2022_08 28 Online Bulletin_Website

Sunday 28th August 2022 ST GEORGE’S CHURCH Every person complete in Christ - Colossians 1: 28 WELCOME to St George’s International Anglican Church! We are very glad that you have joined us today. If you are simply visiting St George’s we hope that you will leave us having experienced encouragement and challenge from hearing God’s word, praying to him, singing in your heart to him, meeting with him and with his people. If you would like to join us more regularly at St George’s, then please let us know by contacting the office on [email protected] Our website is also helpful www.stgeorges.org.sg Our desire for everyone who attends St George’s is that we will be more mature in Christ than when we arrived. Yours in Christ, Ian Hadfield THE COLLECT FOR ELEVENTH SUNDAY AFTER TRINITY SUNDAY O God, you declare your almighty power most chiefly in showing mercy and pity: mercifully grant to us such a measure of your grace, that we, running the way of your commandments, may receive your gracious promises, and be made partakers of your heavenly treasure; through Jesus Christ your Son our Lord, who is alive and reigns with you, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, now and for ever. AMEN. 1

Bishop Titus' Pastoral Letter on the Repeal of s377A Bishop Titus shares his thoughts about the repeal of s377A in a Pastoral Letter. This letter should be shared with all parishioners, highlighted in your parish bulletin and website. Download the Pastoral Letter here. Bishop Titus' Pastoral Letter on the Repeal of s377A In light of the announcement by the Prime Minister at the National Day Rally 2022 regarding the Repeal of s377A, Bishop Titus shares his thoughts in a Pastoral Letter to all members of The Diocese of Singapore. Read Bishop Titus' Pastoral Letter on the Diocesan website at www.anglican.org.sg . Statement from the National Council of Churches of Singapore https://nccs.org.sg/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/NCCS-EngChin- Stmt-on-s377A-20220823.pdf 2

PASTORAL LETTER TO ST GEORGE’S CHURCH Pastoral response to the plan to rescind section 377A of the Criminal Code Final_24082022.pdf 3

Mark 4:35-41 Jesus Calms the Storm This section on the calming of the storm is a part of Mark’s second major section (Mk 4:35—8:26) which revolves around three sea crossings, each of which reveals something deeply significant about Jesus. On the first sea crossing, Jesus and his disciples encounter a violent storm that fills his disciples with fear. The account includes three questions that are of immense significance to Mark’s subsequent story. Questions have an important role in communication, for once a question is asked, an answer is required. A question asked as part of the narrative also becomes a question for Mark’s readers. The first question comes in the middle of the storm. The disciples cry out for their lives: doesn’t Jesus’ care they are perishing? (4:38). This question arises from the disciples’ fear of death, yet Mark’s readers cannot help but ask the same question. The fear of death is a universal problem that holds us all in slavery for a lifetime (Heb 2:14–15). The question not only expresses the deep anxiety experienced by every human but, more particularly, raises a question about Jesus. When human beings are dying, does Jesus care? 4

The second question is Jesus’ question as to why the disciples are afraid: do they still have no faith? (Mk 4:40). This highlights the contrasting experience of faith versus fear, which are opposites in Mark’s Gospel. If the disciples believed, they would not be afraid. But since they are afraid, they still do not have faith. But the key word is “still” (v. 40). This raises the expectation that they will at some point come to faith as the narrative progresses. The disciples are on a journey toward faith. We, as Mark’s readers, not only are watching this journey but are also drawn into the same experience of moving toward faith in Jesus Christ. The third question comes from the disciples: who is Jesus? Even the wind and the waves obey him (v. 41). Mark has previously raised the question of Jesus’ identity (Mk 1:24,27). The narrative will raise this question time and again. We have been privileged with the right answer since the beginning (1:1), but the narrative continues to ask us to make up our minds about Jesus. The three questions are interrelated. If the disciples truly knew who Jesus was and had faith in him, they would not have feared for their lives. The kind of faith Jesus requires is faith in him—properly understood— even in the face of death. Once the disciples understand who Jesus really is, their fear of death and their wondering whether Jesus really cares about them will be answered. And the same applies to Mark’s readers. Once these three key questions are asked, the rest of Mark’s second major section (4:35—8:26) shows Jesus acting to establish his disciples’ faith. Blessings, Shehan Thomas 5

