Methodist Message Jan 2021

ISSN 0129-6868 MCI (P) 027/11/2020 THE METHODIST CHURCH IN SINGAPORE Vol 123 No 1 JANUARY 2021 LOVE GOD BY LOVING OUR NEIGHBOUR

Church life 3 Contents Methodists in the world 22 1 Bishop’s New Year message Christian living 24 2 Coming Up—Trinity Theological College Open House MwCWWaiaecthnrehErhItatrilf’eisteyvcRhwceyealeokeEordooutsuah,ocLr:ndtoddaOuchttoneteosetaOint?nwmsvslrhKatidieCatebgyimIegaclNuotnpdMthhntum?GiteuctoIyssDolsbe@nlFeo!veuoPsOseumsshiSyrRstknoduroieesaaltrbVpluvtotsa-gieOho,grwelniroiLornedskt—aUrgds:iept,aNnoitohnwsowenTretyserEr.drpi:ooiEdtsrteattaR:sriohpnwgtbSyeoeeg.o!orsdrc?oscugoiokottDrmhnrarohateirircettvniysibilcmoepudl/ewui!tigsegiDsthnPiapot/tfrokhamoypgoeloooratmafopuekrpshemeehhaoodMsiacdftivsa/oMeee?srv/a?saean:anybtwntoesoyatthtttyhheheeirelnpryg 3 One MCS—Presidents’ Greetings 2021 4 One MCS—The Rev Dr Gordon Wong consecrated as Bishop 6 One MCS—12th Session of MCS GC updates 7 One MCS—Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference 10 One MCS—Chinese Annual Conference 14 One MCS—Trinity Annual Conference 19 MCS 135—1HSMS 21 One MCS—GC WSCS 22 Welfare Services 23 Missions 24 You & Your Family 26 Hymns & Songs 27 Soundings 29 Looking Ahead 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 NEW YEAR MESSAGE Bishop Dr Gordon Wong was elected Bishop of The Methodist Church in Singapore in 2020. He served as President of the Trinity Annual Conference from 2013-2020. Vision and ambition “What are the plans and vision project to unveil for the coming the respect of outsiders.” (1 Th God has given you for the Church?” year, or quadrennium, is regarded 4:11–12) as a church without life or vision. I was asked this eight years ago Christians are inspired by passionate This is a verse I reflect on at the when I had been appointed to speeches to do great things for God. start of almost every year. I share serve as President of TRAC. I was The Church is urged to think big and it with friends at every local church asked this again last month when I do big things for the glory of Christ. that I have been appointed to. And was elected to serve as Bishop of The I worry that we hear too little of I share it with myself again this Methodist Church in Singapore (MCS). doing small things rather than great year at the start of 2021. I have things for the glory of Christ. no “great” plans or vision for what My answer has remained unchanged, I want to accomplish in the place and seems to me to be just as We need to beware, lest our dynamic that God has appointed for me. I relevant and important during this call to do “great” things for God is certainly don’t want to be so busy COVID-19 pandemic. So here is misunderstood as implying that the with “great” plans and projects that essentially the same confession I God of the Bible is seen primarily I don’t have time to do the “little made in Methodist Message eight in “great” things rather than “little” things” properly, like being a loving years ago. I wrote then that, whilst things. husband to my wife, an encouraging grand visions and great plans father to my children, a pastor and sometimes inspire me, they more But that isn’t true. Or, to put it more friend to all who desire Christian often weary and worry me. accurately, what the world considers companionship along the journey to be great is often completely of life in a world that is often filled Please do not misunderstand— different from what God regards with pain and sorrow. plans are important, and we all can as “great”. What the world deems benefit from a passionate injection “little” may be, in God’s eyes, In short, my vision and ambition of enthusiastic motivation. “great”, and vice versa. for this year is to be a bit more like Christ in every area of my life: But sometimes I worry. I worry that The Apostle Paul understood at home; in the office; at church; we speak too much of great and this well. Concerning the kind of or on the golf course. Nothing exciting plans. I worry that we start ambition they should have for the spectacular, nothing “great”—just to believe that great and exciting sake of the gospel, he wrote to the little things that constitute projects reflect spiritual maturity the Church in Thessalonica: “Make quiet Christian faithfulness. I want and Christian faithfulness. it your ambition to lead a quiet to do these “little things” well, life, to mind your own business for God. I hope that as a Church, I worry that we begin to think and to work with your hands … we will make that our vision and that a church that has no exciting so that your daily life may win ambition as well. |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 1

Coming Up TRINITY THEOLOGICAL “Rare is a theological school that is profound and COLLEGE intellectually stimulating, yet accessible VIRTUAL and spiritually reinvigorating... offering both OPEN HOUSE self-study and communal learning opportunities. 2021 I found this all at TTC!” WHAT’S IT LIKE TO BE A STUDENT —Lisman Komaladi (MTS 2016), AT TRINITY THEOLOGICAL COLLEGE (TTC)? JOIN US AT OUR VIRTUAL General-Secretary, OPEN HOUSE 2021 TO FIND OUT! Fellowship of Evangelical Students “TTC not only provides a robust environment for TTC SEEKS TO DEVELOP IN STUDENTS theological dialogue and debates, but it also A MATURE UNDERSTANDING OF provides an inter-denominational platform THE HISTORIC AND BIBLICAL FAITH for me to interact with my fellow classmates THROUGH AN ACADEMICALLY from different church traditions. In addition, RIGOROUS, SPIRITUALLY ENRICHING the international nature of the community AND VOCATIONALLY FORMATIVE offers me a broader perspective of our faith CURRICULUM THAT REFLECTS A VARIETY OF CHURCH TRADITIONS from different cultures.” FROM AN ASIAN PERSPECTIVE. —Louis Leong (MDiv 2), ACTS Centre, English Congregation of My Saviour’s Church date 20 January 2021 (wednesday) |2 METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 time 10 a.m. to 11.30 a.m. find out more at https://ttc.edu.sg/english/ open-house/open-house-2021

One MCS ¢ Presidents’ greetings 2021 Rev Dr Gregory Goh Nai Lat Rev Philip Abraham Rev Stanley Chua President of the Chinese Annual Conference President of Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference President of Trinity Annual Conference Fix our eyes on what is unseen. “Have I not commanded you? The COVID-19 pandemic has Be strong and courageous. ravaged our world for almost In the past year, we have Do not be frightened, the entire of last year and we been fixing our eyes on the and do not be dismayed, are still not out of the woods. for the Lord your God As we enter the year 2021, “unseen”—COVID-19. is with you amid this doom and gloom, This coronavirus is highly wherever you go.” contagious and very smart. Joshua 1:9 how are we to respond? However, it can still be seen through the microscope. Life is full of challenges. As Charles Dickens wrote in his In all circumstances, Joshua famous opening paragraph of Paul said in 2 Corinthians 4:18: 1:9 reminds us to conquer our his novel, A Tale of Two Cities, “So we fix our eyes “It was the best of times, it was not on what is seen, hardships with faith the worst of times, it was the and confidence. To be strong age of wisdom, it was the age but on what is unseen, and courageous in our lives of foolishness, it was the epoch since what is seen requires us to trust in the Lord of belief, it was the epoch of is temporary, incredulity […].” As a people of but what is unseen relentlessly, as He is our God, we can either shrink in fear is eternal.” source of strength. and complain about our present situation or we can rise above What is seen is temporary; As we enter 2021, may God’s our present situation and make the pandemic will be over in promise, power and presence the best opportunity to exercise time to come. Let us continue to focus on what is unseen, be with us in everything our faith in God. that we embark on. and that which is eternal. As the Lord said to Joshua in Wishing all of you Joshua 1:9b (NIV) “…Be strong May God’s provision and “a Christ-filled New Year”. and courageous. Do not be afraid; strength be with us do not be discouraged, for the in the new year. Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” So, let us arise in faith and go into the year 2021 knowing that our Lord is with us and we can do all things through Christ who strengthens us. |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 3

