Wesley Tidings Newsletter Issue 02 2016

Preach the word; be prepared in season and out of season; correct, rebuke and encourage – with great patience and careful instruction. 2 Timothy 4:2 (NIV)

T I D I N G S

Bi-monthly magazine of Wesley Methodist Church (Singapore)

WesleyISSUE 2 | March - April 2016

MCI (P) 014/01/2016

Wesley Tidings ISSUE 2 | March-April 20162

Around the same time last year, I wrote about how a tree in my house hosted the birth of a bird. I titled the editorial “Empty” and further shared that one day, I

found the nest empty as both mother and baby bird had flown away. I then delved into how the women, who went eagerly to anoint Jesus at the tomb but found it empty, must have felt.

The bird saga continues! Through the year, birds are fond of building nests in that same tree, although on different branches. And some two months ago, the tree was again a hive of activity – and noise. A mother bird was roosting again!

And one day, some noise emanated from the nest – it was not the type that I usually hear when a mother bird returns or when other birds drop by. Nevertheless, I didn’t think much of it. But when the noise reached a level which compelled me to check on it, I was too late! A squirrel had violently upset the nest and caused the egg to land on the ground where it broke. It had also attacked the mother bird who perched by – helplessly! Looking on, I was similarly helpless!

I now know what it feels like to witness murder and destruction – laughable as the comparison may be to what is happening in the world. I was nonetheless engulfed by a sense of utter helplessness and hit by the senselessness of it all.

And at an Easter service, when the video of Jesus’ crucifixion was shown, I felt it again. I was mortified, and felt the excruciating pain He must have endured at the hands of murderers and doubters. Yet, we know His suffering and death was not in vain – if we remember that our sins were also nailed to that cross He hung on:

But he was pierced for our transgressions, he was crushed for our iniquities;the punishment that brought us peace was on him, and by his wounds we are healed. (Isa 53:5)

So let us pray this Easter season that what our Saviour had undergone for us would indeed not be in vain – that our world, broken by much senseless violence and destruction would be filled with His healing love and peace.

02 From The Editor

03 So Says Our PIC

marketplace04 Christians In the Marketplace

archives06 Wesley Sanctuary Upgrading Project Church Renovations

ministries12 Communications TIDINGS Mail-out

13 Communications Dedication Service

14 Missions

16 Women’s Society of Christian Service

18 Lunar New Year Evangelistic Outreach

20 Christian Outreach & Social Concerns

23 Transitions

24 Photo Moment

from the editorcontents

Peggie Chan

The Cross, Pain and Healing

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Holy Week Renewal Services speaker Pastor Albert Clavo said, “Give everything you got to God because God gave everything He got for you.” Is that how you live your life? Do you give God the best of your life, your whole life or does God get only the leftovers of your life?

The king of Bhutan who came last year to mourn with Singapore said, “I met LKY whom I admire greatly and I ask for blessings. And I remember so clearly and if I may be so candid, LKY looked at me and laugh, ‘I don’t give blessings.’ After that I said, ‘Well, your excellency, maybe you can give me some advice.’ And he said, ‘I can tell you one thing. It’s not how you begin the journey. It’s how you end it.’”

“It’s not how you begin the journey. It’s how you end it.” How will your journey end? At the end of the day, what have you got? Will it be an eternal legacy?

Pastor Shih Ming

so says our PIC

At The End Of The Day, What Have I Got?In the midst of this year’s Holy Week, the nation paused to

remember Singapore’s founding father, Mr Lee Kuan Yew. During the mourning of his passing last year, many of his speeches were retrieved from the archives and shared with the nation. One of his quotes caught my attention, and I think it encapsulates the life of Mr Lee Kuan Yew. He said, “I have spent my life, so much of it, building up this country. There’s nothing more I need to do. At the end of the day, what have I got? A successful Singapore. What have I given up? My life.”

Mr Lee gave his life to build a successful Singapore – a legacy that is evident to all. In the words of his son, our current Prime Minister: “St Paul’s Cathedral in London was built by Sir Christopher Wren. He was the architect, and he is buried in the cathedral, which was his masterpiece, his life’s work. The Latin epitaph on his grave reads: Si monumentum requiris, circumspice (If you seek his monument, look around you). Mr Lee Kuan Yew built Singapore. To those who seek Mr Lee Kuan Yew’s monument, Singaporeans can reply proudly: ‘Look around you’.”

Look around you and you will see the legacy of Mr Lee. As much as we desire for this legacy to continue forever, the reality is that Singapore will one day become a mere historical fact; no city, no country and no empire has remained in perpetuity. Every one of the legacies of men will pass into oblivion with the passage of time.

Look around you and you will also see the legacy of the One whom we remember during Holy Week. Like Mr Lee and all human beings who ever walked the earth, He died. But unlike everyone else, He rose from the dead on the third day. He is Jesus the Christ.

The legacy of Jesus is the Church. The Church that began more than 2,000 years ago is still standing strong. She was persecuted and continues to be. External threats and internal strife have not stopped her from advancing towards the day of Jesus’ Second Coming. Jesus is building His Church. And the amazing thing is that Jesus invites us to participate in building His Church. Have you accepted the invitation?

Mr Lee gave his life to built a successful Singapore. What are you giving your life for? At the end of the day, what will you have? Since the Church is the only legacy that will last through eternity, it makes sense to give our lives to build the Church. Our

“It’s not how you begin the journey. It’s how you end it.” How will your journey end? At the end of the day, what have you got? Will it be an eternal legacy?


