ISSUE
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A YOUTH MAGAZINE
MICA (P) 122/07/2012
YEAR OF THE LORD’S FAVOUR
YEAR OF ACCELERATION
Psalm 65:11
Romans 8:14
2005
2006
YEAR OF NEW BEGINNINGS
YEAR OF MANIFESTED BLESSINGS
Isaiah 43:18-19
Deuteronomy 28:1-13
2007
2008
THE ACCEPTABLE YEAR OF THE LORD
YEAR OF RESTFUL INCREASE
Luke 4:18-19
Matthew 11:28
2009
2010
YEAR OF CROWNED GOODNESS
YEAR OF UNCEASING FRUITFULNESS
Psalm 65:11
Jeremiah 17:7-8
2011
2012
THE YEAR OF THE KEY OF DAVID Isaiah 22:22 2013
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e know you’ve heard it before, but we’ll say going to be an awesome year! It is the year o David. This is the year of open doors – the Lord will open f man can shut. (Isaiah 22:22, Rev 3:7) But let’s not forget th year that the Lord will also shut doors that are not good fo not only wants to provide for you, He also wants to protec is to see our Heavenly Father’s heart of love for us!
As we focus on the two keys of David – prayer and pr at The Zone Magazine also get in on the action. Check out musical groups, our memory verse cards dedicated to the b our very first Unlimited Praise service of the year at The Sta things literally and conduct an experiment on leaving our ro home for 22 days. Suffice to say, we couldn’t help but smile
This year will surely be filled with moments where we hand of the Lord, especially in our daily comings and going the different seasons we are at in life. And while the theme us something to focus on, Daddy God is not however, limit current theme! Each year builds upon the themes of the ye Needless to say, each year gets better than the year befor God is a God of increase! Even as we recount the faithfuln years past, we can also confidently expect that He will do e abundantly much more as we step into a greater realm of u goodness this year! #02
y it again: 2013 is of The Key Of for us doors that no hat this is also the or us. Daddy God ct you. How great it
raise – this year, we stories on informal book of Psalms and ar! We even take oom door open at e at the results.
e recognise the gs, regardless of e of each year gives ted by just the ears before. re, because our ness of the Lord in exceedingly, unprecedented
[CONTENTS]
[CREDITS]
#04:
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER:
FOOD OF CHAMPIONS
A visual feast of the physical and spiritual diets of eight youths
#08:
CREATIVE VISION
We find out what drives Spark Collective as they set the stage for us to experience Jesus at each and every service
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FRIENDLY MELODIES
We stumble upon two groups of youths in The Zone for whom music is the thread that binds
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2013: THE YEAR OF THE KEY OF DAVID A year of divine open and shut doors through the two keys of prayer and praise
#22:
PRAISE REPORTS
Testimonies of God’s faithfulness in our lives
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OPEN DOOR POLICY
One of our own at The Zone Magazine
experiments with leaving the door to her room open for 22 days
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ABROAD BUT NOT ALONE
We ask one of our own about finding a local church to attend while studying overseas
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FOR THE LOVE OF PAPER
We peek into the notebooks of six youths and
JOSCELIN PURCELL EDITOR:
RACHEL LEONG ART DIRECTOR:
ELIZABETH LEE WRITERS:
ANDREA TAN CLIONA YONG DARREN LIM JUSTIN LIM LEE JIANWEI LEE WEIYI SARAH KOH SHANA SIOW SIM WEIXUAN TRANSCRIBERS:
CHERLYN TUNG HO KIAN CHONG JIRALDA WEE MEYYAPPAN SOMASUNDARAM WILSON CHIA DESIGNERS:
CHARISSA KOW JEANNIE TAN NG SHI TING PRISCILLA TAN RACHEL YIN SARA HO TAMI LAI YANG YAN PHOTOGRAPHERS:
CHERYL TAN CHRISTOPHER CHANG JAYDEN CHIANG JUSTIN LAU
rekindle our love affair with the written word
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SHARING THE LOVE
The DARE parent-child mission trip to Chiang Mai and the blessings it brought
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TURKEY: IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF GRACE The DARE Level 4 graduating class of 2012 share their travel tales
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POWER OF PRAISE
Our very first Unlimited Praise service of the year at The Star Performing Arts Centre!
[COPYRIGHT STATEMENT] THIS IS A PUBLICATION OF NEW CREATION CHURCH IN SINGAPORE, A NON-PROFIT ORGANISATION. THE PUBLICATION IS DISTRIBUTED FREE TO ITS MEMBERS AND HAS NO SUBSCRIPTION OR NEWSSTAND PRICE. COPYRIGHT © NEW CREATION CHURCH, SINGAPORE, 2013. NO PART OF THIS PUBLICATION MAY BE REPRODUCED IN WHOLE OR PART WITHOUT PRIOR WRITTEN PERMISSION. UNLESS STATED OTHERWISE, ALL SCRIPTURE QUOTATIONS ARE TAKEN FROM THE NEW KING JAMES VERSION®. COPYRIGHT © THOMAS NELSON, INC., 1982. USED BY PERMISSION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
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FOOD FOR CHAMPIONS WE TAKE A PEEK AT THE PHYSICAL AND SPIRITUAL DIETS OF SEVEN YOUTHS IN THE ZONE.
SARA HO WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WAY TO SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD?
Journaling, playing the guitar, during my long commute to school, while doing the laundry. WHAT TIME OF DAY DO YOU HAVE YOUR QUIET TIME?
In the morning.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MUSIC TO TUNE IN TO DURING YOUR QUIET TIME?
Its quiet during my quiet time.
BEST SNACK TO HAVE WHILE HAVING QUIET TIME?
Hot milo and plain crackers.
JONATHAN WAN WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WAY TO SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD?
Worshipping Him with the only 8 chords I know how to play on the guitar. I hope God likes repetition. I love to pray in tongues and then break out into spontaneous prayer, praying for everything that comes into my head — from world peace to tomorrow’s breakfast. WHAT TIME OF DAY DO YOU HAVE YOUR QUIET TIME?
At night, usually after 9pm when it’s dark enough because His light shines brightest in the darkness, and conveniently it’s also when I get to finally settle down from a long day and unwind.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MUSIC TO TUNE IN TO DURING YOUR QUIET TIME?
K-Pop. I kid. Mostly Christian music like Hillsong and Hillsong United... and... Hillsong. Not because I believe it has to be Christian music during quiet time, but it’s rather hard to focus when listening to secular songs about never ever getting back together with your ex. Sometimes I do listen to motion picture soundtracks like The Dark Knight, Lord of the Rings, The Last Samurai whenever I crave a little epic-ness in my quiet time. BEST SNACK TO HAVE WHILE HAVING QUIET TIME?
Anything that’s within reach... although I personally love Japanese snacks.
HEATHER CHUA WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WAY TO SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD?
It varies. Recently I’ve been picking my favourite verses from the daily devotionals and looking up the Japanese translation (I’ve been studying the language out of personal interest). Hence, when I’m early for work, or if there’s a free weekend to spare, I like to visit cafés, order a cuppa and write the verses in a notebook while simultaneously meditating on it. WHAT TIME OF DAY DO YOU HAVE YOUR QUIET TIME?
Quiet time usually takes place at night, when it’s really quiet and I’m not in a hurry to be anywhere else. Otherwise, it would be in a café over a weekend without errands or appointments.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MUSIC TO TUNE IN TO DURING YOUR QUIET TIME?
I don’t have a fixed playlist for Quiet time; my choices and music preferences are very diverse. But recently, I’ve had Hillsong United’s Zion album and Pastor Darlene Zschech’s Victor’s Crown on permanent repeat for over a week now. BEST SNACK TO HAVE WHILE HAVING QUIET TIME?
Quiet time is typically accompanied with coffee and either finger food or juice. At night, I substitute coffee with tea.
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JOAN GAN WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WAY TO SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD?
I can’t decide between these two but it’s definitely either having a quiet morning at my balcony or having a good quiet afternoon cuppa at a nice café with Jesus. WHAT TIME OF DAY DO YOU HAVE YOUR QUIET TIME?
Usually on the way to school which is about 730am. If not, it’ll be around teatime.
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MUSIC TO TUNE IN TO DURING YOUR QUIET TIME?
It depends on my mood really. When I need something more upbeat it’ll be Light Will Shine by Hillsong United. Other times I’ll usually play either Until The End by New Creation Church or Beneath the Waters by Hillsong United. BEST SNACK TO HAVE WHILE HAVING QUIET TIME?
A yummy hot drink that makes your heart fuzzy and warm, like Jesus’ love.
BRODERICK ELISHA SIM WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WAY TO SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD?
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MUSIC TO TUNE IN TO DURING YOUR QUIET TIME?
I enjoy reading the Bible, looking it up in its original language (Hebrew or Greek) and devouring the richness of it.
Recently it’s been the Jesus Is ______. Music Project by The City Church but timeless classics includes Still Waters or A Touch of His Presence by Pastor Prince.