One MCS ¢ Sheri Goh is the Editor of Methodist Message. / Photos courtesy of Daniel Lie The Rev Dr Gordon Wong consecrated as Bishop Bishop Dr Gordon (from left to right) Bishops Emeriti Dr Chong Chin Chung, Dr Robert Solomon, Wong preaching Dr Wee Boon Hup and Bishop Dr Gordon Wong delivering the Benediction in Chinese, his first sermon Tamil, English and Biblical Greek as Bishop A rainy evening on 4 Dec 2020 marked a new Anglican Bishop the Rt Rev Titus Chung; Col Rodney chapter in the history of The Methodist Church in Walters from The Salvation Army Singapore; the Rev Dr Singapore (MCS), when the Rev Dr Gordon Wong Chua Chung Kai from the Evangelical Free Church, and the was consecrated as Bishop for MCS’s 12th quadrennium. Rev Ezekiel Tan from the Evangelical Alliance of Singapore. Bishop Dr Wong was elected Bishop at the General Conference Session earlier this year in September.1 Bishop Dr Wong’s family, including his wife, Lai Foon, who is the Resident Conductor of the Methodist Festival The service was held at Wesley Methodist Church (MC), Choir, and his children, Deborah and Jeremy, also joined the oldest Methodist church in Singapore. Scaled down the service. His father, 98-year-old Cecil Wong, insisted on due to COVID-19 restrictions, it was attended by close to being there, despite his difficulty in walking. 100 congregants. Around 800 others watched the service online via livestreaming.2 Bishop Dr Wong embarked on his calling as a Methodist pastor in 1986. He has served as a pastor with Fairfield MC Invited guests included Bishop Dr Wong’s family and and Barker Road MC, as well as Pastor-in-Charge of Cairnhill friends, church leaders, Methodist pastors-in-charge, MC, Christ MC and Covenant Community MC. He taught for heads of Methodist agencies, Methodist school principals 17 years at Trinity Theological College, where he was the and invited media. Also in attendance were leaders from Bishop William F. Oldham Professor of Old Testament. He other denominations: the Most Rev Archbishop William was elected President of the Trinity Annual Conference Goh of The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore; (TRAC) and served from 2014 to until this year, when he NCCS President and Synod Moderator of the Presbyterian was elected from among the 46 eligible candidates to the Church, the Rt Rev Keith Lai; Lutheran Bishop Terry Kee; office of the Bishop of MCS for the quadrennium 2021–24. |4 METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021

He will serve as spiritual leader to 44,000 Methodists But in the rest of the passage, the Apostle Paul used the in 46 churches as well as to the 15 Methodist schools word “hope” six times. “We do groan,” Bishop Dr Wong and other Methodist agencies such as Methodist Welfare elaborated, “but we do not groan as those without hope. Services and the Methodist Missions Society. He takes We groan but with eager expectation—the hope that one over from Bishop Emeritus Dr Chong Chin Chung, who is day we will no longer need to groan.” And while we retiring after serving as Bishop from 2016–2020. anticipate that hope, we should, as John Wesley preached, “employ whatever God has entrusted you with, in doing The consecration service was presided over by Bishop good, all possible good, in every possible kind and degree Emeritus Dr Chong, who prayed over Bishop Dr Wong along […] to all people.”3 with the Presidents from the three Annual Conferences: the Rev Philip Abraham (Emmanuel Tamil Annual “In so doing, we obey the greatest commandment in Conference), the Rev Dr Gregory Goh Nai Lat (Chinese Scripture, which is to love God by loving our neighbour. Annual Conference) and the Rev Stanley Chua (TRAC). In this world of pain and pandemic, to love our neighbour means to groan with fellow human beings, to offer hope, Bishop Dr Wong’s first sermon in his new role was and work with God to bring whatever good we can out of entitled, “Groan, Groan, Groan”. “No,” he explained light- the bad that surrounds us all.” heartedly, “the sermon title does not describe my feeling on being consecrated as the next Bishop of MCS.” As MCS’s 12th session of the General Conference adjourned with the end of the service, the three Bishops The groaning he referred to comes from Romans 8:22–28: Emeriti—Dr Chong, Dr Robert Solomon, Dr Wee Boon Creation groans (v22); humans groan (v23); and the Holy Hup—as well as Bishop Dr Wong pronounced in Chinese, Spirit groans (v26). “The created world was good, very Tamil, English and Biblical Greek respectively, the good, but corruption and decay has afflicted it. Famines, Apostle Paul’s Benediction from the end of 2 Corinthians earthquakes, floods, drought and yes—pandemics,” 13: “May the grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love Bishop Dr Wong said. of God our Father, and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit be with us all.” It was a fitting reflection of the rich multicultural and multilingual culture that is MCS. Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung (with purple stole) prays over Bishop-Elect Dr Gordon Wong Guests at the socially-distanced consecration as he is consecrated. Behind Bishop-Elect Dr Wong are (from right to left) his wife Lai Foon, service included: (front row, from right to left) the his father Cecil, his son Jeremy and his daughter Deborah Most Rev Archbishop William Goh of The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore and Anglican 1“The Rev Dr Gordon Wong appointed Bishop-Elect,” Methodist Message, October 2020, 3. Bishop the Rt Rev Titus Chung; (second row, from 2https://youtu.be/OjZJlq0MQcc right to left) Lutheran Bishop Terry Kee and NCCS 3 In the concluding paragraph of John Wesley’s sermon, “The Right Use of Money” (Luke 16:9). President and Synod Moderator of the Presbyterian Church, the Rt Rev Keith Lai |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 5

One MCS ¢ The Council of Presidents of MCS for 2021–24: (from left The Methodist Church in Singapore wrapped up its 12th Session to right) the Rev Stanley of the General Conference in December 2020, concluding the Chua (TRAC), Bishop Dr remaining discussions and decisions on 3 Dec 2020. Gordon Wong, the Rev Dr Goh Nai Lat (CAC), the Rev The Rev Dr Gordon Wong was consecrated as the Bishop of The Methodist Philip Abraham (ETAC) Church in Singapore at the consecration service at Wesley Methodist Church on 4 Dec 2020, at the end of which he declared the 12th Session of the General Conference adjourned. Office bearers elected at the 12th Session of the General Conference, who will serve in the 12th Quadrennium from Dec 2020 to Dec 2024, include: Bishop – The Rev Dr Gordon Wong Chairperson, Finance and Administration Council – Mr Goh Geck Teck GC Treasurer – Mr Melvin Dineshraj GC Assistant Treasurer – Mr Nicholas Au-Yong GC Secretary – Mr Jeffrey Lim GC Assistant Secretaries – Ps Timothy Ang, the Rev Jeremy James, the Rev Daniel C Tan Nominee, Secretary of the Trustees – Mr Guan Yeow Kwang Nominees, Assistant Secretary of the Trustees – Mr Anton Moses, Mr Kim Seah Teck Kim Chairperson, Council of Governance – Mr Steven Seah Chairperson, Discipline Revision Commission – Mr Kim Seah Teck Kim Chairperson, Council on Archives and History – The Rev Dr Malcolm Tan Chairperson, Methodist Missions Society – Mr Alvin Tan Chairperson, Disciple Agency – The Rev David Gwee The next regular session of the General Conference will be held in 2024.

One MCS ¢ Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference Sheri Goh is the Editor of Methodist Message. / Photos courtesy of Daniel Lie The Rev Philip Abraham being installed as President of ETAC. Behind him are his family and Bishop Dr Chong The challenges ahead for ETAC T he Annual Conference sessions are usually a time of reminded delegates in a sermon based on Romans 15:13– lively worship and joyful reunion among members 16. In his swansong sermon as Bishop before retiring in across the local churches. For the Emmanuel Tamil Dec 2020, Bishop Dr Chong spoke at the opening services Annual Conference (ETAC) session, there would be much of all the Annual Conference sessions. “The Apostle Paul hugging and hand-shaking, as well as warm fellowship suffered greatly wherever he preached the gospel. What over home-cooked meals. The Emmanuel Praise choir, kept him going, such that he was willing to place his life decked out in vibrant uniforms, would grace the opening on the line to bring the Gospel to the Jews and Gentiles, and closing services with their exuberant singing. was his hope in Jesus Christ.” But, as we all know, the COVID-19 pandemic has radically God has not left us alone in our trials. He has given us the changed church life. While the number of ETAC delegates Holy Spirit, who comforts us and will be with us forever. for its 45th session was small enough to be held on-site at He has also given us the community of the Church, which Tamil Methodist Church (Short Street) on 6 and 7 Nov 2020, is what Bishop Dr Chong believes John Wesley had in the COVID-19 restrictions meant they had to be masked mind when he formed societies, classes and bands. and socially distanced. With live singing disallowed, pre- “Our different cultures, backgrounds and gifts enrich our recorded songs were played at the opening and closing churches,” said Bishop Dr Chong. “We can use all sorts service and Holy Communion at the opening service was of knowledge and capabilities to instruct and edify each taken individually. other, look out for and care for one another.” The two-day session was attended by representatives It is this diversity of the Christian community that led from the eight ETAC churches as well as Bishop Dr Chong The Methodist Church in Singapore (MCS) to structure Chin Chung, Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) President its churches along linguistic lines into the three Annual and Bishop-Elect Dr Gordon Wong, and Chinese Annual Conferences—ETAC, CAC and TRAC. Conference (CAC) President the Rev Dr Gregory Goh Nai Lat. What is next for ETAC? However, despite the difficult year that 2020 has been, A key issue that the Rev James Nagulan, President of ETAC “the God of hope is in our midst”, Bishop Dr Chong for the term ending in 2020, highlighted in his President’s |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 7

Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference Address was ETAC’s small membership and the resulting difficulty in finding pastors to lead its Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung preaches at the opening service eight churches. ETAC President the Rev ETAC membership dropped by 1.5 per cent in James Nagulan welcoming the last financial year, and by 8 per cent since delegates to the 45th the beginning of last quadrennium. This year’s session pandemic further stymied efforts to build up ETAC membership. The Rev Nagulan emphasised |8 METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 that Vision 2024—a roadmap to strengthen and build up the local churches, which was adopted by ETAC in 2019—must be followed-up in the new quadrennium. ETAC, he said, needs to find creative ways to build up congregation numbers. “We must be ready to make radical decisions if we are serious about the future of ETAC.” Owing to the low recruitment of ETAC pastors and most of its Elders being non-Singaporean, only one person was eligible to stand for election as the President for the next quadrennium (2021–24). ETAC had, at the Sep 2020 MCS General Conference session, petitioned for a relaxation of eligibility criteria for ETAC Presidential candidates but the petition did not receive enough votes to be passed. The Rev Philip Abraham, the only eligible Elder, was declared as ETAC President for the next quadrennium. He said to the conference delegates: “I am the Lord’s servant. Let us continue to serve together to build God’s kingdom.” Godly lives and ministries The ordination, installation, memorial and closing service was held on the evening of 7 Nov. Pastor Jeremy James was ordained as Deacon; and the Rev Philip Abraham was installed as President, R. Selvathurai as Vice President, as were other ETAC conference leaders. Bishop Emeritus Dr Robert Solomon preached from 1 Timothy 4:6–16. A good pastor, Bishop Emeritus Dr Solomon said, is one who heeds Paul’s advice: “Watch your life and doctrine closely” (v16). A pastor’s inner life— their life when no one is watching—and their public ministry must both be beyond reproach and bring glory and honour to God. They must train themselves to be godly: to be like Jesus; to discern what is central to their ministry; and live their lives with hope. In turn, the congregation must honour and encourage their pastors as much as they can.

One MCS ¢ Emmanual Tamil Annual Conference PASTORAL APPOINTMENTS FOR THE YEAR 2021 Ang Mo Kio Tamil Methodist Church Sembawang Tamil Methodist Church Pastor-in-Charge Pastor-in-Charge Rev R Prabhu Rev Saravana Kumar Jurong Tamil Methodist Church Tamil Methodist Church, Short Street Pastor-in-Charge Pastor-in-Charge Rev Philip Abraham Rev Vijay Joseph Pastor Associate Minister Rev Jeremy James Rev Anil Kumar Samuel Pasir Panjang Tamil Methodist Church Pastor-in-Charge Ps Jeremy James Pastor-in-Charge Rev Philip Abraham Singapore Telugu Methodist Church Part-time Approved Supply Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Stephen Shadrak Rev Anil Kumar Samuel Seletar Tamil Methodist Church Toa Payoh Tamil Methodist Church Pastor-in-Charge Pastor-in-Charge Rev James Nagulan Rev Saravana Kumar SPECIAL APPOINTMENTS FOR THE YEAR 2021 District Superintendent Methodist Homes Coordinator Youth Director Rev James Nagulan Rev Anil Kumar Rev Jeremy James Information is correct at time of print. A socially-distanced and muted opening holy communion service at Tamil MC (Short Street) due to COVID-19 restrictions. |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 9

One MCS ¢ Chinese Annual Conference Jason Woo is the Communications Executive at MCS Comms. / Photos courtesy of the Chinese Annual Conference A call to unite and shine for Christ The Rev Dr Goh T he 45th Chinese Annual Conference (CAC) session was a muted affair Nai Lat was compared to previous years. While much of the proceedings over four days re-elected for a was done via Zoom, the opening and closing services were conducted both second term as on-site and livestreamed to off-site participants. President during the 45th CAC In his sermon at the opening service, the outgoing Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung Session urged the Church to continue holding fast to and proclaiming the hope that only God can give in a world beleaguered by the prolonged battle against COVID-19. The hope of the Lord is in our midst Bishop Dr Chong’s sermon referenced Romans 15:13–16, where the Apostle Paul used his own tumultuous faith journey in facing trials, dangers and challenges to encourage the early Church to hold fast to the hope that is in Christ. It is this quality of spiritual indomitability that Bishop Dr Chong hoped Methodists across all three Annual Conferences would emulate, especially now that the COVID-19 pandemic has made the world seem so chaotic and uncertain. Bishop Dr Chong also urged CAC members to stay united, always mindful and ready to uphold and look out for one another. 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]

“Best of all, God is with us” Bishop Dr Chong, Echoing Bishop Dr Chong’s message, CAC President the Rev in one of his last Dr Goh Nai Lat, also gave praise to the Lord for guiding the Holy Communions CAC through an eventful quadrennium, during which the as Bishop of MCS latter half saw a number of significant changes. The Rev Dr Goh* bookended his current presidency by sharing how Looking ahead to the new quadrennium, the Rev Dr his heart was filled with joy and peace as he prepared Goh shared his vision for CAC: “I hope to see a CAC his President’s Report because he is “deeply aware of His that constantly abides in Christ…and manifests the presence with us; as John Wesley said on 2 March 1791: following four characteristics namely, passion and zeal for ‘Best of all, God is with us.’” evangelism, disciple-making, strong connectionism that is expressed not only in the itinerant system of pastors The Rev Dr Goh reflected on the impact of the pandemic but also in gifts and resources, strategic partnership of on the CAC churches. He noted that even though many ministries and mission and lastly, having innovative and activities and ministries were curtailed or aborted, it was engaging ministries in witnessing for God.” a chance to pause collectively and reflect on the Church’s real purpose. He exhorted the local churches to press on “Worship anywhere, but not anyhow” and continue to be bold in revisiting ministry paradigms, The closing service included the ordination of Elders organisational structures and existing traditions in order to and Deacons as well as announcement of retirements, meet the challenges of the next quadrennium and beyond. including that of Bishop Dr Chong. The Rev Dr Goh also spoke of God’s timing, drawing Bishop-Elect Dr Gordon Wong, in his sermon, stressed attention to the speedy adoption of the Central Pooling the significant role that incoming members of the clergy (CP) initiative launched in 2018. He had initially wanted to will play in the spiritual lives of their flock. He drew a kickstart the exercise in 2019 for implementation in 2020. parallel between Jesus’ words of the day when believers This timeline would have been severely disrupted by the “will worship the Father neither on this mountain nor pandemic and would have posed serious challenges for in Jerusalem” (John 4:21) with the current situation of the CAC. In His wisdom, God enabled the project to be physical church services and ministries being disrupted. passed two full years earlier. He urged the Church to consider how it can impress upon members that worshipping God can take place anywhere “Because the CP exercise took place in 2018, we also and any day, and not just in church on Sundays. managed to kick off the transformation task force, in a way, that helped prepare the minds of our people for needed True worship occurs when believers do so in harmony with changes and adaptations. CP has helped us to be more the Holy Spirit. “God is both truth and spirit, and worshippers united and be at a better position to ride out the storms. must worship in spirit and in truth,” he concluded. My heart is filled with awe and thanksgiving. God made everything beautiful in His time,” said the Rev Dr Goh. *The Rev Dr Gregory Goh Nai Lat was re-elected CAC President during the Session. In addition, the Rev Dr Goh reiterated the importance of disciple-making and that, even as the CAC has done Ordained Deacons Retired pastors well on the macro fronts, God also looks at the micro aspects of church work, namely the reaching of the lost Pr Bernard Chng Chun Yong Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung and needy. He highlighted the current pandemic as a Pr Patrick Lim Kok Chu Rev Goh Aik Hiang wake-up call to share the Gospel with those around us Pr Lin Ming Zhong Rev Yeung Hin Fai as well as to disciple the nations. Pr Joshua Ong Chee Xiang Pr Nathanael Goh Jun Chuen The Rev Dr Goh also emphasised the reality of spiritual Pr Florence Ngu Siew Ning warfare and the importance of living out our faith in a Pr Wang HaiBin way that is consistent with what we say we believe in. He cautioned against being in a position where the Church |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 11 has the form but not the power. “Our beliefs impact our ethics. We need to recover the sense of the total aspect of our faith, not just in belief but in practice. Our beliefs are revealed through the way we act and the moral choices we make. The two are intertwined and cannot be separated easily. A down- slide in our ethics and morality will very quickly lead to a change in theology, as we have seen in the West.”