Christians In The Marketplace

marketplace

This is the second in a series of articles on Christians in the Marketplace.

Trust“Trust Him, when darkest thoughts assail thee. Trust Him, when thy faith is small. Trust Him, when simply to trust is the hardest thing of all.”

A plaque with these words has been sitting on my desk for the most part of my career – it has accompanied me, from one company to another. It was given to me during a very difficult time of my career. And though things have not been all plain-sailing after, it reminds me that whatever the situation may be, I can trust God and this gives me peace.

We face all kinds of challenges everyday – deadlines and targets to meet, decisions big or small, uncertainties in a job

Faith@work – Upholding Our Values

situation, company politics and backstabbing, disagreement with colleagues and bosses, attempts to balance work and home etc. But as Christians we have the confidence that our Abba Father is in control of all situations and He is concerned about us. Therefore, we can put our trust in Him no matter what the circumstances may be.

I remember the time when I was involved in some major merger and acquisition projects. Negotiation was going on day and night, everyone was working very hard and some were losing sleep due to anxiety about the deal. They asked me what do I do to keep calm, and if I could sleep at night? My answer was from Psalm 127:1 : “Unless the LORD builds the house, the

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We want success but success must be built on the foundation of the rock if it is to stand the test of time and God’s approval. As Matthew 7:24-27 says:

Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock. But everyone who hears these words of mine and does not put them into practice is like a foolish man who built his house on sand. The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house, and it fell with a great crash.

Salt and LightLastly, we are called to be the “salt and light” of the world. Wherever we are placed, we should seize the opportunity to influence, to uphold Godly principles and to reflect God’s character. I will be the first to admit that this is easier said than done.

I was once in a situation when I really needed some business to meet the sales target for the year. A big deal came along and would have boosted the company’s sales. The sales team was excited. But the customer was soon found to be involved in some shady business. It was tempting to just carry on with the deal and explain it away since it was not an illegal transaction. But I turned it down. My conscience reminded me that while it may be legal, it was not moral.

As we journey together as a Christian community in the marketplace, let us continue to encourage one another, uphold each other in prayer and reflect God’s love to the world.

Lucas Chow

Lucas Chow was with Hewlett Packard for 20 years before he assumed various chief executive positions in Singtel Mobile, MediaCorp and Far East Orchard. He retired from Far East Orchard and Far East Organisation in Sep 2014. Currently, he serves as Chairman of Health Promotion Board, Vice Chairman of Yellow Ribbon Fund and he is a member of the Board of Trustees at National University of Singapore. Lucas is a recipient of 2015’s National Day Public Service Medal.

builder labors in vain….” This doesn’t mean I do nothing and just sit and wait. Instead, I use the wisdom God has given me and after putting in my best effort during the day, before I sleep, I thank God for the day and commit my work into His hand.

Building a foundation on the RockBut seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Matthew 6:33-34

In this time and age, we demand instant gratification; speed is of the essence. Don’t get me wrong, I like speed! As an older person, I have little patience and have no time to waste as I am ‘nearing home’ – every minute counts.

While I was in the telecommunication industry some years ago, I ask my colleagues to follow the “0123 principle” when developing applications and services on mobile devices. “0” stands for zero user manual, that is, the application should be so user-friendly that no manual is needed. “1” refers to one button on the phone, “2”, the number of times we need to click on that button and “3”, the number of seconds it would take to get the information or service required. At the core of this vision is speed and efficiency.

But very often, in the pursuit of speed and success, we don’t stop to ask if what we do is righteous and aligned with Kingdom values.

For example, if we apply the ‘0123” principle to develop a mobile gambling application, even though it may be an instant hit, how are we going to deal with our conscience and stand before God?

There are suggestions that the free economy in the West is successful because it was founded on Christian principles. Free economy as defined by Webster is an economy that is based upon the principles of private enterprise and has minimum governmental restrictions. I often wonder if what is happening in our world is due to private enterprises’ focus only on profitability and not following godly principles?

We hear of buildings collapsing because they are built with inferior materials, consumer products and food containing dangerous substances, pollution worsening, oceans being over-fished and the list goes on.

Wesley Tidings ISSUE 2 | March-April 20166 Wesley Tidings ISSUE 2 | March-April 2016

CHURCH RENOVATIONS

OUR SANCTUARY – HISTORY OF RENOVATIONS

As the rain pounded down on 18 December 19071, the cornerstone

of the new sanctuary of the church on Fort Canning Hill – which would be known as Wesley Methodist Church in 1911 – was laid by Sir John Anderson, the Governor of the Straits Settlements. On Christmas morning the next year, after the church building

and manse were finally completed, the church held its first service in the “airy, copious sanctuary lit through muted stained glass windows”2.

And this sanctuary, would over the years, see various restoration and upgrading works, from the introduction of electric fans and lights in February 19123, restoration works after the War to the latest upgrading project in the second half of 2015. Notably, the more major works were carried out in 1977-1989 which saw the addition of a new wing (Baptismal Hall), the doubling of the sanctuary’s seating capacity and

the introduction of an air-conditioning system. A new four-storey office and educational block with a two-level car park was also built4. These works inevitably resulted in changes to the original form and design of the church.

