Presidents' Greetings

Rev Philip Abraham

President, Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference

Rev Dr Gregory Goh Nai Lat

President, Chinese Annual Conference

Rev Stanley Chua

President, Trinity Annual Conference

New Year Greetings! We thank God for a brand new year.

'My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.'

(Exodus 33:14 NIV)

The above promise of God reminds us that God's presence is with us. This also assures us with the awareness of his activity in our lives and that he is constantly at work within us. We will begin to trust him more and understand that he has it all under control, and that he is with us guiding our every step. We can journey the whole year with hope and trust in him alone and find rest in his green pastures.

Wishing you and your family a blessed 2023! We are still living in uncertain times. Just when we thought the Covid-19 pandemic had done the worst to us, we are faced with international events that have badly affected many countries. The International Monetary Fund has forecasted that many economies are poised to contract and the outlook remains uncertain for 2023. It is times like these that we are reminded again that our ultimate hope is not found in this world but in God. We trust and wait expectantly for God to usher forth the promised King and his kingdom. The people of God can rejoice not only in the promised future glory, but even in present trials and sufferings because they can produce in us a deep trust and faith in God.

May I encourage all of us as we journey through this new year to cling to this promise from Isaiah 43:1

Uncertainties and challenges may have marked the year that has passed. Yet, the people of God have continued to rise to the occasion, not with despair or fear, but with God's truth, love and strength. Our Lord promises that he is with us and that he reigns over all situations. The peace of Christ—which transcends all understanding—shall guard our hearts and minds as we pray unceasingly and give thanks in all circumstances.

As we enter this new year, may we continue to walk in obedience to fulfil the Great Commission, loving God and our neighbours. May you be empowered by the Holy Spirit to run with great hope and courage, with your eyes fixed on our Lord Jesus Christ, the Author and Perfecter of our faith.

"But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint."

(Isaiah 40:31 NIV)

Wishing everyone a blessed new year! (NIV), "… Do not fear, for I have redeemed you; I have summoned you by name; you are mine."

To God be the glory!