One MCS ¢ Chinese Annual Conference PASTORAL APPOINTMENTS FOR THE YEAR 2020 卫理公会华人年议会2020委任 District 1 District 2 District 3 第一教区 第二教区 第二教区 District Superintendent 教区长 District Superintendent 教区长 District Superintendent 教区长 Rev Lek Yong Teck Rev Philip Lim Kian Leong Rev Dr Niam Kai Huey 陸永德牧师 林建隆牧师 严家慧牧师（博士） Geylang Chinese Methodist Church Telok Ayer CMC / TA2 Foochow Methodist Church 芽笼堂 直落亚逸堂／直落亚逸第二礼拜堂 福灵堂 Pastor-in-charge 主理 Pastor-in-charge 主理 Pastor-in-charge 主理 Rev Paul Thian 程文喜牧师 Rev Chua Ooi Suah 蔡伟山牧师 Rev Poh Heow Lee 傅後利牧师 Associate Pastor 协理 Associate Pastor 协理 Associate Pastor 协理 Rev Wilfred Leow 廖惠安牧师 Rev Joshua Tan Sin Kian 陈新坚牧师 Rev Lau Chong Yaw 刘昌耀牧师 Paya Lebar CMC/ Assistant Pastors 助理 Re-engagement of Retired Pastor Paya Lebar Methodist Mission Rev Jasper Ngoh Jun Jie 吴钧杰牧师 重聘退休牧师(部分时间） 巴耶黎峇堂／巴耶礼峇美以美宣教站 Rev Lin Ming Zhong 林明忠牧师 Rev Seet Keng Tat 薛庆达牧师 Rev Patrick Lim Kok Chu 林国柱牧师 Pastor-in-charge 主理 Preacher 传道 Rev Dr David Koh Ah Chye 许亚才牧师 Preacher 传道 Pr Ong Bee Keow 王美娇传道 Pr Timothy Ang Pei-Zheng 洪培正传道 Associate Pastors 协理 Attachment 隶属 Rev Patrick Chen Guek Fah 曾国华牧师 Bukit Panjang Methodist Church Rev Dr Wilfred Ho Wai Tat 何威达牧师（博士） Rev Jasper Sim Shenq Chyi 沈圣奇牧师 武吉班让堂 Rev Boey Kok Yeow 梅国耀牧师 Hinghwa Methodist Church Rev Ng Beng Keow 黄明娇牧师 Pastor-in-charge 主理 天道堂 Rev Lek Yong Teck 陸永德牧师 Changi MC/ Pastor-in-charge 主理 Punggol Preaching Point Associate Pastors 协理 Rev Chu Vee Ping 周伟平牧师 樟宜堂 / 榜鹅宣教站事工 Rev Christopher Louis Kong Chung Dai 江宗大牧师 Associate Pastors 协理 Pastor-in-charge 主理 Rev Erick Tan Eng Ghee 陈英意牧师 Rev Anne Lim Ai Lei 林爱莉牧师 Rev Simon Cheo Hsun Shen 石训深牧师 Rev Peter Soh Kee Lie 苏圻利牧师 Grace Methodist Church Charis Methodist Church 恩典堂 Kum Yan MC / Kum Yan MC 颂恩堂 (Woodlands) Pastor-in-charge 主理 感恩堂／感恩堂（兀兰） Pastor-in-charge 主理 Rev Dr Ian Jew Yun Shern 尤永深牧师（博士） Rev Lui Yuan Tze 雷远智牧师 Pastor-in-charge 主理 Associate Pastor 协理 Rev Philip Lim Kian Leong 林建隆牧师 Associate Pastors 协理 Rev Eric Soh Wai Foon 苏伟峰牧师 Rev Daniel Teoh Kean Oon 张建温牧师 Associate Pastor 协理 Rev Peace Choi Pyong Hwa 崔平和牧师 Holy Covenant Methodist Church Rev Herman Kan Man Shek 简文石牧师 恩约堂 Attachment 隶属 Hakka Methodist Church Rev Dr Andrew Peh Swee Kian 白瑞健牧师 Pastor-in-charge 主理 天恩堂 Rev Edmund Koh Lik Hng 许立欣牧师 Sengkang Methodist Church Pastor-in-charge 主理 盛港堂 Assistant Pastor 助理 Rev Irman Halim 林恩信牧师 Rev Florence Ngu Siew Ning 吴晓宁牧师 Pastor-in-charge 主理 Associate Pastor 协理 Rev Dr Niam Kai Huey 严家慧牧师（博士） Rev Nathanael Chew Eng Pin 周永斌牧师 Associate Pastors 协理 Yishun Methodist Mission Rev Peter Pan Seng Tai 宾升泰牧师 义顺北宣堂 Rev Tan-Yeo Lay Suan 陈杨丽旋牧师 Pastor-in-charge 主理 Attachment 隶属 Rev Cynthia Choo Bee Lay 周美丽牧师 Rev Lisa Yu Li Hsin 俞丽鑫牧师 Associate Pastor 协理 Assistant Pastor 助理 Rev Bernard Chng Chun Yong 庄俊勇牧师 Rev Nathanael Goh Jun Chuen 吴俊强牧师

2021 CAC PASTORS’ SPECIAL APPOINTMENTS BY BISHOP 2020年会督特别委任本年议会教牧 District 4 Missionaries with MMS 宣教士 第四教区 庄炳亮牧师（博士）Rev Dr Alex Chng Peng Lian District Superintendent 教区长 李文英牧师 Rev Cassandra Lee Rev Chua Ooi Suah Director of DISCIPLE Agency‘门徒机构’主任 蔡伟山牧师 Queenstown Chinese Methodist Church 严家慧牧师（博士）（义务）Rev Dr Niam Kai Huey (Honorary) 女皇镇堂 Associate Directors of DISCIPLE Agency ‘门徒机构’副主任 Pastor-in-charge 主理 Rev Ling Tieng Ngung 林天源牧师 江宗大牧师（义务）Rev Christopher Louis Kong Chung Dai (Honorary) Associate Pastor 协理 周美丽牧师（义务）Rev Cynthia Choo Bee Lay (Honorary) Rev Tack Ng Lai Chun 吴丽真牧师 Re-engagement of Retired Pastor Associate Director of Christian Ministry in Schools 学校圣工副主任 重聘退休牧师(部分时间） Rev Goh Aik Hiang 吴奕贤牧师 许立欣牧师 Rev Edmund Koh Assistant Pastors 助理 Rev Jacqueline Ho Sow Fong 何秀芳牧师 Methodist School Chaplains 卫理学校校牧 Rev Joshua Ong 王志翔牧师 Rev Lek Yong Teck 陆永德牧师 Rev Patrick Chen Guek Fah 曾国华牧师 Ang Mo Kio Chinese Methodist Church Rev Erick Tan Eng Ghee 陈英意牧师 Rev Lui Yuan Tze 雷远智牧师 宏茂桥堂 Rev Christopher Kong 江宗大牧师 Rev Jasper Sim 沈圣奇牧师 Pr Shawn Koh Shin Jan 许巽然传道 Rev Boey Kok Yeow 梅国耀牧师 Pastor-in-charge 主理 Rev Alex Chng 庄炳亮牧师 Rev Paul Thian 程文喜牧师 Rev Helen Hoe 何秋吟牧师 Rev Irman Halim 林恩信牧师 Rev Wilfred Leow 廖惠安牧师 Assistant Pastor 助理 Rev Simon Cheo 石训深牧师 Rev Jasper Ngoh Jun Jie 吴钧杰牧师 Rev Wang Hai Bin 王海斌牧师 Pr Timothy Ang 洪培正传道 Rev Joshua Ong 王志翔牧师 Preacher 传道 Rev Glenn Tan Tze Meng 陈书铭牧师 Pr Ong Bee Keow 王美娇传道 Pr Shawn Koh Shin Jan 许巽然传道 Rev Nathanael Goh 吴俊强传道 Rev Peace Choi Pyong Hwa 崔平和牧师 Rev Dr Ian Jew Yun Shern 尤永深牧师 Rev Koh Lik Hng Edmund 许立欣牧师 Toa Payoh Chinese Methodist Church Rev Bernard Chng 庄俊勇牧师 Rev Cynthia Choo Bee Lay 周美丽牧师 大巴窑堂 Rev David Koh Ah Chye 许亚才牧师 Rev Tan-Yeo Lay Suan 陈杨丽旋牧师 Pastor-in-charge 主理 2020 SPECIAL APPOINTMENTS Rev Chin Yan Chong 陈元昌牧师 BY PRESIDENT 2020年会长特别委任 Associate Pastors 协理 Rev Koh Chew Hai 许就凯牧师 Trinity Theological College, Principal & Lecturer 三一神学院院长及讲师 Rev Glenn Tan Tze Meng 陈书铭牧师 郑益民牧师（博士）Rev Dr Edwin Tay Ed Min Bishop Dr Chong leading the Lecturers at Trinity Theological College & Chaplains to CAC Students at ordination of the Trinity Theological College 三一神学院讲师及华人年议会三一神学生院牧 new deacons 何威达牧师（博士）Rev Dr Wilfred Ho Wai Tat 白瑞健牧师（博士）Rev Dr Andrew Peh Swee Kian Principal, Institute of Elders 四宗乐龄学院院长 邱仁发牧师（义务）Rev Khoo Cheng Hoot (Honorary) Sabbatical Leave（1 year）安息年及进修（一年） 吴毅华牧师 Rev Andy Goh Yik Wah Medical Leave 病假 蔡尚志牧师 Rev Louis Chai Shung Chee Soon Hong Kee Scholarship Trust Fund Representative 孙鸿岐奖学金信托基金代表 Retirement 2021: 张振忠会督 Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung 吴奕贤牧师 Rev Goh Aik Hiang 杨显辉牧师 Rev Yeung Hin Fai Information is correct at time of print. |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 13

