Methodist Message: Aug 2023

Yong-en Care Centre: Of good friends, teachers and church buildings The Church's role in being salt and light in the world Vol 125 No 8 AUGUST 2023 Hospitality as justice: Addressing homelessness in Singapore ISSN 0129-6868 MCI (P) 031/11/2022

Editorial Board Contents Adviser and Publisher / Bishop’s Message / Dr Anthony Goh / News / Chairperson, Council on Communications 3 Range of subjects, diverse community, Communications Manager caring and professional faculty, Lynn Tan among reasons why students choose TTC Managing Editor / Feature / Alvin Tay 6 Yong-en Care Centre: Of good friends, teachers and church buildings Editor / Opinion / Lianne Ong 10 Young Voices: Hospitality as justice— Communications Executive Addressing homelessness in Singapore 14 Soundings: The Church's role in being salt and light in the world Kathrynn Koh / Outreach / Sub-editors 16 Seeing poverty in Singapore through a new lens Lucy Cheng 20 Community work and Christian missions Janice Khoo Tan Chiu Ai / Relationships / Elliot Soh 23 At The Well 28 You and Your Family: Mixed doubles Proofreaders / Worship / Kenneth Lee Christabel Tan 31 Inclusive worship The official monthly publication / People / of The Methodist Church in Singapore. Published material 33 Are we doing enough to work together? does not necessarily reflect the official view of The Methodist Church. All Scripture quoted is based on the English Standard Version unless otherwise stated. 70 Barker Road #06-04 Singapore 309936 6478-4793 | 6478-4763 methodist.org.sg/message www.methodist.org.sg communications@methodist. org.sg fb.com/Methodist.SG @methodist.sg @methodistsg Have something to say or share? Email us at [email protected] Layout by Londonbob Design Printed by Adred Creation Print Pte Ltd

Act justly, love mercy and walk humbly with God He has shown you, O mortal, what is good. And what does the LORD require of you? To act justly and to love mercy and to walk humbly with your God. Micah 6:8 (NIV) Editorial credit: Hit1912 / Shutterstock.com G od's commission in Micah 6:8 is especially prayer, fasting and Christian worship. \"Works relevant in at least two ways this month. of mercy\" referred to acts of charity and compassion for the distressed in society. Firstly, Singapore celebrates her National Day, and the call in Micah 6:8 is addressed, not Such \"works of mercy\" or social concerns are only to \"Christians\", and not only to \"men\", in line with Micah's call to act justly and love but to all human beings. The rendering \"O mercy as part of a disciple's walk with God. mortal\" in NIV's 2011 edition helps to clarify John Wesley regarded \"works of mercy\" as the Hebrew word used here for \"humanity\" the most important mark or characteristic of (in contrast to many English translations true godliness. Whilst \"works of piety\" were which use \"O man\"). The call to act justly, to important, Wesley said that godly persons love mercy and to walk humbly goes out from should be \"more zealous for works of mercy\". God to all human beings in every nation, and And, should there be occasion where \"one not least to our nation also. interferes with the other, works of mercy are to be preferred. Even reading, hearing, prayer Secondly, we are \"a people called are to be omitted, or to be postponed, at Methodists\", and Micah 6:8 emphasises charity's almighty call; when we are called to what Methodism's founder John Wesley also relieve the distress of our neighbour, whether stressed. In a sermon On Zeal, Wesley said in body or soul.\" 1 that Christian disciples ought to be zealous in doing both \"works of piety\" and \"works of May all human beings and Methodists in mercy\". By \"works of piety\", Wesley meant Singapore be zealous to act justly, to love the spiritual disciplines of Bible reading, mercy and to walk humbly with God. 1 http://wesley.nnu.edu/john-wesley/the-sermons-of-john-wesley-1872-edition/sermon-92-on-zeal/ August 2023 — Methodist Message 1

Coming up 2 Methodist Message — August 2023

News By Trinity Theological College Communications Team. / Photos courtesy of TTC Range of subjects, diverse community, caring and professional faculty, among reasons why students choose TTC A s the oldest seminary in Singapore, Lutheran Church in Singapore. Trinity Theological College (TTC) has been equipping Christians for This August, TTC will conduct its annual ministry since its founding in 1948. Open House, and welcomes anyone who TTC celebrates its 75th anniversary this might want to be trained as a full-time year with the theme \"Changing World, pastor, missionary or para-church worker. Unchanging Light\". Members of the laity who want to be equipped to serve their churches better As a union college, TTC is an extension of and to become more effective witnesses the ministry of four Governing Churches for Christ through their vocations in of different denominations, namely society are also welcome. The Anglican Diocese of Singapore, The Methodist Church in Singapore, The Past and present students of TTC share Presbyterian Church in Singapore and the about their experience at this seminary. My first year of studies in TTC has been genuine concern for my well-being, going one of the most enriching periods in my the extra mile to address my concerns and Christian walk. challenges in ministry and even in my personal life, while my friends provide TTC has provided the time and space to an invaluable source of support and fully immerse myself in the pursuit of \"faith encouragement. seeking understanding\". Together with my fellow classmates, I grapple with what has Benjamin Huang been taught and learn how to apply the lessons to many areas of life and ministry. Second year Master of Divinity student The teachings and guidance by our lecturers have played a key role in deepening my understanding of God. The learning doesn't stop there. It goes beyond the confines of the classroom— even the moments when we walk to the dining hall or library, or hang out in the lounge or hostels, our discussions and learning continue. While challenging at first, I've learnt to enjoy the journey with my lecturers and classmates—my lecturers demonstrate August 2023 — Methodist Message 3

Range of subjects, diverse community, caring and professional faculty, among reasons why students choose TTC Why study in TTC? One reason would be the range of academic subjects taught: from Church History to Christian Ethics, from biblical languages to Field Education. These provide a comprehensive foundation that equips one for ministry or research. Another reason would be the teachers in TTC. They are more than repositories of knowledge and wisdom; they are mentors who model what it means to be pastoral. Finally, it is the community. Because TTC is a union college, you get an opportunity to interact and learn from believers of different Christian traditions. I would liken studying in TTC to wading into a stream that opens to the vast sea of scholarship. The stream will refresh spiritually; the sea will sometimes overwhelm. But ultimately it is an invitation to grow, academically and experientially, in understanding the depth and the richness of the truth and grace of God in Jesus Christ. Khaw Siew Ping Third year Doctor of Theology student What has been transformative for me during my study at TTC was writing a Master of Theology (MTh) thesis on the psalms of vengeance. The research on Old Testament theologies as a possible lens for reading curses in some psalms has helped me to see God in a new light and deepened my trust in God's promise of justice in the world. I greatly valued the learning experience at TTC in many ways. The faculty and staff at TTC are caring, professional and highly proficient in their fields of expertise. What makes them different from others is the level of interest they take in their students, the quality time they spend with them and the depth of academic training they provide throughout the learning process. The supervision and academic training I received through the MTh programme have helped to strengthen my research competencies and critical thinking skills. The positive atmosphere at TTC is very conducive for spiritual formation as well as doing research work. Sim Joo Yee Master of Theology (2023) First year Doctor of Theology student 4 Methodist Message — August 2023

