Vol 120 No 1 • JAN 2018
inside
this issue...
ISSN 0129-6868 MCI (P) 019/11/2017
ETAC, CAC, and TRAC Highlights of their 42nd Sessions pages 4-11
Reformation 500: Reprise Lessons from the Reformation pages 12-13
message.methodist.org.sg
Methodist Centre R&R Beginning with prayer page 20
BISHOP’S NEW YEAR MESSAGE
Obedience in truth and love Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung was elected Bishop of The Methodist Church in Singapore in 2016. He served as President of the Chinese Annual Conference for two quadrennia from 2008 to 2016.
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bedience is a form of discipline that requires truth and love to be well-integrated, as well as holding each other in mutual examination. Obeying that which flies in the face of truth is a very dangerous and foolish act, as it either benefits self while doing harm to others, or it leads everyone to ruin. We are often wooed and persuaded by various different ideologies, many of which are affirmed and accepted based on the claims of truth and logic, and the positive impact they may have on quality of life and character, of the self and for society. These ideologies, even if based on truth, need to be subjected to the test of love when applied – love for self and for others. Even truth, or a worthy word, may have a counterproductive effect when spoken at an inappropriate time or context. Often, this is because the truth spoken had not undergone a careful examination through the lens of love, resulting in negative emotional reactions. For Christians, obedience is the real test of our love for Christ. Jesus said: “Whoever has my commandments and keeps them, he it is who loves me. And he who loves me will be loved by my Father, and I will love him and manifest myself to him.” (John 14:21) The call to obey, be it from Jesus Christ or the Bible’s teachings, is never about doing harm to others, or anything evil. When calls are made for action in the name of the Lord, they must not go against His attribute of love, and His truth that we love our neighbours as ourselves (Luke 10:27).
The Bible declares, “Love does no harm to a neighbour; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law” (Romans 13:10), while also exhorting us to “put on love, which binds everything together in perfect harmony” (Colossians 3:14b). With the arrival of 2018, let us pray for world peace, and may all who believe in the Lord our God not only obey His will, but also obey the truth of loving our neighbours, that this world may experience love. n
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COMING UP
Visit TTC – where God prepares His people for service Ever wondered... how you might deepen your understanding of the Gospel and develop a spiritually mature and vibrant faith? Ever wished… you could receive a theological education that is grounded in Holy Scripture, informed by Christian tradition, and serious about your formation as a disciple of Christ? Ever contemplated... God’s call upon your life and how you may be equipped to serve God in the church and society? Consider Trinity Theological College (TTC)… where you will find study and formational programmes that sharpen the mind, shape the heart, and strengthen the hands to serve God in the church and world. Together with other members of the TTC community, you will be inspired to grow in faith, hope and love, as you discern God’s voice and will for your life. Where God prepares His people for service… through an educational journey that is enriched by the lives of Christians from different churches and diverse vocational backgrounds.
Here is what some of our students have to say about learning at TTC: “The Master of Theological Studies (MTS) is a wonderful programme that has helped me develop a holistic vision of reality, grounded in the Word of God. In particular, my medical practice has been challenged and reinvigorated by the theological perspectives and reflections. I believe theological education will equip me to better utilise my medical training for the Kingdom of God in the future.” Kelvin Li Kaiwen (MTS 2nd Year) is a medical doctor “The MTS helps develop a deeper understanding of the Faith. I have learned much more than anticipated and the course has also ignited the journey of my spiritual awakening. I strongly recommend the MTS for those who teach and share Bible knowledge in church.” Sherrin Chua (MTS 2nd Year) is a civil servant “It has been a wholesome experience… the research skills developed, working on papers… have become effective tools in my ministry journey. One of the greatest benefits of studying at TTC is that you get to interact with colleagues from different denominations and churches, which allows you to develop a broader perspective of the Christian faith and practices.” Bobby Chaw (MDiv 2011) is Dean of Students / Missions Director at City Harvest Church’s School of Theology “The spiritual formation experience I had was memorable. The library was first-class. I had access to whatever materials I needed and was able to complete my vernacular translation of the New Testament; the Luqa New Testament was sent off to the printer when I was at TTC. 14 years after I graduated, I still treasure my time and educational experience at TTC.” Dr Alpheaus Graham Zobule (MTh 2003) is Translation Consultant and Founder of Islands Bible Ministries and Islands Christian College, and Language Institute, Solomon Islands
Visit our campus, meet our faculty and students, attend classes, worship and fellowship with us on 24 Jan 2018. Bring your questions, bring your friends! n Background photo and school crest courtesy of Trinity Theological College
Methodist Message wishes all readers a very happy and blessed 2018!
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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. Our address
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ONE MCS – AC HIGHLIGHTS
Presidents’ greetings 2018 The Rev Dr Gregory Goh Nai Lat, President of the Chinese Annual Conference: The New Year always brings us joy because it gives us a chance to start again, and this brings hope into our lives. It is my prayer that we will all continue to grow in our walk with Christ in the new year ahead, and in doing so come to experience His goodness each and every day. Let us do what the Apostle Paul has taught us, to “pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:17-18, NIV) I wish you and your families a blessed New Year! The Rev James Nagulan, President of Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference: “Delight yourself in the Lord, and he will give you the desires of your heart. Commit your way to the Lord; trust in him, and he will act.” (Psalm 37:4-5) As we step into a new year filled with challenges and opportunities, let us place first things first. Let us desire God first, and soon His desire shall be ours. Three things to consider: Delight, Commit, and Trust that God is at work in you, and will give you the desires of your heart. Take a bold step into a fresh new year with God on your side. Blessed New Year!
The Rev Dr Gordon Wong, President of Trinity Annual Conference: We all have hopes and dreams as another year begins. But may our greatest hope and dream be for the Lord’s will to be done more perfectly in our lives, here on earth as it is in heaven. I wish you, and your family, and mine, the greetings and prayers of the apostle Paul: “Now may the Lord of peace himself give you peace at all times and in every way. The Lord be with all of you.” (2 Thessalonians 3:16, NIV) Amen.
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ETAC 42ND SESSION: 10-11 NOV 2017
A call to renew, revive, reorganise, Jason Woo is Methodist Message’s Editorial Executive. When not working on the latest articles, he enjoys long jogs and cuddling up with his three cats along with a good book.
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n 10 and 11 Nov 2017, Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference (ETAC) met at Tamil Methodist Church (TMC) on Short Street for its 42nd Session – an annual gathering of clergy and lay representatives of its various churches, to recount and evaluate initiatives and their own ministries in the current year, and to plan for the year ahead. The Session kicked off with an Opening Service that introduced ‘Emmanuel Thuthi’ (Thuthi means ‘Praise’ in Tamil) – a 29-member choir handpicked from ETAC’s eight Tamil churches (see message.methodist.org.sg for full member list). The group, last seen singing during Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung’s Consecration Service, was formally inducted as ETAC’s official worship group. Each member received a specially-made badge, personally presented by Bishop Dr Chong. ‘Emmanuel Thuthi’ then led the musical worship section of the service, with the exuberance and flamboyance that is the hallmark of ETAC and its congregation. Delivering his first Review as President of ETAC in the 11th Quadrennium, the Rev James Nagulan sounded the call for ETAC churches to “Renew, Revive, Reorganise, and Rebuild” – which is also the theme of the current Quadrennium for ETAC. Even as he painted a picture of hope and God’s providence over the past year, the President nevertheless exhorted the leadership and laity of ETAC to work together in several issues challenging the growth of the Tamil churches, and called all workers to combat these issues together, in a spirit of unity. The challenges ranged from maintaining church membership to church attendance, tithing, and expansion. The Rev Nagulan urged pastoral leaders to set aside all baggage, to humble themselves, and to seek the Lord in matters that were truly of import to building God’s Kingdom. He reiterated the need to have strategic planning and thinking in moving ETAC forward, and not to rely on past glories and victories, or practices that might have worked well in the past but are now obsolete. “Today, there are more independent Tamil churches than denominational churches. This is a completely different landscape compared to 40 years ago. Language and accessibility to churches are no longer an issue when it comes to finding a church to worship… we need to rethink our strategies and plan accordingly.” The Rev Nagulan continued by highlighting two different schools of thought when it comes to “enlarging our tents”. The first focused on planting more new churches and increasing the number of churches within ETAC, while the other championed consolidating churches into specific geographical locations, so as to have access to a better pool of resources. As he delivered a realistic picture of the ground situations faced by both the outreach ministries in Ang Mo Kio and Pasir Panjang – that they have not seen significant growth over the years – the President surmised that expanding without a robust strategic vision and relying on the current model of having eight churches might not be viable and sustainable, due to various reasons. These included the facts that the ministries in Ang Mo Kio, Pasir Panjang, and even the Bedok Preaching Point largely served a transient community, changing the dynamics of the church whenever they leave the country; the lack of suitable locations to establish a place of worship; and low membership. Most importantly, there is a dearth of ministers and pastors who are able to
The Rev James Nagulan chairing ETAC’s 42nd Session.
