This initiative was developed by a Central Pooling Taskforce appointed by the CAC Executive Board in January 2018. The taskforce was led by the CAC Vice President, and included representation from the CAC President, District Superintendents, Lay Leaders, as well as representation from the Board of Finance.
CAC 43RD SESSION: 12 TO 15 NOV 2018 working on the latest articles, he enjoys long jogs and cuddling up with his cats along with a good book.
N
During the session, a ballot was taken among the delegates of the local churches. The motion was passed with 95% support to introduce central pooling with effect from 1 Aug 2019. More significantly, work will also commence to review how CAC can be transformed. (see sidebar for more details) The Methodist Church in Singapore (MCS) Restructuring Taskforce The Conference was also briefed on the deliberations of the MCS Restructuring Taskforce. The petition to restructure MCS was raised in 2016 as the present structure of operating with three separate ACs was seen as cumbersome and inefficient, with much duplication of efforts. The Rev Dr Goh voiced CAC’s concern that even as we consider the streamlining of duplicated ministries, we pay special attention to the continued promotion of non-English ministries and to ensure the importance of preserving the rich heritage of many of CAC’s local dialect services. CAC Board of Laity also resolved to support the MCS Structural Review through consultations and participation in workgroups. Re-election of Vice-President Mr Guan Yeow Kwang was re-elected unanimously as CAC’s VicePresident. He will serve until 2020. Elder and Deacon Ordination The session witnessed the ordination of the Rev Patrick Chen, the Rev Simon Cheo and the Rev Peace Choi as Elders. The Rev Stephanie Oh was ordained as a Deacon. n
Central Pooling to be introduced in 2019 With effect from 1 August 2019, CAC will be introducing Central Pooling, where all CAC HQ and pastoral expenses will be shared by all 17 CAC churches. Sharing will be based on the membership of each church. To provide relief and minimise the financial disruption, a transition period of two-plus-one years and a cap on the cost to be paid by the local church will be set. More details will be released by CAC over the next few months. A CAC Transformation Task Force (CTTF) will be appointed by the end of January 2019. The CTTF will look at developing and implementing strategic initiatives to support the continual growth of CAC’s local churches and position the CAC to effectively expand God’s Kingdom. It will specifically look at the following five major work streams: • church growth and discipleship. • pastoral and lay leadership development. • organisational effectiveness (including admin resourcing & shared services). • school ministry and church kindergarten strategies. • raising the profile of CAC and its churches through CACTogether. Photos courtesy of the Chinese Annual Conference METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2019
|7
CAC 43RD SESSION: 12 TO 15 NOV 2018 CAC APPOINTMENTS FOR 2019 DISTRICT 1
DISTRICT 4
District Superintendent: Rev Philip Lim Kian Long
District Superintendent: Rev Dr Niam Kai Huey
Geylang Chinese Methodist Church
Queenstown Chinese Methodist Church
Pastor-in-charge
Rev Paul Thian Moon Hee
Pastor-in-charge
Rev Lisa Yu Li Hsin
Preacher
Mr Patrick Lim Kok Chu
Associate Pastor
Rev Goh Aik Hiang, Rev Tack Ng Lai Chun
Paya Lebar Chinese Methodist Church
Preacher
Pr Jacqueline Ho Sow Fong, Pr Joshua Ong Chee Xiang
Pastor-in-charge
Rev Dr David Koh Ah Chye
Ang Mo Kio Chinese Methodist Church
Associate Pastor
Rev Daniel Teoh Kean Oon, Rev Boey Kok Yeow, Rev Lui Yuan Tze, Rev Patrick Chen Guek Fah
Pastor-in-charge
Rev Helen Hoe Chiew Ngin
Associate Pastor
Rev Cynthia Choo Bee Lay
Changi Methodist Church / Punggol Preaching Point Pastor-in-charge
Rev Simon Cheo Hsun Shen
Charis Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge
Rev Jasper Sim Shenq Chyi
Associate Pastor
Rev Chan Kok Chuon, Rev Peace Choi Pyong Hwa
Toa Payoh Chinese Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge
Rev Ling Tieng Ngung
Associate Pastor
Rev Koh Chew Hai
Preacher
Pr Glenn Tan Tze Meng Special Appointment by Bishop
Diaconal Minister (Attachment) Rev Dr Andrew Peh Swee Kian Missionaries with MMS
Sengkang Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge
Rev Dr Niam Kai Huey
Associate Pastor
Rev Wilfred Leow Hui Ann
Preacher
Pr Nathanael Goh Jun Chuen, Pr Wang Hai Bin
DISTRICT 2 District Superintendent: Rev Poh Heow Lee
Director of DISCIPLE Agency Rev Dr Niam Kai Huey (Honorary) Associate Director of Christian Ministry in Schools
Rev Lek Yong Teck, Rev Edmund Koh
Methodist School Chaplains
Rev Lek Yong Teck, Rev Ng Beng Keow, Rev Tan-Yeo Lay Suan, Rev Seet Keng Tat, Rev Boey Kok Yeow, Rev Dr David Koh Ah Chye, Rev Yeung Hin Fai, Rev Erick Tan Eng Ghee, Rev Paul Thian, Rev Edmund Koh Lik Hng, Rev Irman Halim, Rev Simon Cheo Hsun Shen, Rev Lui Yuan Tze, Rev Patrick Chen Guek Fah, Rev Cynthia Choo Bee Lay, Rev Peace Choi Pyong Hwa, Rev Dr Ian Jew Yun Shern, Rev Stefanie Oh Wen-ying, Pr Jasper Ngoh Jun Jie, Pr Glenn Tan Tze Meng, Pr Nathanael Goh Jun Chuen, Pr Patrick Lim
