READY No*2 - Chosen

READY A publication of Bethesda Frankel Estate Church I MCI (P) 161/01/2014

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Bethesda (Katong) Kindergarten: Celebrating 60 Years of God's Faithfulness

Witness In The Workplace - Being Salt and Light Low Lay Chin

Contents

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READY No*2

Estate Church fl�!llflff�

4 La Salle Street Singapore 456930 Tel: 6448 1800 Fax: 6448 0831 Email: bfec(@bfec.org.sg Web: www.bfec.org.sg

2

Editorial

3

Enduring Pains, But An Even More Enduring Christ

Editor

Jimmy Tan

6

Editorial Team

Priscilla Soh Diana Chin Wong Lee Pin (BKK Feature) Janis Lim Matthias Ong Evelyn Tan

7 Questions

9

Spurring One Another On

Design and Layout

Abigail Ng

Printer

Regent Printing (S) Pte Ltd

Cover Photo

Teoh Teng Ngan

Views expressed in published articles are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Team or the Church Council.

Your contributions to READY are welcome and should be submitted to editor@bfec.org.sg. The Editor reserves the right to accept, reject or edit any articles submitted for publication.

Sunday Services Worship Services: English 8am & 10am/Chinese 9.30am Children: English 10am/Chinese 9.30am Youth: English 12pm/Chinese 9.30am Filipino & Indonesian: 10.15am

11

They (and We) Are Everything in Christ

15

Witness in the Workplace Being Salt and Light

18

Bethesda (Katong) Kindergarten - Celebrating 60 Years of God's Faithfulness (A Special Feature)

21

Bethesda (Katong) Kindergarten is the Right Choice!

22

Growing Little Childen, God's Way

25

BKK Milestones

27

Down Memory Lane

38

Kudos to the Kindergarten From Parents of our Children

40

Staff of Bethesda (Katong) Kindergarten

41

?Numbers

Contents

e

1t ��::�·

READY No*2

Estate Church fl�!llflff�

4 La Salle Street Singapore 456930 Tel: 6448 1800 Fax: 6448 0831 Email: bfec(@bfec.org.sg Web: www.bfec.org.sg

2

Editorial

3

Enduring Pains, But An Even More Enduring Christ

Editor

Jimmy Tan

6

Editorial Team

Priscilla Soh Diana Chin Wong Lee Pin (BKK Feature) Janis Lim Matthias Ong Evelyn Tan

7 Questions

9

Spurring One Another On

Design and Layout

Abigail Ng

Printer

Regent Printing (S) Pte Ltd

Cover Photo

Teoh Teng Ngan

Views expressed in published articles are those of the individual writers and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Editorial Team or the Church Council.

Your contributions to READY are welcome and should be submitted to editor@bfec.org.sg. The Editor reserves the right to accept, reject or edit any articles submitted for publication.

Sunday Services Worship Services: English 8am & 10am/Chinese 9.30am Children: English 10am/Chinese 9.30am Youth: English 12pm/Chinese 9.30am Filipino & Indonesian: 10.15am

11

They (and We) Are Everything in Christ

15

Witness in the Workplace Being Salt and Light

18

Bethesda (Katong) Kindergarten - Celebrating 60 Years of God's Faithfulness (A Special Feature)

21

Bethesda (Katong) Kindergarten is the Right Choice!

22

Growing Little Childen, God's Way

25

BKK Milestones

27

Down Memory Lane

38

Kudos to the Kindergarten From Parents of our Children

40

Staff of Bethesda (Katong) Kindergarten

41

?Numbers

EDITORIAL

Welcome back to READY!

In this issue, we will encounter choices made by people - from a remote area of Lisu in China to our familiar selves in the workplace and home, and even the choices made by BKK's principal and staff in shaping the curriculum and guiding principle in educating and nurturing the children who come under their care. In all these choices, one thing is clear - the choice to focus on God, to draw upon His strength and wisdom, and to lead a life pleasing to Him.

You may have noticed that this is a "bumper issue". We have included a very special feature to celebrate and commemorate the 60th anniversary of our grand old dame, Bethesda (Katong) Kindergarten (BKK). This feature owes much to the efforts of Miss Irene Wee and Miss Wong Lee Pin who gathered the material and contacted ex-kindergarteners and parents to put together a heartwarming trip down the proverbial memory lane.

When I read through our sister Fang Fang's draft article, I marvelled at the strength with which her Lisu friends faced their sufferings. Their pain was enduring but the thought that came to my mind was "our Christ is even more enduring".

Hence, the title of her article. Let us remember that our loving God is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. He has promised that one day, He will wipe away every tear. There will be no more death, mourning, crying or pain (Revelation 21:4). Let us take heart that "If I say, "My foot slips", Your mercy, 0 Lord, will hold me up. In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul." (Psalm 94:18-19).

We are chosen and we have a choice.

Our theme for this issue is "Chosen". This word carries a profound meaning for all of us, for isn't a large part of life determined by the choices we make? It's not just about practical, everyday choices like what to eat or wear, which route to take in order to avoid heavy traffic, or even which schools to send our children to. It's about impactful choices; the ones which change the course of our lives and even that of those around us.

Photo by Priscilla Soh

Not only do we choose, we are also chosen.

We must realize and embrace the fact that we have been chosen and loved by God in and through His Son, Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:4). Knowing how wide and long and deep and high is the love of Christ (Ephesians 3:18) for us can often be a turning point in life.

Get READY to dip into this issue and we hope you enjoy what we have put together for you!

Priscilla Soh Editorial team

2

EDITORIAL

Welcome back to READY!

In this issue, we will encounter choices made by people - from a remote area of Lisu in China to our familiar selves in the workplace and home, and even the choices made by BKK's principal and staff in shaping the curriculum and guiding principle in educating and nurturing the children who come under their care. In all these choices, one thing is clear - the choice to focus on God, to draw upon His strength and wisdom, and to lead a life pleasing to Him.

You may have noticed that this is a "bumper issue". We have included a very special feature to celebrate and commemorate the 60th anniversary of our grand old dame, Bethesda (Katong) Kindergarten (BKK). This feature owes much to the efforts of Miss Irene Wee and Miss Wong Lee Pin who gathered the material and contacted ex-kindergarteners and parents to put together a heartwarming trip down the proverbial memory lane.

When I read through our sister Fang Fang's draft article, I marvelled at the strength with which her Lisu friends faced their sufferings. Their pain was enduring but the thought that came to my mind was "our Christ is even more enduring".

Hence, the title of her article. Let us remember that our loving God is the Alpha and the Omega, the Beginning and the End. He has promised that one day, He will wipe away every tear. There will be no more death, mourning, crying or pain (Revelation 21:4). Let us take heart that "If I say, "My foot slips", Your mercy, 0 Lord, will hold me up. In the multitude of my anxieties within me, Your comforts delight my soul." (Psalm 94:18-19).

We are chosen and we have a choice.

Our theme for this issue is "Chosen". This word carries a profound meaning for all of us, for isn't a large part of life determined by the choices we make? It's not just about practical, everyday choices like what to eat or wear, which route to take in order to avoid heavy traffic, or even which schools to send our children to. It's about impactful choices; the ones which change the course of our lives and even that of those around us.

Photo by Priscilla Soh

Not only do we choose, we are also chosen.

We must realize and embrace the fact that we have been chosen and loved by God in and through His Son, Jesus Christ (Ephesians 1:4). Knowing how wide and long and deep and high is the love of Christ (Ephesians 3:18) for us can often be a turning point in life.

Get READY to dip into this issue and we hope you enjoy what we have put together for you!

Priscilla Soh Editorial team

2

ENDURING PAINS, BUT AN EVEN MORE ENDURING CHRIST Tan Fang Fang spent nine years living with the Lisu People in East Asia. Together with her Lisu friends, she set up a mental health facility to provide diagnosis and treatment to the mentally ill living in the mountains. Since her return to Singapore, Fang Fang has enrolled in the East Asian School of Theology and continues to work with BFEC. Fang Fang's passion is to see the people she works with experience and enjoy the beauty and glory of Jesus Christ. In this article, Fang Fang shares how hurts and disadvantages in life are no foil to the plans and purposes of a loving God who is unchanging.

