Methodist Message Aug 2020

ISSN 0129-6868 MCI(P) 027/11/2019 THE METHODIST CHURCH IN SINGAPORE Vol 122 No 8 AUGUST 2020 METHODIST CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE NATION

Church life 4 Contents Methodists in the world 21 1 Bishop’s Message Christian living 24 3 Disciple facilitators’ training 2020 THEFiawcihnrshsMtif“tttaIo,MpnhlCprbslCmle:SrtoeS/ohanu”aa/sWigd.rtetsc(iiiTnlPasoHnuhaalsynegentvtAuaenemprsatT sle+crein.oStemc6snmdsoAd5oWaemptigpPe6,clhee/r4ttsPMatamha7ewtayCb8sctBtiehS-stlayh4ewerRopows7ufhupOa8oiwtawnr6lAmsBtlihdaslirlDnsavefonosiepnynCoaupnpogtnAdiu,ydbtdrrchaoeSiahneptuuTauedhspnbrotausyedlGnemoil:Gae gluRtbyrtonceaoeOorrrune.seu)Utc,ppadeP!coivtnsee! 5 Church Profile—Telugu Methodist Church 6 One MCS—ETAC Highlights 7 Home—Things you never knew about The Methodist Church in Singapore (or your pastors) 10 News—Called through a book 12 News—A refuge in times of trouble 15 Home—Faith and deeds 16 Home—The greatest showmen 18 Home—Sharing salt and light 21 Welfare Services 23 Missions 24 You & Your Family 25 Hymns & Songs 26 TRAC Bible Matters 28 Soundings 31 Book Review—The Invisible People: The Bus Driver; Auntie Goes Home; Uncles at Work 32 Home—What does being a Methodist mean to you? 33 Looking Ahead 34 In memoriam EDITORIAL BOARD The official monthly publication of The Methodist Church in Singapore. Published material does not necessarily reflect the official view of The Methodist Church. Adviser and Publisher All Scripture quoted is based on the English Standard Version unless otherwise stated. Dr Anthony Goh Chairperson 70 Barker Road #06-04 Singapore 309936 Council on Communications 6478-4793 | 6478-4763 message.methodist.org.sg | www.methodist.org.sg Editor [email protected] Sheri Goh fb.com/Methodist.SG @methodist.sg Sub-editor Tan Chiu Ai Design & Production by Londonbob Design — Printed by Adred Creation Print Pte Ltd Have something to say or share? Email us at [email protected] Communications Executive Jason Woo Proofreader Tan Sheng Ling

BISHOP’S MESSAGE Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung was elected Bishop of The Methodist Church in Singapore in 2016. He served as President of the Chinese Annual Conference from 2008 to 2016. Methodist contributions to the nation “I urge that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be made for all people, for kings and all who are in high positions, that we may lead a peaceful and quiet life, godly and dignified in every way. This is good, and it is pleasing in the sight of God our Savior.” (1 Tim 2:1–3) E very August, Singapore celebrates National Day, and this year is our 55th. The early years, after independence was abruptly thrust upon us in 1965, were politically challenging and difficult. Our neighbours were sceptical of our survival prospects as we faced massive unemployment, a housing crisis and a lack of natural resources. But Singapore prevailed over those difficult times through the combined effort of a government’s exceptional leadership and a people’s indomitable spirit. We steadily progressed from our impoverished beginnings to the prosperity we enjoy today, thanks to the sacrifice of our pioneers’ blood, sweat and tears as they struggled together, regardless of race, language or religion. We, who come after, need to continue building on this foundation and defend our homeland at all cost. The Methodist Church has contributed socially to Singapore since it started in 1885. When Singapore gained independence, new government policies presented us with the irrefutable responsibility to increase our contributions to the nation and society. |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 1

Methodist contributions to the nation One of our important beliefs is the pursuit of social holiness—taking action to show care and to help the poor, needy and vulnerable in society. That is why we include in The Book of Discipline a section on “The Social Principles of The Methodist Church in Singapore”. These principles are based on a biblical and theological foundation. I call on all Singapore Methodists to a response of faith to these social principles, which include: • family life: marital relationship and divorce; parent–child relationships; God’s gift of sex; birth control and abortion; infertility and assisted methods of reproduction • the stewardship of wealth: property and possessions; a simple lifestyle and consumerism; gambling • the responsible use of power: political responsibilities; military service; the use of technology • social responsibilities in community life: multi-religious understanding; multi-racial harmony; rights of women; rights of the aged; rights of children; rights of the disabled; rights and social responsibilities • serving others with God’s love: caring for the poor; the promotion of workers’ welfare; the provision of health care; caring for the dying and euthanasia; ministry to drug addicts; ministry to prisoners; ministry to foreign domestic workers and labourers • caring for God’s world: conservation of natural resources; building a world community Based on these social principles, the Methodist Church has been fulfilling its social responsibilities through concrete action. Schools: Our 15 primary and secondary schools and junior colleges include: single-sex schools, co-ed schools, heartland schools, independent schools, private schools and international schools. They offer quality education to more than 21,000 students from different ethnic groups and social backgrounds. Their alumni serve the people of our nation in every important domain. Pre-school centres: MCS began establishing such centres in 1953 to not only provide early childhood education but also inculcate values in young minds, build character and prepare them to be good citizens; we were one of the first social organisations to do so. Serving the vulnerable community: With financial assistance from the government, we have set up 18 home-support and service centres, as well as two sizeable convalescent homes to look after vulnerable groups in the community, such as the elderly, the physically weak, single parents and those with special needs. We hope to extend warmth and care, and enable them to live a positive life. It is the responsibility of every citizen and social and religious organisation to participate in nation building and help bring about social harmony, progress and prosperity. MCS is able to contribute to society through working with other social, religious and community organisations to fulfil our shared national values and to build a home that we cherish. We wish our nation blessings of strength and warmth. |2 METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020

Coming Up ¢ Visuals courtesy of Disciple Agency DISCIPLE facilitators’ training 2020 T he DISCIPLE Bible Study Programme was developed by a team of pastors For an in-depth understanding of the and lay persons in the United Methodist Church, and is intended to DISCIPLE COURSE, go to help Christians engage with the Bible in small groups. It pioneered the https://message.methodist.org. use of video in Bible study, which enables small groups to draw upon the sg/mcs-focus-disciple-agency/ work of scholars, combined with personal Bible reading and dynamic group or scan the QR code discussion, to aid understanding of the Bible. The Bible is the text for this Bible Study Programme and is a tool which God has used to transform lives, A new DISCIPLE course will be and not just inform minds. starting soon! For more information and updates DISCIPLE Facilitators’ Training on the course times/dates: Disciple Agency (DA) conducts training for facilitators to run the DISCIPLE https://tinyurl.com/disciple2020 Bible Study Programme in local churches. In order to be eligible to trained [email protected] as facilitators, you must: 6765-5301 • Must be theologically-trained, OR for lay applicants with no theological training, must have graduated from at least D1, and also have graduated from the course they are applying to facilitate (e.g. if applying to be trained as facilitator for D3, they must have themselves completed and graduated from D3). Lay applicants require recommendation by their pastor. • For both clergy and lay, if applying to be trained as facilitators for D2, D3, or D4, they must first have completed training as facilitator for D1. Important Notes: • DISCIPLE: BDTBS is a “prerequisite” for DISCIPLE: IWIW, DISCIPLE: RWYA, and DISCIPLE: UTOL. • You are encouraged to first complete the DISCIPLE course before attending the training. For example, to register for BDTBS leaders’ training after you have successfully completed BDTBS course. |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 3

DISCIPLE From Sunday schools at age four with the neighbours Through the disagreeable teens, to a questioning young adult facilitators’ training 2020 God was, is and will always draw me close to Him Through encounters, rebukes and gentle reminders, You draw me close Since 10 March 2020, I have been conducting A season of flawed churches and leaders the DISCIPLE class via Zoom. Evoking disappointment, sadness and ultimately apathy We have journeyed with the Patriarchs, Then You draw me close yet again sung praises and lamented with the Marking this Discipleship class our meeting place Psalmists, marvelled at the majestic works of Knowing the beautiful life you have planned for me God and His sovereignty in the history On this earth and in heaven of Israel. We are crossing into the Learning, understanding, appreciating and seeing New Testament in two weeks’ time The importance of our hearts over deeds and looking forward to radical discipleship. You planted new friends for this season Pastor BK (May 2020) We disagree, pray, laugh and encourage And the veil is lifted, on the march of my Christian heartbeat Winnie with her DISCIPLE group My rock stabilises and my heart rejoices from Wesley MC in Dec 2018 I step out in courage and in inspiration To live and breathe as you imagined Sensitive to your loving beckoning calls Drawing closer to my God Winnie Pua (DISCIPLE 1) Wesley Methodist Church |4 METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020

Church Profile ¢ Telugu Methodist Church The Rev Anil Samuel is the Pastor-in-Charge of Telugu Methodist Church. / Photos courtesy of Telugu Methodist Church Computer classes for migrant workers Committed to the great commission T elugu Methodist Church, which was constituted 2008, The hostel or dorm ministry of the church brings the gospel envisions to reach the Telugu-speaking community to hundreds in the migrant workforce. In recent years, God in Singapore for Christ. has opened doors to reach young brothers at a Megayard. SEVA, an outreach ministry to the migrant workers at Initially, the church witnessed to the large number of Westlite in Mandai, focuses on addressing health- and foreign brothers, but now there are an increasing number work-related issues through counselling. It also equips the of families with children who worship the Lord with us. dorm residents in basic computer skills. This has paved the way for the greater pastoral care. Though the needs of these two groups may vary, their On a regular basis, the church organises special events on common socio-cultural interests bring them together to public holidays and on special occasions for outreach and make further inroads for the gospel. bonding. These events are a great time of fun and learning from one another to serve better and glorify God. Sharing Christ and equipping disciples to be obedient and committed to the Great Commission (Matt 28:18–20) Join us! You, too, can be part of this ministry and make a continue to be the emphasis in the Telugu ministry. difference by prayer and sharing your resources, to give hope and inspire lives for Christ. Worship services are held at 7 p.m. every Sunday; Holy Communion is administered on the first Sunday of every Sunday worship services month. With the vibrant worship, Word and witness, many friends have been drawn to Christ and the church TELUGU METHODIST CHURCH fellowship. Praise the Lord! (Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference) Families find the church to be a safe haven for spiritual Tamil Methodist Church nurture, bonding and charity. Regular prayers, Bible studies 8 Short Street, Singapore 188214 and Disciple Bible training are held for members to grow http://www.sgtmc.org in their faith. Children enjoy the weekly Sunday school, [email protected] which allows them to be grounded in the Christian faith. 8611-7374 Telugu Service: Sunday 7.00 p.m. The church organises |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 5 special events on public holidays and special occasions