Usually in the late afternoon or after midnight.
Coffee, specifically a small sized Jamaica Blue Signature™ Blend latte served in a ceramic mug, or instant ramen late at night.
WHAT TIME OF DAY DO YOU HAVE YOUR QUIET TIME?
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BEST SNACK TO HAVE WHILE HAVING QUIET TIME?
JODIE KOH WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WAY TO SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD?
Going on a date alone with Him to a cozy café or a quiet place near school/ home and just being conscious of His presence. WHAT TIME OF DAY DO YOU HAVE YOUR QUIET TIME?
Whenever I can!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MUSIC TO TUNE IN TO DURING YOUR QUIET TIME?
Songs from the Still Waters album by our church
BEST SNACK TO HAVE WHILE HAVING QUIET TIME?
Strawberries and cereal!
SAM HO WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE WAY TO SPEND TIME WITH THE LORD?
Random bus rides or songwriting in my crib.
WHAT TIME OF DAY DO YOU HAVE YOUR QUIET TIME?
Morning before school!
WHAT IS YOUR FAVOURITE MUSIC TO TUNE IN TO DURING YOUR QUIET TIME?
It varies with different seasons but there are two songs currently; it’s Love Came Down by Kari Jobe and Oceans by Hillsong United (never fails to make me weep). BEST SNACK TO HAVE WHILE HAVING QUIET TIME?
Almonds/ oat biscuits and hot milo please!
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Creative - --V I S I O N - - -
WE FIND OUT WHAT DRIVES SPARK COLLECTIVE AS THEY SET THE STAGE FOR US TO EXPERIENCE THE LORD AT EACH AND EVERY SERVICE.
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t’s 10am and Pauline Chung sits, producer’s clipboard in hand, ready to brief the other service operations leaders on the creative direction of the day’s service. “We will be having a photobooth concept in the foyer,” says Pauline, only to be updated that there would be a prayer meeting before service so the booth may be by-passed as people proceed straight for service. “Okay, I understand,” she says, taking the news in her stride.
A quick run-down on the pre-service with the Operations IC and she proceeds to the foyer where Jeremy, her assistant producer, introduces her to a radically new way of mounting their floodlights for the booth. Proceeding to the Shine auditorium’s projection room, she checks that the announcement slides were updated and returns to evaluate the light designer’s programming of the stage lights for worship. Preparing of the emcees was next: “How are you going to start the pre-service…”
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WHO IS
Spark collective?
Surprised that the Spark’s Collective is not just about “making arts and craft”? According to Joanne Lim, the department head, Spark Collective provides not just muscle, but also creative direction with the other Spark departments (for example Spark Film, Spark Unplugged, etc.) in producing items like pre-service games, videos, and even right down to the closing performances. Every element is knitted purposefully, and is geared towards supporting the message preached at each service. Additionally, producers take on shepherding roles, guiding and teaching the servers at the end of every service. “For me, I grew alot serving in this ministry because I always had leaders who were willing to impart and teach
me, giving me the confidence to make mistakes,” recounts Joanne of her early days serving as an emcee. And it is this similar environment of grace that defines Spark Collective, even as servers are trained in practical ways as well.
Previously engaged as stagehands or prop makers, servers in the department take on larger roles now as production assistants. “We get to work with new people and dabble in new areas of service. Recently, after a reshuffle in the department, some of us get to be involved in engineering the lighting experience, music and ambience. It’s a completely different level of creativity now,” explains Min Hwe, one of the servers.
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The Heart BEHIND THE HANDS
When asked about the heart behind Spark Collective, Joanne describes, “I liken ourselves as the ones preparing the good soil (Matthew 13:22). It could be in the decor in the foyer, getting people to be excited about the service. Recently we hung keys with verses for people to take home. That to me, was a refreshing way to remind us of the theme of the year. Also, when we run a funny service, and you come in upset about your week, there is nothing like laughter to take that away. It is really about the people we are serving — how we can love them and let them see God’s heart in the things that we do.” Producing a fun atmosphere though, is not without challenges. Unbeknownst to the congregation, there have been times when pre-service activities were never executed at the last minute due to time constraints. But it’s all in a day’s work to take changes in their stride and adapt quickly. In a creative ministry, it is sometimes painful to see a project shelved. After all, creative work is often very personal as well. Min Hwe says, “When we come up
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with a series of games for youth camps, we do not really know whether they will actually be used. We have to be secure and know that it is not about us and what we have done. If we get possessive over the time spent in producing something, we get riled up when they get cancelled. Ultimately it is for the Lord and only He knows what is best for His people. It is something that we have to learn to hold with a loose hand. At the end of the process you realise that everything that works out on stage is never really due to your effort but due to His grace.” However, despite the huge amount of labour that goes into productions, coupled with time constraints and potential cancellations, the atmosphere is quite ‘chill’. In fact, it’s so ‘chill’ that when someone announces a time check, we will still be laughing and joking. It’s very restful, definitely no strife. When time limitations are tighter, such as during a stage setup, we always start off with a prayer, bearing in mind that to Him, our rest is more important. Setting up should never be done in strife, it is not what He has in mind for us.”
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So does one need to be a Piccasso to join the department? Not quite, but Joanne points out, “I would say a creative eye or an appreciation of aesthetics and creative expression will certainly come in handy.” Min Hwe describes from her own experience “I didn’t come into ministry knowing what to do or to offer. I just enjoyed looking at art and whatever that was beautiful. I say anybody can join because when I look at people around me in this ministry, they are not artists or designers per se. They simply have a heart to serve. Whoever is interested in learning a skill is welcome! We have a lot of people who have the heart to impart and share ideas.”
Jeremy takes the perspective of a server that supports the creative process “My constant challenge is that I never feel enough for this department. When I compare myself with some of the servers who are architects and designers, I consider moving out to serve in other departments. However, God always brings me back to the place where He helps me support the creative ideas of others — like in how to physically set up their ideas, how to do things more efficiently or even
sourcing for vendors.” One thing is for sure, whoever comes in to serve will not remain the same. “A lot of us who came in were a little shy and did not like to be in the spotlight. But we realised that we had to take up leadership roles, requiring us to make decisions and to speak up,” Min Hwe notes. “I was a bit anti-social and didn’t like to talk to people. But it was an opportunity for me to grow, for me to ask the Lord to fill me or soften me so that I don’t come off as being too straightforward, so that I can be effective and not be a misrepresentation of His ministry. Gradually, the fear and awkwardness subsided. ” There is no arguing that Spark Collective is a place where creativity flourishes. The ironic (or, indeed, blessed) part of it is that those who serve in the department do not necessarily have to be naturally creative or artistic — all that is needed is just a willing heart and available hands. After all, it is our allcreative God who ultimately supplies the ideas for His services. And in all this, the Spark Collective has the privileged position of supporting and executing the creative experience of services — of being heaven’s stagehands, if you will.
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melodies We stumble upon two groups of youths in The Zone for whom music is the thread that binds. [TEXT: JUSTIN LIM]
“If music be the food of love, play on!” That’s what Shakespeare wrote, and we totally agree! What is it about music that touches the heart, makes you want to do a little jig or sing at the top of your lungs? It is without doubt one of God’s best gifts to the world (the best being Jesus of course). Everybody likes music. We may not all be able to hold a tune, but we most definitely enjoy it. For two groups of youths in The Zone, music is more than something to enjoy. It has been a catalyst for kingdom friendships and continues to be the glue that binds. We speak to these two informal groups of budding musicians and find out more.
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hen Seong Koon Yeu Keed, Darren Lim, Rebecca Peh and a few other friends first got together for informal guitar lessons, it was triggered by very practical reasons – their JC care group (CG) was lacking a musician. Yeu Keed, who had been leading worship up till then, was graduating into a varsity care group, while the other only worship leader within the CG was busy with National Service. Instead of leaving things as they were, a small group of youths came together to learn to play the guitar so that they could help serve in their own care group. Comprising of youths who were all previously from the JC Cluster, it started out with two back in August 2011. Since then, it has grown to have a maximum number of six with three regular members, Yeu Keed, Darren and Rebecca. Despite their busy schedules, they still make it a point to meet up every week.
Learning is a lot more fun and motivating when done with a circle of friends and they would agree. Picking up a musical instrument is never easy, but in this group, much grace and patience is extended even to beginners. Even with the added responsibility of teaching, Yeu Keed finds it a good challenge to improve himself. There are basics to learn, techniques to improve on, songs to master. But they would be the first to share that these were never the heart behind the group. For them,
enjoying the process is always more important, and from that comes good fruits – for Legacy camp in 2012, a few of them worked together on an arrangement for a musical performance.