Do you ever feel that sometimes the experiences in life that affect you, change you, that leave a mark on you (for good or for bad) are not always the most intensely agonizing events, but the ones that seem to plod on forever? The ones that are pervasively sorrowful, touching almost every part of your life, that leave its fingerprint on everything that matters to you?

However, there are experiences and life events that can wound us for a long time. Ever since my friend, Ah Du, found out that her husband betrayed her with another woman, when she was hiding from the authorities and pregnant with their third child, she has never stopped hurting.

Every day is a struggle to forgive him, to trust him anew, to let him back into her life as well as the lives of their children. This is a woman who has been through much! Ah Du grew up in a family with nine other siblings. Her father was mentally ill and often could not find work so they were almost always hungry. They were despised even by the people in their own village for their mentally ill father and for being that much poorer than everyone else. Ah Du lost three of her older brothers to death and disease. It was a grievous loss because they had always loved and protected her. Yet, ask her what has been the hardest, the most difficult and devastating event in her life so far, and she will tell you that it is this marital betrayal. It is the daily forgiving, the enduring wounds, and the constant, unyielding doubts.

When my earthly father passed away, I mourned deeply. I mourned for my mother who would now enter a new phase of life as a widow.

A season of loneliness without her husband.

I mourned for myself. My father was my best friend in many ways. He was my moral compass and spiritual guide. Still, I rejoiced that he was no longer living in his broken body but was now able to see Christ face-to-face in sinless joy. So, although I grieved this loss, my pain was not enduring nor unrelenting. That season of immense loss was mingled with comfort. It passed, and it was over.

3

My friend, Ah Deng, also deals with an enduring pain. He lives with schizophrenia. It started when he was 17 years of age. He is now almost 27. Living high up in the mountains, his constant relapses into catatonia means his life is often threatened by dread complications that stem from it. Poor, as well as sick, it means no woman will ever marry him. This, in turn, means he will never have any children who can care for him if he survives into old age. Ah Deng and his family constantly pray that God will remove this burden.

They faithfully ask God for healing. Yet, Ah Deng's hope is not in his healing although he yearns for it. Ah Deng's hope is in God. His favourite hymn is "Jesus loves me, this I know". Ah Deng knows that while his schizophrenia is unrelenting, Christ's love for him is greater and neverending. How have my Lisu friends' afflictions left their mark?

In what ways have their afflictions shaped them and transformed them and made them the very persons they are?

They are like Paul who said, "We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead."

(2 Corinthians 1:8-9) It is the mystery of Christ who magnifies Himself most clearly by the way my friends have experienced Him in their losses. Even though they have neither been blessed with wealth or health, God still satisfies them and the world sees that God is their treasure. When all the props they have leaned on all their lives (their loved ones, their health, their physical beauty) fall away, they still have God to cling on to. They continue to trust Him, abide in Him and the world sees that God is their gain. God is greatly glorified by their lives. Can we say the same for our own lives? Is God glorified despite our struggles or do we bury Him beneath our pain?

Ah Du struggles daily not to sin against her husband out of anger, searing pain and bitter disappointment. After so many years, it intensifies her longing to be in sinless joy with her Father one 4

ENDURING PAINS, BUT AN EVEN MORE ENDURING CHRIST Tan Fang Fang spent nine years living with the Lisu People in East Asia. Together with her Lisu friends, she set up a mental health facility to provide diagnosis and treatment to the mentally ill living in the mountains. Since her return to Singapore, Fang Fang has enrolled in the East Asian School of Theology and continues to work with BFEC. Fang Fang's passion is to see the people she works with experience and enjoy the beauty and glory of Jesus Christ. In this article, Fang Fang shares how hurts and disadvantages in life are no foil to the plans and purposes of a loving God who is unchanging.

Do you ever feel that sometimes the experiences in life that affect you, change you, that leave a mark on you (for good or for bad) are not always the most intensely agonizing events, but the ones that seem to plod on forever? The ones that are pervasively sorrowful, touching almost every part of your life, that leave its fingerprint on everything that matters to you?

However, there are experiences and life events that can wound us for a long time. Ever since my friend, Ah Du, found out that her husband betrayed her with another woman, when she was hiding from the authorities and pregnant with their third child, she has never stopped hurting.

Every day is a struggle to forgive him, to trust him anew, to let him back into her life as well as the lives of their children. This is a woman who has been through much! Ah Du grew up in a family with nine other siblings. Her father was mentally ill and often could not find work so they were almost always hungry. They were despised even by the people in their own village for their mentally ill father and for being that much poorer than everyone else. Ah Du lost three of her older brothers to death and disease. It was a grievous loss because they had always loved and protected her. Yet, ask her what has been the hardest, the most difficult and devastating event in her life so far, and she will tell you that it is this marital betrayal. It is the daily forgiving, the enduring wounds, and the constant, unyielding doubts.

When my earthly father passed away, I mourned deeply. I mourned for my mother who would now enter a new phase of life as a widow.

A season of loneliness without her husband.

I mourned for myself. My father was my best friend in many ways. He was my moral compass and spiritual guide. Still, I rejoiced that he was no longer living in his broken body but was now able to see Christ face-to-face in sinless joy. So, although I grieved this loss, my pain was not enduring nor unrelenting. That season of immense loss was mingled with comfort. It passed, and it was over.

3

My friend, Ah Deng, also deals with an enduring pain. He lives with schizophrenia. It started when he was 17 years of age. He is now almost 27. Living high up in the mountains, his constant relapses into catatonia means his life is often threatened by dread complications that stem from it. Poor, as well as sick, it means no woman will ever marry him. This, in turn, means he will never have any children who can care for him if he survives into old age. Ah Deng and his family constantly pray that God will remove this burden.

They faithfully ask God for healing. Yet, Ah Deng's hope is not in his healing although he yearns for it. Ah Deng's hope is in God. His favourite hymn is "Jesus loves me, this I know". Ah Deng knows that while his schizophrenia is unrelenting, Christ's love for him is greater and neverending. How have my Lisu friends' afflictions left their mark?

In what ways have their afflictions shaped them and transformed them and made them the very persons they are?

They are like Paul who said, "We do not want you to be uninformed, brothers and sisters, about the troubles we experienced in the province of Asia. We were under great pressure, far beyond our ability to endure, so that we despaired of life itself. Indeed, we felt we had received the sentence of death. But this happened that we might not rely on ourselves but on God, who raises the dead."

(2 Corinthians 1:8-9) It is the mystery of Christ who magnifies Himself most clearly by the way my friends have experienced Him in their losses. Even though they have neither been blessed with wealth or health, God still satisfies them and the world sees that God is their treasure. When all the props they have leaned on all their lives (their loved ones, their health, their physical beauty) fall away, they still have God to cling on to. They continue to trust Him, abide in Him and the world sees that God is their gain. God is greatly glorified by their lives. Can we say the same for our own lives? Is God glorified despite our struggles or do we bury Him beneath our pain?

Ah Du struggles daily not to sin against her husband out of anger, searing pain and bitter disappointment. After so many years, it intensifies her longing to be in sinless joy with her Father one 4

In "Don't Waste Your Life", John Piper writes, "What a tragic waste when people turn away from the Calvary road of love and suffering.

All the riches of the glory of God in Christ are on that road. All the sweetest fellowship with Jesus is there. All the treasures of assurance.

All the ecstasies of joy. All the clearest sightings of eternity. All the noblest camaraderie. All the humblest affections. All the most tender acts of forgiving kindness. All the deepest discoveries of God's Word. All the most earnest prayers. They are all on the Calvary road where Jesus walks with his people. Take up your cross and follow Jesus. On this road, and this road alone, life is Christ and death is gain."

day. Ah Deng's chronic illness in a broken body intensifies his hope to experience the glory of God when, at last, he too will be made whole in body and mind.

This very longing, this very hope that grows and deepens and satisfies through suffering, is as much a part of my friends' identity as their sufferings are. We are reminded that "more than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us."

