Methodist Message: Dec 2024

Rounding up the quadrennium: Bishop Dr Gordon Wong's final message and Annual Conference Presidents' farewell messages Celebrating Christmas in a violent world Vol 126 No 12 DECEMBER 2024

Grandpa’s Greatest Gift

MCI (P) 008/11/2024

A Christmas Story

Contents

Editorial Board

/ Bishop’s Message /

Adviser and Publisher Dr Anthony Goh Chairperson, Council on Communications

/ News /

Communications Manager

3 Presidents' farewell messages

Lynn Tan

6 Bishop appoints new ACS Board of Governors Chairperson

Managing Editor Alvin Tay

Editor

/ Feature /

Lianne Ong

7 Methodist Social Principles:

Communications Executive

The Bible doesn't talk about global warming

Kathrynn Koh

and recycling, so what should we do?

Sub-editors

15 Grandpa’s Greatest Gift

Lucy Cheng Janice Khoo Tan Chiu Ai Elliot Soh

/ Opinion / 11 Soundings: Celebrating Christmas in a violent world

Proofreaders Kenneth Lee Christabel Tan

/ Worship / 13 From crib to cross: Love came down, love so amazing

/ Outreach / 23 Outgoing MMS leaders contemplate succession and continuity

The official monthly publication of The Methodist Church in Singapore. Published material does not necessarily reflect the official view of The Methodist Church. All Scripture quoted is based on the English Standard Version unless otherwise stated.

26 "I wanted to jump off the highest building in Singapore …"

–The mental health toll of caregiving

/ Relationships / 30 At The Well

70 Barker Road #06-04 Singapore 309936

34 You & Your Family: Mind your neighbours

6478-4793 | 6478-4763 methodist.org.sg/message www.methodist.org.sg

/ People /

communications@methodist. org.sg

37 The phone call that saved me

fb.com/Methodist.SG @methodist.sg @methodistsg

Rounding up the quadrennium: Bishop Dr Gordon Wong's final message and Annual Conference Presidents' farewell messages Celebrating Christmas in a violent world Vol 126 No 12 DECEMBER 2024

Grandpa’s Greatest Gift

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A Christmas Story

MCI (P) 008/11/2024

communications@methodist.org.sg Layout by Londonbob Design Printed by Xpress Print Pte Ltd

ON THE COVER The cover art is from this month's Christmas story, Grandpa's Greatest Gift. The story is written by Amelia Leo and illustrated by Nicholas Liem.

Amelia, a member of Fairfield Methodist Church, is also the Acting Head (Community Music) at Methodist School of Music. Nicholas, a children's book illustrator, serves in his church's children's ministry in Singapore.

A practical principle on loving our neighbours For the entire law is fulfilled in keeping this one command:

"Love your neighbour as yourself." ~ Galatians 5:14 (NIV)

T

he above statement by Paul the apostle

No, Jesus was not proposing a priority of self

seems different to what Jesus said was

before others. He was providing a practical

the greatest commandment in the entire

principle on how to love our neighbours.

law—to love God with all our heart—in Matthew 22:37-38.

It is the same principle that Jesus had articulated earlier as another way of

But in the very next sentence Jesus explains

summarising what all the law and the

what such whole-hearted love for God

prophets in Scripture had said: "So in

would mean in practical terms: Love your

everything, do to others what you would

neighbour as yourself (Matthew 22:39 NIV).

have them do to you, for this sums up the Law and the Prophets (Matthew 7:12 NIV)."

So was the apostle Paul not wrong to quote the second (rather than the first)

The practical principle is to ask how we wish

command that Jesus highlighted as the

other people would relate to us in all life's

greatest in God's law?

different situations: the tone and manner in which they speak to us, the kindness and

Yes, Paul correctly understood the Lord

respect which they show us, and the help

Jesus. Jesus did not say that the second

and encouragement they offer to us.

command (to love our neighbour) was less important than the first command

To love our neighbour as we love ourselves

(to love God). Jesus said that the second

is to treat them not in the way they might

command was "just like the first".

actually treat us, but in the way we wish they would treat us! This is God's greatest

But what did Jesus, and Paul, mean by

command in all Scripture.

loving others "as yourself"? Did they mean we should give priority to loving ourselves

Let us love God with all our heart by loving

before we can think of loving others? Isn't

our neighbours as ourselves, always treating

this somewhat selfish?

them in the ways we wish they would treat us.

December 2024 Methodist Message 1

The Methodist Festival Choir Wong Lai Foon, Resident Conductor

Featuring Guest Conductor, Dr Michael Burkhardt, Artist-Professor of Organ at Eastern Michigan University, USA with the Methodist Festival Orchestra

Let heaven and nature

Sing

Wednesday, 11 December 8pm Wesley Methodist Church

Nearest MRT Station: Dhoby Ghaut

Come celebrate Christmas together! Joining the Methodist Festival Choir will be a children’s choir, a 40-member Methodist Festival Orchestra and a contemporary band. Bring your family and friends for a joyous evening of music and celebration, featuring favourites like "Joy to the World", "O Come All Ye Faithful", and "Deck the Halls".

News

messages

Presidents’ farewell

The three Annual Conference Presidents stepped down in November 2024. These are their farewell messages penned just before the 49th Sessions of their respective Annual Conferences. Rev Dr Gregory Goh, Rev Philip Abraham and Rev Stanley Chua will return to pastoral duties in the new quadrennium.

Let go of the past and approach each new day with courage to start afresh Rev Dr Gregory Goh President, Chinese Annual Conference (2017-2024)

I

n Philippians 3:12-14 (NIV), Paul tells us, "Not

waiting for us. Do not let the past successes

that I have already obtained all this, or

and failures slow us down or hinder us from

have already arrived at my goal, but I press

moving forward.

on to take hold of that for which Christ Jesus took hold of me… forgetting what is behind

I thank CAC for trusting me and giving me

and straining toward what is ahead, I press

this immense responsibility and privilege

on toward the goal to win the prize for which

for the past two quadrennia. It has been

God has called me heavenward in Christ

my duty and joy to serve God and the

Jesus." These three verses anchored me in

Conference as President. I have always

serving and leading CAC.

sought to discharge the responsibilities of this solemn office entrusted to me for one

In these words, Paul gives us a powerful

purpose: to serve the Lord by advancing the

invitation—not only to let go of the past but

Great Commission.

to approach each new day with the courage to start afresh, focused entirely on the goal

May we all strain towards what is ahead,

God has set before us. We must always

press on towards the goal our Heavenly

be striving, knowing that there is a prize

Father has prepared for us.

December 2024 Methodist Message 3

Presidents’ farewell messages

Our faithful God helped us overcome numerous challenges Rev Philip Abraham President, Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference (2021-2024)

I

praise God for the God-given privilege of serving as ETAC President. I never

imagined this path, but it has been a humbling and blessed opportunity to serve

addition, we have two students currently

our great King and his people. My journey

studying in theological colleges. I give God

began with the assurance of God's promise

all the praise for his faithfulness in helping us

in Psalm 32:8, "I will instruct you and teach

with our pastoral supply.

you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my eye upon you."

