Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia
“And behold, your relative Elizabeth in her old age has also conceived a son, and this is the sixth month with her who was called barren. “For nothing will be impossible with God.” And Mary said, “Behold, I am the servant of the Lord, let it be to me according to your word.” And the angel departed from her. (Luke 1: 36-38) Warm Christmas greetings! There is an intricate history behind Christmas but the fact that it comes just a week before the close of the year is a blessing. It is as if we celebrate all that the Lord has done for us throughout the year, and then we prepare our spirit to engage the world around us for another year! Though the Bible does not mention Christmas, you can find many peculiar references to “Christmases.” In the Gospel of Luke, you find a magnificent narrative! Before the birth of Christ, the angel
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August 2012 10th Edition Gabriel appeared to Mary, hailed her and troubled her heart. The angel Gabriel quoted a prophecy to a frightened woman before coming down to more earthly affairs. For instance, Elizabeth, the aged and barren kinswoman of Mary, shall conceive. And Gabriel concludes: For nothing will be impossible with God. This is quite a literary rendition of the Greek version. This verse in Greek rightly poses this: “you do know, that nothing is impossible beside God to do all that he declares” which affirms that the prophecy is all about Mary and at the same time offers her an ancient affirmative saying that brings comfort to her. For this is a situation that all Jewish children and adults are schooled in accordance with Genesis 18:13-14a: “The LORD said to Abraham: “Why did Sarah laugh, and say, ‘Shall I indeed bear a child, now that I am old?’ Is anything too marvellous for the LORD? “Mary understood that Elizabeth with child was a sign from none other than Yahweh himself who is the Lord of Israel. The angel Gabriel used the literary refrain “for nothing will be impossible with God” to affirm it. She also knew that if Elizabeth is a sign that reflects Sarah, then she is going to be a new sign. Yahweh has chosen her, and she should prepare herself for something far greater.
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As Christians, there is never a reason to stray from the paths of righteousness. The dignity of a Christian is something God is concerned about. So let this Christmas be one of deep reflection of our spirit. Throughout the Bible, we find that God chooses the lowly and the rejected for his purposes. He did not make a difference between the rich and the poor. Abraham and Sarah were wealthy nomads; but Mary and later Joseph were poor. But the lowly and rejected were the ones he chose to show the world his benevolence and purpose. The Bible does describe briefly what Sarah did for Israel through her son; but so is there precious little written about how Mary who served her son, Jesus. I believe it was the maternal bond which was the same. I also believe that is what God looked for. Not a “super mom” or any special claim to power and wealth. By being herself, Mary who served the Lord of Israel, for she did know, that nothing is impossible beside “God to do all that he declares.” This year has been a troublesome one, full of troubling news. Some news was really good such as the peaceful rallies and greater commitment to good law. On the other hand, some news we hear are so wicked, it hurts. It is just not our social life that has been shaken but it has also affected all of us in a personal way. I know this because it is reflected in our own congregational ministries and diaconal services. We have more money but with less investment power in ministries and social services. Many of us are upset by the overall reduction in our economic status. While the rich are pondering how to make more money, they are often careless of their commitment to the poor. Let us be reminded that this is not the Christian way. As children of God, we are committed to certain ethics that should motivate us to be prudent and at the same time be truthful to our Lord. For wealth not blessed
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by God is a burden! The poor, on the other hand, should not take hardship to allow themselves to be discouraged. As Christians, there is never a reason to stray from the paths of righteousness. The dignity of a Christian is something God is concerned about. So let this Christmas be one of deep reflection of our spirit. It is relatively acceptable to celebrate Christmas with less pomp. It should be fairly sensible to buy less this year. But let us not reduce our commitment to make some room for the less fortunate. Especially for those whose dignity is on the “chopping block,” ready to be chopped into pieces! In particular, those who are suffering bodily but do not have access to medical care; those who need clothes but have no money to spare for new ones; those who need food but reduced to eating less; those who are short-changing the proper diets for their children; and for those who are too sick (in mind and body) to find employment. I know we cannot save the world; as a result, I encourage all of you to look kindly into the welfare of God’s own people who are suffering. When you do this, you are on God’s side, there will be blessings! With God by your side, nothing is impossible. And may your year ahead be a closer walk with Jesus our Lord. Wishing all members and well-wishers of the ELCM, A JOYFUL CHRISTMAS AND A BLESSED NEW YEAR!
Rt Rev Dr Solomon Rajah Bishop Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia December 2015
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nkhopapy; $wg;gLtJ: “flTs; ehd; nra;Ntd; vd;W nrhy;Yfpw vijak; nra;a Kbahjtuy;y vd;gJ cdf;Fj; njupAkh?” ,J> Kjypy; me;j NjtJ}d;; vLj;Jiuj;j jPuf ; f ; juprdk; kupahisg; gw;wpaNj vd;gij cWjpg;gLj;JtNjhL mtSf;F MWjiyAk; mspg;gjhf mike;jpUf;fpwJ. Vnddpy; ,t;tpj epiyikiag; gw;wpa Nghjid iaNa vy;yh A+j gps;isfSk; ngupatu;fSk; ngw;wpUe;jdu;. Fwpg;ghf Mjpahfkk; 18:13-14ay; ehk; fhz;gJ: “mg;nghOJ fh;jj ; h; Mgpufhik Nehf;fp: rhuhs; eifj;J> ehd; fpotpahapUf;fg; gpsi ; sngWtJ nka;Nah vd;W nrhy;thNdd;? fh;jj ; uhy; Mfhj fhhpak; cz;Nlh?” vyprngj; fu;gg ; khf ,Uf;fpwhs; vd;W me;j J}jd; $wpaJ> ,];uNtyupd; Mz;ltuhfpa ‘ahFNt’ vd;gtNu nfhLf;Fk; Xu; milahskhFk; vd;gij kupahs; Gupe;Jf; nfhz;lhs;. fhgpupNay; J}jd;> “flTshy; Kbahj fhupak; xd;Wk; ,y;iy” vd;W $wpa ,e;j ,ay;ghd thu;ji ; jfspdhy; mij cWjpg;gLj;jpdhu;. vyprngj;jpd; epiy rhuhspd; epiyikia gpujp gypf F ; k; Xu; milahskhdhy;> jhDk; xU Gjpa milahskhfg; Nghfpwhs; vd;gij kupahs; mwpe;J nfhz;lhs;. ‘ahFNt’ jd;id njupe;J nfhz;lhu;> MfNt ,d;Dk; Nkyhd fhupaj;Jf;Ff; jd;id Maj;jg;gLj;j Ntz;Lk; vd;gijAk; mts; Vw;Wf; nfhz;lhs;.
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Ntjhfkk; KOtjpYk; ehk; fhZk; rj;jpak;:; “jho;ikahdtw;iwAk;> js;sp itf;fg;gl;lijAk; flTs; jkJ fhupaj;ij epiwNtw;Wk;gb njupeJ ; nfhs;fpwhu;” vd;gNj. mtUf;F gzf;fhuu;> vio vd;w NtWghL ,y;iy. MgpufhKk; rhuhSk; miye;J jpupe;j nry;te;ju;fs;. Mdhy; kupahSk;> NahNrg;Gk; ViofNs. Mdhy; mg;gbg;gl;ltu;fisNa flTs; jkJ ,uf;fj;ijAk; Nehf;fj;ijAk; cyfj; Jf;F ntspg;gLj;j njupe;njLj;jhu;. rhuhs; jd; kfdpd; %yk; ,];uNtYf;fhf vd;d nra;jhs; vd;gij Ntjfkk; RUf;fkhf $WfpwJ.
