methodist message Vol 116 No 11 • Nov 2014
inside
this issue...
The Methodist Church in Singapore
ISSN 0129-6868 MCI (P) 199/01/2014
You & Your Family Growing older together in peace and harmony
Yellow Ribbon Project Do more than wear it
Tell Me, Pastor Holy Communion
page 6
pages 12-13
page 15
TRACKERS 2015
What’s brewing at TRACKERS 2015? Annabel Ang is a full-time youth worker with Trinity Annual Conference Youth Ministries (Truthmin), and worships at Pentecost Methodist Church.
C
alling all youths aged between 16 to 25 who want to inspire and change lives! Grow in your faith with the TRACKERS in 2015. Besides an overseas mission trip and lectures, you will have the opportunity to be part of a special evangelistic musical. Scheduled for 27-28 March 2015, the evangelistic musical will be a unique opportunity for youths to reach out to other youths through the creative arts. Photos courtesy of Truthmin
message.methodist.org.sg
TRACKERS is a three-month discipleship programme for youths in transition, and its purpose is to kick-start an incredible journey of faith. It’s been such a great blessing to see so many youths embark on an amazing adventure with God since TRACKERS began in 2007. If you would like to consecrate three months to God from January to March 2015, do join us for an exciting time ahead. n For more information, please email us at Trackers2015@gmail. com or log onto www. truthmin.com
COMING UP
Catch God’s vision through the Annual Conferences
39th Session of Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference (ETAC) 7-8 Nov 2014 Sembawang Tamil Methodist Church No. 3 Yishun Street 11 (Level 3)
T
his November, the three Annual Conferences (ACs) of The Methodist Church in Singapore (MCS) will be holding their 39th Sessions. Clergy and lay delegates from each local Methodist church will be gathering at the conference venues to worship God together, share about their ministries, and discuss future plans as a conference. Representatives from various General Conference councils and Methodist-linked organisations will also attend to share about their cooperation with the Methodist churches in the work of God. A major highlight of the conference sessions is the President’s Address or President’s Review, in which the President of each AC will reflect on the conference’s ministry in the past year, and lay out plans for the year ahead. Here, we catch a glimpse of the vision God has for the ACs in making disciples of all nations (Matt 28:19). All three ACs will be holding elections for their Vice-Presidents this year. The lay Vice-Presidents assist the Presidents in their duties, and serve terms
39th Session of Chinese Annual Conference (CAC) 10-13 Nov 2014 Toa Payoh Chinese Methodist Church 480 Lorong 2 Toa Payoh
39th Session of Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) 17-20 Nov 2014 Christ Methodist Church 597 East Coast Road
of two years at a time. TRAC’s current Vice-President Mr Kim Seah has served the maximum of three consecutive terms, so a new Vice-President will be elected. The CAC will be discussing plans to set up a Punggol Mission Point near Punggol 21, a residential estate. It will also consider setting up a Board of Family Ministry to foster stronger family values among believers as well as to assist with and organise the church’s courses and talks for Bible-teaching and the imparting of traditional family values. At each AC Session, Bishop Dr Wee Boon Hup will present the event lineup and plans to celebrate MCS 130 in 2015 – our Church’s 130th anniversary. More information will be revealed in the Methodist Message in due course. The conferences’ Opening and Closing Worship Services are open to all Methodists to attend. As Methodist pastors are appointed to their local Methodist churches on a yearly basis and their appointments are read aloud at the Closing Worship Service, this occasion often sees a high turnout from church members curious or anxious about whether their pastors will return to their church next year. At the same Closing Worship Service, new Elders and Deacons are also ordained, and retiring pastors recognised. n For more details, please contact your respective Annual Conference office.
Photos courtesy of the respective Annual Conferences
Ms Christina Stanley has stepped down as Editor of Methodist Message and Ms Jillin Lim is the new Editor. We deeply appreciate and thank Christina for her diligent and energetic service!
methodist message
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 New International Version, unless otherwise stated. Our address
Design & Production SNAP! Creative Pte Ltd
Methodist Message • #06-04, 70 Barker Road, Singapore 309936 Tel: 6478-4793 • Fax: 6478-4794 Email: newmm@methodist.org.sg MM website: message.methodist.org.sg Church website: www.methodist.org.sg
Let us have your views
Editorial Board Adviser and Publisher Bishop Dr Wee Boon Hup, Chairman, Council on Communications Editor Ms Jillin Lim Assistant Editor Ms Grace Toh Sub-editor Ms Tan-Ngooi Chiu Ai Editorial Executive Ms Chia Hui Jun
Have something to say or share? Email us at newmm@methodist.org.sg and if appropriate, your contribution could be published.
BISHOP’S MESSAGE
Obviously not! Bishop Dr Wee Boon Hup was elected Bishop of The Methodist Church in Singapore in 2012. He has been a Methodist pastor for 29 years.
Finding out the will of God is a matter of trust (Proverbs 3:5-6). Faith does not operate by sight (i.e. the obvious). It requires Spirit-inspired discernment and wisdom, grounded on a familiarity with Scripture.
W
hat is obvious is not necessarily God’s way. Paul was a changed man following his Damascus experience during which he encountered the risen Lord. From a persecuting Pharisee, he became a passionate follower of the Way. He began to preach boldly in the name of Jesus. Surely, he would be a ‘shoo-in’ when it came to reaching out to his fellow Pharisees with the gospel: “circumcised on the eighth day, of the people of Israel, of the tribe of Benjamin, a Hebrew of Hebrews; as to the law, a Pharisee; as to zeal, a persecutor of the church; as to righteousness under the law, blameless” (Philippians 3:5-6, ESV). He was the obvious choice as an evangelist to the hard-core and zealous Jews. However, the Lord called him to be an apostle to the Gentiles instead. In his testimony before the Jewish people following his arrest, Paul shared how he protested: “Lord, they themselves know that in one synagogue after another I imprisoned and beat those who believed in you. And when the blood of Stephen your witness was being shed, I myself was standing by and approving and watching over the garments of those who killed him.” (Acts 22:19-20, ESV) But the Lord sent him to places far away from Jerusalem. We resort to the obvious as the will of God when we rely more on our own understanding than on God. There are times when the not-so-obvious is God’s will. Being tasked to choose the next king of Israel, Samuel was led by the Lord to the house of Jesse. According to Samuel’s assessment, all the seven sons appeared suitable for kingship, but he heard the Lord telling him otherwise.
Then came the last one, David. Jesse himself did not bother to call David to appear before Samuel because he was just a boy tending to the sheep, unlike his older brothers who were soldiers in Saul’s army. There was nothing about David that would make even his father want to bother about him. But David was the one whom God told Samuel to anoint as the next king. Even David’s brother did not think highly of him. Eliab, the eldest of the siblings, accused him of fleeing his shepherding responsibilities just so that he could watch some action at the battlefront (1 Samuel 17:28). King Saul initially came to the same conclusion like all the rest did about David. We are not sure why he eventually let David face Goliath but the rest is history. There may be times when the will of God may be obvious. There are some matters which are plainly clear, especially in matters where Scripture is unequivocal, as in stealing, adultery, murder, and the like: God’s will is – don’t! The issue here is not about what is obvious or not. It is more a matter of what is really the will or plan of God that we should follow. Finding out the will of God is a matter of trust (Proverbs 3:5-6). Faith does not operate by sight (i.e. the obvious). It requires Spirit-inspired discernment and wisdom, grounded on a familiarity with Scripture. This comes from a deep relationship with God that has developed over time. Paul’s protestation on his assignment came early in his ministry; in his journeys later on, he was led (as well as prevented from going) to certain places, often by submitting himself to the Spirit’s guidance. Ultimately, it all boils down to our willingness to submit to God, and not follow the devices of our own heart, because deceitfulness in the human heart may still choose to disobey. n
METHODIST MESSAGE • NOV 2014
|3
HOME
Good News for the world The Rev Dr David Lowes Watson is an eminent Wesleyan scholar, author and Methodist minister of the Tennessee Conference, The United Methodist Church. He was keynote speaker at the Aldersgate SG 2014 Convention in May.