“It goes way beyond just the guitar. Techniques are secondary actually. We could actually meet and end up not using our guitars at all. Sometimes we just end up watching YouTube videos!” Yeu Keed shares. It’s about enjoying music, but also the company. They share new songs they’ve come across, introduce their preferred genres of music to their peers and even let their friends in on new songs they’ve written. “I actually have a personal goal, which is to put a tune to as many Psalms in the Bible as possible,” says Darren. As them what they think this group is all about and music, ironically, seems to take a back seat. “It’s a way of connecting even with friends who have moved from from the JC South CG,” Darren shares. “Yeah, the fellowship is most important, and we get to stay in touch with our friends,” Rebecca adds. “Plus, it’s a break from school work!”
What began as a simple desire to learn to play the guitar has blossomed into divine friendships. For everyone in the group, that, above all else, is what they’ve really gained from it all.
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hen music group Quiver gets together to jam, they book a studio. It is a jamming group made up of singers, guitarists, keyboardists and drummers, all at different seasons of their lives – some are studying, and some are working. It’s not a professional band by any means, they would tell you. In fact, they share that things were less than rosy when they first struggled to get their musical act together. Started in 2007 when a few passionate youths from the JC cluster came together to have fun with music, it has grown organically into a sizeable group of more than 10 members when it’s at its full strength. We sneak in for one of their jamming sessions and find out more.
When Edwin Wong and Joseph Yong from the JC Cluster, back in 2007, had a common dream to gather the JC youths with a common passion for music, two groups were formed and one of which was Quiver. It consists of, singer/ drummer Amanda Mathew, guitarist Joshua Teng, keyboardist/pianist Valencia Foo, singer Yang Kai Lin, electric guitarist Jonathan Low, bassist Jeremy Tse, singer Johanna Ang, electric guitarist Yeu Keed, drummer Joan Gan and singer Eugene Long. Even with a common passion in music, they would be the first to tell you that things started out less than easy as they struggled to get their music together. However, it was when they stopped trying and simply started praying did they see breakthroughs not just collectively but in their own personal walk with Him too. These jamming sessions are very much avenues for them to get into mini worship sessions.
SO WHY DID YOU GUYS CHOOSE THE NAME QUIVER? JOAN GAN: It was Johanna’s idea because she was
reading the book of Proverbs. She shared that in it, it speaks of arrows being sharpened when they are in the quiver and they are sharp and fit for the master’s use. That actually speaks of our band because it happened. So many of us came in with
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very raw skills but we were “shot out” to serve in different music ministries. AMANDA MATHEW: There was an acceleration in
our music journey in that sense.
BUT IT DIDN’T START OUT AS AN IDEA TO COME TOGETHER IN A STUDIO TO WORSHIP BUT TO JAM RIGHT? SEONG KOON YEU KEED: No, it was really to jam. EUGENE LONG: But Amanda and Joan and sometimes
Johanna always started us out with prayer.
JOAN: I feel like I need prayer because I’m not
the neatest drummer. So when I pray, it’s like the Lord is always with me.
DO YOU GUYS FIND THAT THERE IS A DIFFERENCE WHEN YOU JAM TO CHRISTIAN MUSIC AS COMPARED TO SECULAR MUSIC? AMANDA: Sometimes we choose songs without
reading the lyrics first. So when the singer starts singing the lyrics, and we realise halfway that the lyrics are quite wrong. We stare awkwardly at each other and then we decide to change songs. JOAN: I feel there is. We know the Lord is always
with us. But when we play Christian songs, somehow or other we go into worship even when we are playing for fun. So that’s the difference. It’s still fun when we play secular songs, the joy of the Lord is there. But when we play Christian music, we go into a mini worship session.
SO WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN JAMMING HERE AND SERVING AS A MUSICIAN OR SINGER? YEU KEED: There is a certain level of expectation
when it comes to serving. I have always thought of this band, Quiver, as a training ground for me. Even before I started serving in Worship Ministry, I just wanted to grab a hold of like-minded people and practice with them and see where I can go from there. So this is like a nest, a quiver really. EUGENE: When I was asked into the band by
Johanna, I think I was doing my first year in army. It’s been humbling for me because I used to be
all about self. I used to be in the school choir so when I joined the youth choir I thought like it’s going to be the same thing. I learned it’s not the same thing. It’s about flowing and really feeling the presence, that’s why I came to this band. Everyone was really encouraging; the band mates, these guys have always been around me, always encouraging me.
HOW DO PEOPLE COME AND JOIN THE BAND OVER TIME? AMANDA: Usually friends who bring friends. We
have never been exclusive. We always had the attitude of whoever would like to jam with us can join us. If we lack a member for the day and know someone who can fill the gap, we would invite them down. If they like us, they are free to stay with us. JOSHUA: I am the newest. I already knew three
of them plus Johanna. So one day they lacked an acoustic guitarist so Amanda asked if I wanted to join and in the end, it was a great thing. It’s to me more a “friend” session than a jamming session. I meet up with them for fun more than I actually jam with them. They are more like a circle of friends.
ALL OF YOU GUYS CAN PLAY BY EAR? WE SEE YOU GUYS DON’T HAVE SCORES. AMANDA: Actually we didn’t start out like that.
In the beginning we couldn’t even get through a song and we always left feeling very frustrated at one another and condemning ourselves for not being as good as we thought we could be. At the next session, the same thing would happen again. We just weren’t as musically proficient. Things started to change when our approach change. We just came with the idea of having fun and not to care so much. We started having fun and even helped each other out more like advising one another, “Oh hey you can actually play it this way.” EUGENE: That’s also when we started praying
because we found out we weren’t proficient in and of ourselves. We decided to devote our jamming sessions to prayer. JOAN: We have always wanted to make good
music but in the past we allowed that to affect our relationships. But that’s not what the jamming sessions was about. But when the Lord is in, He’s the one that holds our music and friendships together. He’s been good.
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2013 year of the key of david
Learning to walk in the divine wisdom of God in the year of open and shut doors.
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Excerpted from Pastor Benjamin Lim’s sermon at Arrow Service on 26 January 2013.
HAT AN EXCITING START TO 2013! Our church just stepped into The Star, and I believe that a very new and exciting chapter has started for all of us. Our God is a God who moves from one level of glory to another level of glory and He wants to bring His people with Him. God is going to cause the young generation to shine for His glory. You are part of that generation!
The Lord has declared that 2013 shall be the Year Of The Key Of David! It shall be a year where God will open doors for you that no one can shut and shut doors that no man can open. (Isaiah 22:22) Yes, there will be closed doors as well. If any doors are closed to you, do not be disappointed. Your disappointments are but God’s divine appointments in your life. God knows your future and it is better to put your future in His hands than to leave it in your own hands. His hand is bigger.
Learning To Be Led By Wisdom
Of course, many doors will be opened to you too. It will be because of the favour of God that is upon you. Doors that were shut will suddenly fling wide open. That’s what the favour of God does for you. And sometimes, we can have so many open doors that we have a hard time deciding which one to choose. But God wants us to receive of His wisdom because wisdom will cause you to choose the right door.
Wisdom is different from knowledge. It is not knowledge. Knowledge tells you what things are, but wisdom tells you how to apply knowledge. Education does not necessarily bring you wisdom. Just because someone is a walking Wikipedia does not mean that he is very wise. On the contrary, the Bible says that knowledge puffs up. (1 Corinthians 8:1) It makes your head big. Your teachers, lecturers and even supervisors at work can guide you and give you knowledge, but only God can give wisdom. Wisdom also does not come with experience. People can learn through their experiences, but not every experienced person is wise. There may be very accomplished people in society, many older than you, but they might not have wisdom – wisdom about how to raise their children in Godly ways, to have a blissful family life, or how to avoid getting into debt. These people may be very talented, but talent is not good enough. In fact, talent is overrated. What you need is the wisdom of God. And I believe that this year, you will grow in wisdom in many areas of your life like never before.
Youth Is Not A Barrier To The Spirit Of Wisdom
In the story of Job (Job 32:1–9), there were three friends advising Job and they were all giving him wrong counsel. But there was this young man, Elihu, who came to them and said, “I am young in years, and you are very old; therefore I was afraid and dared not declare my opinion to you.” Young people, let me say this to you: don’t let any man despise your youth. See what Elihu continues to say: “Age should speak and multitude of years should teach wisdom. But there is a spirit in man, and the breath of the Almighty gives him understanding.” You see, we are not just people of the mind. You are a spirit that has been born again – a new creation that is packed with the wisdom of God. You might say, “But Pastor Benjamin, I’m not as experienced as someone else.” Maybe you are looking for a job and you think you cannot compare to somebody else who has a few more years’ worth of experience than you do. Let me tell you, they may have years of experience, but you have a God that gives you understanding. Elihu says “Great men are not always wise, nor do the aged always understand justice.” Just because you are older doesn’t mean that you are wiser. It is God who will deposit understanding into your spirit man.
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“If any doors are closed to you, do not be disappointed. You disappointments are but God’s divine appointments in your life. God knows your future and it is better to put your future in His hands than to leave it in your own hands.”