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ehk; cyfj;ij fhg;ghw;w KbahJ vd;gJ vdf;Fj; njupAk;. MfNt tpnr\khf Jd;g ; g;gLk; ekJ nrhe;j flTspd; gps;isfSila eyid ftdpf;Fk;gb ehd; cq;fis Cf;Ftpf;fpNwd;. ,ij ePqf ; s; nra;Ak;NghJ ePqf ; s; flTspd; gf;fkhf ,Ug;guP f ; s;. mtUila MrPut ; hjk; cq;fNshL ,Uf;Fk;. flTs; cq;fs; gf;fk; ,Uf;Fk;NghJ “,ayhyJ xd;Wk; ,y;iy.” tUfpw Mz;L ePqf ; s; Mz;ltuhfpa ,NaRTld; neUq;fp elf;Fk; Mz;lhf ,Uf;fl;Lk;. ekJ jpUr;rigapd; vy;yh cWg;gpdUf;Fk;> k.R.Y. jpUr;rigapd; eyid tpUk;Gk; ahtUf;Fk; vdJ ‘Mde;jkhd fpwp]k ; ];’ kw;Wk; ‘MrPut ; hjkhd Gj;jhz;L’ tho;jJ ; f;fs;.
khkiwjpU mwptu; rhyNkhd; uh[h Nguhau; kNyrpah RtpNr\ Yj;jud; jpUr;rig brk;gu; 2015
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Editor-in-Chief
Rt. Rev. Dr. Solomon Rajah Bishop, ELCM
Editor Rev. Albert P. Abishegam Assistant Editor Rev. Eliezer Peter Sub-Assistant Editor Rev. K. Jegadass Translators & Proof-Readers Rev. Moses Muthusamy Mrs. Cecilia Gabrial
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The Lutheran Herald Says....
Nothing Is Impossible With God It is once again that time of the year when members of the ELCM, together with Christians throughout Malaysia and the world around, will be celebrating that most wondrous and significant of moments, when our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ was born of the virgin Mary, as foretold by the prophets of old. Unfortunately, it is also a time of great sadness for many people, those who are poor, who are neglected, who are sick or who have no hope or joy in their lives. But take heart, and read what happens with Mary in Luke 1. This was the time that the angel Gabriel appeared to her, before she was married to Joseph, and told her she was blessed amongst women, and would bear a child that would be the saviour of the human race, and he would be called Jesus. You can well imagine Mary’s amazement and dismay. She was betrothed to Joseph, yes, but she was still a virgin! “How can this be, I am yet a virgin”, she asked of Gabriel. The angel reassured her saying that the Holy Spirit would be with her and that she would bear the child. Then, he tells her, “Nothing is impossible with God.” Not through God, or by God, but WITH God. Hence, the theme for this Christmas 2015 edition of the Lutheran Herald... NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE WITH GOD. And through this Christmas 2015 editorial, the Lutheran Herald encourages all our respected readers to BELIEVE FOR THE UNBELIEVABLE AND TRUST GOD FOR WHAT YOU THOUGHT IMPOSSIBLE. Believe that the GOD OF THE IMPOSSIBLE is walking with you, working in you and witnessing through you. Let us, this Christmas season, reflect on our God as the God of the impossible. Jesus said in Luke 18:27, “The things which are impossible with men are possible with God.” Did he just say, “God can do the impossible?” That’s exactly what he said. We cannot but God can. God is the same yesterday, today and forever. He created life from a desolate planet…. Today, he creates life from death. At the wave of Moses’ hands, he parted the Red Sea and produced dry land…. Today as we lift our hands in worship, he opens our hearts and produces his peace that surpasses our understanding. He raised an army from a valley of dry bones…. Today, he breathes life into our souls and revives our spirits by his Holy Spirit. He destroyed Satan’s greatest weapon, death, by the resurrection of His Son. Today he uses death to bring about a resurrection and eternal life. If he can do all the above things, imagine what he can do with a life that trusts him completely and is wholly faithful. He is still taking impossible situations and turning them into possibilities. Let us this Christmas season believe God for the unbelieveable. The Lutheran Herald Editorial Committee takes this opportunity to wish all our readers A MEANINGFUL CHRISTMAS AND A BLESSED NEW YEAR! God Bless you all. REV. ALBERT P. ABISHEGAM Editor December 2015 Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020
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Yj;jud; JhJtd; $WfpwJ ...
flTshy; $lhjJ vJTk; ,y;iy kNyrpah RtpNr\ Yj;jud; jpUr;rig cWg;gpdu;fSk;> ,d;Dk; kNyrpahtpYk; kw;Wk; cyfk; KOtjpYk; cs;s fpwp];jtu;fSk; xd;W Nru;e;J jPu;f;fjuprpfs; Kd; mwptpj;jg;gbNa fd;dpkupahsplj;jpypUe;J gpwe;j ekJ Mz;ltuhfpa ,NaR fpwp];Jtpd; gpwe;j ehisf; nfhz;lhlg; Nghfpd;w fhyj;Jf;F kPz;Lk; ehk; te;jpUf;fpNwhk;. Ju;mjp\;ltrkhf> Vo;ikapy; ,Ug;Nghu;> Gwf;fzpf;fg;gl;ltu;fs;> tpahjpg; gl;ltu;fs; my;yJ jq;fs; tho;f;ifapy; ek;gpf;ifAk; re;Njh\ Kk; ,y;yhjtu;fSf;F ,J mjpf Jf;fKs;s fhykhf ,Uf;fpwJ. Mdhy; jpld; nfhz;L Y}f;f RtpNr\ j;jpd; Kjy; mjpfhuj;jpy; kupahSf;F vd;d Neupl;lJ vd;gijg; gbAq;fs;.
kupahs; NahNrg;ig jpUkzk; nra;tjw;F Kd; ele;j rk;gtk; ,J: fhgpupNay; J}jd; kupahsplk; te;J> mts; ];jpuPfSf;Fs;Ns MrPu;tjpf;fg;gl;lts; vd;Wk;> mts; xU Fkhuid ngWths; mtNu kDFyj;jpd; ,ul;rfuha; ,Ug;ghu;> mtu; ,NaR vd miof;fg;Lthu; vd;Wk; $wpdhu;. ePq;fs; kupahspd; kiyg;igAk; fyf;fj;ijAk; rw;W fw;gid nra;J ghUq;fs;. Mk! mts; NahNrg;Gf;F epakpf;fg;gl;bUe;jhs;> Mdhy; mts; ,d;Dk; Xu; fd;dpifaha; ,Ue;jhs;. mts; fhgpupNay; NjtJ}jidg; ghu;j;J> “,J vg;gb ahFk; GU\id mwpNaNd>” vd;W Nfl;lhs;. me;j J} jd; mtSf;F ijupa%l;b> gupRj;j Mtp mtSld; ,Ug;ghu; MfNt mts; xU Fkhuidg; ngWths; vd;W $wpdhu;. gpd;du; me;j J}jd; $wpaJ: “flTshy; $lhj fhupak; xd;Wkpy;iy.” ‘flTs; %yk;’ my;yJ ‘flTSld;’ my;y Mdhy; ‘flTshy;’ vy;yhk; $Lk;. MfNt ,e;j 2015k; Mz;bd; fpwp];k]; rkak; ntsptUk; Yj;jud; J}Jtdpd; nra;jpg; nghUs;: ‘flTshy; $lhjJ vJTkpy;iy.”