Our ETAC Executive Board and churches have been pillars of support, enabling us to

Guided by this hope and promise, I was

progress our ministries and mission. I've had

able to lead by God's grace. My two

the joy of visiting each ETAC church, meeting

priorities were the growth of ETAC and the

with LCEC members and congregants, and

recruitment of new pastors.

participating in their Sunday services. These experiences brought joy and strengthened

However, the Covid-19 pandemic was

our shared bond in Christ.

a challenge and at the start of the quadrennium we were still navigating the

Working alongside Bishop Dr Gordon

effects of the pandemic. On 24 January 2021,

Wong, CAC President Rev Dr Gregory Goh

our traditional ETAC Thanksgiving Sunday

and TRAC President Rev Stanley Chua

had to be celebrated with a video-recorded

was another blessed opportunity. Their

sermon. It was on this day that I introduced

friendship, unity and wise counsel uplifted

our ETAC quadrennium theme: "Towards

me greatly. Together as One MCS, we upheld

Harvest 2024". The target was to reach 1,000

one another in ministry. Attending the Asian

members in total in 2024, and I know our

Methodist Council in South Korea and Hong

congregations are working diligently to reach

Kong, and the World Methodist Council in

it. Our Lord is the Master of the harvest.

Sweden were experiences that broadened my vision and enriched my ministry.

In addition to growth, recruiting new pastors was on my heart. I prayed earnestly

I am profoundly grateful for these years of

for at least two new pastors, trusting God's

service, and all praise belongs to God alone

provision. Amazingly, we were blessed with

for his unending guidance, grace and mercy.

four new recruits over these four years. In

To God be all the glory!

4 Methodist Message December 2024

A grateful farewell Rev Stanley Chua President, Trinity Annual Conference (2021-2024)

A

s I stand at the threshold of concluding my term as President, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude and humility.

This journey has been an extraordinary tapestry of challenges, growth, triumphs and trust in God. When I began my term as President, I was deeply convicted on recovering our Wesleyan heritage, inspired by the words of John Wesley when he prophetically warned all Methodists just five years before he died: "I am not afraid that the people called

On a personal note, this term has been a period of immense growth for me. The opportunities to be stretched, to step out of my comfort zone and to tackle unprecedented challenges have been invaluable. Each obstacle was a lesson in resilience, humility and trust in God; I experienced firsthand God's grace working through my weaknesses.

Works of John Wesley, Vol.13

As I prepare to pass the baton to my successor, I do so with a heart full of hope and confidence believing that God has chosen him to lead TRAC for the next four years. I pray that TRAC will continue to be guided by faith, be inspired by challenges and united in our commitment to serve one another and to serve our Lord faithfully and wholeheartedly.

With this conviction, I proposed to TRAC the following quadrennium theme and direction: "Remember Who We Are: Recovering our Methodist Heritage of Doctrine, Spirit & Discipline". The hope was simple: by relearning our past, our past could instruct us on what to do in the present.

Working through our theme, we managed to recover from our Wesleyan heritage some practical proposals and ideas to apply to our challenges in this quadrennium regarding our shortage of pastors, losing our youths in our churches and an ageing congregation.

Lastly, I extend my deepest gratitude to all our pastors, delegates, our leadership team and to every member of our staff team.

Thank you for making this journey one of the most memorable and fulfilling experiences of my life. I also wish to thank my wife, Khim, and our two sons, Samuel and Silas, for their unwavering support and love to me without which I would not be able to carry on in my duties and responsibilities as President.

Most of all, I give thanks to God for his immeasurable grace and mercy upon me as without him, I am nothing.

in Europe or America. But I am afraid lest they should exist as a dead sect, having the form of religion without the power. And this undoubtedly will be the case unless they hold fast both the doctrine, spirit, and discipline with which they first set out …" ~ Thoughts Upon Methodism,

December 2024 Methodist Message 5

Photos courtesy of TRAC BOWM and Stanley Chua

Methodists should ever cease to exist either

News

Lianne Ong is the Editor of Methodist Message. / Photo courtesy of Choe Peng Sum

Bishop appoints new ACS Board of Governors Chairperson He is also a member of several other boards, including SAFRA Board of Governors.

"I thank the Bishop of The Methodist Church in Singapore for this appointment and Richard for his strong and capable leadership. I have big shoes to fill but with God's grace and strength I hope to carry on the task of shaping the success of the ACS family for God's glory.

I would surely need the help and support of all in the ACS family. To God Be The Glory! The Best Is Yet To Be!" Mr Choe said.

Mr Seow had originally planned to retire from this position two years ago but remained as Chairperson at the request of Bishop Dr Gordon Wong, so that he could lead Mr Choe Peng Sum

T

he ACS Board of Governors (BOG) has a new chairperson. Mr Choe Peng Sum

will succeed Mr Richard Seow, who stepped down after 16 years of service, with effect from 1 November 2024.

Mr Choe, a current member of the BOG, has been on the Board since January 2020. Mr Choe graduated from ACS in 1976 and was part of the first cohort of students at AngloChinese Junior College.

Mr Choe is the Chief Executive Officer of Pan Pacific Hotels Group, a wholly owned subsidiary of Singapore-listed UOL Group Limited. He oversees close to 50 hotels, resorts and serviced suites across the Pan Pacific, PARKROYAL COLLECTION and PARKROYAL brands, comprising 15,000 keys across 30 cities in Asia Pacific, Europe and North America. He joined Pan Pacific Hotels Group in 2019 where he oversees the Group's overall management and global expansion strategies.

6 Methodist Message December 2024

discussions with the Ministry of Education in establishing a new Special Education School in partnership with the Methodist Welfare Services, as well as the proposed relocation of ACS (Primary) to Tengah.

Mr Seow will now serve as ChairmanDesignate of the Special Education School. "His perseverance and vision were instrumental in securing government approval for the new school, making him the ideal leader for this exciting endeavour," said Bishop Dr Wong, who thanked Mr Seow for his outstanding contributions during his tenure, noting Mr Seow's other achievements in establishing the ACS Foundation and cofounding the Oldham Club at the ACS Old Boys' Association.

This article was first published on the Methodist Message website on 1 November 2024.

Rev Dr Andrew Peh is a lecturer in missions and world religions at Trinity Theological College.

He is a diaconal minister in the Chinese Annual Conference and is attached to Bukit Panjang Methodist Church.

Feature

Methodist Soci a l Principles The Bible doesn't talk about global warming and recycling, so what should we do?

Every Christian aspires to obey God, avoid evil and do good.

But some modern-day predicaments are not discussed specifically in the Bible.

How, then, can we apply biblical principles to our lives? In this 9-part series, The Methodist Church in Singapore shares reflections on its Social Principles which, more than ever before, can help believers live by God's firm principles in today's volatile and complex world. This final instalment discusses The Sphere of Creation Care.

Here, Rev Dr Andrew Peh looks at how the Church can respond to the environmental issues of our day through a biblical lens, by the grace of the Holy Spirit. / Part 9 of 9 /

I

n 1945, Albert Einstein, J Robert

Not surprisingly, the younger

Oppenheimer and University of Chicago

generation is seeing the need to rise up

scientists who helped develop the first

and challenge the norms and hopefully

atomic weapons in the Manhattan Project

bring about real change in responding

founded the Bulletin of the Atomic Scientists.

to the crisis.

