methodist message: august 2013 issue

METHODIST MESSAGE, AuGuST 2013

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The Methodist Church in Singapore

Vol 115 No 8 August 2013 ISSN 0129-6868 MCI (P) 172/02/2013 www.methodistmessage.com

IN JUNE, Singapore was engulfed by dense haze with the highest Pollution Standards Index (PSI) reading since 1997. This haze, according to reports, was caused by illegal burning of forests and the traditional slash-and-burn methods used by farmers in Indonesia to clear the land for cultivation.

For almost everyone in Singapore, the haze was a dominant topic of conversation, with many quarters expressing indignation and condemnation of the cause of the haze. Questions were asked – how could this be allowed to happen again? Couldn’t the authorities do something to prevent it?

This was a trying period, but nonetheless, certain bright spots emerged. Some Singaporeans, on their own initiative, started to distribute masks to workers and the poor who were exposed to the elements. A small group of Christians went to the places frequented by foreign workers to distribute masks and water.

At the same time, they tried to get churches to open up their premises as temporary sanctuaries for those who needed shelter from the haze. While the churches were not able to accede to the requests due to various reasons, this initiative took place just before the Singapore government announced measures to subsidise treatment to those in need of medical care, and made masks available to the poor as well.

As I write this reflection, the PSI reading has dropped to a healthier level – a result of a change in wind direction and a few heavy downpours. However, there are still some hot-spots in Sumatra, and with the dry season in July, fire can easily be re-ignited that could bring back the haze.

How do we as Christians respond to what is becoming a regular environmental hazard?

Firstly, as stewards of God’s creation, we should care for the world and speak against irresponsible destruction of natural resources. In that sense, we should not support nor should we condone companies that use destructive methods to save money and increase profit margins, at the expense of causing greater damage to the environment, killing off wild animals and inflicting harm to human health.

Secondly, instead of over-relying on the slash-and-burn method, practical assistance could be provided through inter-government cooperation, Non-Governmental Organisations, corporations and institutions to develop practical alternatives that are safer and more environmentally acceptable for farmers to clear and cultivate their land.

Thirdly, as believers of persistent human sin, the perennial presence of haze is a warning against supporting any plan to build a nuclear power station in the region.

Hazardous

See 7

Inside this issue:

2 National Day Thanksgiving Service

Join us on Aug 15 to share God’s heart for Singapore

4 Bishop Emeritus Solomon writes

Are you a crocodile, or sheep?

7 No time for God? Freshman shares

thoughts on entering University

8 Singapore Mission School in Laos

Invitation by MMS to raise educational standards

10 MethodistWalk 2013 Organised by the

Methodist Schools’ Foundation to benefit Methodist Schools

12 Holy Covenant Methodist Church

Ministry to Mandarin-speaking nursing students

19 Top European Prize for MGS

Girls dance their way to the top in Dance Grand Prix Europe

21 World Vision’s 30 Hour Famine Camp

Youth advocates lead fast for the poor


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“But how can my church or I get involved?”

COMING UP

Come worship and ‘Share God’s heart’ for Singapore

By Louis Tay n Pictures by National Council of Churches of Singapore

Praising God as a Body of Christ at the NDTS 2012.

National leaders, including President Tony Tan Keng Yam, joining hands in united prayer.

JOIN CHURCH LEADERS, politicians, government officials and community leaders to ‘Share God’s Heart’ for Singapore at the National Day Thanksgiving Service, as we thank God for His merciful blessings and to pray for our country’s continued peace, prosperity and stability.

Date: August 15, ThursdayTheme: Sharing God’s Heart for the CitySpeaker: The Right Rev Rennis Ponniah,

Bishop of the Diocese of Singapore, NCCS Vice President

Time: 7.45 pm (worshippers to be seated at 7.40 pm)

Venue: The Nave of St Andrew’s Cathedral, 11 St Andrew’s Road, S(178959)

First mooted by the National Council of Churches of Singapore (NCCS) in 2004, the event has been an informal platform for political leaders to meet with our church and community leaders for fellowship, worship, praise and witness as a body in Christ. The inaugural service then coincided with the swearing-in of Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong.

The Rev Dr Louis Tay is the Chairman of the Organising Committee of the National Day Thanksgiving Service 2013.

PRAY n for the event to be pleasing to God n for our national and church leaders n for our nation

2013 MARKS THE 10th year since the first “Celebrate Christmas in Singapore” (CCIS) after evangelist Rev Oh Beng Khee brought his overseas guests to see the Christmas light-up along Orchard Road, and came away with the burden that the “Christ” of Christmas had been lost amidst the commercial clutter of this festive season.

Once again, we invite Churches and the Christian community, including individuals, Christian businesses and organisations, to seize this unique opportunity to participate in CCIS 2013 and reach out to the thousands of shoppers and tourists who’ll be thronging Orchard Road.

If you’re an individual, a band, a church, a small group – and you wish to perform, help, donate – please contact us. Stages will be set up along the Orchard

Invitation to churches to “Celebrate Christmas in Singapore”

December 17–25, 2013

By Kelvin Tan

pedestrian walkway, and on December 25, a large part of Orchard Road will be closed off for the Live Christmas Concert. There’ll also be a Christmas Village set up which will tell the Christmas story.

Jesus is the ONLY reason for Christmas!

CCIS is endorsed by the Singapore Tourism Promotion Board and the Orchard Road Business Association.

Pray for the eventParTiCiPaTE• Volunteer to help organise or run the

event• Perform by yourself or as a group on

any of the three stages every night from December 17 to 23

• Join the mass carolling choir on December 24• Invite people (friends, colleagues,

classmates, relatives) to the event • Publicise the event

DoNaTE• Give to finance the event (entirely

dependent on donations)• Give Christmas gifts to needy children

through “My Christmas Wish”• Be a Friend of Christmas Is Love –

make a donation and receive updates and discounts

Call 6438-3515 or visit celebratechristmasinsingapore.org

Kelvin Tan is Chairman of the Programmes Committee in CCIS, and Vice-Chairman of the Local Church Executive Committee of Trinity Methodist Church.

National Day Thanksgiving Service

TheBishopWrites

DR wee bOON hUP

bIShOP

Tourists and pilgrims

RETURNING FROM A RETREAT with our Cambodian Methodist pastors, i pondered my now-frequent visits to Cambodia with the question: am i there as a tourist, or as a pilgrim?

Sure, i did the “touristy” things: visited the “Killing Fields” and the many markets, tried their cuisine, was amused at the “mutual respect” they showed each other amidst the chaotic traffic on the roads, and noted certain peculiarities of Khmer culture.

But i did these things on the side. They were not my main focus. i realise now that there were lots of other things i could have done, and places i could have gone to, but somehow they did not seem high on my list of priorities.

all of that would be different if i were on a vacation. The hotel would be scrutinised quite meticulously. other nearby places, the modes of transport, places to eat and visit would all be arranged according to availability of time, proximity and ease of travel.

it dawned on me that i was a pilgrim to Cambodia during these visits so far. What is the difference? actually there are a few, and i want to draw lessons here for discipleship.

To start, tourists complain, but pilgrims do not. Tourists will look for the best facilities within their means.

Pilgrims accommodate themselves with modest, if not spartan, conditions, and they are ready to endure suffering.

The reason why pilgrims are willing to take the rough road is spiritual. They are not there simply

Background picture by Giuseppe Anello/Bigstock.com

for the natural scenery. Their focus is internal. Tourists go there to enjoy the sights. Pilgrims go there to be transformed in their spirit.

Tourists go to places expecting to get their money’s worth in return. Pilgrims also expect to receive something, but it is because they have given something other than money – the gift of themselves. it is spiritual returns that they look for.

Hebrews 11:13 says: “These all died in faith, not having received the promises, but having seen them afar off were assured of them, embraced them and confessed that they were

strangers and pilgrims on the earth.” (NKJV)

Most other versions use alternative words instead of “pilgrims”, like exiles (ESV), temporary residents (Holman), or strangers (NiV). an exile (translated pilgrim in NKJV) is one who comes from a foreign country to reside with the natives temporarily, like the tourist or pilgrim we have been considering.