2015 UPGRADINGPROJECTThe latest upgrading and repair works of the sanctuary in the second half of 2015 too aimed to address some debilitation problems. These ranged

Wesley Sanctuary Upgrading Project • May to December 2015

7archives

from building issues – like the aging of overhead fixtures, the cracked marble flooring, water seepage, plant growth on the building façade – to mechanical and electrical issues, mainly those of the air-conditioning, electrical wiring and the audio-video system which have reached the end of their normal life span. The replacement of these systems in turn necessitated the replacement of the ceiling which was also redesigned to incorporate TV screens and better lighting.

Some of the areas which have been enhanced include the altar area and communion rails to improve the human circulation flow as well as increase the serving capacity per communion round. The interior space has also been realigned to improve the visibility of the altar area, and provide a more open and welcoming feel to the church. In addition, a big screen has been installed and the TV monitors, relocated so that the congregation has better visual access.

The choir stalls have been lowered and re-aligned. The organ and piano have been relocated to be closer to the choir. The audio-visual system, the oldest of such systems in the church, has also

been replaced. (See pictorial story for more details on the upgrading works.)

THE OLD AND NEW In the wake of these works and marked changes, what is not lost on Wesleyans is the attempt to preserve and restore the historical elements of the sanctuary. Indeed, a paramount consideration behind the upgrading project was to attain a harmonised integration of the sanctuary’s original architectural elements with current needs and usage.

The celebration of the old is perhaps most evident in the restoration of the original neo-Gothic cruciform design as the main focal point of the sanctuary. To enhance the texture and warmth of the space of the original cruciform, materials like wooden strips for the flooring and textured wall paint were used. This is in contrast to the newer parts of the church which have been differentiated by contemporary clean, white finishes and solid wood, with details of scalloping surfaces bathed in light. Notably, the restoration of the cruciform also involved the realigning of the central axis of the sanctuary with a new main entrance, which faces the altar – just like the original old entrance. And with these, the act of entering the sanctuary is akin to walking straight in through the light towards the altar.

In addition, one of the most beautiful historical features of the church – the stained glass window which has hitherto been partially obstructed

by the high choir stalls is now given full visibility. Also, one of the most conspicuous changes – the lighter colour of the interior – was decided upon to throw into sharper contrast the historical character of the wood, arches and stained glass, and thus accentuate the remaining elements of the old sanctuary.

The renovation works were completed on schedule in December 2015. What joy then it was that the doors of the sanctuary – whose walls continue to whisper timeless traditions in the midst of a brighter new space – were opened just in time for the Christmas Service on 25 December 2015 as Wesleyans gather to celebrate the birth of our King … just like the congregation on that first Christmas morning in 1908.

Julie Ee and Lyn Sayers

1 Wong, L. (1985). By My Spirit. Singapore: Wesley Methodist Church, p20.2 ibid, p203 ibid, p714 ibid, p59

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THEN NOWALTAR AREA

THEN NOWMAIN ENTRANCE

n The original entrance facing the altar was re-sited during the renovation works in 1979 when the Sanctuary main transept was extended.

n The original facing of the main entrance has been reinstated and allows for a straight clear passage right up to the church altar. This is also consistent with the historical architectural style of churches where the main entrance faces the altar.

n In 1935, new communion rails replaced the old ones in memory of Mrs O.C Smalley, wife of the church treasurer then. The teak pulpit and and lectern were donated by Mr Harry Bailey. Notably, during the War, church furnishings were stripped and destroyed and only three items were recovered – the badly-damaged Hammond organ, the lectern and the marble baptismal fount. The stained glass windows behind the choir stalls, shipped from England 37 years earlier, were safe as they were removed and stored away before the fall of Singapore.

n The 1935 rails surrounding the altar have been expanded and reshaped to follow the footprint of the cruciform so as to allow more people at the communion table. The platform leading up to the altar and choir stalls have been lowered and the view of the stained glass is no longer obstructed. Built-in benches now replace the chairs in the pastor’s nook.


BEHIND THE RENOVATIONS Wesley Sanctuary Upgrading Project

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THEN NOWCEILING WITH TRUSSES AND HANGING LAMPS

THEN NOWWALL WITH PLAQUES AND WOODEN WINDOW

WITH STAINED GLASS PANELS

archives

n In 1911, two memorial tablets were erected in memory of Merrill G. Miller and Otto A. Carlson, both missionary teachers. This last original internal wall, with the two marble plaques and a wooden window with stained glass panels, has been removed to provide for an open feel and to increase the

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n While the ceiling has been painted and terraced to effect a lighter, modern and more inviting feel, the original trusses and hanging memorial lamps, which were donated in honour of various persons and dedicated on 4 November 1934, have been retained.

visibility of the altar area. Notably, the window frame will be installed as a display piece in the Archives Gallery and the marble plaques are now on the opposite wall.


THEN NOWWELCOME CORNER

THEN NOWBAPTISMAL HALL

Wesley Sanctuary Upgrading Project Wesley Tidings ISSUE 2 | March-April 2016

n The old Information Counter made way for a new Welcome Corner.


n After the renovation in the 1980s, the baptismal hall had low ceilings in a strong, red colour.

n The baptismal pool is still in its original place. But the ceiling has been raised and the dark red colour, replaced with a more neutral palette to give the hall a lighter and more open feel.

BEHIND THE RENOVATIONS Wesley Sanctuary Upgrading Project

11Wesley Sanctuary Upgrading Project archives

OVERALL LOOK – MATERIAL AND FINISH

ORIGINAL TILESn Interestingly, during the removal of the floor cladding near the choir stalls and pastor’s nook, some original tiles were discovered. While the actual age of the tiles cannot be ascertained, they are in keeping with those from the era of the church construction period. A few pieces of the tiles have been salvaged by Archives and made into a display motif which would be exhibited in the revamped Archives Heritage Gallery.


