Lutheran Herald - 31 Edition December 2019

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Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia

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August 2012 2019 31st Edition | DECEMBER

10th Edition

erod, the ruler of Judea at the time of the birth of Jesus Christ, is known in secular history as ‘The Great’ but he is known better as the man who ordered the slaughter of hundreds of innocent young children in order to kill the infant Jesus. This day is better remembered in Church history long before Christmas became a common festival. The day is known as the ‘Holy Innocents Day’ and the modern Church calendar fixes this day as December 28, that is three days after Christmas. The role of Herod in Christmas is an astounding tale in itself because although Herod himself died when Jesus was a young boy, Jesus’ influence on the descendants of Herod, who continued to rule Judea, was in truth divine action.

that Christmas is the birthday of Jesus to all our nonbelievers. And that should be enough! Let us celebrate with gaiety and happiness, sharing and caring, and rejoicing in our Churches that the Lord is with us, and his day is at hand. There are many people in authority who consider that Christmas is an abomination.

But they too realize that Christmas puts the money where it belongs when it comes to “Christmas Sales!”

What these evil men do to suppress Christmas is an attempt to suppress the Good News of God, and the fact remains that they have not read the Bible about those who tried to suppress Jesus Christ. Perhaps, we should re-focus and avoid the politicization, and maybe even the commercialization associated to modern-day Christmas.

Solemnity versus Gaiety in Christmas We often complain that there is too much hype in Christmas, and assisted along by the shopping malls that the true purpose of Christmas is lost in all the noise. We even painfully are calling to “put Christ back into Christmas!” No matter what happens today, let us continue to proclaim

Herod and the Wise Men When we turn to the Gospel according to Matthew, the Scripture tells us that the enquiries of the unassuming wise men of the East at the court of Herod triggered the murderous and historical

Bishop’s Christmas Message 1-5 Editorial 6-7 Message from Diocesan Secretary 8 Message from Diocesan Treasurer 9 Sights, Smells and Sounds of Christmas 9

EDA 2019 Photo Gallery ELCM Photo Gallery Bishop’s DA Address Brief Report on 56th DA 2019 Bishop’s Main Programme for 2020

10 - 11 12 - 17 18 - 20 22 - 23 24 -25

24 District Pastors for 2020 25 Diocesan Council Meetings ELCM Events/News Updates 26 - 27 27 Our Condolences 28 ELCM Programmes for 2020

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action by Herod (Matthew 2:1-12). The fact that God provided for the sustenance of Joseph and Mary through the wise men’s very gifts, shows that though they were the apparent cause of Herod’s fatal jealousy, the life of Jesus was in danger anyhow – wise men or not. Therefore, the one man behind ‘Holy Innocents Day’ was the lone figure of Herod the Great. Let us look at what sort of Christmas this evil man endured.

There is a reason why he was given the nickname “The Great.” He was a Jew, and therefore the king of Jerusalem and a legitimate ruler of the whole of Judea. He made his peace with the superpower of his time, the Romans. And due to Herod’s influential administration, the Romans established peace and stability for five decades before the advent of Jesus.

The Holy Land before the rise of Herod had suffered so much in the hands of foreign powers who seemed to make it a point to desecrate the Temple of God or whatever that was left of it. Each time Herod turned out to be a master peace-keeper between the Jews (the Pharisees, the Sanhedrin (Council) of the Temple and the ruling class of aristocracy) and the Romans who forcefully and culturally assimilated the Jews as the basis for their Roman peace, the Pax Romana.

By the time the magi (wise men) came to see him, Herod was well-aged, late in his fifties, and had already decided upon his dynasty in Judea. His will provided for the division of Judea into four parts, one part for each of his sons, and Jerusalem to be ruled by a Roman Governor who will protect and respect the Temple and the Sanhedrin. This was a fragile political arrangement that could be revoked anytime and suddenly by his more powerful allies, the Romans. So, Herod’s commitment to the completion of the Temple complex and preservation of the religious authority of Judea was built on a very thin confidence that everything was going right for the land. It is into this very fragile political climate, the wise men intruded to say the last thing, “a King is born in Jerusalem.”

But Herod wanted to remain as king! The wise men further betrayed Herod by not reporting to him but fled quietly into the desert. Herod could not have understood what could be more precious than the peace he had kept for fifty years; and what could be

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more important than the alliance of the Romans and the Sanhedrin for the construction of the Temple; and what could be more suitable than him and his family to rule Judea. Why another king? That was why a great man like Herod lost his composure, and to silence such a dissention in his kingdom or a whispering of such dissent, Herod ordered the killing of the young children. It was a night of rage, murder and blood on his head… that was Herod’s Christmas.

The Story Continues The story does not end there for Herod. He died as an old man a few years later, and his grown-up sons took over Judea and ruled each quarter of Judea as tetrarchs, all with the blessing of the Roman Emperor.

The Scripture does tell us that the story of Jesus who escaped Herod’s massacre was not without witnesses.

This fact was to follow the entire ministry of Jesus, and thereafter.

First, the youngest son of Herod, the one called Herod Antipas was a man in the court of Herod at the time of Jesus’ birth. He must have taken to heart all these things that his father had done. Among all his brothers, Herod Antipas alone showed a deep interest in Jesus and his movement. Later when Jesus began his ministry in Galilee, Herod Antipas was ruler there. He was a careful observer of who this “messiah” was and his potential for moving public opinion.

This also explains why the High Priests in Jerusalem who would normally relegate such “messiahs” as village fools would even send the authorities and officials to enquire after Jesus. See Mark 3:22, 7:1, Luke 5:17; John 1:19 and even Acts 25:7. It is noteworthy that Herod Antipas had a careful regard for John the Baptist who nonetheless was imprisoned and beheaded by him (Mark 6:17-29; Matthew 14:3-4; Luke 3:19-20). And Herod Antipas was in Jerusalem at the palace with Pontius Pilate all excited to meet the Jesus and refused to pass judgment on Jesus (Luke 23:6-12). This explains the fascination of Herod Antipas about the “king” his father had tried to kill and failed.

Second, this also explains the behaviour and nature of the death of Herod Antipas who upon realizing that

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Jesus the crucified was indeed the King whom his father tried to kill, claimed himself to be king and godlike as the Roman notion of epiphany. The Scripture tells us that he was “smote by an Angel of the Lord” verily eaten by worms for his blasphemy (Acts 12:2123). Secular sources give a more dignified explanation for the death of Herod Antipas – they said he died in exile in Spain!

Third, this is of interest to students of history. In the decades that followed, the death of Jesus, Christians were a minority who were persecuted with liberty.

Neither the Romans nor the Jewish authority defended the Christians. Yet, Josephus (a Jewish historian) made a meticulous mention of the followers of Chrestus, and made an eye-witness account of the complete destruction of the great Temple in 70AD in which he outlined the treachery of the Sanhedrin and their Sadducees and the Herodians. What is even more interesting is that Josephus was an aristocrat and a close political affiliate to the Herodians who became a Roman citizen. But it is a fact that he was also the son of Joseph, the youngest brother of Herod the Great!

Fourth, we also have the Scripture telling us that while Herod Antipas took the evil path, there were many in his court who saw Jesus for who he really was – a Saviour from God. Joanna the wife of Chuza was a beneficiary of Jesus when she was healed of infirmities caused by evil spirits (Luke 8:2-3). Chuza was the steward or manager of the household of Herod Antipas – an eye witness to all that happened in the palace.

Joanna not only became a disciple but she provided for the care of Jesus and his group of followers, and was herself in Jerusalem at the crucifixion and on the morning of the Resurrection as a myrrh-bearer (Luke 24:10).

We also find in Acts 13:1-2 that in the Church in Antioch that prayed, fasted, and set aside Paul and Barnabas to go out into what we call the Apostle Paul’s First Missionary Journey was one Manaen. He is referred to as “a member of the court of Herod the tetrarch” in many Bible versions. But the Greek Bible says he was “suckled equally of” Herod Antipas. and this means he was likely the son of ‘Herod the Great’ but of a woman with no royal lineage, already an adult at the time of Jesus’ birth.

We also find in Church history that an increasing number of wild riots began to emerge throughout Judea after the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. Some attribute it to the new found confidence among the Jews to challenge the Roman authority. As a result of this, Pontius Pilate was removed from his job and was replaced by a military authority that eventually destroyed Jerusalem. Church tradition has it that Pontius Pilate himself returned to Rome and thence settled in Alexandria where he renounced all his wealth, was baptized and died a happy Christian. He was a recognized saint in the early Church.

Conclusion We are drawing near to the end of the year. And we are looking at a Christmas where it is difficult to invite our Hindu or Muslim brothers and sisters to our houses. It seems even uncertain if they would even like to wish us a happy Christmas. No greeting cards, no exchange of sweets, no fellowship meals, no playing fireworks together, no invitation to carollers … all these seem to have died a natural death a long time ago. Those days of trust and fellowship among neighbours are over.