Disciples of Christ are pilgrims, not tourists. We are prepared to have it rough. The ministry context may be tough but we choose to be there anyway.

We are seekers, not so much to find out what is there, but to seek how God works out His will and plans in that place, through us if need

be. We see ourselves as companions of Christ on a journey, doing what is necessary to bless those we meet along the way.

This pilgrim mind-set is best summed up by Peter when he wrote in 1 Peter 2:11-12 (The Message). “Friends, this world is not your home, so don’t make yourselves cozy in it. Don’t indulge your ego at the expense of your soul. Live an exemplary life among the natives so that your actions will refute their prejudices. Then they’ll be won over to God’s side and be there to join in the celebration when He arrives.”

Pilgrims go to be transformed in their spirit and seek how God works out His

will and plans in that place.

MeThODIST MeSSAGe, AUGUST 2013

33bIShOP’S MeSSAGe


4 hOMe4

SINGAPORE HAS about ten resident crocodiles in the north-west, according to recent media reports. There are more in a crocodile farm and the zoo.

Crocodiles are cold-blooded reptiles; having a very low metabolism rate, they do not need to maintain a body temperature within a narrow range to survive. They have a small brain – again freeing them from having to sustain a steady inner temperature.

Are you a crocodile, or sheep?

By Robert Solomon

Bishop Emeritus Dr Robert Solomon was Bishop of The Methodist Church in Singapore from 2000 to 2012. Currently retired, he now keeps busy with an active itinerant ministry speaking and teaching in Singapore and overseas.

Crocodiles can go without food for a whole year; they are smart survival experts. Their body temperature is similar to the surrounding environment.

Sheep, however, are warm-blooded mammals, and need to maintain an optimum body temperature to survive. For protection, they have wool for the cold and elaborate physiological processes for excessive heat. (Like sheep, humans too have to protect themselves from hypothermia and heat strokes.)

We can learn a lesson or two from the crocodile and the sheep when relating to the world.

We learn from God’s Word that God chose us “out of the world” to make us His children (John 15:19). With considerable cost (the blood of Jesus) He takes His children out from the world, and with considerable power, He takes the world out from them.

We are reminded that though we are sent to the world, we are not of the world (John 17:14). We are not to “conform to the pattern of this world” but to be transformed by adopting the perspectives of God’s kingdom (Romans 12:2).

Jesus prayed for His disciples (John 17) – for their protection from the evil and dangerous world. He also prayed for their unity and witness so that the world might believe in Him. The Lord depicts

the world as both a jungle and a mission field. We are to be separated from the world and its ungodliness even as we are sent into it as His faithful witnesses.

But this is not easily done. In avoiding the world as godless jungle, we may huddle together and forget that the world is also a mission field. Or we can happily and naively venture

into it with missionary adventurism and end up as a colony of the world. The 18th Century Danish philosopher Soren Kierkegaard pointed out this real danger:

“Imagine a fortress, absolutely impregnable, supplied with provisions for an eternity. A new commandant comes. He gets the idea that the right thing to do is to build bridges over the ditches – in order to be able to attack the besiegers. Charming! He transformed the fortress into a village, and the enemy captured

it, naturally. So it is with Christianity. We changed the method – and the world conquered, naturally.”

Deep faithfulness to God is needed when we reach out to the lost world – otherwise our efforts and methods will become Trojan horses by which the world enters the church.

The record is not very encouraging. Alan Wolfe, in The Transformation of American Religion, observes that all forms of the American church have compromised with culture and lost the battle. Wolfe argues that “in every aspect of the religious life, American faith has met American culture – and American culture has triumphed.”

American Christianity and its many imitators may be confused about the world, having forgotten what the Bible says about the world.

Has the church become filled with worshippers who, like the crocodile, have expertly merged with the sinful world and lost their identity and witness? They have no steady life-giving inner temperature but, with reptilian instinct, reflect the moods and values of the world.

How then can a preacher feed such worldly consumerists when his task is to feed God’s sheep? Has the church itself become cold-blooded as it adopts the moral colours and lifestyles of a rapidly changing world?

JUNGLE AND FIELD In avoiding the world as godless jungle, we may huddle

together and forget that the world is also a mission field. Or we can happily and naively venture into it with missionary

adventurism and end up as a colony of the world.


5

First love and first fearI’ve got a place in the University I wanted! Hallelujah! But – oh dear!

Can I cope? Will the standard be too high for me? I am afraid…

I’ve been laid off… And when I try to get new work, they say I’m “overqualified”! Nobody wants me. What shall I do? I am afraid…

I’ve been offered a great job in a great organisation. I am ecstatic, but... Can I cope with the demands and expectations? Will I last? I am afraid…

5PReSIDeNT’S MeSSAGe

Says The CAC

PresidentChONG ChIN ChUNG

ReV DRTHE PASSAGE IN Luke 10:1-20 recounts Jesus Christ pointing out to His disciples the great harvest and the lack of workers, and His sending of 72 disciples to spread the good news about the heavenly kingdom.

When they returned they joyfully reported to Him, “Lord, even the demons submit to us in Your name!” Jesus responded: “Do not rejoice that the spirits submit to you, but rejoice that your names are written in heaven.”

It is certainly a most joyful and satisfying experience when we accomplish the work that the Lord assigns to us. We will also be very eager in presenting our report, to share and give thanks.

But Jesus reminded His disciples not to rejoice only because of the work or results; the tasks may not always be needed, and we may not be able to sustain our performance indefinitely. When there is no longer any ministry for us to serve in, have we then no reason to rejoice? Jesus wanted His disciples to remember that they were to rejoice because their names were written in heaven.

None of the names of the 72 disciples were mentioned in Luke’s gospel. Although we do not know who they were,

‘But rejoice that your names are written in heaven!’

we are certain, as Jesus said, that their names were already registered in heaven.

There are many in church who serve diligently in the Lord’s ministry. They have remained steadfast and faithful in their service despite many obstacles.

What they undertake may be behind-the-scenes tasks or work of undefined nature; their names may not be registered in the news bulletins or official records of the church, and they may not be remembered thereafter.

There are also those who served in various official capacities of different ministries in church during their younger days but are no longer serving now because of health or age reasons, or because they have relocated. As time passes, these may also be forgotten.

The words of Jesus are very precious to us. We are not to be joyful only for our participation in His work and accomplishing it. God’s approval of our service does not depend on its quantity or length, but on how faithful we are in serving.

A retired lay leader once lamented to me with a sigh, “I’m old and can no longer serve in church the way I used to. No one remembers people like us anymore.” No. It is not so.

Remember what Jesus said, “Rejoice that your names are written in heaven!”

The Rev Dr Chong Chin Chung is the President of the Chinese Annual Conference.


6 YOU & YOUR FAMILY

I wAS PHySICALLy and emotionally spent one late evening after a long day that included two difficult counselling cases, both of which had much in common.

Both involved women who had been unfaithful, and had been found out by their husbands. In both instances, neither had any intention to leave their spouses and children. In fact, they had been intent on carrying on with their affairs for as long as possible. One woman had been in the affair for 15 years before it was discovered.

In both cases too, the husbands were willing to stay on although they were in a state of emotional upheaval.

Before readers jump to the conclusion that we are facing a tide of adulterous women, let me say that just a week earlier, “the shoe was on the other foot”. I had met with a husband who had been caught cheating – when confronted, he tried his best to hide the truth, but he too had intended carrying on having both women in his life for as long as possible.

For the individuals to think that they could carry on this way seems to defy all reason. They are intelligent individuals and took all necessary steps to hide their actions. Two of the three spouses even felt that their marriages were doing well.

But there are some cheating spouses who do not care if they are caught. In some situations, they even want to be found out, to draw attention to the dire state of their marriages. At times, it is a way to force their spouses to release them from an unhappy union. However, this was clearly not the case in the cases I mentioned at the start of this article.

These two cases led me to reflect more on the topic of deceit and dishonesty. When deceit sets in, it can grow and consume a person.

Most of us struggle when we start to lie; we are fearful that we will be found out, and we feel guilty. But often, once you’ve told your first lie, you end up telling a few more to cover it. The first lie stubbornly clings to us, and as we tell more lies, we grow accustomed to it, and even become quite proficient at lying.