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,jd; %yk; Yj;jud; J}Jtd; vy;yh thrfu;fisAk;> “ek;g Kbahjtw;iw ek;Gk;gbAk;> cq;fshy; KbahJ vd;W epidf;Fk; fhupaj;Jf;F flTis ek;Gk;gbAk; cw;rhfg; gLj;JfpwJ. elf;f Kbahjij elf;f itf;Fk; flTs; cq;fNshL ele;J nry;fpwhu;> cq;fSf;Fs; Ntiy nra;fpwhu;> cq;fs; %yk; rhl;r;rp $Wfpwhu;. ,e;j fpwp];k]; fhyj;jpy;> ekJ flTs; elf;f Kbahjij elj;Jgtu; vd;w epiyapy; rw;W rpe;jid nra;Nthk;. Y}f;fh 18:27y; ,NaR nrhy;fpwJ: “kD\ uhy; $lhjitfs; flTshy; $Lk;.” “nra;a KbahJ vd;gij flTs; nra;a KbAk;” vd;W mtu; nrhd;dhuh? Mk; mg;gbj;jhd; mtu; nrhd;dhu;. ekf;F KbahJ> mdhy; flTSf;F KbAk;. New;Wk;> ,d;Wk;> vd;Wk; flTs; khwhjtuha; ,Uf;fpwhu;. xd;Wk; ,y;yhky; ,Ue;j cyfpy; mtu; capiug; gilj;jhu;. ,d;W mtu; kuzj;jpypUe;J [Ptidg; gilf;fpwhu;. NkhNr jdJ iffis mirj;jjpd; %yk; mtu; fliy ,uz;lhf gpupar; nra;J fha;e;j G+kpia cz;L gz;zpdhu;. ,d;W ehk; ekJ fuq;fis cau;j;jp Muhjpf;Fk;NghJ mtu; ekJ ,Ujaq;fisj; jpwe;J mjpy; ehk; Gupe;Jnfhs; Kbahj rkhjhdj;ij cUthf;Ffpwhu;. gs;sj;jhf;fpy; ,Ue;j cyu;e;j vYk;Gfis Xu; Nridahf vOg;jpdhu;. ,d;W mtu; ekJ Mj;JkhTf;F mtUila [Pt Rthrj;ijf; nfhLj;J gupRj;j Mtpapd; %yk; ekJ Mtpia GJg;gpf;fpwhu;. jkJ Fkhudpd; capu;j;njOjypd; %yk; mtu; rhj;jhdpd; ngupa MAjkhfpa kuzj;ij mopj;jhu;. ,d;W mtu; kuzj;ij gad;gLj;jp capu;j;njOjiyAk; epj;jp [PtidAk; nfhz;LtUfpwhu;. NkNy Fwpg;gplg;gl;l me;j fhupaq;fs; ahtw;iwAk; mtu; nra;a KbAkhdhy;> mtu; Nky; KO ek;gpf;if itj;J mjpy; KOtJkhf cz;ikAs;stu;fshf ,Ug;gtu;fSf;F mtu; vd;d nra;a KbAk; vd;gij ePq;fs; rw;W rpe;jpj;Jg; ghUq;fs;. ,d;Dk; mtu; KbahJ vd epidf;Fk; fhupaq;fis vLj;Jf;nfhz;L mij KbAk; vd;w epiyf;F khw;Wfpwhu;. ,e;j fpwp];k]; fhyj;jpy;> ek;g Kbahjtw;wpf;fhf flTs; Nky; ek;gpf;if itg;Nghk;. ,j;jUdj;jpy; Yj;jud; J}Jtdpd; gjpg;ghNyhridf; FO thrfu; midtUf;Fk; jdJ rpwg;ghd fpwp];k]; kw;Wk; MrPu;thjk; kpFe;j Gj;jhz;L tho;j;Jf;fis njuptpf;fpwJ. gjpg;ghrpupau; mUs;jpU My;gu;l; gp. mgpN\fk; brk;gu; 2015
Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020
“For With God Nothing Shall Be Impossible” Luke 1:37 At Christmas time we are perhaps more conscious than at any other time of the year on how the world shapes us, and we are also perhaps longing more than at any other time of the year to be shaped by Christ and His Word and Spirit than by the world. But in our Christian life, we face many hurdles and obstacles and things may seem impossible to overcome. But with God nothing is impossible and if we are trying to understand this with our heads, we are never going to understand it. The Christian life can be summarised in Mary’s response to Gabriel. It is a God-centered believing, thinking and living that she manifests and a self-renouncing service that she evidences. This, dear church, is at the very heart of a believing response to the gospel. When we believe the gospel, our whole lives are oriented around Jesus and His Word and we begin to serve others in self-renouncing love and we find that it is not burdensome. This was the time that the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, before she was married to Joseph and told her that she was blessed amongst women and would bear a child who would be the saviour of the human race and He would be called Jesus. We can well imagine Mary’s amazement and consternation as she was a virgin. “How can this be, since I do not know a man?” The angel assured her saying that the Holy Spirit would be with her and that she would bear the child. Then, he tells her “Nothing is impossible with God.” Have faith God says and NOTHING IS IMPOSSIBLE in our lives. Certainly, it takes great faith to believe that our greatest problems will be overcome. Just imagine what difficulty Mary would have had believing that, as a virgin, she would give birth to a Son who would be God’s Son. What would everyone say? What would Joseph say? So, what did she do? She simply said, “Behold the maidservant of the Lord! Let it be to me according to your word.” What FAITH! What BELIEF! Let us all have this faith and this belief this Christmas that with God, nothing is impossible and nothing will be impossible whether it is within our family or in our congregation or in our business or workplace or in our studies or in anything and that all our problems will be resolved. Wishing all of you a Blessed Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year. Silas M. Das Diocesan Secretary December 2015
Diocesan Treasurer Greetings to you in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ! My Christmas message to you is plain and simple. It is about time that we should ask what we can do for the Church. I urge all members to continue giving to the Church and support God’s ministry. The Bible says “Each man should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver. And God is able to make all grace abound in every good work” (2 Corinthians 9: 7-8). For nothing will be impossible with God. God will surely bless you and your family in the New Year when you give generously to the Church. My family and I wish all Lutheran Herald readers a blessed Christmas and a prosperous New Year. Selvaraj Anugraham Diocesan Treasurer December 2015 Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020
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52nd DIOCESAN ASSEMBLY 2015 11th – 12th September 2015 Sutera Hotel, Seremban, Negeri Sembilan
1. INTRODUCTION (1) Dear Delegates and fellow workers. Warm greetings in the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ. We are assembled here today once again to consider prayerfully the affairs of ELCM and to make wise and prudent decisions for the sake of the future of our Church. This Assembly is also where we set the tone for the coming years of our Diocese. I welcome all of you in the name of the Father, of the Son and of the Holy Spirit. 2. GENERAL REFLECTION (2) Firstly, let me clarify where we are socio-economically. Culturally, we are basically a Tamil speaking Church. However, we also enjoy “diversity” where four of our congregations speak English as their medium of faith. As a result, we are largely an Indian Church but fast becoming an urban modern Malaysian community. We also enjoy the company of various ethnic groups worshipping with us. They are the Batak Lutheran Indonesians, Ghana Lutherans, the Punjabis, Malayalees, Telugus, and various other groups of South Asians. Let us not leave out the sprinkling of Chinese believers in our midst. This should dismiss those who accuse ELCM is an ethno-centric Church! To exclude others on the basis of ethnicity is wrong indeed, un-Christian and that is not what we are as Lutherans! (3) Secondly, I want to let you know that many of our members are deeply influenced by the quiet work of non-Lutheran churches who are offering “misleading and confusing” theological education. Let me remind you that we are Lutherans! Because we are Lutherans we acknowledge the gifts of the Holy Spirit and the authority that comes from the Cross but the centrality of our doctrine is salvation on the Cross, faith and God’s will for all people. The gifts of the Holy Spirit are not to be made our central focus or preoccupation. The gifts are to be used for God’s service and not for self-
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validation. It is understood that self-validation as an individual saved and chosen by God is a task already accomplished by Christ. Let me give you an example: I was once shocked to hear a church member insist that his pastor must pray loudly and shout against the devil to be effective. These sorts of teachings that make acts of piety the focus of living is wrong! We need rules to live by, like praying daily and saying grace before meals are good. But beyond a certain limits, rules become blind rituals like praying 4 hours daily is more effective than praying three and half hours! Praying holding hands sends a more powerful message to the prayer department in heaven than if you pray quietly in your room. Beware of such ritualism! (4) We also have a strain of teaching brought over from America especially that we call 20th century evangelicals. They also claim themselves to be “evangelicals.” They claim that life should conform to the Bible and what annoys me is that they do so, somewhat selectively! There is no room for cultural diversity and their prescribed cultural norm is a version of middle-class white American variety. For example, King James Version is the only canon – all others versions are not of God; and by the way, their God speaks only English; and you probably have to wear a tie or cover your head to church as a sign of compulsory spiritual modesty! (5) Let me affirm today that the centrality of our faith is the knowledge of Christ dying on the Cross for our salvation, and that is the purpose of the Bible. Gifts are to be used for the service of the poor and sick in order to meet their needs and not to earn spiritual points or earn a place in heaven in order to meet our spiritual insecurity. All prayers are heard, even that of a small child. The Bible is perfect only in the sense that it is inspired by God and was purposed by our God as a revelation for our salvation. It is immaterial what version of the Bible one uses; sometimes it is always imperfectly understood, or even translated. We can only read and understand its purpose prayerfully, humbly in ever deepening faith. We should never fear saying “This aspect of our Scripture, I do not understand.” Our doctrines are also embedded in our Liturgy, and the reading of the Bible is made a Christian habit in our Lectionary. As Lutherans, we have our own culture of worship, diakonia service and living confidently in the world. So being a Lutheran does not mean you have to run after this “powerful speaker” or that “anointed preacher.” It is not wrong to hear them speak the Word of God but we need to examine them carefully. An itinerant preacher owes a duty of doctrinal correctness more than a resident pastor!
Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020
3. STRENGTHENING AND EXPANDING (6) Our objectives that were spelt six years ago remain unchanged STRENGTHENING and EXPANDING. I would like to review our progress so that we can be informed and encouraged to move on boldly. (7) Most of you are now familiar with our ELCM’s theme STRENGTHENING and EXPANDING. Some of you have wondered why the same every year. This theme is my guiding ethos of my office as Bishop. I do not want to appraise what people do in other denominations but this is our theme that I have set. (8) In STRENGTHENING we spelt out the need for 1. Nurturing Spiritual Growth by understanding God’s Love for us; 2. Building self-reliant projects as a way to become an integral part of the Local Community in which we subsists; 3. Training our Clergy and Laity slowly so that they will provide the skills and leadership for our Future Generation; 4. Building our ties with Church organizations, migrant community, and independent congregations we can reach out to; and 5. Building our capacity for growth and Mission work. (9) I also set out five areas that we should pay serious attention to and monitor closely for the EXPANSION of the Church. They are namely, 1. Building new membership; 2. Targeting and Opening New Areas of Ministry; 3. Streamlining and Coordinating our existing Auxiliary Activities; 4. Increasing our Diakonia Ministry; and 5. Improving our Revenue Sources at Local and Diocesan levels. (10) I have explained at great length what these objectives imply to both pastors and lay people. After serving for six years now, I have become more conscious that ELCM ought to be urgently concerned with these three areas, namely, finance, Church growth, and theological education and training. Having said that, let us now turn our focus on these three areas that needs our attention. 4. FAITHFULNESS AND FINANCE (11) The value of the ministry of ELCM is seen in the good results it has produced. There is a determined group of faithful Lutherans in our leadership, both at congregational and diocesan level, who are committed to Church and family. They are the indispensable part of our Lutheran congregations in Malaysia. They maintain the annual cycle of church rites and attend to all the Lutheran customs, keep the priority of the Lutheran liturgy, use of language and so forth. They are also a vital factor in our Church leadership. Without their commitment in the face of adversity, the ELCM would have long ago disappeared. This is ELCM and we must be thankful for this tradition and the tradition-keepers! We must build our ELCM with the people who laid this foundation in mind. (12) On the other hand, we have a problem of each congregation being so focused in their own problems, and their petty politics (which are inevitably among relatives or close friends) they fail to see the larger picture. While the Lutherans of the better-off congregations inevitably provide some leadership
roles to the Diocese, such leadership seems not too concerned with the well-being and growth of outlying rural or sub-urban congregations that are invariably unfortunate or poor. There are growing congregations struggling to raise even a down payment to buy a van! This uneven distribution of Church wealth is unhealthy and need to be addressed. Praise the Lord, for there are one or two financially better-off congregations in our diocese that willingly support the needy and poorer congregations! However, let us look at our financial policies and habits as a whole. (13) In the early Church, the Christians gave up all their belongings and wealth, even though the Scripture mandated to tithe only 10% of our income. Ironically, God’s wisdom was not followed by the early Church then, and neither do we now. In the ELCM, we oblige ourselves by our Constitution requirement to contribute RM50.00 or RM20.00 per month, depending if one is employed or not. However, most of our members assume that their little giving of RM 50.00 or RM 20.00 to the Church is their tithes! These so-called “tithes” are really a subscription or church fund for membership privileges. We should not call this giving “tithes” as if it is the biblical tithe of 10% of one’s income. Many give more than RM50.00 and feel satisfied by it. While tithing remains a private arrangement with oneself and God but some of our members actually do not tithe at all, but allow their parents to “tithe” on their behalf. Worse, these “paper-members” take their real tithes to other denominations! You can see their faces when a crisis hits them, and our Lutheran pastors keep running about dealing with Lutheran strangers! When our pastors talk about tithing, many ugly prejudices emerge and there is no shortage of very clever excuses for withholding their tithes. Should we not be tired of such excuses? Should we be not be upset by people who do not want to pull the weight but want to hold positions of responsibility in the Church? (14) This “unfaithfulness before God attitude” has dire consequences. It is dishonouring God to say “I tithe” when in reality we do not! The ELCM does not have enough to pay our pastors or pay for new pastors. So the Diocesan Council busies itself in collecting rentals and increasing revenues to pay for the existing pastors. To tell you the truth, sadly, we are also very busy finding out ways to reduce our spending on pastors and mission work. We are also sadly happy to have part-time pastors, and make do with retired pastors. This trend must be arrested. It cannot be arrested if members in the congregations are unfaithful before God in their giving. 5. CHURCH GROWTH (15) Whichever Outreach Centres that the Diocesan Council initiates, we fund it for a year by supplying a worker. If progress is slow, it must be adopted by an existing congregation. Failing which we will close it down. Over the last one year, I have closed 2 Outreach Centres because it did not meet the minimum in terms
Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020
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of membership or giving. But the truth is that I have not been able to get congregations to adopt these missionary works and get involved to move it for another year. This is sad. I encourage our congregations to initiate new Outreach Centres or adopt existing Centres and get involved. (16) On the other hand, two new Outreach Centres have been opened, and one more in the pipeline this year. I thank the pastors and members of Holy Cross Lutheran Congregation and Taman Sentosa Lutheran Congregation for planting these two new Outreach Centres, and also for their commitment.
theological studies and take up full-time pastoral work. (18) Our own in-house training, the Deaconess Training, and the Voluntary Pastors’ Training had not gone as well as expected, and it did not yield any harvest in anyone graduating into full-time study in the seminary. We need full-time pastors to keep the diocese going! In our ELCM, we are looking at a crisis of pastor shortage. There are currently 32 trained pastors and 5 evangelists, and by the end of the next two years there will only be 25 or even less trained pastors left. This is another trend that needs
The Diocesan Council is supporting such efforts from the Diocesan funds you give and the rentals we collect but this support is very minimal. Diocesan Council’s commitment is not hands-on because this is not the job of Diocesan Council or the Bishop. To be involved in the Outreach Centres in their day-to-day development is the function of the local congregations. Setting up Outreach Centres is the primary responsibility of the congregation, and not that of the Diocesan Council. Yet, the Diocesan Council is engaged in mission outreach work because our local congregations are still learning to change their way of thinking. I think it is time for people who do not believe in evangelism or willing to engage in mission work stand aside and let the others do their job!
to be arrested and reversed. Although the ELCM has a scope to expand to become a big diocese, it cannot be done without having enough trained fulltime Church workers like pastors or evangelists or deacons!