Field Board of Ministry – CAC Representative
Rev Paul Thian Moon Hee
Assoc Brigade Chaplain of Girls' Brigade Singapore
Rev Tan-Yeo Lay Suan
Telok Ayer Chinese Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge
Rev Chua Ooi Suah
Associate Pastor
Rev Joshua Tan Sin Kian, Rev Seet Keng Tat
Preacher
Pr Bernard Chng, Pr Lin Ming Zhong
Diaconal Minister (Attachment) Rev Dr Edwin Tay Ed Min Bukit Panjang Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge
Rev Lek Yong Teck
Associate Pastor
Rev Yeung Hin Fai, Rev Ng Beng Keow, Rev Erick Tan Eng Ghee
Grace Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge
Rev Andy Goh Yik Wah
Associate Pastor
Rev Eric Soh Wai Foon, Rev Dr Ian Jew Yun Shern
Holy Covenant Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge
Rev Edmund Koh Lik Hng
Preacher
Pr Florence Ngu Siew Ning
DISTRICT 3 District Superintendent: Rev Goh Aik Hiang Foochow Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge
Rev Poh Heow Lee
Associate Pastor
Rev Anne Lim Ai Lei, Rev Stefanie Oh Wen-Ying
Preacher
Pr Jasper Ngoh Jun Jie
Attachment
Rev Dr Wilfred Ho Wai Tat
Hinghwa Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge
Rev Chin Yan Chong
Associate Pastor
Rev Chu Vee Ping, Rev Peter Soh Kee Lie
Kum Yan Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge
Rev Herman Kan Man Shek
Associate Pastor
Rev Philip Lim Kian Leong
Hakka Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge
Rev Nathanael Chew Eng Pin
Associate Pastor
Rev Irman Halim
Yishun Methodist Mission Pastor-in-charge
Rev Tan-Yeo Lay Suan
Associate Pastor
Rev Lau Chong Yaw
Rev Dr Alex Chng Peng Lian, Rev Cassandra Lee
Special Appointment by President Trinity Theological College Vice Principal
Rev Dr Edwin Tay Ed Min
Lecturers at Trinity Theological College
Rev Dr Wilfred Ho Wai Tat Rev Dr Andrew Peh Swee Kian
Principal, Institute of Elderly
Rev Khoo Cheng Hoot (Honorary)
Chaplains to CAC Students at Rev Dr Wilfred Ho Wai Tat Trinity Theological College Associate: Rev Dr Andrew Peh Swee Kian Sabbatical Leave
1 year: Rev Peter Pan Seng Tai Rev Christopher Louis Kong Chung Dai
Prison Ministry
Rev Chng Siew Sin (Honorary)
Medical Leave
Rev Louis Chai Shung Chee
Soon Hong Kee Scholarship Trust Fund Representative
Mr Han Hai Kwang, Rev Chua Ooi Suah
TRAC 43RD SESSION: 19 TO 22 NOV 2018 Sheri Goh is the Editor of Methodist Message.
LOVE GOD BY LOVING OUR NEIGHBOURS The delegates of the TRAC 43rd session.
“I
am very happy to be a Methodist,” the Rev Dr Gordon Wong declared at the opening of his President’s Address at the 43rd Session of the Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) held at Pentecost Methodist Church in Pasir Ris from 19 to 21 November 2018. “But what is a Methodist?” the Rev Wong continued. He quoted John Wesley, who said: “I preach the plain, old Christianity, renouncing and detesting all other marks of distinction.” The Rev Wong explained that for Wesley, Methodism is but basic Christianity, which is to love others with God’s love. He said, “A Christian cannot become holy by living alone in the desert where there is no one to show love to. We spur each other on to do what is good and holy.” The Rev Wong encouraged TRAC members to be homines unius libri—people of one book. He suggested reading the Bible together, and sharing among churches of the various materials and reading plans that they have developed. He concluded his Address by reminding the delegates to commit to scriptural Christianity. He again quoted Wesley: “All that you teach should contain in it somewhere love towards God and love towards mankind for His sake.” Our preaching and studying of the Word, the Rev Dr Wong said, should make us more loving, kind and forgiving in how we treat others, such as by giving time, money and voice to The Giving Methodist campaign organised by Methodist Welfare Services, or various “Love Your Neighbour” activities during Lent next year.
TRAC President, the Rev Dr Gordon Wong (standing), delivers the Address. Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung (extreme right), who delivered the opening service sermon and oversaw the session proceedings, looks on.
The TRAC President reminded the ministerial and lay delegates from the 21 English-speaking Methodist churches that TRAC’s vision is to be “on TRAC together”, with the emphasis on “together”. In keeping with this, the opening Holy Communion service was a celebration of togetherness and community. Local preachers (lay people licensed by the Board of Ministry to preach) were recognised. So were the retiring pastors—the Rev Melvin Huang and the Rev Michael Tan, who have served as pastors for 36 and 25 years respectively. The next three days of the 43rd Session saw reports from boards and councils, as well as a report from the MCS Structural Review Task Force. Delegates then conferenced in smaller groups, where they discussed concerns that had arisen over the last few days and exchanged ideas for the future.
METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2019
|9
TRAC 43RD SESSION: 19 TO 22 NOV 2018
(Clockwise from top left) Hands are laid on the Rev Adrian Ng as he is ordained as Elder. Henry Tan is installed as Vice President. The Methodist Festival Choir.