We also begin to develop tactics to hide our deception. Adulterers would hide expense accounts, and suddenly place password protection on their mobile phones and Internet accounts. The deception grows, and the lies drive an invisible

By Benny Bong

wedge between the deceiver and the person being lied to. It begins to eat away at the trust and bond in that relationship, and ultimately, both parties are hurt.

The person who is lying may begin to feel bold and arrogant. As he or she gets away each time with not telling the truth, the liar begins to feel bolder and even believes the lies. There is a sense of being invulnerable, and as a result, the liar begins to take greater risks, which ultimately can backfire and the deception is uncovered.

Once found out, how does one go about making amends and repairing the relationship? It begins with a commitment to speaking the truth. Invariably, the truth will hurt, but it is a pain that comes before the healing. Understandably, some clients wrestle with not wanting to tell all. Some are afraid that the pain of the truth may be too much for the other.

That is why many clients first consult their pastor or a counsellor. But neither the pastor nor counsellor can pronounce absolution. Forgiveness can only be pronounced by those whom you have hurt. As family and close friends of the couple, we can help through lending moral and non-judgmental support as the truth is revealed.

Undoubtedly, it is always better not to lie and thereby avoid that slippery slope to more lies. I hope that all of us will never become accustomed to lying.

The slippery slope of


THIS MONTH, as I begin my four years of university life, I am both excited, and yet fearful of the culture I am about to be immersed in. The challenge of university is an enticing one, but there is the innate fear of failure. After all, the mentality in the Singapore education system is: “Either you make it, or you don’t.” The pressure is immense.

Yet, the question that resonates within me the most is one regarding my faith: How can I keep following Christ without succumbing to conformism, to peer pressure, or to the demands of university education?

In the recent Trackers 2013 programme, organised by the youth wing of Trinity Annual Conference, I was placed in an environment where I experienced God daily. This was an amazing experience which I desire as a constant feature of my life.

However, can I really keep seeking God so consistently, so consciously each day, especially with the expectations of university life?

First, there’s the rat race that everyone is in, but no one wants to acknowledge. In Singapore, everyone is paranoid about their grades. Those who say otherwise are either enlightened, crazy or a combination of both.

While I agree with the Minister for National Development, Mr Khaw Boon Wan, that a degree is second in value to character and attitude, the ugly truth is that to survive in the Singapore workplace, you need a degree. Not only that, you need to graduate with first-class honours. At least, that is what society signals to us. Little wonder that everyone puts so much unhealthy emphasis on pursuing that piece of paper.

The next hurdle is student life, or more specifically, peer influence. God created humans as social beings,

needing interaction and communication with other humans. The danger is in prioritising this interaction over our relationship with God.

You may meet friends who disapprove of any mention of religion, others whose values may clash with the teachings of Jesus, and even some who are simply indifferent. The point is, your faith will be challenged.

As a Christian, you will be scrutinised in the way you speak, the way you act. You will be pressured to go with the flow, to do what everyone else is doing in order to get approval and be accepted. Can you

truly rise above and do

what is right and godly, rather than what is popular?

Lastly, time is in short supply for university students. It is very easy to get caught up in university life and “not have enough time for God”. But there is no shortcut to cultivating a relationship with God – it requires time and effort. For those of us with poor time management, this is a very real threat to our Christian walk.

So how do I intend to be the exception, to excel in university life and still actively seek God?

The cliché but effective solution is to manage time well. As much as I hate planning my time, I admit that it will help me build my relationship with God and also set aside time to serve the needy. This will allow me to spend time

with God while still doing well in university and having a social life.

Always put God first, and never take your eyes off Jesus. Remember: God may have called us to be students but He first called us to be His children, through the

sacrifice of Jesus. Hence, nothing should be of a higher priority than God.

In Jeremiah, it is stated that God has plans for us, to give us a hope and a future. Hence, trust God. Trust that the Creator knows what is best for you. Trust that the Father will only give the best to His children.

Hebrews 12 says: “And let us run with perseverance the race marked out

for us, fixing our eyes on Jesus, the pioneer and perfecter of faith.”

This is the race that God has called us to run, a marathon through the Singapore education system. I intend to finish this race while glorifying God. What about you?

7YOUTh

Thanks, Benjamin, for sharing your reflections with us in response to our call to readers to contribute to MM. Email your submissions

to [email protected] and we’ll publish if appropriate!

No time for God?By Benjamin Soh


8 MISSIONS8

Join us to raise educational standards in Laos

By Quek Koh Eng

A LANDLOCKED, mountainous country with less than five per cent of its land suitable for subsistence agriculture, Laos today has gradually opened up to the world since the 1990s. Economic and business reforms were implemented in 2005 to liberalise its domestic markets and a stock market in capital city Vientiane was opened in 2011.

Living standards are still low, as many people living outside the capital do not have access to electricity or basic facilities.

Laos continues to rely

Building strong educational foundations at the Singapore Mission School in Laos. – Picture courtesy of SMS Laos

heavily on foreign aid and investment, especially from Vietnam, China and Japan. On the ground, there is clearly a great need for education and training, and the setting up of good schools to equip Laotians to lead the country along its path to development.

A Singapore husband-and-wife team, Mr Yeow Kok Liang and Mrs Lesley Yeow, have been in Laos since January 2005 when they started the INSPIRE Centre for Higher Development to teach English to adults, mainly from companies and organisations. The centre has also been engaged by the Embassy of Singapore to train Lao government officials.

Encouraged by their Lao students and Singaporean friends, the couple went on to start the Singapore Mission School in Laos, or SMS Laos for short, in September 2010.

Catering mainly to the Lao people, the curriculum is bilingual, though English is the main medium of instruction, and is being modelled after the curriculum in Singapore mission schools. Students in SMS Laos can go from Kindergarten through to Primary School, and eventually to Secondary and High School.

DONATE n your time, talents and resources to the Singapore Mission School in Laos. Write to Col (Retd) Quek Koh Eng at [email protected]

Presently, 19 children are enrolled in Kindergarten to Primary Two classes at the full-day school. The school is currently staffed with three to four Lao teachers, with support from several volunteers.

While the school has successfully obtained its foreign investment licence in September 2011, the education licence has not been granted yet. This is because the current building is unsuitable and there is a shortage of qualified Lao teachers at the school.

To address this, approval is being sought to build an additional block of classrooms

where the school garden is right now, in order to meet the Education Ministry’s requirements. This will cost US$130,000 (S$166,000) and will be critical to obtaining the licence.

There is also the issue of hiring more teachers, particularly to enable the school to give more attention to existing students, some of whom have special needs, and to open a Primary Three class.

For the Methodist Missions Society (MMS), partnering the SMS Laos is aligned with our mission to see the love of the Lord Jesus Christ become a reality amongst the people of Laos. This is indeed the answer to our prayers to reach out to the Lao people in a meaningful and sustainable way.

MMS would like to invite Methodist churches, sponsors and the community in Singapore to participate in this mission to provide a complete and holistic education of international standard to build up the Lao people.

Would you join us to build a vibrant mission school in Laos? Through your support, we will be able to provide resources, missionary teachers, volunteers, sponsorships and scholarships for students. We will also help in the school governing board, as well as the development, construction and operations of the eventual students’ hostel and education hub.* Information on developments in Laos was drawn from a report in a November 2012 country report in BBC News Online.

Col (Retd) Quek Koh Eng is an Area Director and Director of Operations in the Methodist Missions Society.

Nam Song River in Vang Vieng, Laos. – Picture by Galyna Andrushko/Bigstock.com

Uniting Church in Sweden visits the Methodist Centre

‘Valkömmen Equmeniakyrkan!’MRS JOSEFINE ARENIUS, a member of “Equmeniakyrkan” or the Uniting Church in Sweden, shared that “Europeans sometimes have this mind-set that we were the ones who sent missionaries and brought Christ to other nations, but we are realising that we need to learn how to do church from nations like yours.”

Mrs Arenius was part of a delegation from Equmeniakyrkan visiting Singapore recently to attend the 16th Baptist Youth World Conference at Suntec Convention Centre. During their visit, they took the opportunity to spend an afternoon at the Methodist Centre where they were briefed by our various Methodist agencies – the Methodist Archives, Methodist Welfare Services, Methodist Missions Society, and the General Conference Women’s Society of Christian Service – and toured Barker Road Methodist Church.