D
uring my visit to Singapore earlier this year to take part in Aldersgate SG, it once again struck me how radically our worldview has changed. A journey that used to take months by land and sea was accomplished in hours by air. We have also seen Planet Earth photographed from outer space and know that it is indeed round. Even more astounding is the discovery that the sun is only one of billions of stars in a galaxy called the Milky Way, which in turn is one of billions of galaxies. These cosmic revelations make the coming of Jesus Christ to Planet Earth infinitely more awesome, in the fullest sense of the word. That the Creator of billions of stars and galaxies had actually come in person to this small planet 2000 years ago is truly earth-shaking news. It is also wondrously good news. The word gospel, from the Anglo-Saxon god-spell or ‘godstory’, is a translation of the Greek word euangelion, meaning good tidings, and those of us who have been entrusted with this gospel should make sure that we know why it is good and why it is newsworthy. Of course, the good news begins with the bad news. Planet Earth, this blue and white jewel in God’s Creation, has gone terribly wrong. While there is much about our world that is good and beautiful, a great deal of nature is hard and cruel. Much worse, there is the scandal of human sin and evil, as the past hundred years of our history have made all too clear. In spite of remarkable scientific and cultural progress, this has been the century marked by world wars and holocausts as never before. We are indeed the fallen planet. All of this makes the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ a cosmic drama that the rest of the universe is waiting to see unfold (Rom 8:18-25).The announcement of Jesus in the synagogue at Nazareth made clear that in his incarnation, God is giving birth to a New Creation:
“The Spirit of the Lord is on me, because he has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim freedom for the prisoners and recovery of sight for the blind, to set the oppressed free, to proclaim the year of the Lord’s favour … Today this scripture is fulfilled in your hearing.” Luke 4:18-19, 21
This is a message that cannot be left only to our preachers. ALL Christians must announce it, and while there is something deeply personal about our witness, we should be clear that the
gospel is not about us. It is about the New Creation, which Jesus called the Kingdom of God, and there is no better way to proclaim it than to practise the craft of journalism – something we find in each issue of Methodist Message. An article by a good journalist begins with concise and accurate headlines that capture the essence of the news. Then follows an opening statement explaining the headline, followed in turn by paragraphs that expand on the explanation. All of this is governed by the space available so that the essentials are not lost, whatever the length of the article. Presenting the gospel this way is a craft that every Christian should learn as we take the good news of the gospel into the world. We should be ready to share this good news in five minutes if need be, as well as being ready to expand on the headlines whenever we have the opportunity. One thing is for sure: we cannot regard this good news as a personal possession. The gospel is for everyone. Christians are merely the messengers and the journalists, privileged to announce and report it. The father of Methodism, John Wesley, spent his whole ministry doing just that, making clear that God’s New Creation calls the world, and especially the human race, to repent and turn away from the sin and evil that Jesus came to expose and defeat. Moreover, Wesley was in no doubt that this New Creation would one day come to pass. In one of his later sermons, ‘The General Spread of the Gospel’, he declared: “ ‘They shall all know me,’ saith the Lord, not from the greatest to the least (this is the wisdom of the world which is foolishness with God) but ‘from the least to the greatest’ (Jer 31:34; Heb 8:8-12, KJV), that the praise may not be of men but of God. “Before the end, even the rich shall enter into the kingdom of God. Together with them will enter the great, the noble, the honourable … Last of all the wise and learned, the men of genius, the philosophers, will be convinced they are fools; will be converted and become as little children, and enter into the kingdom of God.” There’s no way we can keep such good news to ourselves! n
SAYS THE CAC PRESIDENT
Offering service as worship to God The Rev Dr Chong Chin Chung was re-elected President of the Chinese Annual Conference (CAC) in 2012 for the quadrennium. He has been a Methodist pastor for 30 years and has been a guest lecturer at Trinity Theological College since 1996.
“I appeal to you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, to present your bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God – this is a reasonable act of worship for you.” Romans 12:1 (MOUNCE)
I
am stirred by the above verse each time I read it. It makes me reflect and examine again the meaning of offering, serving, and worship. Offering Paul points out that we present or offer our bodies as living sacrifices to God out of our own will and choice, and there is neither coercion nor pressure involved. If there are regrets subsequently, the sacrificial offering can still get off the altar, as it is a living sacrifice after all. To me, the principle here is that our service and offerings of cash and kind for church or ministry ought to be unconditional and given willingly, and rightly so, for it is our thanksgiving response to God for His blessing and grace.
Usually, besides our offerings being in thanksgiving to God, we also offer in response to appeals from those in need. For the person who offers, it is a matter between him and the Lord, and he does not mind if no one knows about or remembers it. Hence we often hear of good acts performed anonymously. I would like to state, however, that no matter what offerings we make to God, our Lord is never our debtor. Service A choir leader once requested from the church free tickets for choir members to attend its year-end dinner, as a token of the church’s affirmation of the choir’s service during every Sunday worship service. There were different reactions to this proposal. Some were concerned that this might encourage an attitude of expecting reward for service. Besides, there were also many others who served at every Sunday worship service, officially or otherwise. They too would need to be given tokens of appreciation, and even then some might still be inadvertently left out. Others questioned whether it was right to use offerings from believers to reward or show appreciation to those who offer their service willingly. However, there were some who felt that people who offer service
freely should be given affirmation, and this culture of appreciation will encourage more to come forth to serve. Those who are affirmed in their service can become role models for others. The church finally decided against the proposal for free tickets, but acknowledged the need for frequent affirmation of good deeds, as this would encourage others in loving the Lord. After all, believers need encouragement in doing good deeds, and examples for them to emulate. Worship Even as we serve, we are in fact worshipping the Lord. The phrase “reasonable act of worship” (MOUNCE) used by Paul in this verse can also be translated as “reasonable service” (KJV). It has been said that service for others should follow upon our worship of the Lord. We are reminded in John’s epistle that anyone who does not love his brother, whom he has seen, cannot love God, whom he has not seen (1 John 4:20). Let us remember what Jesus told His disciples: “Whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of Mine, you did for Me.” (Matthew 25:40) Worship of the Lord is not limited to our serving in church on Sunday; this worship ought to be extended to our daily living. n
Photo from Aldersgate SG 2014 METHODIST MESSAGE • NOV 2014
|5
YOU & YOUR FAMILY
Growing older together in peace and harmony 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.