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communications

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stakeholder, or Paul, a rabbi in training. In the end, the centurion chose to listen to the voices of the ship pilot. As a result, they lost their way, their possessions, the control of the ship and hope (Acts 27:15). However, the lives of those on board were eventually preserved when they listened to Paul (Acts 27:21-26).

Pastor Shih Ming then pointed out that in our passage through life, we have to listen to the experts and stakeholders, but also to the voice of God. And when there is discordance among these voices, how do we decide who to listen to? Ultimately, the challenge is to hear God’s voice, which may be contrary to that of the experts and stakeholders.

Hence while Wesley has many experts on its team, and while we live in a society that highly values democracy or majority rule, Pastor Shih Ming stressed that, “We need to learn to hear God’s voice and clear any blocked ears. We need to tune the radio of our spiritual ears so as to hear the voice of God and follow it.”

After taking in this spiritual food for thought, the group then proceeded to lunch. The coming together of the various members who play different roles in the ministry was a special occasion, and it was indeed a time of warm and meaningful fellowship that afternoon.

Yong Ai Lei

communications

“You don’t have to be a spiritual giant to hear God’s voice, but learning to hear Him and knowing your Bible will

make it easier to discern His voice,” said Wesley’s Pastor-In-Charge, Rev Dr Kow Shih Ming.

He was speaking at the Wesley Communications Ministry’s dedication service which was followed by an appreciation lunch. This was attended by some 40 members which included the sermon note takers, collators, photographers, TIDINGS editorial team and staff.

Pastor Shih Ming reminded them that “While communications is about telling a story or message – whether through photography, TIDINGS articles or passed messages at the Information Counter – the communications team also needs to play the role of the receiver, to listen well in order to better tell God’s message.”

He then highlighted Paul’s experience in Acts 27. Due to Paul’s appeal to the emperor, he was sent on a journey to Cesarea, to be transported to Rome. The rough sea journey that followed is like how our journey through life can be fraught with unexpected danger and hazards.

On board the ship and faced with tumultuous weather, the centurion in charge had to decide whose advice he should heed – the ship pilot who was the technical expert, the ship owner, a

Listen Well, for God Always Speaks

12 March 2016

Wesley Communications Ministry Dedication Service and Volunteers’ Appreciation Lunch

PHOTO: JOHNNY KOH


A Tale of Tea Pickers

missions

In the 1880s, Tamil women from India were brought to Sri Lanka for the sole purpose of picking tea – a task which was labour

intensive. Tamil women labourers were brought in from India as they were perceived as docile. Their presence among male labourers would also ensure the continuation of generations of workers.

Indeed, presently, most tea pickers are descendants of these pioneer tea pickers – from generation to generation they and their families have been picking tea. Young girls would follow their mothers, grandmothers and older sisters to the plantations. In addition, they are expected to perform domestic duties.

These women are locked in poverty and are one of the most marginalised in their society. As most of their husbands are alcoholics, they bear the sole burden of supporting their families.

A typical day for them begins at 4am. They collect water, prepare the morning meal, get their children ready and bring

The workers live in what is called line rooms with outhouse toilet facilities. Often the rooms are without windows and there is little or no ventilation. As many as 6 to 10 members or more squeeze into an 8-foot by 10-foot room. The women and girls have no privacy and constantly face risks of harassment.

them to the crèche or school. They then make their way to the tea plantation, which can be up to five kilometres away, by 7.30am.

They work an eight-hour day and leave by 4.30pm. Before that, they have to join a long queue to weigh the leaves they pick. They earn up to US$5 per day for 15 kilogrammes of tea buds. They then return home by 5.30pm to prepare a simple evening meal of rice and curry, and hopefully get to bed by 10pm or 11pm.

Time Out with Tea PickersTo help women in the tea plantations, Wesley Methodist Church and *Ethnos Asia Ministries jointly conducted the very first Deborah Project Seminar in November last year. The project aimed to provide these women with spiritual empowerment through prayer, training and discipleship and they were taught

the “4Is”: identity in Christ, intimacy with God, inheritance and the influence of the believer. Local pastors, Pastor Layasing and Pastor Richard, helped to organise it while Wesley trippers participated by teaching as seminar instructors, praying, and ministering to the women. About 30 women attended the three-day seminar. They ranged from grandmothers to mothers who came with their children and included students and teachers from the schools within the estate.

The seminar opened with a teaching session on the Father Heart of God and His lavish, intimate love for all who have been adopted into His family by the blood of Christ. Prayer intercessors from Wesley reminded the women that they were important and precious; and this moved

and greatly encouraged them.

November 2015Deborah Project Seminar

*Ethnos Asia Ministries is committed to strengthening & serving the Body of Christ in access-restricted nations in Asia.

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PHOTOS: DR LIU WOON YI AND YUE YIN WAH

Other workshop topics included intimacy, inheritance, identity, influence and women in the Bible. The sessions were peppered with personal testimonies by the mission trippers.

The next afternoon, a tripper, Velda Tan, led the women in worship through dance. She also conducted a make-up session for them. They were each presented a goodie bag containing a hair clip, lipstick and powder puff which were sponsored. The women excitedly applied make-up on themselves and on each other. After that, our photographers took pictures of each one of them.