Equmeniakyrkan was formed in June 2011 with the merger of three Swedish Churches: the Baptist Union, the United Methodist Church and the Mission Covenant Church. Their new name captures a spirit of ecumenism that makes such cooperation possible, as well as the “EQ” or emotional competence that they hope to build in the Church by doing so.

Seven of the 11 visitors were aged 16 to 25 years old, and they represent part of the strong Equmenia Youth movement in Sweden which is active in evangelism and diaconal work. While Equmeniakyrkan (we were told it’s pronounced: “A-que-men-nia-shir-ken”) is focused on building ecumenical ties, they are open to attending events organised by other denominations – for

Possibly the first Swedish delegation to visit the Methodist Centre, Equmeniakyrkan members are pictured here with representatives of the

Methodist Church in Singapore. Mr Johan Arenius is standing, seventh from the left, and his wife Josefine is wearing a polka-dotted dress.

– Picture by Christina Stanley.

example the Baptist conference which they were here for.Mr Johan Arenius, team leader and Assistant to the Church

Leader of Equmeniakyrkan, explains: “We think that denominational networks are great, and we don’t want to lose them. Events like these are great for making new friends from all over the world.”

During their visit to the Methodist Centre, they also found out more about our Methodist heritage in Singapore, as well as our Church’s work among youths, in missions and social outreach. Mrs Arenius said: “In Sweden, the government takes care of many things, so the churches are becoming passive about outreach.”

Swedish or Singaporean, one thing is clear: We have much to learn from one another in this global Body of Christ.


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10 weLFARe SeRVICeS

yOU’RE NEVER TOO OLD to learn new technology – and the seniors at the Wesley Seniors’ Activity Centre (WSAC) are doing just that as they rave about a popular iPad game app that allows them to shape, fire, add patterns, colour and even auction off “pottery” to earn credits and shop for more materials!

If you thought that senior citizens are fearful of “youngsters’ toys” and tech gadgets, think again. “Let’s Create! Pottery” is a virtual pottery game that’s even more popular than Fruit Ninja and the seniors have taken very well to it.

Ms Kwok Sian Yee, Head of WSAC, said: “It’s important that our seniors don’t lose touch. That’s why we’ve taken pains to get them interested in technology. So when the next cohort of seniors come and join us, we’ll be ready for them as they would have been part of the present workforce and hence, more IT-savvy.”

The WSAC was set up in 2010 and is a collaboration between Methodist Welfare Services and Wesley Methodist Church. Its mission is to ensure and improve the welfare of seniors who are at risk of social isolation in the Kelantan estate.

In October 2012, funding was made available from the Infocomm Development Authority (IDA) of Singapore to turn WSAC into a Silver Infocomm Hotspot. Three iPads were first purchased, and another three iPad Minis a year later.

With an average of around 40 seniors coming to the centre every day, membership has grown by about 10 per cent since last year. To ensure a steady stream of young volunteers to interact with our seniors on a regular basis, WSAC has gone on to forge long-term partnerships with Hwa Chong High School, Singapore Management University, National University of Singapore, Institute of Technical Education, and Ngee Ann Polytechnic.

In fact, youths from Hwa Chong High School and Trackers interns from the Trinity Annual Conference Youth Ministries have been round to teach our seniors the finer points in using iPads for entertainment and photography. Ms Kwok added that with the youths guiding them, the seniors easily overcame their initial wariness of new technology.

Currently about 15 per cent of the seniors who come in use the iPads. However, WSAC Programme Executive Willy Ho is confident that the “tech influence” will grow – he said: “We expect that the savvier seniors will soon get round to teaching their peers!”

The WSAC seniors will also be participating in a special iPad photography exhibition to be held at the nearby Kampong Glam Community Centre during its National Day celebrations on August 3.

Many of the seniors have been “snapping away” with their iPads in the hope that their photos would be selected for the exhibition. The excitement over this new form of creative expression

iSeniors at WSAC!By Adeline Huang

10

is palpable. It’s not often that you hear a 78-year-old exclaim: “I forbade my grandson from touching my iPad!” Madam Tey was complaining vehemently in Mandarin that her grandson had accidentally deleted the photos she took when he fiddled with it.

What next for WSAC? There are plans to install an X-Box Kinect to allow for more interactive games. There’s certainly no age limit when it comes to having fun – but the jury is out on whether the virtual pottery game beats Fruit Ninja. Ms Kwok, for one, is a fan of the latter.

“I love Fruit Ninja. You can’t take my Fruit Ninja away from me!” she laughs.

WSaC Programmes include:• Daily Morning Exercise, with monthly “Walk for

Health” excursions – WSAC recently introduced Zumba Gold as an addition to this programme. Up to 50 seniors will gather thrice a week to exercise together for 30 minutes or more.

• Choir group and Karaoke – around 15 singing enthusiasts gather twice a week to sing and learn singing skills from a professional instructor.

• Morning Tea - Up to 30 seniors gather to socialise on an average of three days a week over coffee, tea, Milo, steamed buns, biscuits or bread with kaya.

• Daily rummikub games – Resembling mah-jong and dominoes, Rummikub is a mind-boggling numerical table-top game for four persons. It is enjoying growing popularity at WSAC daily.

WSaC is located at Blk 25 Jalan Berseh #01-142 (9.30 am to 5 pm, Monday to Friday). Tel: 6298-0194 or 6298-0195

Adeline Huang is an Executive (Communications and Fundraising) at Methodist Welfare Services.

11

ONE OF THE MOST INFLUENTIAL heterodox movements that exploded onto the scene in Asia Minor in the second century is Montanism. Named after its founder Montanus, a former pagan priest and recent convert to Christianity, this heresy is also known to its adherents as the New Revelation and the New Prophecy.

In his village of Phygia Mysia (north-western part of modern Turkey), Montanus was suddenly seized with ecstasy and began to prophesy, uttering wild declarations that were radically at odds with the teachings of the Catholic Church. He genuinely believed that the Church of his day was spiritually dead, and sought to revive it to its former glory.

While some clearly rejected his pronouncements as heretical, others were deeply impressed by his uncompromising asceticism and his sharp critique of the moral failures of the Church. Two prophetesses, Priscilla and Maximilla, joined Montanus, and together they were able to exert an influence over members of the Church, even as the movement they started spread across Asia Minor.

Most of the information we have about Montanus and his teachings came from the writings of the Fathers of the Church and Eusebius, a fourth century Church historian. This is because, unlike the Gnostics, Montanus and his followers did not leave behind a library of their works.

From these sources, it is quite clear that Montanus and his followers were in many ways quite orthodox in their theology. They accepted the full canon of Scriptures, and the Trinitarian faith of the Church.

But they added to the Bible and the Rule of Faith their own prophecies that were deemed to be equally authoritative because they were allegedly inspired either by Christ or the Holy Spirit. In addition, Montanus accused the leaders of the Church of his day of excessive intellectualism and of quenching the Spirit by imprisoning Him in their rational interpretation of the Bible.

Montanism was therefore a charismatic movement that emphasised the Spirit’s gifts and His extraordinary work in the community: miracles, healing, prophesy, etc. But above all, it was a prophetic movement (hence the name “New Prophecy”) that claimed to have special insights into the divine plan for the future of the world.

Before long, the Montanists began to make

heretical and outlandish claims about themselves

and their special authority. Montanus repeatedly claimed to be the “Mouthpiece of the Holy Spirit”, who

alone was able to provide authoritative guidance to the Church. At one point, he even made this declaration

to his admiring followers: “I am the Lord God, born among men. I am neither an angel nor a priest. I am God, the Father, come to you.”

His prophetesses followed suit. Maximilla declared that she is “word, spirit and power” and claimed to possess the ability to control the minds and behaviour of her followers. And Priscilla claimed to have slept with Christ who told her that Pepuza would be the site for the heavenly Jerusalem.

The Montanists believed that Christ would return during their lifetime. This belief provided Montanus and his followers the added incentive to embrace a rugged

asceticism as they waited eagerly for the Parousia (Christ’s second coming).