One MCS ¢ ETAC Highlights The Rev James Nagulan was elected President of Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference (ETAC) in 2016 for the quadrennium. He is also Pastor-in-Charge of Tamil Methodist Church (Short Street) and Seletar Tamil Methodist Church. / Photos courtesy of ETAC Ministry goes on! The Emmanuel Praise Virtual Choir during the combined ETAC service Sunday School resumed online on 7 June 2020, and a Google site was set up with resources for SS teachers and parents W hen COVID-19 landed on Singapore’s shores, ETAC The ETAC LCEC meeting was conducted over Zoom knew that it would affect our lives: our families, our work, the community at large and, without a These worship services, conducted both in English and doubt, our church life. Tamil, have reached Singaporean members and friends, and other Christians, especially the Tamil-speaking, The introduction of circuit breaker measures meant we around the world. Online Sunday School classes saw could not leave our homes for work (unless we were parents and children learning together in meaningful essential workers), school or church worship services. spiritual conversations. Social interaction within communities was not possible until we incorporated the wonderful opportunities afforded by As we view the entire ministry, in its current format and modern technology into our thinking. We took the church presentation, we may say that it has given birth to a online to our various congregations, and served them in “virtual church”. But this is not the correct meaning of their homes. the Body of Christ, which can never be virtual. However, in making effective use of this presented opportunity, We began with Sunday worship services, as conducted in spite of church buildings being closed, the Church within the our respective churches. We then introduced remains open and will continue to be so. Though we were modified Sunday School lessons for the various ages physically unable to meet, we continue to be a Church— groups; Bible studies, Praise & Prayer meetings, Youth to worship, pray, study and spread the Word, and have Fellowship, and WSCS gatherings and worship, and the Christian fellowship. much welcomed migrant ministry worship services were brought to the online platforms. “Zoom” became Praise God that the Church ministry can go on, and the buzzword, and we found creative ministry ideas to effectively. engage various age groups and needs. What a God-given opportunity to reach out and share the church ministry! Our first online worship service was a combined ETAC service. Our objectives were to unite our eight churches in prayer and worship; we sought God’s wisdom, His guidance during these unprecedented times. In the weeks that followed, each church had their own live and recorded worship services. We were glad that our congregations have been very receptive of these worship services— much more than we had anticipated. Our seniors and home-bound members have welcomed this opportunity to worship in as close a fashion as being in the church. |6 METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020

Home ¢ MCS 135 Emilyn Tan is a writer at Salt&Light, an independent, non-profit Christian news and devotional website with a passion for kingdom unity, and a vision of inspiring faith to arise in the marketplace. / Photos courtesy of the Methodist Archives and History Library Things you never knew about The Methodist Church in Singapore (or your pastors) Did you know that Methodism in Bedok Methodist Church as it was in 1946–52 had a Singapore began with a dream of the decidedly kampung feel Singapore harbour? Telok Ayer Chinese MC was constructed in 1924 and is a James Thoburn and William Oldham, founders of Methodism national heritage site in Singapore, were received at the harbour on 7 Feb 1885, by Charles Phillips, who had been instructed in a dream to Wesley’s Fort Canning home was granted in 1907 by the meet the two missionaries he had been praying for. Singapore governor then in recognition of the Methodist Church’s contributions to missions and education—notable Here’s another nugget: MPH bookstores was originally a then and continuing even today. press for the Methodist mission, and used to stand for Today, Wesley MC has more than 7,000 members. “Methodist Publishing House”. When asked what makes him a Methodist, the Rev Benjamin Lee, a pastor at Wesley, says: “I became a Methodist Telok Ayer Chinese Methodist Church is another archival because this is where God anchored me in His Word after treasure. It is gazetted as a National Monument, as the a season where I went to different churches. I stayed a church building at Telok Ayer Street stood through World Methodist because I see fellow Methodists desiring and War II as a refuge for Singaporeans. It retains its unique encouraging each other to live out the Word, growing in architecture that blends Chinese and Western styles. the Word not just in their minds, but through their acts as well—truly incarnate faith.” As the grand old dame that is The Methodist Church in Singapore (MCS) celebrates its 135th anniversary, we take |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 7 a walk through just a few corners of its rich history, and ask pastors what it means to them to be part of the Church. Fanning faith The year was 1885. The seeds of Methodism in Singapore were planted by Dr James Thoburn and the Rev William Oldham, missionaries sent out by the South India Conference. Upon arrival, they held evangelistic rallies over two weeks, and those who responded to the Gospel call formed the first Methodist church congregation in Singapore—what is now Wesley Methodist Church (MC). This makes Wesley the oldest Methodist church in Singapore. The land on which Wesley MC sits was a gift from the Singapore governor in 1907, in recognition of their contributions to society

Things you never knew about The Methodist Church in Singapore (or your pastors) Christian disciple is true to Scripture and the way God created us to love God by loving our neighbour. “Thirdly, Wesley stressed an inclusive spirit for all people, even the ones with whom we disagree. “If Methodism can strive to show such inclusiveness and respect to those with whom we strongly disagree, then I believe we will be true to the teaching and spirit of John Wesley and Scripture. “And I will be humbled, and happy to be called a Methodist—until the day Christ returns, and we all grow up and out of these temporary labels that still divide us.” Anglo Chinese School started with 13 students in Chinatown A 1928 photo of students celebrating the Christmas Cantata at Fairfield Girls’ School, which was started by Sophia Steering education Blackmore in 1888 with eight Nonya girls In 1886, the first Methodist school, Anglo-Chinese School, Meeting societal needs was started by Oldham at 70 Amoy Street with 13 students. They were taught English in the night and Chinese in the Methodist Welfare Services was founded and registered afternoon, hence the school’s name. as an Institution of Public Charter (IPC) in 1981. Its 19 centres and outreach programmes serve the poor and The 1972 charismatic renewal that swept through Anglo- needy, elderly, disadvantaged children and at-risk youths, Chinese School, and was even covered by the mainstream with the aim of enabling “all to have life to the full”, press, took on the moniker “The Clock Tower Revival” according to its description on giving.sg. after the iconic clock tower at the school. Elaborating on the twin pillars of piety and mercy, the MCS now has 15 schools under its wing, including primary Rev Dr Daniel Koh, former Chairperson of the MWS Board and secondary schools and a junior college. It also of Governance, explains: “’Acts of piety’ remind us about operates the Methodist School of Music. the importance of being nurtured and shaped by spiritual disciplines like prayer, worship, singing spiritual songs, ACS alumnus, the Rev Dr Gordon Wong, President of the MCS reading the Bible and fasting. Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC), gives “three quick reasons” why he is a Methodist: “Firstly, because of the grace and “‘Acts of mercy’ reminds us that ours is not, and must not providence of God. I was born into a family that worshipped be, a privatised faith. There is a social dimension where God in a Methodist church, and I was sent to study in a we express our faith by reaching out to people, especially Methodist school for 12 years—and I am grateful for this. those whom I refer to as the vulnerable and voiceless, the poor and powerless. “Secondly, because I believe that John Wesley’s (and Methodism’s) emphasis on both ‘works of piety’ and ‘works of mercy’ as the essential marks of a faithful |8 METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020

Kampong Kapor church in Middle Road in 1987 “The different Christian denominations are like different instruments in an orchestra, all playing the same “In short, the Methodist tradition offers a way that is basic melody. By celebrating our distinctives faithfully, both Biblical and balanced, and a holiness that is both together we contribute to the proclamation of biblical personal as well as social. And we say we can do this by Christianity and bring out God’s manifold wisdom.” the grace of God.” So what makes a Methodist? Lending leadership “My parents got me baptised at Geylang Chinese MC as a MCS became independent in 1976 from its Malaysian baby. I was brought up at Paya Lebar Chinese MC until my counterpart in a restructuring. It has had its own Bishop since. early teens,” says the Rev Dr Lorna Khoo, pastor at Holland Village MC. “As a 15-year-old, I went to Trinity MC and fell Structurally, it is made up of the Chinese Annual Conference in love with Christ there. (CAC), Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference (ETAC) and TRAC, which together includes 46 local churches and a “It is the Methodist key distinctive—radical holiness in membership of 44,000. heart and life, plus an outflow in social holiness—that kept me in the Methodist Church.” Bishop Emeritus Rev Dr Robert Solomon, bishop from 2000 to 2012, who wrote the lyrics to “The People of the Way” The Rev Malcolm Tan, Pastor-in-Charge of Covenant for MCS135, was born into a Methodist family and thus was Community MC, says: “Methodist Christianity, like other an “accidental” Methodist. authentic Christian traditions, is rooted in the ancient faith once given to the saints (Jude 3). “Then I began to read the writings of John Wesley and studied the wonderful hymns of Charles Wesley and “It seeks to follow the catholic, apostolic and orthodox became an ‘intentional Methodist’. tradition which defends the divinity of our Lord Jesus Christ and the worship of the One God as the Father, Son “I learnt to follow Jesus in the company of the Wesley and Holy Spirit according to the consistent witness of the brothers. The primary emphasis on the doctrine of grace New Testament.” in Christ, holiness through the sanctifying work of the Holy Spirit and Christian discipleship as being perfected He affirms how, among its doctrines, the Church in God’s love is what marks Methodist doctrine, devotion upholds “both personal and social holiness—that is, the and discipleship. redemption of society. Our own salvation should move us to positively influence human society for the better. “It expresses itself in personal and social holiness, in the We believe that the world can be transformed in a great central teaching of Scripture that we are to love God and measure even before the second coming of Christ. Hence our neighbours through evangelism and social ministries. we want to love God and our neighbours. This is done in the context of vibrant Christian community. “These reasons are characteristic of Christianity in a “All these are reasons why I remain a Methodist, knowing Wesleyan expression which I have found helpful in my that the distinctives of Methodism enrich the larger walk with the Lord in the life of His Church. They do Christian community. not stop us from learning from others. Indeed, in the universal Church of Christ, we practise the exchange of gifts with brothers and sisters in Christ from various confessions, that everything will find their unity in Christ Jesus eventually. To Him be all the glory forever.” This article originally appeared at https://saltandlight.sg/ news/things-you-never-knew-about-the-methodist-church-in- singapore-or-your-pastors/ |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 9