(Romans 5:3-5)

7 Questions Elder Roland Tan has been an Elder in BFEC since 2006. He is married to Ying Kheng and they have a daughter, Julienne and son-in-law, Kelvin. The family serves together at the Grow (@ Noon ministry which was previously known as the Senior Sunday School (SSS) where Roland served as Superintendent for many years.

Roland has been a full-time staff of Cru Singapore (formerly known as Campus Crusade for Christ) since graduating from the National University of Singapore ("NUS") in 1974. He served as a missionary in Hong Kong & South Korea, and later as a National Team Leader from 1996-2006. He joined East Asia School of Theology (EAST) in July 2006, after raising a good leadership team to care for Cru Singapore.

He is currently the Dean of Extension while Ying Kheng is the Field Education Director at EAST. Elder Roland and Ying Kheng share some insights into their life in this issue's 7 Questions.

1. Tell us about your first date.

YK: Our first date was at the NUS Guild House on the Bukit Timah campus where Roland worked as a campus staff with the then Campus Crusade for Christ. As soon as our hor fun and chin chow arrived, Roland asked, "What's your 10-year plan?" I didn't even have a five-day plan! Unbeknownst to us, two years after that first date, God called me to join the Operations Mobilizations (OM) ministry with the MV Logos in Africa, and then with a land team in India. Exactly five years from that first date, I returned home and married Roland on 6 October 1979.

2. Do you both ever fight?

YK: Roland doesn't like to fight so he's a "ÂŁlighter" while I am a direct communicator (aka "fighter"). Usually, I would be the one doing the quarrelling while he'd stay silent. At the beginning of our relationship, our quarrels were mostly centred on him wanting to serve with Cru while I wasn't sure if that was my calling. After we were married, we fought over normal "couple things", e.g., he is super neat and organized while I'm free-spirited so everything was free to be anywhere! Over the years, we have learnt not to major on the minor and to submit to one another in the fear of the Lord. We both have very sad memories of domestic violence in our childhood.

5

6

In "Don't Waste Your Life", John Piper writes, "What a tragic waste when people turn away from the Calvary road of love and suffering.

All the riches of the glory of God in Christ are on that road. All the sweetest fellowship with Jesus is there. All the treasures of assurance.

All the ecstasies of joy. All the clearest sightings of eternity. All the noblest camaraderie. All the humblest affections. All the most tender acts of forgiving kindness. All the deepest discoveries of God's Word. All the most earnest prayers. They are all on the Calvary road where Jesus walks with his people. Take up your cross and follow Jesus. On this road, and this road alone, life is Christ and death is gain."

day. Ah Deng's chronic illness in a broken body intensifies his hope to experience the glory of God when, at last, he too will be made whole in body and mind.

This very longing, this very hope that grows and deepens and satisfies through suffering, is as much a part of my friends' identity as their sufferings are. We are reminded that "more than that, we rejoice in our sufferings, knowing that suffering produces endurance, and endurance produces character, and character produces hope, and hope does not put us to shame, because God's love has been poured into our hearts through the Holy Spirit who has been given to us."

(Romans 5:3-5)

7 Questions Elder Roland Tan has been an Elder in BFEC since 2006. He is married to Ying Kheng and they have a daughter, Julienne and son-in-law, Kelvin. The family serves together at the Grow (@ Noon ministry which was previously known as the Senior Sunday School (SSS) where Roland served as Superintendent for many years.

Roland has been a full-time staff of Cru Singapore (formerly known as Campus Crusade for Christ) since graduating from the National University of Singapore ("NUS") in 1974. He served as a missionary in Hong Kong & South Korea, and later as a National Team Leader from 1996-2006. He joined East Asia School of Theology (EAST) in July 2006, after raising a good leadership team to care for Cru Singapore.

He is currently the Dean of Extension while Ying Kheng is the Field Education Director at EAST. Elder Roland and Ying Kheng share some insights into their life in this issue's 7 Questions.

1. Tell us about your first date.

YK: Our first date was at the NUS Guild House on the Bukit Timah campus where Roland worked as a campus staff with the then Campus Crusade for Christ. As soon as our hor fun and chin chow arrived, Roland asked, "What's your 10-year plan?" I didn't even have a five-day plan! Unbeknownst to us, two years after that first date, God called me to join the Operations Mobilizations (OM) ministry with the MV Logos in Africa, and then with a land team in India. Exactly five years from that first date, I returned home and married Roland on 6 October 1979.

2. Do you both ever fight?

YK: Roland doesn't like to fight so he's a "ÂŁlighter" while I am a direct communicator (aka "fighter"). Usually, I would be the one doing the quarrelling while he'd stay silent. At the beginning of our relationship, our quarrels were mostly centred on him wanting to serve with Cru while I wasn't sure if that was my calling. After we were married, we fought over normal "couple things", e.g., he is super neat and organized while I'm free-spirited so everything was free to be anywhere! Over the years, we have learnt not to major on the minor and to submit to one another in the fear of the Lord. We both have very sad memories of domestic violence in our childhood.

5

6

3. Have you ever woken up from bed and not feel like talking to God? YK: More like waking up and rushing around like a crazy bird and FORGETTING to talk to God. But that's in the past. Now I don't know how to start a day without talking to God. As for Roland, as far as I know, I have never ever woken up and not seen him at his table reading his Bible in the 35 years we've been married.

He also keeps a little notebook where he records his Bible verses and reflection.

Philippians 4:7 has helped us to experience "the peace of God, which transcends human understanding" that comes as we pray about all things that cause anxiety.

4. Your daughter, Julienne, has grown up to be a God-fearing, people­ loving woman. Any tips to share with young parents?

R: Be real and admit your weaknesses. Let them see that your faith is the result of a journey and that they have all the time to grow and mature. And always love people - don't criticise others at the dinner table when your innocent-looking ones are really not very innocently absorbing everything you say. If our children don't see us loving people, they will not believe we love them. Pray with and for them as often as possible.

S. How has life changed since Julienne got married?

R: Julienne and Kelvin live about five minutes away from EAST seminary where we teach. We meet at least two or three times a week (plus we serve together at Grow@ Noon). In the past, before she was married, we saw one another all the time but we had short quick conversations. Now we see her less but enjoy deeper and longer sharing and discussions. Julienne being married has actually freed us from waiting up for her whenever she went out on dates, although we miss her every time we go into her former room.

6. "Clean Bibles, dirty Christians; dirty Bibles, clean Christians" - many of us grew up hearing you (Roland) say this. What does it mean to you?

R: I learnt from Dr Benjamin Chew that "the difference between reading and studying the Bible is a pencil". My ex-communist trainer at the then Campus Crusade for Christ staff training in Manila in 1974 told me that a short pencil is better than a long (unreliable) memory. So whenever I feel God is speaking to me, I would underline the verse and pray for ways to apply it to my life. As I progressed in life, I saw many verses marked, circled, arrowed, coloured, cross­ referenced, and dated whenever I revisited those bible passages. My Bible looks "dirty" but it is my life compass. It is a source of divine wisdom and authority for my life and ministry.

7. Before you found Jesus, where or what did you find your identity in?

YK: Before I found Jesus, my identity came from everywhere - the latest trend, the most popular who's who of the season. Everything kept changing and offered no satisfaction. But now, in Christ, I live free.

R: I knew Christ before I was 10 years old. My dad was my hero. In Christ, I find hope for my life on this planet and beyond.

7

8

3. Have you ever woken up from bed and not feel like talking to God? YK: More like waking up and rushing around like a crazy bird and FORGETTING to talk to God. But that's in the past. Now I don't know how to start a day without talking to God. As for Roland, as far as I know, I have never ever woken up and not seen him at his table reading his Bible in the 35 years we've been married.

He also keeps a little notebook where he records his Bible verses and reflection.

Philippians 4:7 has helped us to experience "the peace of God, which transcends human understanding" that comes as we pray about all things that cause anxiety.

4. Your daughter, Julienne, has grown up to be a God-fearing, people­ loving woman. Any tips to share with young parents?