One MCS ¢ Trinity Annual Conference Sheri Goh is the Editor of Methodist Message. / Photos courtesy of Daniel Lie Welcome to Church TRAC “How might we continue to promote the loving welcome of God in both the President and Church and the world?” Bishop-Elect Dr Gordon Wong asked the delegates of Bishop-Elect the 45th session of the Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) in his final address as Dr Gordon President before his consecration as Bishop on 4 Dec 2020. The session was held Wong at at Toa Payoh Methodist Church (TPMC) and online from 23 to 26 Nov. the opening service of the Bishop-Elect Dr Wong served as President of TRAC, comprising the 21 English- TRAC 45th speaking Methodist churches in Singapore, from 2013—2020. “Over the last session eight years,” he explained, “we [i.e. TRAC] have been using the simple logo of the five W’s to form a coloured star to remind us that we wish to be a Conference of churches that make disciples who promote God’s Word, Worship, Welcome, Witness and Wonder. This year, we have returned to the W for Welcome.” How is the Church, socially distanced because of COVID-19, to be an inclusive place of welcome for its congregation as well as the community around it? Firstly, Bishop-Elect Dr Wong said, we should be thankful to one another who are serving in the Church—those who serve in ministry, in the local churches, the Annual Conference, the General Conference or as staff. Secondly, we should have ministries through which we can show love to our neighbours, regardless of their “Serving families for a decade and more...” 24-HR HOTLINES PAUL & DANIEL +65 8321 3355 TOLL-FREE 1800-777-2422 www.AmazingGraceFunerals.com Amazing Grace has prepared these few measures to allow families to have a meaningful and dignified farewell for their loved ones: A. Online Ticketing Complimentary online ticketing system to allow visitors to reserve a visiting time slot and plan their visits, allowing families to keep within the regulated maximum number of persons at any one time with minimal coordination. B. Online Memorial allows friends to find updated information and offer their sympathies to bereaved families C. Live Streaming this option is available to enable friends and families to participate in the wake/vigil and funeral services online D. Donations families may appoint a PayNow account of a family member to receive donations. This will be posted on the online memorial. Christian Funeral Packages • International Repatriation • Pre-Planning Seminars

The Rev Stanley Chua Henry Tan (extreme right) being installed as being installed as Lay Leader TRAC President for the and Dr Cheah Fung Fong next quadrennium (fourth from right) as TRAC Vice President “race, language or religion”, such as through partnerships The power of welcome with the Methodist Welfare Services (MWS). The closing service of the TRAC 45th session was held at TPMC, which celebrated its golden jubilee in 2020. We should also show the welcoming love of God in a polarising Owing to COVID-19 limits on the size of the congregation, world. “Love means learning how to disagree without being the service was attended in person by those who were disagreeable,” said Bishop-Elect Dr Wong. Highlighting social being installed, ordained or dedicated, along with their media as a place that divides, he encouraged Methodists families. The rest of the TRAC delegates attended the to extend the welcome of God’s inclusive love for all. He service via livestreaming. ended his Address by thanking all with whom he had served alongside over the last eight years. During the service, the new TRAC President, Vice-President and Lay Leader were installed while Conference officers Leadership renewal were dedicated. Pastors Joey Chen, Alex Chew, Benjamin After his Address, the laity, through outgoing Lay Leader Lau and Allan Lee were ordained as Deacons, and the Rev Kim Seah, thanked Bishop-Elect Dr Wong for his service Eddie Ho, the Rev Poh Zhi-Hui and the Rev Byron Teo were as President. A photo and video montage, assembled by ordained as Elders. (Local preachers had been recognised TRAC office staff, was shown before a farewell gift was at the Holy Communion service on 23 Nov, also at TPMC, to presented to Bishop-Elect Dr Wong. mark the start of the TRAC 45th session.) One of the main orders of business during every quadrennial The Rev Edmund de Souza of Wesley MC delivered a sermon Annual Conference session is to elect a new President and that continued with the theme of welcome. He preached other leaders. The Rev Stanley Chua, Pastor-in-Charge of from Luke 19:1–10, which tells the well-known story Wesley MC, was elected after five ballots as TRAC President of Jesus’ meeting with Zacchaeus. Jesus is a welcoming from 2021–24. Dr Cheah Fung Fong from Fairfield MC was Saviour, he said, and reached out to connect with Zacchaeus, elected TRAC Vice-President, the first woman to fill this a dishonest tax collector who was a pariah among his own role. Henry Tan, formerly TRAC Vice-President, was elected people. Similarly, we should look out for those who society as Lay Leader. has overlooked or ignored, and “see [them], notice them and connect with them, and reach out a hand of welcome Over the next few days, elections were also held for TRAC’s to help them encounter Jesus in their own lives”. key appointments and board members. Outgoing Lay Leader Kim Seah urged TRAC delegates to encourage more, A loving welcome, the Rev de Souza pointed out, can especially the younger ones, to step up and serve at the change lives. “I believe God will use us to bring salvation level of the Annual Conference and beyond. to those who are far from Him, to bring restoration to those who are broken, and to bring healing to those in need,” Pastors and lay leaders also formed smaller groups to he said. “God is calling us to be the Church that welcomes fellowship, discuss the issues their respective churches those who are far from God […]. We should be that kind of were facing, and pray for one another’s personal and a welcoming community, so that the name of Jesus will be church needs. lifted up and many will be blessed.” |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 15

ONneE MCS ¢¢ TriTnriitnyitAynAnnunaul aCloCnofenrfeenrecence PASTORAL APPOINTMENTS FOR THE YEAR 2021 District 1 District 2 District 3 District Superintendent District Superintendent District Superintendent Rev Dr Jonathan Seet Rev Reuben Ng Rev Alvin Chan Barker Road Methodist Church Ang Mo Kio Methodist Church Agape Methodist Church Pastor-in-Charge Pastor-in-Charge Pastor-in-Charge Rev. Wendy Watson Rev Anthony Lee Rev Dr Chiu Ming Li Pastors Rev Dr Daniel Koh Pastors Cairnhill Methodist Church Rev Lawence Chua Rev Lee Yam Kai Rev Jeremy Ong Rev Nga Mee Hee Pastor-in-Charge Rev Benjamin Fong Rev Dr William Sam Assistant Pastor Assistant Pastor Pastor Gilbert Lok Pastor Emanuel Goh Pastor Rev Ling Kin Yew Bedok Methodist Church Living Hope Methodist Church Fairfield Methodist Church Pastors-in-Charge Pastor-in-Charge Rev David Gwee Rev Ivan Tan Pastor-in-Charge Rev Dr Aaron Tay (Effective 1 Apr 2021) Rev Wendy Tay Pastor Pastor Rev Timothy Yong Rev Joshua Loo Pastor Rev Dr Peter Wong Christ Methodist Church Methodist Church of the Incarnation Toa Payoh Methodist Church Pastor-in-Charge Pastor-in-Charge Rev Dr Edwin Wong Rev Edmund Koh Pastor-in-Charge Pastors Rev Benjamin Lee Rev Dianna Khoo Pastor Rev Barnabas Chong Rev Gabriel Liew Pastors Rev Daniel C Tan Rev Ming Feong Ching Rev David Ho Gim Pin Assistant Pastor Rev Poh Zhi-Hui Assistant Pastor Rev Allan Lee Pastor Tay Li Ping Wesley Methodist Church Paya Lebar Methodist Church Christalite Methodist Chapel Pastor-in-Charge Pastor-in-Charge Rev Raymond Fong Pastor-in-Charge Rev Dr Kow Shih Ming Rev Shaun Chong Pastors Assistant Pastor Pastors Rev Edmund de Souza Pastor Reginald Chan Bishop Emeritus Dr Wee Boon Hup Rev Michael Tan Rev Vincent Goh Rev Lilian Ang Kampong Kapor Methodist Rev Christopher Chin Rev Chia Chin Nam Church Rev Gladwin Lee Assistant Pastors Rev Adrian Ng Pastor-in-Charge Rev Jacob Lim Rev David Ho Seng Hian R ev Kenneth Huang Rev Joey Chen Pastors Assistant Pastors Rev Tay Kay Leong Pentecost Methodist Church Rev Benjamin Lau Assistant Pastor Pastor Clement Ong Rev Anthony Phua Pastor-in-Charge Rev Dr Jonathan Seet |16 METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 Pastor Rev Jason Phua Assistant Pastor Rev Collin See Trinity Methodist Church Pastor-in-Charge Rev Alvin Chan Pastors Rev Paul Nga Rev Sng Chong Hui Rev Byron Teo

