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THE MAGAZINE OF FAITH METHODIST CHURCH | APRIL 2021
MCI (P) 046/02/2021
07 16 40
SPOTLIGHT ON OUR CONVERSATIONS@ TRUSTING GOD IN
NEW PASTORS! FAITH TOUGH TIMES
Rev Reuben Ng & Rev Chan Mei Ming Dealing With Mental Health Experiencing God’s Goodness
Hope Arise
36
14
CONTENTS
THE MAGAZINE OF FAITH METHODIST CHURCH
APRIL 2021
01 Editor’s Note
02 Pastor’s Letter
04
DEEPER IN CHRIST
Private & Public Worship (Part 2):
24
Sacred Meeting for the Sacrament
31
SPECIAL FEATURE
07 Rev Reuben Ng: Imitating Christ In Love
10 Getting To Know Rev Chan Mei Ming
HEARTBEAT
14 One Mission Small Group Conference
16 Conversations@Faith: Mental Health
20 The Importance Of Fatherhood
22 The World Needs A Father Deep Dive 48
Series: Overcoming Porn
24 Everlasting Blessings and Peace EDITORIAL
28 Serving with Love
Pastor-in-Charge Writers / Contributors
31 A Different Christmas Celebration Rev Reuben Ng Ara Teo Jimaia Wong
35 Bringing CNY Cheer to our Mission Workers Brenda Tang John Woon
Editors Claire Yeh Khoo Tse Horng
36 SUN JAM Playshop Esther Ong Lionel Lau
Glynisia Yeo
38 A Father’s Heart’s Cry Audrey Mok Godiva Ysip Mark Tan
Janice Lim Monica Tan
40 Trusting God In Tough Times Janice Ong Stella Seah
Sub-Editor
42 Regathering For Worship Rachel Tham
43 Back to Worshipping Onsite and Listening Photographers
Althea Chan Jonathan Lau
to the Word of God Contributing Pastors
Jimmy Png Leong Kwok Seng
Rev Eddie Ho
Joash Lee Richmond Tan
PEOPLE OF FAITH
45 KidsLEAP Children’s Programme
For contributions, please send them to
faithlink@faithmc.sg.
SPOTTED AT FAITH
48 First Hybrid 11.15am Service
50 Small Group Leaders’ Dedication Service Faithlink is published three times a year by Faith Methodist Church
51 Corporate House of Prayer (Singapore) for internal circulation to the congregation of Faith Methodist
Church and their friends. Views expressed in Faithlink are the contributors’
52 TRAC Seniors Ministry and do not necessarily reflect those of the Church and the Editorial Board.
53 Night of Worship Copyright © 2021 by Faith Methodist Church
All right reserved. This magazine or any portion thereof may not be
MARKETPLACE reproduced or used in any manner whatsoever without the express
54 Impacting Lives Beyond The Classroom written permission of the publisher except for the use of brief
quotations in a book review.
EDITOR’S NOTE 1
LOVE = GOING
THE EXTRA MILE
W
hen was the last time you went the extra mile for someone?
In his book The First Mile, author Derek Prince wrote that in the context
of Matthew 5:41, “Jesus here depicts a situation in which law, or social
custom, gives a man the right to compel another to walk a mile together
with him.” Jesus then challenged His disciples to not just walk the first mile
but to go on with the second mile.
The author then explains, “We may say that the first mile represents duty, the extra mile represents
love. Love freely does twice as much as duty can demand.”
In this hectic society we live in, many decisions are centred around self-serving causes, in order
to benefit the self. This is why we often find it heartwarming to read of a Good Samaritan or an
individual who went out of his or her way to help another human being; and who went the extra
mile for someone else, even a total stranger.
When love becomes the compass of our lives, it will influence our decisions in a way that
brings positive change around us. Likewise, God demonstrated His love for us by
sending His only begotten Son, Jesus Christ, to earth (John 3:16). That one act of
redemption changed the course of humanity and paved the way for mankind to
be reconciled back to God!
Today as we commemorate Resurrection Sunday and remember this
Great Love from heaven, will you now go the extra mile for someone
and love them with the love of Christ?
In Christ,
Glynisia Yeo
Editor
@FaithMethodistChurch @faithmcsg FaithMC News faithmcsg
2 PASTOR’S LETTER 3
Once we jump into such waters, what looks to be a
nice easy swim in still gentle waters, can very quickly
UNDERCURRENTS become an intense struggle against currents that
forcibly pull and drag us into danger.
I recently came across an
article by Channel News
Asia (CNA). It focused on the can appreciate the danger of to flow. When viewed from tenderhearted. In so doing,
dangers of swimming in the undercurrents. Once we jump the surface, everything might we practice the biblical call
open sea. If you’re wondering into such waters, what looks look “gentle” or even “still”. to “be kind to one another” in
why CNA would focus on a to be a nice easy swim in still But it is just an appearance; a very practical way.
topic better suited to training gentle waters, can very quickly what is underneath is a totally
material found in a sea sports become an intense struggle different thing. But why can’t we just live
club, it was written in view of against currents that forcibly with the appearance of
an unfortunate incident that pull and drag us into danger. I do not believe we, as “stillness” while nursing the
occurred in 2020 — the sad Christians, are called to live undercurrents? Because
drowning of a boy off Undercurrents. with undercurrents. If so, that is not what God did
Changi Beach. God would not have placed with us. He dealt with the
They may not look dangerous, in Scripture, verses like, “undercurrents” we had
Among other things but they certainly can be… “And be kind to one another, with Him when He forgave
mentioned in the article, which brought me to reflect tenderhearted, forgiving us. And now, He calls us
one potential danger raised further on “undercurrents” in one another, even as God in to do likewise, so that the
that swimmers ought to be terms of relationships. Christ forgave you,” gentleness and stillness are
wary of, are undercurrents. (Eph. 4:32, NKJV). This verse not just on the surface, but
And what exactly are Whether husband and wife, seems to tell us not to live also underneath in our hearts.
undercurrents? Doing some child and parent, fellow work with the appearance that
mini research revealed to colleagues, siblings or even all is “gentle” and “still”, May we as followers of
me that they are currents of between church members/ but to deal with the Christ be people who do not
water that flow under the worshippers, there are undercurrents itself. live with the danger
surface of another larger times when undercurrents of undercurrents.
body of water. exist. Perhaps it was a past How do we do that? By
action or deed, a careless releasing the cause of Shalom!