Home ¢ The Rev Dr Edwin Tay was appointed principal of Trinity Theological College on 1 July 2020. An ordained minister of the Chinese Annual Conference, he grew up attending Telok Ayer Chinese Methodist Church, and is an alumnus of Anglo-Chinese School and Anglo-Chinese Junior College. / Photos courtesy of the Rev Dr Edwin Tay As an ACJC choir committee member in 1988/89 and 1990/90. (The Rev Dr Tay is in the second row, fourth from left) Called through a book I n my family, I am a second-generation Christian. Attending church on Sundays The bagpipe band of the Boys’ Brigade was a practice that began early in my life as part of what my family would 12th Singapore Company in 1987. do on the weekends. My parents and grandparents started attending Telok (The Rev Dr Tay is first from left) Ayer Chinese Methodist Church (TACMC) in the early ’70s. It was there that I was baptised as a child and nurtured in the Christian faith. The Rev Dr Tay with his wife, Angela, and The reality of God and that of the death and resurrection of Jesus didn’t really daughters Phoebe grip me in any spiritually significant way until I was a teenager. But this did (left) and Chloe not mean that going to church was of no spiritual value to me before then—the Church community formed me in important ways that provided the biblical and theological framework to make sense of my life in God’s world. Worthy of note were the Methodist Youth Fellowship (MYF) camps. They ignited my spiritual passion, gave substance to what fellowship with Christ and His followers is about, and challenged me to take God and His Word seriously. Another important event were the renewal and revival meetings I attended. Held during the weekdays over a few nights, they were conducted in Chinese and Hokkien, and were always well-attended as far as I can recall. As a boy, I was there only because my parents had brought me along. I was too young to appreciate the preaching and usually did my own thing while the adults did theirs. But the hymns and revival choruses that were sung have stayed with me. The significance of these meetings only became evident to me only in hindsight. Whether Sunday School, MYF, the church choir or revival meetings, my identity as an integral member of God’s people was shaped by these ministries from when I was a young age. |10 METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020

The first 12 years of my formal education were spent at But I still felt inadequate. The more I read, the more I the Anglo-Chinese School. Towards the end of my second realised that I needed formal theological training for year at Anglo-Chinese Junior College, I felt the call of God ministry. So I enrolled in part-time theological studies to enter the Christian ministry. Interestingly, it was a call while working in FES and later in TACMC as a member of that came after I had read the biography of the Methodist the pastoral staff team. My growing burden to acquire evangelist from China, Dr John Sung. I was thrilled to read a theological education led eventually to postgraduate about the revival meetings he had conducted in 1935 in studies in the United Kingdom. my home church. It was then that I made the connection with the revival meetings I had attended as a young Many of my colleagues at Trinity Theological College were boy. They were part of Sung’s legacy that shaped the ordained as ministers before they became theological spirituality of my home church. educators in the seminary—it was the other way round for me. Upon return from the UK, I began to serve as a But I was also ambivalent. While deeply impressed by lecturer in theology before I was ordained as a minister. Sung’s remarkable sense of purpose in life, I was sorely disappointed that I didn’t have a similar resoluteness. God’s call upon our lives does not take place in a vacuum. “What am I to do with my life?” This had been an The circumstances surrounding each person’s calling will unresolved question for me, especially in light of what be different. But regardless of such differences, the nature my future was to be after my A-Level examinations. This of our calling will be made clearer when we embrace led to me doing some serious soul-searching, about the the circumstances that confront us as the God-ordained way I had been living my life, for several months. setting for living out our God-appointed vocations. One evening, in the quiet of my room, I felt the call of God and gave my life to Christ for Christian service. There was no audible voice, just an unusual clarity within myself and overwhelming sense of conviction about dedicating my life to the cause of Christ. The Rev Dr Tay with members of his home church, TACMC, at his ordination in 2015 Many are called through gathered assemblies; I was called Regardless of how challenging our present reality may through books. I began to devour the biographies of John be, the Psalmist encourages us to view the whole span Wesley, Jonathan Edwards and other well-known Christians. of our lives through the lenses of God’s “goodness” and Upon graduating from the National University of Singapore, “mercy”. Understanding God’s providential dealings with I joined the Fellowship of Evangelical Students (FES) as a us through these lenses, we step forth with courage into staff worker. Having to guide student leaders, my scope the future as our Shepherd calls us by name. I have heard of my reading was widened from more devotional and my name called many years ago in the quiet of my room. biographical writings to books on apologetics and theology. Since then, I have come to recognise his voice better. The writings of John Stott, J. I. Packer, Martyn Lloyd Jones and A. W. Tozer were especially helpful. |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 11

News ¢ By the MCS Communications Team / Photos courtesy of Aldersgate MC, AMKMC, AMKCMC, AMKTAC, Faith MC, Queenstown CMC and Toa Payoh MC S3P at Aldersgate MC A refuge in times of trouble W ith church buildings left empty during the The work included liaising with HHOS and the MSF, circuit breaker, these Methodists decided that providing amenities like Wi-Fi and laundry facilities, as loving their neighbours didn’t have to be put well as hospitality duties. It was a learning experience for on hold. They decided to put their premises to good use all involved. By connecting with their guests and listening by registering as Safe Sound Sleeping Places (S3Ps) with to their stories, the team gained greater understanding of the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF), a group of people who are all too easily overlooked when so that they could provide shelter to the homeless and it comes to societal support. displaced—they are a reminder that we can always find ways to serve the community. Before COVID-19, the three churches were already regularly working together to serve their neighbourhood community. Each church has a different story on how they were led This shelter project was an extension of their ongoing to this ministry. For the leaders of sister churches Ang Mo efforts, which include home visits and grocery deliveries. Kio Methodist Church (AMKMC), AMK Chinese Methodist Church (AMKCAC), and AMK Tamil Methodist Church AMKMC Pastor-in-Charge the Rev Anthony Lee has these (AMKTAC), the decision was swift and unanimous. After words of encouragement for those who feel helpless getting registered upon referral from Homeless Hearts during this pandemic: focus on what you can do, rather of Singapore (HHOS), team members across all three than what you cannot. “We have to remember being shut churches pitched in to run the shelter, 24 hours a day. in or shut out may result in an entirely new season. After |12 METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020

Noah emerged from the floodwaters, he began life on Blood donation behalf of a new humanity. After Moses was up on the drive at TPMC mountain for 40 days, he came down and his face shone as a result of God’s glory. Finally, only after Jesus spent 40 For the Faith MC family, S3P@Faith was a practical days in the wilderness did He begin His ministry. Let us way for them to take a step towards building a more spend as much time as possible in God’s presence through inclusive community. Faith MC sees every encounter with prayer, worship and reading of His Word. More than just these members of society as opportunities to bring our simply doing our part to stop the spread of the virus and kingdom family to those around us both in thought and stay home, this period of being shut-in can be a real action, as whatever we do for the least of us, we do for season of growth in the Lord.” Him (Matt 25:40). Quoting Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung’s MCS135 sermon, Meanwhile, Toa Payoh MC (TPMC) has been operating as the Rev Lee reminds us to ask ourselves: to whom can I an S3P since September 2019, and will continue to do be a good neighbour today? so after the circuit breaker has ended. With COVID-19, TPMC saw an increase in referrals for rough sleepers to Another joint initiative was between Faith MC and their shelter. Knowing that rough sleepers are especially Queenstown Chinese MC (QCMC). S3P@Faith opened at vulnerable during these challenging times, the TPMC their shared premises from 23 April to 1 June 2020. team saw this as an open door for them to serve and to share God’s love. At full capacity, S3P@Faith sheltered eight female stayers, who were Malaysians and Singaporeans ranging from Apart from keeping the space clean and comfortable, middle-aged adults to the elderly. Some had been living implementing safe distancing measures and providing in public spaces for years, some were displaced from their food and drinks, TPMC also looks out for their guests’ housing by the COVID-19 situation, while others were mental well-being by slowly building a relationship of Malaysians unable to return home due to travel restrictions. trust. Every occupant is assigned a social worker who journeys with them and helps them move forward, be it A team of staff and volunteers from both churches in terms of housing or other pressing issues. In one case, were responsible for practical and pastoral care. Part a businessman, who had started sleeping on the streets of the work was ensuring that requirements such as after his business folded, reconciled his rocky relationship cleaning standards, temperature-taking, safe distancing with his father, and both are living under the same roof and contact tracing protocols were met, which received once more. approval from MSF authorities before the shelter was opened. During the stayers’ time in the shelter, the team TPMC was also on the lookout to meet the community’s also provided them with emotional support. One stayer needs in any capacity that was needed. With stocks in even received Christ because of the love she experienced our blood banks running low during the circuit breaker through the community of volunteers. period, TPMC conducted an Easter Sunday blood drive in partnership with Red Cross Singapore. More than 120 “When I came [to Faith], it was an eye-opener for me… In people turned up, and 98 packs of blood were collected all my life, in Singapore, I had never been to a church. I was from the one-day event. received with open arms, everybody was very friendly, and I was very, very touched,” said another stayer. The Rev Ming Feong Ching of TPMC reminds us: “If you are feeling helpless and anxious about the situation you are Celebrating the birthday of one of the safe sleepers at in, I want to encourage you to remember the goodness of Faith MC God. Remember the faithfulness of our Lord. Remember how God has seen us through every storm we have faced in the past. He has delivered us in the past, and He will see us through the storm of COVID-19.” |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 13