Two years later in 1947, employing the

What are our environmental ethics?

imagery of the biblical Apocalypse, the

Regrettably, evangelical Christianity is

Bulletin developed a countdown of the state

complicit in this apathy whenever the

of the world that inches towards a global

issue of caring for creation is raised.

"Armageddon" (midnight), referred to as the Doomsday clock. In their annual report

For too long, evangelical Christianity

published in January 2024, we are now 90

has adopted a "default setting", where

seconds from midnight on the Doomsday clock.

it is all about us. We are at the centre

1

of it all, where the creation mandate While there have been various international

is given for humanity to subdue and

initiatives to mitigate the effects of

have dominion, therefore giving us

anthropogenic climate change (such as

licence to use (and abuse) all that God

the increasing frequency and intensity of

has created.

wildfires, droughts, hurricanes, floods as well as deforestation, rising sea levels and

We believe that at the end of time, this

destruction of biodiversity), there is perhaps a

"world will melt like snow" and will be

severe deficit of courage and fortitude among

no more and hence we should rightly

the world leaders to address the gravity and

be concerned only with saving souls

the urgency of the effects of climate change.

instead of saving whales or rhinos.

December 2024 Methodist Message 7

There are evangelicals who contest the view that

This is well encapsulated in Lausanne's Cape Town

global warming and climate change is a direct

Commitment:

consequence of human action.

The earth is created, sustained and Environmental degradation and climate change

redeemed by Christ. We cannot claim to

are seen as the earth's natural response rather

love God while abusing what belongs to

than a result of human consumerism and greed.

Christ by right of creation, redemption and inheritance. We care for the earth and

Evangelicals are generally tacit in their views and

responsibly use its abundant resources, not

are complicit in discounting numerous attempts

according to the rationale of the secular

to make conscious efforts in addressing and

world, but for the Lord's sake.

arresting the speed of global warming.

If Jesus is Lord of all the earth, we cannot Sadly, environmental ethics and caring for

separate our relationship to Christ from how

creation do not seem to resonate, nor does it have

we act in relation to the earth. For to proclaim

relevance, among Protestants. In our churches,

the gospel that says 'Jesus is Lord' is to

there are many members who think that the

proclaim the gospel that includes the earth,

bottom line is that we need only bother with

since Christ's Lordship is over all creation.

saving souls and everything else is peripheral,

Creation care is thus a gospel issue within the

perhaps even unnecessary.

Lordship of Christ.

It may well be that that is the chief end of the

Such love for God's creation demands that we

mission of the Church. But is that the chief end of

repent of our part in the destruction, waste

the mission of God?

and pollution of the earth's resources and our collusion in the toxic idolatry of consumerism.

Creation care: A gospel issue

Instead, we commit ourselves to urgent and

As I began researching on this area through a

prophetic ecological responsibility. 2

survey of the Scriptures, God's word is replete with all these references where we cannot

In this regard, I am heartened by the addition of

ignore creation simply because Christ's work

The Sphere of Creation Care in the revision of the

on the cross redeems not only humanity but

Methodist Social Principles. It is a reminder that

creation itself.

we cannot ignore the rest of God's creation!

We need to reread the creation mandate in

While the biblical accounts are inordinately

Genesis 1; to respond to the psalmists' call for

partial to human salvation—the work of saving

creation (yes in all of God's splendid creativity)

people from sin and judgement, and that

to praise the Lord; to recount as in Jonah 3

should indeed be an important focus of our

that God's grace is extended impartially to the

partnership with God in his mission—that is not

Ninevites as well as to the animals, contrary to

the whole story of God's mission and therefore,

Jonah's personal preconceptions.

that should not be our whole story in our mission emphases as well.

We cannot ignore passages in Romans 8, where Paul wrote in hope, that all creation,

If God is concerned about creation, should we not

now groaning, will be liberated from its

also be similarly concerned?

bondage to decay and also in Colossians 1, that God through Christ, is reconciling to

This article was first published in Salt&Light on

himself all things.

13 May 2024.

1

See https://thebulletin.org/doomsday-clock/current-time/

2

See Lausanne Movement, The Cape Town Commitment, https://lausanne.org/content/ctc/ctcommitment#p1-7 December 2024 Methodist Message 9

Celebrating 25 years of service

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Soundings

Dr Roland Chia is Chew Hock Hin Professor of Christian Doctrine at Trinity Theological College and Theological and Research Advisor at the Ethos Institute for Public Christianity.

Celebrating Christmas in a violent world

A

s Christians all over the globe celebrate

Besides these war zones and hotspots, an

Christmas this year, they do so in a world

increase in urban violence in major cities such

that is in turmoil, with many parts gripped

as Chicago, Johannesburg and Rio de Janeiro

by violence and scarred by unconscionable

have also been reported.

atrocities.

According to one report, there have been more At the time of this writing, the war between

than 385 mass shootings across the United

Russia and Ukraine, which began in 2022, rages

States from January to September 2024.1

on, with considerable casualties on both sides

Another report states that as of 5 September,

and extensive damage to infrastructure. Despite

"at least 11,598 people have died from gun

international efforts to broker peace, the end

violence in the U.S. this year—an average of

of this war—which has displaced millions and

almost 47 deaths each day …" 2

created a humanitarian crisis—remains elusive.

Violent extremism associated with terrorist The situation in the Middle East continues to

organisations continues to be a global

be tense and volatile due to the war between

threat in 2024. France, Germany and the

Israel and Hamas, which began in October

UK continue to face the threat of attacks

2023, and which has brought the region to

from both Islamist extremists and far-right

the brink of full-scale conflict.

militants. In Africa, terrorist groups such as Boko Haram and affiliates of the Islamic

In addition, there are political unrest and

State (ISIS) continue in their campaigns of

violent conflicts in many parts of the globe,

terror and violence.

which are overshadowed by the media's focus on Europe and the Middle East. They include

What does it mean to celebrate Christmas in

the Democratic Republic of Congo, Ethiopia,

a world that is wracked in so many places by

Sudan, Myanmar and Latin America.

violence, conflict and hate?

December 2024 Methodist Message 11

Celebrating Christmas in a violent world

For Christians, it must mean that we set aside

Through the public ministry of his

the childish superficialities and the kitsch that

incarnate Son, his lonely death on the

is sometimes associated with the festival and

cross and his glorious resurrection, God

return to the very essence of Christmas. For

has made possible for his creation a future

Christmas reveals this stark reality: that we

marked with his Shalom, not conflict.

are a fallen race inhabiting a fallen reality, and desperately in need of a saviour.

Through the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, God has vanquished all

The Saviour has indeed arrived on the first

his enemies—the evil spiritual forces

Christmas when the world was engulfed by

at work in the world, the principalities

the darkness of violence, hatred and despair

and powers that dare to oppose the

—to bring light and salvation. As Isaiah had

Almighty One. As the apostle Paul has so

perceived so many centuries ago, with the

arrestingly put it, Christ has "disarmed

Saviour's appearance, "[t]he people who

the spiritual rulers and authorities. He

walked in darkness have seen a great light;

shamed them publicly by his victory over

those who dwelt in a land of deep darkness,

them on the cross" (Colossians 2:15 NLT).

on them has light shone" (Isaiah 9:2).