What is interesting is that word spoken, a difference in those strong “emotional
while the undercurrent may opinions that brought about currents”, forgiving one
be intense and strong, the disagreements, etc. another so that the currents
surface of the water will have no reason to exist.
more likely than not, be still Whatever it may have been, It is certainly not by being
or have only small gentle it caused some strong, hardhearted and stubborn Rev Reuben Ng
waves. By now, I am sure we intense emotional “currents” about it but by being Pastor-in-Charge
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . JANUARY 2021
4 DEEPER IN CHRIST 5
PRIVATE & PUBLIC WORSHIP (PART 2):
SACRED MEETING
Holy Communion is an outward sign of
God’s inward grace to us. But it is a sign, no
FOR THE SACRAMENT
matter how sacred, so we ought not make
it more than what it is.
By Rev Eddie Ho
In my previous Faithlink These channels are called in Corinth met regularly for (which Roman Catholics call Hence, some congregations
article (Jan 2021), I shared “means of grace,” and there the purpose of Communion “Transubstantiation”). in their circuit might be
three apparent reasons why are many types and forms of (1 Corinthians 11:18). served Holy Communion
public worship is important: means. It can be as simple Secondly, while Holy only once a month, or every
(i) worship is not about you; as the meals we are provided Not More than it is Communion may be two months, and others
(ii) worship is about God and with and therefore we say a sacrament, it is not a maybe three to four times
His Church; and (iii) we ought “grace” with every meal; or Holy Communion is a sign mandatory commandment a year. The parishioners
to yearn for public worship the Word that we read (“for of the presence of Christ but an exhortation. It is were on a communion fast
working towards the ultimate man shall not live on bread among the people of God a means (of grace) to until they could partake it;
worship in eternity. That alone,” Matthew 4:4); or and their unity in Him. When strengthen our faith, not an but when they could, they
is why not only is physical the preaching that we listen we partake the wine or end in itself. So, if situation communed together.
public worship irreplaceable; to (“for faith comes from juice (blood), we remember demands it – such as during
it is a sacred meeting to look hearing,” Romans 10:17). Jesus as the giver of new a pandemic where minimal This practice has stuck
forward to. Life and the New Covenant. physical contact is called for with us and that is why in
And among the many means When we partake the to reduce the community pre-COVID days, most (not
In this article, I would like to of grace at God’s disposal to bread or wafer (body), we spread of the virus – it all) Methodist churches
talk about the sacramental bless us, there are two which are reminded we are all one is alright and our social celebrated the Eucharist once
reason why we gather are personally ordained and Body with Him and with responsibility to fast from the a month.
physically and regularly to instituted by Jesus Himself: one another (1 Corinthians Lord’s Supper.
worship and partake Holy Water Baptism and Holy 10.16-18). Not Lesser than it
Communion together as Communion, also known In fact, fasting from Holy Should Be
a congregation, whenever as the Lord’s Supper and Holy Communion is an Communion is not a new
public health conditions allow. the Eucharist. We call outward sign of God’s thing, it had been observed Even so, we must
them Sacraments. inward grace to us. But it is a and practiced throughout the also not make Holy
What is a Sacrament? sign, no matter how sacred, history of the church. One Communion lesser than
Baptism is a sacrament so we ought not make example in the history of what it is, which is a
Our God is a God of we do only once in our it more than what it is. Methodism was in the 1700s tendency of modern
grace. This means that He life time, while Holy when pastors looked after people like us. The Church
blesses us with gifts we do Communion is a sacrament Firstly, because it is our faith several parishes in different in Corinth faced the same
not deserve (“unmerited we partake as often as we in Jesus Christ that saves places and were on a circuit problem and thus Paul in
favour”). How do we receive can. Although there is no us, not the act of eating His travelling around the country 1 Corinthians 11 instructs
His gifts of blessing? We biblical requirement, we body and drinking His blood. throughout the year. This us to treat it seriously –
receive them via channels know the Early Church took Besides, the bread and the means that these pastors that is, not to do it as if
(or vehicles) that deliver His it frequently (Acts 2:42-48), wine are not the actual could not be in every church we were consuming our
grace or gift to us. and specifically the Church body and blood of Jesus on every Sunday. own meals separately in
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 2021
6 DEEPER IN CHRIST DEEPER IN CHRIST: SPECIAL FEATURE 7
REV REUBEN NG:
IMITATING
CHRIST IN LOVE
In November 2020, the Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC)
appointed Rev Reuben Ng as Pastor-in-Charge of Faith.
Faithlink chats with our new PIC and discovered more
about his life and the motivation behind his values.
By Lionel Lau
If our Worship Service is like a dress
rehearsal of the Ultimate Worship, then
Holy Communion is like the “appetizer”
of the Great Banquet. Who is Reverend
But an inner transformation
Reuben Ng? took place one day in
primary school. During the
our own homes, but to wait consecrates the elements is like a dress rehearsal of A pastor who is in Religious Emphasis Week,
for each other and partake at the table as if it is one the Ultimate Worship, then
it together as a community. loaf and one cup (which Holy Communion is like the world, but not he watched a skit that
have since been modified portrayed the crucifixion of
the “appetizer” of the
If you like, you may see the to two-in-one packs due to Great Banquet.
of the world. Christ and the scene opened
his heart to the reality of
Lord’s Supper like a “reunion personal hygiene and public A pastor who is God’s love and sacrifice in a
dinner” where every member health reasons). The two-in- When we gather together for
of the family waits for each one pack is distributed to the the Lord’s Supper, we look clear about goal profound way.
other to fellowship with
one another over the table.
congregation, who then eat
the bread from the batch of
forward with expectation
and eager anticipation
setting, yet has That personal encounter
became a defining moment
It would not be a “reunion” “one loaf”, and drink from the to the Great Banquet on the heart of a which has left an indelible
per se if everyone were to “one cup” together because Resurrection Day, where
take it on their own over a we are one Body. we will finally and wholly be shepherd. mark on his life to this day.
played video on screen or united with our Lord Jesus
not physically present. The A Rehearsal for Christ, eating and drinking Born to Methodist parents, The Call
Patriarch or the Matriarch of with him and communing Rev Reuben Ng was baptised
the Ultimate in Paya Lebar Methodist Pastor Reuben’s journey into
the family would not exactly with one another in the
Church. He grew up in Toa full-time ministry reflected
be satisfied, would they? Brothers and sisters in Father’s kingdom (Matthew
Payoh Methodist Church a sense of responsibility for
Christ, Holy Communion 26:29; Mark 14:25).
and Anglo-Chinese School, his worldly sojourn and his
In our Methodist tradition, we is a blessed practice and a
so it can be said he is a true- eternal place in the Kingdom
take it seriously. An ordained holy sign of our union with That is the day to behold!
blue Methodist. of God.