Once you know you have the spirit of wisdom that is from God, you don’t have to be afraid to speak up. But don’t just learn to speak up. Learn when to speak up. The best thing to speak up about is the gospel – how Jesus Christ, the Son of God, came from heaven to earth and died on the cross for all our sins. This is what we should be standing up for. And God will give you wisdom this year to speak up. He will give you a wisdom that man cannot resist.
Receive Wisdom By Worshipping The Lord
How do we receive the wisdom of God? In Job 28:28, it says, “And to man He said, ‘Behold, the fear of the Lord that is wisdom, and to depart from evil is understanding.’” In fact, Proverbs 9:10 says “The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom, and the knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.” But it does not mean that we need to be scared of God.
Jesus Himself defines what is the fear of the Lord. In Matthew 4:10, when Jesus said, “Away with you, Satan! For it is written, ‘You shall worship the Lord your God, and Him only shall you serve.’” He was quoting from Deuteronomy 6:13, but He replaced the word “fear” with the word “worship”. So the fear of the Lord is actually the worship of the Lord. This year, if you want wisdom, worship Him. The worship of the Lord will see you step into a mighty rushing river of wisdom. The Bible also says that the wise will inherit glory. (Proverbs 3:35) The word “glory” is kavod in Hebrew. It means weightiness. When the Bible says that Abraham was very rich in material goods, the word “rich” is also kavod. As you continuously worship the Lord, you will be come wiser, and you will inherit glory. You will inherit abundance. You will inherit influence and weightiness in your words. You will be respected – It is nice to be liked, but it’s only when you have respect that you have influence.
Worldly Wisdom Versus Heavenly Wisdom
There are two kinds of wisdom that the Bible talks about. One is worldly wisdom and the other is heavenly wisdom. JAMES 3:13–8
Who is wise and understanding among you? Let him show by good conduct that his works are done in the meekness of wisdom. 14But if you have bitter envy and selfseeking in your hearts, do not boast and lie against the truth. 15This wisdom does not descend from above, but is earthly, sensual, demonic. 16For where envy and self-seeking exist, confusion and every evil thing are there. 17But the wisdom that is from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, willing to yield, full of mercy and good fruits, without partiality and without hypocrisy. 18Now the fruit of righteousness is sown in peace by those who make peace. 13
QUALITIES OF WORLDLY AND HEAVENLY WISDOM
Worldly Wisdom Bitter Envy Strife in Hearts Boastful Lying/Deceitful Earthly Sense-based/Emotional Demonic Confusion
Heavenly Wisdom Pure Peaceable Gentle Willing to Yield Full of Mercy Good Fruits Without Partiality/Hypocrisy
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Every time you need to make a decision and wonder if you are flowing in God’s wisdom, look at the qualities of heavenly wisdom. It is always pure, always peaceable. If you want to take a decision, know that the wisdom of God speaks peace to your heart, not stress. If you are feeling vexed about something and frustrated, take time to cool off. Don’t make decisions or act based on your emotions. Give it a few days, pray over it, and go before the Lord, start worshipping Him and surrender the care to Him. Heavenly wisdom is peaceable.
When you are wise, you are also willing to submit. The Bible says that in the multitude of counselors there is safety. (Proverbs 11:14) Note, it does not say in the multitude of friends. It says counselors – those that God has established as spiritual authorities over your lives. Among them, there is safety.
Wisdom Is The Person Of Jesus
Above all, know that wisdom is a person. In 1 Corinthians 1:30, it says “But of Him you are in Christ Jesus, who became for us wisdom from God…” Jesus is your wisdom. It is not a formula. If you are in Christ Jesus, and He is wisdom, that means you are in wisdom already. You are not trying to attain wisdom – you already have it. As you worship the Lord, you will step into the flow of wisdom more and more. Every time you are faced with a situation, go to Wisdom Himself. If you need help in your studies, or if you need wisdom for a problem at work, go to Jesus and worship Him. He will write in your heart and impart into your heart a kind of wisdom that is peaceable, pure, full of mercy, and you will know what to do. JOHN 10:9
I am the door. If anyone enters by Me, he will be saved, and will go in and out and find pasture.
Sometimes, when we hear a theme like this year’s, we become consumed with looking out for open doors. But instead of looking around you for doors of opportunity, look to Jesus. Jesus is the door! Stop looking for circumstantial doors. Look up to Him and say, “Lord Jesus, you are my wisdom, my door.” Anyone who enters by Jesus will be saved! When you enter by Jesus, the power of the gospel will be released into your life. If you need to be protected, that is released. If you need to be preserved, that is released. If you need to be prospered or healed, that is released. If you need the favour of God, that is released. He will release salvation into your life. The verse also says that you will “go in and out and find pasture” – that is a picture of abundance. People like to quote from John 10:10: “The thief does not come except to steal and to kill, and to destroy. I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly.” Instead of the thief, Jesus has come to us. He is the door to life, and life more abundantly! As you step into the Year Of The Key Of David, worshipping and praising God, you will find God releasing an anointing. He will release wisdom and bring you to pastures. You will experience the abundant life like you’ve never experienced it before!
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PRAISE REPORTS
Testimonies of the Lord’s faithfulness in our lives
MIRACLE HEALING OF WRIST ARIENNE KOH
DARE (LEVEL 2), DOULOS
I want to share a miracle that happened to me. I had fluid in my wrist that caused me to feel pain whenever I bent it backwards. When I went to see the doctor in Primary 6, the doctor said that it was an in-grown condition and the only way to remove it was through surgery. If I chose not to remove it, it would be permanent. For the past 2 years, I had been praying and trusting the Lord for the fluid to disappear so that there would be no pain whenever I bent it backwards. But for two years, it remained.
During our recent Dare Group (DG) sharing, we were talking about the power of praise. One morning, when I was getting ready for school and having my breakfast, I was listening to some Christian music and was singing along. In school, during chemistry class, I was just singing a song softly. ‘Jesus You be lifted higher, higher. Be lifted higher, Jesus You be lifted higher...’ and I sang it a couple of times. After I stopped
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singing, I suddenly felt like there was something moving in my wrist. I wondered what it was. The first thing that came to my mind was if the fluid had disappeared. I tried bending my hand on the chair and it didn’t hurt. After chemistry was my physical education class, I was really excited to try doing some push ups — I wasn’t able to do them before due to the pain — and found that I was able to do them without any pain! I later tried doing a handstand too, and it didn’t hurt! I wanted to share this to let everyone know that even if it seems like nothing is happening to your situation even though you’ve been praying, know that Jesus is working behind the scenes and is working on it. Even if you don’t see your miracle happening in a few days, weeks, months, or in my case, years, it will happen in due time — just like the miraculous healing of my wrist.
AWARDED SCHOLARSHIP THROUGH UNMERITED FAVOUR CHERYL SEET
ARROW (VARSITY), LSMDN
I am a first year nursing student at NUS. Recently, I was awarded a scholarship by one of the largest healthcare groups in Singapore. The scholarship covers my tuition fees throughout my course of study and also provides for my monthly allowance. It also offers many opportunities for me to further my studies. As my grades in Junior College were just average, it was quite difficult to obtain any scholarships in the natural. Nevertheless, I proclaimed that the Lord’s favour surrounds me like a shield and also anointed myself before the interview.
Although I felt quite disappointed after the interview, I simply rested and told the Lord, “If this is the right scholarship for me, then You will surely provide.” I then forgot about the interview until two weeks later, when the organisation sent me an email telling me that my interview was successful and I was awarded the scholarship! Truly, it can only be the undeserved favour of Daddy God. In areas where I lack, His grace is more than sufficient for me. He is our provider. All glory goes to the Lord!
During the interview, the interviewer asked if I do community work regularly, which I had not been doing. I felt that my answers were also not very fascinating.
PROTECTED FROM SERIOUS ACCIDENT MARCUS LEE
DARE (LEVEL 4), RADZON
Less than a month into 2013, God literally saved me from a fatal accident. It happened at around 1pm at a sloping exit near Yio Chu Kang MRT station. My friend and I were cycling down the slope at quite a fast speed. My friend made a sharp right turn and jammed his brakes as a motorcycle suddenly came out of nowhere! I panicked! I looked towards the left and there was someone walking towards me, so I didn’t know what else to do and just kept going straight. When I approached the road divider, I lifted the front of my bike up and mounted the road divider. As I did that, I saw a van coming in my direction with its horns blaring loudly. I was still panicking and
moved forward, off the road divider, with the thought that I must get to the other side of the road where it was safe. As I moved forward, a car suddenly came from my left and the front tyre of my bike hit the side of the driver’s door. This caused my handlebar to turn 180 degrees, resulting in my fall. My friend who was watching me said if I had been any faster, I would have been hit by this second car. However, if I had been any slower, I would have likely been hit by the first car. I was able to survive with no serious injuries and minor damages on my bike. This is truly by the grace of God. All glory to Jesus for His protection!