Still, do not be discouraged because Jesus will always prevail. He will touch even the most hardened of hearts in his own time. If the Temple in Jerusalem had to be destroyed to free the Jews from their oppression, God would do it.

Take heart that even as the country becomes more polarized based on race and religion, our God will seek out the most hardened of hearts and touch him or her for salvation. In some circles, this polarization is thought to be a good thing for the country. How odd that even in Jesus’ time and during the early Church, Christians were taught to be “sampah masyarakat” (society’s rubbish) and their message that did not care for political power at all, and Christians were perceived as a threat to political power. The people are as they were, hungry for a God who is compassionate, loving, healing and setting them free from the oppression of making a public display of their loyalty by doing things that their conscience did not allow. It is surprising that it has not changed much. In fact, we are living almost in the very same environment.

Whatever it was, the conflict between conscience and politics remains unchanged. Religion is all about conscience and compassion. And that is power from God. But when it strives for privileged access to resources, then hypocrites and wicked persons rule.

This plays out over and over in every organized religion, not just in Christianity. This drama plays out over and over again not just in Judea of Herod but even today in most nations of the world. But God is not left without his witnesses. Like so many of the Great Herod’s household came to Jesus acknowledging him as the Son of God, so too people who persecute us will one day find among us children of clean hearts.

They will question the deeds of their fellowmen who want to persecute our Lord. In the end, the victor is Jesus Christ. He will prevail. The wicked will just pass away. Thus, is the solemn Christmas for us … not very unlike the Christmas during Herod’s time. Christmas is always the beginning of the message of hope. How this hope is played out is history and our God always triumphs. Have a blessed Christmas.

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 2019

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Qhdpfs;> mtiu ghu;f;f te;j NghJ> VNuhJ tajhdtuhf ,Ue;jhh;.

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VNuhJ njhlh;e;J uh[hthapUf;Fk;gb tpUk;gpdhh;.

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Nahtd;dhs; (Y}f; 8:2-3;> 24:10)> kdhaPd; (mg;. 13:1-2).

KbTiu ehk; Mz;bd; ,Wjpapy; neUq;fp te;jpUf;fpNwhk;. ,e;J K];yPk; rNfhju rNfhjupfis ek; tPLfSf;F miof;f fbdkhd xU fpwp];Jk]hf ,ijg; ghh;f;fpNwhk;. mtu;fs; ekf;F fpwp];Jk]; tho;j;J $Wthh;fs; vd;w epr;rakpy;iy. tho;j;J ml;ilfs; ,y;iy> ,dpg;G gupkhw;wk; ,y;iy> $l;LwT czT ,y;iy> xd;whf gl;lhR ntbg;gjpy;iy> Nfuy; ghLNthUf;F miog;G ,y;iy… ,it midj;Jk; ePz;l fhyj;jpw;F Kd;Ng ,aw;ifahf kupj;J tpl;lJ vd;W njupfpwJ. cw;whh; eLtpy; ek;gpf;ifAk; $l;LwTk; nfhz;l me;j ehl;fs; Kbe;Jtpl;ld. MdhYk;> Nrhu;tila Ntz;lhk;> Vndd;why; ,NaR vg;NghJk; ntw;wp ngWthu;. kpfTk; fbdg;gLj;jg;gl;l ,jaq;fis $l mtu; njhLthu;. a+jh;fs; tpLtpf;fg;gl n[UrNyk; Njthyak; cilf;fg;gl Ntz;Lnkd;why;> mijAk; nra;thh;. kdrhl;rpf;Fk; murpaYf;Fk; ,ilapyhd Nkhjy; khwhky; cs;sJ . kjk; vd;gJ kdrhl;rp kw;Wk; ,uf;fj;ijg; gw;wpaJ. mJ flTsplkpUe;J tUk; rf;jpahFk;. Mdhy; jtwhf gad;gLj;jg;gLk; NghJ fgljhupfs; kw;Wk; nghy;yhj egu;fs; Ml;rp nra;Ak; epiy Vw;gLfpwJ. ,e;j ehlfkhdJ fpwpj;Jtj;jpy; kl;Lky;yhJ> xt;nthU kjj;jpYk; cs;sJ. ,e;j ehlfkhdJ ntWk; A+Njahtpd; VNuhjpd; %yk; kl;Lky;yhJ cyfpd; gy ehLfspy; tfpf;fpwJ. Mdhy; flTs; jdJ rhl;rpfs; ,y;yhky; tplg;gLtjpy;iy. md;W VNuhjpd; tPl;lhupy; mNefh; ,NaRit Njt Fkhudhf mwpf;ifapl;lJ Nghy ek;ik Jd;GWj;Jgth;fs; xUehs; ek;ik ,Ujaj;jpy; Rj;jKs;sth;fshfg; ghh;ghh;fs;. vq;fs; ,iwtidj; Jd;GWj;j tpUk;Gk; rf kdpju;fspd; nray;fis mtu;fs; Nfs;tp Nfl;ghu;fs;. ,Wjpapy;> ntw;wpahsu; ,NaR fpwp];JNt. mtu; ntw;wp ngWthu;. Jd;khu;f;fd; mg;gbNa mope;J Ngha;tpLthd;. ,JNt vq;fSf;F kdg;G+u;tkhd fpwp];Jk];... VNuhjpd; fhy fpwp];Jk]; NghyNt. fpwp];Jk]; vg;NghJk; ek;gpf;ifapd; nra;jpapd; njhlf;fkhFk;. ,e;j ek;gpf;if vt;thW ,aq;FfpwJ vd;gJ tuyhwhFk;. flTs; vg;NghJk; ntw;wp ngWfpwhu;. MrPut ; jpf;fg;gl;l fpwp];Jk]; tho;jJ ; f;fs;. midj;J cWg;gpdu;fs; kw;Wk; ELCM eyk; tpUk;gpfSf;F> xU kfpo;r;rpjUk; fpwp];Jk]; kw;Wk; MrPu;thjkhd Gj;jhz;L tho;j;Jf;fs;!

Rt. Rev. Dr. rhyNkhd; uh[h Nguhah; ,thQ;rypfy; Y}j;jud; Njthyak;> kNyrpah brk;gu; 2019

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20 ELCM XXXX Gallery 1-4 s 22 - 23 ELCM Photo ge DA Addres 5-6 as Messa Bishop’s Photo Gallery Christm 020 7 Bishop’s ry y; 2009-2 EDA 2019 Secreta l 8 ;gLj;Jj Editoria from Diocesan & tpupTg Treasurer Lj;Jjy; Message from Diocesan | ngyg;g Message 2009-2020 ding ELCM g & Expan Strengthenin

Editor-in-Chief

Rt. Rev. Dr. Solomon Rajah Bishop, ELCM

Editor Rev. Albert P. Abishegam Assistant Editor Rev. Steven Lawrence Sub-Assistant Editor Rev. Jeffrey Solomon Translator & Proof-Readers Rev. E. Joseph Bernandus Mrs. Elaine John Kalaimuthu

The Lutheran Herald is the official publication of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia (ELCM). For further information, please contact the ELCM as follows:

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia 21, Jalan Sultan Abdul Samad, Brickfields 50470 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

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As Christians in Malaysia and throughout the world prepare to celebrate Christmas 2019 in a meaningful way, the Lutheran Herald wishes to help out by sharing a few lessons derived from the crafty King Herod and the wise men that, the Herald believes, will bring about a new and profound meaning to our Christmas celebrations.

Scripture (Matthew 2: 3-9) tells us that it came to the ears of Herod that the wise men had come from the East and that they were searching for the little child who had been born to be King of the Jews. Any King would have been worried at the report that a child had been born who was to occupy his throne. But Herod was doubly disturbed.

Herod had one terrible flaw in his character. He was almost insanely suspicious.

He had always been suspicious, and the older he became the more suspicious he grew, until in his old age, he was, as someone said, “A murderous old man.”

If he suspected anyone as a rival to his power that man was promptly eliminated.

Herod summoned the religious aristocracy and the theological scholars of his day, and asked them where, according to the scriptures, the Anointed One of God should be born. They quoted the text in Micah 5:2 to him. Herod also sent the wise men and dispatched them to make diligent search for the little child who had been born. He said that he too wished to come and worship the child; but his one desire was to murder the child born to be king.

Now, what are the lessons we can learn from the above events which are a part of the Christmas narrative? Let us ponder on the following reactions of Herod and the wise men to the birth of Jesus Christ: i) There was the reaction of Herod, the reaction of hatred and hostility. Herod was afraid that this little child was going to interfere with his life, his place, his power, his influence, and therefore his first instinct was to destroy him.

What is the lesson here? There are still those today who would gladly destroy Jesus Christ because they see in him the one who interferes with their lives.