Elder (Pastor) plays “host” and Christ. If our Worship Service Hallelujah, Amen!
From 1 May 2021, Rev Eddie Ho will be in-charge of the “Celebration” pillar comprising Sunday
Services and Hospitality. He will oversee ministries including Worship & Music, Children, Youth,
Mandarin, and the Filipino and Indonesian Fellowships.
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 2021
8 DEEPER IN CHRIST: SPECIAL FEATURE 9
Reflecting on his own life and ministry,
uses these moments to pray
daughters! The movie buff
named his daughters after
he remembers often failing God and entrust his day into God’s
favourite movie characters, and His demands of holiness, God’s hands, knowing ultimately
combining them with names that God is the one who is in
reflecting God’s faithfulness grace and love picking him up in charge of the church.
and grace in his life. His
daughters are now 19 and
every instance to continue being an Love Is The Key
17 years old respectively and instrument for Him.
share a close relationship Love is the heart of Pastor
with their father. Reuben’s vision for Faith.
Reflecting on his own life and the busiest, Pastor Reuben
ministry, he remembers often reserves his Sunday evenings He aims to lead our
Equipped for Ministry
failing God and His demands for dinner with his family, church in reaching out
Joining the Methodist of holiness, God’s grace and and spends time with them to the community, each
Church came after another love picking him up in every wherever possible. member moving in love as
four years of “training his instance to continue being God’s hands and feet. He
mind” at Trinity Theological an instrument for Him. He exercises regularly and shared that goals and key
First hearing God’s call to full- you can have mantou and College (TTC), but not enjoys a good movie as a way performance indicators
time ministry in his final year chill crab?” without God’s lessons in Likewise at Faith, he to rest and recharge. might give purpose and
of studies at the Singapore humility, grace and love. recognises that each direction to Faith’s many
Institute of Commerce, his Seven years into his trading member in the church From intense westerns to successful events and
parents assured him that career, amidst the 9/11 crisis, In 2007, Reverend Reuben Ng should be the hands and Bollywood comedies, we activities, but these would be
God would provide and put God’s call came again. This became a Methodist Pastor feet of God and hopes to discovered that Schindler’s nothing if we have not love
bread on the table. However, time, Pastor Reuben and his and has not looked back see members grow in their List ranks top of his favourite (1 Corinthians 13).
wanting to give his family a wife, Angela, both left their since. Acknowledging the gifts of healing, preaching, movies. He recalled how he
higher standard of living, he jobs and joined Rhema Bible call of God in his life, Pastor planning, and organising and a friend left the cinema He also hopes that the
carved out a successful and Training Centre (RBTC). Reuben shares that even the events for the community. in tears after watching its community will notice the
enriching career as a forex During his diploma studies Pastor-in-charge is placed in scenes of carnage and love our members have
trader in a bank, then saying, there, the family was also a local church by the grace He wants to make disciples sacrifice, and oppression of for each other and the
“Why settle for bread when blessed with their two of God. of all men and women the marginalized. people around us, and
in church and who love that if Faith is suddenly
the community around, Pastor Reuben is not only the removed from her location,
whatever their backgrounds, Pastor-in-charge of Faith; he is that people would miss
religion, race or culture. also the District Superintendent experiencing that love in
for District Two of the Trinity community. And within our
Staying Connected Annual Conference (TRAC). church family, he hopes
To God These roles entail many for us to develop a lifestyle
meetings with people, but of love and outreach,
In the midst of a hectic he always remembers to stay regardless of how that love
schedule, he makes effort connected to God daily. is reciprocated.
to balance his time between
work, recreation and family. In between visits, or when “This would be the real litmus
While his weekends may be driving to appointments, he test,” he emphasised.
Lionel is a volunteer writer on the Faith Communications team. Thirty years a student, twenty
years an educator, and a lifetime of learning... from the Master Teacher.
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 2021
10 DEEPER IN CHRIST 11
GETTING TO KNOW
come for mission work autonomously on a day- I are God’s beloved, let’s be
to begin! But as I prayed to-day basis, there should secure in that!
about it, I sensed the Lord also be connectedness and
REV CHAN MEI MING
directing me to stay on at
the International Baptist
Church Singapore (IBCS) and
understudy the pastor to learn
camaraderie in ministry
for the furtherance of
God’s Kingdom.
Q Share with us the strong
influences in your life
and ministry.
Our New Pastor At Faith. By Esther Teo
A
about pastoral ministry. I eventually applied for a
Pastor Edmund Chan and
“transfer of ordination”,
his wife, Pastor Anne Chan,
Frustrated, I learned from the whilst serving at Ang Mo
whose mentoring group
Lord that the first call God Kio Methodist Church as
I have been in for over 14
places on the life of a person Pastoral Team Member.
years, have been major
Faith welcomed two new pastors in is the call to be His child; and The Methodist Church in
influences in my life. One
January 2021, one of whom was Rev the second is to go wherever Singapore recognized my
of the things I learnt from
He appoints. After graduating Baptist Ordination Credentials
Chan Mei Ming, who has served in from the Baptist Theological as of 1 August 2020.
Pastor Edmund is this –
“Discover the truth; Apply the
Q
full-time ministry for nearly 20 years. Seminary, the opportunity
truth; Reap the benefits; and
Faithlink caught up with her to find out arose for me to become the Who is God to you? Pass it on”.
Minister of Cell Groups at IBCS,
more about her life and influences.