My time at TTC was very formative and foundational CONSIDERING in my journey as a Christian minister. In particular, A THEOLOGICAL God used TTC to provide me with a solid biblical EDUCATION? and theological foundation. The fact that I had the opportunity to study two biblical languages was a Do you desire to be huge blessing. This gave me the capacity to do deeper equipped to serve God exegetical study when preparing to preach and teach more effectively in the in church. church and marketplace? Is God calling you to be The three semesters of theological classes have also theologically trained for given me a grounding in the theological core of the ministry? Christian faith, for example, in my understanding of the Trinity. This has proved invaluable as I pastor the Come to the TTC Open congregation, especially the young adults who are House 2023 for lectures, eager to know the theological anchors of their faith. and worship at the Apart from training the mind, TTC also trained my chapel. Dine with the heart and hands by giving me opportunities to grow community, tour the in practical ministry. The field education and pastoral campus, and interact with praxis classes were especially useful to this end. All in the faculty and students. all, my period of study in TTC was God's gift to me for my formation and transformation—as a servant of the living God. Benjamin Sun Master of Divinity (2022) Ministry Staff Covenant Evangelical Free Church 23 Aug (Wed) 2023 8.30 a.m. – 2.00 p.m. Trinity Theological College Registration is required. Please register by 20 Aug (Sun) 2023 at ttc.edu.sg/english/ OpenHouse2023 or via QR code August 2023 — Methodist Message 5

Feature Kate Lim works as a speech therapist and worships at Aldersgate Methodist Church. / Photos courtesy of Yong-en Care Centre and Kate Lim Yong-en Care Centre: A skating holiday Of good friends, teachers and church buildings programme which involved Yong-en's corporate volunteers W hen Yong-en Care Centre Yong-en Care Centre: How it began was set up in 1996, it served the flats around Chin Swee Road, After Fairfield Methodist Church (FFMC) Jalan Kukoh, Everton Park and Kreta moved to Tanjong Pagar Road in 1986, Ayer Road. These were residential some church members began befriending sites that typically had more elderly older residents at Block 5 Banda Street in residents, and the majority of Yong- Chinatown. They visited regularly, offering en's activities revolved around simple health or nursing care, friendship and assisting people in this age group. advice. Others offered free tuition to students. When the late Rev Dr Clarence Lim returned The Centre, a community service to FFMC as interim Pastor-in-Charge in supported by Fairfield Methodist 1996, he set the wheels in motion to formalise Church (FFMC), was started and the work in serving Chinatown, known today registered as a society in 1996, and as Yong-en Care Centre. The centre initially then as a secular charity in 1997. It operated on church premises, was awarded Institution of Public and moved to Smith Street in Character (IPC) status in 2001, and 2000 with the firm support is now an established care and of former Finance Minister, family support provider located in Dr Richard Hu. Chinatown. However, the profile of the residents is no longer dominated by seniors now, and Yong-en's programmes have evolved accordingly. 6 Methodist Message — August 2023

The tuition \"Many of the children and youths from ministry is these families do not receive adequate run by paid support from their families. It is Yong- tutors and en's mission to demonstrate care through volunteers giving guidance, and mould them into confident, self-sufficient and productive Beyond eldercare adults. We do so via educational support and youth personal development After launching a Dementia Day Care programmes,\" explains Brendon Chua, service in 2002, Yong-en Care Centre has Programme Executive (Children and since adapted and broadened its range Youth Team). of services to provide more family-centred help for different age groups. They now Children who are preparing for critical provide a holistic range of programmes in exams, such as PSLE, and lack support home care, case management, financial at home, receive help from Yong-en. assistance, educational support for children, Every week, 15 volunteer tutors and five and even youth mental health wellness and paid tutors provide English and Math weekly youth drop-in sessions. tuition. The free tuition classes are held at FFMC's premises, with about 40 Gracie Ngoi, Manager (Community students between the ages of 10 and 16 in Relations) at Yong-en explains, \"The profile attendance. of the rental flat dwellers has changed over the years. To cater to the needs of A former beneficiary of Yong-en's tuition the community now, we provide holistic programme is Ling Wen Jian, who care, going beyond our initial core work of returned in 2021 to volunteer as the tuition eldercare, such as free tuition. Our annual programme coordinator at Yong-en. education awards are ways to encourage our children, and help them reach their The 26-year-old software engineer says, fullest potential.\" \"This was the only tuition I had access to when I was a student. I am very grateful The profile of the residents now includes to have been tutored by a generous transnational families. The problems and knowledgeable teacher who always that arise grow more complex when they shared Math Olympiad articles with me. become single-parent families due to He helped to strengthen my love for, and family conflicts, the incarceration or death develop my potential in, Math.\" of one parent, or absence of a spouse. August 2023 — Methodist Message 7 Consequently, understanding the unique family situations and needs of the individuals involved becomes a significant part of Yong-en's work.

Yong-en Care Centre: Of good friends, teachers and church buildings Like big brothers and sisters \"We remember very fondly the times we went for horse-riding and laser tag during Small group tuition sessions also ensure the school holidays. We feel motivated to each child receives attention and support learn with our friends and teachers here. beyond their academic needs. Wen Jian We are so thankful to them for believing says that the children see the tutors as in us and helping us to improve in our more than just their teachers. \"We're schoolwork,\" said Det. like their big brothers or sisters. They remember our names, even after we have Another beneficiary, Siti*, 13, who is stopped teaching them for a long time.\" Indonesian, has been attending the weekly tuition programme and youth Siblings Det Lam*, 15, and Viv Lam*, drop-in sessions. She says, \"The teachers 16, have been attending the tuition are very understanding and patient. They programme since they were in never give up on me, trying many ways to kindergarten. They share how Yong-en has help me understand difficult concepts.\" made an impact in their lives. Such human connections and relationship- Viv recalls, \"The concern that the youth building can make a huge difference in the workers and teachers have for us, and lives of these children and youths. their dedication to support our learning, keeps us coming every Saturday morning, Siti's brother, Aqil*, 14, looks forward to even though weekends are very precious the weekly sports activities. He says, for sleeping in.\" \"Being with the staff at the Centre beats being at home and playing games on my handphone. Here, the mentors take time to (left) A understand me, speak my language, listen volunteer from to me. They feel like good friends to me.\" NUS helps out \"I am thankful to the centre staff for these during the activities. They help me learn new skills and school holiday hobbies like basketball. I also learn that I programme can be good at something,\" agrees Siti. (middle) Yong- \"I feel very happy to learn from the en's tuition teachers here. I hope to become a writer students are one day. Here is my first picture story of taught in small good friends, teachers and the church groups building!\" Aishah*, 10, who receives weekly English tuition. (right) Aishah's picture story 8 Methodist Message — August 2023