District 4 SPECIAL APPOINTMENTS FOR THE YEAR 2021 District Superintendent Director, Truthmin Rev Dr Edwin Wong Rev Ian Lee Aldersgate Methodist Church Assistant Directors, Youth Ministry Rev Benjamin Fong Pastor-in-Charge Rev Timothy Yong (Schools) Rev Dr Lynette Sathiasingam Rev Allan Lee (Trackers) Assistant Pastor Director of Young Adults Ministry Pastor Jeremy Yap Rev Adrian Ng Covenant Community Methodist Church Director, Lay Equipping and Development Institute (LEAD) Rev Ming Feong Ching Pastor-in-Charge Rev Dr Malcolm Tan Assistant Director, Lay Equipping and Development Institute (LEAD) Rev Ling Kin Yew Pastors Rev Daniel Terence Yeo Director, Seniors’ Ministry Rev Ian Lee Rev Irene Thung Faith Methodist Church TRAC Crisis Relief Coordinator Rev Jason Phua Pastor-in-Charge Rev Reuben Ng TRAC Chaplains to TRAC TTC Students Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun Pastors Rev Bernard Chao Rev John Benedict Foo Rev Wendy Tay Rev Peter Koh Rev Eddie Ho Lecturer, Trinity Theological College Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun Assistant Pastor Rev Bernard Chao Rev Chan Mei Ming On Sabbatical Leave Holland Village Methodist Church Rev Lim Jen Huat Pastor-in-charge Study Leave Rev Joel Yong Rev Lai Kai Ming Rev Chan Siew Chye Pastors Rev Dr Lorna Khoo Coordinator Peranakan/Indonesian Ministry Rev Loretta Lim Rev Jimmy Wong Living Waters Methodist Church Coordinator Peranakan Ministry Pastor-in-Charge Rev Christopher Chin Rev Dr Aaron Tay Pastor Rev Khoo Kay Huat (Effective 1 Apr 2021) Assistant Pastor Rev Alex Chew METHODIST MISSIONS APPOINTMENTS MADE THROUGH SOCIETY 2021 THE BISHOP’S OFFICE Executive Director Rev Derrick Lau Director, Ministry in Schools Missionary Pastor (East Asia) Rev Tan Cheok Kian Missionary Pastor (Thailand) Rev Clarence Lee Rev Dr Aaron Tay Missionary Pastor (Vietnam) Rev Leslie Lim Area Director (Timor-Leste & Laos) Rev Teresa Wilborn Associate Director, Ministry in Schools Missionary Pastor (Timor-Leste) Rev See Swee Fang Rev Dr William Sam Rev Anthony Lee Information is correct at time of print. |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 17

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

MCS 135 ¢ Jason Woo is the Communications Executive at MCS Comms. / Photos courtesy of the 1HSMS Committee from left) CAC President the Rev Gregory Goh Bishop Dr Gordon Wong and Pastor Ian Wong led Nai Lat, Bishop Dr Gordon Wong and ETAC the AC Presidents engaging a rousing worship President the Rev Philip Abraham pronouncing with the youths via several segment for the 1HSMS the benediction in Chinese, English and Tamil tongue-in-cheek as well as “Night of Worship” serious questions on culture and activism Youths in 1 heart, soul, mind and strength for Christ E ven though most events planned The Rev Stanley Chua, the newly- Pastor Ian Wong, a youth pastor with for MCS 135 were shelved or minted President of the Trinity Annual Kum Yan Methodist Church, brought up postponed due to COVID-19 safety Conference (TRAC), encouraged the the importance of “relational capital” measures, the committee for 1Heart, youths to live out their faith fervently between churches and their youths. Soul, Mind, Strength (1HSMS) was in their homes and daily lives. The Rev “If you have very little relational determined to see it happen as it was Chua emphasised the importance of capital and you need to build a the landmark event bringing together this as today’s youth will be tomorrow’s relationship on Zoom, it’s hard. It’s Methodist youths across the three parents. By making their Christian easy to maintain and grow something Annual Conferences to discuss heartfelt faith real at home, they will give later if you have gone a certain distance,” issues with the church leadership as generations a “fighting chance” to stay he said. As the COVID-19 pandemic well as to praise God as one. 1HSMS grounded in Christ. continues to disrupt physical activities also marked the closing of the year- and progammes, Pastor Wong opined long MCS 135 celebration. The youth symposium saw active that churches which have built up discussions and participation from the strong relationships with their youths Taking place via Zoom on 10 Dec, Methodist youths via ZOOM over the years will be able to weather 1HSMS opened with two consecutive the storm. discussion tracks. The second was a symposium facilitated by the Rev Bernard Chao, The 1HSMS event rounded off with The first discussion involved Bishop Dr who has worked with young people as “A Night of Worship” at Kum Yan Gordon Wong and the Presidents from an Assistant Director for TRAC’s Board Methodist Church on 11 Dec. In view their respective Annual Conferences of Youth Ministry. This symposium saw of physical attendance limits, the responding to questions concerning the young participants sharing their service was also livestreamed. Bishop spirituality, pop culture and societal take on challenging questions such Dr Gordon Wong closed the event issues, as well as tackling lighthearted as “Have church programmes been and MCS 135 with a sermon urging ones such as who their favourite prioritized over people?” and “Who is Methodist youths to love God with superheroes were. missing from our churches?” all their hearts, souls and minds, and above all, to love their neighbours as One of the concerns put forth was the God loves them and to make that the growing secularity amongst youths in “most important thing” in their lives. the Church. |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 19

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One MCS ¢ GC WSCS Mrs Laureen Ong is a member of the Executive Committee of GC WSCS. / Photos courtesy of GC WSCS Divine order in God’s family The service on 29 Nov 2020, at which the Ephesians 3:14-21; 1 Corinthians 11:3 newly-elected officials were installed T he General Conference Women’s Society of Christian Service (GC Dr Teo and her IT team conducting the WSCS) held its 12th Session Quadrennial General Meeting on 28 QGM over Zoom on 28 Nov 2020 Nov 2020 on Zoom. Present were Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung, ETAC President the Rev Philip Abraham, TRAC President the Rev Stanley Chua, President-Elect of The Methodist Women in Malaysia Mrs Evelyn Sim, delegates, reserves and guests. Bishop Dr Chong delivered an opening exhortation on “God’s Divine Order for Families” based on Ephesians 5:22–25. Dr Teo Li Bee was re-elected GC WSCS President. In her greetings, Dr Teo expressed gratitude to God for His faithfulness in leading and protecting the WSCS through a unique and eventful quadrennium, the last year of which saw unprecedented challenges brought on by the COVID-19 pandemic. She added that WSCS will face new challenges ahead to explore creative methods of doing ministry through digital means to touch and transform lives. Also elected were the following WSCS Annual Conference Presidents: Mrs Daisy Ling – Chinese Annual Conference (CAC) Mrs Kalaimathi Nagulan – Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference (ETAC) Ms Neo Lay Tin – Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) The newly-elected officers were installed on 29 Nov 2020 at Barker Road Methodist Church in a service officiated by Bishop Dr Chong. With gratitude to God for His love and leading, we give all glory and honour to Jesus Christ our Lord and Saviour. The main theme for the next quadrennium, which ends in 2024, is Divine Order in God’s Family (Eph 3:14–21; 1 Cor 11:3) Sub-themes for each year are: 2021: Knowing God’s Rules for the Christian Family (1 Peter 3:1–8; Col 3:18–21; Eph 5:1–2) 2022: Developing a Loving & Trusting Relationship in the Family (1 John 3:1; Rom 12:9–10; Eph 4:1–3) 2023: Raising the Next Generation in God’s Way (Prov 22:6; Deut 11:18–19) 2024: Serving God as a Family (Joshua 24:15; Matt 12:48–50) GC WSCS was reconstituted as General Conference WSCS in The Methodist Church in Singapore in 1976. Since then, the women have been actively engaged in the ministries of the Church. GC WSCS is governed by her own constitution in The Book of Discipline and supports generously her mission to provide for the needs of women, youth, and children, in church, community and missions. Spiritually woven together in service and discipleship, and girded with prayer, WSCS serves under the three Annual Conferences (CAC, ETAC and TRAC) in Missions; Witness and Evangelism; Discipleship and Nurture; and Outreach and Social Concerns. |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 21