The Montanists therefore urged believers to devote their lives to prayer and fasting, and to be

willing to suffer and even die for their faith. Their emphasis on the rigours of the spiritual life and their willingness to courageously embrace martyrdom deeply impressed one of Latin Christianity’s most illustrious theologians, Tertullian, who eventually joined their ranks.

But because Montanism was also a spiritual and prophetic movement, it gradually became strongly anti-

clerical, and rejected the authority of the bishops and their claim to apostolic succession. It was a movement

that was at once heretical and divisive, threatening to split the infant Church with its corrosive

teachings. What lessons can the modern Church

learn from the ancient Montanist heresy? The historian of Christian thought, Roger Olson, has this to say: “Wherever and

whenever prophesy is elevated in theory or practice alongside or higher than Scripture,

Montanism rears its head. Like Gnosticism, Montanism challenged the early church and

challenges the church in modern times to think and respond theologically in order that Christianity may

not become anything and everything and thus nothing in particular.”

Background picture by Terry Evans/Bigstock.com

MontanismBy Roland Chia

LeARNING FROM The heReTICS11

MeThODIST MeSSAGe, AUGUST 2013

1212METHODIST MESSAGE AuGuST 2013

CENTRESPREAD

MethodistWalk 2013

Walking to build foundations of wisdomBy Christina Stanley n Pictures by Christina Stanley and Daniel Lie

“TELL ME AND I FORGET, teach me and I remember, involve me and I learn,” goes a Chinese saying. How true. Indeed, education and the process of going to school is a journey, and like paths in a wooded forest that draw us in, every road that we choose to take leads us to new life-long learning experiences.

For many among the more than 3,000 young children, teenagers, youths and adults who participated in the sixth MethodistWalk on July 6, Saturday, it was a walk for charity as well as a walk of unity in one-ness of Body with all 15 of our Methodist schools and 22 of our 46 Methodist churches represented.

More significantly, this participation will contribute to building stronger educational foundations for close to 23,000 students in our schools today, equipping them for a future when, as Bishop Dr Wee Boon Hup emphasised in his opening devotion, “they will choose to live wisely, avoid being foolish, keep

“And we’re off!” Participants putting their best foot forward on the Walk.

company with those who are wise and put into practice what they have learnt”.

For Ethan Mok, 17 years old and a J1 student at Anglo-Chinese Junior College, the day was one of great pride, as literally thousands walked the streets in T-shirts that carried his winning

MethodistWalk 2013 design. He said: “It feels cool and an honour

to see my design worn by all the walkers. It was great that the Methodist Schools Foundation (MSF) organised this competition – it gave everyone a sense that they’d a part to play in this event.”

Ethan’s inspiration for the design

13METHODIST MESSAGE AuGuST 2013

CENTRESPREAD

MethodistWalk 2013

Walking to build foundations of wisdomBy Christina Stanley n Pictures by Christina Stanley and Daniel Lie

Methodist Schools Foundation• Incorporated

in 1997 as the Methodist Schools’ Building Endowment Fund to help fund standard and non-standard facilities and items in Methodist schools.

• As of July 31, 2012, net assets were $17.6 million represented in a general fund and three endowment funds (which are restricted, with only the earnings disbursed)

a. Building Endowment Fund, for the building, repair and maintenance of school buildings, and to buy educational equipment and aids

b. MSF-Chen Su Lan Endowment Fund, to benefit needy students in specific Methodist schools

c. Financial Assistance Endowment Fund, for needy students from any Methodist school who require financial assistance

• Total disbursed so far exceeds $8 million

• Every dollar raised by each Methodist school for the MethodistWalk goes back to the respective schools.

• MSF has renewed its IPC status under the MOE and all donations will enjoy a 2.5 times tax deduction.

• To find out how you can support through giving and volunteering, please contact

Ms Annie Chng at 6478-4808, or email [email protected]

Christina Stanley is the Editor of Methodist Message.

Ethan Mok (left) receiving his prize from Guest-of-Honour,

Education Minister Heng Swee Keat, for his winning

t-shirt design.

company with those who are wise and put into practice what they have learnt”.

For Ethan Mok, 17 years old and a J1 student at Anglo-Chinese Junior College, the day was one of great pride, as literally thousands walked the streets in T-shirts that carried his winning

MethodistWalk 2013 design. He said: “It feels cool and an honour

to see my design worn by all the walkers. It was great that the Methodist Schools Foundation (MSF) organised this competition – it gave everyone a sense that they’d a part to play in this event.”

Ethan’s inspiration for the design

came from the Bible – the triangular shapes that seem to leap from the pages of the Bible represented feet, to signify that our paths, footsteps and ways must be governed by the wisdom that we draw from the Bible and the Holy Spirit.

Mr Albert Ng, MSF Chairman, said: “We are truly appreciative of the tremendous support that we have received from the schools, churches, individuals and corporations. We have raised approximately $1.22 million from this Walk, although we are not able to confirm the final tally yet at this point.

“This fund-raising event is an excellent opportunity for both students and church members to work together for the future of our schools. The next MethodistWalk will take place in 2015, and we would like to encourage smaller churches to pool together to sponsor the seventh MethodistWalk. It is also worthwhile for individual donors to know that direct donations are entitled to tax exemption as MSF has Institution of a Public Character (IPC) status.”

If not for the haze that engulfed Singapore just weeks before the Walk, there would have been a bigger turnout. Organising Chairman Mr M. Manoharan explained: “We were actually expecting a turnout of more than 5,500 walkers.

“But with the onset of the haze and possible concerns by the Ministry of Education, we contacted every school to request that they cut down on the number of students they were deploying for the event. This was to enable us to fit everyone into the Anglo-Chinese School (Independent) auditorium where the pre-event worship service was to be held.

“If the haze had persisted on the day of the Walk, everyone would have remained within the Auditorium, and a contingency programme would have been activated. As it turned out – and we truly give thanks to the Lord – we had a clear-weather day, and I believe everyone enjoyed the fresh air during their Walk.”


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METHODIST MESSAGE, JUNE 2009PAGE 16


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METHODIST MESSAGE, JUNE 2009PAGE 16

15

Holy Covenant Methodist Church (Chinese Annual Conference)Fairfield Methodist Secondary School Auditorium, 102 Dover RoadSunday services: 9 am (English), 11 am (Mandarin), 2 pm (Hokkien)Contact: 6270-7804 or email [email protected]

AT 15, you could say that we are a relatively “young” church. Yet we have been on the move quite a bit.

We first branched out from Telok Ayer Chinese Methodist Church. From there we moved to Telok Blangah Chapel before going on to Grace Methodist Church and finally settling in our current premises at Fairfield Methodist Secondary School about 10 years ago.

We have three congregations – English, Hokkien and Mandarin. Our Mandarin service is the fastest-growing, due largely to the many China-born nationals who are serving passionately in the Grace Fellowship, which seeks to care and provide nurture for Christians, seekers and newcomers from their home country.

Our church, which sees a weekly attendance of more than 220 people, aims to lead people into God’s covenant, worshipping Him and building each other up in loving fellowship and mutual accountability, using God’s Word as our foundation and strength, and to be equipped for service as disciples of Christ.

Our mission field is the schools and universities. We are seeking to reach out to a community that includes faculty staff, graduates and post-graduates in our local universities, nursing students and nurses, IT and other professionals, particularly those from China.

One particular ministry stands out. Our ministry to Chinese nursing students started in 1999, but we had to terminate it in 2002 due to constraints in space and human resources. We restarted this ministry in 2010, reaching out to about 30 Chinese-speaking nursing students through a fortnightly small group meeting in a member’s home.

hOMe

We continue our new series of profiling local churches from our three Annual Conferences of The Methodist Church in Singapore. As we come to have a better understanding of each other’s history and ministry,

there may be opportunity to forge cross-church partnerships and collaborations.

Reaching out to Mandarin-speaking nursing students

By Alex Chng Peng Lian n Pictures by Holy Covenant Methodist church

This is through the auspices of the Singapore Nurses Christian Fellowship (SNCF) that assigns nursing students to different local churches. However, there may soon be a change to this policy, which may affect our outreach to this group.