In celebrating Christmas, Christians not Christians can celebrate Christmas in a

only look back at the humble manger

violent world because Christmas is a powerful

in Bethlehem. They also look forward to

reminder that God has not forgotten

God's promised future in the new heaven

or abandoned his fallen creatures. In

and the new earth. This is a future made

celebrating Christmas amidst the turmoil and

sure by the sacrificial ministry of the

distress, Christians proclaim God's love and

Prince of Peace, a future of everlasting

commitment to his creation, especially the

peace which Isaiah saw even before the

creatures he has created in his image.

first Christmas:

In this profound sense, celebrating Christmas

[T]hey shall beat their swords into

in a broken world is an act of defiance against

plowshares, and their spears into pruning

the forces of darkness that are at war with

hooks; nation shall not lift up sword

the Creator. The celebration is an eloquent

against nation, neither shall they learn war

declaration that because God is indeed with us

anymore (Isaiah 2:4).

(Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:22-23), Christians can be joyful in the midst of suffering and demonstrate

This hope should spur Christians to action.

uncommon love in the midst of hate.

In celebrating Christmas, Christians must also allow God to use them as instruments

Because of Christmas, therefore, Christians

and conduits of peace: to be peacemakers

dare to hope. Because of Christmas, Christians

themselves (Matthew 5:9), and to exercise the

can be a people of hope.

ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:11-21).

For Christians, the birth of Jesus Christ is not

In this way, Christians can truly be the light

simply a historical event but a promise of the

of the world (Matthew 5:14-16), reflecting that

future which God had decreed before the

great Light who came into this world of sin and

foundation of the world.

darkness on the first Christmas.

1 "How many US mass shootings have there been in 2024?," BBC, September 5, 2024, https://www.bbc.com/news/world-uscanada-41488081.

Kiara Alfonseca, "About 11,600 people have died in US gun violence so far in 2024," ABC News, September 6, 2024, https://abcnews. go.com/US/gun-violence-claimed-lives-5000-people-2024/story?id=107262776.

2

12 Methodist Message December 2024

Worship

Dr Judith Laoyan-Mosomos is the Director for Worship & Church Music at the Methodist School of Music and a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church.

From crib to cross

Love came down, love so amazing

Love came down at Christmas, Love all lovely, Love divine; Love was born at Christmas; star and angels gave the sign.

Love Came Down at Christmas (UMH 242, stanza 1) Christina G Rossetti, 1885

The world was weary, hoping for a Messiah—a Saviour to bring peace to the chaos. Yet, when God answered, he did so in a way no one expected: not with royal splendour, but in a humble manger.

Love arrived unnoticed, wrapped in the vulnerability of a newborn child.

God's love manifests in the simple, the quiet and the overlooked. As the Magi followed the star and the shepherds heeded the angel's call, we discover that true power lies in love, not in might.

When Jesus came to Jordan to be baptised by John, he did not come for pardon but as the sinless one.

He came to share repentance with all who mourn their sins, to speak the vital sentence with which good news begins.

When Jesus Came to Jordan (UMH 252, stanza 1) Fred Pratt Green, 1973

The love that was born in Bethlehem continued to manifest as Jesus entered the Jordan River. He came not for his own repentance but to stand with us in ours. His baptism was an act of solidarity—a moment where the sinless One chose to enter the waters with those who were broken and burdened by sin.

December 2024 Methodist Message 13

From crib to cross: Love came down, love so amazing

Jesus, in his baptism, began his public ministry by identifying with the very people he came to save. His baptism points us to the kind of love he embodied—a love that meets us where we are, even in our repentance and brokenness, and offers us grace.

Were the whole realm of nature mine, that were an offering far too small; love so amazing, so divine, demands my soul, my life, my all.

When I Survey the Wondrous Cross, (UMH298, stanza 4)

Jesus' hands were kind hands, doing good to all, healing pain and sickness, blessing children small, washing tired feet, and saving those who fall; Jesus' hands were kind hands, doing good to all.

Jesus' Hands Were Kind Hands (UMH273, stanza 1) Margaret Cropper, 1975

The love that came down at Christmas and was revealed at the Jordan became visible in the hands of Jesus. His hands, tender yet strong, reached out to heal the sick, lift the broken and bless the vulnerable. These hands, filled with kindness, did not just perform miracles; they extended God's love to everyone they touched.

From the manger to his ministry, Jesus' hands were always doing the work of love. He welcomed children, healed the blind and even washed his disciples' feet, showing that true greatness in the kingdom of God is found in humble service.

Just as Jesus' hands were kind hands, doing good to all, we are called to follow his example. The love that began in the manger, manifested in his baptism, and was shown through his ministry, now invites us to use our hands to love and serve others.

Isaac Watts, 1707

After witnessing the love that came down at Christmas—the love that was revealed at Jesus' baptism, manifested in his hands, and culminated in his sacrifice on the cross—we are left with one response: to give ourselves fully in return.

The love of Jesus is so profound, so boundless, that even if we could offer all of creation, it would not be enough. His love, from the manger to the cross, calls us to surrender our souls, our lives and everything we have.

This love demands more than words or rituals; it calls for a life lived in total devotion to God and in service to others. Just as Jesus' hands were kind hands, serving and loving, so too must our lives reflect that love in every action, every word and every choice.

As we celebrate the birth of Christ this Christmas, let us not simply marvel at his love. Instead, let us ask how we can respond to that love with our own lives. What would it look like for us to offer our soul, our life and our all to him?

Jesus' love—so amazing, so divine— demands not just our worship but our lives.

Let us go forth to love God, giving all we have, living in the light of the love that has been given to us and sharing it with our neighbours and to the world.

Just as Jesus' hands were kind hands, serving and loving, so too must our lives reflect that love in every action, every word and every choice.

14 Methodist Message December 2024

Grandpa’s Greatest Gift Story by Amelia Leo Illustrations by Nicholas Liem

“December is here!” JJ announced, Excited, he jumped, all around the house.

“Christmas is coming, the season is here For presents, good food and loads of good cheer!”

December 2024 Methodist Message 15

“It wasn’t like that when I was a boy, We had so little, not even a toy.

Many a time, our meals had no meat; Even an egg was considered a treat.”

“What? No way! Now eggs are aplenty— With ham, beef and a big, fat turkey!”

“Yes,” said Grandpa, “we didn’t have much, Neither meat, nor clothes, nor presents and such.”

16 Methodist Message December 2024

“Our neighbours, who came from so far away, Shared the meaning of this special day.

To them, Christmas was such a happy affair; A special time to bless and to care.

“Each Christmas they’d visit, bringing a gift, Some money and food, which brought us relief.

They’d sing about God sending His Son To save us from all the sins we had done.

December 2024 Methodist Message 17

“They meant nothing, the words of these songs.

But the tunes were pretty, so I sang along.

Soon our friends left, and Singapore grew Into a city, modern and new.

“More years flew by, and life scurried on; I slowly forgot those old Christmas songs.