PSALM 81:1, 10-16 1 Sing for joy to God our strength; shout aloud to the God of Jacob! 10 I am the LORD your God, who brought you up out of Egypt. Open wide your mouth and I will fill it. 11 “But my people would not listen to me; Israel would not submit to me. 12 So I gave them over to their stubborn hearts to follow their own devices. 13 “If my people would only listen to me, if Israel would only follow my ways, 14 how quickly I would subdue their enemies and turn my hand against their foes! 15 Those who hate the LORD would cringe before him, and their punishment would last forever. 16 But you would be fed with the finest of wheat; with honey from the rock, I would satisfy you.” 6

MARK 4: 35-41 35 That day when evening came, he said to his disciples, “Let us go over to the other side.” 36 Leaving the crowd behind, they took him along, just as he was, in the boat. There were also other boats with him. 37 A furious squall came up, and the waves broke over the boat, so that it was nearly swamped. 38 Jesus was in the stern, sleeping on a cushion. The disciples woke him and said to him, “Teacher, don’t you care if we drown?” 39 He got up, rebuked the wind and said to the waves, “Quiet! Be still!” Then the wind died down and it was completely calm. 40 He said to his disciples, “Why are you so afraid? Do you still have no faith?” 41 They were terrified and asked each other, “Who is this? Even the wind and the waves obey him!” 7

8 am 10:15 am 5:30 pm Communion Service Service Service Mike Raiter Mike Raiter Preacher Mike Raiter Suzana Yeo Rev Dr Martin Foord Mark 4: 35-41 Mark 4: 35-41 Service Rev Ian Hadfield Robyn Smee Rob Walker Leader Tom Anderson Richard Howe Sermon Mark 4: 35-41 Passage Reader Esme Ambrose Reading Psalm 81:1, 10-16 Intercessor Janet Sosna 8

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PRAISE GOD FOR WHO HE IS • Praise Jesus for the mighty power that he displayed when on earth, including the calming of the storm. THE WORLD • Pray for Mayotte (Africa between the mainland and Madagascar). Pray for this Muslim majority (99.9%) nation. Thank God for the religious freedom in the nation but response to the gospel is slow. Pray for the work of the Holy Spirit. Pray for more labourers to be called to Mayotte for long-term ministry, especially Francophone Africans. Those already there do a great job in a difficult field. • Continue to pray for an end to war in Ukraine. Pray that Russia and Ukraine will seek peace not further bloodshed. • Continue to pray for the global world food crises and the effects of rising costs of living worldwide. Pray especially for the poor and generosity towards them. SINGAPORE • Pray for our government as they map the way forward for Singapore including the issues resulting around the repeal of section 377A of the criminal code. Pray for God’s wisdom in deciding what is best for the nation. • Thank God for the further easing of COVID restrictions. Thank God for our medical carers and pray for them as COVID-19 is still active in our nation. 11