6. THEOLOGICAL EDUCATION AND TRAINING (17) For the Church to grow we need to send our young people to be trained in the seminaries and also for others to be trained in-house. I think the dominant mood of ELCM is to send our sons and daughters for secular education so that they can build a considerably prosperous life. It is impossible sometimes to argue with parents who are so focused on material prosperity. To worsen the situation, our young people themselves, the moment they start working get themselves trapped into debts buying a good life - a new car and a house or condominium. So, I am not surprised that in the last five years only two young men had come forth for full-time theological study and pastoral training. Others say they lack “calling” when the truth is that they are not listening to their heart-beats! We need to persuade our young qualified people to join the seminary to pursue theological studies and undergo pastoral training. Parents need to encourage their children to join the seminary for full-time study. Pastors have to encourage young qualified persons to pursue
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7. CHALLENGES AHEAD (19) The biggest challenge ahead of us is none other than us. The three areas that weigh at my heart these days are (a) our ingrained financial habits; (b) our pattern of Church growth; and (c) our commitment to fulltime ministry. I have outlined them above. I have always said that we may have to re-consider the sort of Church our future generation is going to inherit. (20) As far as challenges from the outside are concerned, let me tell you that there will always be pressure from the Islamists in the Government; and there will always be opportunities for new ministries, or new responses. There will always be natural calamities; the poor; and the tragedies facing churches and its members but if we do not put our house in order, there is no point talking about external challenges. 8. CONCLUSION (21) We need fresh blood at our leadership. The old must make room and the young must take over. There is a strong need for change. There is a need for young men and women to step forward to open their ears and heed the calling of the Lord. There is a need for financial repentance before the Lord. Let us examine our soul before God about our giving. (22) May the Lord who grants more than we can imagine and ask for, grant you wisdom and the courage to do what is right for the Lord. Rt. Rev. Dr. Solomon Rajah Bishop Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia 11th September 2015
Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020
Elcm Photo Galley
Port Klang, 13.06.2015 – Juniors of Holy Cross Lutheran Congregation after receiving scarves
Batu Gajah, 17.07.2015 – Members of Batu Gajah Lutheran Congregation during their day outing
Penang, 21 - 23.07.2015 – Cheras Lutheran Congregation members at their family retreat in Penang
Shah Alam, 09.08.2015 – Junior Work ministry of Sri Subang Lutheran Congregation initiating a new mission work in Taman Sri Muda
Kuala Lumpur, 21.08.2015 – Youths of Zion Cathedral Congregation after their “Warrior for Christ” event
Cheras, 21.08.2015 – Children of Cheras Lutheran Congregation leading worship during Children’s Sunday service
Teluk Intan, 22.08.2015 - Bethany and Holy Trinity Lutheran Congregations hosting a joint fellowship programme for women from Arcot Lutheran Church, India
Bukit Mertajam, 29.08.2015 – Women of Bukit Mertajam Lutheran Congregation after their Seminar on prayer in their premises.
Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020
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Elcm Photo Galley
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Bukit Mertajam, 31.08.2015 –Children and staff of Praise Kids Club of Bukit Mertajam Lutheran Congregation during their Merdeka Walk
Johor Bahru, 31.08.2015 – Women of Our Saviour Lutheran Congregation with guest speaker Mrs. Sandra after their one day Women’s Seminar
Kluang , 11.9.2015– Southern District pastors and spouses having fellowship at Kluang Lutheran Congregation premises.
Labis, 11.09.2015 – Dialogue between Diocesan Junior Work Committee and ElCM Southern District congregations was held at Labis Lutheran Church.
Petaling Jaya, 12.09.2015 – Good Hope Lutheran Congregation Juniors during their team building activity
Melaka, 25-27.09.2015 – Members Congregation during their family retreat
Penang, 19.09.2015 – Angel Mission Work of Victory Lutheran Congregation visiting Angel Home in Penang
Kuala Lumpur, 12.11.2015 - Bishop Dr. Solomon and Bishop Aladin of Gereja Kristen Luther Indonesia (GKLI) discussed on the proposed 3-day seminar in Sumatra, Indonesia in February 2016.
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of
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Elcm Photo Galley
Kuala Lumpur, 26 - 27.09.2015 – Members of Holy Cross Lutheran Congregation after their family prayer retreat at Catholic Pastoral Centre
Petaling Jaya, 27.09.2015 – Members of Good Hope Lutheran Congregation busy during their “Gotong Royong”
Petaling Jaya, 04.10.2015 – Good Hope Lutheran Congregation members Thanksgiving Sunday
Petaling Jaya, 10.10.2015 – Worship teams from various churches with Good Shepherd Lutheran Congregation members after their “Born to Worship” programme.
Semenyih, 10.10.2015 – Members of Good Shepherd Lutheran Congregation after a prayer meeting in Bandar Rinching
Johor Bahru, 14.10.2015 – Our Saviour Lutheran Congregation Telematch team after their Telematch games
Israel, 11.10.2015 – Rev David and his wife of Zion Cathedral Congregation during their recent visit to the Holy Land
Seremban, 17.10.2015 - Brother Francis Xavier graduated with a Master of Divinity from Seminari Theoloji Malaysia
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Elcm Photo Galley
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Johor Bahru, 17.10.2015 – Thanksgiving Auction in progress at Our Saviour Lutheran Congregation
Shah Alam, 17.10.2015 – Participants of Holy Cross Lutheran Congregation Junior Work at one-day retreat at Taman Botani Negara, Shah Alam
Bukit Mertajam, 08.11.2015 – YB Steven Sim and YB Chong Engat Bukit Mertajam Lutheran Congregation’s food and fun fair.
Penang, 11.11.2015 – Victory Lutheran Congregation’s Tanjung Bungah cell group listening to God’s word
Kuala Lumpur, 13.11.2015 – Youths of Zion Lutheran Congregation with their new “The Zion’s Lions” T – Shirt.
Kulai, 15.11.2015 – Diocesan Junior Work Committee visiting Kulai Lutheran Congregation.