T
he four members of the Tan* family sat there in grim tension. The air was thick with anger and sadness. Elder Mr Tan muttered about how shameful it was to be seeing a counsellor, much like ‘washing dirty linen in public’. Blaming their family problems on Mrs Tan’s constant nagging, he added bitterly, “Who can stand living with an old cow like her, who smells and snores at night?” Terence*, the son who arranged for the family counselling, implored his father not to be so unkind. Caught between two warring parties, he had been trying for some time to get his parents to make peace. He had even tried asking his pastor to speak to them. This came after Mr Tan complained of his wife locking him out after a quarrel. Mrs Tan spoke up: “He wants to go out, might as well don’t come home.” “So dirty, so dirty,” she repeated, voicing suspicions that her husband had a mistress. Heather*, the youngest Tan, clearly felt very uneasy. She had tried to help by having her parents live with her so that they could be closer to the grandchildren. This, however, proved short-lived when she had to house her mother-in-law who fell and broke her hip. The Tan family’s problem is unfortunately not unique. It appears to be a growing trend. I have noticed couples, married for 30 years and more, talking about wanting to leave the marriage and live apart. In many cases, their problems have a long history. Many do not get a divorce or a legal separation. Instead, they choose to live separately, often with one of their children. Some may argue that the choice of some senior couples to live apart may not be a bad thing. To give their children
stability, they may have sacrificed their personal happiness in the earlier years. But in their remaining years, why continue living together in an unhappy relationship? I am all for individuals, young and old, making choices that can bring them satisfaction and wellness. I find it sad that these senior couples endured many unhappy years of being married only in name. Marriage, a God-given institution, is meant to be satisfying and a blessing to both partners as well as to others. Thus, I wonder if we should encourage couples, young and old, to keep their marriages alive and vibrant. Achieving this is not complicated. But, it is also not easy. Firstly, work hard at cherishing each other. In the initial years together, couples do this naturally. As the years go by, however, it becomes harder. It may be that we start taking each other for granted. Learn to remember what your spouse does that you appreciate. Then find ways to communicate your appreciation. One is never too old to say “I like that” and “I love you”. If you do not say it today, tomorrow may be too late. Since losing her husband in a tragic accident, a young widow has bitterly regretted not saying these words enough to him. Stay in touch, both through words and in matters of the heart. This requires constant communication. I have seen just as many marriages coming to grief when couples drift apart as when a third party is involved. Strive to make your spouse your best friend or soulmate. Finally, learn to be generous with forgiveness. Over the years of living together, many things your spouse does will annoy you. Learn to let them go. Recently, my wife joked that my middle name should be Chip as I keep chipping her china. I am glad she tries to let it go. I too am trying to be more careful with the tableware. It is only when we exercise patience and grace that we can hope to live and grow old together in peace and harmony. n
* Not their real names.
HOME
Pentecost MC builds school for Dalit children Audrey Lim serves as the Lay Executive Staff (Missions) at Pentecost Methodist Church. She has been doing so since October 2007.
“The Spirit of the Sovereign Lord is on me, because the Lord has anointed me to proclaim good news to the poor. He has sent me to bind up the brokenhearted, to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” Isaiah 61:1
T
he Dalit people in India – traditionally known as ‘untouchables’ – are some of the world’s most marginalised and impoverished people. Severely discriminated against socially and in access to education and regular employment, Dalit children suffer from the perpetuated cycle of poverty their families experience. What can we in Singapore do to help them? Pentecost Methodist Church (PMC) sensed the Holy Spirit’s call for us to “extend our tent” (Isaiah 54:2) and be a blessing to the marginalised, indigenous poor in Asia. We contacted the Rev George Barathan, an ordained Elder of Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference who was seconded to serve with Operation Mobilisation (OM). He put us in touch with OM India, who invited PMC to partner them in building an Englishmedium elementary Good Shepherd School in Nawapara, Chhattisgarh (Central North-Eastern India). We would like to come alongside OM to light the Dalits’ path to salvation, and to help them break out of their inter-generational poverty trap.
OM India runs more than 110 Good Shepherd Schools throughout India, with the intention of establishing the schools as platforms to serve the villages in the surrounding areas. They provide care for the suffering, empower the women through vocational skills training, teach basic hygiene and provide English education for the children. OM India hopes that a church will be born once a small group of children begin to study in such a school. In August 2012, PMC leaders visited Nawapara and prayed over the two acres of land that was the proposed site of the school. Our long-term partnership with OM India would be expressed through financial support in the initial years as the school was being built, and opportunities for PMC members to be directly involved in children’s ministry and outreach to the villages once the school was established. Phase 1 of the building project included the purchase of the land, foundation and five classrooms. On 19 May 2013 (Pentecost Sunday), PMC launched the Dalit Empowerment Project (DEP) in partnership with OM India, in support of building this school. The subsequent response from PMC members and friends was overwhelming. The building of the school commenced soon after our Pastor-inCharge, the Rev Lai Kai Ming, led a team from PMC to Nawapara to lay the school’s cornerstone in November 2013. By God’s grace, the school building was completed in record time (by June 2014) and work began on the school’s boundary wall. As Phase 1 of the DEP draws to a close, we praise God for appointing godly people like contractor Jeevan Lal and OM India Community
Development Officer Prem Dande, who have shown unwavering commitment and dedication to ensuring a well-built school. Presently, about 100 children are studying in the school. We also rejoice and thank God for PMC members’ obedience and generosity in empowering and loving the Dalit community in Nawapara. May we continue to pray for them and keep them in our hearts. PMC is preparing a mission team to visit Nawapara in November this year, to paint murals on the walls of the classrooms in the Good Shepherd School Nawapara. We are also planning to send another team to participate in the school’s inauguration in mid-March 2015. A verse that continues to inspire us is Matthew 25:40 – “The King will reply, ‘Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.’ ” n
To SUPPORT the Good Shepherd School Nawapara alongside PMC u Contact Ms Audrey Lim at audrey@pmc.org.sg To KNOW MORE about other OM India’s Dalit Empowerment initiatives u email Mr Terence Loke, Executive Director of OM Singapore, at Terence.Loke@om.org, or the Rev George Barathan, Representative of Dalit Freedom Network, British Columbia, at George.Barathan@om.org
Photos courtesy of Pentecost Methodist Church METHODIST MESSAGE • NOV 2014
|7
MISSIONS
By His grace alone Kok Liang and Lesley Yeow went to Laos in 2005 to set up an English centre for adults. Lesley took on the job of running the Singapore Mission School most reluctantly. She now readily acknowledges God’s grace in all contingencies, especially with children!
T
he vision for the Singapore Mission School (SMS) in Laos is clear – we want to nurture educated hearts in the country of Laos. We desire that our children will, during their formative years, experience their teachers’ grace and dedication; witness the steady conviction, faithful service and overarching passion on display day in and day out; and be inspired by the joy and hope they see lived out before them. At least two factors are crucial for SMS to move towards being the school we envision: teachers of character and adequate facilities. God has provided the former with impeccable timing. Right on cue, in response to the heartfelt prayers of our teacher team and intercessors for this work, more people were added to our staff team this year to cater to the growing enrolment. And they came before we had time to panic or bite our nails! We now have a team of dedicated individuals working from 8 a.m. to 5.30 p.m. to care for our 40 children. After almost four years of running unofficially in Vientiane, SMS finally received its certificate of approval from the Lao Ministry of Education and Sports this June. The preceding years had been stressful and disheartening. Inspections by education officials invariably turned up the same complaints: inadequate classroom size and unsuitable building. Requests for temporary approval were flatly denied. By God’s grace, approval was finally granted on the understanding that an extension would be built to house the school. Somehow, at some point, the inspectors must have noticed the good work going on in our classrooms. This perhaps contributed to the progress our application made as it crawled tortuously up the myriad levels of bureaucracy. God willing, work on the promised extension will commence in February 2015. As it is, we are already in need of more space as all the available rooms in the present building are occupied. As the children grow, so does the need for more resources to keep pace with their development. Specialised art and music rooms, more space for the swelling library, dedicated areas for the children to explore or express themselves, sports equipment,
computer facilities, cooking and dining facilities, not to mention work space for teachers, are all a pleasant daydream at the moment. It will soon be time to look into the requirements for a secondary school in order to keep our word to parents and students that we will do our best to keep the children together for the long term. As we prepare for the development and construction of our primary school, we pray that God, in His grace, will again provide according to what He sees we need, as He has done all these years. n
PRAY for u Kok Liang and Lesley that as they prepare for the extension of SMS, they will be strengthened in their spirit and continue to be blessed as they bless the children. u Good health and passion for the staff as they daily give their all for the children. u God’s provision, wisdom and guidance in the SMS Laos building project. GIVE u towards the SMS Laos building project. Please make cheques payable to “The Methodist Church in Singapore (MMS)” and indicate “SMS Laos Building Project” on the back of your cheque. For more information, contact Col (Ret) Quek Koh Eng at koheng.quek@methodist.org.sg or 6478-4807. Photos courtesy of Methodist Missions Society
WELFARE SERVICES
Raising secure, confident children Mr Alvin Goh is Senior Therapist at Covenant Family Service Centre, which is run by Methodist Welfare Services.