efficiently serve these congregations due to limited manpower, and as a result, they find themselves having to shuttle between churches, rendering their ministries less effective. “We already face difficulties in identifying leaders for the existing churches. [If we further stretch] these leaders, they either [become] ineffective or soon move out from the main church and give themselves to new endeavours, weakening the ministry in the main church,” warned the Rev Nagulan, who also highlighted the strains faced by lay leaders who have to divide their time between work, serving the congregation, and their own families. “With the current situation of the Conference, we need to make some tough decisions if we really want to grow… The current churches may have to be moved to strategic locations, making our presence [more] accessible… Perhaps [even] seven churches is more than what we can manage. We have to work towards having one pastor to a church,” urged the President. With one eye on local church dynamics, the Rev Nagulan also kept an eye on the larger role that ETAC has to play in Singapore society – particularly amongst the Indian communities both local and foreign. “The Tamil-speaking Christian community is a small one in Singapore. Nevertheless, we Tamil Methodist churches [still] have much more to offer them by virtue of our presence over the decades within the community.” The Rev Nagulan spoke of SEVA – a collaborative ministry between ETAC and the Methodist Welfare Services (MWS) to reach out
and rebuild and engage with Indian migrant workers that they might experience the love of Christ and also have their homesickness alleviated – as a prime example of ETAC contributing to being a blessing to others. However, he also noted that SEVA is still in its infancy, and urged that more support be given to this valuable and important ministry. Additionally, he highlighted that more can be done to further equip pastors and church members, such as having them undergo training to be counsellors for the general community, and not just Tamil-speaking believers. “Many non-Christians have requested for solemnisation of their weddings, and are willing to attend marriage preparation classes. Family-life counselling is another idea where we can provide support to the community. The MWS has made available the Family Development Programme which gives us another opportunity to reach out to the larger Indian community,” said the Rev Nagulan. In conclusion, the President re-emphasised the importance of having and keeping the spirit of unity within the Annual Conference, and encouraged both clergy and laity to be aligned as they stepped into the year ahead. “Let us work towards the renewing of our covenant, humbly seeking God in prayer that He may bring a revival in our churches; that we may reorganise ourselves for God to build us up into an Annual Conference which will truly be a beacon of light to the city.” The two-day Session was rounded off with a Closing Service that doubled as a Memorial Service, where the congregation remembered the work and contributions of the late Rev Dr J. Daniel, a long-time ETAC pastor who served as President from 1984 to 1988, and passed away on 2 July 2017. (See MM Sep 2017 P17 for an
ETAC Appointments for 2018 Pastoral Appointments Ang Mo Kio Tamil Methodist Church
Pastor-In-Charge Rev Philip S. Abraham
Jurong Tamil Methodist Church
Pastor-In-Charge Rev Isaac Raju V.
Pasir Panjang Tamil Methodist Church
Seletar Tamil Methodist Church
Sembawang Tamil Methodist Church
Tamil Methodist Church, Short Street
Pastor-In-Charge Rev R. Prabhu Assistant Pastor Mr Stephen Shadrak Pastor-In-Charge Rev James Nagulan Assistant Pastor Rev C. Saravana Kumar Pastor-In-Charge Rev Albert Vijay Joseph Pastor-In-Charge Rev James Nagulan Associate Pastor Rev Anil Kumar Samuel
Singapore Telugu Methodist Church
Pastor-In-Charge Rev Anil Kumar Samuel
Toa Payoh Tamil Methodist Church
Pastor-In-Charge Rev Albert Vijay Joseph
Special Appointments District Superintendent
Rev Philip S. Abraham
Ministry at Christalite Home
Rev Isaac Raju V.
Ministry at Bethany Home
Rev C. Saravana Kumar
Director for Youth Work
Mr Thangaraju Moses
The 29-member ‘Emmanuel Thuthi’ choir was formally inducted at ETAC’s Opening Service. METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2018
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CAC 42ND SESSION: 13-16 NOV 2017
ETAC 42ND SESSION: 10-11 NOV 2017
article in his memory.) The Rev Nagulan and Bishop Emeritus Dr Robert Solomon gave a eulogy and a sermon respectively, touching on the servant heart and simple faith that the late Rev Dr Daniel possessed. In his eulogy, the Rev Nagulan looked back on how the late Rev Dr Daniel touched the lives of those he met. “I have witnessed his actions and learnt from him how to endure patiently some of the pains of ministry… as a young pastor, you sometimes wonder why some people are so unkind. However, the Rev Dr Daniel would say, ‘Don’t worry about those accusations; just pray. God is with us. Pray for God’s mercy on your people.’ That was the Rev Dr Daniel – forgiving, generous in love, and encouraging.” Bishop Emeritus Dr Solomon shared: “During his later years, he was aware that the world was changing rapidly. In certain ways, he found comfort in holding on to things that do not change – like his faith and trust in God. He chose not to keep up with technological changes, never using laptops or mobile phones… He was in many ways an old-fashioned person, which provided him with steady wisdom and a sense of duty… He would share his concerns for the church and various issues faced by the church, but ever so quietly and subtly.” In honour of the late Rev Dr Daniel, his wife Mary was presented with a cash gift, and a specially-prepared book containing various testimonials from church members and staff who had been in contact with him. n
At the Opening Service: Bishop Dr Chong giving the sermon (left), and the Rev Nagulan leading in prayer (right).
Bishop Emeritus Dr Solomon giving the sermon at ETAC’s Closing and Memorial Service.
Photos by Daniel Lie, courtesy of Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference
Amidst Church gr Commission Grace Toh is the Editor of Methodist Message and a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church.
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he Rev Dr Gregory Goh Nai Lat began his inaugural President’s Report by thanking the Chinese Annual Conference (CAC), gathered at its 42nd Session at Foochow Methodist Church from 13-16 Nov 2017, for its support and encouragement in his first year of adjusting to his new role as CAC President. He spoke passionately about keeping the Church’s focus on its responsibility in winning souls for Christ – a passion echoed the night before in his sermon during the Opening Service. “Why does the Church exist?” he had then asked. “Many meetings and conferences we hold are intended to fulfil the Great Commission; however, I fear we get so caught up in all these peripherals that we forget our commission.” The President acknowledged in his Report that “with the growing organisational structure of the Church, more time and energy is used on administration, and the upkeep of the structure also requires more governance. These are all good, yet they should not usurp our concerns and passion for evangelism! Do we invest similar time and energy in saving souls?” In his sermon, the Rev Dr Goh noted that Methodism’s founder John Wesley had similar concerns. “You have nothing to do but to save souls,” Wesley wrote in his 12 rules to preachers. “Therefore spend and be spent in this work.” Wesley added: “Observe, it is not your business to preach so many times, and to take care merely of this or that Society, but to save as many souls as you can, to bring as many sinners as you possibly can to repentance, and, with all your power, to build them up in that holiness without which they cannot see the Lord.” Evangelism, emphasised the CAC President, is one of the fundamentals of Methodism. Reflected Wesley in his Journal (24 June 1759): “What marvel the devil does not love field preaching? Neither do I: I love a commodious room, a soft cushion, a handsome pulpit. But where is my zeal, if I do not trample all these under foot, in order to save one more soul?” Said the Rev Dr Goh: “In the days ahead, we will deal with many reports and decisions. Let us not forget the reason we do all these: To bring people into the kingdom of heaven. We should not just be focusing on being a better organisation.” He offered the following questions for reflection: What is the link to evangelism for every ministry? How can we make adjustments so we can better execute the Lord’s Great Commission for us?
owth, remember the Great A milestone move for the CAC in this Session was the setting up of a fourth district. “Connectionalism is important to the Methodist Church,” explained the Rev Dr Goh. One way this is expressed is through the conducting of local conferences by district superintendents. “The District Superintendent is key to the connection between the Annual Conference and the local churches. Our district superintendents are not full-time but have their own congregations to lead and pastor, hence a smaller district will enable them to better execute their duties, so as to promote cooperation, learning, and complementary functions among the local churches.” In this way, the President hoped to encourage churches to work together. A recurrent concern is the renewal of ordained ministers, particularly with more pastors facing retirement soon. Training and development for pastors should also be given sufficient attention, said the Rev Dr Goh, pointing out rapid changes in society and the emphasis laid by the Government on self-development and improvement through awarding SkillsFuture credits. He also noted that joining the pastoral ministry should not be seen as a ‘second-choice career’, or a ‘back-up plan’. “Send your best children to be pastors!” he urged. He thanked God for the ordinands joining the ministry, and congratulated the Rev Dr Edwin Tay on his appointment as Vice-Principal of Trinity Theological College from January 2018. The President was pleased to note that in 2017, the CAC was able to appoint pastors to be chaplains in every Methodist school. These appointed pastors had affirmed the need for this ministry to students, even requesting to remain as chaplains when they were posted to other churches. “Even if our churches are not close to a Methodist school, we can still serve,” exhorted the Rev Dr Goh, “by providing Christian Ministry Staff, as Trinity Annual Conference does.” He also mentioned the CAC’s official visit to churches and a Bible school in Guizhou, China, which he had earlier detailed in his Opening Service sermon, highlighting how British Methodist Samuel Pollard had made an indelible mark on the community there even in the deep forests, where he devised the script for the indigenous Miao language (which was instrumental in the translation of Bible texts for other minorities), and established schools and medical services. “Within a span of 10 years, he changed the lives of the Miao people,” shared the Rev Dr Goh. Both the CAC pastors who retired at the Closing Service on 16 Nov 2017, the Rev Wong Yeow Lin and the Rev Daniel Lee Kuan Yong, also spoke of their retirement plans to engage in evangelism ministry. Said the Rev Wong, whose birthday coincided with her retirement: “As a pastor, I found myself having to delegate the work of evangelism to others rather than doing it myself. Now, after retirement, I can do what I always wanted to do – evangelise.” The Rev Lee added: “Like the Rev Wong, I have a passion for evangelism. Pray that as I retire, I can use this passion to reach out to more people for Jesus Christ!”