Labis, 16 .11.2015 – A combined Sunday School/Junior work training was held at Labis Lutheran Congregation
Teluk Intan, 23.08.2015 – Confirmands from Holy Trinity Lutheran Congregation with Bishop after their confirmation
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Elcm Photo Galley
Teluk Intan, 24.10.2015 – Alvin Sivasegaran and Saral after their wedding service at Bethesda Lutheran Congregation
Penang, 17.05.2015– Three children were baptised at Victory Lutheran Congregation
Bukit Mertajam, 16.08.2015 – Baptism of Catherine, Ebstiba and Julia at Bukit Mertajam Lutheran Congregation
Port Klang, 16.08.2015 – 3 children were baptised at Holy Cross Lutheran Congregation
Kuala Lumpur, 13.09.2015 – Ethan Aditya was baptised at Zion Redeemer Lutheran Congregation
Cheras, 04.10.2015 – 6 children from Cheras Lutheran Congregation were baptised by Bishop
Kuala Lumpur, 25.10.2015 – Baptism of Ezra Zayne Abishegam in progress in Zion Redeemer Lutheran Congregation
Teluk Intan, 15.11.2015 – Sree from Bethany Home was baptised at Bethesda Lutheran Congregation
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BRIEF REPORT ON
52 DIOCESAN ASSEMBLY nd
T
he Sutera Hotel, Seremban 2, Negeri Sembilan once again, saw the gathering together of the Diocesan Assembly (DA) delegates of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia. On Friday, the 11th of September, 2015 DA Delegates from all over the diocese converged at this hotel to participate in the 52nd Diocesan Assembly which concluded the next day Saturday, the 12th of September 2015 with lunch. The 52nd Diocesan Assembly, chaired by Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah, was a fruitful and productive event. A total of 71 delegates, 22 pastors and 49 laity, plus several observers, participated in this assembly. The DA commenced at 2.00 pm on the first day with an Opening Holy Communion Service led by Rev. Steven Lawrence and Rev. G. Sritharan. There were 7 sessions in this 52nd DA – 4 on the first day and 3 on the second day. Session 1 began at 3.00 pm with Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah welcoming all the delegates and observes. The Diocesan Secretary, Mr. Silas M. Das, then proceeded to conduct the roll-call. It was announced that there was a quorum. Following the roll-call, Bishop officially announced the commencement of the 52nd Diocesan Assembly. The appointments of 2 recording secretaries, 4 polling officers and 3 business committee members were then confirmed. The assembly then unanimously confirmed the Arbitration Panel. The resolutions taken at the 51st Triennium Diocesan Assembly were also approved before the assembly adjourned for tea at 4.00pm. Session 2 commenced at 4.45 pm, with the Bishop’s Address being the sole item on the agenda. Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah, in his address, touched on the following salient points:-
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Culturally, we are basically a Tamil speaking Church. However, we also enjoy “diversity” – 4 of our congregations speak English as their medium of faith and we also enjoy the company of Batak Lutheran Indonesians, Nigerian Lutherans, Punjabis, Malayalis, Telugus, Chinese and various other South Asian groups worshipping with us. l We are Lutherans and the centrality of our doctrine is salvation on the Cross, faith and God’s will for all people. l As Lutherans, we have our own culture of worship, diakonia service and living confidently in the world. l Our objectives of STRENGHTENING and EXPANDING the ELCM that were spelt out 6 years ago remain unchanged. l Currently, the ELCM needs to focus on 3 areas, namely Faithfulness and Finance, Church Growth and Theological education and training. l On faithfulness and finance, the Bishop noted that there was a determined group of faithful Lutherans in our leadership who have been upholding the ELCM and keeping the Lutheran traditions alive. l The Bishop also called on all Church members to be faithful before God in their giving. l As regards to theological education and training, the Bishop noted that there was a crisis of pastor shortage and emphasized on the need to send our young people to be trained in the seminaries and also for others to be trained in-house. l Three areas of great concern were our ingrained financial habits, our pattern of Church growth and our commitment to full-time ministry. l We need to first put our house in order before we meet the external challenges and pressures. l Bishop concluded his address by highlighting the need for fresh blood at our leadership, the need for change and the need for financial repentance before the Lord. l
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Rev. Balraj Maniam proposed a vote of thanks to the Bishop for his address which was seconded by Mr. Peter Khar.
Session 3 began at 5.45pm with the Diocesan Secretary, Mr. Silas M. Das, presenting his Annual Report for year 2915. He highlighted several aspects including the following:l The Diocesan Secretary, Mr. Silas M. Das, in his Annual Report for year 2014, highlighted several aspects including the following:l The Diocesan Council’s main focus for the year 2014 was based on the Vision and Mission Statements to STRENGTHEN and EXPAND the ELCM. l The year 2014 saw the launching of the Diocesan Campaign 2014 “Year of Mission” by the Bishop at the Pastors’ Conference held on 4th February, 2014 in the Lutheran Hall, Kuala Lumpur. l 30 pastors and 63 laity attended the 2014 Diocesan Assembly at Sutera Hotel, Seremban 2. During this Assembly the new Diocesan Council for the Triennium 2014 – 2017 was elected. l The ground-breaking ceremony for the Family Counseling Centre and Prayer Tower was officiated by the Bishop on Saturday, 8th November 2014 at 6.30 pm. th l The Zion Cathedral Congregation celebrated its 90 Anniversary, Thanksgiving and Appreciation Dinner on the 8th of November 2014 at 6.20 pm in the Lutheran Hall. l On ecumenical relations the Church continued its tradition of good relations with other churches in 2014 including CCM, FIDC, LWF and STM. l The ELCM continues to maintain good relations with the Church of Sweden, Lutheran Church of Australia, Danmission, Lutheran Church of Missouri Synod, Mission Einewelt, Germany, Tamil Evangelical Lutheran Church, Tamil Nadu and Arcot Lutheran Church, Tamil Nadu. l The Diakonia ministry in the ELCM, the latest project being the Family Counselling Centre & Prayer Tower, continued to grow and was well managed by the Local Council of Zion Cathedral Lutheran Congregation. Mr. Silas M. Das proceeded to touch on the challenges ahead for the next 5 years (2016 – 2020) the external challenges on our youths, the lack of growth in membership and the need to change our attitudes and move forward with shared responsibilities to make our ELCM from just an existing church to an emerging and growing church. The Diocesan Secretary also presented a slide showing the current status of our congregations in terms of full membership. Session 4 commenced at 6.30pm. During this session, the Diocesan Treasurer, Mr. Selvaraj Anugraham, presented the Audited Annual Accounts 2014 and the Budget 2016. Both the said accounts and budget for
2016 were unanimously approved. The Assembly adjourned for the first day at 7.00 pm with prayer. The Second day (12th September 2015) began with any inspiring Praise & Worship session followed by a roll-call. Bishop announced that the 2nd day’s agenda and programme could proceed as there was a quorum. Session 5 began at sharp 9.00 am with the Diocesan Secretary tabling the following DC resolution to the Assembly: “It is hereby resolved that Article 7.12 (e) of the Constitution of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia (ROS ref: 290 (Selangor) be deleted.” The Diocesan Secretary explained that one of the reasons for the resolution was that it would give the DA a wider pool of pastors to choose for the office of the Bishop and ensure that a suitable pastor is elected.
The resolution after a lively debate was duly approved by the Diocesan Assembly by a two-thirds majority in compliance with Article 12.4 of the ELCM Constitution. Session 6, commencing at 10.00 am, diakonia ministry reports by the respective Committee Report. The Final session of the assembly, Session 7, began at 12.30 pm. The Bishop, in his closing address, expressed his gratitude to all delegates present for their attendance and participation. He conveyed his special appreciation to the office staff for their support and hard work. The 52nd Diocesan Assembly was brought to a close at 12.45 pm with a vote of thanks to the Chair and prayers led by Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah and Rev. Anbunathan Samuel. All in all, it had been a fruitful Assembly. The Lutheran Herald
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ELCM Diakonia Ministries Rumah Hope, Petaling Jaya
On the, 14th of October 2015, Rumah Hope hosted 33 international participants of the LWF Human and Institutional Capacity Development (HIDC) Workshop which was held at the Seminar Hall of the Family Counselling Centre, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur.
Rumah Chrestus, Cheras
The Men’s Fellowship of Cheras Lutheran Congregation organised a fund-raising Jumble Sale on the 16th of September, 2015. The funds raised were given to the Management Committee of Rumah Chrestus. Rumah Chrestus continues to provide shelter, care and education for underprivileged, abused and neglected children. More information can be obtained from the Pastorin-Charge Rev. Eliezer Peter, at 016 622 4421 and Mr Johnson Davarajoo at 019 286 2580.
Rumah Harmoni Trinity, Teluk Intan
Rumah Harmoni Trinity, Teluk Intan under the leadership of Rev. T. Vijayan, continues to provide care for 10 abused, neglected and underprivileged children. A fundraising dinner was held at a restaurant in Teluk Intan on 17th of October, 2015 to raise funds for the home. This event received a good response from the public.