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Open Door Policy One of our own at The Zone Magazine experiments with leaving the door to her room open for 22 days. [TEXT: SARAH KOH]
T
he door to my room is usually closed. It serves a few purposes, of course. Firstly, to keep the noise/music from my room from disturbing my parents and younger brother outside. Secondly, to prevent visitors, such as said parents and younger brother, from barging in unannounced and disturbing the clean, peaceful haven that is my room. I also like my space. When 2013 was declared the year of open doors, the image of having the door to my room opened came to mind. It was perhaps word-picture association at play more than anything else. But what if I took it literally and kept my room door open for a length of time? How would it affect my relationship with family members? Would anything change at all? This called for an experiment, as apprehensive as I was about it (I like my personal space, remember?).
It felt odd leaving my door open at first. It meant adjusting the volume of my music, and being mindful of the occasional talking to myself in loud voices. It also meant telling whoever was watching TV outside to kindly turn it down a notch. For the first few days, my parents would just periodically poke their head into my room to check on me, ask what I was doing, or ask me to help them with various computer things. It surprisingly didn’t feel very imposing. Sometimes, my mum even produced a small bowl of cut fruit for me to snack on. My brother, the most delighted one of all, began parading into my room. He would plonk down on my bed and bombard me with questions like younger siblings do. But sometimes we’d actually get to talk. Sometimes if I was busy or grumpy, I’d snap and tell him to get out of my room, but then feel bad about it and apologise after. Over the course of the 22 days, my room became a secondary living room of sorts. My mum would come in more often, sit on my bed and fold clothes. My dad would find his spot on my bed too and read his book while I did my own thing on the computer. The novelty was soon lost on my brother, but he would still come in and sit at a corner to play with his phone. Having my door open allowed my family to come in and be around. It wasn’t ground breaking or life-changing by any stretch. But even though we weren’t constantly talking, it was like a quiet blessing — just being in each other’s presence and enjoying it, which seems to be a rare occurrence these days.
I came to realise that when I decided to leave my room door open, I was also deciding to leave the door to my heart open to my family members. It allowed me to move from having a don’t-disturb-me attitude, to actually enjoying the company of my family. It was a chance taken with Jesus, to allow Him to teach me something through this exercise. I call it having an open door policy at home, and I highly recommend it!
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Abroad but not alone
We ask one of our own about finding a local church to attend while studying overseas [INTERVIEW BY: SHANA SIO W]
Going abroad to study is always an exciting thing, regardless of whether it’s for a few years, or a short few months on an exchange programme. One of the most important preparations one can make for such a trip is to find a good church to attend during this time abroad. It’s not always the easiest thing to do, especially when there are big cultural differences. So how exactly does one go about doing this? We ask Philip Loy, who recently had the privilege of going to Shanghai for a 5-month-long student exchange programme at Fu Dan University, about his own experience.
TELL US ABOUT WHY YOU DECIDED TO GO TO CHINA FOR YOUR EXCHANGE PROGRAMME.
PHILIP LOY (PL): When I was a kid, my family and I went to China a lot for the school holidays, so I had very pleasant childhood memories of China. That got me very interested in China again, and when such programmes came up I applied for them. Before this exchange I went on a two-week summer trip to Beijing University under the Sino Singapore Undergrad Exchange where we would host students from Beijing University for two weeks, and then we would go over there for two weeks, and I made a lot of friends from China due to that as well. Of course, going to China is a lot cheaper than applying for the States or Europe too. WHAT WAS THE INITIAL PROCESS OF FINDING A CHURCH THERE LIKE?
PL: I initially contemplated not committing to a local church. I did try out some churches with my friend but we found it wasn’t really a fit, or it was really too far from school. The Christian movement in China is different from Singapore, so there are a lot of unregistered churches around, and I felt like I couldn’t click with people because of the different cultures within the church. HOW DID YOU END UP COMMITTING TO ONE CHURCH IN THE END?
PL: It was when a church friend from Singapore visited me during her vacation to China, and brought me to a cell group that she knew of because she had been an exchange student there before. That’s when I met the leader for the cell group of this particular church — it was one of the greatest things that happened to me during that trip in China. He offered to mentor me, and every Saturday night I just had heart-toheart talks with him.
HOW WOULD YOU ADVISE SOMEONE WHO WANTS TO FIND A CHURCH TO ATTEND WHILE THEY ARE ON EXCHANGE?
PL: Well, the first church you visit doesn’t have to be the one you commit to, unless you go there and you feel very comfortable. If you don’t feel comfortable, just look around. The body of Christ is so diverse and so big, I’m sure that there’s something that will fit. I realised that finding a fellowship that suits you comes by trial and error. Regardless, it’s good to seek out godly fellowship since you’re in a new (and unfamiliar) place. You have to be open-minded, but at the same time you’ve got to have the wisdom to know what to do and what to listen to. I think that at New Creation Church, we call it “spitting out the bones” – to take in doctrine that lines up with Word and ignore anything that contradicts the Word.
WHAT WOULD YOU SAY TO SOMEONE WHO WISHES TO FIND NEW FRIENDS DURING EXCHANGE?
You’ve got to be careful with the friends you make. Don’t disclose your personal information too quickly and pray for wisdom. If you don’t feel comfortable with certain people, learn to be firm and say no, especially those whose values don’t align to yours. And even before advice on making friends, there was a place where I asked if I was mature enough to go out there alone on my own. It’s a process you should go through with your parents and leaders, and to discuss with them about whether you should go abroad or not.
HOW WOULD YOU SEE THE CHURCH FROM A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE NOW?
PL: The body of Christ, is really cool. In China, I attended a small church there but you see people from all nationalities: Africans, Americans, Europeans, Singaporeans, Hong Kongers, Taiwanese, Chinese. You really see that the church is made up of people from all over the world.
As a whole, there will definitely be doctrinal differences, but somehow I learnt to not get offended by people who don’t fully agree with what Pastor Prince preaches. As Pastor Brian Houston puts it, “It’s not about me, it’s about us as the body of Christ”. My view is that when I’m with them, I’m their brother in Christ and we just find strength and comfort in that kind of fellowship we have together. We find that there are so many values that we want to fight for together, especially in this day and age, like sexual purity, respect and honour, honouring your government, honouring your parents.
ANY OTHER INTERESTING EXPERIENCES YOU’LL LIKE TO SHARE ABOUT THESE 5 MONTHS YOU’VE BEEN IN CHINA?
PL: In the past, I used to be very kantang pai [Englishoriented] and if you told me to listen to Chinese songs, I wouldn’t do it. But, when I went to China, I started listening to mando-pop singers like Jay Chou, and even learnt to play them on the guitar.
I also love fitness, so I decided to find something to help me keep fit. I thought martial arts would be a good balance so I picked up two martial arts, both are Chinese; the first one is called Shan Da, it’s similar to kickboxing, and the other one I picked up was Yong Chun Quan (popularised by the Ip Man movie). It’s pretty cool!
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FOR THE LOVE OF
PAPER We peek into the notebooks of six youths and rekindle our love affair with the written word. [TEXT: LEE WEIYI]
Going through the year’s notebook — and by that I’m referring to ink on paper — is a personal tradition for me. Sitting quietly in the room and flipping through the pages, it helps me to remember what the Lord had spoken to me during the year and, in a way, take stock of my life. Trawling through my archive of notebooks, I had a good time laughing. I could tell who sat beside me in certain services, thanks to signature doodles left on my notebook. Most significantly, I discovered a gamut of note-taking styles in my own notebooks — madly copying everything spoken from the pulpit, structured point form notes, mind maps to messy scribbles. Out of curiosity and in an exercise in voyeurism, I took a peek into the notebooks of six youths in The Zone.
KEVIN LOY SHING YONG
ARROW, NTU ENGINEERING CG
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT NOTE TAKING?
Writing feels like talking to God, so I guess I’m having a conversation as I write. It keeps me engaged and locked-in to service, as opposed to just sitting and listening. I really love
it when I flip back to particular notes and I remember the emotions I had then and the
situation that God spoke to me about because of it. I would remember and experience His goodness all over again.
WHAT IS A MUST-HAVE FOR YOUR NOTE TAKING?
My ilot G2 0.5 black pen. Writing with anything else is just urgh. And of course I would want to write on my leather-bound journal, I love it! The notebook itself is precious and
personal to me and I have archived a series already. I even have the next brand new notebook waiting in line.
SARAH NG ARROW, TPB CG
DESCRIBE YOUR NOTE TAKING STYLE.
Doodles, sometimes illustrative. I like to draw! Rather than just having words all the time, drawings make it more interesting. It also allows me to use the visuals to relate to the message! Sometimes I would just have an entire page filled with drawings and a little quote. I feel that it is pretty and yet it speaks to me because the selection of quote or verse relates to me.
WHAT DO YOU USE YOUR NOTES FOR?
During the week, I would flip through my notebook and read it briefly. With all the powerful quotes (short and sweet) and verses written down, it is more than enough to encourage
me and remind me of God’s love for me. It’s like a mini message compiled into a few pages of God’s word and visuals.