A
where I had worshipped and That is a good question! God Too often we discover the
Q
served for years. is not just a transcendent and truth then immediately pass
Tell us about your call to full-time immanent being who lives out
Q
it on, failing to first apply it
ministry. Why the switch from there, but He is my Heavenly to our own lives. Not having
Baptist to Methodist? Father, and my identity is experienced the benefits
A
Back then, if someone had told me I would found in the fact that I am His when we obey God’s Word,
A
become a pastor, I would have told them they [laughs] Everyone seems child. We all say we know that it takes away from our
were barking up the wrong tree! [laughs] Actually, so curious about this! I feel we are God’s children, but authenticity as Christians and
I am a nurse, by training, and was bonded to and that some distinctives of often this may not go beyond in discipling others.
working at the Singapore General Hospital. During the Methodist Church are head-knowledge.
this time, I was accorded no-pay-leave to study for helpful in church ministry, I am also a big advocate of
my nursing degree in Australia. It was during the and also resonate with I discovered in the reading of literary mentors! Authors like
time in Australia that I sensed the Lord’s call to full- me on a personal level. The Return Of The Prodigal Richard Foster, Dallas Willard,
time ministry. Connectionalism, for Son by Henri Nouwen that I and Bishop Rueben Job have
example, where Methodists am not only God’s child, but ministered to me deeply
Eager to fulfil the call and feeling led to be a are interconnected and also His beloved; He loves through their books. For
missionary, I contemplated breaking my bond with these connections are built me as much as He loves His those who would like to be
SGH. However, the Lord impressed upon me to into the church structure at Son, Jesus. That realization mentored by Jesus, I seriously
complete my bond with SGH, teaching me that a the various levels. was life-changing for me, and recommend you read the
person’s word is his honour. Slightly dampened but allowed me to rest securely Four Gospels – Jesus’ words,
not discouraged, I submitted to His plan and more Baptist churches very much in Him, having “nothing to life, and ministry are recorded
than completed my bond as a nurse. function independently, prove, nothing to lose, and in its pages!
with their highest point of nothing to hide”.
Now, bond-free, I thought the time had come to authority being their Senior/ Rev Chan Mei Ming is in
begin serving as a missionary! However, the Lord Lead Pastor and Board/ the third year of her
When we know, experientially
next impressed upon me to go for theological Council. Connection with Minister-On-Trial (MOT)
and personally we are God’s
studies. Even though I thought I did not need a other Baptist churches is journey. Let’s pray for God’s
beloved, we can rest securely
theological degree to do mission work, the time in voluntary, and each local strength and guidance as
in our Heavenly Father’s love
Seminary was meant to be quality time spent with church is self-governing. she continues to minister to
no matter what happens, and
Him. Reluctantly, I obeyed. our Faith family and those
I believe that as much as seek God’s approval and not
churches should function the approval of man. You and around her!
Nearing the end of my 3-year Master of Divinity
studies, I thought the time must finally have Esther is the youngest volunteer writer in the Faith Comms team. She loves to
read and is a bright star in the making!
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 2021
12 DEEPER IN CHRIST
FA I T H M C . S G / CA M P 13
QUOTABLE QUOTES BY
an Mei Ming
Rev Ch
The first call of a person’s
life is to be a child of God;
and the second is to go
wherever He appoints.
~ On her calling into full-time ministry
As much as churches should
be adaptive to the spaces
where they serve, there should
also be collectiveness and
connectedness with everyone,
a communal support in the
furtherance of God’s Kingdom.
ONE
~ On becoming a Methodist Pastor
12-13 JUNE
God is not just some
transcendent imminent ONLINE &
being that lives out there,
but my Father, and my
identity is found in the fact
that I am His child.
~ On her identity in God
MISSION
CHURCH CAMP 2021
IN-PERSON
R E G I S T R AT I O N
OPENS 18 APRIL
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 2021
14 HEARTBEAT: SMALL GROUPS 15
ONE MISSION
SMALL GROUP
CONFERENCE By Godiva Ysip
The One Mission Small and our Small Group Pastor, Chan Siew Leong, Rev Cheng
Group Conference (OMSGC) Rev Peter Koh, shared about Kim Leong, Jiamin Choo-
was originally scheduled discovering and embracing Fong, Wilson Lau, Ruth
in July 2020 but due to our One Mission. The eight Lew, Esther Ong, Janice
the COVID-19 pandemic, it English breakout sessions Poh, Anna Tan, Pearly Sim,
was postponed indefinitely. were conducted on Saturday, The Tacklebox (TTB) Youth
However, our church life and held concurrently with Leaders: Christiana Chan,
continued even in the midst the Mandarin plenary and Adele Tan, Chloe Ting and
of this pandemic. After six breakout sessions. Joseph Wong, and Small
months of waiting, our Groups, Heritage 1 & 2 and
One Mission Small Group The OMSGC 2021 team of River of Life.
Conference was held on Pastors, Parish Leaders, and
Friday and Saturday, 22 and Small Group (SG) Committee Let us continue to partner
23 January 2021. Members, thanks all God as He accomplishes
participants and volunteers His work through us – His
The English Plenary was who attended or served Church – and to those He
livestreamed via Faith’s at the conference. We are has placed among us, just
YouTube channel on Friday also deeply appreciative to around the corner, along the
evening. Our Pastor-in- the team of speakers who street, and across the regions
charge, Rev Reuben Ng, helmed the various sessions: beyond our borders!
Godiva is a Pastoral Team Member for Small Groups and also oversees Baptism and Membership at Faith.
New post-OMSGC equipping resources under
Small Groups are now available at our church
website https://www.faithmc.sg/portal/.
Contact your Parish Leader should you need
notes and/or an in-depth equipping session
for your Small Group!
Other OMSGC 2021 conference details are
available here: https://faithmc.sg/faithlink.
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 202116 HEARTBEAT : DISCIPLESHIP & NURTURE 17
love one another just as that they not to be sin- young. I have not known life
our Lord has loved us (John focused, or think of it as a without depression until the
13:34) and the church should spiritual/moral failure. Instead, last few years. I hide it very
be a safe space for them to it should be person-focused, well, as many who struggle
talk about it without stigma. helping the person to see with mental health issues
It is therefore imperative God’s grace and hope. This often do. Most would not
that we help to create a is more than just telling them suspect I was depressive
safe environment within the that you would pray for them unless they were closer to
church for our members to or simply quote Bible verses. me since I generally function
open up and feel loved and Being person-focused means well at work. “Difficult” is an
accepted. This allows them to investing lots of time for them understatement to describe
receive healing. to be assured of our care, our that period of my life. It was
presence and our attention. not easy to open up about my
CONVERSATIONS@FAITH: TH: The statistics are indeed
a concern. Behind these
numbers are individuals
Knowing they are being
prayed for and receiving Bible
verses are encouraging but
depression in church. I have
been on the receiving end of
clichéd responses such as “I
MENTAL HEALTH
suffering, and sadly, many only when it is being shared will pray for you,” “you need
times they remain alone and in the context of a caring and to trust God more,” or “don’t
misunderstood. Furthermore, authentic relationship. let the devil take away your
these individuals have families joy.” They were well-meaning,
By Khoo Tse Horng and loved ones who need TH: Indeed, while we all have but these responses actually
the necessary support in good intentions, we need shut me up.