Taking their place were bright lights and shopping, Singing replaced with buying and getting.

18 Methodist Message December 2024

“One Christmas Day, I met an old friend; We fondly recalled how things were back then.

That’s when I asked him what it all meant: Who was the Son that God said He sent?”

“God our Creator,” my friend explained, “Was brokenhearted by the sin of all men.

Everything good, now wasting away; Everything beautiful, facing decay.”

“Sin was the culprit, punishment was due To those who rebelled—that’s me and you.

But God, in His mercy, took our place, By sending Jesus for the human race.”

December 2024 Methodist Message 19

“And so, dear JJ, this is the reason Why we are joyful each Christmas season: The gifts we receive help us to focus On God’s greatest gift—Jesus with us!”

“The lights and good food—should we stop them?”

For JJ still wanted his turkey and ham.

“You asked a good question,” his grandfather smiled, “There’s still a good reason to have them, dear child.”

20 Methodist Message December 2024

“The lights remind us of Jesus, the Light, Who chases away all darkness and night.

That’s the best reason for a great feast, For hope has come to the greatest and least!”

December 2024 Methodist Message 21

The true Christmas story Grandpa just told Helped JJ to see the season unfold In a different way from how he had thought, Of getting presents, or eating a lot.

Each Christmas present he’d open in awe; Behind each gift, it was Jesus he saw.

The lights and the feasts, a celebration Fit for the birth of the King of heaven.

“Thank you, Grandpa, for sharing with me The story of Christmas, so rich and free.

I’ll pass it on now to those who would hear, In hopes they’ll know Jesus, who loves us so dear.”

22 Methodist Message December 2024

Outreach

Photos courtesy of Methodist Missions Society

Outgoing MMS leaders

contemplate succession and continuity Alvin Tan has served as the Chairperson of Methodist Missions Society for two quadrennia and will step down at the end of 2024.

(above) Praying for MMS' missionaries (above right) Phulbari MC overlooking the Himalayan range

A

nother quadrennium of The Methodist

A potential strategic and governance risk

Church in Singapore (MCS) will end at

arising from leadership change is misalignment

the close of this year. The leadership at the

of ministries and initiatives away from MMS'

General Conference, along with those of its

mandate and strategic objectives. This could

councils and agencies, will change.

lead to conflict and confusion in the decisionmaking process, or worse, reputational loss

As an MCS agency, the Methodist Missions

among partners and supporters and wastage of

Society (MMS) will also see changes in

agency resources.

the substantive members of its Executive Committee (ExCo), which comprises two

However, continuity can be preserved at both

nominees (one lay and one clergy) from

the ExCo and Home Office levels. For the ExCo,

each of the three Annual Conferences.

this may be achieved by ensuring substantive

For the upcoming quadrennium, I shall

members have longstanding involvement

relinquish my position as ExCo Chairman

with, and intimate knowledge of, MMS'

to Collin Tan, who may co-opt other

ministry. At the Home Office level, the same

substantive members.

applies to the incoming Executive Director and key position holders.

The ExCo composition prescribed by the Book of Discipline ensures a structured

When each new quadrennium starts, a

succession of people into positions, which

necessary risk mitigation action is a programme

addresses one of the key issues associated

to familiarise all new ExCo substantive

with leadership change.

members and key position holders at the Home Office with MMS' mandate, goals and objectives;

A more nebulous issue is the continuity

field ministries; field development roadmap;

of strategic and cultural emphases from

governance framework; etc. Much of these have

one set of leaders to the next. These

been documented in the Missions Manual.

may include continuing to consider new initiatives and project proposals in

A loss of momentum is perhaps inevitable with

the context of the strategic roadmap,

leadership change at every new quadrennium.

in resource allocation, in engagement

The transition could, however, be quickened

and collaboration with the wider

not only by ensuring that there are people to

community in order to be the missions

pass the baton to but also by preparing them

agency of choice.

to run the race well.

December 2024 Methodist Message 23

Outgoing MMS leaders contemplate succession and continuity

MMS leaders, staff and missionaries; seated from left to right are Col Quek Koh Eng, Alvin Tan, Bishop Dr Gordon Wong, Rev Derrick Lau and (former staff) Noel Tam

Col (Ret) Quek Koh Eng has served in MMS as Regional Director (East Asia/Laos/Thailand /Timor-Leste). He will step down at the end of 2024 after 20 years of service.

But first,

W

pray

e live in a world that is in a

I personally believe and have experienced

hurry, a world fascinated with

God's divine intervention whenever we

speed rather than reflection. The late

present and submit our ministries and

Christian philosopher, Dallas Willard,

projects to his Lordship in prayer.

said, "Hurry is the great enemy of spiritual life in our day. You must

An instance was when a few of us were

ruthlessly eliminate hurry from your

worshipping in a mud hut in Phulbari,

life." When we are in a hurry with no

Nepal with a dozen Nepali pastors

time for the spiritual discipline of

and leaders in 2006. After very vibrant

learning to wait, pray and reflect before

worship, we went into deep prayer and

God, we tend to run ahead of him.

felt the presence of God. Then, I heard his distinct voice: "Upon this rock I

In MMS, we meet every week to commit

will build my church." After I released

and pray for God's direction and

these words to those present, a brother

empowerment. Our national pastors and

immediately announced he would

lay leaders gather to pray once or twice a

donate funds to build a church at the

month, enabled by the internet. We seek

site. The Phulbari Methodist Church was

to have a strong sense of our dependence

built in 2008 at this site overlooking the

on God in everything we do collectively.

Himalayan ridge.

24 Methodist Message December 2024

I have also seen how God brings people together for his Kingdom work. Pastor Daniel and Sharon Loo from Melbourne contacted me in early 2011 after joining Mettakij Church Association (MCA) as missionaries in Phrao, Chiangmai. Pastor Daniel shared his journey and work in obedience to God's calling to start the Little Candles nursery and kindergarten in 2010. They saw the enormous impact of providing excellent education and Christan values to the young children. He realised that it would be a waste if the children had to continue their primary education in a different environment.

After extended prayer sessions and several discussions to finalise the processes and governance issues, we caught God's vision to build and start a primary school.

This was unanimously supported by the LCS School Board of Management chaired by Emeritus Prof Lionel Lee. The primary school was completed and dedicated to the glory of God on 20 March 2024 by Bishop Dr Gordon Wong. It was a very successful building project supported by like-minded Christians.

Another major direction resulting from prayer was the amicable decision to leave the Pelican group in building a Methodist school at the potential site allocated in Dili, Timor-Leste. After waiting seven years, the Lord revealed his grand plan and impressed on us to look for an alternative site to lease for building our own school. The process was meticulously executed with the marvellous support of our Methodist churches and the community. St Paul Methodist School would not have gotten off the ground if not for our persistent prayers and God's instruction to take a bold and courageous decision to strike out on our own.

There were also instances when God answered the prayers of our missionaries and their families when they encountered various challenges and calamities.

Pastor Daniel's eldest daughter had to undergo two operations in Thailand and Singapore to address her brain seizures over two years. Our missionary in TimorLeste, Joseph Mannar, escaped serious injury when the vehicle he was driving had a head-on collision on the way from Dili to Gleno, Ermera District.