More after-school activities The new youth drop- for youth in centre at Jalan Many of the children and youths may Kukoh—a pilot project not have opportunities to participate in in collaboration with after-school activities due to financial Ministry of Social and constraints. They are also at critical growth phases in their lives and have Family Development— developmental and emotional needs, started operations in the which might not be adequately met by their parents due to irregular work 3rd quarter of this year schedules. The team at Brendon says, \"We are excited to extend our activities to the youths. At our Yong-en Care Centre weekly youth drop-in sessions at the Centre's premises on Smith Street and its (Children and Youth Programmes) surrounds, we hope to provide an avenue welcomes more people to join them for them to engage in meaningful activities in their mission. More tutors, after school. We want to provide a safe befrienders and mentors for the space for them to connect with supportive children and youths are needed. mentors, to realise their potential, discover their unique strengths, and become youth Email [email protected] leaders who can guide their peers and or contact the team at 62251002. younger siblings, and contribute back to Visit www.yong-en.org.sg and their respective communities.\" @yongencarecentre on Instagram for more information and updates. Wen Jian agrees that relationships are key to what Yong-en offers, beyond academic August 2023 — Methodist Message 9 support. \"As a volunteer at Yong-en, I hope that the children can be like me too, to have the chance to build a stronger academic foundation, have someone to ask when they have difficulties with their school work, someone to share their happy moments with, and someone to talk to.\" *Not his/her real name

Young Voices (left) Jonathan Chan is a writer and editor. He is the author (right) Tan Jing Min is a public servant and writer. of the poetry collection going home (Landmark, 2022). He She worships at Wesley Methodist Church. She has served serves as a worship leader in the Main and Korean-English with the Covid Migrant Support Coalition and Prison services of Covenant Community Methodist Church (CCMC) Fellowship Singapore. Her writings can be found on and as Director of the CCMC Gospel Choir. He previously thir.st, ETHOS Institute and Rice Media. interned at HealthServe and Tamar Village and volunteered at the Open Home Network and Cambridge Cyrenians. More of his writing can be found at jonbcy.wordpress.com. Hospitality as justice Addressing homelessness in Singapore \"People don't become homeless because they run out of cash ... they become homeless because they run out of relationships.\" Abraham Yeo, Co-Founder, Homeless Hearts of Singapore Source: Shutterstock I n the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public years or more for a third of respondents.  Policy's (LKYSPP) inaugural street count Their relative obscurity has relegated of homeless people in Singapore in 2019, Singapore's homeless population to the it revealed between 921 and 1,050 street periphery of public attention, especially homeless across the island.1 They were given the pride Singapore takes in its observed to reside primarily in larger housing policy and home ownership levels. and older housing estates and estates with more rental flats. Most were older, The LKYSPP outlines three types of single Singaporean Chinese men of low homelessness: primary or absolute education, with homelessness commonly homelessness, i.e. those who do not have attributed to economic, family and health accommodation and sleep in public spaces; problems. Chronic homelessness lasts six secondary homelessness, i.e. those who 10 Methodist Message — August 2023

stay in temporary, crisis or transitional \"For I was hungry accommodation; and relative or tertiary and you gave me no food, homelessness, i.e. those who are at risk of I was thirsty and you gave me homelessness, such as through eviction, no drink, ... Then they also will or in overcrowded or hostile conditions. answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we Homelessness is not merely being see you hungry or thirsty or without accommodation, but extends to a stranger or naked or sick any situation of residential precarity or or in prison, and did not instability. (The term \"rough sleeping\" is often used in Singapore.) minister to you?'\" The LKYSPP's second count in 2022 saw Matthew 25:42, 44 the number of street homeless dropping to 616 by 2021.2 However, this saw a The justification behind this concurrent increase in occupancy in inheritance is articulated clearly. The temporary shelters, from 52 to 420. This logic here is not transactional: the iteration identified three distinct groups: inheritance of God is not a reward the long-term homeless sleeping rough for hospitality. Rather, it inheres in prior to the pandemic, the newly homeless the notion of imago Dei, where each seeking housing support because of the person bears the undeniable imprint pandemic, and those temporarily rendered and likeness of God and is to be loved homeless by the closure of borders, in the same way he loves us. God mostly from Malaysia and Indonesia. The accords particular attention to the pandemic catalysed housing insecurity, marginalised and the poor, especially exacerbating familial divisions, precarious those with some form of material employment, and deficiencies in the public lack: a lack of food, shelter, clothing, rental housing scheme. Such examples healthcare or companionship. are a jarring demonstration of the Tending to immediate, physical needs wealth inequality that has predominated is a tangible expression of the love of Singapore in the last 20 years. The influx of God. Care for the soul and the body high-net-worth individuals into Singapore, are entwined.  as well as the palatial homes occupied by Singapore's wealthiest, make the existence Homelessness has deleterious effects of homelessness all the more galling. across various dimensions of health: physical, emotional and mental. To A response to homelessness can be found accord hospitality to a stranger is in the Gospel of Matthew. Addressing his an outworking of an understanding disciples, Jesus speaks of eschatology, of of God's love and his shalom, a the moment of his return, of the \"Son of connection of the excluded individual Man [coming] in glory\" to be seated on to a collective. Theologian Henri his throne. It is then that he will offer his Nouwen writes that hospitality is not inheritance to those blessed by the Father: about effecting change in people, but the kingdom prepared for them since rather about lavishly providing space the world's creation. In Matthew 25, Jesus where such change can occur. describes the behaviour of those who are denied this inheritance: August 2023 — Methodist Message 11

Hospitality as justice: Addressing homelessness in Singapore Real hospitality is meant to have a S3P. SowCare, the charity arm of the freeing, rather than constricting effect Bible Society of Singapore, set up a upon others. This balance between temporary shelter for rough sleepers receptivity and confrontation at the Bible House. Similarly, Yio reminds us that hospitality is a Chu Kang Chapel opened its doors reciprocal dynamic: just as the as a night shelter in November 2019, ministry of presence is vital, tending providing beds, pillows, blankets, to the needs of a guest, so too is the refreshments, heated showers, ministry of absence—holding space washing machines, dryers and Wi-Fi for individuals to flourish. for the stayers free of charge. The realisation of justice for the The provision of a home, rather than homeless requires not only short- an alternative shelter, is an approach term solutions such as temporary shared by the Open Home Network housing, food and clothing, but also (OHN), an initiative of community- long-term solutions and initiatives based management consultancy that allow for the changing of Solve n+1. The OHN sees staying with convictions and the imagining of host families as a more viable way of pathways forward. For example, helping those in crisis. The network Homeless Hearts of Singapore has designed a system to match (HHOS) aspires to help the homeless people-in-crisis, including those reintegrate into the community who sleep in public spaces, reside in via temporary aid, advocacy, and shelters, live in overcrowded homes, local partnerships. Part of this face domestic violence or lack social involves inspiring volunteers to support, with host families. Beyond befriend the homeless in their simply having a roof over their heads, own neighbourhoods, enabling a persons-in-crisis are also then given longer-term vision of full community time, stability, space and community support for reintegration. Many of that may help create bridges for them the homeless that HHOS serves towards reconciliation with their align with the primary demographic families or independence. identified by the street count—older Singaporean men.  OHN's volunteers engaging with Other initiatives have emerged residents of Jalan to provide this ministry of shelter Kukoh to better to the marginalised from other understand the demographics. Hope Initiative community, Alliance, an inter-religious group its views on of social service organisations, civil relationships, and groups and corporations, launched interests to host the Safe Sound Sleeping Places or volunteer to (S3P) initiative amidst the height support persons- of the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020. in-crisis / Image The missional call has been made courtesy of Solve manifest in the way Christian n+1 organisations have responded to 12 Methodist Message — August 2023