The Discipleship and Nurture Committee Professor Leslie Lim who spoke on Mood knowing how to provide to be sensitive in how we
(D&N) conducted its second session of the Disorders, Dr Ken Ung on Creating a Safe care. So, for our church to journey with someone who Being a church staff made
Conversations@Faith* (C@F) series on 29 Environment, Ms Audrey Yeo on Suicide, Mr be an environment that is is hurting. One disturbing it tougher as there was
August 2020. Chong Ee Jay on Addiction, and our resident safe for everyone, it has to point I learnt was that even apprehension and anxiety
counsellor, Ms Chong Mingli who conducted start with us. We need to be a pastors don’t feel safe sharing over my colleagues, leaders
The focus for the second session was on the Youth workshop. safe space for those who are their mental health struggles. and pastors’ response, not to
Mental Health and featured an impressive struggling, and for those who It indicates that the church mention how the members
line-up of speakers who covered a wide range Below is a conversation between Khoo need to feel safe when they is really not a very safe would think. Should someone
of related topics. Pastor Chua Seng Lee, Tse Horng, Chairman of D&N at Faith and are vulnerable. environment to be vulnerable with mental health issues
Deputy Senior Pastor of Bethesda Bedok- Tammy Ang, Pastoral Team Member (D&N) for church leaders. work in the church? I was
Tampines Church, was the plenary speaker. on the urgency for the topic of mental What was one thing at this and still am every bit as
The workshop speakers included Associate health for our church. C@F session on Mental Health In one study by a Christian competent as anyone of
that resonated with you? group, only 65% of church them and would not want
leaders surveyed felt that them to give me concession
TA: Pastor Seng Lee the church was a safe place on their expectations on my
Tse Horng (TH): Tammy, what were the people experienced some form of mental emphasised that “our mental to talk about mental health work. I did not want to be
reasons for having Mental Health as the focus disorders (mood, anxiety, addiction, etc) [2]. illness doesn’t define us; God issues. Even more concerning made to feel like a liability
of the second Conversations@Faith series? One in 11 youths is affected by depression. defines us”. It was extremely is that only 28% of church staff because they thought I was
liberating and comforting to felt equipped to help someone “siao” (insane) or that I was
Tammy Ang (TA): According to statistics, the On top of the common addiction to be reminded that not even with mental health issues. using it as an excuse. I have
suicide rate among our youths and elderly is substances and pornography, there is a rise our mental state should felt very misunderstood and
a great concern. There were 400 reported in cases of cyber addiction. Looking at these define who we are. Our Tammy, I understand decided to hide it even more.
suicide cases in 2019, of which 71 were in statistics, we are aware that there are fellow identities rest in God alone! you had experienced Suppressing it definitely did
their twenties [1]. Based on a study by the brothers and sisters at Faith who also struggle depression before. Would not help the condition.
Institute of Mental Health (IMH), one in seven with mental health issues. We are called to The other point that you like to share with us
was comforting was the your experience? TH: Thanks for opening
[1]
https://www.channelnewsasia.com/news/singapore/suicide-sos-samaritans-singapore-youths-aged-20s-12985146 emphasis on those who were up and being vulnerable,
[2]
https://www.imh.com.sg/uploadedFiles/Newsroom/News_Releases/SMHS%202016_Media%20Release_FINAL_web%20upload.pdf
journeying with persons TA: Unknown to many, I Tammy. I must confess that
struggling with mental illness, had depression since I was being a co-labourer with you
Conversations@Faith is a series of talks organised by the Discipleship & Nurture ministry. The aim is
to address topics of interest etc… [description will be updated]
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 202118 HEARTBEAT : DISCIPLESHIP & NURTURE 19
in D&N for so many years, I • Accept them as they are, listen in silence. We have
did not have any clue that you connect with the person, to resist offering answers,
had depression or even asked and feel the pain with the comments, or our thoughts.
enough about your state person. When the person All we should attempt to
of mental wellbeing. It is so feels you are there, it do is to empathize with the
important that we take time really helps the person to person, and acknowledge the
to do that for one another, carry the “load”. By feeling agonising pain that they
since, as a church, we are their pain, trust is built and are experiencing.
called to love one another. I when the time is right, the
truly believe that loving one person would be more What would be very helpful is
another requires not just receptive to seeking help. to offer an open channel and
goodwill but knowledge, skill, just be with them. Educate
and time. • Phrases such as “I yourself. Learn all you can
understand” are not about the person’s condition.
Could you share with us how helpful because one Sign up for a course. Learn
we can better love and care will not be able to fully basic listening skills.
for those among us with understand what the
mental health issues? What other person is going TH: These are indeed very interest to serve. It may TA: To my fellow brothers and TA: Yes, certainly. To those
would be useful for members through; and that is ok. useful tips and reminders. I help to ask the person if the sisters, there is hope in the who are helping a loved one,
in the Small Groups to take So try to avoid using do believe the sense of work or ministry is within condition and in the struggle it is a tough journey. Do not
note of? this phrase. purpose or mission is their capacity to manage. you face. Even when healing give up, even if it may feel
important for a person. Our Ministry leaders should is not complete or does not like three steps forward and
TA: The culture of capitalistic • Do not be in a hurry to purpose energises us. In not decide for that person come quickly, the Lord will two steps back at times. You
productivity has influenced offer solutions, quote your opinion, can a person unilaterally. Honesty and find ways to bring comfort are important to them. But
the church so greatly that Bible verses, or try to fix with mental health issues still authenticity builds trust. Open and healing to us. Take the please protect and take care
we compromise on human the person. You may not serve God? conversations on how we first step to talk to someone of yourself by not doing this
relationships, even in church be able to do anything could support each other you trust, and seek help; there alone as well. It is important
sometimes. When someone practical for the person in TA: Definitely! I believe while serving together will is no shame in that! to be aware of your own state
gets physically wounded, we that moment. all of us can serve unless help each person grow and of wellbeing. Seek support in
would not tell the person to the person’s condition is gain confidence. We need More importantly, do not your journey.
ignore the pain and not think • Never put ourselves on debilitating or unstable. journey alone. Ask God to
to be sensitive when serving
about it., would we? So why a pedestal – as if we Otherwise, allowing the lead you to the right person if TH: Thank you, Tammy!