A refuge (left) The safe sleeping area at Faith MC in times of trouble (right) A collaboration between AMKMC, AMKCMC and AMKTMC, part of their church was converted to an area for safe sleepers For Aldersgate MC, becoming an S3P was an extension of It was extremely heartening for them to see the whole the efforts of various members who had been reaching out Aldersgate community taking ownership of this initiative, in their own ways to rough sleepers. They then decided as seen by the forthcoming responses to calls for volunteers, to respond as a church to meet this need, in a prayerfully befrienders and donations. Aldersgate MC is grateful for considered decision. the opportunity to respond to God’s call in a tangible way. “As Methodists, we must love our neighbours by being This ministry was new to them, as they had had no missional and by practising social holiness. Our mission is prior experience in running a shelter. However, with an to advance His kingdom on a daily basis, being and making eagerness to learn, and the guidance of many experienced disciples who worship and follow Jesus,” says Pastor-in- partners, the Aldersgate team cleared these initial hurdles Charge the Rev Dr Lynette Sathiasingam. to get the shelter up and running. They also expressed their thanks to FMS(P) for agreeing to open the shelter Even as we emerge from the circuit breaker period, we on school grounds. Additionally, the Encounter Fund was hope to continue honouring our Methodists who have initiated in May 2020 with donations from church members been reaching out to neighbours in need, and to inspire and worshippers, in support of Methodist Welfare Services, others to do the same! HHOS and the Covid Migrant Support Coalition. 和散那治丧服务 Hosanna Bereavement Services Your one-stop bereavement and funeral-related services 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 Bereavement Services Pte Ltd (A Subsidiary of the Methodist Co-operative Society Ltd) Block 4 Toa Payoh Lorong 8 Industrial Park #01-1333 Singapore 319056 Tel: 6259-4560 Fax: 6259-4095 Email: [email protected] Web: www.hosannabereavement.com.sg 24-Hour Helpline: Contact Ricky Guok @ 6352-7797

Home ¢ Distributing hand sanitiser to some By the MCS Communications Team rough sleepers / Photos courtesy of Daryl Lim Faith and deeds Daryl serving as deputy camp commander (From left to right) Daryl and his friends Ben, Joshua, Alden and Steven (from CWS) for BRMC’s youth camp in 2018 S ince August last year, Daryl Lim and his friends least of these”—the theme verse reminded him that Alden, Joshua and Ben from Barker Road Methodist whatever he did for the least of the kingdom, he did Church (BRMC), have been regular volunteers for Christ (Matt 25:40). In the lead-up to the camp, his in Catholic Welfare Services’ (CWS) Night Missions Sunday school teacher invited him to a Night Missions programme. They walk the ground to visit and interact programme with CWS for a hands-on experience on how with rough sleepers, and bring them buns and drinks. to live out that verse in Scripture, which started him on his volunteer journey. Each befriending visit brings them from the Bencoolen area through to Bugis and Jalan Besar, and usually lasts Through his experiences, he now has a deeper insight from around 10 p.m. to 1 a.m. into the lives of rough sleepers and the adversities they face. Even though Singapore is a wealthy country, there When COVID-19 escalated, Daryl was inspired to start an are many—hundreds—among us, now invisible, who online platform to collect donations of masks and hand have fallen through the cracks, through circumstances sanitiser to distribute to these rough sleepers. They beyond their control. taught the rough sleepers the importance of cleaning their hands and how to use hand sanitiser properly. In Daryl has also had many volunteering opportunities one night, he and his friends gave out 62 bottles of throughout his educational journey in ACS(I) and ACJC, hand sanitiser, along with masks and care packages. thanks to the ACS family’s emphasis on giving back to society. He says: “There is an African term—‘ubuntu’— Collecting these resources was not without its challenges. which, when translated, means ‘I am because we are’. Three days before the distribution event was planned, We are who we are today partly because of others. It Daryl and his friends had only collected 10 bottles of might be easy to prioritise ourselves over others, but hand sanitiser as the panic-buying had depleted the I hope that everyone can broaden their world view by stocks in shops. But then donations began coming in being more understanding and caring in their actions. from Daryl’s friends and family. He even received a call from the Muslim Youth Forum who had caught wind of “If you want to make a difference but don’t know where their initiative and expressed interest in donating to it. to start, start small by showing care and respect to those around you. Just as how Jesus demonstrated his Daryl was inspired to work with rough sleepers when love for us on the cross, likewise we can let all that we his church, BRMC, held a youth camp themed “Unto the do be done in love.” |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 15

Home ¢ Jason Woo is the Communications Executive at MCS Comms. / Photos courtesy of Col (Ret) Quek Koh Eng and Kelvin Tan The Greatest Showmen Col (Ret) Quek Koh Eng The largest Singapore flag (formed by 8,667 volunteers holding umbrellas), according to the Singapore Book of Records, being formed on National Day 2007 at the Padang in an NDP show directed by Kelvin Tan S ingapore’s National Day is always an occasion to which Singaporeans look forward. We are not only treated to a visual spectacle that pays tribute to our country’s progress and achievements through the years, but are also reminded of our long journey together as a people of varied races, religions and experiences in building a nation we can be proud of. This is very much so the case for two members of the local Methodist community, who could not have been more different in their occupational backgrounds and life experiences. Quek Koh Eng, who is Area Director and Operations Director in the Methodist Missions Society and worships at Charis Methodist Church (MC), is a retired Colonel of the Singapore Armed Forces. He had the privilege of being involved in the organising of several National Day Parades (NDPs) from the ’70s to the ’80s, when Singapore was just a young nation finding its footing in the world. Kelvin Tan, who works in the creative industry and attends Trinity MC, contributed his time and skills to NDPs over a span of 22 years from the late ’70s to the early 2000s, half of which in the capacity of creative director. Witnessing the development of a nation As a young officer in the Singapore Armed Forces in the ’70s, Col Quek Koh Eng found himself quickly placed in a position that allowed him to steer the direction of several NDPs for much of the next decade, an important period in Singapore’s early history as the parades were a way to get Singaporeans united behind a collective vision of nation-building. He started as the Organising Secretary for the 1976 NDP at the National Stadium. “As the Organising Secretary, my roles were to organise the meetings for the Chairman and assist him to coordinate and follow-up on all actions related to the agencies and institutions involved in the parade.” |16 METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020

Being in such a position allowed Col Quek to have a changing the format to include display items. The good picture of just what was involved in making a parade was then divided into two major portions, NDP a memorable experience for the citizen. It also the Parade and Ceremonial aspect, which comprises honed his operational skills, which would put him mainly the marching displays and military hardware, in good stead for parades in the future. and the second being the Display segment, which features different performing groups showcasing After getting his feet wet in 1976, Col Quek went on to mass displays along a particular theme,” recounted chair the NDP Organising Committee in 1979, during Kelvin. “This template is still used today.” which he oversaw one of the many decentralised parades that were a feature of the year. As expected of an event of its magnitude, planning for each NDP took place well in advance before the “My role as Organising Chairman was to crystalise next parade, often from October the previous year. the concepts and themes of the Parade and seek approval from the higher authorities,” described Having seen through his fair share of NDPs through Col Quek. “There was a lot of coordination between the years, Kelvin noted that the NDPs in recent the various sub-committees, whose jobs were to years have opted for more theatrics than the ones manage the flypast, invitations, crowd control, before, making the viewing experience a much security, fireworks, rehearsals and the general more dramatic affair. table of events.” He counted the 1998 NDP as one of his more Col Quek cited that one of the toughest challenges memorable outings. “In 1998, the economy was in organising an event the scale of a NDP is getting badly affected, and we pulled together a moving the varied timings within the Parade precisely parade that engaged the active participation right, especially the firing of the 21-gun salute of all in the audience. It was a party from the to the President and the flypast display by the start, and the melancholic mood of an economic military aircraft. He did such a good job that he was depression was lifted. The parade then closed with re-appointed as the Chairperson of the Organising a spectacular fireworks display, a feature that is Committee for two more NDPs in 1980 and 1983. still being used today.” “One of my best memories of my involvement with “It was [always] a deliberate attempt on my the NDPs was the one in 1980 when we introduced part to make the content every year as varied as the feu de joie, performed by the Guard of Honour, possible, to ensure that no one would be able to which is now a standard fixture at the NDP. As make a comparison to what was before. Each year blank rounds were used, we had to affix every rifle would showcase certain technological advances with a blank attachment and carry out rigorous and therefore create memories that would be hard inspections to ensure that no mishap occurred,” to forget.” recalled Col Quek. Kelvin directing the Injecting vibrancy from one century NDP show at the to the next Padang in 2007 Kelvin Tan found himself in a unique position to organise, conceptualise and oversee the creative presentations of NDPs that straddled the 20th and 21st centuries. For a little more than two decades, Kelvin helmed various appointments, the biggest of which was as the NDP’s Creative Director. He felt that the NDP in 1984 was the turning point with regards to the parade’s creative direction. “From 1984 and onwards, we were told to make the parade more attractive and less militaristic by |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 17