It was amazing then that God answered our prayers for a way to overcome the challenge of space constraint and to sustain this ministry in a more meaningful way.

Sometime last year the Women’s Society of Christian Service (WSCS) of the Chinese Annual Conference (CAC) indicated that Ruth Home, a building which they manage, was available for churches to lease for Christian ministry.

After much deliberation and prayer, we seized this opportunity and entered into a Memorandum of Understanding with the WSCS to lease the premises for use as a hostel for female nursing students.

In July 2013, the Ruth Home ministry together with its hostel, worship hall and building were dedicated by our CAC President Rev Dr Chong Chin Chung in the presence of other CAC leaders and members.

Ruth Home, located at Wishart Road, about eight minutes’ walk to Telok Blangah, can accommodate up to 45

residents at subsidised rates in single or twin-sharing rooms. Funding relies on donations from church members, the CAC WSCS and the Johnny and Nancy Fund under the CAC Board of Missions.

This is my second year as Pastor-in-charge of Holy Covenant MC. I am both excited and proud to be a part of this church. It is unique, as we come together as a “covenant people” to move forward for Kingdom purposes. I am confident that our hostel outreach ministry through Ruth Home can win many souls for Christ in a practical and sustainable way. I think it will be very exciting, and I welcome Kingdom and Gospel partners to join us in this new venture and ministry.

The Rev Dr Alex Chng Peng Lian is the Pastor-in-Charge of Holy Covenant Methodist Church.

The Rev Dr Alex Chng, Pastor-in-Charge of Holy Covenant Methodist Church, leading

church members in corporate prayer.

The dedication of the Ruth Home hostel ministry was held in July this year.

SPREAD n the news about Ruth Home, especially if you know of female nursing students or nurses on the lookout for below-market-rate accommodation.

CONTACT n Ms Chen Xiaodong (Local Ministry Staff) at 9675-4715, or Mdm Zhang Hui (Part-time Ruth Home Administrator) at 9233-6695.


16


17hYMNS & SONGS

To give as God has givenBy Judith Mosomos

SOME CHURCHES celebrate Pledge Sunday this month, where members commit to giving God a portion of their income in the new financial year. Are there any hymns we can sing to reflect this spirit of joyful giving?

Here is a hymn written in 1961 by the Rev Robert L. Edwards, an American Congregational minister. Among the many hymns the Rev Edwards composed, “God Whose Giving Knows No Ending” is the most famous.

The hymn begins with a strong statement that God’s giving is endless. His grace is abundant! This is manifested in His gift of creation and our salvation through Jesus Christ, His only Son. In response, we offer our praise and thanksgiving through our song.

The second and third stanzas remind us that our gifts of skills and time are for us to use, not for ourselves but for the advancement of the kingdom of God. The hymn brings to mind Jesus’ teaching about wealth in Luke 12:13-21.

It may be interesting to compare this hymn with John Wesley’s teaching on stewardship. Wesley preached “Gain more, save more, give more!” These three principles were paramount to Wesley’s teaching on observing good stewardship. Wesley teaches that gaining and saving without going further does not make sense. He entreats us to take a step further and “give more”.

God the Creator and giver of all has placed us here on earth to be good stewards (Genesis 1:28). To Wesley, good stewardship means “employ whatever God has entrusted you with, in doing good, all possible good, in every possible kind and degree to the household of faith, to all men!”

For some congregations, it may not be a practice to sing a hymn during offertory, but I think it will be the most appropriate time to sing this hymn, especially during times when we choose to give back to God what He has abundantly given us.

God whose Giving Knows No Ending

God whose giving knows no ending,From Your rich and endless store:Nature’s wonder, Jesus’ wisdomCostly Cross, grave’s shattered door,Gifted by You, we turn to You,Offering up ourselves in praise;Thankful song shall rise forever,Gracious donor of our days.

Skills and time are ours for pressingToward the goals of Christ, Your Son:All at peace in health and freedom,Races joined the Church made one.Now direct our daily labour,Lest we strive for self alone;Born with talents, make us servants,Fit to answer at Your throne.

Treasure, too, You have entrusted,Gain through powers Your grace conferred;Ours to use for home and kindred, And to spread the Gospel Word.Open wide our hands in sharing,As we heed Christ’s ageless call,Healing, teaching, and reclaiming, Serving You by loving all.

Text: Robert L. Edwards (1961)Music: BEACH SPRING (UMH 605) or

HYFRYDOL (UMH 196 or 648)

From Page One

Hazardous HazeThe haze is a relatively “simple” problem compared to the catastrophic consequences of a nuclear power station leak or meltdown. No mask or even staying indoors will be adequate protection against radiation poisoning.

Fourthly, following the examples of small groups of volunteers who

went out to distribute masks, food and water, and who sought to find shelter for those in need of refuge, our church should have in place plans which can be easily activated to get more Christians involved in providing emergency assistance and sanctuary for people in need.

For now, let us pray for good sense to prevail, and that there will be stronger political will to find a sustainable solution to this trans-national problem, one that can

protect the natural environment, provide for the welfare of farmers and the overall well-being of the people of Singapore, Malaysia and Indonesia.

The Rev Dr Daniel Koh Kah Soon, a Methodist minister, is a full-time lecturer at Trinity Theological College. He is active in Christian social outreach, and is concerned about how we may bring our faith to bear on the social issues and challenges of our time.


19

MGS clinches overall dance championship in Europe

By Loo Ying Ern n Pictures by MG Dancers

SChOOLS

HAPPy HEARTS, fulfilled souls and a journey they would never forget – these were what 49 dancers from the Methodist Girls’ School Dance Club (MG Dancers) brought back from Barcelona, Spain on June 19 this year.

The dancers emerged overall champions in the Dance Grand Prix Europe 2013, clinching First Prize in both the Ethnic and Contemporary Dance categories. They had to compete with strong teams from Brazil, South Africa, the United Kingdom, Finland and Mexico.

Two items were presented. “Field of Promise” was performed to the song “Una Kaya” by pinipikan, with a Filipino catchphrase “UNA UNA KAYA KAYA”

A group of MG dancers doing stretching exercises in a Spanish park.

which the audience soon associated the Singapore team with. “Shango” was the second item, during which the audience sang along with the resounding “Hey Ha”.

They had planned to engage the audience – and they succeeded! Our dancers were even reluctant to leave the stage after seeing the audience smile, sing and move along to the dance rhythms.

Our girls learnt new dance styles from their peers from other countries – styles that were uniquely different and left them in awe. They made new friends and brought home many memories and photos.

Devotions were held at the hotel bar because of a lack of space, and even there, the Lord brought them through laughter and tears, and throughout the entire trip, guided them safely and gracefully. Deep reflections were shared which helped to further mould the girls as dancers and as better people.

The 10-day trip also allowed them time to see some well-known Spanish sights, including the Park Güell, Sagrada Família Basilica and the Gothic Quarter. They visited a monastery and did some community service with the children there, as well as learnt street dancing at the Paca Garcia Dance Academy.

And right through the trip, they had the reassuring company of their teachers, Mrs Nicole Phua, Ms Samantha Wee, Ms Lydia Loy and

The MG dancers performing “Shango” at the Dance Grand Prix Europe 2013.

1 Goldhill Plaza 01-25. S308899 Tel: 62537578Email: [email protected]

Web: http://bbsbooks.sg/Mon-Fri 11am-7pm Sat 11am-3pm

Ms Tsien Jiuan Jiuan, and dance instructor Mr Dan Kwoh. Well done girls! UNA UNA KAYA KAYA!

Loo Ying Ern is a Secondary Three student in Methodist Girls’ School, and a member of the MG Dancers.


2020 hOMe

COME 2016, the St. John’s Home For Elderly Persons will take its mission of sheltering and caring for the elderly to new heights – literally.

The home will be required to build a five-storey building to house its 98 residents after the land lease expires end-2015. This is to optimise land use under the new lease as the multi-storey building will be built on only a quarter of the 12,000 sq m plot of land which the home currently occupies at Wan Tho Avenue. For the past 55 years, residents have been living in 15 single-storey buildings that are sprawled across this land.