At the Closing Service, the Rev Lui Yuan Tze, the Rev Eric Soh Wai Foon, and the Rev Lau Chong Yaw were ordained as Elders. Pastor Cynthia Choo Bee Lay was ordained as Deacon. Before the reading of appointments for 2018 (refer to appointments listing), the CAC President spoke about the pastoral appointment system as part of the connectional Church. “I’ve seen how God uses this connectional system to grow the Church and extend His kingdom,” he said. The CAC’s four District Superintendents in 2018 are: The Rev Philip Lim Kian Leong (District 1), the Rev Poh Heow Lee (District 2), the Rev Goh Aik Hiang (District 3), and the Rev Dr Niam Kai Huey (District 4). The Rev Dr Goh also announced the passing away of the Rev Dr Yap Kim Hao, the first elected Asian Bishop of the Methodist Church in Malaysia and Singapore, that very morning (see inset article on P10). Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung led in a prayer for the late Rev Dr Yap’s family. n
The Rev Dr Goh Nai Lat chairing CAC’s 42nd Session.
Above: Retiring pastors the Rev Daniel Lee Kuan Yong (second from left), and the Rev Wong Yeow Lin (second from right).
The ordination of (from left) the Rev Lau Chong Yaw, the Rev Eric Soh, and the Rev Lui Yuan Tze.
The Rev Cynthia Choo (second from right) after her ordination as Deacon. Photos by Hon Chee Seng METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2018
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CAC 42ND SESSION: 13-16 NOV 2017 2018年 委任表 CAC Appointments for 2018 第一教区 District 1 教区长：林建隆牧师 DS: Rev Philip Lim Kian Leong 1. 芽笼堂 Geylang Chinese Methodist Church 主理 Pastor-in-charge 程文喜牧师 Rev Paul Thian Moon Hee 传道 Preacher 何秀芳传道 Pr Jacqueline Ho Sow Fong 2. 巴耶黎峇堂／巴耶礼峇美以美宣教站 Paya Lebar CMC /Paya Lebar M Mission 主理 Pastor-in-charge 许亚才牧师 Rev Dr David Koh Ah Chye 协理 Associate Pastor 陈杨丽旋牧师 Rev Tan Yeo Lay Suan, 张建温牧师 Rev Daniel Teoh Kean Oon, 雷远智牧师 Rev Lui Yuan Tze 助理 Assistant Pastor 曾国华牧师 Rev Patrick Chen Guek Fah 3. 樟宜堂 / 榜鹅宣教站事工 Changi MC/Punggol Preaching Point Project 主理 Pastor-in-charge 石训深牧师 Rev Simon Cheo Hsun Shen 4. 颂恩堂 Charis Methodist Church 主理 Pastor-in-charge 协理 Associate Pastor 助理 Assistant Pastor
沈圣奇牧师 Rev Jasper Sim Shenq Chyi 曾国俊牧师 Rev Chan Kok Chuon 崔平和牧师 Rev Peace Choi Pyong Hwa
5. 盛港堂 Sengkang Methodist Church 主理 Pastor-in-charge 严家慧牧师 Rev Dr Niam Kai Huey 协理 Associate Pastor 宾昇泰牧师 Rev Peter Pan Seng Tai, 梅国耀牧师 Rev Boey Kok Yeow
特别委任表 Special Appointments 会督特别委任本年议会教牧 卫理宣教会主任： 林建隆牧师 （隶属教会：芽笼堂） 宣教士： 庄炳亮牧师、李文英牧师、 崔基得牧师 (无薪休假) ‘门徒’机构主任： 严家慧牧师（博士）义务） 学校圣工副主任： 陆永德牧师 卫理公会学校 陆永德牧师、黄明娇牧师、 校牧： 陈杨丽旋牧师、薛庆达牧师、 梅国耀牧师、许亚才牧师、 杨显辉牧师、陈英意牧师、 程文喜牧师、许立欣牧师、 林恩信牧师、石训深牧师、 雷远智牧师、曾国华牧师、 周美丽牧师、崔平和牧师、 尤永深牧师、陈书铭传道、 胡文莹传道、吴钧杰传道 会长特别委任 三一神学院副院长: 三一神学院讲师:
第二教区 District 2 教区长：傅後利牧师 DS: Rev Poh Heow Lee 1. 直落亚逸堂／直落亚逸第二礼拜堂 Telok Ayer CMC / TA2 主理 Pastor-in-charge 蔡伟山牧师 Rev Chua Ooi Suah 传道 Preacher 陈新坚牧师 Rev Joshua Tan Sin Kian, 薛庆达牧师 Rev Seet Keng Tat 2. 武吉班让堂 Bukit Panjang Methodist Church 主理 Pastor-in-charge 陸永德牧师 Rev Lek Yong Teck 协理 Associate Pastor 杨显辉牧师 Rev Yeung Hin Fai, 黄明娇牧师 Rev Ng Beng Keow 陈英意牧师 Rev Erick Tan Eng Ghee 3. 恩典堂 Grace Methodist Church 主理 Pastor-in-charge 协理 Associate Pastor 助理 Assistant Pastor
吴毅华牧师 Rev Andy Goh Yik Wah 苏伟峰牧师 Rev Eric Soh Wai Foon 尤永深牧师 Rev Ian Jew Yun Shern
4. 恩约堂 Holy Covenant Methodist Church 主理 Pastor-in-charge 许立欣牧师 Rev Edmund Koh Lik Hng
第三教区 District 3 教区长: 吴奕贤牧师 DS: Rev Goh Aik Hiang 1. 福灵堂 Foochow Methodist Church 主理 Pastor-in-charge 傅後利牧师 Rev Poh Heow Lee 协理 Associate Pastor 江宗大牧师 Rev Christopher Louis Kong Chung Dai 林爱莉牧师 Rev Anne Lim Ai Lei 传道 Preacher 胡文莹传道 Pr Stefanie Oh Wen-Ying, 吴钧杰传道 Pr Jasper Ngoh Jun Jie 2. 天道堂 Hinghwa Methodist Church 主理 Pastor-in-charge 协理 Associate Pastor 助理 Assistant Pastor
陈元昌牧师 Rev Chin Yan Chong 周伟平牧师 Rev Chu Vee Ping 苏圻利牧师 Rev Peter Soh Kee Lie
3. 感恩堂／感恩堂（兀兰） Kum Yan MC / Kum Yan MC (Woodland) 主理 Pastor-in-charge 简文石牧师 Rev Herman Kan Man Shek 4. 天恩堂 Hakka Methodist Church 主理 Pastor-in-charge 协理 Associate Pastor
周永斌牧师 Rev Nathanael Chew Eng Pin 林恩信牧师 Rev Irman Halim
5. 义顺北宣堂 Yishun Methodist Mission 主理 Pastor-in-charge 刘昌耀牧师 Rev Lau Chong Yaw 传道 Preacher 陈书铭传道 Pr Glenn Tan Tze Meng
第四教区 District 4 教区长: 严家慧牧师 DS: Rev Dr Niam Kai Huey 1. 女皇镇堂 Queenstown Chinese Methodist Church 主理 Pastor-in-charge 吴奕贤牧师 Rev Goh Aik Hiang 协理 Associate Pastor 俞丽馨牧师 Rev Lisa Yu Li Hsin, 吴丽真牧师 Rev Tack Ng Lai Chun 2. 宏茂桥堂 Ang Mo Kio Chinese Methodist Church 主理 Pastor-in-charge 何秋吟牧师 Rev Helen Hoe Chiew Ngin 协理 Associate Pastor 周美丽牧师 Rev Cynthia Choo Bee Lay 3. 大巴窑堂 Toa Payoh Chinese Methodist Church 主理 Pastor-in-charge 林天源牧师 Rev Ling Tieng Ngung 协理 Associate Pastor 许就凯牧师 Rev Koh Chew Hai
郑益民牧师（博士） （隶属教会：直落亚逸堂） 何威达牧师（博士） （隶属教会：女皇镇堂至6月）
白瑞健牧师（博士） （隶属教会：颂恩堂） 四宗乐龄学院义务院长： 邱仁发牧师（义务） 华人年议会三一神学生 何威达牧师（博士）、 院牧： 副院牧： 白瑞健牧师（博士）、郑益民牧师（博士） 安息年及进修： 廖惠安牧师（一年）、 周永斌牧师（三个月） 监狱事工： 庄修先牧师（义务） 病假： 蔡尚志牧师 孙鸿岐奖学金信托基金 韩海光先生 代表： CAC Pastors‘ Special Appointment by Bishop Methodist Missions Society Rev Philip Lim Kian Leong Executive Director: (Local Church Attachment: Geylang CMC) Missionaries to Thailand: Rev Dr Alex Chng, Rev Cassandra Lee and Rev Gideon Choi Gi Deug (unpaid leave) Director of ‘DISCIPLE’ Agency: Rev Dr Niam Kai Huey (Honorary) Associate Director of Rev Lek Yong Teck Christian Ministry in Schools: Methodist School Chaplains: Rev Lek Yong Teck, Rev Ng Beng Keow, Rev Tan-Yeo Lay Suan, Rev Seet Keng Tat, Rev Boey Kok Yeow, Rev Dr David Koh Ay Chye, Rev Yeung Hin Fei, Rev Erick Tan Eng Ghee, Rev Paul Thian, Rev Edmund Koh Lik Hng, Rev Irman Halim, Rev Simon Cheo Hsun Shen, Rev Lui Yuan Tze, Rev Patrick Chen Guek Fah, Rev Cynthia Choo Bee Lay, Rev Peace Choi, Rev Dr Ian Jew Yun Shern, Pr Jasper Ngoh, Pr Glenn Tan Tze Meng, Pr Stefanie Oh Wen-Ying Special Appointment by President Trinity Theological College Rev Dr Edwin Tay Ed Min vice principle: (Local Church Attachment: Telok Ayer CMC) Lecturers at Trinity Rev Dr Wilfred Ho Wai Tat Theological College: (Local Church Attachment: Queenstown CMC till Jun) Rev Dr Andrew Peh Swee Kian (Local Church Attachment: Charis MC) Principal, Institute of Elderly: Rev Khoo Cheng Hoot (Honorary) Chaplains to CAC Students at Rev Dr Wilfred Ho Wai Tat Trinity Theological College: Rev Dr Andrew Peh Swee Kian (Associate) Rev Dr Edwin Tay Ed Min (Associate) Sabbatical Leave: Rev Wilfred Leow Hui Ann (1 year) Rev Nathanael Chew Eng Pin (3 months) Prison Ministry: Rev Chng Siew Sin (Honorary) Medical Leave: Rev Louis Chai Shung Chee Soon Hong Kee Scholarship Mr Han Hai Kwang Trust Fund Representative:
TRAC 42ND SESSION: 20-23 NOV 2017
Seeing opportunities amidst challenges Jason Woo is Methodist Message’s Editorial Executive. When not working on the latest articles, he enjoys long jogs and cuddling up with his three cats along with a good book.