F
our-year-old Lydia* was admitted to the hospital with what medical social workers called “non-accidental injuries”, including a broken arm. Unkempt and visibly underweight, she was not as attached to her mother, unlike most four-year-olds. When asked, her mother seemed confused and was unable to explain how Lydia was hurt, setting off red flags with the social workers. Investigations revealed that Lydia was from a single-parent family and would often be left unsupervised or in the care of her 14-year-old stepbrother. Her mother would peddle and consume drugs at home, in front of Lydia and her step-brother. Her mother was also not emotionally responsive to Lydia’s needs, often shouting and screaming at Lydia for misbehaving, using vulgarities and put-downs. She often told Lydia to “go away and don’t be a bother”. Her step-brother also knuckled Lydia on the head or caned her with the rotan when he thought she was misbehaving. Eventually, they were placed under the care of the State. While steps have been taken to stop the abuse and provide care for Lydia, her relationship with her mother will likely have lasting effects on her relationships with others later in life. Importance of childhood relationship According to psychologists, the relationship, or attachment, between children and their primary caregivers forms the basis of their self-image, which in turn shapes the children’s future behaviour and relationships. Whether or not a child is secure depends on how consistent and appropriate the caregivers’ responses
to a child’s needs are, to questions such as “If I am hungry, will someone feed me?”, “If I am scared, who will soothe and reassure me?”, “Am I good?” and “Am I loveable?” Children who grow up with inconsistent and inappropriate responses, like Lydia, are more likely to become insecure about people and the world around them. They may suppress their needs, for fear of being punished severely or being rejected. Without appropriate responses, children cannot label their feelings, or learn to express themselves appropriately in social contexts. The Attachment Theory explains how four forms of relationships or attachments can be formed. In Lydia’s case, the Insecure-Avoidant Attachment style was formed by her mother’s neglect of her physical and emotional needs. While Lydia’s case may be extreme, emotionally distant and detached parenting can result in this attachment style as well. The overly avoidant and emotionally distant parent Insecure-Avoidant Attachment can result when the parent consistently withholds expressions of love, physical affection and verbal affirmation. Such behaviour includes: Believing that attachment relationships are not important Discouraging (verbally or physically) any action by the child to seek physical and emotional contact Over-emphasis on the use of logic and reason for the child’s emotional experiences Meeting the child’s cries for comfort or affirmation with indifference, coldness, anger, aggression, laughter and/or surprise Being over-controlling of the child’s daily activities
Positive parenting and secure attachments Parents who are able to form a healthy and secure attachment with their children can raise secure and confident children. These parents are able to: Accept themselves and their past experiences without attempts to meet their own unmet needs through their children Understand how their life experiences have shaped their personalities and parenting styles “Stand both inside and outside” their experiences to reflect on their experiences Thus, these parents: Value relationships with their children Understand that their response to their children will have an impact on their behaviour and development Are consistently sensitive and appropriately responsive to their children’s thoughts and feelings Encourage their children to be curious about the world, but are also aware when their children’s well-being is at risk Are emotionally and physically available to their children.
Despite her difficult start in life, Lydia can still develop a healthy sense of self if she can be placed with a caregiver with the positive characteristics described above, to help reshape her sense of self, learn to trust adults and allow her to feel secure. n
Parenting help can be found at the Family Service Centre (FSC) near your home. MWS operates three FSCs. To find out more, please contact u Covenant FSC – Email: admin@covenant.mws.org.sg; Tel: 6282-8558 u Daybreak FSC – Email: admin@daybreak.mws.org.sg; Tel: 6756-4995 u Tampines FSC – Email: admin@tampines.mws.org.sg; Tel: 6787-2001 Sources: • http://www.aboutkidshealth.ca • Wallin, J. D. (2007). Attachment in Psychotherapy. New York, The Guildford Press. • Rees, C. (2007). Childhood Attachment in British Journal of General Practice, pp. 920-922.
* Lydia is a composite profile of different families/children the author has encountered in the FSC setting.
METHODIST MESSAGE • NOV 2014
|9
CHURCH PROFILE
Yishun Methodist Mission:
Called to a place of its own Yeo Cheng Suan is Christian Ministry Staff with Yishun Methodist Mission.
O
n 25 Nov 2012, Yishun Methodist Mission (YMM) became the 46th local Methodist church in Singapore.
Called to the north YMM’s roots go back two decades when a group of nine, under the leadership of the Rev Chua Ooi Suah, began meeting at the BB and GB Campsite near Sembawang Park in 1994. These pioneers were led to begin Chinese mission work in the northern part of Singapore. As a preaching point of Hinghwa MC (HMC), members reached out to the Mandarin- and dialectspeaking residents. In 1997, a group of English-speaking members from HMC led by Pastor Benny Ho also went northwards to start English mission work. At the time, less than 15 per cent of the population in the north were Christians. God gave the pioneers a vision and mission to plant a church that would make a difference in the Yishun heartland. As God called YMM to make a territorial commitment and claim on its neighbourhood, the church began using the Yishun 10 Cinema for worship services in 1997.
Yishun Methodist Mission (Chinese Annual Conference) Office: 102 Yishun Ave 5, #04-125, Singapore 760102 Place of worship: A’POSH BizHub, 1 Yishun Industrial St 1, Singapore 768160 #05-10, (English service); #05-17/18, (Mandarin Service) Sunday services: 9 a.m. Contact: 6758-7491 or admin@yishunmethodist.org
A place to call our own The journey towards having a place to call our own was one of faith, unity and commitment as a church. Though nine units of one wing of A’POSH Bizhub, a light industrial building, had been bought in 2010, the process of legitimately entering the premises was challenging. While building construction was taking place during 2011 and 2012, the church earnestly sought the Lord’s favour with the relevant authorities. December 2013 saw us holding our first combined service at A’POSH. There was such joy and thanksgiving as we beheld what God had done. Thereafter, the Chinese Service remained in A’POSH Hall 1 while the second hall was prepared for the English Service. In April 2014, we entered our premises fully, having met all the legal requirements for limited use of light industrial buildings for religious purposes. We thank God for His favour and grace. God blessed us to do more for Yishun! With our own place, we now have freedom to try out new things, including: • First baptism service using an indoor pool on Easter Sunday • First indoor Family Fun Fair • First fundraising dinner at our premises
CONTRIBUTE u towards raising the remaining $878,084.00 for our premises (as of 10 Oct 2014) JOIN u us in reaching out to the community through working with youths and children in schools and educational centres PRAY u for us as we strive to be a called, caring and sacrificial community, transforming lives and impacting Yishun through Christ
We continue our series of profiling local churches from our three Annual Conferences of The Methodist Church in Singapore. As we come to have a better understanding of each other’s history and ministry, there may be opportunity to forge crosschurch partnerships and collaborations. With access to better facilities, Ministry committees can also do more: Missions We started partnering Telok Ayer Chinese Methodist Church in their short-term missions to children and youth in China. Witness and Evangelism We identified 11 HDB blocks to visit and bless. We presented our neighbours with mandarin oranges for Chinese New Year, air-plants for Easter and mooncakes for the Mid-Autumn Festival. We have been greatly encouraged as residents start to recognise our church. Outreach and Evangelism We sponsored a third Girls’ Brigade Company in 2013, making a total of six Brigade Companies in three neighbourhood schools in Yishun. Discipleship and Nurture We have stepped up programmes to develop leaders and equip members to better serve in the heartland to which God has called us. As we celebrate our second anniversary as a local conference this month, what more can we say but that God has indeed blessed us. “May the favour of the Lord our God rest upon us; establish the work of our hands for us – yes, establish the work of our hands.” (Psalm 90:17) n Photos courtesy of Yishun Methodist Mission
SOUNDINGS
Fabricating life Dr Roland Chia is Chew Hock Hin Professor of Christian Doctrine at Trinity Theological College. He worships at the Fairfield Preaching Point in Woodlands.