alongside persons with
would we tell someone who is know everything. person (if the person is the first person you reached
mental health issues. Look
struggling with emotional pain willing and able) to serve, can out to is not receptive. This To the rest of our Faith
out for signs and understand
to ignore the pain and expect • Do not trivialise their facilitate the healing process. may be the thorn that we family, D&N will continue
when they need time out.
that they would feel better by experiences by saying But each person will differ need to live with but God’s to provide conversations
just not thinking about it? statements like “never in the capacity or the roles presence is with us, and
TH: That is very assuring. I and equipping opportunities
mind, everyone goes they serve in. The church our Hope is in the God who
remember reading the late cares for us. Recognise that to help us be faithful
Here are some suggestions through it,” “it will should recognise that these
Henri Nouwen, who had the journey for each one of disciples of Christ, in loving
(from personal and others’ be okay,” “just pray persons with mental health
been through depression, us is different, but don’t give and caring for each other.
experiences) that would la” or “all families are issues, are serving even in
who wrote, “The main up as we make sense of our With a strong culture of
be helpful: dysfunctional.” While their brokenness. Yet despite
it may be helpful to their challenging state, they question is not how can we situation. care and trust, we will be
• Listen with your heart. normalise the situation, can still offer their gifts and hide our wounds… but how
more able to help one
When someone shares such statements mostly strengths to bless the church can we put our woundedness TH: Thanks, Tammy. That is
in service to others”. Could
another grow in Christ. You
deeply and openly, it trivialise the experiences and others. encouraging. How about a
you give a shoutout to those shoutout to those who are are welcome to write to
means that the person of the one suffering
who are struggling with journeying with their loved me (tsehorng@gmail.com)
is trying to trust you. from depression. There is a need for honest
Listening with your heart conversations and patience mental health issues? ones and friends? with ideas!
means listening in order to It is perfectly fine to let to journey with the person
understand their emotions, the person know you have who is struggling and who Tse Horng has been blessed by the ministry of Faith’s people and his Small Group, Barnabas, since 1982. He attends the 11.15am service with his
wife, Bee Leng, and his children are in the church’s children and youth ministries. He is a Principal of a mission school and serves as the Chairman of
worries, and beliefs. no words to offer, or to has already expressed an Nurture and Discipleship at Faith. He hopes to receive comments at tsehorng@gmail.com.
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 202120 HEARTBEAT : FAMILY LIFE HEARTBEAT : FAMILY LIFE 21
THE EVERY SEASON COUNTS
we were presented with unless we are transformed
a thought-provoking by the Holy Spirit first.
view: In fulfilling
IMPORTANCE those aforementioned
responsibilities, we were not
When we are immersed
in the Holy Spirit, we will
Did you know that there
is actually an “SOP” in
fathering a child? Here’s
During this session, a
participant from Faith
commented that he wished
OF FATHERHOOD
building a Christian home then begin to realise God what participants learnt someone had told him this
which focuses on worship in us, and progressively during one session: earlier because his child had
and prayer as a family; we God with us, and already grown up and he
Family Life reports on The World Needs a Father were instead building a eventually us in God. Only (1) Making a mother happy had missed many windows
which was conducted online. By John Woon “secular” home that focuses then can we release the during conception of opportunity. However,
on studies and successes,
Spirit of God in us to our phase promotes faster participants also realised
and in where Christians live.
family and to the world. In growth of the baby. that there are teachable
In November 2020, 15 fathers Fatherlessness And The Upon reflection, we had
this way, we become the moments at every stage of our
from Faith Methodist Church indeed “outsourced” the
Cry Of Our Children light of the world, a city (2) The first thousand days children’s lives. When these
attended the TWNAF (The spiritual development of
that is not hidden, giving of a baby’s life is key to opportunities present
World Needs A Father) online Most people may assume our children to the church.
light to everyone in the developing his or her themselves, fathers must
course. The sessions were led that the role of a father is We had failed to be spiritual
house (Matthew 5:14). brain potential. be prepared to provide
by Cassie Carsten and was held not that difficult a task: He fathers in our family, and this
good support to their
over four consecutive weeks. is required to work hard to results in the cry of many of
(3) Preschool days is the children because they
There were a total of 330 provide funds for the family, our children today.
phase where a child are the key
participants from 14 countries. strengthen bonding by going develops either to laying
for tours as a family during Transforming the Home autonomy or a strong
The World Needs A Father school holidays, nurture uncertainty. foundation
children’s spirituality by The good news is that the
is a worldwide movement in them.
sending them to Sunday Bible has the power to
to help fathers bring heaven (4) Children explore their
School classes, and support transform our homes. We identity and sexuality
into their homes. We covered
their learning by signing up can bring heaven home, but when they are in
fourteen modules in total on
topics such as, fatherlessness for enrichment classes. unless we (fathers) change, primary school.
and the cry of the children, nothing will change. We
every season counts, and the This was what most cannot transform a secular John is a member of the Family Life Committee at Faith Methodist Church.
participants thought until home to a Christian home
father’s wound.
MOVING AHEAD:
THE DEEP DIVE SESSIONS
A group of 13 Faith Methodist Church fathers have
committed to gather every fourth Saturday of the month
A FATHER’S heaven home to must step into inner victory. Indeed, two are
in 2021 to help conduct The World Needs a Father Deep
Dive Series. We are privileged and thankful to partner
WOUNDS our families. (Matthew 18:22)
better than one, with Pasir Ris Mission Church which will be leading this
programme. The purpose for this monthly gathering
• The sins of our parents Nursing a wound is not because they have is to journey together in a fathers’ community and to
• How successful we sowed years ago may have easy and fathers often fail to a good reward for encourage one another to apply the truths we have
father our children created predispositions, but address their wounds because learnt into our daily lives.
depends on how successful it need not create they are fighting alone. their toil. For if they We invite you to join us as we aspire to bring heaven
we manage to nurse our destination. Therefore, it is important to be fall, one will lift up into our homes.
our wounds. accountable in a community his fellow. But woe
• Whatever the wound is, we of like-minded fathers because
• If we do not address these must own it, and we must we need to practise biblical to him who is alone. For more info on Family Life ministry, contact
wounds, it is harder to bring forgive that person, and we principles together. ~ Ecclesiastes 4:9-12 (ESV) Wendy Voon at 6471-9420.
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 202122 HEARTBEAT : FAMILY LIFE
THE WORLD NEEDS
A FATHER DEEP
DIVE SERIES:
OVERCOMING PORN
By John Woon
What can fathers do to
confront the negative
impacts of fatherlessness
caused by negative impact of
the porn pandemic?