Welfare Services ¢ Keen to volunteer with MWS? Whether you are an individual, group or By the Methodist Welfare Services (MWS) Communications Team / Photo courtesy of MWS corporate team, we have a varied list Mdm Ang of remote volunteering opportunities leading other seniors in at our various centres. an exercise session Find out more at mws.sg/volunteer or scan the QR code. To get involved in other ways, email us at [email protected]. Recognising the strengths of our seniors in the community The network of seven MWS Senior fellow seniors to come for classes and where she would visit the seniors and Activity Centres (SACs) run by explaining the class contents. lend them her mobile phone to check out Methodist Welfare Services do more online learning courses. than just organise activities to engage When the programme ended, Mdm seniors aged 55 and above. Ang took the initiative to continue Mdm Ang exemplifies the indefatigable conducting small group exercise spirit of helping others, and we hope They have been applying the Asset-Based sessions with the seniors at the SAC. she can inspire others her age to give Community-led Development (ABCD) She had earlier picked up digital skills, back to the community while staying fit approach, which involves activating which enabled her to do Google searches and healthy. For her accomplishments, seniors to take charge of their own and make electronic payments. This Mdm Ang was bestowed the Singapore physical and psychosocial health. This spurred the tech-savvy senior to look Community Engagement Initiative shifts their role from service users to co- for instructional videos and content on Award, which seeks to recognise creators and contributors. the Internet, and share them with her members from the community who peers during the exercise sessions. lead by example and take ownership Towards this end, a Council of to care for themselves and others. It is Seniors was formed to provide peer “I like to exercise, as well as share what a new category under the annual TTSH leadership and play a major role in I’ve learnt. Instead of enjoying exercising Singapore Patient Action Awards. planning and leading activities. These on my own, I like to share this joy with activities included wellness and exercise others. When I see the seniors benefit from Serving amidst the pandemic programmes conducted in collaboration it, I’m very happy. Furthermore, I can make Mdm Ang was also eager to come back with volunteers and community partners. many friends and not be disconnected to MWS SAC – Teck Ghee Vista to lead from society,” said Mdm Ang. activities once the circuit breaker was From participant to peer leader over and physical events could resume. Mdm Ang Bong Chee was a senior Her desire to help fellow seniors extended In fact, she has since led several exercise who had signed up for the eight-week beyond the “classroom”. During the circuit sessions with the seniors with the “Rolling with Wellness” programme at breaker period, Mdm Ang was concerned necessary precautions in place. MWS Senior Activity Centre – Teck Ghee about the welfare of those living alone VistaLed by a health coach from Tan Tock or who had mobility issues. She took the “It is such a joy to exercise with seniors in Seng Hospital (TTSH), the programme initiative to call them to check on their the neighbourhood; we’re just like one big advocated exercises, healthy cooking tips well-being, and assist in various ways. family. As long as everyone cooperates by and board games. observing good hygiene, safe distancing “I built a very good relationship with and mask-wearing, we can exercise Noting her positive and optimistic some of the seniors. They trust me together and stay safe,” she said. attitude, the spritely 70-year-old was very much and asked me to collect the nominated by her health coach as a Peer TraceTogether tokens for them,” she said. This article was repackaged from Shin Min Support Leader (PSL) to lead various tasks Daily News (6 Nov 2020) and Lianhe Zaobao (7 such as taking attendance, reminding She also helped out over the weekends, Nov 2020), with additional reporting by MWS Communications Team.

Missions ¢ The Rev Derrick Lau serves as the Executive Director of Methodist Missions Society (www.mms.org.sg). MMS: An overview Past and new quadrennium Teachers running the summer programme at the Singapore Mission School Laos in 2020 The Methodist Missions Society of ensuring sustainability in the MMS VISION 2025 serves as the (MMS) was established in 1991 as funding of ongoing ministries, framework for the new quadrennium. the mission agency of The Methodist capacity for new initiatives and The thrust is “Enlarge the Tent, O Lord” Church in Singapore (MCS). MMS seeks new geography outreach. (cf. www.mms.org.sg). MMS Vision 2025 to establish indigenous churches seeks to: supported by mission endeavours in • Church Engagement is an important our region. We are committed towards initiative to engage, excite, 1. Enlarge the scope of mission. We encouraging, enlisting, engaging and encourage, equip and establish envisioned the expansion of our empowering Methodists to serve in mission interest, involvement and capacities beyond our current missions by partnering, praying for and partnerships in all our Methodist commitments in the seven countries. participating with MMS to reach those churches. We believe there is We shall focus primarily on the vast who Jesus died to redeem. We believe great value in strengthening unreached people groups in our God has called us to help rebuild, and expanding the collaboration region. restore and reconcile people to Christ. and partnership with our local churches and Annual Conferences MMS provides opportunities in the in reaching unreached peoples in 2. Engage churches, individuals and harvest fields in terms of evangelising, our region. A Church Engagement equipping and nurturing new believers; Roadmap was developed. Annual Conferences to fulfil the making disciples; planting churches and prophetic call to “fill the earth with expressing love through social concerns, • Appropriate Training Contextualized the knowledge of the Lord as the healthcare, education, livelihood to each field to empower building waters covers the sea” (Isaiah 11:9, projects and practical assistance. As at capacity and self- sustainability NIV). It includes raising missionaries, 30 Nov 2020, we have 34 missionaries through engaging with relevant developing strategic partnerships serving in seven countries and four stakeholders was ramped up both with local churches, enlarging the home-based missionaries. in Singapore and across the seas pool of prayer intercessors and for missionaries and national increasing the financial resources In the past quadrennium, MMS embarked leaders alike, whether clergy or and support. on the following priority areas: laity, so that MMS can better fulfill her call and purpose. We praise God that local churches, • A Governance Framework was individuals and Annual Conferences developed for the purposes of • Missions Manual serves to continue to provide the much-needed enhancing and providing assurance document all MMS policies and prayer and financial support for our office over governance of our field entities operational guidelines and provides and field operations. Major fund-raising and ministries. a reference to all members, present events such as the biennial banquet are and future. nevertheless necessary for funding field • A Field Strategy & Funding Policy projects (especially new projects) and for is an articulation of where MMS Succession Planning underscores replenishing our General Fund. is along the mission journey, and the notion that while we remained hence ministry focus, in each of thankful to God and appreciate the Exco Come and serve the Missio Dei together! our seven fields. It addressed and the various sub-committees for To God be the glory! the prioritisation of ministry their labour of love, we are constantly initiatives, and the budget engaged in regular conversations Excerpted from General Conference Executive planning process for the purpose about raising new leaders for missions. Council (GCEC) Report presented in Nov 2020. |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 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. Abused and powerless? It is time to take charge I t sounds like a tongue-in-cheek question: “Is there What do these children want, you may wonder. Some may a law protecting parents from being abused by their want things like the latest smartphone and gaming apps, children?” or privileges like more play or computer time. Their wants and needs may appear different but essentially boil down Increasingly, this question is being asked, not of abused to wanting more control and doing what they enjoy. elderly parents, but in the context of parents in their forties and fifties, with abusive children in their pre- Psychologists tell us what these children are craving for teen and teenage years. The abuse could be physical, ultimately is a deeper connection with their parents. This like hitting, kicking or threatening their parents with may be at odds with what some parents say—that when knives. Then there is emotional abuse like calling them they attempt to connect, their children show no interest names, shaming them in public and withholding love and or even reject them. With these children, it may be that cooperation for household chores, homework or school they had sought attention sometime earlier in their lives attendance. Some children are psychologically abusive, but were rebuffed, perhaps because the parents were e.g. threatening to harm themselves if they do not get too stressed and tired, or not attuned to their children’s what they want. needs. Now that the parents are ready to connect, their |24 METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021

children are not. The best time to attend to our children at home. He did this three times within the last year. is not when we are ready but when they need us. This parent, himself a trained counsellor, had called me for advice on getting his son to go to school. His To make sense of the negative behaviours, we need son’s intermittent school attendance in 2019 had all to examine parents’ responses. Some adopt strict but stopped (COVID-19 situation aside) during the past discipline. If this had been done consistently from nine months. the child’s early years, there may be less blatant challenging of their parents’ authority—if “the law” had After checking for reasonable causes, such as trauma been laid down clearly and firmly from the beginning, experienced in school, I encouraged him to take charge most children would abide by it. From time to time, of his son. I suggested that the very next morning, he the children may slip into mischief and misconduct, but give this son the choice of going to school either on his a firm reminder of what is acceptable and what is not own or be carried to school. As this boy was just a little would likely bring them quickly in line. The key word shorter than his father, I suggested enlisting the older here is “firm”, as opposed to “harsh” or “angry”. When brother’s help. discipline is done in anger, its intent is unclear to the child and they only learn to obey but not to respect Morning came and the boy refused to go to school. To authority. the credit of the father, older brother and the mother too, they carried him—in his sleepwear—to school Parents who find their authority challenged or are held (thankfully, it was a walk of just a few minutes). On to ransom by their children’s abusive demands are more reaching the school gate, they set him on his feet and likely to be those who had not been consistent in their handed him his school uniform. The boy was upset to be parenting. They may have started out allowing their treated this way but went to school on his own accord children to decide for themselves what they wanted. in the days following. By taking charge and being firm, In time, on realising their children’s misguided choices, they asserted parental authority over their son. they start trying to influence their children’s choices. Sadly, not many parents are willing to take this They may first attempt to use persuasion or reasoning. route. Such families may consequently endure years However, if a child of six or seven has had their own of emotionally-draining fights and the children may way most of the time, they would be less likely to grow up embittered and angry. If they express abusive surrender their autonomy and bend to the will of behaviour on others who will not stand for it, they will others. Other parents may attempt to use bribes or find doors to relationships and employment closed and incentives. The limitation to this strategy is that the doors to prison open to them. well of incentives may dry up, and when the children become demotivated, what they would likely do is to Asserting parental authority is ultimately the best show more of their displeasure. response to children who test boundaries and show disrespect. Children must learn to respect boundaries When their children’s behaviour fails to improve, and develop the capacity to moderate their emotions some parents turn to professionals—teachers, tutors, and behaviour. Parents who feel overwhelmed can career coaches, counsellors and psychologists. When work with child and adolescent professionals on their these front-line professionals do not get the desired children’s objectional behaviour. The key phrase here is compliance, some parents resort to threatening to send “work with” and not “work in place of” the critical role the children off to boarding school or to Boy’s Town, or both parents need to play. Parents should be parents. to calling the police. If you feel overwhelmed by your child’s demands and Calling the police was what an anxious and desperate this article has spoken to you, will you resolve to take parent did when his 11-year-old displayed aggression control of parenting your children this new year? |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 25