A
ccording to an article in the May issue of The Scientist, an international team of researchers has successfully synthesised from scratch one of the sixteen chromosomes in the yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae. Despite altering one-sixth of its base pairs, the scientists found that the yeast cells from artificial chromosome SynIII were indistinguishable from the original version. Tom Ellis from Imperial College, London, who is one of the researchers, opined that this discovery is “a landmark in synthetic biology”. Synthetic biology may be best described as the application of engineering principles to biology, with the view not only of redesigning an existing living system but also creating novel ones. “Synthetic biologists,” writes Markus Schmidt, the founder of Biofaction, “use artificial molecules to reproduce emergent behaviour from the natural biology, with the goal of creating artificial life or seeking interchangeable biological parts to assemble them into devices and systems that function in a manner not found in nature.” The public face of synthetic biology is geneticist and entrepreneur Craig Venter, the founder of Synthetic Genomics, a private company whose mission is to engineer new forms of life. In 2010, scientists at the Craig Venter Institute created the world’s first synthetic life form at the cost of more than US$40 million in what has been described as “a defining moment in biology”. Scientists maintain that the promise of synthetic biology is truly staggering.
In the field of biomedicine, scientists could develop complex molecular devices for tissue regeneration, smart drugs and personalised medicine. Scientists could also offer creative solutions to the world’s energy issues by manufacturing custom-made microbes for creating fuels and for performing artificial photosynthesis. Synthetic organisms could be used to detect and remove pollutants from the environment. Theologians and ethicists have raised a number of grave concerns surrounding this new science. One of the major concerns has to do with ‘bio-security’ as the new technology could be used to create bacteria or viruses for military or terrorist purposes. Although some commentators argue that given the complexity and cost of synthetic biology, such abuses are unlikely to occur, the fact remains that with this new technology, the work of ‘bioweaponeers’ has become much easier. In 2003, the classified US CIA document entitled ‘The Darker Bioweapons Future’ stated that: “Growing understanding of the complex biochemical pathways that underlie life processes has the potential to enable a class of new, more virulent biological agents to be engineered to attack distinct biochemical pathways and elicit specific effects.” Synthetic biology is accompanied by all the conundrums associated with dual-use technologies: the same science, that may treat some of the worst diseases, could also be used to create some of the most terrible weapons. Another major concern has to do with safety issues (‘bio-errorism’). There is the risk that the artificial organisms produced in the laboratory may develop unexpected properties that are detrimental to human health. There is also the risk that these synthetic, self-replicating entities
may be accidentally introduced to the natural environment. Moreover, these novel, artificial microbes that enter the environment may evolve, developing properties not found in nature which may cause untold damage to the ecosystem. One important way to prevent both ‘bioterrorism’ and ‘bio-errorism’ is to achieve the right balance between self-governance within the scientific community and statutory regulations. But, as some commentators have pointed out, given the widespread availability of synthetic biology tools, regulating this new science would prove challenging. In June 2006, The Guardian announced that one of its journalists was able to purchase a fragment of synthetic DNA of Variola major (the virus that causes smallpox) from a commercial gene synthesis company in the UK without having to undergo any screening process. According to Richard H. Ebright, a biochemist at Rutgers University, it would now be possible for a person “to produce a full-length 1918 influenza virus or Ebola virus genomes, along with kits containing detailed procedures and other materials for the reconstruction … it is possible to advertise and sell the product”. Reflecting on the profound risks surrounding this young science, Philip Ball, the consultant editor of Nature, writes: “If ever there were a science guaranteed to cause public alarm and outrage, this is it. Compared with conventional biotechnology and genetic engineering, the risks involved in synthetic biology are far scarier.” n
“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.
METHODIST MESSAGE • NOV 2014
| 11
YELLOW RIBBON PROJECT
The Yellow Ribbon: Do more than Grace Toh is the Assistant Editor of Methodist Message and has been a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church for most of her life. She put together this article with valuable input from Mr Kenneth Foo and Mr Elric Toh from the Community Action for the Rehabilitation of Ex-Offenders (CARE) Network Office.
A boy’s head being shaved. A man writing a penitent letter to his wife. His son asking, “Is Daddy coming home today?” And a simple yellow ribbon.
T
his moving TV advertisement has touched many viewers, and is part of the message that the Yellow Ribbon Project (YRP) continues to share throughout Singapore: “Help Unlock the Second Prison” – the societal stigma faced by exoffenders and their families. The YRP was launched in 2004 as a nationwide public education campaign aimed at changing society’s mindset to give ex-offenders a second chance in life, and to bring about societal acceptance of them and their families. It is spearheaded by the Community Action for the Rehabilitation of Ex-Offenders (CARE) Network, a group of community and government organisations responsible for the rehabilitation of ex-offenders. Through the successful reintegration of ex-offenders as responsible and contributing citizens, the YRP seeks to help create a more inclusive community, one that will lead to a safer and more secure Singapore. The project’s name was inspired by the hit song from the 1970s, ‘Tie a Yellow Ribbon Round the Old Oak Tree’, which is reportedly based on the real-life tale of an ex-offender’s journey to forgiveness. The act of wearing a yellow ribbon pin as a sign of offering acceptance, forgiveness and second chances to ex-offenders has since become one of the project’s signature activities.
The Yellow Ribbon Fund (YRF) was registered as an Institute of Public Character (IPC) in 2004 to administer programmes and services for ex-offenders and their families. Ten years later, the programmes have not only made their mark on society’s acceptance of ex-offenders, but also made a substantial difference in the lives of ex-offenders, with more than 25,000 beneficiaries and their families receiving help from the YRF. These include education and employability training, short-term accommodation support if shelter is needed upon release, and programmes supporting families of those incarcerated. Success Story – Mr Hanniel Choong It has been a challenge for Mr Hanniel Choong to reintegrate into society. In 1977, Hanniel went to prison for the first time for drug-related charges. The 49-year-old has spent time in and out of the prison over a period of almost 20 years. When he was behind bars, he learned about the word of God through the Christian counselling programmes by the volunteer organisation The Helping Hand. It taught him the real meaning of life and the need to change for the better. Hanniel expressed that it was a struggle gaining employment with a disclosed background of drug addiction and crime. It was no walk in the park either to rebuild trust with his family, who almost gave up on him during his repeated incarceration. It took him years to win back their trust and confidence. After his release in 1996, he joined the Adam Road Presbyterian Church (ARPC) as a member. Two years later, ARPC sent him to a halfway house called The House of Hope in Cebu, Philippines. He worked there and helped rehabilitate drug addicts for three years. He then returned to Singapore and now works full-time as a Maintenance Officer in ARPC. The Yellow Ribbon Prison Run held on 14 September this year raised more than $130,000 through donations from 10 organisations pledging their support through the #YRselfie activity.
wear it. 407, Upper Changi Rd North, Singapore 507658 yellow_ribbon_proj@yahoo.com.sg www.yellowribbon.org.sg 6513-1597
Mr David Sim does more than just wear the yellow ribbon – he helps steer exoffenders towards transformation and reintegration.