STEVEN ANG
GENREV, ROSEBURN AVE CG
HOW DO YOU KNOW WHAT TO TAKE DOWN DURING SERVICE?
I usually take down parts of the message that speak to me personally; things that I can relate to in my life. Also when something Pastor says gives me a fresh revelation of Jesus.
WHAT DO YOU USE YOUR NOTES FOR?
I refer to them at the end of my day, before I sleep. It helps to keep me reminded
of His Word to me, daily. When I go through a different season of life, the notes
also remind me of the journey that I had taken before, and reminds me of His
goodness in my life, especially when the current season is tough. This helps me to get back in perspective of His faithfulness for what is ahead.
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CALEB LOW DARE, RADICAL DG
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT NOTE TAKING?
I started off writing on notebooks, but I found it troublesome to carry around and tiring
to write. I then switched to typing notes on my phone. But I realised that writing it by
hand is actually better for me. I found that I caught more things during the sermon. As I began to jot things down, I found myself unconsciously memorising some of the
things being said. Someone once told me that we retain more things when we write than just listening!
WHAT DO YOU USE YOUR NOTES FOR?
I find it easy to forget what was preached and said. When I’m overwhelmed by schoolwork and just
feeling dry and empty, I go back to my notes. As I read the things written on my notebook, I find myself refreshed and strengthened. These notes are reminders of who I am in Christ, and how great His grace is, pointing me back to Jesus.
AUDREY CHRYSILLA
DARE, @CROSS DG
DESCRIBE YOUR NOTE TAKING STYLE.
Colourful and cheerful.
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT NOTE TAKING?
It helps me to focus on Pastor’s sermon. Writing notes helps to leave a greater impression on me of the Word. HOW DO YOU KNOW WHAT TO TAKE DOWN DURING SERVICE?
There isn’t really a technique, it just flows. During the sermon I’ll just feel God highlight to me the things that I need to hear, and answer my needs. I believe that what God highlights is special for each individual. WHAT IS A MUST-HAVE FOR YOUR NOTE TAKING?
Multi-coloured and shiny pens, markers and a notebook. Writing rainbow-ish notes always energises and cheers me up!
PHOEBE LIM
5 tips for note taking: 1
NUS ARTS CG
WHAT DO YOU ENJOY ABOUT NOTE TAKING?
Note taking keeps me engaged and it keeps me EXPECTANT. With a pen and notebook in hand, it’s kind of like my mind is set
to listen out for what God might have in store for me, so it raises
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HOW DO YOU KNOW WHAT TO TAKE DOWN DURING SERVICE?
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the expectation that, “Yes Phoebe, get ready, there is a special Word just for you today, child of God!”
Hmmm, well most times, you JUST know! I believe that God’s word is ALIVE and when a certain sentence, or line goes forth,
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“oh ya horr”, or “amen!”
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if it’s the life that I need, it jumps out at me and I catch it.
Simply put, I take down whatever makes me feel like “wahhhh!”, #34
There are no formats and no right or wrong approach to capturing notes. We are each unique and wired differently so go with what works best for you be it doodling, sketching, word illustrations or simply just scribbling them down in point form! Bring on those colourful pens and highlighters to spice up your notes. Who said they are only meant for textbooks? It’s not about the quantity of the sermon you captured but what speaks personally to you. Take down the number of the reference chapter and verse before the chapter title.
Keep your notebook near you so that you can always refer to them.
SHARING THE LOVE The DARE parent-child mission trip to Chiang Mai brought about blessings in more ways than one. [TEXT: ANDREA TAN]
Last November, a team of parents, youths, leaders and servers took time away from home and headed to Chiang Mai, Thailand for a DARE Level 2 Parent-Child mission trip! Amongst them were 18 pairs of parent and child, and together they brought the gospel of Jesus Christ to the students of Wat Latong School and the local community. United in their desire to reach out with our Saviour’s love, the team transcended cultural and language barriers as they got involved in community building projects, home visits, conducting workshops, and even putting together a carnival and an evangelistic event. A harvest of salvations, healing testimonies, and even restoration of relationships among our youths and their parents has truly marked this trip as most special one. Here, we hear from some youths as well as some of the parents who went on the trip.
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This trip was different from our normal family holidays because I got to spend time with my mum, doing work for the Lord and I got to see a different part of her during this trip. From the mission trip, I have learnt to understand my mum better and my mum understands me better also. Because of this, we now quarrel less. Plus, sometimes, it’s like she’s not just my mum but also my friend!
During the trip, I realised that Daddy God has done so much in the lives of the Thai kids there. They have a simple life and yet they’re so happy with the little they have. Also, it made me realise that Daddy God is a good God and I began to want to hear Him speak into my life more and to use my life as a testimony to bring more people to Him.
Pierre Ng, Adonai DG
This mission trip is special because it was my first time being away from home together with my girl for a meaningful purpose, mainly to introduce our Lord Jesus Christ to the lives of the Thai children. As a new believer, I was honoured to witness miracles performed by the Lord for the families we visited and how gracious our Lord Jesus Christ is. It was amazing! We learnt not only to thank Jesus for everything in our lives but also understand that we are truly blessed by Him to be able to make a difference and an impact in the lives of others.
Sincent Soh (father of Leticia Soh, Armourbearer DG)
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The most memorable part of the trip was when both Kenan and I were working together, planting bushes in the flower trough. Although few words were exchanged while we both worked quietly, that moment was very special for us both because it seemed like Daddy God was pouring out His love over both of us. There was a feeling of peace, joy, love and contentment as we served the Lord together as a mother-son team.
Krystina Ooi (mother of Kenan Liew, Adage DG)
We both wanted God to use us to impact the lives of the families there and it was so wonderful and priceless that we could do it together. We were a team! Personally, I was so moved when I witnessed how our Daddy God filled Zachary with such wisdom and favour so that he could be a blessing to others. Praise Jesus!
Edwin Lim (father of Zachary Lim, Above DG)
This trip really helped me to see a different side of my father and helped me to grow closer to him. On the trip, I saw how my father could work really hard and take responsibility for his work. I think I really respect my father much more after this trip and really feel blessed to have him as my dad.
Zachary Lim (Above DG) This parent-child mission trip has been a most life-changing experience for me, as I witnessed how the love of our Lord Jesus Christ truly transcended all boundaries and languages. As we laid down bricks in building the foundations of the flower trough, I was thankful for our chief Cornerstone who has been faithful in holding us all together. As we built His house in Chiang Mai, He brought great restoration to our houses, in relationships between the parents and youths.
Julie Low (DARE leader)
One of my most memorable moments of the trip was during the home visits when a miracle happened in front of my eyes. My team visited a house with an old granny who had fallen down a few times over the past few years. Doctors said that she had to wear a back brace for life as her back is now very fragile. We offered to pray for her back and after that, the family also decided to accept Jesus as their Lord and Saviour! We also realised that the granny no longer felt as much pain in her back as before, despite having sat chatting with us for 45 minutes, which was much longer than she could usually sit for! When we were about to leave the house, we saw the old granny walking out with no brace on her back! On top of that, she looked much happier and was walking faster! Wow! All glory to Jesus! A miracle happened right in front of our very own eyes!
Sharmaine Lee, Armourbearer DG
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The highlight of the trip was the moment in the school during the evangelistic event when the children received Jesus. I felt the strong presence of Jesus there, guiding and leading the young children to Him. And I saw many children raising their hands and saying the salvation prayer. So many of them were saved! It was a very amazing moment and I’m glad that we could bless the kids and see them get blessed by Jesus.
Joey Ng (Adonai DG) On this trip, I saw a different side of Cherie. Throughout the trip, she was always keeping a lookout for me and serving me food & drinks without me asking. The most memorable part of the trip is during the campfire night when we had some mother-daughter time just talking and praying for each other. During that time, I saw how Jesus strengthened our relationship and brought the two of us closer than we were before the trip. It’s amazing to be part of the kind of miracles that Jesus does and I feel so overwhelmed by His love and what He can do, even when we are overseas. This parent-child mission trip has been a great experience for both Cherie and I and we are looking forward to another one in the near future.
Maggie Tan (mother of Cherie See, Ahava DG) Both Josephine and I have been greatly blessed in this mission trip. Since the mission trip, Josephine has been volunteering to go marketing and grocery shopping with me! I am thankful for the transformation in Josephine, and her elder sister even commended Josephine for the change in her attitude when she is out marketing and grocery shopping!
Heidi Ho (mother of Josephine Lim, Adonai DG)
During the trip, I got to hear one of the mums share about how she feels when she corrects her son. After hearing what was shared, I understand better how parents are also very much like us and they do feel bad when they scold or correct someone. I learnt that parenting isn’t easy! After the trip, I feel closer to my mum after and when we got back to Singapore, my dad jokingly commented that he is ‘jealous’ of our new relationship!