R: Be real and admit your weaknesses. Let them see that your faith is the result of a journey and that they have all the time to grow and mature. And always love people - don't criticise others at the dinner table when your innocent-looking ones are really not very innocently absorbing everything you say. If our children don't see us loving people, they will not believe we love them. Pray with and for them as often as possible.

S. How has life changed since Julienne got married?

R: Julienne and Kelvin live about five minutes away from EAST seminary where we teach. We meet at least two or three times a week (plus we serve together at Grow@ Noon). In the past, before she was married, we saw one another all the time but we had short quick conversations. Now we see her less but enjoy deeper and longer sharing and discussions. Julienne being married has actually freed us from waiting up for her whenever she went out on dates, although we miss her every time we go into her former room.

6. "Clean Bibles, dirty Christians; dirty Bibles, clean Christians" - many of us grew up hearing you (Roland) say this. What does it mean to you?

R: I learnt from Dr Benjamin Chew that "the difference between reading and studying the Bible is a pencil". My ex-communist trainer at the then Campus Crusade for Christ staff training in Manila in 1974 told me that a short pencil is better than a long (unreliable) memory. So whenever I feel God is speaking to me, I would underline the verse and pray for ways to apply it to my life. As I progressed in life, I saw many verses marked, circled, arrowed, coloured, cross­ referenced, and dated whenever I revisited those bible passages. My Bible looks "dirty" but it is my life compass. It is a source of divine wisdom and authority for my life and ministry.

7. Before you found Jesus, where or what did you find your identity in?

YK: Before I found Jesus, my identity came from everywhere - the latest trend, the most popular who's who of the season. Everything kept changing and offered no satisfaction. But now, in Christ, I live free.

R: I knew Christ before I was 10 years old. My dad was my hero. In Christ, I find hope for my life on this planet and beyond.

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SPURRING ONE ANOTHER ON

SPURRING ONE ANOTHER ON

THEY (AND WE) ARE EVERYTHING IN CHRIST The Junior Sunday School CJSS) had their stay-in camp this year from 21-23 March 2014. The camp theme was "Who Am I?". It was held at the People's Association Pasir Ris Holiday Camp and the children, teachers and volunteers all had a fun-filled time as they learnt to walk with God, confident of who they are in Him. Matthias Ong, also known fondly as "Uncle Matthias" to the JSS children, shares his moving experience with us.

Bus doors close and this year's Junior Sunday School (JSS) camp comes to an end. For the Junior 6s, it was their last JSS camp. For some of the younger ones, it was their first time being away from home. For many of the more seasoned campers, it was yet another wonderful time to remember.

wondering to myself if a young child would be able to understand such profound messages.

Dorm Daddy, Nick Chung, seemingly had the same thoughts as I when he posted on Facebook, "Maybe at this stage of their lives, it is not the right doctrine or theology of God that matters much to these little imps but building the foundation and anchoring their roots on the knowledge and conviction that there is a God who loves them no matter what. So that in the [seasons] of growing up, this is the basis they keep coming back to and rely[ing] on."

The JSS camp is one of the most challenging times in the year for JSS teachers and parents, whether for those planning the camp, running around with the groups, preparing the games, or washing the cups and plates after each meal. Yet, it is always meaningful. Ask your child. Ask someone who has a child who went to the JSS camp. Ask a JSS teacher or helper. They will undoubtedly tell you that being at JSS camp is a blessing.

For me, I have personally come across many children in my life - children from welfare homes, children who have never eaten at McDonald's, friends' children, children staying in dumpsters overseas, and children in JSS. From head to toe, they are decked in different colours, brands and forms - some more raggedly so than others. I continued to catch glimpses of this same diversity at JSS camp. I saw the multitude of different shoe designs (from "Transformers" to "Barbie") at camp and the different hairstyles they woke up with in the morning. They had different personalities, different strengths and talents showcased at Talent Night. The thought that came to mind was

This year, I tell the story of JSS camp from an adult's viewpoint through the lives of the children and the child-like faith God always tells us to have.

This year's JSS camp focused unusually on "big, adult messages", taking reference from the "Who Am I" pulpit series for March/April 2014. I am Loved. I am Saved. I am Forgiven. I am Victorious.

I am Empowered. I am Blessed. I am a Saint. When it was first announced that these messages would be the focus of this year's JSS camp, I remember 11

how interesting it was that these children wanted to be different or, in some cases, how their parents wanted them to be different.

one upper primary boy whom we shall call "T".

I vividly remember that he was quite a handful during camps of the past but having grown up learning and experiencing Christ, he now has the joy of the Lord. He laughed and smiled a lot throughout the camp, and just by exhibiting the fruit of the Spirit, he brought joy to those around him. On the last day of camp, both T and I were cleaning the toilets when we accidentally showered ourselves and got drenched. While I was shocked, he smiled and we had a good time laughing about it. That moment of bonding with T really warmed my heart.

And so I pondered...when we teach the children about creation, we always teach about the creation of man on the 6th day. God said He created man in the image of God. We were all made in the same image which means we are essentially similar. Along the way, we wanted to take things into our own hands. We wanted to be God, and we looked for that different, unique path to take and define our own identity. However, God, seeing how lost we were, sent Jesus who opened His arms to receive all who came to Him. Each one of us is a special child of God.

The JSS camp was a good opportunity for us to walk hand in hand with these precious children apart from the weekly lessons we have with them. Camp was just three days, but we will continue to walk with them for the other 362 days and encourage them even as they build their own identities as a Child of God. Even one day with God can make a huge difference in these young lives.

Noah Liew, from Junior 3, is one such boy who knows that he is special in God's eyes. He is not afraid to identify himself with Christ and recognise himself as a sinner. His namesake in the Bible was a great, and likely big-sized, man whose story is familiar to young and old alike.

This little Noah is different from his namesake in the Bible but he loves and follows God similarly.

Even as he learnt from Elder Chua Soon Boon that we, having accepted Christ were "saints", he clearly understood that a "saint" was not made to be different and holier than thou but made to love, just as God first loved us. It was about how he follows God, loves God, and loves his neighbours.

I had the chance to witness this when his father returned from an overseas trip and dropped by the campsite. Noah ran straight into his father's arms with sincere and heartfelt emotion and I thought, one day, he will be running into his Heavenly Father's arms in the same way too.

To my own question of whether a child of only eight years old would understand such deep messages concerning his/her identity in Christ, I now say confidently "Of course! His sheep (and lambs) hear his voice!"

At JSS, we have love in our hearts for these children. We try to keep that little spark in them alive for Jesus and to sow as many mustard seeds as we can. No matter what size, shape or personality, each child has a place with God as long as they so desire Him. That is why Jesus came, and that is what we want each child to know.

As in our own childhood, every child has his or her naughty moments in their unique growing up process. However, with God, change is about transformation. As one of the teachers-in-charge of the group "Loved", something struck me about 12

13

14

WITNESS IN THE WORKPLACE - BEING SALT AND LIGHT Many of us work, whether it be in an office, in church, or at home.

Work presents a challenge, not only in terms of the technical and professional difficulties, but in our relationships with our bosses, peers, subordinates and work contacts. To Low Lay Chin, Matthew 5:13-16 applies to every situation in our lives. In this article, she focuses on how she applies the God-honouring commands and principles of being salt and light in her work life. She shares four main principles which have guided her in the workplace, together with personal anecdotes.

Lay Chin is married to Tan Lai Yong. They have two children.

became more open in showing his dislike of her in front of me.

"You are the salt of the earth. But if the salt loses its saltiness, how can it be made salty again? It is no longer good for anything, except to be thrown out and trampled underfoot. You are the light of

I tried not to participate in the gossip or the politics. As the newest and most junior clerk, I had no choice but to listen politely to the complaints of others. I thought about how to be different. I tried not to encourage gossip by asking for details and I made it a point to be on talking terms with everyone. Soon, people knew that I talked to everyone in the department and that I was not into office politics.

the world. A town built on a hill cannot be hidden.

Neither do people light a lamp and put it under a bowl. Instead they put it on its stand, and it gives light to everyone in the house. In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven".