Through prayer, God's spiritual covering and protection are constantly manifested for those who serve and love him, and we have seen this for ourselves in MMS.

December 2024 Methodist Message 25

Outreach

By the Methodist Welfare Services Communications Team. / Photos courtesy of Methodist Welfare Services

"I wanted to jump off the highest building in Singapore …"

The mental health toll of caregiving

M

dm Sun Chun Yan was just 37 years old

"I couldn't see God"

when she stepped into the role of full-

That was back in 2007—six years after the

time caregiver to her husband, Mr Sim Chek

couple had tied the knot. They first met

Kwang, after a stroke left him paralysed on

in 1999 while they were doing missionary

his right side.

work overseas.

"My husband was a dental surgeon then.

The tragedy dramatically changed their

He collapsed in the middle of performing a

lives. Mdm Sun found herself now having

procedure," Mdm Sun, now 54, recalled. "The

to assist her husband with daily living

stroke was so severe that surgery wasn't an

activities and cope with his emotional

option, and the doctors told me to prepare

outbursts and tantrums.

for his funeral."

"I asked God to either heal my husband Following the stroke, Mr Sim was bedbound

or take him away," she recalled. "But God

and dependent on a feeding tube. "I prayed,

reminded me that my role is to love and

'Jesus, if you give him life, let him enjoy food

honour my husband, and his grace would

again," Mdm Sun said. "After 40 days, he

sustain me."

could eat porridge, and after 70 days, he was discharged. A hundred days later, he stood

Faith and resilience have carried Mdm Sun

and began walking with a stick. But he

through 17 years of caregiving, especially

hasn't spoken since."

after her husband's second stroke in 2022.

26 Methodist Message December 2024

chronic conditions, easing Mdm Sun's caregiving and financial burdens. The medical team stabilised his health, while a physiotherapist helped him regain balance and walking confidence.

MWS medical social worker Yeo Chee Wei also supported Mdm Sun in managing the emotional challenges of caregiving, helping her build effective coping strategies.

"The first time I met Chee Wei, I broke down and cried for three hours. My deepest pain was feeling unseen, but Chee Wei and the MWS team understood my suffering—that alone was healing," Mdm Sun shared.

Mdm Sun Chun Yan and Mr Sim Chek Kwang in their home

However, when her husband, now 73, suffered a fall earlier this year that

"Through our sessions, I learnt to self-

hastened his physical decline, the weight of

reflect, recognise unhealthy thoughts

caregiving finally became too much for her

that contradicted my faith and adopt

to bear alone.

healthier thinking patterns. I learnt to trust in God more deeply. They

Sinking into deep depression, Mdm Sun

supported me with prayer when I asked,

confided in her social worker, "I want to

which was a source of great comfort."

jump off the highest building in Singapore."

Months passed with her confined to bed,

The MWS HCHH team also collaborated with

crying for hours each day, utterly drained

the CCMC pastoral staff to provide regular

and overwhelmed by hopelessness.

visits and prayer support for the couple.

"It was the lowest point of my life," Mdm Sun

"During the darkest moment of my life, I

recalled. "I felt I'd lost my faith and couldn't

saw a glimmer of light and hope through

see God. I'd always been mentally resilient—

MWS," shared a visibly grateful Mdm

with no job and income, even when I had to

Sun. "In the MWS team, I saw God's love

go hungry, God was my 'light'. But this time,

when I was broken and weary. I felt like a

that 'light' went out."

shattered cup, and they gently pieced me back together."

"I saw God's love" It was then that Mdm Sun confided in a

"Adversity is a gift"

close friend from her church, Covenant

With his medical conditions stabilised

Community Methodist Church (CCMC), and

and mobility improved, Mr Sim has been

a staff member from Methodist Welfare

discharged from MWS HCHH. Now, with a

Services (MWS) learnt about her situation.

quadstick and a helper's support, he can walk short distances, attend church and

On the MWS staff's advice, Mdm Sun

enjoy outings.

obtained a polyclinic referral for Mr Sim, leading to his enrolment with MWS Home

Mdm Sun has emerged from caregiver

Care & Home Hospice (HCHH).

burnout with a renewed commitment to both self-care and caring for her

Over six months, a multi-disciplinary

husband. "I take it day by day," she

team provided subsidised home medical

shared. "As Romans 8:28 says, all things

and nursing care to manage Mr Sim's

work together for good for those who

December 2024 Methodist Message 27

ACS (International)

ACS (International) Singapore is a distinctive international secondary school open to all Singaporeans & other nationalities, offering an all-round English-based education for students aged 12 to 18 years leading to the International General Certificate of Secondary Education (IGCSE) and the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (IBDP).

Senior Leadership Team

Building Through Belief, this school of choice provides • Exceptional examination results, strong value-added achievement and an all-round holistic education • 50:50 mix of local and international teachers who uphold the dual Methodist ethos and ACS heritage • Small class sizes with overall student-teacher ratio of 8.7 : 1 • 40 different CCAs – 16 Sporting, 12 Visual and Performing Arts, 12 Special Interest Groups • Over 200 formal student leadership positions • Scholarships for four Singaporeans to undertake the IBDP

Mr Gavin Kinch Principal

Mrs Tan Siew Hoon Vice-Principal

Achievements include • Students with perfect score of 45 points in IBDP • 23 “Top in the World” awards in IGCSE examinations over each of the past twelve years • Students accepted to Oxford and Cambridge universities for the past eight years • Admissions to top universities in the UK, the US, Australia and Singapore

Mr Christopher Hayward Vice-Principal

Dr Kristopher Achter Vice-Principal

For more information, please contact Joseph Ng or Serene Lim at +65 6472 1477 or admissions@acsinternational.edu.sg

• PSLE and GCE ‘O’ Level students obtaining outstanding value-added examination results for the IBDP and improved pathways to good universities • Successes at national level in Athletics, Touch Rugby, Debating, Orchestra, Volleyball, Taekwondo, Ice Hockey, Fencing, Swimming, Artistic Swimming, Rhythmic Gymnastics and Wushu.

love God. Whatever my situation, I

Yet, she has found beauty in adversity,

know it's for my good. I now feel more

witnessing God's hand in the kindness

prepared to face future challenges,

of friends and strangers. She recalled a

having learnt to prioritise self-care."

moment in August last year when, with an empty fridge and no food, she prayed

Despite financial hardships, Mdm Sun

and fasted. Days later, a stranger at church

has turned down well-paying job offers

handed her a red envelope with a four-

to stay by her husband's side. "This

figure sum, saying, "God asked me to

marriage is a gift from God, and caring

give this to you." She hadn't shared her

for my husband is my mission," she

situation with anyone. She brought the

said. "What he truly needs is love and

envelope home, gave it to her husband

companionship."

and they cried in gratitude.

This commitment has meant a frugal

"Adversity is a gift," Mdm Sun reflected.

life for Mdm Sun, who describes it as

"Each struggle has brought blessings and

"an arduous, tear-streaked journey of

provisions from God, teaching me that even

trusting God for our finances".

in hardship, there is beauty."