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. Lord whose love in humble service 2 020 was a year during which most of us LORD WHOSE LOVE IN HUMBLE SERVICE struggled COVID-19 broke out and, up till now, the world continues to contend with multiple Lord whose love in humble service layers of issues the pandemic has brought, such as Bore the weight of human need the heightened use of technology in health, business, Who upon the cross forsaken education, religion, the arts and even our personal and offered mercy ’s perfect deed communal relationships. Today, we are all learning to We your servants bring the worship embrace and cope with the “new normal”. Not of voice alone but heart Consecrating to Your purpose How do we see ourselves moving and God working in Ev ’ry gift that You impart this? Let us use this hymn to reflect on this question. Still Your children wander homeless The first stanza points us to the cross: the story of Still the hungry cry for bread how God intervened and saved this sinful world. The Still the captives long for freedom cross reminds us of God’s everlasting love for us. Still in grief we mourn our dead This forms the premise on which we are to embrace As O Lord in deep compassion the “new normal”. If technology is one that helps us Healed the sick and freed the soul cope with the world today, may it be consecrated for use the love your Spirit kindles God’s purpose. still to save and make us whole The second stanza reminds us that suffering continues As we worship grant us vision to be the plight of many people. In His ministry, Jesus Till Your love’s revealing light spent time with the hungry, homeless, marginalised In its height and depth and greatness and oppressed. He healed the sick, fed the hungry and Dawns upon our quicken sight comforted the needy. It was His deep compassion and Making known the needs and burdens love for people that stirred Him to do so. If COVID-19 Your compassion bids us bear has heightened our awareness of the needs of society, Stirring us to tireless striving will our love for God move us to do as Jesus did? Your abundant life to share Stanza three is an appeal for the Lord to reveal to Called by worship to your service. us the needs and burdens to which we ought to pay forth in your dear name we go attention. In response to His revelation, may we be to the child the youth the aged quick to respond with love and every ounce of our love in living deeds to show energy poured to sharing Christ’s life. hope and health good will and comfort counsel aid and peace we give As in the close of worship, the hymn calls us to go in that your servants Lord in freedom His name. To every child, youth and aged we are to may your mercy know and live show God’s love, hope, mercy and peace. This is a very tall order to fill, but we know that we are able to do it Words: Albert F. Bayly, 1961, alt. with the love of God in us, kindled by the Holy Spirit. Music: BEACH SPRING, attr. to B.F. White, 1844; harm by Ronald A. Nelson, 1978 |26 METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021

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) The challenge of Agape I n the first epistle of John, we find one of the most profound statements about God in the whole of Scripture: “God is love” (4:8). Love is the very essence of God. Love sums up His whole being. Love is what God immutably is. This assertion is radical because no other religion apart from the Judeo-Christian faith has this understanding of God. So profound is this proposition that the German theologian of the last century, Emil Brunner, could say that this “is the most daring statement that has ever been made in human language”.1 The Apostle of love goes on to write: “Beloved, if God so loved us, we also ought to love one another” (4:11). The love that we have received from God should spur us to love one another. John uses the same Greek word—agape—to describe God’s love for us and our love for each other. This suggests that we should love one another in the same way that we have been loved by God! In his fascinating book Love Within Limits, Lewis Smedes describes agapic love as “the power that moves us to respond to a neighbour’s need with no expectation of reward… It is not interested in the odds of getting some self-satisfaction in return for its efforts”.2 |METHODIST MESSAGE — January 2021 27

The Challenge of Agape Other types of love expect some reciprocity for their John stresses that loving one another in this way is object. But according to Lewis, agapic love is different important because it authenticates our love for God. in that it “is not a seeking, grasping, holding love, “If any one says, ‘I love God’, and hates his brother, but a giving love, a love that lets go. It is not the he is a liar; for he who does not love his brother who love of need, but the love of power. It is the power to he has seen, cannot love God who he has not seen” move us toward another person with no expectation (1 John 4:20). of reward”. But for John, the love that Christians have for each Is it really possible for human beings to love other is also important in another sense. It is a unconditionally in this way? Can a human love ever compelling form of Christian witness. Our love for one reflect God’s love? another shows that God abides (KJV: “dwells”; NIV: “lives”) in us (4:12). In other words, by our love we To many modern ears this idea of love sounds a little show that God is real! too quixotic. Such selfless love sounds somewhat surreal, the stuff of pious talk, maybe, but in actual This was how the early Christians bore witness to fact far removed from our common experience. Christ to their pagan neighbours. Tertullian describes this in a famous passage in The Apology: To be sure, such love is indeed impossible if we were to rely on our own resources. The great fifth century It is mainly the deeds of a love so noble that lead theologian, Augustine, describes the fallen human many to put a brand upon us. See how they love being as homo incurvatus in se, a person who—as it one another, they say, for they themselves are were—is curved in on himself, totally self-absorbed. animated by mutual hatred; how they are ready to The sinner is driven by self-interest. And this manic die for one another, they say, for they themselves egoism distorts the way the sinner sees the other. will sooner be put to death. He does not regard the other as an end in himself or herself (i.e., as someone to be loved), but as a means And this also how Christians today must proclaim to an end (i.e., as someone who can be manipulated Christ to the cultured-despisers of Christianity. and used). 1Emil Brunner, Dogmatics, Vol 1, The Christian Doctrine of The true source of agapic love, John tells us, is God. God (Philadelphia, PA: The Westminster Press, 1950), 185. God’s love is the source from which all real love flows. 2Lewis Smedes, Love Within Limits: Realising Selfless Love And by God’s grace, those who believe in Him have in a Selfish World (Grand Rapids, MI: Eerdmans, 1978), 126. the ability to display—to some extent, at least—His 3Ibid, 21. exceptional love in their lives. And yet, the love that grace makes possible in the Christian is always also a task. It is a command that the Christian must strain to obey (1 John 4:21).

Looking Ahead ¢ Scan to see events online! JANUARY PUBLIC LECTURE: IS A DIGITAL CHURCH A REAL CHURCH? JANUARY 8 Jan 2021 (Thursday) 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. / 15 Jan 2021 (Friday), 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Via ZOOM JULY Attendance is free. Registration is required. Register at https://bgst.edu.sg/events/details/222 As the Church continues to evolve in a post-pandemic world where digitisation of the worship experience has been so widely adopted, this lecture focuses on how the Church of the “new normal” can remain meaningful and worshipful for believers. Organised by the Biblical Graduate School of Theology PRAYER OF FAITH (TRAC SENIORS MINISTRY) via ZOOM 20 Jan 2021 (Wednesday), 2.30 p.m. to 4 p.m. [email protected] 9220-8954 (Priscilla) Find out more about the Prayer of Faith with the Rev Anthony Lee as he brings you through Hebrews 11:6: “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” (NIV) ZOOM details will be released closer to event. Organised by TRAC Seniors MInistry D6 FAMILY CONFERENCE 2021 30 to 31 July 2021 (Friday and Saturday) Faith Methodist Church, 400 Commonwealth Drive, S(149604) d6family.sg (Registration opens Jan 2021) fb.com/d6familysg [email protected] 6304-5286 D6 is based on the principles of Deuteronomy 6 and it urges the church and home to work together to implement generational discipleship within the churches, homes and families. The objective of D6 Conference is for the attendees to understand how they can best apply the principles of Deuteronomy 6 in their lives in order to pass on a spiritual legacy for future generations. The D6 Conference 2021 is a place where parents, pastors, church and ministry leaders can look to be equipped with practical next steps and strategies in discipling the next generation. Organised by Sower Institute for Biblical Discipleship. 2021 EQUIP COURSES Jan to Dec 2021 490 Upper Bukit Timah Road, S(678093) https://ttc.edu.sg/english/study-at-ttc/equip/ https://ttc.edu.sg/english/study-at-ttc/equip-registration/ [email protected] 6767-6677 EQUIP is a lay training initiative of Trinity Theological College. EQUIP courses are designed with lay Christians in mind and offers theological education for Christians who desire to be well equipped to live out their faith in Jesus Christ and for effective and faithful ministry. EQUIP courses are open to all Christians and there are no formal or academic entry requirements. Currently, EQUIP offers the following programmes: • Licentiate in Christian Ministry • Certificate in Christian Ministry • Certificate in Mission Practice Each course or module usually comprises seven sessions. Students have to attend a minimum of five sessions and complete the course assignments on a satisfactory basis to complete each course or module.

You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbour as yourself. Matthew 22:37–39