The man whose one desire is to do what he likes has never any use for Jesus Christ. The Christian is the person who has ceased to do what he likes and has dedicated his life to do as Christ likes. ii) Then there was the reaction of the wise men, the reaction of adoring worship, the desire to lay at the feet of Jesus Christ the noblest gifts which they could bring. The lesson? When we realize the love of God in Jesus Christ, we, too, should be lost in wonder, love and praise this Christmas season.

The Lutheran Herald Editorial Committee takes this opportunity to wish all Christians, especially members of the ELCM, A MEANINGFUL CHRISTMAS AND A BLESSED NEW YEAR! God bless you all.

REV. ALBERT P. ABISHEGAM Editor December 2019

Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020

Y}j;jud; n`uhy;l; $WfpwJ.....

VNuhJ kw;Wk; QhdpfsplkpUe;J fpwp];Jk]; ghlq;fs; kNyrpahtpYk; cynfq;fpYk; cs;s fpwp];jth;fs;; 2019 fpwp];ki] xU mu;j;jKs;s tpjj;jpy; nfhz;lhlj; jahuhfp tUifapy;> Y}j;jud; n`uhy;lhdJ> tQ;rfKs;s kd;du; VNuhjplkpUe;J ngwg;gl;l rpy gbg;gpidfisAk;> QhdpfsplkpUe;Jk; ngwg;gl;l rpy gbg;gpidfisAk; gfpu;e;Jnfhs;tjd; %yk; ek; fpwp];Jk]; nfhz;lhl;lq;fSf;F xU Gjpa kw;Wk; Mokhd mu;j;jj;ijg; nfhz;L tUk; vd ek;GfpwJ. Qhdpfs; fpof;fpypUe;J te;jpUf;fpwhu;fs; vd;Wk; A+ju;fspd; uh[hthfg; gpwe;j rpW Foe;ijiaj; NjLfpwhu;fs; vd;Wk; VNuhJ fhJf;F te;jjhf Ntjk; (kj;NjA 2:3-9) nrhy;fpwJ. jdJ rpk;khrdj;ij Mf;fpukpf;ff; $ba xU Foe;ij gpwe;jJ vd;w mwpf;if ve;j kd;didAk; ftiyg;gl itf;Fk;. Mdhy; VNuhJ ,ul;bg;ghf fyq;fpdhd;.

VNuhJ jdJ fjhghj;jpuj;jpy; xU gaq;fukhd Fiwghl;ilf; nfhz;bUe;jhu;. mtu; kpfTk; re;Njfj;jpw;Fupatu;. mtu; vg;NghJNk re;Njfj;jpw;Fupatuhf ,Ue;jhu;> mtu; re;Njfj;jpw;Fupatuhf tsu;e;jhu;> tajhFk;tiuapYk; ,J njhlh;e;jJ. mtuJ tajhd fhyj;jpy;> ahNuh nrhd;dJ Nghy;> “xU nfhiyfhu tajhd kdpju;” vd mwpag;gl;lhh;. mtu; jdJ rf;jpf;F Nghl;bahsuhf ahiuNaDk; re;Njfpj;jhy;> me;j kdpjd; cldbahf mfw;wg;gLthd;.

VNuhJ jdJ ehspd; kj gpuGj;Jtj;ijAk; ,iwapay; mwpQu;fisAk; tutioj;J> Ntjtrdq;fspd;gb> flTspd; mgpN\fk; nra;ag;gl;ltu; vq;Nf gpwf;f Ntz;Lk; vd;W mtu;fsplk; Nfl;lhu; . kPfh 5:2-y; cs;s trdj;ij mtuplk; Nkw;Nfhs; fhl;bdhu;fs;. VNuhJ Qhdpfis> gpwe;j rpW Foe;ijia tplhKaw;rpAld; Njl mDg;gpdhu;. mtUk; Foe;ijia te;J tzq;f tpUk;Gtjhf $wpdhu.;; Mdhy; mtuJ xNu Mir uh[hthf gpwe;j Foe;ijia nfhiy nra;tjhFk;. ,g;NghJ> fpwp];Jk]; nra;jpapd; xU gFjpahf ,Uf;Fk; Nkw;fz;l epfo;TfspypUe;J ehk; fw;Wf;nfhs;sf;$ba ghlq;fs; ahit? ,NaR fpwp];Jtpd; gpwg;Gf;F VNuhJ kw;Wk; Qhdpfspd; gpd;tUk; vjpu;tpidfisg; gw;wp rpe;jpf;fyhk;: i) VNuhJtpd; vjpu;tpid: ntWg;G kw;Wk; tpNuhjg; Nghf;F ,Ue;jJ. ,e;j rpW Foe;ij jdJ tho;f;if> ,lk;> rf;jp> nry;thf;F Mfpatw;wpy; jiyaplg; NghfpwJ vd;W VNuhJ gae;jhd;.

MfNt mtdJ Kjy; cs;Szu;T Foe;ijia mopg;gjhf ,Ue;jJ. .,q;Nf ghlk; vd;d? ,d;Wk; $l ,NaR jq;fs; tho;tpy; jiyapLfpwHH; vd epidg;gth;fs; mtiu mopf;f tpUk;Gthh;fs;. jdf;F tpUg;gkhdijr; nra;a Ntz;Lk; vd;w xNu Mir nfhz;l kdpjdhy; ,NaR fpwp];JTf;F xUNghJk; gadpy;iy. fpwp];jtu; vd;gth; jhd; tpUk;gpaijr; nra;tij epWj;jptpl;L> fpwp];J tpUk;gpagb nra;a jdJ tho;f;ifia mu;g;gzpj;jtu; Mthh;;. ii) ,uz;lhtJ> Qhdpfspd; vjpu;tpid: ,J Muhjpf;Fk; vjpu;tpid> ,NaR fpwp];Jtpd; fhybapy; itf;f tpUk;Gk; Mir> mtu;fs; nfhz;L tuf;$ba cd;djkhd gupRfs;. ghlk;? ,NaR fpwp];Jtpy; flTspd; md;ig ehk; czUk;NghJ> ehKk; ,e;j fpwp];Jk]; fhyj;jpy;; Mr;rupaj;jpYk;> md;gpYk;> GfopYk; ,of;fg;gl Ntz;Lk;.

Y}j;jud; n`uhy;L jiyaq;ff; FO midj;J fpwp];jtu;fisAk;> Fwpg;ghf ELCM ,d; cWg;gpdu;fSf;F> xU rpwe;j fpwp];Jk]; kw;Wk; xU Gjpa Mz;L tho;j;Jf;fisj; njuptpf;f ,e;j tha;g;igg; gad;gLj;JfpwJ! flTs; cq;fis Mrpu;tjpg;ghuhf. mUs;jpU. My;gh;l; gp. mgpN\fk;

Mrpupau; brk;gu; 2019 Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020

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CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM THE DIOCESAN SECRETARY

Purpose Of Jesus’ Birth & Twelve Witnesses Of Jesus’ Birth “... since this thing was not done in a corner” Acts 26:26

The Nativity story begins with an Angelic announcement within the temple’s Holy Place to a priest and it ends with the announcement of Herod’s evil designs upon the Christ child’s life.

While we celebrate Christmas every year, sometimes we forget the significance of the purpose of the birth of Jesus. We forget why Christ was born and some do not even see it as significant.

But when Jesus was born there was great significance concerning the purpose of His birth. We may note four primary reasons: 1. Redemption - God wanted to save mankind from their sins.

2. Revelation - God wanted to reveal Himself to us. Jesus was born to mend the relationship that was severed between mankind and God (Adam & Eve) and to reveal who God really is.

3. Mediation - Even today Jesus is the mediator between God and us (1 Timothy 2:5).

4. Empowerment - Jesus needed to be born and die in order for our sins to be forgiven and His ascension made way for the Holy Spirit to have permanent residency in us. By doing so, He comforts us, teaches us and empowers us.

Hence, we can understand the significance of the purpose of Jesus’ birth. The Apostle Paul said in Acts 26:26 to the noble Governor Festus that “....this thing (ministry of Christ) was not done in a corner.” Indeed, the witnesses of Jesus’ birth were many.

Matthew and Luke describe twelve witnesses to the Nativity. Although the individual testimonies of these witnesses are remarkable, the collective testimonies constitute a powerful witness of Christ’s birth as follows: Gabriel

The first New Testament witness as the messenger from God to the faithful Aaronic priest Zacharias, whose prayer was everlasting deliverance from enemies through the promised Messiah (Luke 1:11-20).