The ordination and closing service saw the splendid participation of the Methodist Orchestra and Methodist Festival Choir. Mr Henry Tan was installed as Vice President of TRAC. Pastor Eddie Ho, Pastor Poh Zhi-Hui, Pastor Byron Teo and Pastor Timothy Yong were ordained as Deacons, while the Rev Adrian Ng was ordained as Elder. During the closing service, the Rev Melvin Huang preached on “True Value” based on Matthew 6:21—“For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” He shared two quotes from Mother Teresa: [do] “not great things for God, but small things with great love”; and “God did not call me to be successful; He called me to be faithful.” He urged church leaders to put their hearts in the right place when preaching and serving. Noting that the Sermon on the Mount (Matthew chapters 5–7) can be read at a normal pace in 18 minutes, he advised church leaders to follow Jesus’ example of brevity, and “learn to earn the right to be heard”. He also reminded the congregation not to “have any illusions” about pastors, as they are only human and that pastors and their families “direly need your support and prayers.” The underlying theme of the TRAC 43rd session was that of love—love for God, His Word, our neighbours, and for one another in the local church and wider community. As the Rev Wong said, “Few of us, on our own, can maintain the pursuit of this holy love, but together we can help spread scriptural Christianity throughout the land, so that Methodist Christians can be better known, can be primarily known, as a people who love God by loving their neighbours.” “For the greatest of these is love.” n
DISTRICT 1 District Superintendent: Rev Paul Nga Barker Road Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Dr Chiu Ming Li Pastor Rev Dr Daniel Koh, Rev Wendy Watson, Rev Jeremy Ong Assistant Pastor Rev Benjamin Fong Bedok Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Khoo Kay Huat Pastor Rev David Gwee Assistant Pastor Rev Byron Teo Christalite Methodist Chapel Pastor-in-charge Rev Dr Peter Wong Pastor Rev Dr Daniel Koh, Rev Shaun Chong Christ Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Vincent Goh Assistant Pastor Pastor Benjamin Lau Kampong Kapor Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Kenneth Huang Pastor Rev Gabriel Liew, Rev Tay Kay Leong
DISTRICT 2 District Superintendent: Rev Derrick Lau Ang Mo Kio Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Anthony Lee Pastor Rev Lee Yam Kai Assistant Pastor Pastor Collin See Living Hope Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Ivan Tan Pastor Rev Joshua Loo Methodist Church of the Incarnation Pastor-in-charge Rev Edmund Koh Assistant Pastor Pastor Joey Chen Paya Lebar Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Dr Jonathan Seet Pastor Bishop Emeritus Dr Wee Boon Hup Rev Dr Kow Shih Ming Rev Christopher Chin Rev Wendy Tay Assistant Pastor Pastor Alex Chew Pentecost Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Lai Kai Ming Pastor Rev Jason Phua Assistant Pastor Pastor Jacob Lim Trinity Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Alvin Chan Pastor Rev Paul Nga, Rev Sng Chong Hui Assistant Pastor Rev Timothy Yong
TRAC APPOINTMENTS FOR 2019 DISTRICT 3 District Superintendent: Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun Agape Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Nga Mee Hee Pastor Rev Lim Jen Huat Cairnhill Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev William Sam Pastor Rev Daniel Terence Yeo Assistant Pastor Pastor Allan Lee Fairfield Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Daniel Cornilius Tan Pastor Rev Ling Kin Yew Toa Payoh Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Reuben Ng Pastor Rev Ming Feong Ching Assistant Pastor Rev Poh Zhi-Hui Wesley Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Stanley Chua Pastor Rev Edmund de Souza, Rev Philip Lim, Rev Michael Tan, Rev Lilian Ang, Rev Benjamin Lee, Rev Gladwin Lee, Rev Adrian Ng Assistant Pastor Rev David Ho Seng Hian
DISTRICT 4 District Superintendent: Rev Stanley Chua Aldersgate Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Dr Lynette Sathiasingam Pastor Rev David Ho Gim Pin Covenant Community Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Malcolm Tan Pastor Rev Fred Tan, Rev Ian Lee Faith Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Raymond Fong Pastor Rev John Benedict Foo, Rev Peter Koh, Rev See Swee Fang Assistant Pastor Rev Eddie Ho, Pastor Anthony Phua Holland Village Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Joel Yong Pastor Rev Dr Lorna Khoo, Rev Loretta Lim Living Waters Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge Rev Aaron Tay Pastor Rev Chan Siew Chye
TRAC Special Appointments Director, Truthmin
Rev Ian Lee
Assistant Directors, Youth Ministry
Rev Shaun Chong Rev Gladwin Lee
Director of Young Adults Ministry
Rev Ivan Tan
Director, Lay Equipping and Development Institute (LEAD)
Rev Ming Feong Ching
Assistant Director, Lay Equipping and Development Institute (LEAD)
Rev Ling Kin Yew
Director, Seniors Ministry
Rev Irene Thung
TRAC Crisis Relief Coordinator
Rev Jason Phua
Chaplains to TRAC TTC Students
Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun Rev Wendy Tay
Lecturer, Trinity Theological College
Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun
On Sabbatical Leave
Rev Dianna Khoo
Staff Development Programme
Rev Bernard Chao
Study Leave
Rev Chia Chin Nam Rev Barnabas Chong
No Pay Study Leave
Rev Edwin Wong
Coordinator Peranakan/Indonesian Ministry
Rev Jimmy Wong
Appointments Made Through the Bishop’s Office Director, Ministry in Schools
Rev Aaron Tay
Associate Director, Ministry in Schools
Rev William Sam Rev Anthony Lee
Methodist Missions Society 2019 Executive Director
Rev Derrick Lau
Missionary Pastor (East Asia)
Rev Tan Cheok Kian
Missionary Pastor (Thailand)
Rev Clarence Lee
MMS Area Director, Timor-Leste & Laos
Rev Teresa Wilborn
Training Consultant
Rev Malcolm Tan
Missionary Pastor (Vietnam)
Rev Leslie Lim
Photos courtesy of Trinity Annual Conference
METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2019
| 11
ANG MO KIO METHODIST CHURCH
KINDERGARTEN The Kindergarten is looking for a suitable leader to join us as a Vice Principal. Job Scope and Responsibilities:
Requisites:
•
•
• • • • • • •
Work with the Principal, Kindergarten Management Committee and lead the Kindergarten team towards achieving the Vision, Mission and Core Values Be responsible for daily operations of the Kindergarten Lead and mentor teachers in their planning, development and implementation of the programme, curriculum and pedagogy Establish collaborative partnerships and rapport with parents for the students’ development Ensure an optimal and safe environment appropriate to the holistic development of the students Ensure regulatory compliance Manage the budget and oversee the efficient use of resources Serve as a role model for the Kindergarten staff and students
• • • • •
Diploma in Preschool Education - Leadership (DPE-L)/Advanced Diploma in Early Childhood Leadership (ADECL) Diploma in Preschool Education - Teaching (DPE-T) or other ECDA-recognised diploma in early childhood education ECDA-certified Level 2 Preschool teacher Passionate in working with children Proficient in spoken and written English Preferably minimum 2 years of relevant leadership experience
Interested and suitable applicants may submit your resume with a recent photograph to jaclynnlim@amkmc.org.sg Only shortlisted applicants will be notified.