The seminar closed with a teaching on “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world. This is He who baptises with the Holy Spirit.” During the altar call, half of the women ran up to the front to be prayed for. Many were visibly touched and came forward to share how they had been so encouraged, strengthened and blessed.

Our parting gift was a printed photograph presented to each one. For many, it was their first.

Praise God for the good health, strength and stamina of the team and their gifts and talents that were used for His glory. It was a most wonderful experience ministering to and sharing God’s love with these women.

Pray for Sri LankaGod is working in miraculous ways in Sri Lanka where the field is ripe for harvest. The team continues to pray for the women of Sri Lanka and Pastor Layasing’s ministry. Their church building construction project has stalled due to opposition from certain parties. Hence, do pray for the protection of Pastor Layasing and the congregation, that they will have no fear in their hearts and that the people will sense God’s presence in their lives and give glory to Him.

The next time you sip tea, especially tea from Sri Lanka, give a little thought to the women tea pickers and the church in Sri Lanka – say a prayer for them.

Rebecca Zaccheus

Velda Tan, one of the mission trippers, teaching the women to dance.

Praying for the women.

Some of the women who attended the conference with Wesley mission trippers and local pastors,Pastor Layasing (far left, kneeling) and Pastor Richard (far right, kneeling).

It’s make-up time.

Queuing for portrait shots, a first for some.


Principles for Engaging the Chinese CultureA Talk by Canon Daniel Tong • 1 March 2016 • Level 3 Hall

PHOTOS: DANIEL BOEN

wscs Women’s Society of Christian Service

Our Chinese culture and heritage is rich. But does engaging in our Chinese culture contravene the teaching of God’s

Word? Can faithful Christians embrace their culture and heritage which is so closely intertwined with religious beliefs? How can we be good Christians who keep our culture and heritage alive in ways that honour our God?

We are thankful to Canon Daniel Tong who, during one of our weekly Tuesday fellowship meetings, shed light on the principles for engaging our culture.

The four principles he highlighted are: Origin: fact or fiction,Content and Connotation, Symbolism vs Superstition and Proclamation vs Practice.

He first elaborated on the myth surrounding the celebration of Chun Jie ( Chinese New Year). This myth tells of the existence of an evil beast named Nian (year). It would wake up once a year after a long period of hibernation to devour human beings.

The fearful villagers who later discovered it was afraid of bright lights, loud noise and the colour red, decorated their homes with red banners and scrolls, and released firecrackers to ward it off. This is supposedly how the celebration of Chinese New Year started.

However, according to Canon Tong, it is purely a myth as the real origin of Chun Jie is the celebration of Spring. Winter in China was (and still is) bitterly cold, dark and long and when Spring finally came, it called for a great celebration. It was celebration of a new life. With the Chinese diaspora all over the world, we celebrate our ethnicity when we celebrate Chun Jie.

Hence, we Christians should celebrate festivals with an understanding of their historical significance instead of believing in their mythology.

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taking good care of our guests. As for visiting our relatives and friends, it is a good opportunity for reconciliation.

Although Christians do not believe that black symbolises misfortune, we must always be respectful of our friends and relatives who may believe so. Mandarin oranges are fresh fruits of Spring and giving oranges is symbolic of wishing someone prosperity. Biblically, it is not wrong to wish someone prosperity but we should not encourage the pursuit of materialism. A good wish from Christians is Xing Nian You Yu which might be interpreted by Christians as be fishers of men. Teach children to be thankful regardless of the amount in the hong baos (red packet) they receive.

Canon Tong wrapped up his talk with the following golden rules for abstinence:

1. Ephesians 4:17-22 We are instructed to be renewed in the spirit of our minds

and put on the new nature created after the likeness of God in true righteousness and holiness. Our old mindset including our former habits and beliefs has to be sorted out; and a Christian perspective – without fear being the primary reason for our actions – is to be adopted. By being fearful, we convey the belief that the devil is greater than God.

2. 1 Corinthians 10:14-22 We cannot engage in rites and rituals associated with the

worship of idols for we only worship our one true God.

3. 1 Corinthians 8:7-13 We ought to die to self and care for our brethren. It may

require us to give up our personal rights to avoid stumbling a weaker Christian.

4. Exodus 20:2-6 Our God is a jealous God and we worship and honour only

Him in our lives and homes.

Christians need to put their culture through a sieve. We must honour our Lord as we embrace the rich Chinese heritage and culture. Between cultural heritage and God, our Lord must be given pre-eminence.

Tan Siang Hoon

Principles for Engaging the Chinese Culture We also have to look at what these practices connote. Are the connotations symbolic or superstitious? Symbolism is unavoidable and is fine if it does not slip into superstition. For example, wearing a cross to identify with Jesus Christ is acceptable but the fear of disaster if one forgets to wear it makes it an idol. In addition, Christians must be mindful of behaving in such a way that what we do does not contradict what we say.

As Chun Jie is widely celebrated among the Chinese, Canon Tong further delved into this festival to give us a Christian perspective of Chinese traditions.

Weeks before Chun Jie, we spring clean our homes for a practical reason – to ensure a clean and neat home to welcome our guests. We must not be trapped in the superstitious beliefs of cleaning our homes to rid of bad luck or not sweeping the floor during the festive season so as not to sweep away good fortune in the new year. Also, some Chinese serve Nian Gao (a sweet sticky cake) to the Kitchen god hoping that he would submit a commendable report of our behaviour to heaven. However, our God is omnipresent and He will surely bless us if we obey Him. Christians must also never offer food at the altars as we worship only our God.