cash, but they become homeless because they run out of relationships.\" Volunteers There are many other organisations May these examples of radical hospitality gathering to undertaking important work move us to action: through church, prepare before in providing homes, such as individual, or self-initiated collectives, engaging with Humanitarian Organization for we can identify if there are homeless the Jalan Kukoh Migration Economics' (HOME) shelter individuals within our vicinities, build community, for female migrant workers or Tamar relationships with them, and see how where the Village's efforts to help former sex best they can be supported. In doing so, current OHN 2.0 workers move into their own homes. we may more fully embrace and fulfil the pilot is based Fundamentally, these initiatives share vision described by Jesus: / Image courtesy an understanding that being housed, of Solve n+1 and placed in a home, is crucial for Truly I tell you, the mental, physical and emotional whatever you did for one well-being as individuals, which of the least of these brothers cuts across age, gender, ethnic and socioeconomic lines.  and sisters of mine, you did for me. How can the church fully embrace the call to love and welcome the stranger, Matthew 25:40 (NIV) as so beautifully articulated by Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew? How can Methodist churches' we see the achievement of safety and responses to homelessness peace for the marginalised as being part of the pursuit of God's justice? During the first Covid-19 circuit breaker Each Methodist church is situated in in 2020, Ang Mo Kio Methodist Church, a unique neighbourhood. Many of our Ang Mo Kio Chinese Methodist Church churches may already have ongoing and Ang Mo Kio Tamil Methodist initiatives or partnerships to love the Church put their premises to good use homeless. Abraham Yeo of HHOS by registering as Safe Sound Sleeping suggests that, \"People don't become Places (S3Ps) with the Ministry of Social homeless because they run out of and Family Development (MSF), so that they could provide shelter to the homeless and displaced. Another joint initiative was between Faith Methodist Church and Queenstown Chinese Methodist Church, which opened their shared premises to female stayers. Toa Payoh Methodist Church's (TPMC) S3P started before the pandemic, and continues today. Its Rough Sleepers Ministry volunteers regularly go out to Toa Payoh Central to reach out to, and befriend, rough sleepers.  1 https://lkyspp.nus.edu.sg/research/social-inclusion-project/homelessness-street-count/key-findings 2 Ibid. August 2023 — Methodist Message 13

Dr Roland Chia is Chew Hock Hin Professor of Christian Doctrine at Trinity Theological College and Theological and Research Advisor at the Ethos Institute for Public Christianity. The Church's Role IN BEING IN THE WORLD I n his great Sermon on the Mount, Jesus nourishing, and illuminating—in a word, uses two metaphors to describe his life-giving. Put differently, the Church's Church: salt and light (Mt 5:13–16). being in the world must be truly sacramental: it must be the means by \"You are the salt of the earth,\" he insists. which the love, mercy and grace of God is \"[B]ut if salt has lost its taste, how shall its made manifest and real. saltiness be restored?\" The Church can only be present in the \"You are the light of the world,\" he adds. way that radiates the divine grace and \"In the same way, let your light shine love when it intentionally and sacrificially before others, so that they may see your serves the community. The Church is good works and give glory to your Father indeed called to such a service when she who is in heaven.\" is tasked to proclaim the gospel not just with her words, but also with her works. These two metaphors suggest that God's people must be present in the world In fulfilling this task, the Church is merely in a certain way. They suggest that the imitating her Lord (imitatio Christi), who Church's presence in the world must bring in the incarnation, \"emptied himself, by something that is absent—it must supply taking the form of a servant\" (Phil 2:7). what the world lacks. In her \"incarnational\" presence in the community, the Church seeks to follow More specifically, \"salt\" and \"light\" the example of Christ who \"came not to suggest that the Church's presence be served but to serve, and to give his life in the world should be enriching, as a ransom for many\" (Mt 20:28). 14 Methodist Message — August 2023

To truly serve the community, the Church there is no male and female\" (Gal 3:28). cannot stand aloof from the complex confluence of aspirations and challenges In her service to the community, the that characterise its common life. She Church must address the injustices must be energetically invested and perpetrated by the rich and powerful engaged in the community of which she against the weak and the marginalised. is a part even as she carefully discerns The Church must also speak out against the needs of its members and the forces the oppressive structures that are that are at work. responsible for the violation of the dignity and rights of the vulnerable and voiceless In a world marked by divisiveness and members of society. toxic rivalry, the Church can be a catalyst for enhancing solidarity and constructive The Church does this not because it seeks collaboration, which build relationships of to take the place of the State, or to be trust and invigorate civil society. To this engaged in party politics, or because end, the Church must work collaboratively she is anxious to establish her status in with other actors (religious as well as society. The Church has no interest in secular) in the service of the common such things. She challenges injustice and good. oppression because she wishes to restore the dignity of victims who are made in In order for the Church to serve the God's image and valued by their Creator. community, she must always be mindful of its weak and vulnerable members In her service to the community, the and stand in solidarity with them. Such Church seeks only to obey the command solidarity with and service to the needy that she received from her Lord to \"love was modelled powerfully by the early your neighbour\" (Mk 12:30–31). She knows Christians who refused to abandon that this unconditional love that she the sick and the dying during times of is commanded by God to show to the epidemics, but stayed and cared for them. neighbour—which includes even the enemy (Mt 5:43–45)—is the true evidence Not only must the Church stand in of her love for God (1 Jn 4:20). solidarity with the weak and those in need, she must also empower them. She Finally, the Church's service to the does this by eradicating those obstacles community is not motivated by the that prevent the weak and vulnerable misplaced ambition to create an earthly from participating more fully in society, utopia. Rather, it is prompted and and by creating opportunities for energised by true Christian hope. It is her participation. trusting response to God's invitation to his promised future in which his justice, The Church also serves the community by love and shalom will prevail, and God will exposing the dehumanising stratifications be all in all (1 Cor 15:28). in society that breed discrimination and exclusion. She does this firstly by removing social segregations within her own communal life and by embodying the truth that in Christ \"there is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, August 2023 — Methodist Message 15

By the Methodist Welfare Services Communications Team. / Photos courtesy of Methodist Welfare Services Seeing poverty (left) MWS Girlsʼ Residence in Singapore through provides 24/7 a new lens care in a safe and nurturing I n affluent Singapore where we rarely Natalie's and Deborah's situations say environment for see beggars or the homeless, few would nothing of their financial circumstances. girls aged 15 to imagine that the issue of poverty is worth a But the brokenness in emotional, mental 21 years old, who conversation. and relational well-being—was palpable. are at risk But is that because of how we see poverty? Widening the definition of poverty is necessary (right) MWS in order to address the whole person. employs a At the tender age of 11, Natalie* lost her trauma-informed father, who was her confidante and best Poverty is complex approach friend. For years, she could not process for families the grief and ended up mixing with bad We would never want to diminish the experiencing company and eventually lost interest in realities or struggles of those experiencing multiple complex her studies. At 15, she was referred to MWS poverty by trying to package it in a simplistic challenges Girls' Residence. way. It is a complex topic and numerous such as experts have spilled much ink on it. domestic strife, incarceration and chronic illness Deborah's husband was a proud man and he For many, \"poverty\" may conjure images was temperamental towards her. When he of starving children with flies swarming fell ill, she struggled emotionally to dedicate their faces. Many of us may also think that herself to his care. Due to past hurts, she poverty is the state of a group of people, harboured deep hatred towards him. whom we may refer to as \"the poor\". 16 Methodist Message — August 2023