What safeguards can we have
in the home?
addiction, the behaviour
is compulsive. With porn
addiction, we spend an
inordinate amount of time
watching porn instead of
interacting with others or
completing important tasks.
The consequence is failure
X X X
The Lure of Porn
Why is pornography
addictive? Pornography is
incognito and it offers us a
desirable fantasy world where
we can be worshipped like
God, with sexual relationships
that do not reject us. Instead,
it gives an illusion of perfect
intimacy. Porn offers us an
escape away from a world
of failure and into a world
where no judgement exists.
During the focus group
discussion, we attempted to
answer two related questions:
How should we respond to
porn addiction as a church,
Battling Porn
Colossians 3:5 (NLT)
So put to death the sinful,
earthly things lurking within
you. Have nothing to do with
sexual immorality, impurity,
lust, and evil desires. Don’t be
greedy, for a greedy person
is an idolater, worshiping the
things of this world.
The following are some
suggested solutions that we
can introduce in our homes
to protect our children and
help them overcome the
addiction of porn.
Here is a systematic
HEARTBEAT : FAMILY LIFE
set in place a system of accountability. Second, we can
replace the time-alone moments where porn might be
watched, and replace it with some other positive habits. And
finally, we should educate our children (and us) to run from
unhelpful situations, and remove all things that might trap us.
23
and guilt. and secondly, what safeguards approach: First, we should
These were some of the can we put in place for our recognise the triggers, and (Refer to the chart above for more information.)
questions being discussed How do we know that we are children to protect them
during our Zoom focus addicted to pornography? against porn?
group discussion on 27 Here are some signs: In closing, I find this song “We Fall Down” by Bob Carlisle, especially meaningful as I remember
February as part of The One of the safeguards that the families who are tackling this challenging issue in their homes and in our journey of faith:
World Needs a Father Deep • Craving to watch porn we can set up in our home
Dive Series. • Failed attempt to cut down is for fathers [and mothers]
or control watching porn to set a godly example. The Cursing every step of the So when he saw a priest who ‘Cause if the priest who fell
Pornography addiction only thing necessary for the way, he bore a heavy load walked, for once, beyond the could find the
• Failure to complete major
can seriously damage triumph of evil is for adults to To the market ten miles away, iron gate Grace of God to be enough
relationships and take tasks at work, church, the journey took its toll He said, “tell me of your life Then there must be some
do nothing. We believe that
precedence over important school, home there is no easy solution, it And every day he passed inside the place” hope for the rest of us
functions and responsibilities • Having social problems takes a lot of accountability, a monastery’s high And the priest replied There must be some hope left
in our lives. If we have a porn because of porn and if we are willing to submit cathedral walls We fall down, we get up for us
to God, we believe the Holy And it made his life seem We fall down, we get up We fall down, we get up
Spirit will work in us. And if meaningless and small We fall down, we get up We fall down, we get up
we are willing to be open to And he wondered how it And the saints are just We fall down, we get up
our spouse, we believe our would be to live in such the sinners And the saints are just
spouse will go through this a place Who fall down and get up the sinners
together with us. Remember, To be warm, well fed and at Who fall down and get up
Disappointment followed
no wound is so deep as to be peace, to shut the world away
him home,
out of the reach of Christ’s he’d hoped for so much more
redeeming grace. But he saw himself in a light
he had never seen before
If you are trying to overcome addiction to porn or you need some help with your child, we invite
you to contact Lionel Chan from Family Life at 9642-2512.
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 202124 HEARTBEAT : MANDARIN MINISTRY 25
EVERLASTING
BLESSINGS AND PEACE
Our Mandarin Ministry celebrates the Lunar New
Year with an evangelistic Service.
By Claire Yeh
Also known as Lunar New Year and limitation of people was successful. We had
or the Spring Festival, Chinese allowed in gatherings. a total of 158 attendees,
New Year is undoubtedly including volunteers who
the most important event in Despite these restrictions, our served at the event. Our
the Chinese calendar, and Mandarin Ministry Committee invited speaker, Reverend
is traditionally celebrated by prayed and decided to continue Sophia Tan preached
Chinese all over the world. with our annual Chinese New powerfully on “Everlasting
Year Harvest Service on Sunday, Blessings and Peace” based
C
Chinese
C
New Year in 2021 14 February 2021. on Job 22:21.
was very different for those
M celebrating
M in Singapore due All glory be to God, our We rejoice and give all glory
Y
to
Y
the coronavirus pandemic. application to hold the to our Lord Jesus for one
There were many restrictive event with a maximum salvation case. To Him be all
CM
measures
MC
like social distancing capacity of 250 attendees glory and praise!
MY YM
Claire is the Assistant Pastoral Team Member for the Mandarin Ministry and
CY YC
Outreach and Social Concerns Ministry.
CMY YMC
K K
年年纳福，岁岁平安
供稿人：叶冯清颜
华人新年，又称春节，无疑是 尽管如此，我们的华语事工委 我们的特邀讲者，陈鸾卿牧
农历中最重要的日子，是全球 员会在祷告后，决定在2021年 师，以约伯记22:21和主题「
华人普天同庆的传统节日。 2月14日按原定计划举行我们 年年纳福，岁岁平安」，有力
的年度农历新年布道会。 地证道。
由于冠状病毒大流行，2021
年的农历新年与往年大不相 我们成功申请到举办250人的 我们为一位朋友得救恩欢喜，
同。我国实施了各种安全措 活动许可，荣耀归于上帝。我 一切荣耀归于我们的主耶稣！
清颜是华语/外展与社区关怀事工的助理教牧同工。
施，如安全社交距离与限制 们为当天出席的158名会众与 愿一切荣耀和赞美归于祂！
聚会人数。 志工感谢上帝。
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 202126 HEARTBEAT : MANDARIN MINISTRY 27
C C
M M
Y Y
CM MC
MY YM
CY YC
CMY YMC
K K
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 202128 HEARTBEAT : MISSIONS 29
SERVING
WITH L VE
A Digital Mission Trip to Shwepyithar,
Myanmar. By Janice Lim
Serving with Love”, as well as bandwidth and adequate IT
home visitations. equipment to provide optimal
participation for over 100
children and youths. We also now our testimony that with understanding of loving God
Planning a Virtual God, all things are possible! through their actions.