Home ¢ Goh Eck Kheng is the Managing Editor of Loaves+Fishes, the publication of Covenant Community MC. / Photos courtesy of Juleen Shaw Sharing salt and light Juleen Shaw is the managing editor of Salt&Light, a website that unites Christians in spirit and purpose to live out their faith, to serve and lead, to influence and impact. She is a member of Covenant Community MC, where she serves as one of its service managers and sits on the Alpha@CCMC committee. How did you get involved in Salt&Light? Where did you start? Two-and-a-half years ago, I was approached to launch In the beginning, we were at our Genesis 1:1—formless Salt&Light as its managing editor. and void. There was no team (except me), no content, no website, not even a name. I thought I could take my time While I saw the necessity of the Gospel and testimonies to learn about the technology and the church ecosystem, going out to a digital generation (which includes all of contact newsmakers, build my team, then launch the us who use platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp), I did website when I was ready. not seriously consider the offer. Digital news was not my But two weeks after I’d joined, my CEO, Edric Sng, said: natural habitat—I had always been a print journalist at “We’re launching in eight weeks at a pastors summit SPH and MediaCorp. attended by 800 senior pastors.” I couldn’t believe it. I felt the weight of responsibility to readers, churches, our But God seemed to think otherwise. About 12 hours before Board of Directors. I remember sitting on my bed (I had I was to give my answer, I told God: “God, You know I no office yet) crying out to the Lord: “I can’t do it! I’m the would not take on this role unless You want me to. If You wrong person! I must have heard You wrongly!” really want me here, will you show me clearly?” The Salt&Light team in a Zoom editorial meeting during I thought no more about it. But that very night, I opened Circuit Breaker. Clockwise from top left: Tan Huey Ying, Gracia up my DISCIPLE study manual to do my homework for Lee, Gemma Koh, Juleen and Christine Leow. Now working the upcoming class. Guess what the theme for the week from home, the team, including Juleen, shares daily personal was? Work. reflections and weekly team devotions The theme verse was 2 Thessalonians 3. I realised I had been telling myself that I was already serving in church a little, working on freelance projects a little, attending Bible classes a little. It was “enough”. I had only just left my teaching position at NTU and thought I’d take a break. But God chastised me through this Bible passage: “Don’t be idle! I did not make you to just take on a little. You can do more!” God was right. I was only giving Him a little; not my all, not my best. There’s no concept of retirement in God’s economy! (Just ask Moses and Noah.) The next day, I called the CEO and said: “Okay. I’m in.” |18 METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020

But because His call had been so clear, I stuck it out. It To that end, we partner mainstream churches and para was only when we launched on 8 Jan 2018 that I saw organisations to deliver the message that Christianity His plan: at the end of day one, we had 30,000 readers, is more than a religion. It is a deep, personal and by the end of day three, there were 58,000 readers. The transformative relationship with God and with each other. numbers and speed of growth were like nothing I’d ever seen. I finally stopped fighting God and said: “Okay, God, How do you run and how are you I guess You knew what You were doing.” different from a secular newsroom? We launched with 20 stories, without knowing where Salt&Light runs like a newsroom, publishing new stories more stories would come from. By God’s grace, from the daily, coming together for editorial meetings and post- day we launched till now, we have not stopped publishing mortems. Like any newsroom, we are pretty much on alert new stories every single day. It was like seeing the miracle 24-7—when news breaks it’s all systems go and our phones of five loaves and two fishes multiplying. start buzzing whether it’s 12 p.m. or 12 a.m. Can you tell me about your organisation I remember early on in Salt&Light, the one night I decided and team? to leave my laptop in the office was the night Billy Graham died. We had to scramble to call up pastors for their We currently have five writers—ex-journalists, editors and response and publish the news within an hour. From that producers from the Straits Times, Today and CNA. Like our time on, my laptop has not left my side! readers, we hail from different churches. Our criteria is that every story needs to encourage, equip Our CEO, Edric Sng, used to run the digital desk at Today and edify the body of believers and glorify God. and CNA. He is also the deputy senior pastor at Bethesda Bedok-Tampines Church. We take counsel from a Board We also set out to be hyper-local, as there are many of Directors which includes Lucas Chow, who worships at excellent faith websites existing, but the foreign ones Wesley MC, and Pastor Benny Ho, senior pastor of Faith don’t address, say, how an NS boy deals with the negative Community Church in Perth. influences of camp life, or what to do if your boss insists that you practise fengshui, or how a PSLE parent copes with Salt&Light, together with our sister website Thir.st, the pressure. comes under the umbrella of Thirst Collective. Thirst Collective is not affiliated to any one church, but is the Interestingly, even though we have a local voice, we vision of a group of pastors and marketplace leaders who receive emails from all over the world—UK, US, Australia, saw the need to equip and encourage believers to live China, Mexico, India, Malaysia, Philippines, etc. I guess out their faith in a VUCA (volatile, uncertain, complex disciples the world over have the same struggles. and ambiguous) world. Some of our editorial core values are what you would find We see ourselves as a gathering place for Christians to in any newsroom, for instance, “we strive for excellence in unite in spirit and purpose to serve and lead, to influence every image, video and article”. and impact, to find meaning in the mundane, to wrestle with doubt and despair in faith, and find amazing grace for But we also have editorial core values that are faith-based: the journey ahead. “Everything published must agree with Scripture”. |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 19

Sharing salt and light There are also “internal” core values aimed at was so damaged that he committed murder at 16. honouring God: “A God of perfect order deserves the God met him in an isolation cell in prison. utmost professionalism” and “we work on our personal walk, so that our output will follow”. When we hear all these stories, and how God in His mercy and grace redeems, saves and heals, replacing As a team, we commit our work to God at the start condemnation with abundant life, we feel privileged of every work day, praying for our interviewees, for every day to tell of His wondrous works (Ps 145:4–5). sensitivity to God’s prompting, and that His Word will not return void. And the God who performs miracles, gives visions and speaks clearly to those who seek His counsel? He I can’t tell you how important this is—God has been our is not confined to the pages of the Old Testament. He guide at every step. He has “downloaded” stories to us still does today. which went on to clock over 200,000 readers within 12 hours, jamming the server. And He has also stopped us Which story was most meaningful to you from running potential stories that appeared credible personally? but were later proven otherwise. There have been many, but one is a young woman who gave up her comfortable life in Singapore to be a Which stories have been significant? missionary in war-torn Afghanistan because God put in The favourite part of our job is hearing the God stories her heart a burden for the people who have not heard of people from all walks of life and realising that God the Gospel. She is God’s “light” in a very dark place. is everywhere and seeks everyone. Another is a marketplace leader who is not just a CEO One day we are interviewing an illiterate ex-offender, to the staff in his secular workplace, but also a “pastor” the next day a CEO from Cambridge. One day a mother to them, openly seeking God’s will for the company who lost her only son in a tragic accident, the next day and for his staff. He is “salt of the earth”, preserving a missionary who willingly answered God’s call to a God’s statutes in a rough world. war-torn country. One day a migrant worker, the next day a glamorous celebrity. Both people moved me with their commitment to God’s call, no matter what it took, and their complete At our editorial meeting, a writer shared about her dependence on Him and acceptance of His will. God interview with an abandoned and abused child who never fails us when we put our trust in Him. The Salt&Light team and contributors celebrating CNY pre-COVID. From left to right: Tan Huey Ying, Karen Tan, Edric Sng, Gracia Lee, Geraldine Tan, Emilyn Tan, Juleen Shaw, Jane Lee |20 METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020

Welfare Services ¢ By the Methodist Welfare Services (MWS) Communications Team / Photo courtesy of MWS MWS volunteers befriend families in need through the MWS Family Development Programme. (This photo was taken before the circuit breaker.) Never too young to make a difference “Let no one despise you for your youth, Seeing Christ in volunteering Since she started, Joanne has completed the volunteer but set the believers an example in speech, training programme, created a video for FDP, and even hosted the Enrich and Engage session where volunteers share their in conduct, in love, in faith, in purity.” experiences to enhance their knowledge and skills. While she has certainly learnt much, there are still days when Joanne (1 Tim 4:12) struggles, especially when other commitments fight for her attention. “I find my conviction to help others anchored in Apassionate volunteer with MWS Family Development God’s Word. In Matthew 25:40, Jesus said, ‘Truly, I say to Programme (FDP) since July 2019, Joanne Chua you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, from Changi Methodist Church shares her journey in you did it to me.’ To know that whenever I help others, I am volunteerism. Like many others her age, the 22-year-old is actually serving God keeps me going.” busy balancing several commitments on top of school, work and church; but Joanne does not shy away from volunteering. Due to COVID-19 restrictions, most of her work has had to be conducted online over the last few months. Joanne looks Cultivating a heart for volunteerism forward to having face-to-face interactions and getting to Joanne went on a two-week Overseas Community Service know the beneficiaries better soon. Project (OCSP) trip to Thailand with her university and forged a close bond with the children during her time there. Realising As we approach International Youth Day on 17 August, may she was unlikely to return and continue the good work we celebrate our youths and pray that they will use the gifts with the same children, she became inspired to volunteer and talents God has blessed them with to enrich the lives of where she could make a more long-lasting impact. This led the vulnerable in our communities. Joanne to consider joining her father, an active volunteer with Methodist Welfare Services, to work with families in MWS FDP volunteers share need through the FDP. This is an asset-building intervention experiences on Zoom scheme targeted at low-income families in the bottom 10 per cent household income group in Singapore. FDP helps the If you are keen to volunteer with MWS, underprivileged break the cycle of poverty through financial please find out more at planning, debt clearance and savings matching. www.mws.sg Overcoming doubts and fears [email protected] “I was initially worried that I could not help meaningfully,” recalls Joanne. “Having come from a privileged and blessed family, I never had to pay for most things myself or worry about the bills. Furthermore, I have not gone through marriage or childbearing. What if the beneficiaries felt short-changed or compared me with other more capable and experienced volunteers?” But Joanne was reminded through Scripture that God equips His people for His good works, regardless of their age. The community also helped Joanne ease in and gain greater confidence. Many of the volunteers were fellow church members who had known her since she was young, and they have always been very encouraging. |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 21

Registration at our Columbarium Office (Level 5) Monday to Friday, 9.00am to 5.00pm (Closed on Public Holidays). Tel: 6479 8122 HP: 9670 9935 or Fax: 6479 6960 Email: [email protected]