Zacharias

Father of John the Baptist who will “go before the face of the Lord to prepare His ways.” (Luke 1:76)

Elizabeth

Wife of Zacharias. Bore testimony of the divinity of Christ when she said to Mary, “Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb” (Luke 1:42)

Mary

Leaped for joy while in his mother’s womb when Elizabeth met Mary. (Luke 1:41)

Mary -

Found favour with God to give birth to Jesus. From Gabriel, she received the promise that she would conceive in her womb “the Son of the Highest” (Luke 1:32)

Joseph

His righteousness and reactions to Mary’s condition bear testimony to his belief in Christ’s divine sonship

The Shepherds

Angel of the Lord brought good tidings of great joy to the Shepherds of the birth of Jesus and they went to see the Baby Jesus. (Luke 2:16, 17)

The Heavenly Choir

Multitude of the heavenly host praising God. (Luke 2:13, 14)

Simeon

Received the promise of the Lord that he will not die until he had seen the Saviour (Luke 2: 29 to 32)

Anna

A prophetess who bore testimony of the Messiah in Jerusalem. (Luke 2:38)

Wise Men from the East

Wise men from the East came to see Jesus saying “Who is He who has been born King of East from the the Jews?” (Matt. 2:2)

Herod

King of Israel, who personified evil and wickedness. Herod, as Satan’s servant, sought to destroy and kill Baby Jesus (Matt. 2:16)

The above 12 witnesses confirmed the birth of Jesus. We are each called to be witnesses for Jesus, the Living God. Wishing everyone a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Blessed New Year.

Mr. Silas M. Das December 2019

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Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020

CHRISTMAS MESSAGE FROM THE DIOCESAN TREASURER

Immanuel - God With Us Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign: behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel. - Isaiah 7:14 Ahaz was King of Judah and news came to him that King Rezin of Syria and Pekah the King of Israel had set out to attack Jerusalem. So the hearts of King Ahaz and the people of Judah trembled with fear like a tree shaking in a storm. Then the Lord said to Prophet Isaiah, “Go out and meet King Ahaz and tell him to stop worrying and that he need not fear. This invasion will never happen; it will never take place”.

Then God offered to give King Ahaz a sign, not to just Ahaz but to all the people of Israel and Judah. The sign was that a virgin would conceive and bring forth a son, and this son would be “God with us”. The prophecy was fulfilled in the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. The birth of Jesus Christ was a miracle. Jesus the Messiah, as Immanuel, was and is the Saviour sent by the Father. Jesus is the “God with us.” He isn’t God who is far away, distant and unconcerned. Jesus became God with us when he was born into this world as a little baby. He is God and Man. Jesus is with us in salvation, the trials of life and the sorrows of life. On the first Christmas Eve, Jesus was born. Love was born on that first Christmas. God loves us so much that he gave his son to us. May your Christmas be great as ever, in the light of the Saviour’s love.

Wishing all ELCM members A BLESSED CHRISTMAS AND A BOUNTIFUL NEW YEAR! Candidate Peter Khar December 2019

Sights, Smells And Sounds Of

Christmas

The countdown has started. Preparations are underway to once again, as members, friends and families get together, to celebrate the birth of Christ. A host of activities will fill the Church’s calendar, families will get together with plans to decorate their homes, guest lists will be itemised and the menu is identified to fill the table and friends will toy with various plans to make Christmas, once again, a memorable moment in our lives. The birth of Christ is indeed the greatest joy that makes all homes and churches vibrant as we join together to proclaim that the salvation of man has come with the birth of Christ.

Our celebration, though it may vary in style in our homes yet they are unique every year. Certainly it has certain ‘smells, sights and sounds’ that will convey to our neighborhood that we are celebrating Christmas.

The beautiful decorations, the endless carols & music, the variety of food, the continuous flow of guests and the laughter of children & adults will contribute towards the SMELLS, SIGHTS AND SOUNDS of our celebration. Let it be a blessing to our neighborhood. In the story of the Rich Man and Lazarus, the man was dressed in purple and fine linen and lived in luxury every day and one could say, he was enjoying life. But his life of enjoyment did not reach or satisfy Lazarus, the poor beggar at his door step. None of the rich man’s superior life was a blessing to the poor and sick Lazarus. It wasn’t a crime to be rich but the crime was that the rich man’s blessings did not reach to Lazarus. As Lazarus lay covered with sores and longing to eat what fell from the rich man’s table, the SIGHTS, SMELLS & SOUNDS of the rich man’s privileged life did not reach to Lazarus. The rich man was insensitive and indifferent to the plight of Lazarus.

Let our celebrations be a blessing to the needy – the people who don’t have dignity or identity. Our simple acts of sharing will surely add a smile on their faces and to their daily lives. Our gesture of love and kindness towards the marginalised should reflect our joy. As our homes warm up to the festive season, remember our celebrations will be more worthy, meaningful and effective when we open our doors to the ‘Lazarus’ in our communities. Our celebrations will not be complete if we haven’t warmed up to the ones who struggle in their daily lives. It is not a crime to celebrate but it can become a crime when the needs of the needy are overlooked.

By the grace of God, we are once again able to celebrate Christmas. It’s not a customary duty but rather a privilege and blessing to celebrate. ‘The shepherds returned glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.’ This scripture reminds us that our unique celebration has to be contagious. It has to be shared to be relevant. Let the SMELLS, SOUNDS AND SIGHTS of our Christmas celebrations be complete when it is shared.

Rev. W. Babyington Southern District Pastor, 2019 Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020

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Extraordinary Diocesan Assembly (EDA) 9th November 2019 Lutheran Hall, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur

EDA PHOTO GALLERY

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Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020

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Klang, 15.06.2019 – Members of Taman Sentosa Lutheran Congregation during their Praise & Worship Seminar

Teluk Intan, 30.06.2019 – Members of Bethesda Lutheran Congregation during their visit to Sussex Old Folks Home

Petaling Jaya, 14.07.2019 – Children and Sunday School teachers of Good Shepherd Lutheran Congregation after their Children’s Sunday

Kulai, 14.07.2019 – Members of Kulai Lutheran Congregation during their Parents’ Day Celebrations

Johor Bahru, 03.08.2019 - Youth Fellowship of Our Saviour Lutheran Congregation during their outing to Daiman Bowling Centre

Tampin, 03.08.2019 – Charis Lutheran Outreach initiated a ministry in Tampin as part of their outreach work

Tapah, 10.08.2019 – Mr. & Mrs. Lingam during their baptism at Kuala Woh

Gopeng, 15-17.08.2019 - Juniors of Puchong Lutheran Congregation during the Junior Work National Camp at Camp Murni

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Penang, 18.08.2019 – Sunday School Children of Victory Lutheran Congregation during their VBS themed “Eagle’s Wings Flight 4031”

Kuala Lumpur, 25.08.2019 – Baptism of Caleb Timothy Jebapriyan at Zion Cathedral

Simpang Empat, 25.08.2019 - Youths of Bethany Lutheran Congregation after their Youth Sunday Service.

Bukit Mertajam, 31.08.2019 – Praise Kids Club of Bukit Mertajam Lutheran Congregation during their Merdeka Walk

Cheras, 08.09.2019 – Pastor William Patrick speaking to Cheras Lutheran Congregation members during their Worship Leading Seminar

Johor Bahru, 08.09.2019 - Men’s Fellowship of Our Saviour Lutheran Congregation visiting Calvary Home

Penang, 15.09.2019 – Winners of Victory Congregation’s Talent Time Competition 2019

Bukit Mertajam, 15.09.2019 - Bukit Mertajam Lutheran Congregation members during their Family Day gathering

Lutheran

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Cheras, 16.09.2019 - Rumah Chrestus and Cheras Lutheran Congregation members after their Blood Donation Campaign

Subang Jaya, 21.09.2019 - Holy Cross Women’s Fellowship after their Hi-Tea Fellowship at Holiday Villa

Kuala Lumpur, 22.09.2019 – Bishop and confirmands of Zion Lutheran Congregation after their Confirmation Service

Kuala Lumpur, 22.09.2019 – Zion Cathedral Junior Work members after their Junior Work Sunday

Teluk Intan, 22.09.2019 – Sunday School Children of Bethesda Lutheran Congregation during their Children’s Sunday

Kamunting, 28.09.2019 – Prayer Meeting in Mr. Paul Vethamany’s house - a part of Kamunting Lutheran Outreach Ministry

Klang, 28.09.2019 – Rev. Easupillay represented ELCM during the Program Karnival Tanglung Perpaduan Sejahtera Sentosa at Bandar Puteri

29.09.2019, Kuala Lumpur – Children and Sunday School teachers of Zion Lutheran Congregation after their Children’s Sunday

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Petaling Jaya, 29.09.2019 - Bishop and confirmands of Good Shepherd Lutheran Congregation after their Confirmation Service

Port Dickson, 29.09.2019 – Jevina Subhas was baptised at Resurrection Lutheran Congregation

Shah Alam, 05.10.2019 – Members of Sri Subang Lutheran Congregation during their visit to Ebenezer Home for the Elderly

Port Dickson, 05.10.2019 – Women’s Fellowship of Resurrection Lutheran Congregation organised a Free Health Screening & Blood Donation Campaign during their Medical Camp