The problem with this understanding is that \"We think sometimes that poverty is only it divides. By its nature, the label separates being hungry, naked, and homeless. people into hierarchical groups where \"the The poverty of being unwanted, poor\" is framed as helpless individuals whom society deems inept and in need of unloved, and uncared for is the greatest whatever we have, for which we decide. poverty. We must start in our own Poverty is not just about financials homes to remedy this kind of poverty.\" Another common perception is that Mother Teresa poverty is a situation of dire financial constraint or lack of material resources. A Christian perspective But poverty is not just about money. An individual who lacks fulfilment of any deep Corbett and Fikkert note in their book need or faces impoverishment in any facet When Helping Hurts that \"poverty is the of their well-being is in fact experiencing absence of shalom (peace)\". It is the result of poverty in that area. relationships—with God, self, others and the rest of creation—that do not work. By this For instance, many children from definition we are all susceptible to poverty, disadvantaged backgrounds or youths at and that levels the playing field. risk may experience a poverty of love, self- belief or hope. Founded in 1981, Methodist Welfare Services (MWS) is a Christian non-profit organisation Among those who are socially isolated or that serves people across all ethnicities and battling chronic illness, many experience religions. Today, we serve over 9,000 families poverty of physical health, as well as and individuals who are experiencing crippling mental and emotional anguish. different forms of poverty—including children from disadvantaged backgrounds Similarly, families who are struggling and youths at risk; seniors battling chronic with debt and financial distress may not illness or social isolation; and families only face monetary constraint, but also troubled by fractured relationships, financial marginalisation and a poverty of choice or woes and other forms of distress. even identity, as if they do not exist. But more than social service and healthcare, our work is really a mission to alleviate all kinds of poverty, to ignite God-given dignity into the hearts of all who experience poverty, by empowering them—us—to be who God has created us to be. Matthew 2:3-4 (NIV) says, \"Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.\" At the heart of Jesus' words is that people are created in God's image. The call to alleviate poverty is compelling because every person bears his likeness, regardless of their ethnicity, religion, economic status or social standing. Our Christian response to August 2023 — Methodist Message 17

14 METHODIST MESSAGE, JULY 2013

Seeing poverty in Singapore through a new lens poverty thereby recognises the dignity and enjoy appropriate autonomy and curated value of the person, and our goal is to see activities from urban farming to purposeful the person flourish. voluntary work in-house that makes for a vibrant and more dignified life. Because we believe that every person is made in God's image, every person has God- A transformative approach given potential. John 10:10 (NIV) tells us that \"The thief comes only to steal and kill and At MWS Girls' Residence, Natalie enjoyed a destroy; I have come that they may have safe environment and learnt to handle her life, and have it to the full.\" The ability to live anxiety and grief. After getting her N-Level life to the fullest honours the dignity that certificate, she is today working in a local God has given us. nursing home. A response that honours As for Deborah, her husband was subsequently referred to MWS Home Care These perspectives have a direct impact on & Home Hospice. The team not only guided MWS' way of care. her on caring for her husband physically, they were a huge source of emotional Firstly, instead of trying to \"rescue\" people support. Over time, he became gentler and from their despair, we aim for a more more loving, and even asked to be baptised. empowering approach. What this looks The couple eventually reconciled before he like is togetherness, walking alongside passed on peacefully. those experiencing poverty with them in the driving seat. Hence, no matter how Natalie's transformation was more than tempting it is to push through case plans so the outcome of therapy and rehabilitation. as to see clients' situations improve rapidly, The change in Deborah and her late our social workers are mindful of moving at husband's situation was more than just clients' pace and carefully considering their responses to medical aid and counselling. experiences, hopes and strengths. These are the results of restoration and growth towards God-given potential. Secondly, we seek holistic transformation by addressing the whole person. For This article was first published on MWS' website. instance, at MWS nursing homes, residents *Not her real name We love because God first loved us. We care because he loves all. We act because he has placed in our hearts a passion for these issues, such that we run towards all who face poverty, not as saviours but as those who have been saved. Visit mws.sg today and we welcome you to come alongside and support those we care about. August 2023 — Methodist Message 19

Prof Dennis Lee serves as Director, Strategic Planning and Capacity Building, at Methodist Missions Society. He was a Visiting Professor with Copenhagen Business School, a Fellow with Singapore University of Social Sciences, and an alumnus of Regent College (MTS '88 & MDiv '89). He worships at Kum Yan Methodist Church. Community work and Christian missions C ommunity work is a concept that we • Christian advocacy are not unfamiliar with, be it school- Christians have a duty to speak and act based community service projects or against social ills and unfair practices for volunteering in our spare time. In this those unable to fend for themselves, as we article, the theological underpinnings of grapple with what it means to be salt and Christian and church-based community light (Mt 5:13-16). work will be discussed. • Professional community development A new profession of community work has Types of community work emerged, complete with training courses, qualifications, and recognised salary scales. Firstly, what is community work? Some churches have been able to get Here are four different, if somewhat grants and funding to employ community overlapping, types of community work in workers to strengthen their missions. churches, some of which you might have participated in yourself. • A commune church Churches of the New Testament were a • Community service mass movement of people in communes Some churches set up projects which involved in the struggles of everyday life. help specific groups such as soup The concerns and work of the people, of the kitchens for the homeless and youth Christian community, and of God himself clubs. Church members may volunteer are one and the same. to participate, or provide the occasional prayer or gift. 20 Methodist Message — August 2023