Missions ¢ Home visitation to a 12-year-old paralysed girl Grace Chung is the MMS Church Engagement Manager and she also handles the Donor and Fundraising Management. She worships We humbly invite you to pray with us for the mission fields, at Grace Assembly of God./ Photos courtesy of MMS to partner us to expand God’s kingdom and to contribute financially, e.g. to MMS General Fund. Love We can achieve more together than alone. We are made through unity strong when we come together in the name of Christ. It in action is our hope that the work of missions will further inspire us all to press on to share the Gospel, to build committed T he COVID-19 pandemic has escalated at an alarming disciples for Christ and to share our love through our twin speed, infecting millions and impacting economies as strategy of church planting and community development. countries imposed tight restrictions to halt its spread. Please pray for Even as Singapore battles and grapples with the crisis, the three Annual Conferences of The Methodist Church • our national pastors and leaders as they ensure in Singapore, together with our Methodist churches and ministry continuity in their respective churches. donors, have come together in unity to respond to the needs of our Methodist Missions Society (MMS) mission • God’s protection in the mission fields where fields affected by the pandemic. COVID-19 cases are increasing and for their national health system to provide safe and The MMS Home Office has been working closely with adequate services. our field teams to prepare, respond and strengthen their ability to provide assistance to their beneficiaries. We have • MMS as we continue to provide for the needs of united in solidarity to show love in action, pray and provide our mission fields, with financial support from our financial aid via our Crisis Relief Fund of about $50,000 so churches to accomplish the Great Commission. that our leaders, pastors, national workers, local churches in all MMS mission fields and entities could respond and Get in touch with MMS today! provide immediate relief to the affected families. www.mms.org.sg We hear of heart-breaking difficulties from our fields’ church [email protected] members and their families of what they are going through 6478-4818 as well as their concerns about their livelihood after losing jobs because of the lockdown measures. Teachers in our Families in schools are choosing to continue teaching while taking a mission fields pay cut. Parents are unable to pay for school fees, children bringing home cannot afford medical care for their ageing parents, and their relief numerous church members face similar circumstances. packages Despite the storms of adversity, we witness the sheer resilience and faith as they persevere through this crisis. Pastors are praying fervently, national workers reaching out with food, essentials, and basic sanitisation supplies to the families and children. Leaders are stepping up to raise funds to pay salaries and more. These efforts have shown God’s love in action to those in need and those who have yet to receive Christ. They are also a testimony to the families of our school children and the surrounding communities that we communicate our love not only in words, but also through compassionate actions. The COVID-19 pandemic is a stark reminder that we cannot overcome crisis by ourselves and that we are all God’s people called to serve and support one another. Truly, “How good and pleasant it is when God’s people live together in unity!” (Ps 133:1, NIV) |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 23

You & Your Family ¢ Benny Bong has been a family and marital therapist for more than 30 years, and is a certified work-life consultant. He was the first recipient of the AWARE Hero Award, received in 2011, and is a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church. The family in a post-COVID world T he COVID-19 pandemic has impacted how we work, Families can achieve greater synergy if they have reasonably trade with others, study in schools, relate to our families good relationships with one another. So, it makes sense to and worship God. And because important areas of our maintain healthy relationships with family and friends. lives have been affected, we should all the more think of ways to mitigate its ill effects. I would like to mention two In the absence of being able to draw strength from each effects on families and suggest three coping strategies. other or when supportive relationships are few and far between, the second coping strategy is interfacing, where One outcome is the added strain on frayed family the family in need draws upon resources further afield. relationships. The need to limit community transmission These could be both formal and informal helping resources, means spending more time at home, often competing with for example, the social service agencies and church family members for the same resources like private space, communities, neighbours and the extended family. For this video-conferencing on online devices, as well as time for strategy to be effective, needy families must know of the work, each other and self. When these interactions rub each existence of these resources. Moreover, they must be ready other the wrong way, we see increased conflict and in bad to call upon the resources, rather than choosing to suffer in situations, incidences of domestic violence. silence because they feel ashamed or embarrassed. This pandemic has also highlighted how unequal our Finally, the third helpful strategy is compromise. When society has become. The income and resource gaps the dust from the pandemic settles, families may have may have gone unnoticed for some time but now that to recalibrate their hopes, dreams and plans. Some may the pandemic has brought on a major economic crisis, review decisions for an overseas education or home the plight of those in the lowest percentiles cannot be upgrading. Still others may cut back on discretionary daily ignored. For now, with massive government support purchases, like eating at home more often or shopping both indirectly and directly available to poorer families, in discount stores. Making compromises can happen only their economic neediness may not yet be fully felt. But when we are prepared to face the future squarely. as weeks turn to months and possibly to years, many families will be in for a prolonged hard time. As believers, we may apply the strategy of compromise with a difference. Rather than viewing the future as How can families adapt in such a chronic and unrelenting bleak, we can ask God for new lenses, or His vision or crisis? Three strategies may help families cope better. perspective on our circumstances. Writing to the people of Israel in exile, the prophet Jeremiah reminded them The first is that families that are better able to synergise, that their Lord knew His plans for them. Instead of cope better. To have synergy is to be able to draw together viewing their captivity as their downfall as a nation, they and support one another. It is tantamount to the pioneers were assured that God’s plan was for their welfare and to of the Wild West who circled their wagons to provide give them hope and a future (Jer 29:11–13). We may not 360-degree protection against enemy attack. They drew yet see the end of this pandemic but with our eyes on strength in numbers and pooled together their resources. God, we already know how it will end. |24 METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020

Hymns & Songs ¢ Judith Laoyan-Mosomos is the Director for Worship and Church Music at the Methodist School of Music, and a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church. All Praise to Our Redeeming Lord I n planning worship that should appeal to the youth, does it ALL PRAISE TO OUR REDEEMING LORD mean more contemporary songs should be included? When we sing hymns, are we excluding the youth? (UMH 554) Hymns are a staple in the Methodist tradition. The 6,500 hymns All praise to our redeeming Lord, of Charles Wesley and the hymn translations of John Wesley who joins us by his grace, contain the substance of Methodist theology. These hymns are used for instruction, devotion and worship. The process of and bids us, each to each restored, singing and imbibing these hymns will shape one’s Methodist together seek his face. identity to a large extent. He bids us build each other up; If these hymns are not learned by the younger generation, and, gathered into one, will the Methodist theology and identity change? How can we introduce hymns to the youth? to our high calling’s glorious hope we hand in hand go on. A fresh way to sing hymns might be brought about by studying the hymns through the lens of performance practice, i.e. looking The gift which he on one bestows, at the era during which the hymn was written and understanding we all delight to prove, how music was sung during that time. By understanding the style, we may be able to vary our hymn singing and thus make the grace through every vessel flows it more “alive”. in purest streams of love. Another way is to contemporise the hymn. The worship E’en now we think and speak the same, team may explore the chords and experiment what works. and cordially agree, Improvisation around the melody employing exciting chord progressions appropriate to message may enliven the hymn. concentered all, through Jesus’ name, in perfect harmony. To go a step further, you can re-tune the hymn. For example, “All Praise to Our Redeeming Lord” was set to a new tune by We all partake the joy of one; Joshua and Amelia Loke. Here’s their thought: the common peace we feel, a peace to sensual minds unknown, “New music, when set to old lyrics, has the potential to uncover the treasures of the past for the edification of today’s a joy unspeakable. congregation. When we were given the task to re-tune this Wesleyan hymn, we thought carefully about how the new tune And if our fellowship below should sound. As the lyrics spoke about unity in the body of in Jesus be so sweet, Christ, we concluded that the new tune had to be accessible to both young and old, and had to have musical elements from what height of rapture shall we know the past and present. The melody also had to ‘match’ and bring when round his throne we meet! out the meaning of the words, especially Wesley’s description of our glorious hope, perfect harmony in Jesus, and the heights Words: Charles Wesley (1707–88) of rapture that await us at the end of days. In light of this, we Music: ARMENIA, Sylvanus B. Pond, 1836; have come up with a rather stately, hymn-like tune that has some contemporary elements. We pray that the new music will harm. by Austin C. Lovelace, 1963 refresh this old hymn, and spur both the young and old in the Methodist Church to strive for godly unity. ‘Behold, how good Scan the QR code to listen to the hymn. and pleasant it is when brothers dwell in unity!’ (Ps 133:1)” The orchestral accompaniment was written by Joseph Lim. Joseph, Joshua and Amelia worship at Fairfield MC, where they also serve in the worship and music ministry. |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 25

TRAC Bible Matters ¢ The Rev Daniel C Tan started his pastoral ministry after graduating from Trinity Theological College in 2003. He is currently appointed to Fairfield Methodist Church as Pastor-in-Charge. Is there a generational curse that extends to third and fourth generations? As I was preparing this article, the COVID-19 pandemic How do we reconcile what seem to be conflicting and confusing broke out. I got to know of people who lost incomes or warnings? What is God really saying in these passages? jobs; others (or family members) were infected with the virus; some were depressed and fearful to the point of The word “curse” is generally defined as a prayer or invocation panic and irrationality. In the midst of this time of trial and for harm, evil, misfortune or injury to come upon someone testing, people asked if the reason we are going through as a retribution. Sometimes, it is known as an “imprecation”. such a terrible time is the sins or unbelief of the generations In the Bible, the word “curse” is often used in contrast to before us that have brought God’s punishment upon us. “blessing”. Usually, when a curse is pronounced against any People asked for prayers for this curse to be broken. person, it is the penalty for breaking a promise or oath. It is perhaps a poignant time to look at Scripture verses In the verses we are exploring, God defined the expectations like Deuteronomy 5:9, Exodus 20:4–6, or even Exodus for a relationship to Him. We know them as the Ten 34:7 to understand if these verses support the idea of a Commandments given at Sinai. God emphasises undivided generational curse. loyalty and states the fundamental principles for living in right relationship with Him, together with a warning of the Deuteronomy 5:9 says: “You shall not bow down to them consequences if that relationship is broken. or serve them; for I the Lord your God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to the God showers mercy on those who love Him and keep His third and fourth generation of those who hate me.” This commandments. God also warns that if the people do not follow is linked to Deuteronomy 27:15a: “Cursed be the man who the commandments and turn away, there will be the danger of makes a carved or cast metal image, an abomination to false forms of worship which will have profound consequences the Lord, a thing made by the hands of a craftsman, and for future generations—their children and grandchildren will sets it up in secret.” not be properly instructed regarding the covenant relationship with God and with one another. This is essential to their life At first glance, these verses do seem to support the idea and well-being. It is important to understand that God’s justice of a generational curse. Children will be punished for their is part and parcel of His mercy and grace. parents’ sin. Is this not a blatant miscarriage of justice? It surely looks really unfair for God to take out their parents’ We cannot take Deuteronomy 5:9 by itself. We must look also sin on the innocent. Would it not make more sense for the at verse 10 (which is crucial): “You shall not bow down to people committing the sin to bear the consequences of them or serve them; for I the Lord your God am a jealous their actions? If pushed a bit further, it seems like a judge God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers on the children to sentencing a murderer to death by hanging and extending the third and fourth generation of those who hate me, but the sentence to the murderer’s children and grandchildren. showing steadfast love to thousands of those who love me and keep my commandments.” That is what these passages seem to allude to. This kind of justice seems totally unfair and uncharacteristic of the Taking these two verses together, we see something very gracious God that we know. clearly—God does not desire to curse us. Rather, it is a warning that sin has its consequences and God will punish Perhaps the kind of justice described in Deuteronomy 7:9– sin. More than that, these verses show that God is more 10 seems more justifiable: “Know therefore that the Lord willing to bless than to curse. your God is God, the faithful God who keeps covenant and steadfast love with those who love him and keep his When God says He will punish, it is only to the third and commandments, to a thousand generations, and repays to fourth generations. But His mercy and grace will be shown to their face those who hate him, by destroying them. He will thousands (ESV) or to the thousandth generation (NRSV). The not be slack with one who hates him. He will repay him to contrast is obvious! It shows God’s emphasis on His divine his face.” love and forgiveness. |26 METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020