Mission Trip made contingency plans in case
of power outage (which is not
uncommon) at the orphanages. After weeks of meetings, “Visiting” Singapore
In early October, the team
Finally, we arranged to have IT preparation, synchronized from Myanmar
leaders and our missions
enablers and translators who prayer sessions and
ministry volunteers met over
could provide support before rehearsals, the big day The highlight on the second
Zoom to plan the programme,
were able to conduct our and during the 2-day event. finally arrived. Besides the day of the virtual trip was
with much thought being given
first ever Virtual Mission Trip participants from the five a video called “All About
to how we could overcome
For most of us, the year 2020 for the children’s home in With the above considerations homes, we had 21 volunteers Singapore”, a compilation of
the constraints posed by a
has been a year like no other. Shwepyithar, Myanmar via in mind, the team decided to (20 in Singapore and 1 from short videos contributed by
virtual setting. Hence, we
The COVID-19 pandemic Zoom on 26-27 December pre-record various segments of Canada) calling in on Zoom our Singapore volunteers and
planned the programmes such
brought about massive 2020. COVID-19 may have the Bible camp: Bible lessons, with much anticipation. The slickly stitched together by
that they were creative, could
changes to the way we live, hindered us from travelling worship, and skits. We played program started promptly at one of our ministry volunteers,
promote engagement and
work, study, socialise, attend to meet our Myanmar friends the recorded videos that came 10am Singapore time (8:30am Zhimin. This 10-minute video
interaction over Zoom, and
church and travel. However, in person for the year, but with simultaneous translation in Myanmar). was meant to bring the
prepared Bible lessons that our
even though it brought God gave us the technology, during the event itself. This Myanmese children on a virtual
young Myanmarese friends
numerous businesses and manpower, expertise and meant more systematic What followed was a full day of trip to Singapore and see what
could relate to.
activities to a standstill, our equipment to share His Word preparatory work was required Bible lessons on the theme of our day-to-day life is like.
Sovereign God has continually and love with the children and of the organisers, orphanage God’s Love, shared by several
We were also mindful of
shown that He reigns, His work youths in the various homes. home leaders and volunteers Singapore volunteers via video The children had the chance
logistical challenges, including
never stops and His Word is from both countries. or Zoom. The Myanmese to view Singapore’s places of
the observance of safe
not chained. In keeping up with our children also recapped their interest, schools, wet markets,
distancing measures in both
previous Acts 1:8 trips, this learning points and shared hawker centres, parks, Faith
It is indeed by God’s generous virtual trip included a Bible
Singapore and Myanmar. We Spreading God’s Love
had to ensure that the five with us their takeaways. It was Methodist Church, how we
provision that we, together camp with the theme, By the grace of our generous heartening to hear many of commute, where we exercise
orphanages had Wifi network
with our partners in Myanmar, “Meeting God Face to Face – God, this virtual mission trip is them share about their deeper and pursue our hobbies. The
connection with sufficient
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 202130 HEARTBEAT : MISSIONS HEARTBEAT : MISSIONS 31
A DIFFERENT
Christmas Celebration
By Brenda Tang
media team also worked We are indeed thankful for the opportunity to continue to
really hard to put together a serve with love and to connect with our Myanmese field
With the sudden uncertainty of life in 2020 caused by the
summary video of the activities partners despite the challenges of 2020!
COVID-19 pandemic, online missions became the new way of
from Day 1, showcasing the
outreach. With borders shut and leisure air travel coming to a
children’s happy faces and
Here are some reflections from the participants of the halt, we had to adapt to the situation and find creative solutions
their craft works.
two-day virtual trip: to continue to reach out to and minster to the children in Nujiang
village, Myanmar. However, challenges arose with the limited
After watching the videos,
I have found this year’s The most important network infrastructure in the Nujiang village.
we proceeded to our virtual
home visitations by going
Bible lesson, craftwork lesson God has
and home visit held over taught me is, if we Each December over the past few years, the Tacklebox (TTB)
into breakout groups with
Zoom really helpful. have the skills and ministry has been spreading the Christmas joy and reaching out
the five orphanages. During
The children could knowledge to help to the children through activities such as carolling and a concert
the breakout sessions, we
for the village children. Despite the physical restrictions, different
managed to improvise experience and apply the others, it is useless
resources were tapped on last year to continue spreading the
familiar activities which lessons learnt in practical without love. So even
Christmas joy and message to the children.
we would usually conduct and spiritual ways. if we have no wealth,
during our actual trips, such Pastor Kyaw San, we still have the strength The 2020 Tacklebox Year 4 leaders came together to record a
as, song performances by Orphanage leader of FCC to act on the basis Christmas message through video on Zoom. The message of
the children and games. We
of love to help others. God’s love and encouragement for the children to continue being
also had a dialogue session
The most important Cherry, 16-year-old girl the salt and light of the world was sent in parts via Facebook
where the children shared
their reflections, testimonies lesson God has from FCC Messenger to the teaching leaders in the centre.
and thanksgiving. taught me is to love
God with all my heart. Be intentional in serving In addition, gift packs containing notebooks filled with written
God when doors open words of encouragement to each child were couriered to one of
Reaping in Joy Cherry, 14-year-old girl
the teaching leader’s house in Lashio. The teaching leaders then
from Makarios Home for us to serve, especially
brought the video to the children’s houses to reach out to the
It was a joy hearing so giving away our time. families while waiting for the gifts to arrive in Lashio.
many thanking God for His I learnt to love others Jessie, regular
protection and granting them even though we are Acts 1:8 tripper The COVID-19 pandemic and infrastructure challenges did not
the opportunity to delve not physically stop the youths from reaching out to the children in Nujiang.
deeper into His Word or present with them. Even more with the ongoing pandemic, we wanted to spread the
spend time with their families
Lee Lian, regular festive cheer to the children. Even though we could not celebrate
during the lockdown. On the
Acts 1:8 tripper the festive season in person, we connected in spirit.
other hand, some also shared
how they felt isolated and
We thank the Lord for the opportunity to continue reaching out
bored when schools were Janice is a regular Acts 1:8 tripper to Shwepyithar,
Myanmar. She is part of Grace Vision Small Group and and connecting with the children in Nujiang.
closed for most of 2020. enjoys travelling and reading.
Brenda is part of Echadh Small Group and serves in the Missions Committee. She enjoys
engaging the youth to explore mission fields locally and globally.
APRIL 2021 . FAITHLINK FAITHLINK . APRIL 2021You can also read