Community work such as establishing Finally, the Holistic Mission view schools, training projects for unemployed asserts that missions are broader than youth, and welfare projects for the elderly evangelism. Evangelism is viewed as an are now common. Its roots are in distinct equal partner with social action as two minority (sub-)cultures and experiences sides of the same coin. Missions comprise of oppression or discrimination. Such all that God is doing through his church to indigenous-led (IPLC)1 initiatives and the bring about his Kingdom on earth. theological thinking behind them present a fascinating contrast and challenge Community development is an essential to the community work of 21st-century part of God’s mission, whereby the church urban churches. promotes active citizenship to enable people to work together to improve Integrating community work and human circumstances for the well- missions being of their communities.2 Christians engage in community work regardless of Sometimes, community work also takes whether it brings people into the church. us beyond Singapore’s shores. Missions We should be willing to work alongside involve sending individuals and groups non-Christians on specific issues in the across boundaries, most commonly community, while not embracing non- geographical, to carry out evangelisation, Christian world views and lifestyles. church planting, and community work. If one of the objectives of missions is church Now that we have a clearer understanding planting—the building of a commune of the perspectives of community work, church—how can community work be let’s explore some theological pointers integrated into our thinking and practice of related to Christian community work. holistic missions? Here are three different views we can consider. We can refer to Genesis 1:28 for the Creation Mandate. The starting point for Firstly, the Fundamentalist view any human involvement in God's work perceives the world as intrinsically evil should begin with the doctrine of Creation. and sold under sin until Christ’s return. In God’s creative order, human beings Evangelism is seen as a rescue mission— are stewards to care for and develop the to rescue as many souls as possible resources of the earth. As imago Dei,3 we before they are lost eternally. Social share in his creativity, moral judgement, action, other than minimal pastoral care and provision for needs. Everyone has for converts, is seen as a dangerous an equal claim to respect, dignity, a just diversion from mission. share in resources which are available, and a responsibility to contribute to the In the Church Growth view, it sees the community and environment. primary task of missions as the making of disciples and the numerical expansion Therefore, Christians should work of the church. It acknowledges social towards these ends and be willing to action as a secondary concern. The work alongside all people on the basis of tendency is to view community work as common humanity alone. Part of the task bait for evangelistic \"fishing\". The church is to enable people to see themselves as will gain credibility from its good works fully human, and not as powerless and and build relationships which will be dependent on other people. We also need fruitful in making disciples. Community to assess our community work practice work is a social service which facilitates in light of scripture and ensure that our church planting. August 2023 — Methodist Message 21

Community work and Christian missions practice enables and empowers the kind of Firstly, we need analysis—sociological, community which God desires. political, and theological—to understand why things are as they are and how In Micah 6:8, Micah paints a picture of a they ought to be. Secondly, we need our just yet merciful God, and we his people emotions as we respond to people in their as his agents. God has shown us what hurt, by aligning our feelings with God's is good—the very words used in the own heart. Thirdly, we need vision for Creation narrative in Genesis 1:26-31. As his how things should be in specific contexts, regents in a world misguided by sin, the and clarity so that we can set realistic, Restoration Mandate calls on us to act measurable, and achievable goals for our justly, embrace his lovingkindness to reflect community work. his covenantal promise, and live humbly, aware of the abiding presence of God. Finally, and most importantly, we need a Godly boldness that will enable us to work Finally, Philippians 2:6-7 reminds us that tirelessly, and to persevere in our missions at the heart of the Christian faith is the and ministry of reconciliation—reconciling message of God with us—Jesus emptied the fallen world to our Creator. himself and took on the form of a servant, who although rich became poor for our 1 The term \"Indigenous Peoples and local sake. We are called to follow the example communities\" and its acronym \"IPLC\" are of Jesus, not claiming our own rights, widely used by international organizations and but to take the role of servants. We need conventions to refer to individuals and groups to be willing to wash one another’s feet who self-identify as indigenous or as members and not refrain from costly involvement of distinct local communities. https://www.ipbes. in people's lives and struggles—not net/glossary-tag/indigenous-peoples-and-local- providing mere \"first aid\" activities but communities transformational changes. It is here we need the wisdom of God and not just the 2 Msebi, Mawethu, 2022. https://www.researchgate. ideology of community work. net/publication/363905435_ An_ Analysis_of_the_ Role_of_the_Missional_Church_in_Community_ When engaging in community work, we Development need four things. 3 Ref Gen 1:27: \"So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them.\" WE ARE HIRING! PROPERTY MANAGER To apply and view other Employment Opportunities at MCS, visit bit.ly/mcsjobs Alternatively, send your resume to [email protected]

Benny Bong has over 40 Rev Tay Li Ping is currently Koh Ai Jin is a registered years of experience as a pastoring at Christalite clinical counsellor with therapist, counsellor and extensive experience in trainer. He also conducts Methodist Chapel. Trained as marriage and family an Industrial-Organisational regular talks and webinars. counselling, mental health Benny has helmed MM’s You Psychologist before concerns and psychological becoming a pastor, Rev Tay is trauma. She runs her own & Your Family column for particularly interested in the more than 16 years and is a practice and currently member of Kampong Kapor intersection of Psychology serves as Vice-President of and Theology. She is married the Association of Christian Methodist Church. and has five sons. Counsellors (Singapore). Need advice? Scan the QR code or visit https://www.methodist.org.sg/mm-at- the-well/ to submit your question. Due to space constraints and repetition of topics, we may not be able to feature all questions submitted. Dating & Marriage However, the key word there is \"may\". Just because one is baptised or of the Should I start a relationship same denomination does not mean with a non-Christian? that you both will see eye to eye on every matter. It helps, but it is not I am a Christian and wondering if I a guarantee. What it should mean should start a relationship with a non- is that a Christian couple can have Christian. The guy is sincere and willing a similar foundation upon which to to try to go to church with me and know build a lifelong, satisfying relationship. about Christ. What should I do? Jo And when there are differences, they can perhaps have a better chance of Benny says resolving these amicably. Dear Jo, If your friend shows an interest in your If I assume that it is your hope this faith, this is good, but it should be out relationship will end in a lifelong marriage, of a genuine interest in what he sees is then being with someone of the same important to you. The testimony of your faith becomes an important consideration. devotion to God should spark a desire This is because having a similar faith may in him to want to know more. Becoming mean that there are more similarities a Christian should be because he has in ways of looking at the world, having found the answer to life's deeper needs, common values and aspirations. and not just as a way of finding a life partner. August 2023 — Methodist Message 23

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Dating & Marriage attend to mother's complaint about a leaky tap or respond to your wife's need to help My wife and mother don't get her with her work—you will have to decide. A along useful principle, and not the rule, to keep in mind is that the wife's interest often comes I have been married for less than two first. You can then attend to mother's needs years. My wife and my mother don't get later. The latter—\"collectively\"— means doing along. My mother thinks that my wife family activities together. If during these times, does not like her and is now threatening both women choose to sit apart, so be it. You to cut off all ties with me so that I will not cannot force them to come closer but you can be stuck in the middle. My wife does not provide opportunities for this. It is hoped that want to be too close to my mother. How with time, both women will feel more assured do we strike a balance between leaving of their standing with you and each other. our parents after marriage and honouring them at the same time? I am really stuck and praying that God will bring peace to my family. Helpless Benny says Family Dear Helpless, My parents treat the When trying to work out the redrawing helper badly of personal boundaries and loyalties, the biblical principle for newlywed couples is to My elderly parents have unreasonably \"leave and cleave\". This means, husbands and high expectations of domestic helpers. wives should re-evaluate which relationship When everyday things are not done their is of primary importance, and do the way, they get upset and raise their voices. necessary to leave old loyalties and make This causes a lot of tension at home. space for their spouses. Many helpers have come and gone, and I am afraid we will soon be barred by the So much for the easy response. But what Ministry of Manpower from hiring any happens when the conflict between the two more. How do I persuade my parents women does not make it easy for parties to that they need a mindset change about renegotiate new roles? Perhaps your mother helpers and to treat them kindly? Carol is worried of your wife's acceptance of her and your wife fears getting too close will Ai Jin says result in more disappointment and conflict. Dear Carol, May I suggest two things that may help? This may require you to persevere in Firstly, let time do its job. Two years into a achieving clear communication between marriage is still very early days. New routines your parents and helper. It would be need to be worked out and any reassurance of expedient to speak to each of your parents devotion needs time and action to take effect. individually, enlisting their help to be willing to cooperate and work with you on this. The second and more important ingredient, Often, it helps to provide a listening ear to is you. You need to work out your simply acknowledge their frustrations. relationship with both women independently and collectively. The former is about how you, on a one-to-one basis, show your love and loyalty to each. Mother and wife need to know that they are each important. Not necessarily equally important but important when and where it counts. If and when there is a conflict of interest—for example, do you August 2023 — Methodist Message 25