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resenting his fifth President’s Address at the 42nd Session of Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) that took place at Wesley Methodist Church (Wesley MC) from 20 to 23 Nov 2017, the Rev Dr Gordon Wong highlighted four major challenges that loomed over the ministries of TRAC churches under The Methodist Church in Singapore (MCS). However, he cautioned against viewing the challenges as inconvenient obstacles, instead urging TRAC delegates to turn challenges into opportunities that the churches could use to further the message of Christ, and to spread His love amongst the populace. The four challenges were: ministering to the elderly; witnessing in a multi-religious society; working with and around stringent regulatory controls; and maintaining harmony and fostering positive interaction amongst the varied Protestant denominations. Ministry with, by, and for seniors “In June 2015, Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong projected that Singapore would be ‘growing older faster than nearly any other society in the world’. In other words, Singapore might be the fastest-ageing country in the world,” said the Rev Dr Wong. Instead of facing with trepidation the prospect of having to manage a greying population, and by extension, a greying congregation, the President exhorted TRAC churches to envision this current challenge as an opportunity to develop ministries that will be relevant and engaging to the elderly, and to meet their needs. “Wouldn’t it be great to hear people say, ‘The young adults of that church take such an active role in spending time with the older folks – singing, laughing, and listening to their stories about life in the 1960s. That church must be doing something right if it can inspire so many younger adults to care for their parents and the elderly,’” envisioned the Rev Dr Wong. He subsequently announced plans to introduce a full-time Developer of Seniors Ministry in TRAC churches. The proposal is currently being considered by the TRAC Executive Board. Ministry in a multi-religious Singapore The President next brought TRAC’s attention to the fact that Singapore has been ranked the top country with regard to religious diversity, according to a report by the Pew Research Center. The Center drew up an index that ranked 232 countries by their level of religious diversity. It saw Singapore achieving a score of 9.0 – a relatively large 0.8-point lead over Taiwan in second place, and 1.3 points ahead of third-placed Vietnam. The Rev Dr Wong also displayed a chart illustrating the observation that across Singapore households in 2015, a majority of other religions except Christianity are facing a steady decline
compared to figures from 2010. “The concern or perception that some of our inter-faith friends have about Christians ‘stealing their sheep’, so to speak, is one that we must be aware of, and sensitive to,” noted the President. In addition, the Rev Dr Wong also highlighted that alongside Christianity, the group with the largest percentage increase are those who declare no religious affiliation. “[This] presents us with the exciting opportunity of how to be witnesses of the love of Jesus for all peoples in the most religiously-diverse country in the world… witnesses that are ever-ready to explain why we put our hope in the Christian God, but we [must] do it ‘with gentleness and respect’... ‘regardless of language, race, or religion’.” The President made mention here of the good inter-faith work of the late Rev Dr Yap Kim Hao, a retired TRAC pastor who had recently passed on (see inset article). He announced that District Superintendent Rev Derrick Lau and the Rev Dr Lorna Khoo were representing TRAC at the Rev Dr Yap’s funeral which was taking place that very morning, and led the Conference in a moment of respectful silence. Ministry in the face of stringent regulations As with all religious bodies and charitable organisations in Singapore, the MCS and its churches, committees, councils, and agencies are subject to a set of stringent guidelines, rules, and regulations. While their existence is necessary to ensure good governance, the Rev Dr Wong cautioned the Conference not to allow them to suck out the joy of ministry, in the process of compliance. He referenced one particular encounter with a donor who praised the Methodist Church for having a fine system of financial checks and controls, such that he felt reassured that his donation would be properly administered. “The challenge, therefore, is to keep improving our financial and governance controls in ways that allow responsible ministry to take place freely; to be stringent without stifling the joy of ministry,” reminded the Rev Dr Wong. “How? Perhaps one way is to design forms or procedures that make it easy for any person with absolutely no accounting or governance competence to follow.” He gave the analogy of an IT executive who should not only know how to keep computers regularly updated and protected from viruses, or send monthly reminders to install the latest virus protection update, but also use his IT expertise to design a step-by-step guide to help any user easily install the necessary protection update. “So here is the challenge or ministry opportunity: to maintain or improve our stringent compliance with financial governance, by helping all Chairpersons of our Committees and Boards – of
METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2018
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In Memoriam: The Rev Dr Yap Kim Hao (1929 – 2017) The Opening Service of TRAC’s 42nd Session saw the Annual Conference observing a moment of silence for the late Rev Dr Yap Kim Hao, who passed away on 16 Nov 2017 at the age of 88. The Rev Dr Yap was the first Asian Bishop of the Methodist Church in Malaysia and Singapore from 1968 to 1973. He retired from active service in 1994. During his days as Bishop, the Rev Dr Yap paved the way for the formation of the MCS after Singapore gained its independence in 1965. He was also fiercely dedicated to social issues, immersed himself deeply in theological study, and engaged in pastoral care with a great passion. The Rev Dr Yeow Choo Lak, a close friend of the late Rev Dr Yap, penned a moving tribute recounting the moment that the Rev Dr Yap’s passion to serve the community was ignited by a sermon based on the Book of Amos, preached by the Rev Ralph Kesselring, Principal of Anglo-Chinese School (Ipoh) in the 1950s. One particular quote that the Rev Kesselring used resonated with the young Rev Dr Yap: “But let justice roll down like waters, and righteousness like an ever-flowing stream.” (Amos 5:24) Years later, the Rev Dr Yap would receive the exact same typewritten sermon from the Rev Kesselring’s daughter. This was the moment he felt that God had defined and laid out the route map of his ministry, which would span decades and leave a lasting legacy. The late Rev Dr Yap is survived by his wife, four children, grandchildren, and a great-grandchild. A condolence letter was presented to his family on behalf of the MCS, alongside letters from the World Federation of Chinese Methodist Churches, and The Methodist Church, Hong Kong.
Missions, or Evangelism, or Social Concerns, or Youth Ministry – obtain the necessary protection in today’s world where everything and everyone is at risk,” added the Rev Dr Wong. Ministry amidst Protestant diversity While the previous challenges or opportunities highlighted by the President were external in nature, the last one on his list requires Methodist churches to work with one another and with other Protestant denominations in order to minister effectively and fruitfully. Navigating through the differences and diversities that are present within the various denominations with grace, poise, and sensitivity, can be a daunting prospect. The Rev Dr Wong referenced the 500th Anniversary of the Reformation events that gave rise to the Protestant movement. He noted that as Methodism was birthed from the Protestant stream, so too were the other major denominations we know today, with many more coming into being even to this day simply due to disagreements over certain aspects of Christianity and its practices. “This is a challenge that still confronts us today. How do Christian churches witness to the world in one united voice their agreement on the amazing love of Christ, when we still disagree, and regard it our spiritual duty to disagree, on so many significant aspects of Christian faith and practice?” asked the Rev Dr Wong.