IF YOU NEED MENTAL OR EMOTIONAL SUPPORT, REACH OUT VIA THESE HELPLINES, ONLINE SERVICES OR SUPPORT CENTRES  MENTAL WELL-BEING Samaritans of Singapore (SOS): 1767 SOS CareText: 9151 1767 (via WhatsApp) Singapore Association for Mental Health: 1800 283 7019 Mdm Sun reads the Bible to her husband daily

Shine the light

of Jesus on those in need Caregivers like Mdm Sun often endure immense, prolonged stress that takes a toll on their mental and physical well-being. At MWS, we believe supporting our beneficiaries means also caring for their caregivers— attending to their emotional, spiritual and financial needs. Partner with us to bring the unshakeable hope of Christ to those who feel there is no light at the end of the tunnel.

To learn more about our work, visit www.mws.sg , or scan the QR Code to donate.

Institute of Mental Health (IMH): 6389 2222 CHAT by IMH (for ages 16 to 30): 6493 6500 / 6493 6501 Silver Ribbon Singapore: 6386 1928

 SUPPORT FOR SOCIAL AND EMOTIONAL ISSUES Family Service Centres (FSCs): You can locate your nearest FSC by entering your postal code on this website: www.msf.gov.sg/our-services/directories.

 FAMILY COUNSELLING AND MARRIAGE/DIVORCE SUPPORT Online Counselling on Family Assist: https://familyassist.msf.gov.sg/content/resources/ programmes/online-counselling/ Strengthening Families Programme@Family Service Centre (FAM@FSC): You can locate your nearest FAM@FSC by entering your postal code on this website: www.msf.gov.sg/our-services/directories.

For emergency assistance or medical services, please contact Emergency Medical Services at 995.

December 2024 Methodist Message 29

Rev Joey Chen is currently

Benny Bong has over

pastoring at Paya Lebar Methodist Church, and oversees the Family Life, Youth and Young Adult ministries.

Prior to pastoring, Rev Joey had stints in the public and private sectors doing communications work. She is married to Andrew, whom she met in seminary.

40 years of experience as a therapist, clinical supervisor and trainer. He also conducts regular talks and webinars.

Benny has helmed MM’s You & Your Family column for more than 18 years and is a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church.

Sue-Lynn Teo is a registered psychologist with the Singapore Psychological Society and is trained in Educational and Developmental Psychology. She specialises in assessments and therapy work with children who have learning, behavioural or special needs.

She worships at Toa Payoh Methodist Church with her family.

Need advice? Scan the QR code or visit https://www.methodist.org.sg/mm-atthe-well/ to submit your question. Due to space constraints and repetition of topics, we may not be able to feature all questions submitted.

At The Workplace

Double standards of WFO/WFH implementation I'm one of 12 heads of department (HODs) in a 200-staff organisation. We have a hybrid arrangement and work from home two days per week. However, there are teams not following this corporate rule and which come to the office once or twice a week. The HODs have agreed to enforce this rule but only half are doing so. Meanwhile, the rule abiders are demoralised by the double standards and management's ineffectiveness.

In fact, one of the bosses seems to be condoning the flouting of rules. The senior management is aware but nothing's been done. I feel conflicted as a believer because I want to show integrity, strong work ethics and values, but I can't help but identify with the unfairness. What should I do?  Conflicted 30 Methodist Message December 2024

Joey says Dear Conflicted, You may wish to speak with the department responsible for enforcing this arrangement (I'm assuming it's not yours) and let them know how this is affecting staff morale on the ground. What they do with that information is their responsibility.

This is something that will have to be tackled at a leadership level and is outside your domain.

As an HOD, your task is to manage the people in your department to comply with the corporate rule and to motivate and lead the people under your charge. This, I believe, is how you show integrity, strong work ethics and values as a Christian. As the one overseeing your department, you can build a culture of agape love within the team, where there is trust, transparency and mutual support in the common pursuit of excellence.

Put people first: care for your staff, nurture their growth, and help them to be the best they can be. If you do your job well and manage your department and your people well, it

Family

Too close for comfort My 12-year-old son is very close to me. As his mother, I love him but I do not like the way he clings to me sometimes. Some days when he wants my attention, he grabs my arm and pulls me towards him. As he is getting bigger, I feel tired trying to resist the force of his movements. When he is chastised for disobeying instructions for instance, instead of rectifying his behaviour, he asks me to hug him first. It feels like he's trying to evade or delay punishment and sometimes I tell him to do what he has to do before coming for a hug. This makes him upset and he has told me before that he feels hurt when I refuse to hug him. I am tired from the physical and emotional demands even though I love him. What can I do to make him understand that I would like some personal space without making him feel rejected?  Drained

Sue-Lynn says Dear Drained,

will be a good testimony to the rest of the organisation.

Firstly, explain to your son that as he gets older, there are some reasons why he might not be able to hug you whenever he wants. Assure him that you still love him very much and love can be expressed in many ways. Consider completing the "5 Love Languages of Children" quiz (https://5lovelanguages. com/quizzes/love-language) to identify his love language. Aside from physical touch, there is quality time, words of affirmation, acts of service and gifts.

There are other types of physical affection he may enjoy as well (e.g. sitting next to December 2024 Methodist Message 31

Walking alongside you with compassion and care

ESTABLISHED SINCE 2000

For I am convinced that neither death nor life, neither angels nor demons, neither the present nor the future, nor any powers, neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.

Romans 8:38–39

HOSANNA BREAVEMENT SERVICES PTD LTD

you, pats on the back, high-fives, side hugs, hand-shake routines). You could also set aside specific "hug times" at home. Show him an alternative way to get your attention (instead of pulling you) like tapping your arm or asking for you.

You may have to hold back your hugs until he gets into the habit of using these

Benny says Dear Concerned Dad,

alternative ways of getting your attention.

The topic of becoming a parent can be Secondly, explain that while you

one of the more challenging issues a

understand that he wants to be comforted

couple faces. There are some couples who

by hugs when he is scolded, the hugs

choose not to have children, while others

can only happen after he understands

may want children but are unable to. The

what he did wrong and deals with

latter may lead to considering whether to

the consequences. Explain that you

start a family by adoption or to have one

are not rejecting him when you're not

with medical assistance. For those who

hugging him but are teaching him to

can have children on their own, there is

understand that there are acceptable

the question of how many and when.

and unacceptable behaviours. Thirdly, explain the concept of personal space (i.e.

The concern of an only child having

the amount of space one needs around

to face the future alone once both his

them to feel comfortable) and help him to

parents have passed is a growing one.

distinguish between actions that respect

But this concern assumes that siblings

and do not respect one's personal space.

will be close and capable enough to care for each other. Communities today and in the future are relying more on care

Marriage

My wife does not want more children, but I do

networks that extend far beyond the immediate family members. And what our society will be like in thirty years is beyond our imagination.

My wife and I have a three-year-old son.