(Matthew 5:13-16) 1. Avoiding office politics - as a teen

I often arrived early at work and so did the lady manager. At first I was somewhat afraid to be too friendly, after seeing all the negative vibes that the others had of her. As time went by, she started approaching me to chit chat. I realized how lonely and hard it must have been for her. To cut the story short, I was able to share with her a copy of "The Daily Bread". By the end of four months, when I was leaving the bank, she came up to me and said that she had started to attend church and had joined the church choir too. The atmosphere in the department had also changed for the better,

While waiting for my "flt level results, I worked as a bank clerk. It was my first experience of office politics. The two managers in the same department did not get along. The rest of the staff aligned themselves with the male manager who was in charge of my work. As I was a new employee, many would share gossip with me regarding colleagues in the department and especially, how the two managers did not get along. At first, the male manager was discreet in his dislike of the female manager. Later, he 15

for example, the managers were talking more politely to each other.

that there would be fewer obstacles in being a Christian witness.

2. Taking a stand for Christ

Once, when I was still a junior staff, I was misunderstood and misjudged and was used as a pawn in a "power struggle" of sorts. I remembered that I kept quiet (maybe I was too shocked to say anything) and how I struggled internally on how to react in the most Christ-like way. I went home and cried so hard. I was glad that Lai Yong, my husband, was there for me. We prayed and left it in God's hands to help me out of the situation.

Months went by and I continued to give my best at work, really working as unto God. One day, I was told that I did a great job at organizing a big important event for the school. The storm seemed to die down and things settled down at work. That reminded me of my first exit interview with my manager when I left the audit firm. He was surprised that I wanted to leave when I had good performance reviews. When I said that I was not really interested in auditing, he said it could not be true. He said that I could not be unhappy and yet do a good job. I told him, as a Christian, I would give my best even though it was not the job that I was interested in. He simply could not understand that. I hope that this continues to serve as a witness to him today.

- in my early twenties

Upon graduation from university, I began working in an audit firm. I found myself in the midst of people who were as diverse as they could possibly be. The most junior staff would be people like me - fresh graduates. I was working with highly intelligent, experienced and overworked professionals. There was this senior in my group who was very friendly and jolly. However, he had an irreverent attitude and often made fun of Christianity and God. One day, he was his usual self, taking swipes at Christians. I took the courage to tell him that it was not nice of him to make fun of Christians.

He was surprised and wanted to argue with me.

A fellow Christian decided to support me and we both told him what we thought of his behaviour.

After that incident, he did not make fun of us anymore. I was not being courageous in speaking up. Instead, if I had not walked the talk, he would not have taken my views seriously.

After a few years, I went to work in an international company. I was soon transferred to a department where working overtime was the norm. I negotiated with the new manager before I was transferred over. He had specifically requested for my transfer. Among the things we negotiated on was the issue of working on Sundays. I was adamant that I would not work on Sundays. I said I had to go to church. He said, half-jokingly, that he would come to church and drag me to the office to work. Finally, I said that I would work on Sunday afternoons if he would sit in at the church services on Sunday mornings with me. During my stint with this department, I never had to work on Sundays!

3. Working hard at the workplace - in my late twenties

After getting my professional accreditation, I decided to go into the education sector. I enjoyed teaching and I enjoyed the learning environment.

However, I was aware that it would not necessarily mean that there would be less office politics or 16

4. Witnessing with my life - from then to now

As a more mature person now, I am more secure in knowing who I am in Christ. It does not mean that I am immune to office politics or trials in the workplace. I still hold on to the same belief as when I first started my journey as a young working adult - to be salt and light for Him. There will be times when my colleagues and I talk about people, about situations, about our students, about our workplace. The most important thing is not to be vindictive and be maliciously gossiping. By helping each other see a situation more clearly and not be mean, spiteful and hurtful, we have already begun to make the workplace a better place.

I try to make the places I am in better and happier places. Having the church as a family has taught me about community, and so I often try to promote the sense of community within the workplace. There is no need to be upset or dismayed if some do not wish to embrace the same beliefs and participate in the same endeavour.

When the journey hits a rough patch, praying and trusting that God is in control helps me a lot.

Work is a gift from God but my husband often reminds and encourages me that I am loved by God, not because of my work or my role as a mother and a wife, but because of who I am in Christ.

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BETHESDA (KATONG) KINDERGARTEN

A SPECIAL FEATURE

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Foreword

BETHESDA (KATONG) KINDERGARTEN IS THE RIGHT CHOICE! Mr Quek Mong Hua is the Chairman of the Bethesda (Katong) Kindergarten (BKK) Board. His wife, Bee Poh, and three children, Dorea, Deborah and David all attended BKK.

Our three children, now in their early twenties, all had their early childhood education at BKK.

With humility and respect, we also encourage all to see that the achievements of BKK would not have been possible except by the grace of God. The collaborative efforts between BKK and us parents is also important. We cannot simply delegate our parental responsibilities to the kindergarten but we must support and complement the excellent work of the principal and staff at BKK.

When our eldest child was ready for kindergarten, like all first time parents, we were eager to give her the best. The attractive first impression for us was BKK's motto based on Proverbs 22:6; "Train up a child in the way he should go; even when he is old he will not depart from it." My wife needed little persuasion. She was an alumnus of BKK from the 1960s and she was certain that BKK successfully practised its motto by the grace of God.

My wife and I thank God that our three children have grown up to be the fine young persons that they are, precious and cherished by God, and boldly living out the inspiring pledges they made at their graduation ceremony to be True, Brave, Strong, Loving and Caring!

This year, we celebrate BKK's 60th anniversary.

We join in the celebrations with the thousands who have passed through her doors. Some families have had up to three generations attend BKK. Surely, through BKK, we have all experienced the goodness of the Lord for our children in tangible and intangible ways.

With the benefit of our experience, we are pleased to strongly recommend BKK to all parents who want their children to have a God-based and God-focused foundation in early childhood education. As BKK continues to upgrade and reinvent herself, the love of Christ remains constant and faithful.

Deborah, Bee Poh, Elder Mong Hua, Dorea and David

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GROWING LITTLE CHILDREN, GOD'S WAY Many of us know Miss Irene Wee as the efficient and capable principal who has been at BKK's helm for the past 16 years. Here, Miss Wee gives us a peek into her childhood and life. We also get to know what makes this exceptional educator tick. Ultimately, Miss Wee gives all credit and glory to God for her career, vocation and ministry - educating and nurturing our little ones.

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I was educated in a mission school and I vividly remember my Primary One teacher. On numerous occasions, she would pull my ears real hard for not having learnt my spelling! I did not dare to complain to my mother but suffered in silence, lest I got punished further for not putting sufficient effort into my studies. In spite of the bad experiences I encountered during my school days, they did not dampen my ambition to become a teacher when I grew up.

Instead, we were asked to take up the Basic Kindergarten Teaching Course (conducted by the Adult Education Board of the Ministry of Education (MOE)), which I did in 1972. In 1976, I applied for a job in BKK and was accepted as a nursery teacher to teach 18 children in Red Rose class.

In my early days as a teacher, I had to make use of whatever limited teaching and learning resources I could get hold of. We did not have the luxury of having as many materials as we do now. I borrowed teachers' resource books from the National Library and pored over them. Using recycled materials to make teaching aids and exercising my imagination, I tried to make the lessons interesting and engaging for my children

Often, after lessons, I would join my kampong friends to play five stones, hop-scotch, and "kuti­ kuti" 1â&#x20AC;˘ We would also pick up pieces of broken coloured glass, put them into a matchbox and then prick a hole at one end of the matchbox to make a kaleidoscope (we were a very creative and inventive bunch!). I looked forward to the school holidays when I would spend a few days staying with my cousins. We would play "masak-masak" 2 (using sand, water, leaves and twigs) under a huge frangipani tree in their garden at Bournemouth Road and dinner would be a treat at the Chinese Swimming Club.

1. Editor's note: "Kuti kuti" is a traditional children's game in which two opposing players take turns to deftly flip colourful tokens on top of those of their opponent. If a player's token lands on top of an opponent's token, the player then claims the opponent's token as his own.