和散那治丧服务
Hosanna Bereavement Services Your one-stop bereavement and funeral-related services
For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38-39
Hosanna Bereavement Services Pte Ltd
(A Subsidiary of the Methodist Co-operative Society Ltd)
Block 4 Toa Payoh Lorong 8 Industrial Park #01-1333 Singapore 319056 Tel: 6259-4560 Fax: 6259-4095 Email: hosannab@singnet.com.sg Web: www.hosannabereavement.com.sg
24-Hour Helpline:
Contact Ricky Guok @ 6352-7797
SOUNDINGS Dr Roland Chia is Chew Hock Hin Professor of Christian Doctrine at Trinity Theological College and Theological and Research Advisor at the Ethos Institute for Public Christianity (http://ethosinstitute.sg).
AN
ANATOMY HOPE
OF
Every human being, whether Christian or non-believer, harbours such hopes, which some theologians have called “temporal” hopes. But there is another kind of hope, one that does not emanate from our desires and aspirations, but is grounded instead in the God who has revealed Himself as love in Jesus Christ. This is Christian hope, which Pope Benedict XVI has described as the “great hope”. In his encyclical entitled, Saved in Hope (Spe Salvi), the pontiff writes: “We need the greater and lesser hopes that keep us going day by day. But these are not enough without the great hope, which must surpass everything else.”
T
“This great hope,” Benedict continues, “can only be God, who encompasses the whole of reality and who can bestow upon us what we, by ourselves, cannot attain.”
I think it can never be too clichéd to say that hope is an indispensable aspect of human existence. The 20th century theologian Emil Brunner is therefore surely right to observe that “what oxygen is for the lungs, such is hope for the meaning of human life.”
To say that Christian hope centres on God is to emphasise that God alone is its ultimate ground. As Glenn Tinder explains in his insightful and challenging book The Fabric of Hope, for the Christian: “God is not only the object of hope but is also the basis of hope. Not only do we hope for God, we hope in God.”
“Take oxygen away,” Brunner elaborates, “and death occurs through suffocation, take hope away and humanity is constricted through lack of breath; despair supervenes, spelling the paralysis of intellectual and spiritual powers by a feeling of senselessness and purposelessness of existence.”
Christian hope is eschatological: it has to do with our eternal communion with God in the new heavens and the new earth as His redeemed people. We may say that Christian hope points to our journey toward God, and toward the fullness of life that He promised in His Word.
he dawn of a brand new year does different things to different people. To some, it may bring a sense of excitement and anticipation. To others, it may infuse a sense of foreboding, dread and trepidation. But many, I dare say, step into the new year with the hope that what lies ahead will be better, brighter and cheerier than what they’ve left behind.
Hope is inextricably bound to being human because the human being is a seeker of meaning and purpose. Whether consciously or unconsciously, human beings strive to achieve their potential, their telos—and hope is the power that energises this human quest. But what is hope? At one level, we can say that hope has to do with the things that we desire or want but which we do not yet possess. So, we hope that we will get that job or that promotion. We hope we will be able to clinch that important business deal. We hope that the health of the person we love will improve. In this sense hope has to do with our dreams for the future, our aspirations for tomorrow. Hope is the way in which human beings cope with the “not yet”—a future that is ever shrouded in mystery and therefore always remains uncertain and mostly beyond our control.
Soundings is a series of essays that, like the waves of a sonogram, explore issues in society, culture and the church in light of the gospel and Christian understanding.
Unlike temporal hopes that are shaped by the contingencies of earthly life, Christian hope centres on God, whose unchanging faithfulness is portrayed everywhere in Scripture.
For Christians, then, all temporal hopes must be grounded in and defined by this “great hope”. Put differently, all temporal events must be seen in relation to eternity. This includes the failures, disappointments, and sufferings that we encounter in this life. Paul exemplifies this perspective when he writes: “I consider that the sufferings of this present time are not worth comparing with the glory that is to be revealed in us.” (Rom 8:18) When we view our lives through the lens of our “great hope”, we will never despair. For as Tinder puts it, we will understand that “temporal disappointments are never final. There can be no happening so grievous that we cannot, with God’s help, look beyond it and begin again to live with hope.” Because the hope of the Christian is grounded in God, it is truly indefeasible! n
References Brunner, Emil. Eternal Hope. London: Lutterworth Presss, 1954. Pope Benedict XVI. Spe Salvi (“In Hope We Are Saved”). http://w2.vatican. va/content/benedict-xvi/en/encyclicals/documents/hf_ben-xvi_ enc_20071130_spe-salvi.html. Tinder, Glenn. The Fabric of Hope: An Essay. Grand Rapids, MI: Emory Press, 1999.
Picture by siam.pukkato/Bigstock.com METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2019
| 13
INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA PROGRAMME
2019 Admissions Now Open ACS (International) Singapore is a distinctive international secondary school open to all Singaporeans & other nationalities, offering an all-round English-based education for students aged 12 to 18 years leading to the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).