TRAC 42ND SESSION: 20-23 NOV 2017 He continued, “The challenge – or opportunity – is to demonstrate how we can remain ‘OnTRAC Together’ without making uniformity of belief and practice in everything a necessary starting point. United ministry in the midst of acknowledged diversity and disagreement would be a striking example of witness that shows love and respect for someone who does not share our views on some matters.” “Everyone has a right to disagree. But no one has a right to be disagreeable.” The Rev Dr Wong then proceeded to mention some current and upcoming ministry collaborations which exemplified his vision of not just TRAC churches, but also the rest of the Methodist family, coming together and working towards the benefit of the Methodist community. He highlighted The Giving Methodist initiative, which will culminate during Lent season in 2018 with a call to all churches within MCS to give of their time, money, and voices in support of various social concerns. This will display what the President described as “…a clear Methodist distinctive: to show practical love and social concern for those who are faced with special challenges in our society.” He also highlighted the current sharing of spaces within certain TRAC churches to house congregations from the other Annual Conferences, such as the Toa Payoh Tamil Methodist Church having their worship service every Sunday afternoon in the Toa Payoh Methodist Church premises, and Pasir Panjang Tamil Methodist Church having their Teck Whye ministry arm meetings in the Methodist Church of the Incarnation. On a national scale, the Rev Dr Wong also shone the spotlight on MCS’ involvement in chairing the organisation of the 2018 GoForth National Missions Conference, as a key milestone in establishing and maintaining good working relations with the other denominations in Singapore, with regard to the ministry of missions. “It is my hope that despite disagreements and diversity of practice, we can [work] together for God’s wonders to be experienced and received by many more,” concluded the President. 2018 Appointments and Ordination Amidst the soaring voices of the Wesley Combined Choir and the enthralling scores performed by the Wesley Soli Deo Gloria Orchestra, the congregants at the Closing Service witnessed the ordination of six individuals as Deacons and Elders (pic on P11). Pastor Benjamin Fong and Pastor David Ho Seng Hian were ordained as Deacons, while the Rev Ian Lee, the Rev Ling Kin Yew, the Rev Jeremy Ong, and the Rev Jason Phua were ordained as Elders. The service concluded with the reading of appointments for 2018 (refer to the appointments listing) by the TRAC President and the four District Superintendents – the Rev Paul Nga (District 1), the Rev Derrick Lau (District 2), the Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun (District 3), and the Rev Stanley Chua (District 4). Earlier during the Opening Service on 20 Nov 2017, TRAC recognised the work of the Rev Philip Lim Min Hock (above), who was retiring in December 2017 after 28 years of service. The Rev Lim will be subsequently re-engaged as Pastor at Wesley MC with effect from January 2018. n
TRAC Appointments for 2018 District One District Superintendent: Rev Paul Nga
Barker Road MC
Bedok MC
Christalite MC Christ MC
Kampong Kapor MC
Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor Pastor Assistant Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor Assistant Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Assistant Pastor
Rev Dr Chiu Ming Li Rev Lawrence Chua Rev Wendy Watson Rev Jeremy Ong Rev Benjamin Fong Rev Khoo Kay Huat Rev David Gwee Rev Lee Yam Kai Pastor Byron Teo Rev Dr Peter Wong Rev Dr Daniel Koh Rev Vincent Goh Rev Barnabas Chong Rev Shaun Chong Rev Kenneth Huang Rev Gabriel Liew Pastor Poh Zhi-Hui
District Two District Superintendent: Rev Derrick Lau Ang Mo Kio MC
Living Hope MC Methodist Church of the Incarnation
Paya Lebar MC
Pentecost MC
Trinity MC
Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor Assistant Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor Pastor Pastor Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Assistant Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor Assistant Pastor
Rev Melvin Huang Rev Lee Yam Kai Rev Anthony Lee Pastor Collin See Rev Ivan Tan Rev Joshua Loo Rev Edmund Koh Rev Clarence Lee Rev Dr Jonathan Seet Bshp Em Dr Wee Boon Hup Rev Lynette Sathiasingam Rev Christopher Chin Rev Irene Thung Rev Wendy Tay Rev Lai Kai Ming Rev Jason Phua Pastor Jacob Lim Rev Alvin Chan Rev Paul Nga Rev Sng Chong Hui Pastor Timothy Yong
District Three District Superintendent: Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun Agape MC Cairnhill MC Fairfield MC Toa Payoh MC
Wesley MC
Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Assistant Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor Pastor Pastor Pastor Assistant Pastor Assistant Pastor
Rev Nga Mee Hee Rev Lim Jen Huat Rev William Sam Rev Daniel Terence Yeo Rev Daniel Cornilius Tan Rev Ling Kin Yew Rev Reuben Ng Rev Ming Feong Ching Pastor Eddie Ho Rev Stanley Chua Rev Edmund de Souza Rev Philip Lim Rev Michael Tan Rev Benjamin Lee Rev Gladwin Lee Rev Adrian Ng Rev David Ho Seng Hian
District Four District Superintendent: Rev Stanley Chua Aldersgate MC Covenant Community MC
Faith MC
Holland Village MC Living Waters MC
Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor Pastor Pastor Assistant Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor Pastor-in-Charge Pastor
Rev Dr Lorna Khoo Rev David Ho Gim Pin Rev Malcolm Tan Rev Fred Tan Rev Ian Lee Rev Raymond Fong Rev Derrick Lau Rev John Benedict Foo Rev Peter Koh Rev See Swee Fang Pastor Anthony Phua Rev Joel Yong Rev Loretta Lim Rev Aaron Tay Rev Chan Siew Chye
Special Appointments Director, Truthmin Director of Young Adults Ministry Assistant Directors, Youth Ministry Director, Lay Equipping and Development Institute (LEAD) Director, Seniors' Ministry TRAC Crisis Relief Coordinator Chaplain to TRAC TTC Students Lecturers, Trinity Theological College On Sabbatical Leave Staff Development Programme Study Leave Coordinator Peranakan/Indonesian Ministry
Rev Raymond Fong Rev Ivan Tan Rev Shaun Chong Rev Gladwin Lee Rev Ian Lee Rev Ming Feong Ching Rev Irene Thung Rev Jason Phua Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun Rev Dr Daniel Koh Rev Dr Chiang Ming Shun Rev Dr Kow Shih Ming Rev Lilian Ang Rev Bernard Chao Rev Edwin Wong Rev Chia Chin Nam Rev Jimmy Wong
Appointments Made Through the Bishop’s Office Director, Ministry in Schools Associate Director, Ministry in Schools
Rev Aaron Tay Rev William Sam Rev Anthony Lee
Methodist Missions Society (Jan 2018) Area Director, Cambodia, Thailand & Vietnam Missionary Pastor (East Asia) Missionary Pastor (East Asia) MMS Area Director, Timor-Leste & Laos Training Consultant Missionary Pastor (Vietnam)
Rev Dianna Khoo Rev Tan Cheok Kian Rev Tay Kay Leong Rev Teresa Wilborn Rev Malcolm Tan Rev Leslie Lim
Ordained ministers, L-R: The Rev Benjamin Fong, the Rev Ian Lee, the Rev Ling Kin Yew, the Rev Jeremy Ong, the Rev Jason Phua, and the Rev David Ho Seng Hian. Photos courtesy of Trinity Annual Conference METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2018
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REFORMATION 500: REPRISE
Lessons from the Reformation Dr Anthony Goh Sze Chern is Chairperson of the Council on Communications, and a member of Bedok Methodist Church. He had the privilege of visiting the Reformationrelated sites mentioned below, and contributed photos of them for this article. He and his wife Hui Ling conduct Marriage Enrichment and Preparation Courses, and enjoy ballroom dancing.
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n the October 2017 issue of Methodist Message, we asked: “What impact and significance could a movement that happened 500 years ago have on us today?” Among several articles, books, and talks that attempted to answer this question, a resounding response was given by Bishop Emeritus Dr Robert Solomon at his four-hour talk, ‘The Bible and the Reformation: Lessons for Today’, on 28 Oct 2017 at the Bible House (see below pic). It was over-subscribed and the venue was packed to standing-room-only. In his signature articulate and concise way, Bishop Emeritus Dr Solomon took the participants through the historical, theological, economic, cultural, technological, and socio-political events that led to and ensured the promulgation of the Protestant Reformation in the 15th century. He also explained how the various denominations came about, and gave insightful warnings on current church trends. In candid style, he peeled back the layers to reveal insightful truths and lessons. The lecture started by painting the broad background of the state of thinking at the time of the Reformation. Two hundred years before Martin Luther, the English theologian John Wycliffe had already encouraged a high view of Scripture; as far back as the 12th century, Peter Waldo, a spiritual leader in the Middle Ages, had expressed the same views, and was severely persecuted for it. A century before Luther, John Hus (‘Hus the goose’), a Bohemian preacher, was burnt at the stake as a heretic for teaching that the Bible was the standard for faith and practice. His prophetic words at his death were: “You have cooked this goose, but in a hundred years, a swan will rise from its ashes.” The writings of Hus and these others greatly influenced Luther, and laid the reformation egg that Luther later hatched. This was combined with a confluence of several situational factors. Firstly, there were many things wrong with the Church at the time, with clerical and ecclesiastical abuse such as simony (the buying and selling of a spiritual office, act, or privilege, such as pardons) and incompetence. The Holy Roman Empire of the time was also facing a decline brought about by years of war. In fact, the Empire was not an empire, it was not in Rome, nor was it entirely holy.