The word Fu is often seen hanging upside down to mean blessings have arrived. This is being overtly superstitious.

Acceptable decorations are couplets with well wishes and pussy willows which are perceived as symbols of Spring and not longevity.

With regard to the reunion dinner on the eve of the New Year, it is superstition to adhere to the belief that we should serve bountiful food with

much left-over to ensure abundance in the coming year. We look to God as our source of abundant blessings. The primary reason for serving an elaborate meal should be hospitality –


Finding True Love

mandarin ministry

Truly, we worship and serve an amazing God!On 24 January 2016, the much anticipated annual Lunar

New Year Evangelistic Outreach was held in our church at Wesley Hall. During the preparation stage, we could already see how God had inspired His people at Wesley – both the Mandarin and English congregations – to partner with Him and one another. On the day of the event, the three invited speakers, the Mandarin Ministry AV team, counsellors, hospitality team, intercessors and worship team were well-prepared and with a joyful heart, were looking forward to serving together with the pastor and leaders.

God showed His faithfulness and power in working out His plans. We didn’t see the expected crowd at 2.10pm. However, at 2.25pm, just five minutes before the start of the event, many of our church members and worshippers had arrived with their pre-believing loved ones and friends.

After the opening words of welcome, the worship team led by Ms Jasmine Lye began the event with a series of praise and action songs. The worship not only filled the hall with a celebrative spirit, it also prepared and opened the hearts of the people for God’s message.

The very talented local singer and song composer Ms Liza Foong was the first to share her life testimony. God had helped her to overcome the trauma of the sudden demise of her husband who operated a music studio and composed gospel songs. She spoke of how God had not only provided her the strength to carry on, but also gave her the wisdom and inspiration to compose more gospel songs to praise and worship Him. Liza’s touching testimony brought tears to the eyes of many. She then blessed the congregation by singing two Chinese New Year gospel celebration songs which she had composed.

Ms Sharon Chan, a local recording artiste who performed on TV and in overseas concerts then testified that she became addicted to smoking and drinking when she was living the limelight, and it was God who delivered her from her addiction. And at the lowest point in her life – when she was cheated of her money and became penniless – a Christian lady brought

her to church and she accepted the Lord Jesus as her personal Saviour and Lord. Later, God strengthened her faith by delivering her from the evil spirits that were harassing her.

Our third guest speaker Pastor Lee Beng Hoon then captured the attention of all with her ‘love story’, the theme of this year’s

Lunar New Year Evangelistic Outreach

Speaker: Pastor Lee Beng Hoon • 24 January 2016, 2.30pm • Wesley Hall

(L-R, front row) Pastor Lee Beng Hoon, Liza Foong and Sharon Chan.

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outreach being “Finding True Love”, Pastor Beng Hoon shared how God confirmed that the man whom she was dating was not God-sent. Her light-hearted account drew much laughter from the congregation. She then went on to testify about how God healed her completely of breast and lung cancer. She also shared that on one occasion, she was scalded when she poured water into her overheated car radiator. The steamy water gushed out from it and splashed onto her face. Thankfully, the pair of glasses she wore served as protective goggles. However, her nose and philtrum were badly scalded. The doctor who treated her was relieved when Pastor Beng Hoon was able to breathe and open her mouth normally – her nose lining and philtrum were not damaged after all. Also, she could have been blinded and even disfigured if not for God’s divine protection over her.

We were awed to see the manifestations of God’s glory, faithfulness and power, and His wondrous love and care over His children through the testimonies of our three guest speakers. Many present were attentive and deeply moved during the entire service. When the altar call was given towards the end of the meeting, 13 persons came forward and three persons accepted Jesus as their personal Saviour. Some also expressed their desire to know more about Jesus and the Christian faith, and had received follow-up.

It was indeed a Spirit-led and Spirit-filled outreach where many present were touched by God’s amazing love. So once again, we ascribe all glory and praise to our Almighty God!

Josephine Lim and Rev Michael Tan

More photos at www.wesleymc.org - Life@Wesley!

PHOTOS: JOHNNY KOH


cosc Christian Outreach & Social Concerns

Tucked away in a corner near the Rochor Canal is an HDB rental block that houses the Wesley Seniors Activity Centre

(WSAC). This centre was set up by Wesley Methodist Church in partnership with the Methodist Welfare Services (MWS) and has been operational since November 2010.

It is a centre under Wesley’s Christian Outreach & Social Concerns Elderly Ministry. It was set up to answer a call to love and care for the elderly living in these rental blocks so that they would not be socially isolated. WSAC staff have tried to support their needs where possible, for example, helping them read letters and writing referrals for assistance.

Volunteer PowerRight from the start, WSAC has been supported by volunteers with a heart for the elderly. Many are from the Wesley Befrienders to Older Persons (WBOP). However, over time, more church members have come to know about the work at WSAC and come forward to serve too. Notably, till today, most volunteers who began in 2011 continue to serve on a weekly basis. And as Willy Ho, Senior Executive, Programmes, who works closely with the volunteers says, “The centre is now five years old. It has become what it is today because of the support of the elderly who now call it their second home. But certainly, if we did not have the volunteers from Wesley Methodist Church supporting us, the centre would not have grown so quickly. The elderly really appreciate the volunteers who serve weekly.”