Penang, 06.10.2019 – Pastor and members of Victory Lutheran Congregation during Auction after their Annual Thanksgiving Service

Simpang Empat, 06.10.2019 – Bishop with confirmands of Bethany Lutheran Congregation

Bukit Mertajam, 12.10.2019 - Bukit Mertajam Lutheran Congregation members raising funds to purchase a van through a Garage Sale

Gombak, 12.10.2019 - Women’s Fellowship of Good Shepherd Lutheran Congregation during their one-day Women’s Retreat at the Alangs

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Johor Bahru, 12.10.2019 – Pastors, Sunday School teachers and children of Our Saviour Lutheran Congregation after their World Children’s Day 2019 Service

Hutan Melintang, 13.10.2019 – Women of Holy Bethel Lutheran Congregation after their Thanksgiving Service

Petaling Jaya, 13.10.2019 - Sunday School children of Sri Subang Lutheran Congregation presenting a special song during their Annual Thanksgiving Service

Petaling Jaya, 18-19.10.2019 – Members of Holy Cross Lutheran Congregation at the Keswick Malaysia Convention at CCM

Port Dickson, 19.10.2019 - Members of Sri Subang Lutheran Congregation during their one - day Family Outing at Teluk Kemang

Matang, 29.09.2019 - Members of Matang Lutheran Congregation after their Annual Thanksgiving Service

Puchong, 20.10.2019 - Puchong Lutheran Congregation members after their Annual Thanksgiving Service

Melaka, 26.10.2019 - Members of Holy Cross Lutheran Congregation during their one-day Family Outing

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Taiping, 16.11.2019 – Matang Lutheran Congregation members singing Christmas carols during an ecumenical event

Seremban, 03.11.2019 – Baptism of Michelle Lavinia at Seremban Lutheran Congregation

Kuala Lumpur, 03.11.2019 – Baptism of Ezekial Gunasegaran at Zion Cathedral

Port Dickson, 08-10.11.2019 – Members of Meru Lutheran Congregation during their Family Retreat at Nube Training Centre

Kuala Lumpur, 10.11.2019 – Members of Wangsa Maju Lutheran Congregation during their Earth Sunday Observation

Kuala Lumpur, 10.11.2019 – Sunday School children of Wangsa Maju Lutheran Congregation displaying their Earth Sunday Observation drawings

Port Dickson, 16.11.2019 – Prem Deepam and Beulah Praveena after their wedding ceremony at Resurrection Lutheran Congregation

Gopeng, 23-25.11.2019 – Participants of Bethany Home’s 51st Handicap for Young Adults with Special Needs at Gua Kandu Eco Adventure

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56th DIOCESAN ASSEMBLY 2019

6th to 7th September 2019, at The Emperor Hotel, Melaka (1) May the Almighty and Everlasting God govern and sanctify this Assembly and mercifully grant us his grace to serve him in true faith through Jesus Christ.

In the name of the Father and of the (+) Son and of the Holy Spirit. Amen

(8) All these ten directives of our Diocesan Objective echo only one thing ... how do we apply our faith in Christ to our everyday life as a member of a family and also as a member of the ELCM. This is also called our values. Our Lutheran values.

(2) Dear delegates and fellow servants in Christ, a warm welcome to all of you to this 2019 Diocesan Assembly.

(9) Now, what are values? Popular secular understanding is “values are what we believe in.” But that is only half the truth. Since values are not only what we believe in but also what we exhibit, therefore, values are not about what one believes in but what a person decides to do.

For example, if a person does not speak anything and is just a silent person … you cannot tell what are the person’s values or judge the person’s character. So, our values are the reflection of what we decide to do.

(3) This will be my final Address to a Diocesan Assembly.

Next year is the beginning of a new triennium where the ELCM will see a new Bishop.

(4) For the last ten years, I have stood by our Diocesan Objective of “STRENGTHENING and EXPANDING” and have repeated it every year so that we can clarify our minds and move on with a sense of purpose.

(5) STRENGTHENING the Church means 1. Nurturing spiritual growth by understanding God’s love for us; 2. Building self-reliant projects as a way to becoming an integral part of the local community in which we subsist; 3. Training our clergy and laity so that they will provide the skills and leadership for our future generations; 4. Building close ties with any para-church organizations, migrant communities, and independent congregations we can reach out to; and 5. Building our capacity for growth and considering changing our ways that hinder mission work.

(6) EXPANDING the Church means, we 1. Build on our membership base; 2. Target and open new areas of ministry; 3. Streamline and coordinate the work of the existing auxiliary bodies; 4. Increase our diakonia ministries; and 5. Improve our revenue sources at local and diocesan levels.

(7) During the past nine Diocesan Assemblies, I have taken pains to explain one by one what Strengthening and Expanding means. There is no point for me to repeat them today. But I want to highlight some important aspects for the benefit of us all.

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(10) Christian values are like that too. Christians do not become good because we believe in being good but because we do good. If Christians do good things in life, it means the Kingdom of God will grow and prosper and it will bring us closer to him. However, it is essential that we do good things without any bargaining with God. For example, we should not bargain like this: “O God, I am doing this good, so please help me with this or that!” Instead we should thankfully say: “O God, I am doing this good as a sign of my gratitude for your abundant blessings in my life.”

(11) “My conscience is clear.” - We hear this phrase very often in our Church: “my conscience is clear.” In fact, in some Christian circles, it is thought that the conscience is the seat of God’s voice. But this proposition is not correct. The Apostle Paul tells that he had examined himself and that he is not conscious of any wrongdoing but it is the Lord who judges him (1 Corinthians 4:3-4), meaning the basis of his righteousness is not his conscience. Therefore, for good values to prevail, we must constantly be aware of our speech and deeds. Therefore, our conscience cannot be a yardstick to measure Christian values.

Our values must be guided by the Scriptures. We cannot say, “I believe in the Scriptures” and then do things contrary to the Scriptures. For example, how could we possibly say “Lord, forgive us our

Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020

trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us” if we cannot make peace with those who upset us. Our conscience must be a reflection of Christian values if we are to live in peace with one another.

(12) Wealth does not Validate Christian Values The Scriptures say that a man guards the city in vain if the Lord himself does not protect it (Psalm 127:1).As a result, in many churches there is this teaching that says that a man cannot be wealthy if the Lord himself did not bless him.

I tell you this is false teaching – a heresy called “prosperity gospel.”Let me explain: God in his wisdom has allowed rich and poor to co-exist.

God has endowed some poor to become rich and in the same way he has allowed some rich to become paupers. God allows the sun to rise and the rain to fall on the rich and the poor alike (Matthew 5:45). This is to say that who gets rich or who gets to be poor is not God’s business.

So, we have no business thinking that our wealth is evidence of God’s blessing that puts us on a higher moral ground. And therefore justifies our action and words. This is not a way to measure our values. The wealthy and the poor are both sinful by nature and it does not validate one’s action as a reflection of Christian values.

(13) Self-Righteousness does not make Christian Values

Everyone loves to be righteous in the eyes of the Lord. Did not the Psalmist say (Psalm 1:1-2) that “blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked, stand with the sinners or sit with the scoffers.” Such a man ponders on the Word of God but like what I have seen, he ponders deeply upon the faults of others so that he may look holier than others. This is a human vice – such a habit can quickly overcome us and make us bitter and scornful persons like Pharisees who hide their sins behind fronts of piety. This is a “secret conceit” in such people.It begins secretly and then it slowly blinds them. And then, one day, they suddenly find themselves transformed into clowns– dangerous clowns! Behind the soft speech and gentle smile hide craftiness and very often pettiness and yet the person is convinced

that this is true righteousness. Such a person is a pain in the Body of Christ, the Church.

(14) Three Important Things that Christian Values Foster There are three important signs of Christian values that Christians should know: (1) They are validated by Doctrines; (2) They foster Unity; and (3) They foster Obedience.

(15) Doctrines Validate Christian Values Brothers and sisters-in-Christ, very often we quote the Scriptures to justify what we do or what we refuse to do. I tell you that there is no wrong in believing that the Bible is the inerrant Word of God; inspired by the Holy Spirit, and fit for reproof and making decisions. However, there is a big problem: we human beings are not without error nor are we entirely clothed in wisdom to read the Scriptures in the right way.

Many of us read the Bible like a Sunday School child all our life. However, history tells us that the Bible has been used and abused to justify all sorts of misleading ideas and false teachings.

That is why we need doctrines. Doctrines help us to be discerning, restore our morality and guide our values in a collective way. When doctrines go wrong, we study the Scriptures and study the Church with fresh eyes to correct ourselves. If we cannot accept the doctrines of the Church, we leave the Church! So, whenever a person decides to do something and it creates a “doubt” in Christian values, he cannot merely defend himself by quoting the Scriptures but must defend his actions by doctrines. There are many things the Scriptures say that we may not understand fully. This is why we need to have doctrines to guide us. In our Lutheran Church, we are careful that we do not misinterpret the Bible by allowing anything that justifies our salvation or our relationship with God by works.