At The Well While detailed planning is not everyone's Ai Jin says strong suit, most households benefit from having a timetable and comprehensive task Dear Bad Friend, lists drawn up at the beginning. Instructions written down succinctly gives clarity, provides I am not sure if G is aware of how her order and consistency for everyone to agree behaviours are affecting you. Being late, being and adhere to. on the phone while with others are bad habits that demonstrate little consideration for the First, make a list of the helper's tasks, other. And if it's done perpetually, it will make detailing the steps required of each task. Note anyone angry. Perhaps, you may also feel your parent's expectations and translate that guilty for not being patient and forgiving of to simple instructions for your helper to follow. the person. If you have taken steps to help Do state also the method, frequency and her see your point of view and there is still no other pertinent details. Put the instructions in awareness, it compounds your frustrations. a place that is visible to everyone. Perhaps this is why you feel the need to disengage from her because the less you are As you communicate the instructions to the in contact with her, the less you'll need to be helper, do check that she understands and subjected to this emotional roller-coaster. have the helper demonstrate that she is able to achieve them. Suppose the tasks are not It is okay to draw boundaries to prevent achievable, they will have to be renegotiated yourself from feeling so negative, recognising with your parents, and have them agree with that you can't change a person nor do you you what can be done instead. have full control of how the friendship can turn out. Meantime, as you become busier, Frustrations and heightened emotions can do turn your attention to the aspects of your hijack your efforts for clear communication. life that are going well. Over time, you may Do schedule down times to give your helper come to feel better or find yourself better and parents physical space apart. This able to extend acceptance towards G. If she provides everyone an opportunity to calm realises how her behaviour has affected you, down before returning. you may change your mind then and decide to embrace the friendship. Afterall, being Friendships friends for over ten years is noteworthy. My friend is always late and on the phone when she's with me I have been friends with G for over ten years and our families are close. Lately, I am realising that G has not matured much despite us being in our early 30s. She is perpetually late (15–40 minutes), always on her phone, and defensive if you point this out. When we meet, she tends to unload her worries without asking how I am doing. She complains constantly about her job and love life even though I can see that sometimes it is her own fault. While there has been no major falling-out between us, I realise more and more she is someone I do not want to be friends with, as I have become busier with my own life. Is it wrong to want to cut her out of my life? Bad Friend 26 Methodist Message — August 2023

At The Workplace Dating & Marriage Oppressed and bullied at work Choosing a church with my fiancé It's been three months since I took over a managerial role. I am not My fiancé and I grew up in different supported or welcomed by my staff of Methodist churches and both of us four, my boss and assistant boss. I feel serve actively in our churches. We are very oppressed and bullied at work. I struggling to decide which church to feel like I need to outsmart them and attend after marriage. Both of us have break up their clan. our own community and ministry so it Oppression at work is really difficult for us to decide which church to attend. Can you advise us Li Ping says on how to decide and what factors we Dear Oppression at work, should consider? kopi Before you act, discern if the oppression Li Ping says you feel is truly due to your not being part Dear kopi, of \"their clan\". It is unusual, though not impossible, that both subordinates and Some factors to consider: (1) Do either supervisors alike see you as an outsider. of you sense the call to continue the work in any of your existing ministries or It is worth asking if your own actions communities? A couple I know stayed in have contributed to the resistance you one church in order to continue reaching are facing. This will not be easy as it will out to seeker friends in that church's cell require going beyond your subjective group. (2) What future ministry do you feelings, engaging in prayerful self- sense a calling to serve in as a couple? (3) reflection, and paying attention to How would the adjustment to the new feedback your colleagues may have community be for the one needing to given you since taking on this role. If no make the change? (4) Which community feedback has been given, consider asking would you want to raise your future for it from a colleague that you think is children in? the least unfavourable towards you. Take turns to visit each other's churches Whether your colleagues truly are in (or even a third!) for a season as you one camp against you, or if your own discern. Consult with mature Christians actions have contributed to the situation, in either of your churches or one outside prayerfully ask how you should then of your current communities who can act, remembering that as followers of provide wise, unbiased counsel. Christ, we are called to be salt and light (Matthew 5:13-14). Taking a combative The undergirding principle is where you and adversarial stance is likely to both sense God calling you to, which harden your colleagues' position against may or may not align with your human you. Consider actively trying to build reasoning. My husband and I felt called to relationships with them instead. go to his Methodist home church despite us both preferring my church in another If, however, despite your best and well- denomination. It was only later, when intentioned efforts, you still experience I heard the call to become a Methodist bullying, then seek the Lord's guidance pastor, that I realised that one reason I was on whether this is where he has called called out of my previous denomination you to be vocationally. was because it did not ordain women. August 2023 — Methodist Message 27

Benny Bong has over 40 years of experience as a therapist, counsellor and trainer. He also conducts regular talks and webinars. Benny has helmed the You & Your Family column for more than 16 years and is a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church. Mixed doubles M y wife and I had the opportunity Although some of the differences may recently to visit and observe up seem trivial, over time it could become close some couples—all married for more the pebble in one's shoe, causing than 20 years—who appeared as different annoyance that eventually leads to open as chalk and cheese. warfare or even a permanent schism. We may have heard of couples who fight over You, too, probably know of such couples. their toothpaste, because one spouse For example, where one spouse is a lark systematically begins from the bottom while the other an owl in their sleeping and carefully rolls up the tube while and waking patterns. One whose idea of a the other squeezes the tube wherever good holiday involves dashing off to cover convenient. as many sights as possible, while all the other wants is to stay put and relax. One a hoarder while the other a minimalist in their approach to possessions. I think you get the idea of what I mean by the differences which \"mixed doubles\" have to endure living with one another. 28 Methodist Message — August 2023