Currently there are more than 30 volunteers who serve regularly, Twenty of whom are from Wesley Methodist Church. Some serve at the leadership and committee level in its Centre Governance Committee while most serve at the centre. They help motivate the elderly to keep fit and stay healthy by assisting them during exercise sessions; they also help to serve morning tea and wash up after. Others make home visits and bring the elderly on outings.

A place to serve, a place to grow in Christ-loveWesley Seniors Activity Centre

What some volunteers have to sayDorothy Wong has been serving at WSAC since early 2011. Together with its staff and another volunteer, Ng Poh Gee, she makes home visits to the rental flats. During these visits, she finds out whether the elderly are coping well living alone and whether they need help. She says, “I am very happy serving the seniors at WSAC and feel that I am very much ministered to by the many friends I make there, including the full-time staff. It makes my time and service there very meaningful. I continue to come weekly as the seniors have grown to accept and trust me enough to sometimes pour out their concerns to me. Their acceptance of me as a friend is a reward in itself. I am grateful to the Lord for this opportunity to serve Him at

WSAC. My wish is that we would continue to earn the trust of the seniors and more importantly, that the way with which we conduct ourselves when serving them would open their hearts to receiving the gospel. One soul earned for Christ is one soul gained.”

Like Dorothy, Stella Lee and Christine Chia, the “Thursday Ladies” at WSAC, have also served for about five years. Stella has always been drawn to older persons and is also a caregiver for various family members in her extended family. Every Thursday morning, she comes to the centre and helps the seniors during their exercise workout. “The seniors,” she quips, “are my weekly vitamin shot!”

(L-R) Mrs Dorothy Wong and Mdm Ng Poh Gee.

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We pray that you too would consider spending some time sharing God’s love with the elderly at WSAC. To find out more about volunteering, contact us at [email protected] or call 6298 0194/0195. We look forward to seeing you. We have really good coffee … the old fashioned kind!

Kwok Sian YeeSupervisor, COSC Elderly Ministry

As for Christine, she came to know about WSAC through another volunteer. Thursday is “Eggs Day” and she enjoys preparing and serving perfect soft-boiled eggs together with bread and coffee for the seniors. Christine is also a gifted baker and the seniors have been blessed by her muffins and banana cakes. She prays that the time she spends serving the elderly is a time when they would see the love of Christ. Despite being “Thursday Ladies”, she and Stella also help out at outings as well as events on Saturdays, like birthday celebrations.

Stephanie and Richard Tang have been attending Wesley for many years. In November last year, they both signed up for a talk organised by the Elderly Ministry titled “The Changing Landscape of the Ageing Population in Singapore”. There, they found new friends and began to explore a few volunteer opportunities in the Elderly Ministry, finally finding their way to WSAC. The couple go to the centre on Tuesday mornings to help a group of frail seniors during a community exercise programme. Both are newly retired and when asked how serving at WSAC has been, Stephanie replies, “Humbling – when we see how active, alert and independent the seniors are at the centre!” They have shared their experience at WSAC with their friends in the hope of sparking their interest to help out too.

A place to serve, a place to grow in Christ-love

Carol Chan is with Small Group (SG) GLOW. She came to know about WSAC when their SG supported WSAC’s Christmas Celebration at the end of November 2015. They had such a wonderful experience with the seniors that she decided to spend some time on Fridays to help them during their community exercise programme. “I love the seniors whom I see every week – they are so zealous about life and about keeping a healthy mind and body. The time I spend with them is truly fulfilling!”

Ms Carol Chan exercising with the seniors in the TTSH Community Health Exercise Programme, "Step-It-Out."

Mr and Mrs Richard Tang helping on Tuesday mornings during exercise and morning tea.

(L-R, standing) Mrs Stella Lee and Mdm Christine Chia serving morning tea at WSAC.


Growth and Interaction A Church Response to Crises and Disasters

Hearing Impaired Awareness Crisis Relief Wesley

In the next few issues of TIDINGS, you’ll learn more about the efforts of the Ministry of The

Hearing Impaired (MHI) in reaching out to the deaf community in Singapore and the learning experiences of its volunteers. We begin with an interview with one of our volunteers, Leonard Au who serves in MHI as a committee member and in various areas of ministry such as overseas (Cambodia) and local outreach to the deaf.

“Why did you start volunteering at the Ministry of The Hearing Impaired?”I’ve always felt the warmth and love of the MHI community which consists of both the hearing impaired and the hearing. It’s been a blessing to see how God uses each and every one with their different abilities and talents. The MHI volunteers and staff share the common goal of serving people, to glorify God and are very welcoming, always ready to accept people for who they are.

“How was your experience during the MHI outing at Coney Island?”Initially, it was a steep learning curve trying to interact with the hearing impaired. But I have come to realise that they are not that different. I have also learnt that it is vital to clarify doubts when communicating.

In addition, I saw the interaction between members of the hearing impaired community. They showed care and concern to everyone regardless of age, gender or religion. The group also showed great hospitality to the guests that afternoon. I have come to realise that there are many ways to show the love of Christ to people, but what is most important is being genuine and sincere. We can show our care in even the smallest things, for example, when someone is feeling left out, we can try to befriend or include them.

I feel that I have been called by God to serve in this community and ministry, and He has equipped and supported me all the way. MHI has strived to help the hearing impaired and its hearing members in various ways such as personal and spiritual development, emotional and spiritual support. More importantly, it feels like one big family and thus has powerful outreach potential. I’ve witnessed the effort everyone has put in to make our meetings more than a routine Sunday affair. I pray that MHI, together with the other outreach efforts of Wesley, will continue to grow in God’s favour and fulfill His purpose for them.