An epidemic of the bubonic plague was killing one-third of the population, and made the focus on death very real; the church was focused on helping people to ‘die well’. Lastly, there was also a cultural Renaissance, fuelled by the import of Greek manuscripts by the Crusaders, and the desire to emulate the greatness of the ancient Greek arts. In these manuscripts, scholars such as Erasmus discovered, for example, that the teaching on purgatory was not found in the original Greek writings. Luther was a law student in Erfurt before a lifechanging event led him to become an Augustinian monk. Thereafter, he would famously paste his 95 Theses for debate on the door of the Castle Church in Wittenburg on the eve of All Saints’ Day. That is why we now commemorate Reformation Day on 31 Oct each year. Among the points Luther put up for discussion were the sale of indulgences to waive time spent in purgatory for those who have died. It was taught then that Christians would get to heaven by our good deeds, but we could never do enough, so there was a place where Christians had to go to purge the remainder of their sins, called purgatory. At that time, Pope Leo X wanted to build a new Basilica in Rome and needed to raise funds. There was also a need to absolve Crusader soldiers from the sin of killing. Indulgences were thus sold to Christians as a form of ‘get out of jail’ coupon; these could be bought in advance for oneself, or transferred to another person.
The room and desk at Wartburg Castle where Luther translated the Bible into vernacular German.
The timing of the 95 Theses meant that many people would see it the next day, being All Saints’ Day where many could go to the Castle Church for Mass. It caused a stir among the people, and a new technology helped the news ‘go viral’ – the Gutenberg Printing Press. This invention allowed a German vernacular translation of the 95 Theses to be accurately and quickly reproduced and disseminated; it spread throughout Germany within a fortnight. As the news spread like wildfire, word reached the Pope who summoned Luther to Rome for questioning. However, Luther had a patron and protector in the form of Frederick the Wise, who was one of seven Electors of the Holy Roman Emperor. The Elector persuaded the Pope to have a debate in Leipzig, where John Eck faced Luther; this was attended by many scholars, who were impressed with Luther. Although the debate ended in a tie, Luther was excommunicated from the Church. Later, at the Diet (assembly) of Worms (a German city) presided over by the Holy Roman Emperor, Luther famously declared: “I am bound by the Scriptures I have quoted and my conscience is captive to the Word of God. I cannot and will not recant anything, since it is neither safe nor right to go against conscience. May God help me. Amen.” On his way back from the Diet, Luther was ‘kidnapped’ by Frederick the Wise to prevent his assassination. He was taken to Wartburg Castle in disguise for safety, where he lived for a time and translated the Bible into German. This translation was so influential that much of the German language used today takes reference from it, akin to how famous phrases in William Tyndall’s English translation were used in the King James’ Version, and has influenced the English language today. With the support of the people and the protection of Frederick the Wise, Luther continued to promulgate his teachings. He and his contemporaries such as Ulrich Zwingli and John Calvin continued to preach and encourage Christians to refer to the Bible as the authority to measure all teachings against. It was also at this time that various other teachings developed, such as those of the Anabaptists and Mennonites. From these thoughts, theologians describe the ‘Five Solas’: Sola Scriptura, Sola Fide, Sola Gracia, Sola Christus, and Soli Deo Gloria (through Scripture alone, through faith alone, through grace alone, through Christ alone, and Glory only to God). It was essentially a ‘Back to Jesus’ movement. Emphasising the primacy of Scripture “dethroned the Pope and enthroned the Bible”, commented historian Roland H. Bainton; education was essential for this so that the people could read the Bible in their own vernacular, and schools were set up. That being said, there is an important role for the Church to clarify what the Bible has said, and synergise the Bible with daily life. In the warning words of John Dryden: The Book thus put in every vulgar (common) hand, Which each presum’d he best cou’d understand, The Common Rule was made the common Prey; And at the mercy of the Rabble lay.
This means that if left to each individual to interpret Scripture, it becomes a dangerous divisor as it can be easily read out of context and abused. In practice, this has led to the various denominations, as each group has chosen to see Scripture in a slightly different light; some say that in practice, this has meant that we have lost the authority of Scripture. The Reformers came up with four guidelines: Illumination of the Holy Spirit, Guidance from the Church Fathers (tradition), Catechisms (doctrines), and Discussions and Debates. The Wesleyan Quadrilateral of the Methodist Church more simply names Scripture, Tradition, Reason and Experience. Bishop Emeritus Dr Solomon also warned of traditionalism raising tradition into a religion, the dead faith of the living, whilst tradition itself is the living faith of the dead and something we can use to stand on the shoulders of spiritual giants. To abandon tradition outright is folly; we need to be able to discern the good with the help of the Holy Spirit. We need to be wise and continually reference Scripture in matters such as the sacraments and our dogma, doctrine, and discourse. In a way, the church is continually in a state of reformation, being refined by the Refiner’s fire. We must guard against teachings that take only part of the truth, or go against it. Soli Deo Gloria! n Event photo courtesy of The Bible Society® of Singapore Site photo courtesy of Dr Anthony Goh METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2018
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WELFARE SERVICES
Volunteering journeys with MWS By the Methodist Welfare Services Communications Team
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he spirit of volunteering comes in many forms, regardless of age, background or occupation. Two working professionals share their experiences as volunteers of Methodist Welfare Services (MWS). Turning her hobby into a gift of health Ms Ang Lay Hong has only been a volunteer with MWS Christalite Methodist Home (MWS CMH) for over a year, but her contributions are already moving many residents – literally. The 48-year-old finance director began her volunteering journey at the Home in 2016 by organising group birthday celebrations for the destitute residents. Every month, she would gather other volunteers to share the cost of a cake, and together, they would hold a simple but heart-warming gathering. “A few months ago, an elderly resident was so happy when we did that for him. He told me no one has celebrated his birthday before. Things like this keep me going,” recounted Lay Hong. Beyond throwing parties, Lay Hong wanted to do more. The Zumba dance-fitness enthusiast approached her instructors and friends about joining her as volunteers. After some planning, the group nailed down two Saturdays a month to hold mass Zumba Gold classes that are modified for older adults to focus on balance, range of motion, and coordination. When the Zumba Gold team kick-started sessions in September 2017, the residents were slow to warm up to the idea and mostly watched from the sidelines. However, after a few sessions, the instructors’ encouragement and infectious energy began to draw out more residents to join in the fun. Today, it is not surprising to see participants going to the front of the stage to follow the moves more closely, or to interact with the volunteers (top right pic). Heartened by the enthusiasm of the MWS CMH residents, Lay Hong added: “I believe in giving what I have to others, be it money, time, or any other form of support. I wish to see a change in our environment – more people caring for one another.” Going the extra mile with his professional expertise While many people would rather stay away from their day jobs in their spare time, dentist Dr Goh Siew Hor gamely puts his professional skills to good use once a month at MWS Bethany Nursing Home – Choa Chu Kang (MWS BNH). Despite his busy schedule, the 34-year-old spends half a day at the Home to fix, clean, and polish the residents’ teeth (pic above far right), seeing an average of 10 patients each time. Even more impressive is the fact that the young professional, who currently attends Ang Mo Kio Methodist Church, has been a volunteer at MWS BNH for more than 15 years.
Dr Goh’s volunteering journey began while he was in secondary school. Being a Methodist, he had wanted to find a Methodist organisation to serve at. He was flipping through the Yellow Pages when he found a listing for The Methodist Home for the Aged Sick, which was later renamed MWS BNH. He started by helping with feeding the residents, washing dishes, and chaperoning residents during their strolls around the neighbourhood. He also took the seniors out to Bethany Chapel’s Sunday service, and organised shopping mall outings on the weekends. On his passion in serving old folks, Dr Goh said: “Services that deal with children tend to have more volunteers. Not many want to work with the elderly, so this is where I feel I can contribute most.” Fifteen years on, his dedication to helping under-served seniors remains as strong as ever. He has forged strong ties with the MWS BNH residents, many of whom still view him as the friendly young boy he used to be. They are less afraid of dental sessions with him, and the nursing home would also ask him to care for the more difficult patients. Dr Goh plans to continue volunteering at MWS BNH as long as he can. “God has blessed us to be a blessing to others. He has blessed me richly so that I can share it with people. If I can help the least, the lost, and the last, it’s what God would want me to do.” n Start your volunteering journey this New Year! MWS has various centres and volunteering programmes to suit your inclinations, personal interests and commitment level. For more information on how you or your church can volunteer with MWS, please visit www.mws.sg or email volunteer@mws.sg. Photos courtesy of the Methodist Welfare Services METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2018
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METHODIST MESSAGE, JULY 2013
MISSIONS
The growth God grants Vincent Lim and Phyllis Zhou are missionaries in Thailand with the Methodist Missions Society (MMS) supported by Faith Methodist Church. Vincent is currently studying the Thai language while Phyllis cares for their two young children at home. The family is currently attached to the Methodist churches in Rangsit, Thailand.
“I planted, Apollos watered, but God gave the growth.” 1 Corinthians 3:6
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he story of Yun Xia’s conversion reminds us that indeed it is God who brings about spiritual growth.