As a marital therapist, I have a Another characteristic is the recognition professional interest in this area. How that we all have faults. In strong is it that some marriages can weather relationships, there is no competition such turbulence and others do not? This over who has more faults or whose question highlights that it is not the faults are more damning. When spouses absence of differences nor even conflict start keeping score on how each has that makes a marriage strong. Even been disappointed, the relationship in spite of apparent mismatch, some descends to unforgiveness and bitterness. marriages are fundamentally strong. Remember not to be overly critical of each other and of yourself. I made some observations in our interactions with the long-married And like any enduring relationship, it couples. is important to set aside time regularly to give the marriage some TLC (tender One feature is humour, or a couple's loving care). If we take spa retreats ability to laugh about and with each other to care for our tired bodies or treat but not at each other. The difference eyebags, why not do the same for our is small but critical. You may complain tired relationships? Spending a few days about your spouse's need to check together, not immersing yourselves in repeatedly that the door is properly activity but sharing slow meals and quiet closed before leaving home but you also walks is a useful start. Then take time to accept that the anxiety has a good intent reflect on the past, maybe giggle about and in the greater scheme of things, the petty fights, or mourn jointly over amounts at most to an annoyance. past losses. Acknowledge and give thanks for where you currently are. Perhaps The phrase \"greater scheme of things\" recalibrate plans for the near future. encapsulates another coping feature. In Doing all this as part of a relationship's other words, the couple keeps in mind repair or maintenance can help build a the big picture, which helps them not mixed but effective doubles match. to \"sweat the small stuff\" or \"major in the minors\". They acknowledge that the irritations and annoyances do exist but there are bigger things holding them together, be it their children, shared history or hopes for the future. To be sure, this important glue may change over time. For example, the children will grow up and the couple may then band together to be better caregivers to their ailing parents. August 2023 — Methodist Message 29

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Worship Amelia Leo is a Programmes Executive at the Methodist School of Music. She worships at Fairfield Methodist Church with her husband, Joshua, and daughter, Faith. Inclusive worship PSN, ASD, GDD, CP. Any idea what they calm down. The uncle who recently had mean? leg surgery would feel less left out if the worship leader said, \"Please stand, in body In my previous workplace, I had the or in spirit, for the Scripture reading.\" And privilege of working in support of the the girl with Down syndrome who loves to special needs community, and these were sing would join in with gusto, if only the some of the terms I learnt: PSN refers songs had simpler words and rhythms. to a person with special needs, ASD is autism spectrum disorder, GDD is global Taking universal design into account may developmental delay, and CP is cerebral result in changes to our worship services palsy. I also learnt of the efforts that our that are not in line with our personal or society has taken to increase awareness, stylistic preferences. However, Philippians acceptance and inclusion of persons with 2:3-4 (NIV) says, \"Do nothing out of selfish special needs. One example of this is the ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in implementation of universal design in new humility value others above yourselves, building projects and in the renovation of not looking to your own interests but each existing infrastructure. The objective is to of you to the interests of others.\" May God make the physical environment accessible give us the courage to step out of our to as many people as possible, regardless comfort zones and welcome all persons— of age, disability or other factors. including those with disabilities—to be Increasingly, we see more lifts, ramps, part of the conversation with God! Braille on the walls, accessible parking lots, and even sensory level notices at The Methodist School of Music museum exhibits. is organising a singing retreat for families, Universal design is steadily becoming including those with special needs children, the norm in architecture, but what about on 9 September 2023, 9.00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m., in our churches? Besides the physical at Pentecost Methodist Church. aspects of our church buildings, could we also plan our worship services with The worship and workshops at the retreat universal design in mind, so as to enable will be designed with the principles of persons of varied abilities and disabilities inclusivity and universal design in mind. to worship together? More information can be Perhaps the elderly aunty who cannot see found here: or hear very well would appreciate having https: //msmusic .edu.sg/ a printed bulletin with large font. The boy events/tfws-day2/ with autism would love it too, because knowing what will happen next helps him August 2023 — Methodist Message 31

Walking alongside you with compassion and care ESTABLISHED SINCE 2000 For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord. Romans 8:38–39 HOSANNA BREAVEMENT SERVICES PTD LTD

Christopher Lim is the LCEC Chairperson at Grace Methodist Church. / Photo courtesy of Christopher Lim Are we doing enough to work together? I've been attending Grace Methodist Church since my secondary school days, when I became a Christian through The Boys' Brigade. Through the privilege of serving in leadership positions, and in various committees or workgroups at the Annual Conference, I became aware of strategic issues that were much bigger than the local church, which cannot be managed by local churches alone. At the same time, churches are dealing with a barrage of negative influences, while being confronted with stagnant or even declining church membership. An observation I've made is that it is to the detriment of churches if they refuse to stay relevant or are too inward-looking. As Christians, we are here to be the hands and feet for God’s agenda. As Methodists, there is so much more we can do together as a united OneMCS, especially when some churches have resources or expertise in certain ministries. We need not compete or duplicate our efforts, but instead, should optimise our collective resources. (from left) Joshua, Kristen, Sharon (Christopher's wife), Instinctively, we know we are stronger together but are we Jireh and Christopher doing enough to work together? We can start by doing things with our sister churches, to solve problems or carry out projects, whether it is for awareness, equipping or outreach. Of course, this may lead to some friction. But when we come together as a family of God, we put on the mind of Christ and focus more on what we have in common instead of our differences. Kopi kakis by Lau Peng Leong, Yen Tun I and Zachary Yong August 2023 — Methodist Message 33

TTC OPEN HOUSE 23 August (Wednesday), 8.30 a.m. – 2.00 p.m. Trinity Theological College, 490 Upper Bukit Timah Road, S678093 Register by 20 August, via https://www.ttc.edu.sg/english/slideshow/ttc-open-house-2023/ Considering a theological education? Do you desire to be equipped to serve God more effectively in the church and marketplace? Is God calling you to be theologically trained for ministry? Visit Trinity Theological College during the Open House for lectures and worship at our chapel. Dine with our community, tour our campus and interact with our faculty and students. Organised by Trinity Theological College 2023 DISCIPLE FACILITATORS’ TRAINING 4-5 September (Monday – Tuesday), 9.00 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. for DISCIPLE Red, Green, Purple, Gold (Chinese) 7-8 September (Thursday – Friday), 9.00 a.m. – 6.00 p.m. for DISCIPLE 1 (English) 7 September (Thursday), 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. for DISCIPLE 2 and 3 (English) 8 September (Friday), 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m. for DISCIPLE 4 (English) Methodist Centre, 70 Barker Road, Singapore 309936 Register by 15 August, via http://disciple.methodist.org.sg/index.php/en/component/rsform/ form/11:disciple-facilitators-training $140 – $200 depending on the module The DISCIPLE Facilitators’ Training programme is a four-module course that will equip you to lead the DISCIPLE Bible Study. DISCIPLE 1 (Red) – Becoming Disciples Through Bible Study DISCIPLE 2 (Green) – Into the Word Into the World DISCIPLE 3 (Purple) – Remember Who You Are DISCIPLE 4 (Gold) – Under the Tree of Life *Pre-requisite: DISCIPLE Facilitators must be pastors or ministry staff who are theologically trained, or lay personnel who have gone through DISCIPLE. Organised by Disciple Agency THE FAITH WE SING 2023: A SPECIAL ALLELUIA 9 September 2023 (Saturday), 9.00 a.m. – 11.30 a.m. Pentecost Methodist Church, 4 Pasir Ris Drive 6, S519420 Register by 12 Aug at https://msmusic.edu.sg/events/tfws-day2/ $25 per family (up to 8 persons) A singing retreat about family for Christian families. All families are welcome, including those with special needs children! What’s in store for you and your family: - Discover God’s desire for families (both biological and spiritual) through song - Sing old and new Christian songs that help families live up to their calling - Experience what inclusive intergenerational worship could be like - Participate and bond over music-making activities as a family Organised by Methodist School of Music Information prepared by Tan Yan An