Married with three children, Hanniel has a passion for running. He helped raise $10,000 for the YRF by being part of the team that competed in the Aviva Ironman 70.3 Singapore Triathlon in 2009. Do more than wear it Creating an environment that supports ex-offenders like Hanniel in turning their lives around requires members of society to “do more than wear [the yellow ribbon]”, as the YRP exhorts in its latest series of advertisements. Mr David Sim is one of the volunteers featured in the campaign by YRP. A cabbie, he divides his time between driving passengers to their destinations and steering ex-offenders towards transformation and reintegration. Like David, volunteers can offer hope and opportunities to ex-offenders and their families by supporting events or aftercare programmes. The YRP is also encouraging individuals and companies to step forward as youth advocates and corporate partners. n
“The Lord has sent me… to proclaim freedom for the captives and release from darkness for the prisoners.” Isaiah 61:1
To find out more on volunteering opportunities with the YRP, please email yellow_ribbon_proj@yahoo.com.sg
The Yellow Ribbon Fund (YRF) provides financial support for: • The provision of rehabilitative and aftercare services to inmates and ex-offenders during and after their discharge from custody, and supporting the provision of such services by other partner organisations • Rehabilitation and reintegration support programmes for family members of ex-offenders after their discharge from custody • Public awareness programmes aimed at creating awareness of the need to give second chances to exoffenders, generating acceptance of ex-offenders back into society and inspiring community action to support the rehabilitation and reintegration of ex-offenders. For online donations to YRF, please visit www.sggives.org/yellowribbon
Upcoming Activities: Wear-A-Yellow-Ribbon (year-round, culminating in September each year) Current serving inmates make yellow ribbons by hand for partners to pledge and raise funds for the YRP. By wearing the ribbons, members of the public show their support for reformed individuals and their families in starting afresh – helping them to rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society. If you would like to obtain yellow ribbons and organise fundraising activities at your workplace or school, please email yellow_ribbon_proj@ yahoo.com.sg
Yellow Ribbon Roving Art Exhibition To bring prison art into the community, the YRP is organising a series of roving art exhibitions. Through the exhibitions, the community will be given a rare opportunity to interact with and appreciate inmates’ original artworks in the heartlands of Singapore. This platform allows inmates to express their hopes and aspirations through art, showcase their artistic talents and gain the community’s acceptance. Members of the public are welcome to adopt any paintings and all proceeds will be donated to the YRF. If you are keen to bring the exhibition to your workplace or gallery, just drop us a note and we will get in touch with you. Exhibition Schedule • 3-24 Feb 2015, That Spare Room, 1 River Valley Road Photos courtesy of the Yellow Ribbon Project METHODIST MESSAGE • NOV 2014
| 13
TELL ME, PASTOR
Holy Communion The Rev George R. Martzen is a United Methodist clergy and missionary under the General Board of Global Ministries. Currently assigned to the Chinese Annual Conference in Singapore, he is a pastoral staff with Paya Lebar Chinese Methodist Church.
What is Holy Communion?
H
oly Communion is a sacrament which Christ instructed His followers to practise regularly. Also known as the Lord’s Supper or the Last Supper, it re-enacts the fellowship meal that Jesus had with His disciples on the night before His crucifixion, where He equated the bread to His own body that would be broken on the cross and the wine to His own blood that would be shed. We call this meal ‘Communion’, because we are communing with God and with other Christians, or the ‘Eucharist’, after the Greek word for thanksgiving. The Roman Catholic Church refers to it as ‘Mass’ and in the Orthodox churches, the ‘Divine Liturgy’. We share the meal in remembrance of Jesus’ death, and confess our sins for which He died. Communion also celebrates Christ’s resurrection and continuing Lordship over the church, until He returns and together we feast at His heavenly banquet. The meaning can be summed up in the acclamation, “Christ has died; Christ is risen; Christ will come again!” Is communion in the Methodist Church very different from that in other Christian churches? No. However, some doctrines and practices are common to Methodist congregations – using grape juice rather than wine; coming forward to receive the elements rather than receiving them while remaining seated; and practising the ‘open table’, where Christians of any denomination may commune with the Methodists.
Doctrinally, Methodists affirm that Holy Communion is a ‘means of grace’ – an outward sign, word or action through which we experience God’s grace. Methodists also recognise that for those who receive in faith, Christ is truly present in the meal. Why do we have communion only once a month? John Wesley encouraged the Methodists to observe communion weekly, like early Christians did. But he also insisted that only a duly ordained pastor could offer communion. As Methodism spread, there were not enough clergy, so the ordained pastor might only get to the local congregation once a month to serve communion. Hence, the practice has stuck. Many Methodist communities are now seeing the value of serving communion more often. Can just anyone receive communion? No. The invitation to the Lord’s Table is to all who love Christ, who sincerely repent of their sin and seek to live in peace with one another. Traditionally, those who come for communion should be baptised believers, but the pastor may, at his or her discretion, receive non-baptised persons who come in faith to communion. However, they should be counselled afterward to prepare for baptism. My church uses individual wafers and cups for communion, but others use a single cup and a loaf of bread. Why the difference? The difference springs mostly from practicality and perceived hygiene. In the New Testament, Jesus broke bread (a single loaf) and passed the pieces around to the disciples, followed by a single cup or chalice He shared among the disciples. Individual wafers were later used because of crumbling bread, and the individual cups out of concern for drinking out of the same cup. Alternatively, some use intinction, where the piece of bread is broken from a single loaf and dipped in the chalice. n
In the first of a two-part series on the topic of Holy Communion, we explore its meaning, and the who, what and when of Holy Communion for Methodists. Part two will address deeper questions about communion. METHODIST MESSAGE • NOV 2014
| 15
YOUTH IN FOCUS
Instilling accountability through mobile phones
If you have concerns about your child’s ability to make wise choices with camera and Internet options, find a phone without these features.
Adapted from Focus on Your Child’s Teen Phases. © 2008 Focus on the Family. All rights reserved. International copyright secured. • Used by permission of Focus on the Family Singapore, a non-profit organisation dedicated to helping families thrive. • For more information, visit www.family.org.sg
P
ast generations negotiated with their parents about pocket money, curfews, and dating rules. Today’s parents have to add mobile phones to the list. Though it seems to be standard fare, it is not an absolute teen or child right. There are concerns when it comes to giving your child a phone. A good approach parents can take in deciding whether to let your child have a mobile phone is to evaluate your teen’s age, maturity level and the sense of responsibility displayed thus far. Do also consider the following boundaries: Limitations of equipment and plans If you have concerns about your child’s ability to make wise choices with camera and Internet options, find a phone without these features. And even if the phone is equipped with such capabilities, you can choose a limited data plan and install filters. The power of the dollar Perhaps the easiest way to set boundaries with mobile phones is through money. A mobile phone can cost between $70 and $700, and most plans that include a decent number of talk-time ‘minutes’ and text messages can range from $30 to $100 per month. You may opt for a family mobile phone plan in which you have one bill but your child pays for his portion in full or in part. If you allow your teen to have an individual plan, remember that consequences teach lessons. There have been teens who exceeded their mobile phone limits and discovered they owed the phone company several hundred dollars on their first bill. By requiring a teen to pay for a mobile phone and his use of it, you encourage maturity and instil accountability. Manners and technology While dining out, we often see adults as well as children looking down at their smartphones and tech gadgets. Adults and teens alike need to relearn their manners and use them where technology is concerned. Set and enforce family mobile phone rules that reflect consideration, moderation and manners. A few reasonable rules may include: • No technology at the dinner table; • No texting while in the middle of a conversation; and • No mobile phones when visitors are at the house. This applies to adults in the family as well. Accountability One of the dangers of mobile phones is the lack of accountability. Consider having a rule that all mobile phones have to be turned off and given to parents at the end of the day, and that no mobile phone may be used while driving. Also, establish the understanding that mobile phone bills are not private property. As a parent, you have the right (and responsibility) to know whom your teen is interacting with. Emphasise accountability, not control. Mobile phones are a communication tool that can make family contact easier, but not without risks. Weigh the pros and cons of a mobile phone before purchasing one for your child, and establish clear boundaries upfront. Don’t be afraid to enforce these boundaries, for you are teaching lifelong principles of consideration for others, consequences, self-control, financial stewardship and accountability. Now that sounds like a good use of minutes! n
METHODIST MESSAGE • NOV 2014
| 17
HYMNS & SONGS
The ‘O’ Antiphons: Hope for Christ’s return O Come, O Come, Emmanuel (UMH 211) O come, O come, Emmanuel, and ransom captive Israel that mourns in lonely exile here until the Son of God appear. R: Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel! O come, Thou Wisdom, from on high, and order all things far and nigh; to us the path of knowledge show, and teach us in her ways to go. R O come, O come, Thou Lord of might, who to Thy tribes on Sinai’s height in ancient times did give the law in cloud and majesty and awe. R O come, Thou Rod of Jesse’s stem, from ev’ry foe deliver them that trust Thy mighty power to save, and give them vict’ry o’er the grave. R O come, Thou Key of David, come and open wide our heav’nly home; make safe the way that leads on high that we no more have cause to sigh. R O come, Thou Dayspring from on high, and cheer us by thy drawing nigh; disperse the gloomy clouds of night and death’s dark shadow put to flight. R O come, Desire of the nations, bind in one the hearts of all mankind; bid every strife and quarrel cease and fill the world with heaven’s peace. R Text: Author unknown, 9th century Latin. Public Domain
Judith Mosomos is Acting Director of Worship and Church Music at the Methodist School of Music, and a member of Kampong Kapor Methodist Church.