• Continue to pray for the National Council of Churches Singapore (NCCS) as they continue to speak to the issues of government policy and to the people of Singapore. Pray for Bishop Titus who heads the NCCS. He has just returned from annual leave. ST GEORGE’S • Pray for St George’s Local partner: Mission to Seafarers: Thank God for all who serve on the seas. As the new Tuas Port comes ‘online’ and thus Mission to Seafarers expands their ministry, pray for finances and new workers with willing hearts to be found to serve in this ministry. Pray for God’s work in Christ through the Mission. Pray for the Mission to Seafarers Board as they lead and Soon Kok as he serves as Chaplain. Pray too for Susan as she serves along with Soon Kok in the Mission. • Bring before the Lord the Church Council that meets next Thursday (25th Aug). Pray for wisdom in decision making and for unity in outcomes and that the conclusions will continue to help us all to mature in our Christian faith. • Pray for those who are unwell; Anna-Lily, Bee Kuan, Craig, Dave and David, Jayanthi, Jacqueline, Joanna, Kenny, Kevin, Pearl, Robin, Tee Dhye, and Yu Ping. Pray for their mental health and a sense of God’s peace. Colossians 4:2 2 Devote yourselves to prayer, being watchful and thankful. Psalm 84 8 Hear my prayer, LORD God Almighty; listen to me, God of Jacob. 12

Monthly Prayer Meeting 1st September 2022, 7.30pm, Online Zoom Come and join us praying for our World, Our City Singapore, and Our Church. Our World needs Jesus and so join us as we ask the Lord to show his glory through his gospel and his church. If you would like a copy of the prayer points please contact Betty at [email protected] Register here: https://rebrand.ly/SGCMonthlyPrayPC for Zoom Details or contact Betty Wu via whatsapp 96577142.: 13

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SENIORS FELLOWSHIP Saturday, 3rd September 2022, 10am-12 noon, at St George's Church Open Courtyard All Seniors are invited to join a monthly Seniors Fellowship gathering in church. All are welcome to join the first gathering on 3rd September. The first gathering will give us time to catch up after a long period of restrictions due to the pandemic. This will be on Saturday, the 3rd September from 10 am to 12 noon in the Open Courtyard. Refreshments will be provided. All members who have seniors at home are also welcome to bring them to join the gathering. Please register early for the organisers to arrange the catering. Register here : https://rebrand.ly/SGCRegister 15

Marriage Preparation Course The Marriage Preparation Course is a series of five sessions to help engaged couples or those exploring the possibility of marriage, build strong foundations for their future together. Topics covered include Communications, Conflict Management, Commitment, Connection and Adventure. Saturdays, 1.00pm-3.00pm 3, 10, 17, 24 September and 1 October 2022 Venue: St George's Church, Nissen Hut Course Fee per couple: $80 (Journal and Afternoon Tea) 100% attendance is required Register here : https://rebrand.ly/SGCRegister 16

Ancient Ways in a Modern World 10, 17 & 24 September 2022 (3 Saturdays) 9.00am to 12 noon An invitation to explore different pathways to a deeper life in Christ. This practical workshop on classical spiritual formation disciplines will enhance your devotional life and help you practice the presence of God in this modern world. It will also benefit those who are planning to go on a personal retreat. Cost : $20 (Registration fee is non- refundable) Venue: Youth Building (1st floor) Register here : https://rebrand.ly/SGCRegister 17

WE ARE LOOKING AT PAINTING THE CENTRE BUILDING SOON. WOULD ANYONE HAVE ANY KNOWLEDGE OF THE ARTIST WHO PAINTED THESE WALL MURALS AND HOW DO WE CONTACT THEM? PLEASE REPLY TO: [email protected] THANK YOU IN ADVANCE. 18

Dear Bros & Sis in the Lord, I’m Larry Tan, member from Chapel Of Christ the Redeemer (CCR), an Anglican Church in Tampines. We are booked for a Trip To visit Israel & Jordan 18Nov-02Dec’22. The trip is confirmed to go but we still have some seats available, and I would like to invite you to join us for “A Life Changing Experience” to the Holy Land (Dead Sea to Jerusalem, walk the Via Dolorosa, the Way of the Cross to Calvary. Visit King David’s Palace & Hezekiah’s Tunnel, Garden Tomb Garden, etc) Do contact me for Registration and Trip Details. Closing date by 5-September. Contact or WhatsApp: Larry Tan (65) 96427307. 19