The new facility will cost a whopping $12 million which will have to be raised from donations. St John’s Home for Elderly Persons was set up in 1958 to provide shelter and care for the needy elderly who have no home or suitable accommodation, or whose close relatives are unable to look after them. It is a non-profit charity with Institute of a Public Character status, and provides live-in and day-care accommodation to residents who are reasonably well and ambulant.

St John’s is the oldest sheltered home built by Protestant churches. In 1958, a group of Methodist, Anglican and Presbyterian Christians came together to build it. The Methodist connection remains strong till today.

Methodist groups have been serving faithfully over the years as volunteers. Earlier this year in March, three members of Pentecost Methodist Church were presented with Long Service Awards by the

National Council of Social Services. One of the three volunteers, Mrs Jasmine Ee, has been visiting the home every Tuesday to organise karaoke and board games for the residents. She also finds it meaningful to visit the residents in their dormitories.

She shares: “I find it very fulfilling to visit them, because they can be so lonely. Even if I spend five to 10 minutes with them, I can leave them smiling. I’m looking for more volunteers to join me in this effort, especially reaching out to new residents who often feel sceptical and a little intimidated when they first arrive,

Mrs Jasmine Ee, a faithful Methodist volunteer, singing karaoke with a resident

at the home.

The new lease will require the home’s 15 single-storey buildings to be replaced by a multi-storey building to optimise land use.

By Grace Toh n Pictures by St. John’s Home For Elderly Persons

DONATE n to help the home raise $12 million for its new building. 2.5 times tax exemption for all donations

because they are seldom prepared mentally when their families move them here.”

Having lost both parents before the age of 22, Mrs Ee has a passion for serving the elderly and going the extra mile on their behalf. “Even when I go on holiday,” she smiles, “they will be sending me messages asking when I will return! It’s really a joy to serve them.”

Mr Chen, 86 years old and a resident of the home for the past five years, said: “The volunteers from Pentecost are very caring, always asking how I am doing and trying to help me. The karaoke sessions allow me to spend time with fellow residents and volunteers, instead of just keeping to the dormitory all the time.”

Other faithful volunteers include members of the Women’s Society of Christian Service from the Chinese Annual Conference – they have been faithfully leading worship in Mandarin and dialect every Thursday morning since 2005. They turned down the Long Service Awards as they preferred to keep a low profile.

Mr Goh Beng Hoe, Superintendent of the home, deeply appreciates their quiet service. “They’re very committed and caring to our residents, befriending them and inviting them to participate in fellowship. They’ve made a significant impact on residents, cheering them and making them feel cared for.”

Groups from other Methodist churches and schools serve on an ad-hoc basis. The Endless Praise choir from Wesley Methodist Church led by Mr Jusuf Kam visits the home two to three times yearly to sing for the residents.

There are Methodists too in the administrative office of the Home. Mr Goh is Methodist, and so are his colleagues, Operations Assistant Jeremy Eng Chek Hiang and Assistant Honorary Secretary Vijendran Alfreds. Mrs Julie Hong and Mrs Daisy Mahindapala from the General Conference WSCS represent the Methodist Church on the Spiritual Life Sub-Committee of the home.

Grace Toh is the Assistant Editor of Methodist Message.

SUPPORT n as volunteers and befrienders to the home’s elderly residents.Email Mr Goh Beng Hoe, Superintendent, at [email protected], call 6285-4446, or visit www.stjohneldershome.org.sg

St. John’s needs new home


21hOMe 21

privileged children, and she found this opportunity in World Vision. Currently a tertiary student, she has committed a portion of her monthly allowance to sponsor a child in Zambia.

“It is very meaningful that what I give goes not just to my sponsored child, but his family and community too. As students, we’ve the potential to offer so much more in terms of not just money, but time as well,” said Beatrice.

Both Jiakun and Beatrice shared their message to reach out to the poor during the Famine Camp, by volunteering alongside 120 other youths and young adults as group leaders and facilitators. By taking on frontline positions to influence their younger peers, they are responding to the call in Psalms 82:3 to “defend the

weak and the fatherless; uphold the cause of the poor and the oppressed”.

Jiakun shared that there is a fine line between compassion and “compassion with action”. “You can feel for the children and communities or you can feel for them and commit to doing something about it,” he said.

As cliché as it sounds, it is the effort and thought that counts. Beatrice strongly encourages youths to rally together and speak up for the voiceless. She said: “We have a voice and we have a say. They don’t. We have to tell ourselves that ‘a positive difference can and will start with me’.”

Michelle Tan is the Assistant Manager (Media & Communications) of World Vision International.

IMAGINE FASTING FROM 6 pm tonight until 12 midnight tomorrow – that’s 30 straight hours, and that’s how long about 1,000 youths, aged 14 to 18, did without food and drink at the World Vision Singapore’s 30 Hour Famine Camp at Anglo-Chinese School (Barker Road) held in mid-June.

The purpose? To raise awareness of hunger and famine caused by poverty and unequal distribution of food. More than half of the world’s children live on less than US$1 (S$1.30) a day – that’s barely enough to buy a soft drink here in Singapore, not to mention solid food.

Ms Foo Pek Hong, World Vision’s CEO, said: “The world is not just changing very fast, different parts are also becoming more inter-dependent on each other. We want to encourage our young people to be better equipped with the knowledge and awareness, not just to look out for their own well-being, but for others too.”

This year’s Famine Camp sought to groom youth advocates to be the champions for the poor and vulnerable in their communities, in particular children. To date, a group of youth ambassadors has already pledged their support to transform lives through volunteering, sponsoring children or as leaders and educators to their peers.

World Vision is committed to community transformation and sustainable development, which volunteer Xu Jiakun discovered after going on a Community Involvement trip to Vietnam with them in 2008. He was so inspired that he made a long-term commitment to World Vision as a Youth Ambassador and sponsor for a child in Thailand, whom he visited in 2010.

Jiakun, who is about to enter Duke University as a freshman, said: “We communicated with the children in different ways including performing for them. I believe their self-confidence is boosted through knowing that people from around the world care for them.”

Beatrice Lee-Chong had always wanted to be an advocate for under-

Youth advocates lead 30-hour fast for the poor

By Michelle Tan n Pictures by World Vision Singapore

Beatrice Lee-Chong (in white) with her group at the 30 Hour Famine Camp. She is an active advocate, volunteer and child sponsor.

n World Vision Singapore’s Youth Ambassador Programme, and get the opportunity to unveil real issues, meet inspiring people, and create lasting and impactful change. To apply or to find out more, visit www.worldvision.org.sg/YouthAmbassador.

JOIN

Students at the 30 Hour Famine Camp participating in a simulation exercise where they took on the roles of countries

and traded resources for their country’s survival.


22 POeMS

The Burning Bush

By Oliver Seet

STANDING UNSHOD, traumatisedbefore the manifest presence of God,Moses gasped to hear the Divine assignment.

Under Bedouin skies at nightfall,contemplating the majestyof distant starsthat swept acrossevery inglenook of spacein the cloudless desert firmament,he had learnt the secrets of Creation:of Adam’s world and of his fall from grace,and of succeeding generations- secrets shown to him aloneby the Spirit of Godthat led him to chroniclethe Word of the Almighty.

He had grown oldin the fastness of the wilderness;the zealto break the shackles of serfdomthat bound his people to Egyptian tyranny,leading him, a prince of the realm,to an impetuous act of murder,forcing him to flee from Pharaoh’s justice,had long abated:nothing remained of the pride

of his accomplishmentsin the heyday of his youthin the Egyptian court.

And what was the Lordsaying to him from a bushsuffused with holy fire;to him, Mosesa companion of sheepand crude unlettered shepherdsthese forty years,his powers of oratorychilled by the night winds of the desert,his self-confidencelike the sand sifting down an hourglass.To stand before the mightiest of Kings,the Pharaoh of Egypt,to tell himthat the Lord of Hostscommands him to let His people go?How effete,how derisively the Pharaoh would laughat the rantings of a man of rags and patches,barely able to speak for himself.

But little did Moses understandthe ways of the Almighty,

that in his own weakness the Lord’s strength would be made perfect,that in complete dependency on HimHis will would be accomplished.

Brooking no excusesthe Lord commissioned Moses,sending him back to Egyptwith his brother Aaronas his mouthpiece,armed only with a staffof miraculous powerand His assurancethat He would stand by him.