Family Counselling Centre (FCC) and Prayer Tower, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur The FCC & Prayer Tower, which were launched by the Bishop on the 18th of July, 2015, is now fully operational. The FCC and Prayer Tower offer services like family and individual counselling and prayer to church members and the public. More than 25 people, including nonchurch members have been counselled thus far. 2 major church programs, have been conducted at the Seminar Room. The operating hours of the FCC and Prayer Tower are as follows: FCC : Tuesdays – Fridays - 11.00am to 5.00pm Saturdays and Sundays - 11.00am to 1.00pm Prayer Tower: Mondays – Sundays - 10.00pm to 10.00pm For more information on the FCC and Prayer Tower, please contact: Telephone number 03-22737333
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Women’s Care and Counselling Centre (WCCC), Port Klang
The WCCC, a ministry of the Holy Cross Lutheran Congregation, Port Klang, provides counselling service, care and material assistance to unwed mothers and reaching out to the women in need across Malaysia. Five years have passed and WCCC continues to stand strong in upholding its core values and spreading the gospel of Jesus to lost women besides providing help to women in need, WCCC has connected ELCM in networking with various churches, conducting workshop for women, counselling various domestic cases relating to issue faced by women, working with the government such as Women’s Aid Organisation (WAC) and Human Trafficking Organisation (NCWO) and also hosting awareness programmes in various churches. For further information, please contact Mrs. Elizabeth Gopal at 016-6494635.
Praise Community Centre (PCC), Bukit Mertajam
The Praise Community Centre (PCC) is a ministry of the Bukit Mertajam Lutheran Congregation, Pulau Pinang. Services available at the Centre include tuition classes for primary school children every Monday and Wednesday. Computer facilities are also provided for underprivileged children. Most of the children also attend the Praise Kids’ Club (PKC). A food and fun fair was held on 8th of November 2015 to raise funds for the PCC. Please continue to support this ministry through your prayers and financial support.
Bethany Home, Teluk Intan
Bethany Home celebrated its 49th Anniversary on the 24th of October, 2015. Our Bishop Rt. Rev. Dr. Solomon Rajah graced the occasion and delivered God’s message during the special thanksgiving service. Friends and well-wishers of Bethany Home came from far and near for the joyous occasion. The celebration ended with a fellowship dinner in the evening.
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ELCM Outreach Ministries KLANG JAYA LUTHERAN OUTREACH, SELANGOR
The Klang Jaya Lutheran Outreach, under the oversight of Rev. G.V. Sritharan conducts regular worship services commencing 7.30 pm every Sunday. Bible study sessions are held every Thursday commencing 8.30pm. About 20 people participate in the outreach’s activities. Please contact the Pastor-in-Charge, Rev. G.V. Sritharan, at 014-3017216, for further information on this ministry.
KLANG UTAMA LUTHERAN OUTREACH, SELANGOR
The Klang Utama Lutheran Outreach under the ovesight of Rev. Easupillay provides spiritual care and guidance for 25 souls. Prayer Meetings are being held every Thursday, commencing 8.00 pm, at a member’s house. Please contact the Pastor-in-Charge, Rev. Easupillay, at 016-2940415 for further information.
RASAH LUTHERAN OUTREACH AT SEREMBAN, NEGERI SEMBILAN
Rasah Lutheran Outreach has about 30 members under its spiritual care. Divine worship services are held every Sunday at 6.00pm. On Sundays, after service, adults and youths come together for Bible study and children participate in the Sunday School. Kindly contact Rev. Joseph Bernandus or Rev. Steven Lawrence for details on this ministry.
District Pastors for 2016
The following Pastors have been appointed as District Pastors for the year 2016
Rev. T. Vijayan Northern District H/P: 016 622 4421
Rev. Eliezer Peter Central District H/P: 016 622 4421
Rev. Samuel Anbunathan Southern District H/P: 016 720 1861
Please remember the above-mentioned Pastors in your prayers as they assume leadership in their respective districts in the new year.
Our Condolences... Mr Martin Emmanuel Abishegam of Zion Redeemer Lutheran Congregation, Kuala Lumpur entered into eternal rest on 24th August, 2015 at the age of 80. The funeral service was held on 26th August, 2015 at Zion Cathedral followed by burial at Nirvana Christian Cemetery, Semenyih. We thank God for his life and express our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, grandchildren and other loved ones. Mdm. Clara Koren of Good Samaritan Lutheran Congregation passed away peacefully on 29th August, 2015. The funeral service was held on 30th August, 2015 at Good Samaritan Lutheran Congregation followed by cremation at Cheras Christian Crematorium. We thank God for her faithful life and express our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and church members. Mrs. Joyce Leela Sekaran of Good Samaritan Lutheran Congregation passed away peacefully on 2nd September, 2015. The funeral service was held on 4th September, 2015 at Good Samaritan Lutheran Congregation followed by burial at Cheras Christian Cemetery. We thank God for her life and express our heartfelt condolences to her family, friends and church members. Mr. David Selvaraj Abraham of Holy Cross Lutheran Congregation went home to our Lord Jesus Christ on the 24th of October, 2015 at the age of 68. The funeral service was held on the 28th of October 2015 at Zion Cathedral followed by burial at Cheras Christian Cemetery. We thank God for his faithful services to the ELCM and express our heartfelt condolences to his family, friends and church members.
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MAIN PROGRAMME FOR 2016
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3rd January 2016
Zion Cathedral, Kuala Lumpur
Holy Communion Service, Kuala Lumpur
5th – 7th January 2016
CCM Heads of Churches Retreat
Retreat, Johor Bahru
18th – 23rd January 2016
Mission Partnership Meeting
Meeting
2nd February 2016
CCM Board of Management Meeting
Meeting, Petaling Jaya
9.00 am
16th February 2016
Pastors’ Conference (Reporting 2015)
Conference, Lutheran Hall, Kuala Lumpur
9.00 am
17th February 2016
STM Council Meeting
Meeting, Petaling Jaya
2.00 pm
19th February 2016
Theos Missional Conference
Conference, Kuala Lumpur
10.30 am
22nd February 2016
Installation of Archbishop, Anglican Church
St. Mary’s Cathedral, Kuala Lumpur
4.00 pm
27th February 2016
Opening of Time Capsule
Gathering, Zion Compound
5.00 pm
8th March 2016 24th March 2016
FIDC EXCO Meeting
Meeting. Melaka
11.00 am
Maundy Thursday
Service, Kuala Lumpur
7.00 pm
25th March 2016
Good Friday
Service, Zion Cathedral
12 Noon
27th March 2016
Easter, Good Hope Lutheran Congregation
Easter Service, Petaling Jaya
9.00 am
29th March 2016
CCM Indian, Committee Meeting
Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room
11.00 am
2nd April 2016
Joint Committee Meeting
Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room
10.30 am
20th April 2016
STM Fundraising Dinner
Gathering, Seremban
6.00 pm
26th – 28th April 2016
CCM Triennium Assembly
Assembly, Penang
2.00 pm
29th April – 2nd May 2016
50th Junior Work Anniversary Camp
Camp, Selangor
4.00 pm
4th May 2016
STM Council Meeting STM, AGM
Meeting, Seremban AGM, Seremban
4.00 pm
14th May 2016
Wedding, Kuala Lumpur
Service, Klang
9.00 am
25th – 27th May 2016
CCM Pastors’ School
Study & Meeting, Seremban
9.00 am
24th – 26th June 2016
FIDC Seminar
Seminar, Seremban
9.00 am
19th July 2016
Pastors’ Conference (Planning 2017)
Conference, Lutheran Hall, Kuala Lumpur
9.00 am
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9.00 am
MAIN PROGRAMME FOR 2016 20th August 2016
Northern District Sports’ Day
Sports’ Day, Teluk Intan