God’s desire is to deal graciously and lovingly with His But it does not mean that we can continue to sin. Just people. He limits His judgment to the third and fourth because God is gracious and kind does not mean He will not generation. He shows the abundance of His grace and mercy punish. We must remember the vivid warning that we will to the thousandth generation. God’s love and mercy are the bear the consequences of our sins. Ezekiel 18:19–20 makes dominant characteristics of the covenant relationship. it clear: “Yet you say, ‘Why should not the son suffer for the iniquity of the father?’ When the son has done what is just The purpose of these passages is meant to be sobering, to and right, and has been careful to observe all my statutes, bring home a very important point—that our worship and he shall surely live. The soul who sins shall die. The son actions have great impact on our nearest and dearest. Our shall not suffer for the iniquity of the father, nor the father actions have influence and repercussions on them for better suffer for the iniquity of the son. The righteousness of the or for worse. Our sins have great repercussions on our future righteous shall be upon himself, and the wickedness of the generations. As parents, we must seriously consider this— wicked shall be upon himself.” what sort of examples are we for our children? In fact, the whole of Ezekiel 18 is very clear about the “Children see, children do” is what these passages warn consequences of sin and verses 30–32 emphasises of. When children see adults abusing their spouses, they repentance: “Therefore I will judge you, O house of Israel, might learn to abuse their spouse in future. When children every one according to his ways, declares the Lord God. see adults gambling, they might pick up gambling. When Repent and turn from all your transgressions, lest iniquity children see adults smoking, the chance of their becoming be your ruin. Cast away from you all the transgressions smokers is greater. that you have committed, and make yourselves a new heart and a new spirit! Why will you die, O house of Israel? This is the so-called “generational curse” about which For I have no pleasure in the death of anyone, declares these Scripture passages are warning us. the Lord God; so turn, and live.” While negative actions will have great impact on our younger Summary generations, the opposite is also true. When children see adults praying, they will grow up to value prayer. When We must see the commandment for what it really was children see adults giving of their time and money to help meant to be—not a curse but a warning to guard our the less fortunate, they will learn to be generous to those conduct because of the implications of our actions for who have less. our children. God holds us responsible for the welfare of our children. There is no such thing as eternal security We might think that we can sidestep the consequences of our based on past good deeds to ensure our future well- actions, but in truth, we cannot. Sin has its consequences. being. Moreover, people need not despair over past evil Obedience has its rewards. The wages of sin is death. That is that prevents them from enjoying life. We have personal the curse—eternal death. Are we all therefore doomed? No! freedom to determine at any time our own conduct. The We are not without hope. It is not the end for us. We can see encouragement is for us to turn away from evil. from the Bible that God will not abandon His children. The warnings given to us are clear. We are not doomed. For example, even when He drove Adam and Eve out of the There is a way out if we repent of our sins and find life Garden of Eden, God took the time and tenderness to make in Him. Even though the sins of God’s people would have clothes and help dress them. The Bible is filled with examples bad consequences throughout generations, there is grace of the grace of God. God’s mercy accompanies people even and mercy given to everyone on the basis of their personal in their wickedness. And God’s grace culminates in the cross repentance. Repentance involves a fundamental change of of Jesus Christ. The apostle Paul in his letter to the Galatians direction—turning away from sin and committing oneself to tells us that: “Christ redeemed us from the curse of the law the will of God. by becoming a curse for us.” (Gal 3:13a) The views expressed in this article are personal and might not necessarily reflect the official position of The Methodist Church in Singapore. This version of the article has been edited for brevity. The full article can be found at http://www.trac-mcs.org.sg/index.php/resources/bible-matters?layout=edit&id=261 |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 27

Soundings ¢ 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 (http://ethosinstitute.sg) On being salt and light “Soundings” is a series of essays that , like the waves of a sonogram, explore issues in society, culture and the church in light of the Gospel and Christian understanding. I n Matthew 5, Jesus told his disciples that they are the involved in public education and public health, and they salt of the earth and the light of the world. Although have done much to reach out to society’s poorest and most these metaphors have been subjected to different vulnerable members. interpretations, most scholars agree that “salt” has to do with purification and preservation, while “light” points to The contribution of The Methodist Church of Singapore in illumination and guidance. this regard has been truly exemplary, the evidences of which are quite obvious in the history of our city-state. In describing his disciples (and, by extension, the Church) as “salt” and “light”, Jesus is claiming audaciously that they But being the salt of the earth and the light of the not only are to be witnesses of God’s truth and love in the world involves more than building schools, hospitals and world, He is insisting that their very presence is somehow hospices—important though they undoubtedly are in the integral to the well-being of society. service of the common good. It also has to do with the Church’s engagement with some of the most complex The churches in Singapore have contributed in countless issues and challenges that confront modern society, ways to the flourishing of society and to nation building where the only constant is change. since Christianity arrived on our shores. They have been

These issues include religious pluralism and tolerance, social The statements that NCCS published on its website are cohesion and identity politics, biotechnology and science, mainly purposed to guide its member churches on how the relationship between religion and politics, sexuality, Christians ought to respond to these hot-button issues. marriage and family—the list can easily be expanded. But NCCS has never shied away from participating in public In a religiously plural and democratic society, the Church’s consultations when it is invited to do so by the Government. participation in public discourse on these issues must never be understood as merely optional. It is an important aspect This is because it believes that the rich theological and of the Church’s witness in society, and one way in which spiritual traditions of the Church can truly contribute to she fulfils her calling to be salt and light. discussions on these contemporary issues and offer unique insights that are not found in secular accounts. For more than twenty years, the National Council of Churches of Singapore (NCCS) has been involved in precisely In addition, the Council also believes that the Church can this form of engagement—sometimes quite publicly, but at provide a responsible critique (for salt also possesses other times, working quietly behind the scenes. antiseptic properties), and call to question certain perspectives and trajectories that, in the long run, may be Contrary to the views of some people, the separation of detrimental to the common good. religion and politics as delineated by the Maintenance of Religious Harmony Acts (MRHA) does not forbid faith communities from participating in public square conversations on issues that affect us all. Although Singapore is a secular state, the Government is not anti-religion, but recognises and appreciates the input of the different faith communities on these issues. That the Government has actively sought the views of the leaders of the various faith communities on a wide range of issues is a clear testament to this fact. Through the years, NCCS has issued statements and published papers on a wide range of issues, including: human stem cell research, euthanasia, social egg freezing, Section 377A of the Penal Code, the legalising of online gambling, mitochondrial replacement therapy, the amendments to the MRHA, etc.1 In addition, together with Trinity Theological College and Bible Society of Singapore, NCCS established the Ethos Institute for Public Christianity—the first official Christian think-tank in Singapore.2 Through its online articles, publications, conferences and seminars, Ethos Institute hopes not only to create awareness among members of the Christian community of the many issues that have arisen in our world. It also hopes to help Christians to understand them from the Christian perspective, informed by Scripture and tradition. 1 The full list of statements and papers published by the Council can be found on its website (https://nccs.org.sg). 2 https://ethosinstitute.sg |METHODIST MESSAGE — AUGUST 2020 29

2021 Admissions Now Open ACS (International) Singapore is a distinctive Building Through Belief, this school of choice provides international secondary school open to all Singaporeans & other nationalities, offering an • Exceptional examination results, very strong value-added achievement and an all- all-round English-based education for students round holistic education aged 12 to 18 years leading to the International General Certificate of Secondary Education • 50:50 mix of local and international teachers who uphold the dual Methodist ethos (IGCSE) and the International Baccalaureate and ACS heritage Diploma Programme (IBDP). • Small class sizes with overall student-teacher ratio of 8.7 : 1 61 Jalan Hitam Manis, Singapore 278475 • 40 different CCAs – 16 Sporting, 12 Visual and Performing Arts, 12 Special Interest Groups • Over 25 overseas trips per year • Over 200 formal student leadership positions • Scholarships for 4 Singaporeans to undertake the IBDP Mr Rob Burrough Mrs Tan Siew Hoon Achievements include Principal Vice Principal • Students with perfect score of 45 points in IBDP • 20 “Top in the World” awards in IGCSE examinations over each of the past nine years • Students accepted to Oxford and Cambridge universities for the past eight years • Admissions to top universities in the UK, the US, Australia and Singapore • PSLE and Singapore GCE ‘O’ Level students achieve outstanding value-added examination results for the IBDP with improved pathways to good universities • Successes at national level in Athletics, Touch Rugby, Debating, Orchestra, Volleyball, Taekwondo, Ice Hockey, Fencing, Swimming, Artistic Swimming, Rhythmic Gymnastics and Wushu. Mr Gavin Kinch Dr Kristopher Achter What the parents say… Vice Principal Vice Principal “ACS (International) ignites students' passion to learn through building strong relationships For more information with deeply devoted and highly experienced teachers and excellent pedagogic and sporting infrastructure. The school has achieved a fine blend of academic rigour and holistic learning. Please contact Joseph Ng The emphasis on CCAs and community service as well as the ample opportunities for student or Serene Lim leadership makes ACS (International) a 'cut above' and the preferred choice for our children.” at +65 6472 1477 or [email protected] Larisa and Shivinder Singh “Sending our daughter to ACS (International) was the best decision we made. She used to be shy and introverted and has now become a confident, caring and motivated student leader.” Debra and Samuel Koh “We deeply appreciate the contribution ACS (International) has made towards making our son confident, capable and thoughtful. The school has provided an environment of personal care, support and encouragement to nurture him into a compassionate young man. We are also very proud of his academic, leadership, co-curricular and public speaking skill development.” Anju Uppal “We like the holistic learning environment of ACS (International). Apart from academics, the school gives the students plenty of learning opportunities outside the walls of the classroom through service trips in continents as far as Africa, school projects and events, CCAs, student leadership roles and more. Our children thoroughly enjoy the IB programme, the holistic environment of the school, and are very proud to be students of ACS (International). The school has helped our children to grow and mature in so many ways, whilst equipping them with the necessary skills needed for their university studies and future endeavours. We are very glad to have sent both of our children to ACS (International).” Steven and Pau Kim Kan