Josephine Lim, Adonai DG
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serve your generation! WE ARE LIVING IN EXCITING TIMES AND WE INVITE YOU TO GET IN ON THE ACTION! AS GOD POURS FORTH HIS BLESSINGS ON THE ZONE, WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO NOT JUST BE A SPECTATOR, BUT BE ACTIVELY INVOLVED. GOD IS WORKING MIRACLES IN THE ZONE AND YOU HAVE AN OPPORTUNITY TO SEE IT FIRSTHAND AS A SERVER!
Where Would You Like to Serve?
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SPARK ACT
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SPARK INK
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SIMPLY FILL UP THE FORM ONLINE AT HTTP://BIT.LY/SERVEINTHEZONE
TURKEY In The Footsteps Of Grace The DARE Level 4 graduating class of 2012 tell their tales of travelling around Turkey and share how experiencing the Bible in real life has touched their lives.
Ivan Cheong, EG DG I was blessed to have had the chance to go for the Turkey trip, which was an excellent personal retreat with the Lord. We had the chance to visit the well-preserved churches of Paul’s time. This allowed us to see how the early Christians suffered just to worship the same God we have the privilege of freely worshipping today. We travelled around Turkey among majestic mountains and great creations that came into existence when our Heavenly Father spoke forth. It then dawned upon me that despite having such great power, He chose to come and live among sinful men with such love. How He loves us so! Isaac Pang, Ezio DG During a session of praise and worship, I saw a cloud in the sky. That cloud looked normal at first, but slowly, the cloud turned into a heart-shape, as though crafted by the winds. Also there was a cross etched into the right side of the cloud. Instantly, I heard God saying, “Isaac, I love you. I gave up My Son for you.” I felt in my heart such peace and warmth, having been reminded of God’s undying love for me. The whole trip served as that reminder that above everything else, God is love. He loves me and loves to bless me.
Emily Caluraud, ELA DG At the start I was ready to go to Israel and was sorely disappointed to learn we were going to Turkey instead. However, Daddy God turned this around. When we were visiting the Church of Philadelphia, Revelations 3:7 (one of the verses for 2013) spoke to me. Whatever door God opens no man can shut, and whatever door He closes no man can open. I know that this is just a very small glimpse of God’s plans for me and that my future is bright and everything will work out perfectly for me. I also saw Daddy God’s master artworks: the snow, beautiful clouds, rainbows and most importantly the grace of God. Wayne Ong, EchoEsprit DG Personally, I just wanted to see the Bible come alive. My heart’s desire was to experience the gospel spiritually and physically. All the ancient monuments and architectures were eye-catching and the Bible physically came alive right in front of me! I was so blessed and touched at how God would bless me. Praise Jesus!
Elizabeth Barber, Eklektos DG The trip to Turkey was a wonderful spiritual journey with Daddy God. Singing praises to Him where roots of grace began was an amazing experience. Seeing snow for the first time was a sign of just how much Jesus loves me. Although it was too early for snow, our Daddy God really heard our prayers and sent forth snow for us to play in! My favourite part of the journey was when we went to the Cotton Castle in Pammukale. The view was phenomenal and I felt so loved and amazed that we have such a wonderful God. If Cotton Castle is that beautiful, how much more beautiful is heaven! Tay Xiang Wei, EchoEsprit DG One of my favourite moments in the trip was worshipping at the fairy chimneys at Cappadocia. The scenery was so beautiful that we did not want to leave, even when the temperature was dropping and the sun was setting. After coming back from Turkey, I have a greater appreciation for the Bible. Whenever Pastor Prince mentions Pisidian Antioch or the church of Philadelphia or the church of Laodicea I’d be thinking, I was there! Joy Wee, Extreme DG Turkey was super awesome! I loved the praise and worship sessions the most as we sang amongst nature — God’s creations! Before Turkey, I felt really insecure at times. I felt alone and sometimes even doubted if I had friends at all. So one of my expectations for the trip was to be rid of this “fear” or “oppression” and to form some kingdom friendships. Sure enough, God opened my eyes to see that I wasn’t alone after all and I even made some precious new friends!
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Abigail Lim, EPIC DG When we arrived in Ephesus, there was a short time of sharing by Pastor Joe. He reminded us of what Pastor Benjamin had spoken over the level at IDU camp: Out of this level would come many leaders. He also mentioned 1 Timothy 4:12, “Let no one despise your youth.” As I kept meditating, I felt Daddy God tell me that my age didn’t matter and that I was not too young to be used by Him. After all, Jesus’ answers were astounding the teachers in the temple when He was just 12! Also, Timothy, the pastor of the church in Ephesus, was one of the youngest pastors of one of the largest churches. If Jesus used Timothy despite his age, then my age doesn’t matter either!
Ashley Toh, Eklektos DG The two things I enjoyed most about the Turkey trip were the long bus rides and outdoor worship sessions. The long bus rides gave us time to read the Bible in preparation for the places that we were visiting. This showed me how interesting the Bible can be and has greatly increased my appetite for the Word of God. Also, it gave my friends and I the opportunity to form kingdom friendships. The outdoor worship was amazing because the anointing was very strong and it’s really cool how the same God that was with the early Christians, is with us! Marcus Lim, Extreme DG Amidst the beautiful landscapes, the sheer amount of snow that we were blessed with, and the experience of being constantly mistaken for Koreans, this trip was certainly one in which I personally encountered my Daddy God. One of the highlights of the trip was our final night in Troas. During worship, we were individually anointed for the new season ahead of us. As we continued to worship, I fell on my knees for the first time. I felt like the Lord was telling me that He loved me, and to just let Him love me. I believe that He will continue to reveal His love to me even more this year, and truly, His love is sweeter than wine.
Vania Tan, Eudora DG In Turkey, I got to know so much more about how the early Christians lived. Their lives were full of fear and every day was another day of running, hiding and carrying the gospel across borders. We are so blessed to be able to enjoy the gospel today without persecution. The Turkey trip has given me a revelation and a drive to spread the gospel even more than before. Maybe it takes a trip like this — being able to see the living conditions and the environment that they were in — to understand how precious the gospel is. Grace Jin, ElpisEsme DG Through the Turkey Trip, I learnt so much about persecution in the early church and how Paul always stood up for the message of grace despite what others said. It made me realise what the gospel is all about. Paul went through persecution and hardship and yet still rejoiced in the Lord. We are so blessed that we do not need to experience this. I truly understand why we shouldn’t remain silent and should speak up for the gospel of grace. Rachel Pang, EchoEsprit DG Daddy God’s presence was so tangible during this trip. There were magnificent moments, like when we had an anointed time of praise and worship at Cappadocia, experiencing snow, seeing a full rainbow and just simply being in God’s presence. When I saw the symbol “h” (hei, “grace” in Hebrew) in the clouds, I felt like God was telling us, “Hey, My grace is shining on you,” especially since the trip was called ‘In The Footsteps of Grace’. I believe all of us came back with a fresh revelation of grace and we’re not going to be silent about it!
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THE
POWER OF PRAISE [TEXT: SIM WEI XUAN]
EVEN AS WE LOOK BACK AT OUR VERY FIRST UP SERVICE OF THE YEAR, WE TAKE SOME TIME TO REFLECT ON THE MEANING OF PRAISE AND WORSHIP. Why do we praise? We praise because we are touched by the love of Christ. We sing because we have been set free. We jump because we are excited about the goodness of God. And all these we did when we were at The Zone’s first Unlimited Praise (UP) service of the year on 23 January – and at The Star Performing Arts Centre no less! What a night of worshipping our Lord Jesus together as one Zone family at our new home. The Benjamin Generation, lifting our praises UP to the heavens!
There was such an amazing presence of the Lord at the service. Even in a whole auditorium full of people, as long as I fixed my eyes on the Lord in worship, it felt like the only people in the room that night were the Lord and I. This is how I imagined it to be whenever David sang to the Lord while he tended to his sheep. The act of worship is an encounter with the God who
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made us, who called us from our mothers’ wombs, who loved us so much He gave up His Son for us. It is a healing balm for our souls. How many times have we walked into a service carrying our disappointments and hurts, only to have them fall away as we enter a time of praise and worship? How many times have we closed our eyes during worship and felt the love of God envelop us in a warm embrace?
I have always believed that as much as we are singing our praises to God, we are singing the words back to ourselves. Words of favour and grace and declarations of victory and freedom. Songs of life that minister to our souls even as we sing to the One who first loved us. Praise, as much as it is our offering to God, is a gift from Him to us that does wonders for our souls. Not only that, it will, as Pastor Prince said of this year, open doors that no man can shut, and close doors that no man can open.
This is the year of the Key of David. This is the year where we will see the manifestation of God’s promised goodness. This is the year where we will walk through the doors He is opening and receive our breakthroughs. This is the year, of prayer and praise!