6 KEYS TO MENTAL HEALTH 20

Support Refugees From Ukraine World Vision is a Christian based charity who has been present in Eastern Europe for decades. World Vision is scaling up its operation in response to refugees entering Romania from Ukraine and plans to provide psychological first aid for children who have been traumatized by this conflict, as well as basic relief supplies for refugees. Read more here: https://disaster.worldvision.org.sg/response#ukr Donate here direct to World Vision: 21

Volunteers Needed Help lead us in singing as well as greet and usher people into their seats, help with bible readings and prayers, livestreaming, sound desk, data projector, setting up and distributing communion, and helpers for after church refreshments etc. etc. Please sign up and we will arrange training for you. Go Here TO Sign Up 22

Life Groups are doing life together in a supportive small group. You can explore issues of faith. You can ask questions. You can express your opinion. You can care for each other and care for others outside the group. All whilst looking at the bible and practically applying the riches and wisdom of God. Sign up here and we will find you a group: https://rebrand.ly/SGCLIFEGROUP 23

Filipino Fellowship Meets every Sunday at St George’s Church In the Lower Hall – 12 noon Join us and be refreshed as we study His word following the sermon series on Mark. If you prefer online: Sunday nights – 9pm on Zoom: Friday nights Bible study – Decisions 7pm or 9pm Zoom: For more info, please contact Hydie Valdez at [email protected] 24

Monday Tiny Tots Suspended until further notice 25

St George’s Sunday School 10.15am Term 3 starts back **** The Children’s Ministry Team are looking forward to meeting you all for an exciting time together at Sunday school every week. We start term 3 of Sunday school: ▪ 3 - 5’s Promises to Abraham’s family (from Genesis) ▪ 6 - 8’s God saves His people (from Judges and 1 & 2 Samuel) ▪ 9 - 11’s God speaks through Elijah and Elisha (from 1 & 2 Kings) An email has been sent to parents about what the children will be learning for the whole term. If you have children in Sunday school and are not receiving emails but would like to, please email [email protected] Note: Parents, please check out the displayed picture on the Notice Board showing some fun moments of your children during the last week of July Summer Holiday Programme. Matthew 5: 14-16, Jesus said, “You are the light of the world…. let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven’’. 26

Tuesday Toddler Time at St George's Church Register Now !!! ������ Toddler Time meets at church – 10am service (prayer, story, and action songs) Registration is required prior to attend the weekly service every Tuesday. Register here https://rebrand.ly/SGCToddlerTime. For more information, please email Hydie at [email protected]. 27

* Regular Church Service times: SUNDAY ACTIVITES 8am Communion Service with Choir. 10:15 am Service with Sunday School and H2O Youth. 5:30 pm Service a relaxed contemporary Service: After each Service we have light refreshment afterwards. Join us. Sunday School: In person Sundays 10:15am Summer Camp H20 Youth: In Person Sundays 10:15 am WEEKLY ACTIVITIES Dig Deeper Youth: In Person @St George's 6 - 7:30 pm for Junior/Intermediate teens (12 -15 Years Old) 7:30 - 9:30 pm for Senior teens (16 - 18 Years Old) Midweek Wednesday 10:30am Service: We have light refreshment afterwards. Join us. Tiny Tots will resume in the 2nd half of the year. Toddler Time (For Helpers and Tots) 10 am Tuesdays: * St George's church building is open during the week between 9am-4pm for private prayer. - Revd. Ian and the staff team 28

Midweek Communion Wednesdays 10:30am Midweek Wednesday 10:30am Service is open to anyone (vaccinated or not against COVID-19) without registration. We have light refreshment afterwards. Join us. For more information please WhatsApp message to the Office 96577142 29

Church Live Stream Watch the 8 am and the 10:15 am St George's Church Services as they happen from home, the car, with others etc. Go to https://rebrand.ly/SGCLiveStream You will also be able to watch the Service any time after 8 or 10:15 am too by going to the Church Website https://www.stgeorges.org.sg and/or the Church's YouTube channel youtube.com/StGeorgesChurchSingapore 30