Book Review ¢ Sheri Goh is the Editor of Methodist Message. / Book visuals courtesy of Graceworks The Invisible People: The Bus Driver; Auntie Goes Home; Uncles at Work W ho are the people in your The Invisible People: neighbourhood? Ames Chen, the The Bus Driver; Auntie Goes Home; Uncles at Work author of the Invisible People series, By Ames Chen wants her children—and yours—to know. The Published by Graceworks (2020), 28 pages each series tells the stories of people in three jobs ORDER AT often marginalised in society: The Bus Driver, Auntie Goes Home and Uncles at Work. https://graceworks.com.sg/store/category/latest- publications/the-invisible-people/ Everyone has taken a bus; many families have foreign domestic helpers; and everyone lives, $10 each works or studies in buildings built by migrant construction workers. But we often pay little Enjoy 15 per cent off The Invisible People if you buy the heed to these invisible but essential workers, complete set of three books. Use promo code MMTIP at the and even less to their untold stories. Ames webstore’s checkout page (valid from 1–31 Aug 2020). wrote these three books to shine a spotlight on these men and women who are their own people, with histories, families and needs that mostly go unnoticed. But the little boy who takes the 7.05 a.m. bus realises when his favourite bus driver no longer drives the route, and he writes a letter to the bus company. The little girl in Auntie Goes Home comes to an understanding, over time, that her foreign domestic worker has physical needs, emotions and dreams for her future outside of her work with the family. And the father of the little boy in Uncles at Work takes him to visit the migrant workers who are building their new flat so that the child can understand the human cost behind his new home. The simple and relatable storytelling style is accompanied by beautiful illustrations by Jayl Chen. COVID-19, and the resultant circuit breaker, has shown just how vulnerable many of our essential workers are, especially if they are foreigners living in our midst. This picture book series will hopefully help its young readers to feel greater empathy for those whom they might not normally “see”.

Home ¢ Salomone D is a member of Ang Mo Kio Tamil Methodist Church, where he leads the Young Adult Fellowship. He is also actively involved in serving the youth ministry across ETAC. What does being a Methodist mean to you? T o me, being a Methodist is growing as a disciple of Christ with the guidance and care of a strong community of believers, while serving the Church and community at large. Although I didn’t grow up in a Methodist church, I quickly grew to appreciate the methodical way in which ministries were run and the church functioned—those in the Church were always clear in their intention to give their utmost for Christ, which inspired and challenged me to grow as a disciple of Christ and a leader. I witnessed the church putting faith and love into action through the various community outreach initiatives in our local church as well as those organised by the Methodist Welfare Services. The various Bible studies and sermons I have participated in have urged me to delve deeper into the Word and grow in my knowledge of God; my conviction to live in accordance to the Word increased as well. I am thankful for the plethora of opportunities that we have as Methodists to broaden our knowledge of our faith, especially through the Aldersgate SG annual keynote event and the workshops that were organised virtually during this pandemic. I am also thankful for the strong community of believers with whom I have been able to fellowship over the years. I can rely upon them for prayer, spiritual support and godly counsel. The fact that we have the three Annual Conferences also presents us Methodists with the opportunity to collaborate, learn from one another and show the love of Christ to the community around us. I praise God for The Methodist Church in Singapore, and I pray that He will continue to use us to serve and bless Singapore in the years to come.

Looking Ahead ¢ Scan to see events online! AUGUST BIBLE CONFERENCE 2020: LIVING IN THE KINGDOM AUGUST 8 and 15 Aug (Saturdays), 9.30 a.m. Register at https://odb.org/sg-bc2020 AUGUST [email protected] 6858-0900 Join Bishop Emeritus Dr Robert M. Solomon for two online Bible Conferences where you can learn about God’s kingdom from Jesus’ parables and stories, and find out how we can love God and love our neighbours as ourselves. Organised by Our Daily Bread Ministries. RAISING A PURE GENERATION IN A COMPLEX DIGITAL AGE 13, 20 and 27 Aug 2020 (Thursdays), 8 p.m. https://www.bible.org.sg/rapg2020/ [email protected] 6304-3765 (Florence Kang) Join us in this interactive class to learn more about the latest trends in media and technology, and how to teach our children to be discerning when using these platforms. Time will also be given for discussions according to children’s age groups. Topics of discussion include: • How to be a guardian of your child’s purity • Appropriate sexuality education at home • Building healthy habits and boundaries relating to media and technology. Organised by the Sower Institute for Biblical Discipleship LIVE WEBINAR: TO PLAN OR NOT TO PLAN? IS THAT THE QUESTION? 17 Aug 2020 (Monday), 10.00 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. Register at https://bit.ly/3eybeaa Even as God has plans for His Church, believers should still, in the midst of praying and acting, plan the next steps of their ministries and churches in such a time as this. Therefore, “To plan or not to plan?” is not the question. “How to plan” is an understandable question. “What to plan” is also a good question. What then is the better and deeper question when it comes to planning in the context of church? How then do we go about planning? Come discover this together at the online seminar. Organised by The Pastors Seminar & Fellowship. AUGUST CHRISTIAN ZIONISM: HERMENEUTICS, THEOLOGY, POLITICS 26 Aug 2020 (Wednesday), 7.30 p.m. to 9.30 p.m. Bible House, 7 Armenian Street, Singapore 179932, Level 4 https://ethosinstitute.sg/ChristianZionism [email protected] 6304-3765 (Florence Kang) Free admission. Please note that the event will be conducted as a Zoom Webinar if large gatherings are still prohibited by then. To be confirmed at least one week before the event. What is Christian Zionism? What is its origin and history? How should we evaluate Christian Zionism’s interpretation of the Bible, especially Biblical prophecies? What about Christian Zionism’s teaching concerning Israel and its place in the modern world? What role does it play in politics today? Organised by ETHOS Institute.

In Memoriam ¢ The Rev Dr E. J. Thoraisingam (1933–2020) First Elected President of ETAC (1976–84) T he Rev Dr E. J. Thoraisingam entered into glory on As one of the passionate and visionary leaders of TPAC, Sunday 12 July 2020. On that glorious day, in the the Rev E. J. continued to work towards an autonomous presence of his Maker, he will surely be told, “Well Methodist Church, and to keep the status and recognition done, good and faithful servant.” (Matt 25:21–23) of the Tamil Churches in Singapore. This desire for a Tamil Conference was realised on 8 and 9 Dec 1976, at the First He is survived by his wife, Jessie Athisayam, his son, Session of the General Conference of the MCS, when the Christopher Mohanraj, and their family. enabling Act was passed and ETAC was born. The Rev E. J. was elected ETAC’s first President, and subsequently served Born and educated in Singapore, the Rev E. J. was nurtured a second term. in his childhood by a widowed father. He participated actively in Sunday School at Tamil Methodist Church (TMC), The Rev Dr. E. J. Thoraisingam will be remembered as a the Methodist Youth Fellowship, the church choir and spiritual leader who inspired both clergy and lay with building youth activities, all of which he continued with throughout up ETAC at a time when there were insufficient leaders. In his studies at Trinity Theological College, from which he spite of meagre salaries and non-existent benefits, the graduated in 1963. clergy laboured. Throughout his pastoral ministry, which spanned over 37 years in ETAC and another decade prior One day, as a teenager, he stood facing TMC and told God, to that at TPAC, he gave pastoral care to five of the then- “If it is your Will, one day I shall preach in this sanctuary.” seven ETAC churches. No congregation was too small or And so he did, on many occasions, including at the ETAC insignificant to him—he nurtured God’s people, provided Annual Thanksgiving Services when he was President, and effective administration and made sound decisions. when he was Minister-in-Charge at TMC. After his retirement in 1996, he continued to serve on The Rev E. J. was admitted as Minister on Trial by his the Board of Ordained Ministry and attended each Annual Home Conference in 1963, and two years later, he was Conference Session, as a Ministerial Delegate, until 2018, received into membership of the Singapore Malaya Annual when ill health caused him to rest. Conference (SMAC). The itinerancy system enabled him to travel throughout Malaya, ministering to Tamil-speaking He was much respected for his humility and integrity, and congregations in towns and Tamil settlements in many above all, he was a man of prayer. It was his trust in God rubber estates. He passionately believed that the mission to and his desire to serve the Tamil-speaking in Singapore that reach and teach the Tamil-speaking throughout Malaya and led him to serve God with gladness and single-mindedness Singapore lay in the hands of the Tamil Churches, as well of heart. as in raising strong Tamil-speaking Christian lay leaders and clergy. He worked with other like-minded lay and young May the Rev E. J. Thoraisingam’s life and ministry inspire ministers, leading to the formation of the Tamil Provisional many to live and serve God with that same zeal. Annual Conference (TPAC) in Malaya in 1968. Ccontributed by Veronica Poore & Shanti Jeremiah