2. Editor's note: "Masak masak" was, and still is, a popular role playing game where little girls would pretend to cook and serve up their best dishes using an assortment of materials. A little girl's imagination is the limit!

My career as a teacher began in a special needs school from 1968 to 1972. During those days, there was no formal training for such teachers.

22

(L-R) Mrs Linda Pereira, former President Mr SR Nathan, Miss Irene Wee and Mrs Soh Fee Chin

and dramatic play) and provided a variety of materials and equipment for children to explore and learn with.

and to create an environment that was conducive for meaningful learning experiences to take place.

Dr Christine Chen (a former student of BKK ) was my practicum supervisor for my Diploma Course and she commented in my practicum file, "You have so much to offer although your furnishings are old 3â&#x20AC;˘ Your classroom has a lot to offer to the children. Keep up your good work." She even recommended a course mate who taught in a nearby kindergarten to visit my class.

To meet the requirements of MOE and parental expectations, our teachers were encouraged to constantly upgrade their skills.

We have a tiered approach in enabling staff to acquire professional certification. We came up with a Professional Development Plan. We agreed to clock in 60/70 hours respectively, attending workshops, seminars and conferences that are aligned to the knowledge domains in the Refreshed Kindergarten Curriculum Framework.

The Lord has indeed blessed me with much favour in my teaching career and studies. I was appointed supervisor of Play Centre in the third session when the late Ms Tan Suan Lui (my role model) retired as BKK's principal in 1977. In 1980, a group of 14 K2 children in my Green Grapes class was selected by the Singapore Broadcasting Corporation (SBC) to perform the Mexican Dance on their Special Children's Day programme. In 1985 I was promoted to be vice principal of BKK.

In addition to formal training, we were determined to share, during contact time and staff meetings, good practices observed from the events we attended with our fellow teachers.

I also conducted classroom observations and gave written feedback on each teacher's teaching strategies and suggested areas of improvement where appropriate. My teachers and I reviewed and improved the health and safety measures for the children under our care. We started to provide a well-balanced diet for the children during snack time.

When I took over as principal of BKK on 15 March 1998, the teachers and I continued to work hard to ensure that the kindergarten's programme and curriculum were developmentally appropriate, integrated and holistic. Together, we brainstormed and set learning objectives for the respective learning areas (e.g., language, numeracy

3. That was before we renovated our classrooms in 1996.

23

I continued to be motivated and challenged to make things better and to make things happen.

Between 2000-2010, four new classes in the first session and three in the second session were added to cope with the increasing demand for places at BKK. In 2002, I initiated the opening of pre-nursery classes and recruited new staff. The staff strength grew from 19 in 2000 to 34 in 2014.

2012. The Lord has provided me with a team of dedicated and supportive board members, teachers and staff without whom I would not have been able to initiate and carry out the projects for BKK to this level of success and achievement. I am grateful for their contributions and hard work.

Indeed we praise the Lord for establishing the work of our hands at BKK and we pay tribute to the pioneer staff who laid a good foundation for us to build on. We look to Him for the present and the future and for His provision of committed Christian teachers. Together, we will endeavour to design quality learning experiences to help our children engage in purposeful learning and holistic development. Our challenge is to keep abreast of new educational trends and pedagogies and continue in reflective practice, actively seeking opportunities for professional growth and progress without losing focus on God and helping our children grow in maturity and wisdom in Him.

BKK constantly strives to put into practice programmes to help our children acquire the knowledge, skills and experiences which will be beneficial for their future. We have been blessed by the Lord in achieving the Good Practice Award from 2009 to 2013. We also won two MOE Outstanding Innovation Awards for our projects in 2009 and 2011. In 2009, the judges commented, "The strength of the project was how the principal sustained and extended the level of innovation in the Kindergarten and rallied the teachers in the journey. The project stood out as a school-wide improvement culture." This would not have been possible without God's blessings and my team of wonderful teachers and staff.

Although the professional achievements are heartening, the personal experiences I have had and the emotional connections I have made are priceless. I have been deeply touched by the warm greetings of former BKK students when they visited their alma mater to register their own children. I was so encouraged to hear from a former student who walked into the office one day and told me that he learnt about Jesus Christ from a Bible story book placed in the reading corner of his classroom and that he had accepted the Lord as his personal Saviour when he was a young adult. Praise the Lord!

Currently, we are working on the Motor Skills project for 2014. BKK has also been chosen by MOE to be in the focus group to give feedback and suggestions when MOE decided to develop the Educators' Guide for all preschools. We also participated in MOE Excel Fests in 2010 and

Daily, it brightens my day to be greeted by cheerful and adorable children and their parents.

With God by my side, I look forward to each school day, meeting the challenges each day may bring. In my journey at BKK, the Lord has been my encouragement and guiding light. I believe I am accountable to Him for all the time, resources and gifts He has given to me. He will judge me for all that I do and His approval will be what really matters at the end of the day. Till then, I remain devoted, diligent and dependent on Him in my ministry at BKK. All Glory be to God!

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BKK MILESTONES

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0-----------0--------------0------1953

1955

1977

Bethesda (Katong)

Due to increased

Ms Tan Suan Lui retired

Church started BKK as

enrollment, new

as principal of BKK.

an outreach at 21 Jalan

premises were re9uired.

Pipit with 20 children.

BKK moved to its

The first principal was the

current premises at

late Ms Tan Suan Lui.

2 La Salle Street.

0-----------0--------------0------2009-2013

2002

1998

BKK achieved the MOE

BKK adds pre­

Miss Irene Wee

Good Practice Award.

nursery classes.

appointed as principal of BKK.

2009 and 2011 BKK achieved the MOE Outstanding Innovation Award.

25

-------0.----------.....0-----------0 1978

1983

1984

Mrs Yvonne Yeo appointed as principal of BKK.

A new wing was added to the ground floor of the BKK building to cope with increased enrollment.

Mrs Agnes Lee appointed as principal of BKK.

1997

1996

1985

Upgrading of BKK premises - improved classroom and outdoor facilities, additional music cum assembly rooms and play areas.

Bethesda (Frankel Estate) Church took over the administration and running of BKK.

Miss Irene Wee appointed as vice­ principal of BKK.

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DOWN MEMORY LANE BKK caught up with some former students and asked them to recall their favourite memories of their time as kindergarteners.

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"We all know the early years are critical in a child's development. BKK has given me a good start in my early education years. I look forward to 2015 when all my three children will be there! I'm certain that they will receive the same all-rounded education, with emphasis on work, play and the knowledge of God, as I had." - Adeline Sim, 30s

At graduation

Adeline as she is now

"I see my alma mater daily as I send my children to school, and I thank God for BKK. Miss Wee was my teacher in K1 (1982) and I remember the unfailing kindness of all the staff to a bewildered and overwhelmed little boy - me."

- Dr Goh Han Meng, 37

Goh Han Meng in K2.

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"BKK deposited more than just music and stories in me. remember really enjoying the two hours of playtime daily - playing with plasticine, painting and drawing dinosaurs and attempting to hang upside down (horrors!) at the jungle gym (it's still there!) at the playground.

I believe BKK left such a mark on me that it was easy for me to follow my brother to BFEC as a teenager in the mid 70s when our

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Jimmy at his graduation in 1969.

Jimmy as he is now.

family moved to Marine Parade Estate. Who would have thought that I would not only be in this church but now work full-time

"My parents enrolled me in BKK in 1982. School was fun and Ms Ng Lay Kuan was my kindergarten teacher. Now, my children are in BKK and Ms Ng Lay Kuan was my

alongside Miss Irene Wee in the church and kindergarten office!" Jimmy Tan, 51

eldest son's teacher!" - Chin Sien Moon, 37

Sien Moon, on the left, in 1982 taking the school bus

Nicholas Lau, his son, is in K1 now.