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SCENE @THE ZONE #48
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#50
EVENTS LISTING APR/MAY/JUN
SERVICES
EVENTS
DARE
DARE & ARROW 17–21 JUNE 2013 LEGACY CAMP 2013
7, 14, 21, 28 APR 2013 (SUN) 5, 12, 19, 26 MAY 2013 (SUN) 2, 9, 16, 23 JUN 2013 (SUN) TIME: 11.30AM VENUE: SHINE AUDITORIUM ARROW & GENREV: 13 APR 2013 (SAT) ARROW: 2PM GENREV: 5PM VENUE: SHINE AUDITORIUM 27 APR 2013 (SAT) ARROW: 2PM GENREV: 5PM VENUE: SHINE AUDITORIUM 11 MAY 2013 (SAT) ARROW: 2PM GENREV: 5PM VENUE: SHINE AUDITORIUM 25 MAY 2013 (SAT) ARROW: 2PM GENREV: 5PM VENUE: SHINE AUDITORIUM 8 JUN 2013 (SAT) ARROW: 2PM GENREV: 5PM VENUE: SHINE AUDITORIUM
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DARE GROUP & CARE GROUP LISTING DARE
LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL LEVEL
ARROW
JC
POLY
1 2 3 4
ANNA CHENG ANNA CHENG JIOW HEE JHUN ELIZABETH WEI
ANNA.CHENG@NEWCREATION.ORG.SG ANNA.CHENG@NEWCREATION.ORG.SG JIOW.HEEJHUN@NEWCREATION.ORG.SG ELIZABETH.WEI@NEWCREATION.ORG.SG
NORTH A (AJC, IJC, YJC) NORTH B (NYJC, RI, SRJC, SJI INT’L) EAST A (VJC, TPJC) EAST B (MJC, TJC, DUNMAN HIGH) SOUTH (CJC, SAJC, SOTA) WEST A (ACS(I), ACJC,ACS INT’L, ST. FRANCIS) WEST B (NUS HIGH, JJC, PJC, MI, RV HIGH) WEST C (HCJC, HC INTERNATIONAL, NJC)
ALENA LOW SHERRY LUM ABEL KHOO ABEL KHOO ESTHER TEO JANAN LONG GERMAINE LOO POON YONG DE
LOW.ALENA@GMAIL.COM LUM.SHERRY@GMAIL.COM KHOO.ABEL@GMAIL.COM KHOO.ABEL@GMAIL.COM ESTHER.TEOWL@GMAIL.COM JANAN.LONG@GMAIL.COM LOO.GERMAINE@GMAIL.COM POON.YONGDE@GMAIL.COM
NP A (FMS) NP B (BUSINESS & ACCOUNTANCY, IT) / SHATEC NP C (HMS, SOE, SDE, SIS) NP D (LSCT/ HS) NYP A (SEG, SHS, SCL) NYP B (SIDM, SDN, SBM, SIT) RP A (SOH, SBC, STA, SIT) RP B (SHL, SEG, SAS) SP A (ABE, EEE, MAE) SP B (CLS, CASS, SD, SMA) SP C (DMIT, SB) TP A (IT, BUSINESS, APPLIED SCIENCE, HUMANITIES, SOCIAL SCIENCES)/PRIVATE DIPLOMAS TP B (DESIGN, ENGINEERING)/LA SALLE NAFA ITE COLLEGE (CENTRAL, EAST, WEST)
ARIEL LIM BENJAMIN CHONG JOLENE KANG BRODERICK SIM DEBRA NG JONATHAN ONG BRIDGET KANG JOSHUA FOO EDMUND LIM EVELYN TAN ELIZABETH CHOY SNG SWEE MIN
ARIELTABITHA.LIM@GMAIL.COM BENJAMIN.CHONGWM@GMAIL.COM KANG.JOLENE@GMAIL.COM BRODERICK.SIMBX@GMAIL.COM NGDEBRA.PEIRONG@GMAIL.COM JONATHAN.ONGWEIMIN@GMAIL.COM KANG.BRIDGET@GMAIL.COM FOO.JOSHUADANIEL@GMAIL.COM EDMUND.LIMJT@GMAIL.COM EVELYN.TANYJ@GMAIL.COM ELIZABETH.CHOYSE@GMAIL.COM SNG.SWEEMIN@GMAIL.COM
RUTH LIM JODIE KOH IAN HAN
LIM.RUTHJE@GMAIL.COM KOH.JODIE@GMAIL.COM IAN.HANWH@GMAIL.COM
PRIVATE/ OVERSEAS ARTS, ACCOUNTANCY, FINANCE, HOSPITALITY PRIVATE/ OVERSEAS SCIENCE, BUSINESS MANAGEMENT NTU BUSINESS NTU ARTS NTU ENGINEERING NIE & NTU SCIENCE SMU (OTHERS) SMU BUSINESS SIM RMIT SIM OTHERS NUS ARTS (ECONS, E LIT, E LANG, EURO, GEOGRAPHY, HISTORY) NUS ARTS (PSYCHOLOGY, SOCIAL WORK) NUS ARTS (OTHERS) & SDE NUS BUSINESS, LAW NUS ENGINEERING NUS LIFE SCI, MEDICINE, DENTISTRY NUS SCIENCE (PR)/COMPUTING NUS SCIENCE (OTHERS)
JARED LEO
JARED.LEO@GMAIL.COM
KEVIN KWEE DANNY NEO DOROTHY NG DANNY NEO LINDSAY KOH JOAB WONG NICK SIM POON HUI TING POON HUI TING JOMAINE TANG
KWEE.KEVINKW@GMAIL.COM DANNY.JOASH.NEO@GMAIL.COM DOROTHYNG.GS@GMAIL.COM DANNY.JOASH.NEO@GMAIL.COM KOH.LINDSAY@GMAIL.COM JOAB.WONG@GMAIL.COM NICK.SIMJJ@GMAIL.COM HUITING.POON@GMAIL.COM HUITING.POON@GMAIL.COM TANG.JOMAINE@GMAIL.COM
MERVYN KHOO RAYMOND CHUA JOTHAM TEO MATTHIAS LIM KEITH TAN CHADIN A. CALEB CHAN
KHOO.MERVYN@GMAIL.COM CHUA.RAYMONDCH@GMAIL.COM JOTHAM.TEO@GMAIL.COM LIM.MATTHIAS@GMAIL.COM TAN.DIHAOKEITH@GMAIL.COM CHADIN.ANUWATTANAPORN@GMAIL.COM CALEBCHANNGAIHON@GMAIL.COM
NORTH
BISHAN STREET BISHAN STREET BRADDELL HILL CHOA CHU KANG YISHUN STREET
LAUREN TEO HARVILLE TAN PATRICK TAY KELVIN CHAN JACLYN HO
LAUREN.TEOLT@GMAIL.COM HARVILLE.TAN@GMAIL.COM PATRICKCL.TAY@GMAIL.COM KELVIN.CHANJY@GMAIL.COM JACLYN.HOKMUN@GMAIL.COM
EAST
ALJUNIED CRESCENT (BLK 101) BEDOK SOUTH AVENUE 3 (BEDOK COURT) ROSEBURN AVENUE WINDY HEIGHTS TANAH MERAH TAMPINES STREET 81 (BLK 897) PASIR RIS STREET 51 (BLK 569)
LAW SULEEN GARY LIM SAMUEL QUEK ANDY FENG RAYMOND AW TIMOTHY ANG JOHN SU
SULEEN.LAW@GMAIL.COM LIM.GARYYS@GMAIL.COM QUEK.SAMUELTS@GMAIL.COM ANDY.FENGJM@GMAIL.COM RAYMOND.AW.JW@GMAIL.COM ANG.TIMOTHYRG@GMAIL.COM SU.JOHNSC@GMAIL.COM
WEST
BALMEG HILL (THE PEAK @ BALMEG) JURONG WEST STREET 64 (BLK 684B) 29 WEST COAST RISE (MONTEREY PARK) JURONG EAST AVENUE 1 (BLK 340) MEI LING STREET (BLK 161)
TAN PEI LING RAY TEO RUTH ZHENG TO JIAWEI ARTHUR LEONG
PEILING.TANPL@GMAIL.COM RAY.TEO@GMAIL.COM RUTH.ZHENGML@GMAIL.COM JIAWEI.TO@GMAIL.COM ARTHUR.LEONG@GMAIL.COM
CENTRAL
DELTA AVENUE (BLK 1) KIM SENG ROAD (MIRAGE TOWER)
JULIAN YANG PRISCILLA YU
YANG.JULIANTW@GMAIL.COM PRISCILLA.YU.MY@GMAIL.COM
NORTH EAST
BRAEMAR DRIVE (SERANGOON GARDENS) LORONG AH SOO (BLK 132)
MARK CHONG DENISE NG
MARK.CHONGWP@GMAIL.COM NG.DENISECL@GMAIL.COM
VARSITY
GENREV
SECONDARY SECONDARY SECONDARY SECONDARY
1 2 3 4
STUDENTS STUDENTS STUDENTS & 5 STUDENTS
23 (BLK 218) 12 (BLK 128) (BRADDELL VIEW) CRESCENT (BLK 665) 61 (BLK 633)
LISTING CORRECT AT TIME OF PRINTING.
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