IB Information Sessions
14 & 15 January 2019 11am, 3pm & 4:30pm
16 January 2019 9:45am
61 Jalan Hitam Manis, Singapore 278475
Mr Rob Burrough Principal
Mr Gavin Kinch Vice Principal
Mrs Tan Siew Hoon Vice Principal
Dr Kristopher Achter Vice Principal
For more information Please contact Joseph Ng or Serene Lim at +65 6472 1477 or admission@acsinternational.edu.sg
Building Through Belief, this school of choice provides
• Exceptional examination results, very strong value-added achievement and an all-round holistic education • 50:50 mix of local and international teachers who uphold the dual Methodist ethos and ACS heritage • Small class sizes with overall student-teacher ratio of 8.7 : 1 • 40 different CCAs – 16 Sporting, 12 Visual and Performing Arts, 12 Special Interest Groups • Over 25 overseas trips per year • Over 200 formal student leadership positions • Scholarships for 4 Singaporeans to undertake the IBDP
Achievements include
• Students with perfect score of 45 points • 19 “Top in the World” awards in IGCSE examinations over each of the past eight years • Students accepted to Oxford and Cambridge universities for the past eight years • Admissions to top universities in the UK, the US, Australia and Singapore • PSLE and Singapore GCE ‘O’ Level students achieve outstanding value-added examination results for the IBDP with improved pathways to good universities • Successes at national level this year in Archery, Touch Rugby, Cycling, Swimming, Chinese Drama, Debating, Fencing, Football, Golf, String Orchestra, Taekwondo, Volleyball and Wushu
What the parents say…
“ACS (International) ignites students' passion to learn through building strong relationships with deeply devoted and highly experienced teachers and excellent pedagogic and sporting infrastructure. The school has achieved a fine blend of academic rigour and holistic learning. The emphasis on CCAs and community service as well as the ample opportunities for student leadership makes ACS (International) a 'cut above' and the preferred choice for our children.” Larisa and Shivinder Singh “Sending our daughter to ACS (International) was the best decision we made. She used to be shy and introverted and has now become a confident, caring and motivated student leader.” Debra and Samuel Koh “We deeply appreciate the contribution ACS (International) has made towards making our son confident, capable and thoughtful. The school has provided an environment of personal care, support and encouragement to nurture him into a compassionate young man. We are also very proud of his academic, leadership, co-curricular and public speaking skill development.” Anju Uppal “We like the holistic learning environment of ACS (International). Apart from academics, the school gives the students plenty of learning opportunities outside the walls of the classroom through service trips in continents as far as Africa, school projects and events, CCAs, student leadership roles and more. Our children thoroughly enjoy the IB programme, the holistic environment of the school, and are very proud to be students of ACS (International). The school has helped our children to grow and mature in so many ways, whilst equipping them with the necessary skills needed for their university studies and future endeavours. We are very glad to have sent both of our children to ACS (International).” Steven and Pau Kim Kan
WELFARE SERVICES By the Methodist Welfare Services Communications Team
BRINGING THE WARMTH OF HOME INTO NURSING CARE (From left) MWS Chairperson, the Rev Dr Daniel Koh; Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung of The Methodist Church in Singapore; Minister for Health Mr Gan Kim Yong; Minister for National Development and Member of Parliament for Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC Mr Lawrence Wong and the MWS Group Executive Director Ms Junie Foo at the opening ceremony of the MWS Nursing Home-Yew Tee.
O
n 14 Nov 2018, Methodist Welfare Services (MWS) celebrated the opening of our first nursing home in 18 years—the MWS Nursing Home-Yew Tee. The event was graced by Guest-of-Honour, Minister for Health, Mr Gan Kim Yong; Minister for National Development and Member of Parliament for Marsiling-Yew Tee GRC, Mr Lawrence Wong; as well as MWS Patron, Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung of The Methodist Church in Singapore. At the opening ceremony, MWS Chairperson, the Rev Dr Daniel Koh, painted a vision of hope. “The residents at MWS Nursing Home-Yew Tee live with dignity, independence and autonomy. It is our hope that they will be able to live to the fullest, regardless of the conditions they may face.” The nursing home is designed around a “home away from home” concept to provide a familiar and warm environment for the chronically ill residents. The living spaces exude a homely atmosphere with soft colour tones and cosy furnishings. A wide selection of programmes such as communal dining, outings to coffee shops, pet therapy and pastoral care help the seniors relax and socialise. We also supplement medical and nursing care with psychosocial support, and individualised therapy for dementia patients. Show You Care: Join The Giving Methodist 2019 While facilities can be built and formal programmes designed, the caring touch requires much more support from the wider community. Jesus taught that the second greatest commandment is to “Love your neighbour as yourself.” Have you considered how you can get meaningfully involved to fulfil this command? Back for a second year, The Giving Methodist (TGM) campaign will run during Lent from 6 March to 13 April 2019. More than 200 volunteering and outreach
opportunities in befriending, running programmes and activities, and distributing food to the poor and in-need will be made available through MWS’s 19 centres and participating Methodist churches. Be it trying something new or leveraging on skills and experience, volunteers have shared how they have been blessed by their volunteer experience. Chew Wei Ting, a volunteer who gave four years to MWS Girls’ Residence, said, “I am truly grateful for the journey and have been rewarded with stronger interpersonal skills for myself.” We invite all Methodists and friends who love Jesus and want to honour Him during the season of Lent, to be part of TGM by giving your time, voice or a donation to the poor, vulnerable and disadvantaged. May the Methodist spirit of social holiness arise! n
Give Time for TGM Outreach and be a blessing to people in need. • Go for outings • Help improve living • Befriend isolated elderly, spaces low income families, • Share your skills and the frail and sick. expertise • Exercise together • Engage in creative activities • Reminiscence therapy (with the elderly or • And more… Scan the QR those with dementia) code to find out more Learn more or sign up individually, or as a group with your family, friends, cell group, or church groups. https://thegivingmethodist.sg/ t gm@mws.sg Photo courtesy of the Methodist Welfare Services METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2019
| 15
14
METHODIST MESSAGE, JULY 2013
MISSIONS Noel Tam is the MMS Home Director and the MMS Area Director for Nepal. He worships at Pentecost Methodist Church.