Yun Xia is a fresh graduate from East Asia who has a deep desire to learn new things, and that is what brought her to Thailand – to learn the Thai language. When we first met her in Thailand, we were thankful that she was comfortable with us. Yun Xia attended the same Thai language class as Vincent, and that allowed us to get closer with each other as we spoke the same language. She followed us to church a few times, but we found that she was not yet ready to be a Christian, even though she had been exposed to the Gospel back home. During the short period of getting to know her, we saw that God was truly working in her heart, as He exposed her to more Christian friends who brought her to church, and who showed her the love of Jesus through acts of kindness and hospitality. We also prayed that we would reflect God’s love through keeping in touch with her, and constantly showing concern about her adjustment to Thailand. One night at the train station, Vincent came across what he thought was a stored-value card that someone had dropped. However, upon picking it up, he realised it was a card that taught the reader to say the sinner’s prayer! Immediately, Yun Xia came to his mind, but Vincent continued to wait for God’s prompting to act.
Vincent and Phyllis rejoice in the privilege of being God’s instruments in Thailand. That same week on a Sunday night, while preparing our prayer updates, Phyllis also pondered and prayed about when Yun Xia would accept Christ. It weighed especially heavy on her heart, since she felt that Yun Xia has been experiencing the love of God through many instances in her life. One morning, before the Thai language class started, Vincent finally received the prompting he had been waiting for. He asked Yun Xia: “Are you ready to accept Jesus as Lord and Saviour of your life?” Her reply was: “Yes, I am ready. There is really nothing much to ponder upon anymore.” We were awestruck by the Lord’s timing and His preparation. Indeed, we are privileged to be God’s instruments to reap the harvest for Him, be it in prayer or in person. Let us continue to pray for Yun Xia that the Lord will enable her to speak His Word with great boldness; to heal, and perform signs and wonders through the name of Jesus; and to be filled with the Holy Spirit while living out the Word of God boldly all the days of her life. Because you prayed with us, you reap with us! All glory to God! n
Photo courtesy of the Methodist Missions Society Picture by rachen/Bigstock.com METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2018
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METHODIST MESSAGE, AuGuST 2013
SOUNDINGS
Loving obedience Dr Roland Chia is Chew Hock Hin Professor of Christian Doctrine at Trinity Theological College and Theological and Research Advisor for the ETHOS Institute™ for Public Christianity (http://ethosinstitute.sg).
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t the beginning of the 19th century, the English poet Percy Bysshe Shelley declared that obedience is the “bane of all genius, virtue, freedom, truth,” for “it makes slaves of men, and of the human frame a mechanised automation.” A child of the European Enlightenment, Shelley waxed eloquent in echoing the disdain of many of his contemporaries over the suffocating authoritarianism that obedience sardonically implies. As the late Roman Catholic theologian and indefatigable essayist Fr Richard Neuhaus puts it: “… obedience became a dirty word already in the 18th century Enlightenment, when it was frequently construed as meaning ‘blind obedience’ – a stifling and unthinking conformity to authority.” This attitude still holds sway for many in our society today. Obedience, however, is one of the most important themes in the Bible. In Scripture as well as in the theological and spiritual tradition of the Church, obedience is understood as the most appropriate attitude and response of the believer to God. Now, it is imperative that we achieve a clear understanding of what the Bible has to say about this important virtue. This is because the biblical concept of obedience is radically different from secular accounts and the doctrines of other religions, such as Islam. In the Bible, faith and obedience are intricately interwoven with each other. The obedience of the Christian flows out of his faith (trust) in the God whose extravagant love is demonstrated in the giving of His Son for the salvation of the world. Paul highlights the relationship between faith and obedience in the expression “the obedience that comes from faith” in his letter to the Christians in Rome (Romans 1:5, NIV).
“Soundings” is a series of essays that, like the waves of a sonogram, explore issues in society, culture and the church in light of the Gospel and Christian understanding.
So inseparable is faith and obedience in the Bible that the German Lutheran theologian, Dietrich Bonhoeffer, could aver that “only he who believes is obedient, and only he who is obedient believes.” In the Bible, obedience is not only joined with faith; it is also joined with love. Christian obedience should never be understood as a contractual transaction or as slavish adherence to a set of rules and regulations. Rather, obedience is always an expression of responsive love on the part of one who has received the undeserved but generous love of God. The profound relationship between love and obedience is portrayed repeatedly in Scripture. Jesus said to His disciples: “If you love me, you will keep my commandments” (John 14:15). And John, the Apostle of Love, wrote to the Christians in his community: “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments” (1 John 5:3). The Christian obeys not because he is forced or coerced. The Christian obeys because he loves. He loves because he knows that he is being loved.
Christian obedience, therefore, can never be reduced to crass legalism. It is rather the sure and concrete proof of our love for God. Understood in this way, Christian obedience is never a chore or a burden. “His commandments”, wrote John crisply and incisively, “are not burdensome” (1 John 5:3b). The Spanish theologian Ignatius of Loyola has put it plainly: “It is not hard to obey when we love the one whom we obey.” As an expression of gratitude and love, obedience brings exceedingly great joy to the Christian. The obedient Christian lives a doxological life – a life that reverberates with praise, a joyful life that honours God. Finally, it is by obeying the Word of God and by bending our wills to His that we become truly free. It is by yielding to the will of the Creator that we are gradually being transformed from inauthenticity to authenticity. Secular thinkers like Shelley often mistakenly regard this paradox as some pious mumbo jumbo at best, or a silly contradiction at worst. For them, we are truly free only when we are not bound by the fetters of dogma or morality that are imposed from outside. Only the sovereign individual, they insist, is truly free. But the sovereign individual is a myth. So is the freedom that he purportedly enjoys. In truth, the person who rejects God in the name of freedom and self-determination is in the state of delusion and ‘un-freedom’. To put it forthrightly, as the Bible does, the person who chooses disobedience instead of obedience is in bondage. He is “a slave to sin” (John 8:34). n Picture by yaoinlove/Bigstock.com METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2018
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HOME
Methodist Centre R&R begins with prayer
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ong-awaited maintenance works on the Methodist Centre began with the Renovation and Restoration (R&R) project in November 2017, and are slated for completion in July 2018. On 17 Nov 2017, representatives from the steering, working, and project committees, main contractor and other key personnel came together for an opening prayer to kickstart the R&R project. Mr Lye Kuan Lay, the project lead, gave a briefing on what the project would entail. Following that, Trinity Annual Conference President the Rev Dr Gordon Wong, Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference President the Rev James Nagulan, and Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung consecutively prayed for safety, good weather, and good working relationships amongst contractors, consultants, and the various committee members. The session closed with a group photo (right) to commemorate the event. n
Story and photo by Ashley Ho, Communications Executive at MCS Comms
HYMNS & SONGS
A precious name Dr Yeo Teck Beng is a member of Telok Ayer Chinese Methodist Church.
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he eighth day after Christmas, 1 Jan, was formerly observed as The Circumcision of Jesus with its focus on the ceremonial rite in Judaism.1 Recorded in Luke 2:21, this observance is celebrated under various names such as the Holy Name of Our Lord Jesus in the Episcopal calendar; the Name of Jesus in the Lutheran calendar; and the Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God in the Roman Catholic calendar.2 Some other Protestants also remember the naming of Jesus on this date. What’s in a name? This was the probing question Romeo asked in Shakespeare’s play Romeo and Juliet. A name can say quite a lot about one’s identity and personality. For instance, the name Samuel means ‘asked of God’, Hannah means ‘grace’, Sarah means ‘princess’, and Naomi means ‘pleasantness’.3 Recorded in Matthew 1:21, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream and disclosed to him the meaning of a precious name, “... and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” (NIV) ‘Jesus’ was the name that meant everything to Lydia Baxter. Lydia was born in Petersburg, New York, on 8 Sep 1809. She married Colonel John C. Baxter and moved to New York City, where she worked tirelessly for Christ until a severe illness left her bedridden for much of her life.4 ‘Take the Name of Jesus with You’ was written by Mrs Baxter on her sickbed just four years before her death in 1874. Despite her health problems, Mrs Baxter remained continually cheerful and patient. “I have a very special armour,” (stanza 2) she would tell her friends. “I have the name of Jesus. When the tempter tries to make me blue or despondent, I mentioned the name of Jesus, and he can’t get through to me anymore.”5 Through the centuries, the words of this hymn still bring joy and comfort (stanza 1) to countless Christians who carry the precious name of Jesus wherever they go. So let us not simply carry our name cards, but take the name of Jesus with us throughout our lives and await the “joy of heaven” (chorus), “when our journey is complete” (stanza 4). n
Take the Name of Jesus with You (The United Methodist Hymnal, #536) Take the name of Jesus with you, child of sorrow and of woe; it will joy and comfort give you; take it then, where’er you go. Chorus: Precious name, O how sweet! Hope of earth and joy of heaven. Precious name, O how sweet! Hope of earth and joy of heaven. Take the name of Jesus ever as a shield from every snare; if temptations round you gather, breathe that holy name in prayer. (Chorus) O the precious name of Jesus! How it thrills our souls with joy, when his loving arms receive us, and his songs our tongues employ! (Chorus) At the name of Jesus bowing, falling prostrate at His feet, King of kings in heaven we’ll crown him, when our journey is complete. (Chorus) Words: Lydia Baxter, 1870 (Phil. 2:9-11) Music: William H. Doane, 1871
aurence Hull Stookey, Calendar: Christ’s Time for the Church (Nashville, L TN: Abingdon Press, 1996), 118. 2 Hoyt L. Hickman, The New Handbook of the Christian Year: Based on the Revised Common Lectionary (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1999), 78. 3 Kenneth W. Osbeck, Amazing Grace: 366 Inspiring Hymn Stories for Daily Devotions (Grand Rapids, Mich: Kregel Publications, 1990), 39. 4 Robert J. Morgan, Then Sings My Soul: 150 of the World’s Greatest Hymn Stories. Book 2 (Nashville, Tenn: Thomas Nelson, 2004), 125. 5 Ibid., 125. 1
Picture by enterlinedesign/Bigstock.com METHODIST MESSAGE • JAN 2018
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POEMS
The Lord Breathed and Man Became a Living Being Leong Kwok Thye is a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church and has been involved in the ministries of Scripture Union, the Bible Study Fellowship and the pastoral care programme of Anglo-Chinese School (Primary) and Anglo-Chinese School (Barker Road). So God created man in his own image, in the image of God he created him; male and female he created them. (Genesis 1:27)
The Lord created the universe, And plants and animals diverse. He set the stars in space; He created the human race.