23rd – 25th August 2016
ELCM –LCMS Theological Seminar
Seminar, Diocesan Seminar Room, Kuala Lumpur
9th – 10th September 2016
53rd Diocesan Assembly
Assembly, Venue – will be notified
1st October 2015
Joint Committee Meeting
Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room
2.00 pm
5th October 2016
STM Council Meteing
Meeting, Petaling Jaya
3.00 pm
15th October 2016
STM Graduation Service
Graduation, Seremban
9.30 am
18th October 2016
CCM Board of Management Meeting
Meeting, Petaling Jaya
6.00 pm
22nd October 2016
Bethany Home, 50th Anniversary Thanksgiving Service
Service & Fellowship Dinner, Teluk Intan
9.00 am
27th November 2016
Central District, Candlelight Fellowship
Gathering, Lutheran Hall, Kuala Lumpur
7.00 pm
24th December 2016
Christmas Eve Service
Zion Cathedral, Kuala Lumpur
7.00 pm
31st December 2016
Bishop’s Service
Zion Cathedral, Kuala Lumpur
11.30 pm
1st January 2017
New Year Service
Zion Cathedral, Kuala Lumpur
9.00 am
9.00 am
DIOCESAN COUNCIL MEETINGS
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ELCM Events / News Updates VISIT BY ARCOT LUTHERAN CHURCH MEMBERS (22nd TO 28th AUGUST, 2015)
Rev. Neethidoss and 8 women from the Arcot Lutheran Church visited the ELCM during the above – mentioned period. The group’s exposure mission trip included visits to Teluk Intan, Kuala Lumpur and Singapore. The visitors also paid a courtesy call to the Bishop at his office on the 27th of August, 2015. LAUNCHING OF RUMAH RAKAN LUTHERAN 50 people attended the launching of Rumah Rakan Lutheran, Taman Sentosa, Klang by the Bishop at 11.00 am on the 29th of August, 2015. Rumah Rakan Lutheran is a ministry of the Taman Sentosa Lutheran Congregation. A fund-raising dinner
attended by 500 people was held later in the day at a seafood restaurant in Klang. ELCM DEACONESS TRAINING PROGRAMME (24th – 26th SEPTEMBER, 2015)
premises. A total of 4 pastors and 28 women members from the district, in addition to 6 DWC members, attended the event. ELCM CONTRIBUTION OF RM 10,000.00 TOWARDS THE CONSTRUCTION OF ARCOT LUTHERAN CHURCH (ALC) JUBILEE CHURCH Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah, on the 17th of September, 2015 handed over a bank draft for RM 10,000.00 to Rt. Rev. Raja Socrates, Bishop-President of the ALC at his office in Cuddalore, Tamil Nadu. The said amount was ELCM’s contribution towards the construction of the ALC Jubilee Church at Melpattampakkam, Tamil Nadu. Also present
at the handing-over ceremony were office-bearers of the ALC Church Board, Rev. Neethidoss (Vice-Chairman), Mr. Jesudian (Secretary) and Rev. Gurunathan (Treasurer) and ELCM representatives, Rev. Steven Lawrence, Rev. Eliezer Peter and STM student, Mr. Jeffrey Solomon. DIOCESAN WOMEN’S COMMITTEE (DWC) NORTHERN DISTRICT BIBLE QUIZ
Deaconess Grace Rao, Director of Deaconess Training, LCMS, United States, conducted the above programme which was held in the Diocesan Seminar Room. A total of 8 women from the ELCM participated in the training. APPOINTMENT OF NEW WARDEN FOR LUTHERAN WOMEN’S HOSTEL (LWH) Retired Deaconess Nesamany has been appointed as the new warden of the LWH effective 1st September, 2015. DIOCESAN WOMEN’S COMMITTEE (DWC) SOUTHERN DISTRICT BIBLE QUIZ The DWC organised a bible quiz based on the books of Job and Revelation for women of the Southern District on the 26th of September, 2015 in the Kluang Lutheran Congregation
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The DWC Bible Quiz for women of the Northern District was held in the premises of the Immanuel Lutheran Congregation, Ipoh on the 3rd of October, 2015. A total of 4 pastors and 12 women members from the district, in addition to 5 DWC members, attended the quiz. ORDINATION OF WOMEN IN THE LUTHERAN CHURCH OF AUSTRALIA (LCA) The General Synod 2015 of the LCA has said ‘no’ to the ordination of women. The Synod is expected to deliberate on the impact of this decision on the Church.
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ELCM Events / News Updates REV. DR. ANDREW PFEIFFER IS THE NEW ASSISTANT BISHOP OF THE LCA Rev. Dr. Andrew Pfeiffer was elected unopposed to the position of Assistant Bishop for a synodical term of 3 years and installed at the closing service of the LCA Convention on the 4th of October, 2015. 500 ANNIVERSARY OF THE REFORMATION In 2017, 70 million Lutheran Christians all over the world would be celebrating and commemorating God’s grace and blessings upon them over 500 years since the Reformation. As we approach 2017, let us remind each other, and also tell the world, that the God who has been faithful to us over all these years is not finished with us yet. We have a future. Let us start building it. th
BRIEFING FOR CENTRAL DISTRICT PASTORS ON GLOBAL PROCLAMATION CONGRESS FOR PASTORAL TRAINERS (GProCongress) On the 19th of November 2015, Rev. Dr. Ramesh Richard from the United States, together with Dato’ Selwyn Das, gave a briefing to Central District Pastors on the Global Proclamation Congress for Pastoral Trainers (GProCongress) in the Diocesan Conference Room, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur. The GProCongress connects, unites and strengthens
pastoral trainers in order to better deliver training to the world’s 2 million-plus undertrained pastors. Rev. Dr. Richard welcomed the Church in Malaysia to “stand with the global church in delivering spiritual health and accelerating church health.” LWF Human Resources Management Workshop (10-15th October 2015) About 35 participants from selected member churches attended the human Resources Management workshop themed “Enhancing Capacity for Diakonia” organised by Lutheran World Federation – Department for Mission Development from the 10th to the 15th of October 2015. This HRM workshop was hosted by the ELCM. The Objectives
of this workshop included enhancing insights and skills of Diaconal actors towards improving organisational performance, succession planning, human resources development and policy appraisals in the member churches and related diakonia organisations.
For more information, please contact: Rev. Dr. Paul K. (HP:013-343 3911)
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ELCM PROGRAMME FOR 2016 ELCM PROGRAMME FOR 2016 Date
In-charge
16th February 2016 19th July 2016 rd th 23 to 25 August 2016 th th 9 - 10 September 2016
Diocesan Pastors’ Conference (Reporting 2015), K L Diocesan Pastors’ Conference (Planning 2017), K L ELCM – LCMS Mercy Conference, KL rd 53 Diocesan Assembly
Bishop’s Office Bishop’s Office Bishop’s Office Diocesan Council
SUNDAY SCHOOL
10th – 12th June 2016
Diocesan Vacation Bible School
Diocesan Sunday School Committee
WOMEN
26th – 28th August 2016
Diocesan Women’s Convention
Diocesan Women’s’ Committee
YOUTH
15th – 17th July 2016
Diocesan Youth Convention
JUNIOR WORK
29th April – 2nd May 2016 23rd -25th September 2016
50 Anniversary Junior Work Camp Basic & Advance Junior Work Leadership Training
Diocesan Junior Work Committee
SENIOR FELLOWSHIP
9th July 2016
Senior Fellowship Seminar
Diocesan Senior Fellowship Committee
North th 27 February 2016
Men’s Lent Retreat, Penang
27th – 28th May 2016
Local Council Retreat, Tapah
Northern District Pastors
20th August 2016
Sports Day, Holy Trinity, Teluk
Central th 30 January 2016
Prayer Retreat
June 2016
Vacation Bible School
31st August 2016
Leadership Training – Church Planting
27th November 2016
Candle Light Fellowship
South July 2016
LSBS Certificate Course
DIOCESAN
DISTRICT PROGRAMMES FOR 2016
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Event
th
8th August 2016
Revival Meeting, Labis Sunday School & Junior Work (T/Shirt)
September 2016
Family Retreat
November 2016
Youth Camp (Finding Creative Leaders)
November 2016
Family Day/Reformation Day. Kluang (Public Holiday)
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Diocesan Youth Committee
Central District Pastors
Southern District Pastors
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