A MISSIONS JOURNEY OF LOVE
The Rev Philip Lim (left photo, front row, second from left; right photo, fourth from left) has touched the lives of many in his missions journey with MMS.
T
he Rev Philip Lim was posted to Cambodia in 2004 as a missionary with The Methodist Missions Society (MMS). Little did he know where it would take him. A people person, he loved his ministry and the people he served. During his seven years in Cambodia, the Rev Lim built important relationships with MMS missionaries and the national pastors and leaders based on trust, understanding and, most of all, his love for them. He deserves much credit for starting and growing MMS’s missional ministry in its early days in Cambodia. He provided leadership in the growth of the church as well as in the community development programmes such the Methodist School of Cambodia and Community Outreach Services Immanuel. Following his fruitful years in Cambodia, the Rev Lim returned to MMS Home Office to serve as Area Director for Cambodia before becoming MMS’s Executive Director in 2012. Besides his routine responsibilities as the Executive Director, he initiated the reorganisation and strategic development of MMS. He has been instrumental in laying the foundation for leadership renewal, both in the Home Office as well as our mission fields. After another seven years, he will return to pastoral ministry with the Chinese Annual Conference (CAC) from 1 Jan 2019. In an interview with MMS Harvest Force, the Rev Lim shared that he would gladly do it all over again. He recounted his greatest takeaway from his labour of
love with MMS: “On a recent visit to Nepal, I had the opportunity to hear stories first-hand from our national pastors. It is hard for us to imagine all the trouble they go through just to conduct their pastoral duties. A certain pastor had to climb mountains, trek through ravines and wade across fast-flowing rivers just to visit his members and pray for them. Yet he did not utter a single complaint as he considered it a privilege to serve. I am inspired by his dedication and service.” Reflecting on how he might have done things differently, the Rev Lim said: “If I could do it all over again, I would like to spend more time with our people. You see, we have many young missionaries who have just started their ministry. I would have liked to have spent more time with them and to journey with them, so that they will succeed in their ministry. Also, we have national workers in the field who have risen to be key leaders over the years. Many are young and wish to have a place or person to turn to for guidance or simply to process their thoughts.” MMS Field Director and a long-serving member of MMS, Col (Ret) Quek Koh Eng, described the Rev Lim as “a God-fearing man with a heart for the missionaries, national workers and staff—with his quiet nature, he is patient, open and willing to listen to others’ views. He is a very humble and simple man, willing to accept hardships and persevere in his calling to serve.” Our prayers and best wishes go with the Rev Philip Lim as he embarks on his new journey within the pastoral ministry and as a CAC District Superintendent. n Photos courtesy of The Methodist Missions Society METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2019
| 17
HOME
DISCIPLE FACILITATORS’ TRAINING We do not study God’s Word just for the sake of gaining knowledge. We study it so that we can apply the Word of God in and to our lives. The Word of God is active and alive. It should stir and convict us. Thus, the ultimate aim of DISCIPLE is for God’s Word to impact and transform lives. As you will be trained to be a learner among learners as a DISCIPLE facilitator, you can also expect to: • be biblically nourished • get to know God much better through the Bible—this is guaranteed! • learn about yourself and where your strengths lie, in order to serve God better
Courses are conducted in either English or Mandarin. Interested persons can select the language that they are most comfortable with:
English DISCIPLE Leaders’ Training 2019 21 and 22 Feb, 9.00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 496 Upper Bukit Timah Road John Wesley Centre #04-20 Singapore 678099
Mandarin DISCIPLE Leaders’ Training 2019 19 and 20 Feb, 9.00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. 496 Upper Bukit Timah Road John Wesley Centre #04-20 Singapore 678099
Important Notes: DISCIPLE: Becoming Disciples Through Bible Study (BDTBS) also known as D1 or DISCIPLE Red is a prerequisite for DISCIPLE: Into the Word Into the World (IWIW), DISCIPLE: Remember Who You Are (RWYR), and DISCIPLE: Under the Tree Of Life (UTOL). You are required to complete the DISCIPLE course first in a local church before attending the facilitators’ training (unless you are a pastor or lay ministry staff who have undergone theological studies). Registration closing date: 8 Feb 2019. A $50 non-refundable deposit is required upon registration. Please make your cheque payable to THE METHODIST CHURCH IN SINGAPORE. Register at http://disciple.methodist.org.sg
disciple@methodist.org.sg
6765-5301
Registration at our Columbarium Office (Level 5) Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm (Closed on Public Holidays). Tel: 6479 8122 HP: 9670 9935 or Fax: 6479 6960 Email: veronicalowjmc@yahoo.com.sg
NEWS Dr Anthony Goh is Chairperson of the Council on Communications, and a member of Bedok Methodist Church. He and his wife, Hui Ling, conduct Marriage Enrichment and Preparation Courses, and enjoy ballroom dancing.