For example, it is doctrine that informs us that prayers do not heal anyone but it is God who heals! Doctrine tells us that we just cannot evangelize a single soul by our own efforts but God is the One who inspires us to evangelize! It is doctrine that teaches us that good deeds reflect good values that are rooted in Jesus Christ!

(16) Christian Values Foster Unity

I often hear our members ask the question “What has the Diocesan Council (DC) done for us?” If you know the history of the ELCM, then you will know that there is no DC that is not elected into office without you. DC is put in place to help us manage our ELCM, train and secure pastors and provide guidance in discipline and doctrines.

So, if we adopt a mentality to work against the DC, i.e. Congregation versus DC, it is not good and indicates a great degree of ignorance and a divisive spirit. Christian values do not foster division but unite us as one people. Unity, above

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all else, furthers the kingdom of God and builds the people of God. (17) Christian Values Foster Obedience The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia (ELCM) is an episcopal Church. The ELCM is run by a Bishop as the sole authority. He is not God and so the Diocesan Council (DC) is elected to assist him in his duties. For example, it is like running a ship in the open sea. A captain decides the direction and empowers the crew to do their duties and run the ship. If there is a mutiny against the captain, maritime law says that the mutineers must be hung or shot or cast away. The reason for this is that the sea is a dangerous place. Anything can happen and there is no help from outside. So, all people harmful to the operations of the ship must be dealt with. The Church is in a position that is no different from a ship sailing in the open sea. And the captain is the Bishop. We are often surrounded by hostilities. Jesus said that the day will come when you will be thrown out of the temple and people will consider killing you as a service to God! Nothing has changed even today – there are people out there who rejoice when Christians are killed.

If the actions of the members of the ELCM do not foster obedience, then they cannot be coming from Christians with good values. And the simpler the instruction, the harder it becomes. For example: I say, reconcile and make peace. But what happens?

Instead of obeying or asking how may I do that, I get petitions after petitions. You may see many reasons why this happens but I see many broken lives. Good values should foster obedience.

(18) Conclusion Dear friends, the last ten years had its good and difficult times for the diocese. But generally, it was a period of peace. However, we have not been healed completely – mistrust continues to plague us. Some of our old warlords still exist. As a result many times my hands were forced to make difficult decisions.

There were conflicts that I wish were resolved in different ways, but I still thank God for giving me the honour of serving the people of God. That is why I urge you to think about what sort of values we are upholding in the ELCM. We are not what we say; we are not what we think; we are what we do. You will know a person by his or her deeds.

Our actions alone reflect like a mirror of who we are and the Christian values we uphold.

(19) Dear delegates and fellow Pastors, this is my last DA Address.I want to thank all of you for the support you have extended to me over the last ten years. I thank all DA delegates of the different trienniums for your moral support throughout these ten years. I also thank the Diocesan Council of the different trienniums for the healthy working relationships throughout these ten years. Most importantly, I thank my fellow committed pastors, Church workers, well-wishers and volunteers for

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their untiring service to the diocese. Lastly, I thank my office staff for their dedication in carrying out their administrative duties in the Diocesan Office.

(20) I also take this opportunity to appeal to you to extend all your support for the new Bishop next year. Work with him and obey him. You may not agree with him always but honour his office and listen to him and be loyal to his office. Uphold him always in your prayers even as you pray for the good of the ELCM. (21) Dear Pastors, this is my advice to you … Obey your Bishop. Some of you have this false idea that “ordination is for life.” This is true only in one sense - it is “for life” at the absolute discretion of the Bishop. A Bishop will honour it as long as (1) Pastors keep to the Lutheran Confessions (Doctrines); (2) have not misappropriated Church money; and (3) have not been found to be insubordinate to their Bishop. If a Pastor cannot obey the Bishop, it is better for him to resign his job! At least, he may still be an ordained Pastor without an assignment.

Willful disobedience, however, means revocation of ordination. Personally, the episcopal ministry and integrity of the Church must be safeguarded at all cost because the Church is the Bride of Christ. Put all your efforts in learning the Lutheran doctrines, preaching and keeping the peace and harmony in the congregations – this is your calling and keep it as your goal in life. The numbers will be added to you because souls find rest, nurture, learning, and joy in worshipping together with you in your congregation where peace and harmony reign.

(22) To Lay-Members, this is my parting advice … work with your Bishop. Protect the good name of the ELCM. Be kind to one another, forgive one another and keep the peace. Work with your Pastors and build your congregations. Your Pastors are not supermen but human beings who have been called to preach the gospel and administer the sacraments among you. Be zealous for the Lord and learn to serve more and more. The Scriptures give us no other sign but only this to show you are Christians – the world will know that you are followers of Jesus Christ by the unity among yourselves.

May the Lord continue to bless our ELCM! Rt. Rev. Dr. Solomon Rajah Bishop Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia 6th September 2019

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NOTICE TO ALL ELCM MEMBERS! MR. SAMUEL ANBUNATHAN – EXPULSION AS MEMBER OF THE ELCM IN ADDITION TO WITHDRAWAL OF ASSIGNMENT, TERMINATION OF SERVICE AND REVOCATION OF ORDINATION All members of the ELCM are hereby informed that the Diocesan Assembly at its meeting held on the 6th and 7th of September, 2019 at Malacca had unanimously recommended the expulsion of Mr. Samuel Anbunathan as a member of the ELCM. With this expulsion, Mr. Samuel Anbunathan has no authority and/or business to interfere or comment in any way on any matter or activity in any congregation and/or in any Diocesan matter.

Further, Mr. Samuel Anbunathan has been revoked of his ordination as a Lutheran Pastor of the ELCM with effect from the 22nd of January, 2019. Simultaneously, his status as Pastor-in-Charge of the Kluang Lutheran Church Group has been withdrawn.

Please also take note that the “MY Ekklesia” group led by Mr. Samuel Anbunathan and his team which is misleading and dividing the ELCM is not a legal body recognized by the ELCM and is, therefore, not part of our Church. ELCM members are, therefore, advised to stay away from all the group’s activities All ELCM congregations are hereby requested to make announcements on the above matter during their Divine Worship Services.

midj;J ELCM rig mq;fj;jpdu;fSf;F Xu; mwptpg;G! எல் லா ம.�.�.�. அங் கத்�னர்க�க்� ெதரி�க்கப் ப�� என் னெவன் றால் கடந்த ஒன் பதாம் மாதம் 6 மற் �ம் 7 �க�களில் மலாக்கா�ல் நடந்த Diocesan Assembly�ல் �� சா�ேவல் அன் �நாதன் அவைர ம.�.�.�.-�ல் இ�ந்� ெவளிேயற் ற �ன் ெமா�ந்� ஏகமனதாய் ெவளிேயற் ற �ர்மானிக்கப் பட்ட�. ம.�.�.�. �ல் இ�ந்� ெவளிேயற் றப் பட்ட �� சா�ேவல் அன் �நாதன் அவர்கள் இனிேமல் எந்த சைப�ன் நடவ�க்ைக��ம் மற் �ம் Diocesan காரியத்��ம் \ �ஷயத்��ம் தைல�டேவா அல் ல� க�த்�ச் ெசால் லேவா அவ�க்� எந்த �த அ�கார�ம் ெபா�ப் �ம் �ைடயா�. ேம�ம் , �� சா�ேவல் அன் �நாதன் அவர்கள் ஜனவரி 22ஆம் �க� 2019 ெதாடங் � அவ�க்� ெகா�க்கப் பட்ட ம.�.�.�. ேபாதகர் ெபா�ப் � மற் �ம் பட்டம் பரிக்கப் பட்ட�. இதைன ெதாடர்ந்� ��வாங் �த்தரன் �ரநகர் ைமயத்�ல் (Kluang Lutheran Church Group) இ�ந்� தற் கா�க ேபாதகர் ெபா�ப் �ம் அவரிடம் இ�ந்� �லக்கப் ப��ற�. நாம் க�த்�ல் ெகாள் ளேவண்�ய� என் னெவன் றால் �� சா�ேவல் அன் �நாத�ம் அவ�ைடய அைமப் �ம் ேசர்ந்� நடத்�ம் ைம எக்���யா (MY EKKLESIA) என் ற ���ன் ேநாக்கம் �ரி�ைனகைள�ம் தவறான க�த்�கைள�ம் ப�மாற் �வதா�ம் . அவ் வைமப் � சைபைய ேசர்ந்த அல் ல� ஒன் �ைனக்கப் பட்ட அைமப் ேபா �ைடயா�. ம.�.�.�. அங் கத்�னர்கள் இவ் வைமப் �ன் நடவ�க்ைகளில் இ�ந்� �ல� இ�க்�ம் ப�யாக அ��ைர ெசால் லப் ப��றத. எல் லா ம.�.�.�. �ம் பரி�த்த ஞா�� ஆராதைன�ல் ெசய் யேவண்�ம் என் � ேகட்�க்ெகாள் ளப் ப��ற�.