Words to know: Antiphon – a verse, usually from Scripture, that is sung after or before a canticle Canticle – a song taken from the Scriptures other than the Psalms Vespers – an evening prayer Magnificat – song of Mary (see UMH 199)
‘O
Come, O Come, Emmanuel’ is an Advent hymn that is a staple in the season’s repertoire. Originally in Latin, this hymn entered the Roman liturgy in the 9th century. It was used as an antiphon to the Magnificat during Vespers. In the 12th century, the text was set in a hymn form; the “Rejoice” refrain was added then. As Advent emphasises the coming of Christ, the word “O” signifies the hope for Christ’s return. The hymn was sung over seven days before Christmas. Stanza 1 was sung on 17 Dec, stanza 2 on 18 Dec, and so on until 23 Dec. Each “O” antiphon has a name for the coming Messiah that can be found in the Old Testament as well as the New Testament: Emmanuel (Isaiah 7:14; Matthew 1:23), Wisdom (Isaiah 11:2; 1 Cor. 1:30), Lord of Might (Deut. 10:17; 1 Tim. 6:15-16), Rod of Jesse (Isaiah 11:1, 10; Romans 15:12), Key of David (Isaiah 22:22; Rev. 3:7), Dayspring from on high or Bright morning star (Numbers 24:17; Rev. 22:16), and Desire of Nations (Jeremiah 10:7; Rev. 15:4). The “Rejoice” refrain declares the coming of the Redeemer as referred to in Isaiah 59:20.
This hymn entered the United Methodist Hymnal (UMH) in 1935 and was translated into English by John Mason Neale in 1851. The original Latin text nascetur pro te, Israel was translated into English as “shall come to you”. A more accurate meaning would be “shall be born to you”. Thus, the original Latin text celebrated the first coming of Christ. The English translation allows us to celebrate both the first and the second coming of Christ. The tune VENI EMMANUEL was originally music for a Requiem Mass (Mass for the departed) in the 15th century. It was adapted in 1854 by Thomas Helmore, an Anglican priest. Helmore interlined the English translation of the stanza and the refrain with the chant melody. The marriage of text and tune was perfect! The stanzas are meant to be sung in unison and the refrain in harmony. The hymn may be sung in full or stanzas may be assigned for the four Advent Sundays. n Resources: • Brink, Emily R. and Bert Polman, eds. The Psalter Hymnal Handbook (Michigan: CRC Publications, 1998), pp. 475-477. • Westermeyer, Paul. Let the People Sing: Hymn Tunes in Perspective (Chicago: GIA Publications, 2005), p. 32-33. • Young, Carlton R. Companion to the United Methodist Hymnal (Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1993), p. 505 – 506.
METHODIST MESSAGE • NOV 2014
| 19
PAGE FROM THE PAST
The Rev Dr Ho Seng Ong:
A trailblazer in Asian Methodism Dr Tong Hoo Ing contributes to the Methodist Message as a volunteer writer. A retired neurologist, he also volunteers with the Bethany Methodist Nursing Home. He worships at Wesley Methodist Church.
I
n his lifetime as a trailblazing educator and pastor, the late Rev Dr Ho Seng Ong used his God-given gifts in service to God and man, all for His glory.
were baptised on the same day in 1914. Six years later, they got married. Their union was blessed with four children: Robert, Edward, Mary and Ruth. The late Rev Dr Ho faithfully served in various roles in the Methodist Church, many as the first Asian and as an ordained minister. Among them were as the first Asian minister of Wesley Church, Malacca and KL Wesley; the first Asian Secretary of the Annual Conference; and the first Asian member of The Methodist Board of Missions in New York. He was also the first chair of the Malaya Annual Conference – Historical Society, President of the Malayan Christian Council (which became the Council of Churches of Malaysia), a District Superintendent and Editor of Methodist Message.
A Man of Letters Born in 1898 in Kuala Selangor, Malaysia, the Rev Dr Ho excelled academically. He was the first Asian Methodist teacher to obtain a B.A. (Hons) from University College, London University. Completing his Bachelor’s degree in just one year, he went on to get a Master’s degree (with distinction). The Rev Dr Ho had an early start in his role as an educator. At the age of 16, in between his studies, he started teaching at Methodist Boys’ School, Kuala Lumpur (MBSKL), where he had studied. He returned again to his alma mater almost 40 years later as its first Asian principal. “Although a man of superb talents Before becoming MBSKL principal, and ability he was a humble, he achieved another two firsts – the The War Years affectionate and compassionate After the fall of Malaya in 1941, the Ho first Asian Methodist to be appointed Principal of a large school, Angloman. He liked to help, as he said, family evacuated to Singapore, together Chinese School (ACS) Malacca, and of with 20 young ladies from Shellabear ‘the lame duck’ and to ‘help a ACS Penang. Hall (a Methodist girls’ hostel). After lame dog over a stile’.” After MBSKL, the Rev Dr Ho was moving into the Bishop’s house at 10 appointed the Methodist Education Mount Sophia, the Rev Dr Ho and his Secretary, again the first Asian to serve in this position. His son, Eddie, became temporary guardians of 26 girls at the nearby book Methodist Schools in Malaysia: their record and history Nind Home, where the Shellabear Hall girls stayed. (1964) is an authoritative reference on the Methodist educational Prior to the fall of Singapore to the Japanese, he and the late system. It is the legacy of a man who was the chief architect of Rev. S. M. Thevathasan were jointly entrusted with the affairs of the Methodist school system over two decades of the mid-20th the Methodist Church after most of the missionaries sailed home century. to the USA. Despite the harrying account he shared with friends of his A Man of God experiences during the Japanese Occupation, the late Rev Dr Ho As a student at MBSKL, the Rev Dr Ho was exposed to the was often heard saying “God is good”, reminding those around Methodist Church at a young age. In the Aug-Sep 1957 issue of him of the mercies of God he had personally experienced. Methodist Message, he wrote: “For something like six or seven He passed away in Singapore in 1965. Paying tribute at the years as a little fellow I studied and played and lived … on the late Rev Dr Ho’s memorial service, the late Bishop Emeritus periphery of the life and activities of the Church. … The time Dr T. R. Doraisamy said: “Although a man of superb talents and when I really made my entry into the Church was when I joined ability he was a humble, affectionate and compassionate man. He the Epworth League in 1911.” liked to help, as he said, ‘the lame duck’ and to ‘help a lame dog The Epworth League (predecessor of the Methodist Youth over a stile’.” n Fellowship) was where he met his wife, Ms Wong Hong Neo; they Photo courtesy of The Methodist Church Archives, Singapore METHODIST MESSAGE • NOV 2014
| 21
POEMS
Another Kind Of Water Dr Oliver Seet is a member of Wesley Methodist Church and a Board Director of the Metropolitan YMCA.