Conscious of his inadequacy,yet trusting wholeheartedlyin the great I Am,Moses set forthon his journey of faithand restoration of God’s chosen people.

(Exodus 3, 4:1-17; 2 Corinthians 12:9)

Dr Oliver Seet is a member of Wesley Methodist Church and a Board Director of the Metropolitan YMCA.

Fairfield Methodist Schools’ 125th Founder’s Day August 2, 2013 – Founder’s Day Service

Geylang Methodist School (Primary) 89th Thanksgiving August 7, 2013 – Thanksgiving Service

Congratulations!

22

23AUGUST is the month for ...23

Let us

have your

views

Have something to say or share? Email us at [email protected] and if appropriate, your contribution could be published.

Dear Editor,

Thank you for publishing the candid article “An underlying intolerance” by André De Winne in the July 2013 issue.

I worship in both Methodist and Roman Catholic churches in Singapore, and have friends in both traditions. Intolerance born of ignorance undoubtedly persists and one sees it on both sides of the divide. Methodists and Protestants are not the only ones afflicted.

Nonetheless, I see a greater convergence and spirit of mutual respect among Christians of all stripes. As Methodists, we should perhaps take to heart our prayer that God will make us “one with Christ, one with each other, and one in ministry to all the world”.

Yours sincerely,Prof Kon Oi Lian

Readers Write

Joining the Methodist Festival Choir – final Vocal Placement sessionAug 6 (Tuesday), 7.30 pm – 9.30 pmMethodist Centre, 70 Barker RoadCall now – it’s still not too late to join the new Methodist Festival Choir! Due to overwhelming response, an additional Vocal Placement session has been arranged for interested singers. But hurry – sign up soon, as choir rehearsals begin on August 20.

Organised by the Methodist School of Music. Call Ms Alpia Carolasan or Ms Margaret Mok at 6767-5258.

Donating to MMS “My Father’s Business”We thank God that all tables for the MMS “My Father’s Business” Banquet on August 25 at the Fullerton Hotel have

been fully taken up. We would like to invite you to still donate to raise funds for three major field projects this year: 1) Vineyard Methodist School (Phase 2) in Chiang Mai, Thailand2) Methodist Centre cum Wesley Methodist Church in

Kathmandu, Nepal3) Children’s Home cum Training Centre in Huangshan, China

Visit our website for more details and to download the donation form – www.mms.org.sg. Or email [email protected]

Christian Unity: Night of Praise & WorshipAug 26 (Monday), 8 pm – 10 pmAldersgate Methodist Church, 98 Dover RoadAn ecumenical healing service led by the Rev Fr Derrick Yap (Church of St. Mary of the Angels), the Rev Dr Lorna Khoo (Aldersgate Methodist Church) and the Rev Daniel Lee Kuan Yong (Hakka Methodist Church).

Organised by the Committee of Ecumenical Movement (Roman Catholic Church), the Catholic Alpha Advisory & Coordinating Team (Alpha Singapore), and an Ad Hoc Protestant Team.

Supporting Geylang Methodist Primary’s SUPER CarnivalAug 31 (Saturday), 9 am – 4 pmGeylang Methodist School (Primary), 4 Geylang East CentralThe school aims to raise $2 million for a new classroom block and indoor sports hall.

Food and games available, special features include busking, archery, and photo-taking with Star Wars characters.

Organised by Geylang Methodist Primary School. Buy coupons at the school office: 6748-6746

Signing up for “Through the Cracks” Conference on Special NeedsSep 7 (Saturday), 10 am – 5 pmWesley Methodist Church, 5 Fort Canning Road Register before Aug 25, $20 per person. This first-ever church conference on special needs invites all Christians to engage with and support families with special needs. The keynote speaker is the Rev Wilfred C. Hoecke, an expert in the area of Family Health and Education and a parent of a youth with special needs. You may also sign up for two related events: Sep 4 (Wednesday) 7.30 pm – 10 pm: “How Dads Make a Difference” talkSep 6 (Friday) 9 am – 6 pm: C-PREP Couples’ Workshop – designed for couples with children with special needs.Places are limited – register early!

Organised by Praise Special Community and Ministry of the Hearing Impaired (Wesley Methodist Church), and Family Inclusion Network (Church of Our Saviour). Contact Ms Rosalind Tay at [email protected] or 6837-9213.

Methodist Message is 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 New International Version, unless otherwise stated.

Editorial BoardAdviser and Publisher: Bishop Dr Wee Boon Hup, Chairman, Council on Communications: Editor: Ms Christina Stanley Assistant Editor: Ms Grace Toh

Our address: Methodist Message • 70 Barker Road Singapore 309936 • Tel: 6478-4786 • Fax: 6478-4794 • Email: [email protected] website: www.methodistmessage.com • Church website: www.methodist.org.sg


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MARRIAGES AND RELATIONSHIPS are under siege today. Factors that contribute to divorces include neglect of the family, physical and emotional absence, adultery, selfish pursuits, financial tensions and a range of other behaviours.

Christian couples and families are not immune and Christian counsellors and pastors share that they are now seeing more cases of marriage break-ups and dysfunctional relationships.

The stipulation is clear on what is expected when a man and woman enter into matrimony. Section 46 of the Women’s Charter states: “upon the solemnisation of marriage, the husband and the wife shall be mutually bound to co-operate with each other in safeguarding the interests of the union and in caring and providing for the children”. It provides that both spouses have equal rights and responsibilities in managing the household and raising their children.

The Holy Bible reveals God’s original plan on marriage, and this is in three phases: the separation of the man and woman from their families of origin (leave), a commitment of the man and woman to each other (cleave) and the construction of life together – physically, emotionally, and spiritually (become one flesh). (David Instone-Brewer, Divorce and Marriage in the Bible: The Social and Literary Context, 2002.)

The responsibilities of reproduction and parenthood are entrusted to both man and woman in Genesis 1:28 when God commanded Adam and Eve to “be fruitful and increase in number”; He gave both the responsibility of working together to “subdue (the earth)” and “rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky and over every living creature that

24 ThINk

Shoring up marriagesBy Debbie Ong

moves on the ground”. The wife of noble character in

Proverbs 31 appears as the godly career wife and mother of today who shares equally with her husband the household management and breadwinning tasks.

Both spouses are expected to fully contribute to a marriage, yet no one contribution is inferior to another. This is clear in both the secular law, and God’s law on marriage.

It may appear that the contribution of the breadwinner is “more valuable” because a financial value can be placed on it, while homemaking efforts have no assigned financial value. Yet the highest Court in Singapore has placed breadwinning and homemaking on equal footing, recognising that both roles involved are equally valuable (see Lock Yeng Fun v Chua Hock Chye [2007] 3 SLR(R) 520).

The underlying philosophy is that a successful marriage requires different types of efforts and contributions from both spouses.

The homemaking efforts of a wife may in fact be instrumental to the achievements of the breadwinner husband: the well-loved husband who has a haven for a home is energised for

yet another day to face work challenges. The wife who feels cherished by her husband finds strength to nurse her baby through the night and still take on the breadwinning task in the day.

“Contributions” to a marriage come in all forms, including breadwinning, parenting, loving and supporting the other spouse.

Second, the “thinking” spouse who is enlightened by the Word of God and who does not underestimate the stresses on family relationships is better

prepared in safeguarding the marriage. When globalisation is an inevitable modern phenomenon that puts stress on relationships, what can the Christian spouse do to safeguard the marriage union?

How does a spouse flee from the temptations that come from the freedom and anonymity of travelling alone in a foreign country? How does the career mom ensure her business travels do not alienate her from her children who need her nurturing presence?

How does one stay in command of the mesmerising allure of social media, where communication is possible at anytime from anywhere? When do virtual chatting and Facebook interaction become inappropriate online flirting?

Let us not forget to THINK about the impact of these stresses on our precious family relationships.

Debbie Ong is an Associate Professor in the NUS Law School and specialises in Family Law. She is a member of Pentecost Methodist Church and has been serving in the Methodist Welfare Services ministry. Debbie is married to Victor, a lawyer. They have three happy children.

methodist message: august 2013 issue

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