"BKK was great fun. The rabbit dance, water games, and lessons fed my curiosity and fostered my love for learning." - Dr Lau Tzun Hon, 30s

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"Fond memories I have of BKK include playing "masak-masak" in the playground which had a wooden house. I also loved birthday parties in class, whether my own or my classmates', as it was such a treat for all. I send my son, Ashley, to BKK even though we stay in Jurong West because I believe that the beginning of a child's school life is a crucial experience. BKK has very experienced teachers, most of whom have been there since I was in school. I want my son to be able to enjoy his early school days, and be allowed to grow and develop at his own pace without too much pressure. BKK does just that which makes it worthwhile for me to drive 40 minutes daily to get him to school."

- Shazeen Hatim Tyebally, 37

Shazeen in her graduation gown

Naazreen when she was in BKK

"I recall crying and not wanting to go to school on my first few days at BKK, but I was always comforted

by Miss Irene Wee's gentle and assuring voice. Miss Wee has always been very caring and concerned over the children's progress. She always ensured that they adapted to the school environment comfortably.

When I registered my daughter at BKK, I had no doubt that she will be in good hands. I am grateful that all the teachers and assistants display a similar care and concern which is so important for the first few years of a child's education.

Thank you, BKK, for the wonderful memories!"

- Naazreen Tyebally, 40s

With her daughter, Nyla and nephew, Ashley

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Pearl's daughters: Emma Sin (Kl)on the left and Beatrice Sin (K2) on the right

"One of my fondest memories of BKK is the playground. 'm sure it is the same for my children who are currently studying there. Another memor:x that stuck with me was when I walked past a class that was serving porridge for snack time. It was the exact same smell that I remembered as a student in BKK. I'm sure it tastes the same too!

Food and playground aside, I am very thankful that my children are surrounded by teachers who pray for them and guide them along patiently in their first few years of education. I am very thankful (and possibly even proud) that my children are studying here because this is a legacy that I am able to give them."

- Pearl Chan, 30s

"I have very fond memories of BKK, from the very patient and loving teachers (who always had to console the crying me) to my favourite meal of porridge which I could wolf down five bowls at one go!

I am happy that my children have the chance to experience the same things (e.g., concerts, dancing, lots of Christian songs) that made my time in BKK most memorable! It feels special that we share the same bond through the school." - Wendy Goh, 30s

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Boon Ping's 3 children(from left) Victoria(Kl), David (Pre-nursery) and Derek(K2)

"I was a pupil at BKK from 1979 to 1980. The most indelible memory was putting on make-up for my graduation concert! That, and the sandy playground with the monkey bars, has stayed deep in my consciousness." - Dr Chee Boon Ping, 40s

Boon Ping at his graduation

Boon Ping as he is now

"I remember Milo and chicken porridge for tea break. Like all kids, the playground was perhaps the ___,_ best attraction for me. When I stepped into BKK on my son, Luca's first day I was surprised that the----.: playground I played in remained unchanged.

I believe that early education shapes character and thus, I chose to have Luca placed in BKK as I believe BKK helped provide the foundation to character ___, building in me and I have turned out well enough in my older years. " - Mark Chong, 30s

-his wife and son, Luca(N

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---------

-

ďż˝

"I remember so much about BKK but my best memories were the daily story-telling sessions by Miss Wee and how loving and kind she was to us in class. She is now my children's principal - what a great honour!" - Lim Woon Chi, Janis, 33

Janis and her two boys, Jeremiah (K2) and Josiah (Pre-Nursery)

----

--

Kenneth with his friends when he was at BKK in the 80s

"Faded memories of assembling in the chapel back in 1980 are refreshed every time I send my children off to school at BKK. I am glad that 34 years on, the dedication of her teachers and staff remains unchanged.

To the teachers and staff of BKK, past and present, a big THANK YOU!" - Kenneth Christopher Bone, 30s

32

Dr Christine Chen, a former student of

BKK,

is the Founder President of the Association for Child Care Educators (ACCE) and Founder and current President of the Association for Early Childhood Educators (AECES). She has been advocating professional development and learning for educators for 20 years.

Dr Chen received her Masters in Science in Early Childhood Education from Bank Street College, New York City, after her BA in Social Work from the University of Singapore. This was followed by 30 years of advocacy work in Singapore. For all her voluntary and community services, she was awarded the Public Service Award - Pingat Bakti Masyarakat (PBM - 1994) from the President of Singapore and in 2003 she was awarded Friend of Ministry of Community Development and in 2010, Volunteer of the Year.

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we learn about our physical environment as well as be inspired by the outdoors. In technical terms, we call such a programme "Developmentally Appropriate". No textbook has ever been written about this but I believe that if the programme is developmentally appropriate, the young child will remember the kindergarten years with joy and happiness.

My kindergarten teacher's name was Ms Tan Suan Lui and I still remember Ms Tan's smile. I don't remember her ever raising her voice. She wore her hair in a neat bun and she was always so presentable and pleasing to the eye; it was as if she dressed up for her students every day. Upon reflection, Ms Tan modelled what a good early childhood teacher should be.

The activities that I still remember enjoying are singing and acting out "Polly Put the Kettle On", going outdoors, looking at the school building and sitting there drawing the building. Finally, I remember playing musical instruments and, best of all, being the conductor of that orchestra!

Today, I ask all adults responsible for the lives of young children: what memories do we want to leave our children? As teachers, parents, grandparents and caregivers of young children, we contribute to the happy memories of childhood.

Childhood is a vital phase of life. I strongly believe that when one has a happy childhood, one brings along a sense of well-being and an assurance that even though life may be hard at times, it will always turn out to be alright.

Being an early childhood teacher myself, I now realise how important the performing and visual arts are. Besides bringing music to one's life, it gives the child the opportunity for self-expression and a sense of mastery. Drawing a picture of the school is what we now call social studies in which

I thank BKK for leaving me with happy memories of my childhood. I am sure that many children who have come and gone through her doors in these 60 years have been blessed. I wish BKK many more years of endowing happiness in the lives of her young children.

33

Shanti and Prakash Tanapathy were model students when they were both in BKK in the 1970s and many years later, they registered their four children in BKK... the legacy continues.

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The Tanapathy family

"Dear, must remember to take leave for the end-of-year concert ok?"

I have been saying this to my husband, Prakash, every October since 2003. This year will mark our 12th attendance at this annual event as our fourth and youngest child graduates. It is with a lump in my throat that I realise that come next year, I will not receive the pastel-coloured beautifully illustrated concert invite that I have come to expect yearly. In its place will be a treasure trove of fond memories of this beloved institution, a place where my husband, my four children and I spent the formative years of our childhood.

he looked exactly the same as he did when he was in her class all those years ago. That moment of tender recognition encapsulates the BKK hallmark of love, care and concern, where the teachers know their charges so well that years after they graduate, the affection lives on...both in the children and their teachers.

Unquestionably, we enrolled our three younger children in BKK and they have benefitted from her tradition of nurturing the heart, mind, body and soul. Until today, Miss Wee and her teachers continue to ask after my older children who have graduated.

I asked Akshay (6 years old) what he would miss about BKK next year and he said, "I will miss play time."

The very mention of the word 'Bethesda' never fails to stir up warm fuzzy feelings of comfort and security in all our hearts. Prakash and I were in BKK in the 1970s. The kindergarten, with its sound reputation for providing children with a high quality all-rounded education, gave Prakash and I a great start to our education.

So, 23 years later, when it was time to enrol our first-born in nursery school, we had no doubt whatsoever that BKK would be his introduction to formal schooling.

What happened next is nothing short of jaw­ dropping. When we stepped into the BKK office, we met Miss Irene Wee who, incidentally, was Prakash's K2 teacher. She recognised him 1-N-S­ T-A-N-T-L-Y. She called out his name and said that 34

I asked my other children to share their thoughts about BKK and this is what they had to say:

Nirmal (15 years old) "The curriculum was very enriching. I remember planting a turnip in class and learning all about it. That made me very interested in Science."

Ishana (11 years old)

Tara (8 years old)

"I love the nice teachers and the really fun activities. And I really miss the fried rice!"

"I miss my kind teachers. I miss playing in the playground at the front of the school. I miss the enjoyable field trips. I miss the porridge. I miss doing the concert."