THE ORDER OF SAINT LUKE HAS A SILENT RETREAT T
he Order of Saint Luke (OSL) is a dispersed ecumenical religious order founded by Methodists. Its focus is on sacramental and liturgical practice and study, and spiritual formation. The Singapore Association of OSL, comprising both clergy and lay members, organises meetings to further deepen our understanding of the sacraments and liturgy. We also endeavour to pray the “Daily Office”, which is a regular rhythm of prayer and Scripture that is common to the worldwide Church. The “Daily Office” is evolved form of synchronised prayer that links all Christians into a chain of continuous prayer and praise. Founded in 1946 in the United States, OSL invites and accepts Christian brothers and sisters at all stations. Membership is by affirmation of vows, and seekers may wish to seek spiritual guidance on their vocation through a companion. Alternatively, one may choose to start off as a Friend of the Order. The highlight of 2018 for Singapore was a silent retreat entitled “The Discipline of Silence”. It was held on 18 Oct, the Feast Day of Saint Luke, at the San Damiano Spirituality Centre at the Church of St Mary of the Angels in Bukit Batok. Sixteen people, members of OSL and guests, from Methodist, Anglican and Baptist churches attended the retreat, with the Rev Vincent Goh as the Spiritual Director. So often, we scurry about and, in the cacophony of each day, fail to set aside time to quieten our soul to hear the Holy Spirit. The retreat was a time of disciplining ourselves to quieten our hearts to listen to God’s still, small voice. The venue centre provided many quiet and private spots for
individuals to remove themselves from the world and seek to see, hear and feel God. After a day of tuning out the world to tune in to God, the retreat ended with a time of sharing and celebrating the Holy Communion. Retreatants shared about how it was difficult to focus at the beginning, how the serene surroundings reminded them of God’s presence in His creation, and how God sometimes shouts through the silence of solitude. We agreed that intentionally setting time aside for a retreat was beneficial for our spiritual formation. n
As the Singapore Association grows, we hope to interest more Christians in sacramental and evangelical revival. http://saint-luke.net/ a nthony@mensa.org.sg (Br Anthony)
Photos courtesy of the Rev Egmedio B Equila Jr METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2019
| 19
HYMNS & SONGS Judith Laoyan-Mosomos is the Director for Worship and Church Music at the Methodist School of Music, and a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church.
WE THREE KINGS OF THE ORIENT ARE
We Three Kings of Orient Are (UMH #254) We three kings of Orient are; bearing gifts we traverse afar, field and fountain, moor and mountain, following yonder star. Refrain: O star of wonder, star of light,
T
he 12 days of Christmas end on 6 Jan, the feast of Epiphany. Epiphany comes from a Greek word meaning “manifestation or appearance”, and is associated with the visit of the Magi to Jesus in the manger when they presented Him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. We Three Kings tells the story of the Magi’s journey and visit. Its author, John Henry Hopkins Jr., envisioned the story to be narrated by the “kings” and provided directions in an earlier edition: All three kings are to sing stanza one together; stanzas two, three and four individually; and together again for the final stanza. The congregation would sing the refrain.1 What exactly does this carol manifest? Each king had a name: King Gaspar presented gold, Melchior frankincense, and Balthazar myrrh. In his book, Calendar: Christ’s Time for the Church, Stookey explains the symbolism of these gifts. Gold was owned by monarchs and was their prerogative. In many ancient cultures, incense was used to
star with royal beauty bright, westward leading, still proceeding,
indicate the presence of a deity. Myrrh was used as a painkiller (Mark 15:23), an embalming substance (John 19:39), a fragrance (Ps 45:8), and a beauty treatment (Est 2:12) as well as added to oil used for anointing priests (Exod 30:23).2
guide us to thy perfect light. Born a King on Bethlehem's plain, gold I bring to crown him again, King forever, ceasing never, over us all to reign. [Refrain] Frankincense to offer have I;
The three gifts indicated that the baby receiving the gifts was no ordinary child. They were a clear manifestation of the Magi’s homage to the baby Messiah, the long-awaited Saviour of the world.
incense owns a Deity nigh; prayer and praising, voices raising, worshiping God on high. [Refrain] Myrrh is mine; its bitter perfume breathes a life of gathering gloom;
In their search for the Messiah, the Magi took a leap of faith. They journeyed, and with confidence followed a star until it brought them to the baby Jesus.
sorrowing, sighing, bleeding, dying, sealed in the stone-cold tomb. [Refrain] Glorious now behold him arise; King and God and sacrifice:
Epiphany invites us to go to Christ. With the same faith that the Magi put on that star of light, let us place our trust in Jesus Christ, the one and perfect light. As we go about our daily lives, the journey may be rough, but with Christ, we can be confident that all will be well. Altogether we may sing: Glorious now behold him arise; King and God and sacrifice: Alleluia, Alleluia, sounds through the earth and skies. n
Alleluia, Alleluia, sounds through the earth and skies. [Refrain]
Words and Music: KINGS OF THE ORIENT (John H. Hopkins, Jr. 1820-1891)
Raymond F. Glover, ed. The Hymnal 1982 Companion (New York, NY: The Church Hymnal Corporation), 128. 2 Carlton R. Young, Companion to the United Methodist Hymnal (Nashville, TN: Abingdon Press, 1993), 113. 1
Picture by IndianSummer/Bigstock.com METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2019
| 21
POEMS Dr Oliver Seet is a member of Wesley Methodist Church and a Board Director of the Metropolitan YMCA.
STILLING THE STORM In the fiefdoms of water the minions of oceans, rivers, lakes and wells await the behests Of the overlords of weather and of change. There are fearsome waters that can tower over a shore and ravage a land; there are waters that bring life to thirsting soil; there are waters that can be harnessed on the atlas shoulders of a dam and there are waters that bring tranquility and joy.
Once, on the Sea of Galilee, the master of the elemental overlords of water —Jesus my Lord walked on the sea amid a ship-wrecking storm and stilled it with a word into a splutter, heading for the vessel where his disciples sat huddled together, to assuage their fear and to let them see that for Him there were pathways through troubled waters and that he could calm malevolent storms threatening to snuff them out.