Leonard Au, Committee member, MHI

cosc Christian Outreach & Social Concerns

Crisis Relief Wesley (CRW) has been actively sharing God’s love with the survivors of natural disasters in

the region by praying for them and bringing relief aid such as food, medicines, shelter and educational kits. Over the years, CRW also conducted Crisis Response Training (CRT) both locally and overseas – mainly in Philippines and India – to equip the churches there to respond to the disasters.

This year, a four-member team from the CRW Committee conducted the CRT at Kohima, Nagaland, North East India. Pastor Nathanael Basumatary, who had organised previous training sessions in Guwahati and Shillong, and Pastor Eltish M Sangma were our hosts. The training was conducted at Kohima AO Baptist Church Jubilee Memorial Centre. A total of 33 delegates attended the training; of these, nine were Wesley’s Missions Ministry contacts.

Our training was titled “A Church Response to Crises and Disasters”. The topics we taught covered broadly the whys and the hows of crisis response. They ranged from “The Biblical Perspective of Crises and Disasters”, “Why the Church should Respond” to “Needs Assessment,”, “Planning”, “Budgeting” and “Psychosocial Care in Crises and Disasters”. Activities which encouraged participation and interaction like class teaching, role playing, presentations and sharing of experiences were held.

The training centre was well-equipped but was very cold as it has marble flooring and concrete walls. We

Training in Nagaland, North East India • 26-28 January 2016

A time of worship led by the youth ministry team before the training session.

Presentation of crisis response plan by group members.

The term ‘deaf’ to describe persons who have a physical condition of hearing loss of varying degrees is widely accepted amongst them. And while the term “hearing impaired” is perceived as more polite and politically correct, it is actually not so. The word “impaired” means damaged and thus has a negative connotation. Confused

about which term you should use? You can always ask the deaf person you’re interacting with as to which he or she prefers!

Did You

Know?

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Wesley TIDINGS is published bi-monthly by Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore for internal circulation to members of the Church | Views expressed in the Wesley TIDINGS are the contributors’ and do not necessarily reflect that of the Church or the Editorial Board. | Materials in the Wesley TIDINGS may be reproduced with permission from Wesley Methodist Church or the authors. | Unless stated otherwise, all scripture quotations are taken from THE HOLY BIBLE, NEW INTERNATIONAL VERSION®, NIV® Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.® Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide.

Contributions and enquiries are to be addressed to: The Editor, Wesley TIDINGS, 5 Fort Canning Road, Singapore 179493

The Editor reserves the right to make changes to the contributions if necessary.

Printed by Man Cheong Printing Pte Ltd

Pastor-In-ChargeRev Dr Kow Shih Ming

EditorPeggie Chan

Editorial TeamJulie EeKevyn LaiCatherine LimOng Joo HiangTan Kee CheongTham Soo Hian

ContributorsRev Dr Kow Shih Ming, Lucas Chow, Lyn Sayers, Yong Ai Lei, Rebecca Zaccheus, Tan Siang Hoon, Josephine Lim, Rev Michael Tan, Kwok Sian Yee, Leonard Au and Lee Siew Cheng.

Photo ContributorsJohnny Koh, Dr Liu Woon Yi, Yue Yin Wah and

Daniel Boen.

T I D I N G SThe Magazine of Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore

Wesley TIDINGS is available at www.wesleymc.org/Tidings

transitions

Marriages

CONDOLENCESto the family & loved ones

of those who were called home.

Deaths

MARCH 2016 19 Mr Bai Zhiguang and Miss Tay Ming Yin, Shara

19 Mr Chong Yi-Hao Clayton and Miss Lim An, Lydia 19 Mr Teoh Kar Meng and Dr Tan Shi Rui, Victoria

FEBRUARY 2016 01 Emmanuelle Yang Rui En

Daughter of Mr & Mrs Timothy Yang Chi Sern

MARCH 2016 06 Elizabeth Ho Jing En

Daughter of Mr & Mrs Marcus Ho Kah Fai

Births

Training in Nagaland, North East India • 26-28 January 2016

thank God for sunshine when we decided to conduct one of the lessons outdoor. The participants enjoyed the sessions. They were especially moved by the photographs and stories of our relief operations – they felt as if they were transported to the scenes of the disasters. At the end of the training, each participant was presented with a Certificate of Attendance.

We thank God for sustaining us and giving us strength throughout the training. We are also thankful for the prayer support and encouragement from the Christian Outreach and Social Concerns leaders and staff, and our CRW volunteers and prayer partners.

Lee Siew ChengVolunteer and Trainer, CRW

Lee Siew Cheng, CRT Trainer, conducting an outdoor training session.

CRT Nagaland class participants and trainers.

FEBRUARY 2016 01 Mr Yong Kah Siong06 Mr Loh Cher Kwang08 Mr Teh Thein Phoi

MARCH 2016 05 Mdm Wee Huat Neo 06 Mr Lim Yew Swee

06 Mdm Koh Quee Hiang 11 Mr William Wong Teck Lien

13 Mdm Kwan Ooi Khuan 18 Mdm Neo Cen Fau

20 Mr G D Balakrishnan 23 Mr Tan Hoon Meng

25 Mdm Carol Lee Ngan Seong26 Mr Aw Kian Chow

30 Mdm Chia Bok Hong30 Mr Willie Loh Kum Yong

30 Mr Mah Beng Guan


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Documents

Wesley Tidings Newsletter Issue 02 2016