So it is with much love and gratitude that we wish BKK a Happy 60th Anniversary. May you grow from strength to strength as you continue to bestow knowledge, empathy and spirituality on all who walk through your doors.

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For Nicholas and Kathryn Poa, you can say that this is a love match made in

BKK. Who

would have known that two students who had such a distaste for each other in kindergarten would meet again many years later and even ended up marrying each other!

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Chinese teacher, broke the news to Nicholas that he was going to be replaced by another student.

This student was none other than Kathryn who, needless to say, memorised the script in no time. Nicholas knew this because Kathryn would rehearse her lines in front of the class everyday, blissfully unaware of Nicholas' dagger stares from outside the classroom.

We were married in July 2013 - 22 years after we first met in BKK. Back in kindergarten, if you had told us that we would end up marrying each other, Kathryn would probably cry and Nicholas would have made all sorts of retching sounds before punching you in the eye.

That was Nicholas' last (and painful) memory of The Girl Who Stole His Role.

How it began

Although we were in the same K2 class, we belonged to two different worlds. Kathryn and her friends were small, clever and prim [Nicholas: read - teacher's pets). In sharp contrast, Nicholas and his ilk were big, illiterate brutes who were frequently sent out of class for various misdemeanours. Oh, and they would also bully Kathryn and her little friends.

The reunion

For the next 15 years, we continued with our different lives. Kathryn remained clever, a model student... and small. Nicholas remained a rascal and was always plagued by his poor command of the Chinese language.

Sometimes, worlds collide and we crossed paths near the end of K2. Nicholas, because of his cute oriental look and outspoken nature, was selected to be the Mandarin-speaking emcee of BKK's graduation concert. One problem - he had never paid attention during classes, least of all the Mandarin ones. What Nicholas had in cuteness, he lacked in equal measure (and more) in his grasp of Mandarin. Nevertheless, because of his love for the limelight, he threw himself into memorising the script and astounded his family with his sudden desire for learning. Tragically, he was unable to make up for lost time. A couple of weeks before The Concert of His Lifetime, Ms Fu, his

Sometimes worlds collide more than once. We crossed paths at Durham University in 2006 and had an instant, visceral aversion towards each other the very moment our paths crossed in the college dining hall. Kathryn was a fashion disaster in a thick wool cardigan, jeans with embroidered flowers on the side and Timberland boots.

Nicholas, on the other hand, was in a tight pink T-shirt, striding confidently down the dining hall.

His shirt was loudly emblazoned with "I HATE MY CLOTHES, CAN YOU HELP ME UNDRESS?!" We were totally oblivious to our connection to each other in our "previous lives".

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Class of 1991

Despite these startling revelations, we stuck it out. After six years of courtship, we figured we could not shake the other off after all, and decided to get married on 27 July 2013.

If not for our mothers, we never would have spoken to each other. Nicholas' mother encouraged him to be nice towards Kathryn as she appeared rather friendless. Kathryn's mother had raised her well to be courteous even to people she disliked. So when Nicholas began asking Kathryn to join him for meals in the dining hall, she grudgingly accepted his invitations.

But to be serious, we have no doubt that it was God who brought us together. We could not be more different, yet God made us see something special in each other. We can't help but feel that our story is a testament to God's wondrous love, faithfulness and surprising sense of humour.

Soon after they started talking, Nicholas asked her to recommend him a church. Kathryn was surprised. Anyway, she figured that since the church she was attending was called St Nicholas' Church, it would be such poetic irony for Nicholas to attend it and to see if he would keep it up.

Nicholas managed to offend Kathryn during their first visit to church together, but that's another story for another time.

And now that we've BOTH been asked to emcee BKK's 60th anniversary, Nicholas has finally forgiven Kathryn for being The Girl Who Stole His Role. [Kathryn: as if marrying him wasn't enough?!]

Soli Deo Gloria!

As time went by, our wintery dislike for each other slowly melted into confusing curiosity, reluctant respect, and (after much prayer and struggle) eventually blossomed into love.

Whilst we both knew that we had attended BKK, we never really gave it a second thought until a couple of years later when browsing through Kathryn's childhood photos. To Nicholas' horror, he discovered that Kathryn was The Girl Who Stole His Role in The Concert. Kathryn was also aghast that Nicholas and his friends were the ones who used to traumatize her and her little friends.

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KUDOS TO THE KINDERGARTEN FROM PARENTS OF OUR CHILDREN

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The Koh family

Ian, John and Mrs De Cruz

"Starting right for our children's education was an important step for us. We enrolled our three children at BKK: Boaz, Brenan and Bethelyn.

The dedication of the principal, Miss Irene Wee, and teachers was instrumental to getting them started right. From taking the school bus on the first day of school to graduation day, each of my children has had a fulfilling preschool education, not just academically, but in character building and social development as well. BKK was a place of first friendships, a first taste of classroom exposures and stage performances which all brought positive experiences to launch their education journey. May BKK be a place of blessing to many more children."

"My husband and I chose BKK for our three boys for the Christian values that are shared and cultivated in the children. Many teachers, including the principal Miss Wee, have been there for a long time and they really have a passion to serve and love the children. From the time my first boy entered BKK in 2008, I have seen BKK implement improvements that enhance and enrich the learning experiences of the children. My youngest boy will leave BKK when he graduates this year. We are very thankful for the years my boys spent in BKK." Mrs Linzi De Cruz Mother of Ian, John and Andrew De Cruz

Brian and Shirley Koh Parents of Bethelyn, Brenan and Boaz Koh 38

Ethan and Matthew when they were in BKK

Family Photo

Hannah is in K2 now

"My family belongs to the Dawoodi Bohra Community which is a sub sect of Shia Muslims.

After moving to Singapore from Mumbai in early 2014, we searched for and found BKK for our elder girl, Hawra. We believe BKK can provide an environment that can cater to her growth in terms of the discipline, adaptation to the local customs/ languages, and create a strong foundation for her future learning."

"My husband and I have always wanted our children to go to a church-based kindergarten where the Word of God will be taught together with the curriculum. We decided on BKK as it has a sterling reputation for providing a strong education by a group of nurturing teachers.

BKK exceeded our expectations. All three of our children (Ethan, Matthew and Hannah) have been educated there. Good old-fashioned values based on the Bible are taught and the children are guided by firm and loving teachers who discipline and encourage them. We are truly grateful for BKK and the influence she has had on our children's education and lives."

Murtaza Abid Kapasi Father of Hawra

Mrs Priscilla Chang Mother of Ethan, Matthew and Hannah Chang 39

STAFF OF BETHESDA (KATONG) KINDERGARTEN

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First row from left to right: Mrs Emily Lee, Ms Doreen Loh, Mrs Linda Pereira, Ms Ng Lay Kuan, Miss Irene Wee, Ms Wong Lee Pin, Mrs Amy Lee, Mrs Soh Fee Chin, Mrs Irene Lim Second row from left to right: Ms Theng Wan Yong, Mrs Tieng Kar Ni, Mrs Annie Sim, Ms Louisa Gan, Mdm Chen Lam Foong, Mrs Eileen Thng, Ms Dorothy Lim, Mrs Gemi Quek, Mrs Judy Sim, Mrs Tay Soh Na, Ms Serena Mok, Ms Irene Tan Third row from left to right: Mrs Adeline Ngo, Mrs Mariani Loi, Ms Kathleen Lim, Ms Tang Lai Bing, Mrs Fong Kah Keok, Mrs Heng Chun, Mrs Tan Seow Kim , Mrs Marosmina Yang , Ms Khoo Bee Hwa, Mrs Linda Choo, Mdm Huang Min Fang, Mdm Zheng Xiao Mei, Ms Sharon Ang

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7 NUMBERS More than 20,450 children have attended BKK. What else do we know about BKK today?

Number of children whose parent (either one or both) was a former student in BKK

Sets of twins in BKK

Number of families with two or more children studying in BKK

Number of times the uniform design was changed 41

Number of children who take the school bus

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Number of nationalities represented in BKK

Number of children in BKK

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