He gave him freedom of choice, To listen and obey his voice: To walk with him in humility, And enjoy life into eternity.
Then the Lord God formed the man of dust from the ground and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life, and the man became a living creature.
He formed man from dust of earth, And lovingly with his breath, Made him a living being, With mind, heart and feeling.
But Adam defied the Lord, And disobeyed his word; He fell into the devil’s snare. When he thought God didn’t care.
He made him in his own image, The earth to enjoy and manage; And made the world a treasure, For his exclusive pleasure.
Good and evil is God’s domain, Not a function of the brain. He decides what’s good or evil; Not man, and not the devil.
And the Lord God planted a garden in Eden, in the east, and there he put the man whom he had formed. And out of the ground the Lord God made to spring up every tree that is pleasant to the sight and good for food. The tree of life was in the midst of the garden, and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil. (Genesis 2:7-9) The Lord God took the man and put him in the Garden of Eden to work it and keep it. And the Lord God commanded the man, saying, “You may surely eat of any tree of the garden, but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil you shall not eat, for in the day that you eat of it you shall surely die.” (Genesis 2:15-17)
Picture by pkruger/Bigstock.com
January IS THE MONTH FOR SIGNING UP FOR COURSES WITH CENTRE FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF CHRISTIAN MINISTRY (TTC) NEW TESTAMENT (NT) SURVEY
8 Jan – 5 Mar 2018 (8 Monday evenings), 7.30 – 9.30 p.m. Wesley Methodist Church, Level 1, Plaza Hall, 5 Fort Canning Rd, S(179493)
Scan here to see events online!
With accounts of the life and teachings of Jesus, the spread of the Gospel, and issues faced by various NT writers that provide foundations for the life and theology of Christians and the Church throughout history, the importance of the New Testament cannot be overstated. This NT Survey course will provide an orientation of the various books of the NT by locating them in their social and historical context, and discover their relevance to us, our churches, and our world today. Organised by Centre for the Development of Christian Ministry, Trinity Theological College. Fees: $100 ($80 for returning students, if the last CDCM course attended is not more than 12 months before the commencement of this new module. Free for TTC alumni and TTC full-time students – registration required)
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To register, visit www.ttc.edu.sg/academics/centres/cdcm/evening-courses/cdcm-course-registration
TRAINING TO BE EFFECTIVE IN CRISIS RELIEF
13 Jan 2018, Saturday, 9.00 a.m. – 5.00 p.m.
Wesley Methodist Church, Level 3 Hall, 5 Fort Canning Rd, S(179493) Singapore has so far been blessed to remain untouched by natural or man-made disasters that have ravaged the region and the rest of the world. But for how long? As Christians, it is important to be equipped with the skills and knowledge needed for crisis relief as well as being able to respond quickly and effectively in the face of any disaster. Come and find out how you can be part of a larger church-based crisis relief operation through this one-day course ‘Crisis Relief Training: Church Response in Crises and Disasters (Module 1)’. Organised by Wesley Methodist Church. Fees: Free (Two tea-breaks provided, lunch on your own), only 50 slots available.
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Register by 8 Jan 2018 – visit www.wesleymc.org, email crw@wesleymc.org, or call 6634-6648.
EMPOWERING THE SHAKERS AND MOVERS OF THE PLANET – AND BIBLE MISSIONS
21 Jan 2018, Sunday, 8.00 p.m.
Suntec Convention Centre Hall 601 - 604, 1 Raffles Boulevard, S(039593) Would you jump at the chance of doing your bit to support Bible missions, while joining in a heart-pumping night of wonder, celebration, and worship? Here’s your chance with the highly-anticipated Planetshakers Legacy Tour! The Australian pop/rock band continuously forges new frontiers, pushes the boundaries of what modern worship sounds and looks like, and have found a unique voice for conveying praise and love to God. Their music aims to empower a generation to win a generation for Christ. What’s more, using the special code (see below) to buy your tickets will channel funds to spread God’s Word! Organised by Red Spade Entertainment in collaboration with The Bible Society® of Singapore. Tickets priced at Cat 1 $128*, Cat 2 $98*, Cat 3 $68*, Cat 4 $48*. Tickets available at www.sistic.com.sg/events/cplanet0118. When you use the code WWJD to buy your ticket, 10% of the proceeds will go towards supporting the Bible Mission and spreading the Word of God!
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*excludes SISTIC booking charges and handling fees.
CREATING A RHAPSODY OF THANKSGIVING
2 Feb 2018, Friday, 7.30 p.m.
Bukit Panjang Methodist Church, 496 Upper Bukit Timah Rd, S(678099) As part of Trinity Theological College’s 70th Anniversary celebrations, come join the Trinity Choir to make a joyful noise in thanksgiving for God’s faithfulness through the years. Organised by Trinity Theological College.
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Admission is free. Registration is required. Register today at www.ttc.edu.sg/trinity-rhapsody/
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THINK
Retire, reinvent, or reassign? Benny Bong has been a family and marital therapist for more than 30 years, and is a certified work-life consultant. He was the first recipient of the AWARE Hero Award in 2011 and is a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church.
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he weekend edition of our local papers often carries interesting articles. One regular column provides advice on money matters, and usually features a successful individual dispensing know-how on managing one’s assets. One article that caught my attention a few weeks ago featured a young entrepreneur who stated that her goal was to retire by the time she reached her thirties. This was absolutely shocking to me, since the current retirement age is double that. In my counselling work, I often hear my clients talking wistfully about their plans to slow down and quit the rat-race. Many had their lives scarred from years of abuse due to their hard and stressful work. These wounds can take the form of early onset of heart attacks or strokes, or even broken marriages. So it is no surprise to hear people talk about retiring early. What I have noticed, however, is that the target date keeps getting sooner. Talk of retiring when one reaches their fifties has been replaced by aiming for the forties. But retiring in one’s thirties? Now this is exceptional. The planned retirement many people aspire to have is to leave paid work, and to live the remaining years in relative ease and comfort. In today’s era of rising costs of living, and especially with high medical bills that could practically give one a cardiac arrest, this aspiration appears to be more of a pipe dream. In fact, many worry that they cannot afford to retire, much less have a comfortable life! However, if you are amongst the fortunate who have managed to set aside something for your later years, what are your plans for the ‘second stage’ of your adult life? Many retirees report that the formerly idyllic picture of endless golfing and leisure soon becomes boring. Others, as grandparents, get drawn into caregiving and spend hours shuttling kids around – usually lasting a couple of years until the grandchildren become too hard to keep up with. There are growing numbers of retirees who join activity classes like qigong, or pick up games like bridge and mahjong, all in an effort to stay active and perhaps keep dementia at bay. Another idea some retirees have is to reinvent themselves. From once being bankers they become business consultants; from engineers to volunteers; and from teachers to counsellors. This can be a good development, especially if the next career was one’s dream job which was not pursued earlier. Perhaps another way of thinking about retirement is to think of it as being ‘reassigned’. For 30 or even 40 years, we may have been ‘assigned’ a job, perhaps as a draftsman or a teller. Now that this job does not need us, maybe we should go back to the One who first assigned us that job, and ask God what is our next assignment!
If indeed during our brief time on earth, we are to be custodians or stewards of what God has entrusted us with, then until He retires us permanently, we should keep on with His work. His next assignment may be a ‘job’ as a befriender, a Sunday School teacher, or a caregiver. God knows best our abilities, and what is best for us at each point in our lives. Perhaps in this last stage of our labours on earth, we can truly experience the joy of work when we do not need to work – the satisfaction of having our efforts recognised by our Heavenly Master, and not have to worry about the whims and fancies of our human bosses. Viewing retirement as reassignment then means we need not be anxious about what we should aim to do, but stand ready and wait for His call. n
Editor’s note: Read about some inspiring examples of ‘reassigned retirees’ on P7 of MM June 2017, or message.methodist.org.sg/walking-on-sunshine! Picture by tashatuvango/Bigstock.com