If you're interested or would like more info on this, please do get in touch with Shehan ([email protected]) 31

H2O Youth Presents 'Youth Alpha' The start date for the series is September 11th (Sunday @ 9:30am to 11:30 am) on the upper floor of the Youth Building. We are also on the lookout for volunteers to help with the various aspects of the program. Friends, we invite you to join us for Youth Alpha! Happening at St. George's Church on the upper floor of the Green Youth building. Day/Time - Sundays, 09:30am - 11:30am Youth Alpha is a series of 13 sessions exploring the Christian Faith in a friendly and informal environment with honest discussions. Everyone's welcome to join! First up there will be food! (breakfast served at 9:30 am) and then we will head to the Youth Hall to watch a video and have discussions based on the video. Scan for registration or Register here https://rebrand.ly/SGCALPHAYOUTH If interested, please contact Shehan ([email protected]) for more info. 32

DIG DEEPER happens on Friday nights! For ages 12-15 years, Dig Deeper runs from 6 - 7:30 pm, and for senior teens (16-18 years) from 8 - 9:30 pm. We meet on the top floor of the green youth building at St George's Church. For more info contact Shehan ([email protected]) 33

H20 YOUTH SUNDAYS This Sunday we are in the Youth Hall at 10:15 am, as we begin our new 3-week series titled, 'The book of Mark'. This series highlights the Person and Work of Jesus Christ and our response to Him. This week we'll be looking at Mark 2:1-12. If you're interested or would like more info, please do get in touch with Shehan ([email protected]). 34

Thank you for the generous way that you have been giving to St George's Mission Partners, especially during the difficult times that COVID-19 has brought. Unfortunately, due to changes in the Singapore Charities Commission, Singapore Anglican Churches can no longer send money on behalf of individual Church Members or church groups who donate to specific Mission Partners. Church Members or groups will need to donate directly. St George's Website https://www.stgeorges.org.sg/outreach- partners-list lists the Mission Partners' websites for your easy individual/group donating. 35

St George's Mission Committee will: 1) receive 20% of offertories then distribute to St George's Mission Partners (Local and International) 2) receive donations for general missions (on top of the 20%) and distribute to St George's Mission Partners (Local and International) 3) distribute money donated according to St George's policies to Local and International Partners. 4) tell the church membership about financial needs but are not allowed to specifically ask for financial donations. Despite the above making it more difficult to donate, please continue to be generous as God has been generous to you. 36

For your prayerful consideration Whilst the church is not meeting together, we still have financial costs as well has providing assistance to those who need it. So we ask that you prayerfully and carefully consider giving online through PayNow or Planned Giving. FOR PAYNOW 1. Please open your bank app and click the \"scan & pay\" and scan the below QR code Please go to this section of the website to find out more https://www.stgeorges.org.sg/how-do-i-give Or download the form here. And send the completed form to Annette: [email protected] 37

Contact Us [email protected] [email protected] Vicar: Rev. Ian Hadfield Seniors: Rev. Paul Tan [email protected] Women and Families Lead: [email protected] Priscilla Chua Interim Children's Ministry Leader: [email protected] Getsy Daniel [email protected] Youth Ministry: Shehan Thomas [email protected] Life Groups/Courses: Sean Tan [email protected] Filipino Ministry: Hydie Valdez Student Minister: Asher Chua Admin Manager: Nicholas Tan [email protected] Finance: Annette Ho [email protected] Membership & Courses: Betty Wu [email protected] Property: Cynthia Lamb [email protected] Rosters+Website: Lesley Limpin [email protected] Digital Technology: Isaac Johnson [email protected] Office Mobile (WhatsApp only) 96577142 (Mobile No.) Address: St George's Church 44 Minden Rd, Singapore 248816 38