Jesus still walks today through the baleful storms and waters of life, bringing saving grace to all who call on him. Matt 14:22–33, Mark 6:47–53, John 6:16–21
Picture by ongap/Bigstock.com
LOOKING AHEAD A COURSE ON CULTURAL ANTHROPOLOGY
9 , 16, 23, 30 Jan / 13, 20, 27 Feb (Wednesday evenings, NO class on 6 Feb), 7.30 p.m. to 9.00 p.m. Scan here to see events online! St Andrew’s Cathedral, 11 St Andrew’s Road, S(178959) at South Transept Hall, Level 1, Main Sanctuary https://ttc.edu.sg/equip-registration/ info@ttc.edu.sg 6767-6677 $120 ($100 for returning students, if the last CDCM course is within one year). Free for TTC alumni and TTC students—online registration required.
Cultural anthropology is the study of people and their cultures. This is an introductory course that presents some basic concepts of cultural anthropology (which includes an understanding of human behaviour and beliefs, kinship systems, world view, social organisations, economic and political systems) with special attention to the application of an anthropological perspective for Christian mission.
jan
9
Organised by EQUIP (formerly CDCM, the Centre for the Development of Christian Ministry), Trinity Theological College.
CRISIS RELIEF TRAINING
12 Jan (Sat), 9.00 a.m. to 5.00 p.m. Wesley Methodist Church L2 Hall, 5 Fort Canning Road, S(179493) https://tinyurl.com/jan2019crt crw@wesleymc.org 6387-9243 Admission is free. (Two tea-breaks provided, lunch on your own.) Only 50 slots available. Please register by 8 Jan.
Singapore has thus far remain untouched by the recent spate of natural and man-made disasters that have occurred in the region. We, in turn, as Christians can learn to bless our neighbours in their time of need with the skills and knowledge needed for Crisis Relief Work as well as prepare ourselves to be able to respond to any disaster effectively under a church-based Crisis Relief Ministry.
jan
12
Organised by Wesley Methodist Church.
TRAC SENIORS MINISTRY WORSHIP SERVICES
16 Jan, 13 Feb, 13 Mar, 17 Apr, 15 May (Wednesdays), 2.30 p.m. to 4.00 p.m. Faith Methodist Church L4 Worship Hall, 400 Commonwealth Dr, S(149604) 6478-4754 (Priscilla)
TRAC Seniors Ministry welcomes you to their monthly Seniors Ministry Worship Services. Join us for a time of worship, fellowship and food, and catch up with other seniors and retirees from various TRAC churches.
jan
16
Organised by Trinity Annual Conference.
MARKETPLACE MINISTRY SEMINAR
19 Jan (Sat), 8.30 a.m. to 4.30 p.m. Wesley Methodist Church, 5 Fort Canning Road, S(179493) bit.ly/bgstseminar registration@bgst.edu.sg 6227-6815 $70* as an independent seminar or for audit/$200 to take for credit as IMT course
The seminar aims to help participants inhabit a biblical-theological vision for life in the marketplace. It will locate an understanding of ministry in the marketplace within the wider context of God’s mission, and the mission and ministry of the Church in the world. Attendees can expect to discover that business and human enterprise is not only a platform for expanding the Kingdom of God but is part of that kingdom coming, develop a theological foundation for Christian service in the marketplace, get equipped for present or future ministry in the marketplace and be empowered for the transformational nature of work and its significant part in the Church’s mission in the world today. Organised by Biblical Graduate School of Theology in partnership with Institute of Marketplace Transformation (IMT017).
jan
*Host church discount (50%) applies. Contact organiser for more details.
19
METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2019
| 23
YOU & YOUR FAMILY Benny Bong has been a family and marital therapist for more than 30 years, and is a certified work-life consultant. He was the first recipient of the AWARE Hero Award, received in 2011, and is a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church.
CONTRADICTIONS OR TRUTHS
“B
ut I am happy,” he insisted defiantly, his rigid posture and furrowed eyebrows betraying tension. Upon revealing his belief that his wife of almost 20 years did not love him or perhaps had never loved him at all, Peter asserted he was still “happy”. Often, we think of happiness as an emotional state that brings smiles to our faces. Having counselled many clients over more than 30 years, I have learnt much from individuals like Peter. In this instance, it is that happiness can be bittersweet. There is the bitterness of not being loved in the way that one wants. To conclude that one’s spouse might have been drawn by the comfort and security that the marriage offered. Or that one’s marriage exists only because divorce is unacceptable—whether for the children’s sakes or out of commitment to marital vows. The sweetness of Peter’s realisation was in the fact that for many years, he had felt that something was wrong but could not put a finger on it. He assumed that the fault lay with him. That perhaps he had been too wrapped up with work and pursuing his goals. That his wife and he were too dissimilar and therefore incompatible. Consequently, he had strayed into an extramarital relationship, which had led to another round of self-recrimination.
Over the two years I worked with Peter, he ended his affair, became more attentive to his family’s needs and turned back to God. Through his working hard and consistently at it, his clinical depression lifted. Two years of stability followed and then a family tragedy forced him to be more reflective. It was this period of deep thinking that led to his moment of epiphany. Yet even in this state of clarity, he was unsure of how to proceed. I offered him a thought. I likened his commitment to staying the course and faithfully carrying out his marital vows as taking on the yoke of marriage. And in so doing in obedience to his faith, that he considers how such a “yoke” can be easy and its burden light. I cautioned him against carrying the yoke of his marriage as an act of burdensome sacrifice on his part. Our Lord, I added, takes no pleasure in subjecting us to such servitude. Instead, when we bring our lives in alignment with His will, we experience great joy in obedience. The walk of faith presents many contradictions. Bittersweet realisations, burdens that are light, and joy in obedience. Many of these contradictions become clearer in the light of His truth. n Picture by tuaindeedz/Bigstock.com