இக்காரியத்ைத பற் � அ��ப் �

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BRIEF REPORT ON th

56 DIOCESAN ASSEMBLY 2019 6th to 7th September 2019, at The Emperor Hotel, Melaka

T

he 56th Diocesan Assembly (DA) began on Friday the 6th of September 2019 at the Emperor Hotel, Melaka. The DA concluded the next day, Saturday the 7th of September 2019.

confirmed. The DA then proceeded to approve the resolutions passed at the 2018 Assembly. The Assembly adjourned for tea and a photo-session at 4.15pm.

The Assembly, ably chaired by Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah, proved to be a fruitful and productive gathering of delegates to the glory of God. A total of 77 delegates (27 clergy and 50 laity) participated in this DA.

2. Session 2 Session 2 commenced at 4.45pm with the Bishop’s Address.

The 56th Diocesan Assembly began with a Holy Communion Service. Rev. Sritharan Gunasekaran led the Praise and Worship session. The message based on 1 Corinthians 11:23–26 was delivered by Rev. John Kalaimuthu. The Holy Communion was celebrated

by Rev. Jeffrey Solomon and assisted by Rev. John Kalaimuthu. The offertory taken was donated to Rumah Chrestus.

1. Session 1 Session 1 began with the Bishop welcoming all the delegates.

The Diocesan Secretary, Mr. Silas M. Das, then proceeded to carry out the roll-call. A quorum was declared with 27 clergy and 50 laity in attendance.

The Bishop then officially declared open the 56th Diocesan Assembly of the ELCM. He thanked and welcomed the delegates for taking time off from their busy schedules to attend the Assembly.

2 Recording Secretaries, 4 Polling Officers and 3 Business Committee Members were then appointed on the recommendation of the Diocesan Council.

The amended Arbitration Panel was unanimously

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Bishop noted that the following year 2020 would be the beginning of a new triennium where the ELCM would be seeing a new Bishop. Bishop, in his address, highlighted his objectives of “Strengthening and Expanding” the ELCM. These were also the diocesan objectives. Bishop explained about Christian values which will reveal our God to others. He emphasized that Christian values be validated through 3 aspects, namely doctrines, unity and obedience. The Bishop’s Address was well received by the Assembly. Please read the full text of Bishop’s Address which appears elsewhere in this edition.

3. Session 3 The Annual Report of the Diocesan Council for year 2018 was presented by the Diocesan Secretary.

He pointed out the strengths and weaknesses of ELCM Congregations including congregations’ noncompliance to Article 8.1, submission of minutes, submission of returns to ROS, submission of LC accounts as well as comparing the difference in total full membership for the years 2017 and 2018. The Diocesan Secretary also stated that the Diocesan Council had taken a 3-step approach as follows to solve the deficit of RM20,000.00 per month:

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Step 1 - Discuss with and meet all congregations to pay 40% of their Gross Average Monthly Income first to the Diocesan Treasury.

Step 2 - As a follow-up to Step 1, to review,

by April 2020, with all those congregations affected by Article 8.1 by April 2020 to gauge what progress they have made to comply with Article 8.1 and bring to their attention the serious consequences if they do not comply.

Step 3 - The deadline set by the Diocesan Council is 31st December, 2020 wherein the Diocesan Council will have to make hard decisions on all those congregations which are not able to comply with Article 8.1.

The Diocesan Report was well received by the Assembly. A resolution was then proposed that Mr. Samuel Anbunathan be expelled as a member of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia (ELCM). The Assembly voted by a show of hands in favour of the resolution to be adopted. The Assembly adjourned for dinner at 7.30pm. Rev. Paul Raj closed the firstday assembly with prayer.

4. Session 4 (2nd Day) After the morning devotion led by Rev. Caleb Santhosam, the Diocesan Secretary conducted the rollcall. A quorum was declared when it was confirmed that 26 clergy and 52 laity were present.The election of one

lady candidate for the post of the Diocesan Council Ordinary Council Member was then held. Mrs. Daisy Kalpana was duly declared the new Diocesan Council Ordinary Council Member.

5. Session 5 The Diocesan Treasurer then presented the draft Annual Accounts of the ELCM for 2018. After a discussion, it was agreed that the Annual Accounts for 2018 be resubmitted during the forthcoming EDA in November 2019. The budget for 2020 presented by the Diocesan Treasurer, Candidate Peter Khar was then unanimously accepted.

6. Session 6 The Business Committee Report as presented by the Chairman, Rev. Steven Lawrence was unanimously approved by the DA after the inclusion of a resolution to thank the late Deacon Jerker. The 56th Diocesan Assembly was brought to a close with a standing ovation for the Bishop in appreciation of his hard work and leadership over the past 10 years. The Bishop acknowledged and thanked the Assembly for their support. The Bishop closed the 56th Diocesan Assembly at 1.00pm with a prayer.

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MAIN PROGRAMME FOR 2020

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5th January 2020

Zion Cathedral, Kuala Lumpur

Holy Communion Service

9.00 am

7th – 9th January 2020

CCM Heads of Churches Retreat, Kuala Terengganu

Retreat

19th January 2020

Bethesda Lutheran Congregation, Teluk Intan

Confirmation Service

9.00 am

30th January 2020

STM Council Meeting , Kuala Lumpur

Meeting, Wisma Methodist

12.00 pm 2.00 pm

1st February 2020

Holy Trinity Lutheran Congregation, Teluk Intan

Anniversary Service

6.00 pm

9th February 2020

Holy Cross Lutheran Congregation

Ordination Service

9.00 am

11th – 15th February 2020

ELCM Family Counselling Centre, Brickfields

Seminar on Pentecostalism (For Pastors)

25th February 2020

STM EXCO Meeting, Petaling Jaya

Meeting, CCM Ecumenical Centre

11.00 am

15st March 2020

Victory Lutheran Congregation, Penang

Confirmation Service

9.00 am

19th March 2020

CCM Board Management, Petaling Jaya

Meeting CCM Conference Room

9.30 am

9th April 2020

Maundy Thursday

Service, Kuala Lumpur

7.00 pm

10th April 2020

Good Friday Service

Zion Cathedral, Kuala Lumpur

12.00 Noon

12th April 2020

Easter Service, Good Hope Congregation

Confirmation, Petaling Jaya

9.00 am

21st – 25th April 2020

ELCM Family Counselling Centre, Brickfields

Seminar on Luther’s Small Catechism (For Pastors)

29th April 2020

STM Council Meeting STM AGM

Meetings STM Campus, Seremban

2.00 pm 4.30 pm

23rd July 2020

STM EXCO Meeting, Petaling Jaya

Meeting, CCM Ecumenical Centre

11.00 am

22nd August 2020

DC Meeting

Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

12th September 2020

DC Meeting

Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

18th & 19th September 2020

Diocesan Assembly (Triennium)

24th September 2020

CCM Board of Management

CCM Ecumenical Centre, PJ

9.30 am

6th October 2020

STM Council Meeting

14th November 2020

DC Meeting

Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

9th November 2020

STM EXCO Meeting

CCM Ecumenical Centre, PJ

11.00 am

12th December 2020

DC Meeting

Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

31st December 2020

Bishop’s Service

Zion Cathedral, Kuala Lumpur

11.30 pm

2.00 pm

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MAIN PROGRAMME FOR 2020

DIOCESAN COUNCIL MEETINGS - 2020 11th January 2020

DC Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

22nd February 2020

DC Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

21st March 2020

DC Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

18th April 2020

DC Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

16th May 2020

DC Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

20th June 2020

DC Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

18th July 2020

DC Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

22nd August 2020

DC Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

12th September 2020

DC Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

DC Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

21st November 2020

DC Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

12th December 2020

DC Meeting, Diocesan Conference Room

10.30 am

17th October 2020

District Pastors for 2020

The following Pastors have been appointed as District Pastors for 2020

Rev. Paul Simoni Northern District H/P: 016-5143004

Rev. Balan Moses Central District H/P: 012-3183414

Rev. Gnanadas

Southern District H/P: 016-7043037

Please remember the above-mentioned Pastors in your prayers as they assume leadership in their respective districts in the new year.

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ELCM Events / News Updates WOMEN’S CONFERENCE 2019

RUMAH LUTHER RIA’S “COMMUNITY INCLUSION PROGRAMME (CIP)” 2019

The Women’s Conference, organised by the Diocesan Women’s Committee and themed “Stir up your Spiritual Gifts” was a great success. 93 women from the various ELCM congregations attended the conference which was held from the 10th to the 12th of August 2019 at the Bukit Merah Laketown Resort, Taiping, Perak. Pastor Priscilla was the guest speaker at this conference.