How strange that he should ask me, a Samaritan, for water from the well of our Patriarch, Jacob to slake his thirst, this man from Galilee, this Jew, with whom we have no truck. He has such quiet princely dignity, such orchards of peace in his countenance, and eyes that read the chronicles of my soul; He sees through the curtains of deception in my words. How can he, a stranger know so intimately all I have done. Is he God in disguise?
Yet there is no quagmire of intimidation in his gaze, but a liberation that comes from revelation of the truth. He offers the gift of Living Water whose springs are seated in the matrix of the second birth that he alone can actuate. Lord give me that Living Water that I may thirst no more. John 4:5-42
November SUPPORTING THE BOYS’ BRIGADE (BB) SHARE-A-GIFT PROJECT
20 Nov – 17 Dec
Collection boxes at: FairPrice Xtra (AMK Hub, Jurong Point, nex Mall, JEM, SportsHub); FairPrice Finest (Bukit Timah Plaza, Junction 8, Thomson Plaza, Bedok Mall); and FairPrice (Bukit Merah, Eastpoint Mall, Tampines Mall and Toa Payoh HDB Hub) outlets This Christmas, join 3,500 BB boys and officers in their annual food donation drive and/or fulfil specific wishes of the less fortunate. Drop off rice, oil, condiments, biscuits and other consumable food items at collection boxes in selected FairPrice outlets, which will be packed into food hampers for distribution. Wish tags bearing beneficiaries’ requests for useful items – such as diapers and educational toys for autistic children – will be hung on trees, for the general public to fulfil if they wish to. Organised by The Boys’ Brigade in Singapore.
nov
20
For more info, visit www.bbshare.sg, email bbshare@bb.org.sg, or call 1800-227-4273.
ATTENDING REQUIEM BY CELEBRATION CHORUS
22 & 23 Nov (Saturday – Sunday), 7.30 p.m. Anglo-Chinese School (Junior), 16 Winstedt Road
Enjoy an evening of worship as the Celebration Chorus, an ecumenical choir, presents the classic Mozart’s Requiem with soloists and an organist. The presentation is free and open to the public, and doors open at 6.45 p.m. An offering will be received to cover the presentation cost. Organised by the Celebration Chorus.
nov
22-23
For more info, visit www.celebrationchorus.net
REGISTERING FOR THE ALPHA THANKSGIVING CONCERT
2 Dec (Tuesday), 7 p.m. – 9 p.m.
Wesley Methodist Church, Wesley Hall, 5 Fort Canning Road Come for Alpha Singapore’s thanksgiving concert if you know of, have been running, or have attended the Alpha programme before in your church, office, campus or community. Enjoy an evening with local soul-pop singer-songwriter Sarah Cheng De-Winne, with light bites provided from 7 to 7.30 p.m. Organised by Alpha Singapore. Admission is free. Register by 25 Nov.
dec
2
For more info, email events@alpha.org.sg
SIGNING UP EARLY FOR THE GLOBAL LEADERSHIP SUMMIT SINGAPORE (CHINESE)
30-31 Jan, 2015 (Friday-Saturday), 9 a.m. – 5.30 p.m. Elim Church Assembly of God, 1079, Serangoon Road, Singapore 328182
The Global Leadership Summit (GLS) is a two-day event, featuring video-cast talks on leadership by a diverse lineup of speakers such as Bill Hybels, Founder and Senior Pastor of Willow Creek Community Church, and Susan Cain, best-selling author and viral TED speaker on The Power of Introverts. Chinese subtitles will be shown on the videos. A key feature of the GLS is the facilitated process time that helps participants turn good intentions into positive action. Facilitation and worship will be conducted in Mandarin. Sign up, and be inspired to “Lead where you are”! Organised by The Global Leadership Summit Singapore. Super Early Bird rates (before 31 Oct): $120 per person, group rates of $100 per person in a group of 4. After 31 Oct, the rates will be $150 and $125 respectively.
jan
30-31
For more info, visit www.glssingapore.org, email info@glssingapore.org, or call 8418-3306.
METHODIST MESSAGE • NOV 2014
| 23
THINK
Growing old, ageing well Kwa Kiem Kiok is a local preacher at Trinity Methodist Church, and teaches missions-related subjects at East Asia School of Theology. She and her husband, a Trinity Annual Conference pastor, enjoy walking in the outdoors.
‘A
geing’ is seen as a problem today, with dire warnings to take critical measures in order to sustain our economy in an ageing population. The quest for eternal youth is embedded in human culture, seen in the story of Shangri-La in James Hilton’s Lost Horizon; and the search for the elixir of eternal youth in Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. The cosmetic industry makes billions from ‘age-defying’ lotions, serums and creams, stoking our human desire to keep grey hair and wrinkles at bay. In church, we focus much time, resources and energy on the children and youth ministries, but the seniors are left to fend for themselves. While the resources and stability that seniors give the church are appreciated, little effort is made to think holistically and theologically about what it means to grow old; neither is there much discussion on how we can age well. Scripture, however, has no such bias. Rather, it celebrates and honours old people. While it is true that Jesus died relatively young, many within the wider faith community were old and respected. Abraham and Moses were in their 80s when they were specifically called to their ministries. Anna, the daughter of Penuel, was a holy and righteous woman, who was privileged in her old age to see and bless the baby Jesus (Luke 2:36-38). While Daniel in the lion’s den has often been depicted as a young boy, he was probably in reality an old man by then if we follow the story of his career. In Scripture, “old” is sometimes used to refer to times in the past when God was faithful or when Israel sinned (Deut 32:7, Isa 63:11); or to the sinful nature to be put away (1 Cor 5:7, 8). But God’s people will be blessed to bless others, dream and serve the Lord, regardless of age (Jer 31:13, Joel 2:28). Old people are not irrelevant to the community – they will continue to bear fruit (Psa 92:14).
Therefore, ageing is not a process to be avoided or delayed, but a blessing to be accepted graciously and gracefully. As a church, we should make deliberate efforts to include the elderly in our families and community, and invite their opinions and input in making decisions. Let us live honestly, and embrace the limitations in our age: a toddler cannot run up the stairs and an old person may have to walk with a stick. Also, we should look and behave in age-appropriate ways, and expect others to do the same. However, we can always greet each day with child-like joy in the gifts it brings and maintain a youthful curiosity about life and the world. Secondly, let us honour the elderly, and not view them in economic terms. Many seniors in our midst have much wisdom to impart. They may not be savvy about phone apps, but they know about finding grace in the midst of suffering. They have experienced the faithfulness of the Lord. They can share how to love, care and support one another in God’s family. These are conversations we must have so that all of us can live fully and well, and eventually, die gracefully and with dignity. Let’s honour the seniors and retirees, let them continue to have presence and a voice in our church community. n
We can always greet each day with child-like joy in the gifts it brings and maintain a youthful curiosity about life and the world.