What are your wife's reasons for her

I was hoping to have another child so

decision not to have more children? It

that my son may have a companion

is good to determine if they amount to

and someone to share his burdens with,

a "firm no", "never" or under the present

especially when we are in our old age.

circumstances, "not now". I understand

However, my wife is not keen on it due

that time and procreation wait for no

to various reasons. I am concerned that

man or woman (to appropriate a saying).

by the time she might be ready to have

But a rushed or long-term commitment

a second child, it would be too late as we

entered into reluctantly is ill-advised.

are both in our late 30s. What should I do in this situation? How should I adjust

In the meantime, enjoy the gift of your

my thinking to accept that we would

present child. Who knows, it may be an

only have one child?

experience one wants to repeat again

 Concerned Dad

and again!

December 2024 Methodist Message 33

You and Your Family

Benny Bong has over 40 years of experience as a therapist, clinical supervisor and trainer. He also conducts regular talks and webinars.

Benny has helmed the You & Your Family column for more than 18 years and is a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church.

Mind your neighbours

A

n elderly Chinese lady, whom we shall

The same social service agency had

call Sally, contacted the social service

another case where a woman in her thirties

agency she frequented for exercise classes

approached it for support for an elderly

to report a concern. Sally said that she had

couple. The couple had lost their only child

not seen her neighbour—a single, Indian

six months before and the mother's grief

lady a few years younger—for a few days and

was overwhelming. She had previously

efforts to call on her went unanswered.

managed a small convenience stall in the market, but two months into their loss, the

Having been neighbours for a few years,

couple closed it as she was unable to attend

Sally enjoyed a cordial relationship with

to customers. Her husband became her

Mdm Mani. Three years earlier, the latter was

main caregiver but he too had health issues

divorced by her husband, who left the home

which made standing and walking difficult.

with their two sons. After that, she withdrew and would pull her curtains shut.

The younger woman, the grieving mother's niece, would look in on her aunt and uncle as

Accompanied by social workers, Sally went

often as she could after work. Having to juggle

to Mdm Mani's flat. After some persistent

care for the elderly couple and her own family

knocking, she opened the door. She

with two young children, it was clear that

appeared somewhat frail and confused.

in spite of her valiant efforts, she could not

They later learnt that most of her days and

continue doing it on her own indefinitely.

nights were spent lying on the sofa in the darkened living room. In the early days

These two cases are, unfortunately, not

after her divorce, she would occasionally

isolated ones. Over the years that I have

go out to buy groceries and cooked

worked with this agency, more and more seem

food. These forays out of the flat became

to be uncovered. Even as Singapore has made

increasingly infrequent as she lost her

significant strides in providing the basics for

energy and appetite.

its population, there remain pockets of need.

34 Methodist Message December 2024

Is it, can it be or even should it be the

I want to add a quick word here that

government's responsibility to care for each

the need for meaningful connection

and every one of its citizens? I do not think

is also felt by those who may be hale

so. This is because care at a personal level

and hearty and blessed with sufficient

cannot be solely a public policy issue.

resources. Money may give us greater autonomy and enable us to buy

The government can ensure that affordable

services but it cannot purchase care

health care is available to all and that a

and compassion.

basic structure of amenities is accessible for the frail or infirm. It may even establish

The two cases provide some reasons to

outreach programmes to contact those

be hopeful. As our immediate families

who may be isolated and shut in. But all

shrink in size, the wider family network

these brick-and-mortar efforts must run in

may be called upon to play a role.

tandem with human beings reaching out to

Informal and formal community carers

fellow human beings.

may also take on a bigger and bigger part in the care of individuals. This may

We all need and long for human connection.

mean neighbours breaking free from the

In the past, families and closely-knit

idea that minding your own business is a

communities provided this connection.

way of being respectful and neighbourly.

Today, as families shrink and many are

It is heartening that formal community-

trying hard to make a living, there is

based helping services have begun

little time or energy to build meaningful

attending to residents' emotional and

connections. Family visits to elderly parents

mental health needs as much as their

are limited to dropping off and picking up

needs for physical sustenance.

the grandchildren or to occasional visits during festive periods.

Finally, I am reminded of our Lord being asked a deep theological question:

To complicate this is the stoic attitude of

"What must I do to inherit eternal life?"

some elderly who feel that their own needs

The ensuing discourse entrenches the

are not to be voiced lest they inconvenience

imperative to love and care for our

others. Reinforcing this self-imposed silence

neighbour, which includes anyone we

may be the sense that they are no longer

know is in need (Luke 10:25-37). Only

able to contribute and are therefore only a

then can our faith be seen as genuine in

burden and a drain on resources.

expressing God's love.

As our immediate families shrink in size, the wider family network may be called upon to play a role.

Informal and formal community carers may also take on a bigger and bigger part in the care of individuals. This may mean neighbours breaking free from the idea that minding your own business is a way of being respectful and neighbourly.

December 2024 Methodist Message 35

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DOUBLE

Open Monday to Friday, 9am-5pm (Closed on Public Holidays)

1 or 7

$2400

$4200

2 or 6

$3100

$5800

Tel : 6479 8122 | HP : 9670 9935 Fax: 6479 6960 Email: gepc400@gmail.com

3 to 5

$4000

$7200

For booking of niches, please contact the columbarium office to arrange for an appointment.

garden of eternal peace indesign.indd 4

24/2/2023 4:41:50 pm

WHAT IS THE GENERAL CONFERENCE What are Annual Conferences?

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What does being part of a connectional church mean?

Your questions, answered.

Join us as our MCS land comes alive in this explainer video.

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methodist.org.sg /conferences

Sakuntala Jackson serves as ETAC's WSCS President and WSCS Social Concerns Coordinator at Pasir Panjang Tamil Methodist Church. / Photo courtesy of Sakuntala Jackson

The phone call that saved me Trigger warning: Suicide ideation is mentioned.

I

was born and raised in a Hindu family. As a teen in the 1980s, I had no knowledge

about Christ nor did I have any Christian friends. I even told my mother that I would never marry a Christian, but God had different plans for me.

I married a Christian and started going to church weekly, but nothing changed in me.

I was not paying attention to the worship or the Word. There were days I dragged myself to church. When my daughter was young, I had to care for my sick mother who was living with me. It was too much

Sakuntala Jackson (first from right) with her husband, D Jackson CS and daughter Charlotte Abigail

to bear, and I thought of ending my life together with my daughter who was just

That was the turning point in my life. I

three years old. At that moment, I received

started going to church with my family,

a phone call from my aunt.

with a sincere heart. My church elder Mrs Puspa Stephen shared the gospel and led

"Just be patient for a while, everything

me to Christ. She encouraged me to serve

will be fine. Don’t make any hasty

the Lord wholeheartedly. I started my

decisions," she said. I knew then it was

ministry in Pasir Panjang Tamil Methodist

Jesus speaking to me through her—he

Church with the WSCS. I came as a visitor,

rescued me and my child. Instantly I

joined as a member and was groomed by

broke down and cried uncontrollably.

my church to be a servant leader.

Kopi kakis by Lau Peng Leong, Yen Tun I and Zachary Yong

December 2024 Methodist Message 37

From choral concerts to Christmas villages, check out our list of events held by Methodist churches and agencies this month and make plans to visit with your friends and family!

Scan the QR code or visit https://www.methodist.org. sg/methodist-message/ christmas-2024 Check back often as the list may be updated.

wishes all readers a blessed Christmas!