The Rumah Luther Ria Management Committee launched a successful awareness campaign named “Community Inclusion Programme” (CIP) on Saturday, 2nd of November, 2019 at its premises in Port Dickson, Negeri Sembilan. About 100-150 people participated in this programme.

DIOCESAN JUNIOR WORK NATIONAL CAMP 2019

Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah was the guest - of - honour at the Diocesan Junior Work National Camp which was held at Camp Murni, Gopeng, Perak from the 15th to the 17th of August 2019. 147 Juniors between the ages of 9 and 17 participated in the camp.

FUND RAISING STREET PARTY IN BENEFIT OF RUMAH HOPE AND GOOD HOPE LUTHERAN CONGREGATION

REV. STEVEN LAWRENCE ELECTED AS 5TH BISHOP OF ELCM Rev. Steven Lawrence was elected as the 5th Bishop of the ELCM at the Extraordinary Diocesan Assembly (EDA) held on Saturday, the 9th of November, 2019 in the Lutheran Hall, Diocesan Compound, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur. Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah together with all members of the ELCM convey their heartiest congratulations to Rev. Steven Lawrence on his election. Rev. Steven Lawrence will be the Bishop-Elect until his consecration as Bishop. May God bless Rev. Steven Lawrence richly according to His abundantly love and grace as he faithfully endeavours to serve the ELCM as our 5th Bishop of ELCM. LWF ASIA CHURCH LEADERSHIP CONFERENCE 2019 AT NORTH SUMATRA, INDONESIA

Rumah Hope, Petaling Jaya and Good Hope Lutheran Congregation, Petaling Jaya jointly organised a successful fund-raising street party at Zion Compound on the 12th of October 2019. The event was well received and supported by Church members and the community at large.

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Mrs. Latha Joseph of Zion Cathedral and Candidate Peter Khar attended the LWF Asia Church Leadership Conference 2019 at Permatang Siantar, North Sumatera, Indonesia which was held on the 2nd to 8th October 2019 .

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WOMEN’S MEETING AT SIMPANG EMPAT, HUTAN MELINTANG, PERAK

Rev. Ebenezer Irai Amirtham of Arcot Lutheran Church, India was the guest speaker at the Women’s Meeting themed “Women & Leadership” held on the 25th November 2019. The event, organised by the Hilir Perak Pastors’ Fellowship was attended by 100 women.

ZION LUTHERAN CATHEDRAL 95TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATIONS & CONFIRMATION SERVICE PLUS OPENING CEREMONY OF “PLACE OF HOPE” The Zion Lutheran Cathedral 95th Anniversary Celebrations & Confirmation Service was held at 5.00pm on the 30th November 2019 at the Zion Cathedral, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur. Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah conducted the said service which was followed by dinner at the Lutheran Hall. Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah also, on the same day, officiated at the opening ceremony of the “PLACE OF HOPE”.

The “PLACE OF HOPE” features an 18 foot cross erected by the Zion Cathedral Congregation.

PUNJABI CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP (PCF)

The PCF, an associate member of the ELCM, had the privilege of hosting Pastor Anil from Kerala, India during the month of November, 2019. Pastor Anil was the guest speaker at the PCF’s Divine Worship Service on the 24th of November 2019.

SEMINAR ON “ISSUES OF PENTECOSTALISM” A seminar for all ELCM Pastors on the subject “ISSUES OF PENTECOSTALISM” will be held at the ELCM Family Counselling Centre from 11th to 15th February 2020.

The LCA International Mission of Lutheran Church of Australia is sending Rev. Dr. Michael Lockwood to teach and enlighten our clergy on this issue.

SEMINAR ON LUTHER’S SMALL CATECHISM, ELCM FAMILY COUNSELLING CENTRE, BRICKFIELDS, 21ST TO 25TH APRIL 2020 The above seminar on LUTHER’S SMALL CATECHISM is being organised for ELCM Pastors. The said seminar will be held as above. A Pastor from the Lutheran Church of Australia (LCA) will be conducting the seminar.

Our Condolences...

Deacon Jerker Sandegard passed away peacefully in Sweden on 25.8.2019 at the age of 82. Deacon Jerker was an ordained Deacon with the Church of Sweden and served in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia for many years, pioneering the Junior Work ministry in the ELCM. Deacon Jerker was the first Junior Work Secretary who initiated the ministry in the ELCM in 1966. Many who had joined the Junior Work ministry, including Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah, are now faithful members of the Church. The funeral service was held at the Heda Church, Odeshog, Sweden followed by burial. We thank God for his invaluable contributions to the ELCM which resulted in many non-Christian children accepting Jesus Christ as their Lord and Saviour. The Lutheran Herald expresses its heartfelt condolences to his wife, Margareta, other members of his family and friends. May his legacy continue to be remembered in our Church.

Madam Sahuthumary of Cheras Lutheran Congregation, Cheras passed away peacefully on the 8.9.2019 at the age of 77. The funeral service was held on 9.9.2019 at Cheras Lutheran Congregation, Selangor followed by cremation at Cheras Crematorium, Cheras. She leaves behind sons, daughters, grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends to mourn her loss. We thank God for her life and express our heartfelt condolences to her family and friends.

Mr. Jesadian Pall of Holy Cross Lutheran Congregation, Port Klang, Selangor passed away peacefully on 27.10.2019 at the age of 55. The funeral service was held on 28.10.2019 at Holy Cross Lutheran Congregation followed by burial at Meru Christian Cemetery, Meru. He leaves behind his beloved wife, children, grandchildren and a host of relatives and friends to mourn his loss. We thank God for his life and express our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.

Mr. D. William of Victory Lutheran Congregation, Island Glades, Penang passed away peacefully on 28.8.2019 at the age of 81. The funeral service was held on 31.8.2019 at Victory Lutheran Congregation, Island Glades followed by cremation at Batu Gantung Crematorium, Penang.

He served in the local council of Victory Lutheran Congregation for several years. He leaves behind his beloved wife, sons and daugthers-in-law and a host of relatives and friends to mourn his loss. We thank God for his life and express our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.

Mr. Rajoo of Bukit Mertajam Lutheran Congregation passed away peacefully on 25.10.2019 at the age of 67. The funeral service was held on Saturday, 26.10.2019 at Bukit Mertajam Lutheran Congregation followed by cremation at Berapit Crematorium, Bukit Mertajam. We thank God for his life and express our heartfelt condolences to his family and friends.

Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020

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ELCM PROGRAMME FOR 2020 Date

In-Charge

Pastors’ Seminar: Issues of Pentecostalism (Lecturer: Dr. Michael Lockwood, Lutheran Church of Australia, LCA)

Bishop’s Office

21st – 25th April 2020

Pastors’ Seminar on Luther’s Small Catechism: Guest speaker from (Lutheran Church of Australia, LCA)

Bishop’s Office

21st July 2020

Pastors’ Conference (Reporting 2019 & Planning 2021)

Bishop’s Office

18th – 19th September 2020

57th Diocesan Assembly (Triennium Year)

Bishop’s Office

20th – 21st March 2020

Group Leaders and Assistant Group Leaders Training Course

th

Diocesan

Junior

Women

Event

11 – 15 February 2020 th

30th – 31st July & 1st August 2020

Basic & Advanced Leaders Training Course

24th – 26th April 2020

Southern Women’s Retreat 2020

5th – 7th June 2020

Northern Women’s Retreat 2020

Diocesan Junior Work Committee

Diocesan Women’s Committee

(Dates and Venue to be confirmed later) Central District One Day Programme 2020

29th – 31st May 2020

Vacation Bible School

26th September 2020

National Bible Quiz

29th February 2020

Youth Lent Reflection

27th June 2020

Young Adults One Day Retreat

29th – 31st August 2020

National Youth Camp

March 2020

One day trip City Tour (National Level)

SUNDAY SCHOOL

Youth

Senior Citizen August 2020

Organise Health Talk (Place & Dates will be confirmed later) (District Level)

Diocesan Sunday School Committee

Diocesan Youth Committee

Diocesan Senior Citizen Fellowship

North 8th February 2020

Family Day / Sports Carnival

7 May 2020

Men’s Programme (Pangkor)

31 July 2020

Local Council Retreat (Gopeng or Taiping)

16th September 2020

(Bible Quiz – 18 & Above)

th

st

DISTRICT PROGRAMMES FOR 2020

Northern District Pastors

Central 1st May 2020

Central District Fund Raising Carnival

1st August 2020

ELCM Central District Sports Day

29 November 2020

Candle Light Fellowship

th

Central District Pastors

South

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7th – 8th February 2020

Pastors and Local Council Retreat (Melaka)

18th April 2020

Easter Celebration

10th – 11th October 2020

Bible Quiz

Strengthening & Expanding ELCM 2009-2020 | ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020

Southern District Pastors