July 2003 - Pentecost Methodist Church
Transcription
July 2003 - Pentecost Methodist Church
Pentecost Newsletter of the Pentecost Methodist Church MITA Number 195/10/2002 July Issue, 2003 * PASTOR’s Message By Rev Jonathan Seet, Pastor-in-charge !"I= ! When we examine what God says about giving in the Old Testament, it may cause many of us to conclude that God talks too much about money. The Israelites had to give the first tenth of their crops to support the temple ministry. They also had to give to feed the poor as well as to provide for the major feasts. The Israelites were also instructed to give the first born of every animal. When they harvested their crops, they were told not to harvest the edge of the field nor pick up the part of the crop that fell on the ground. This way the poor would be able to “glean the fields.” There were times in which the people were told to bring “free will” offerings to provide for things such as the building of the temple. God also required that whenever an individual came to the temple to seek forgiveness, dedicate a child or do almost any religious thing, he is to offer a sacrifice. Deuteronomy 16:16 says, “[You] shall not appear before the Lord empty handed.” I do not think that we will be surprised if there was a revolt by the people for having to give so much but it did not happen. Instead we discover that when Israel gave as God commended, God blessed Israel. Deuteronomy 28:1-6 says, “If you fully obey the Lord your God and carefully follow his commands… you will be blessed in the city and blessed in the country… the fruit of your womb will be blessed and the crops of your land and the young of your livestock… your basket and your kneading trough will be blessed. You will be blessed when you come in and blessed when you go out”. When we move into the New Testament, Paul writes about giving cheerfully and not as one compelled to give. We are no longer ruled by the laws of the Old Testament. At the same time, we know that God has already set for us a guideline in the Old Testament and we also remember that God instructs us to give generously so that we can participate in the blessings he has prepared for the generous. (... continued on page 3) * Adapted from “A Sermon on Giving” by Rev Stephen Scarlett. Contents PASTOR’s Message ... continued from cover page PASTOR’S MESSAGE BEING A FAITHFUL STEWARD 1-3 MANDARIN OUTREACH MINISTRY: VOCAL CLASS PLANNING RETREAT FOR YEAR 2003 4 Partaking the Holy Communion... PERANAKAN MINISTRY: INDONESIAN OUTREACH 5 CHURCH LEADERSHIP 2002 / 2003 6 Candlelight Prayer Service on 29 March 2003. WOMEN’S SOCIETY OF CHRISTIAN SERVICE 8 AN INTRODUCTION TO WILLIAM OLDHAM 9 COMING EVENTS 10 THE BOYS’ BRIDAGE: TRUE CHRISTIAN MEN 11 THE GIRLS’ BRIGADE: DO YOU KNOW 12 ‘Pray For Peace’... praying in groups. PENTECOST METHODIST CHURCH Baptism by immersion on 13 April 2003. WORSHIP SERVICES Peranakan/ Indonesian: Sunday 7.45am English: Sunday 9.15am / 11.00am Mandarin: Sunday 1.30pm Easter Sunrise Service. SUNDAY SCHOOL Youth (Ages 13-18): 9.15am Nursery to Primary School (Ages 4-12): 9.15am & 11.00am Eating breakfast after Easter Sunrise Service. Toddlers (Ages 2-3):11.00am Mandarin Sunday School (Ages 4-12): 1.30pm KINDERGARTEN 1st session: 8.15am - 11.15am 2nd session: 11.30am - 2.30pm As 2 Corinthians 9:6 says, “Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly and whoever sows generously will also reap generously.” And in verse 8, “God is able to provide you with every blessing in abundance, so that you may always have enough of everything and may provide in abundance for every good work.” The foundation for financial stewardship in the Bible is the tithe. When we receive our income, the first thing that we should do is to set aside a tenth of what we make to give to God through his church. By giving to God the first part, we are dedicating all of our money to God. In return, God puts his blessing on the rest of our income and makes it sufficient to meet our needs. In accordance with biblical teaching, tithing results in a net gain for the giver. This does not always mean a net financial gain. There is a story of a man who tithed faithfully from the income of his business, which subsequently failed. Someone said, “You lost everything.” He said, “No, I still have the money I gave away. It is deposited in heaven’s bank and no one can take that away.” God’s response of blessing to our faithful tithing always leaves us better off than if we had not given God the tithe. Tithing is not something we do in the emotion of a moment. It is a discipline of the Christian life. Just as we sanctify the week by worshiping God on the first day; just as we sanctify the day by beginning it with prayer; just as we sanctify the meal by beginning it with grace; so we sanctify our money by giving the first part to God. By these faithful habits we bear witness that God takes the first priority in our lives. And God, in return, shows us how incredibly faithful He is. As Philippians says, “My God will supply all your needs according to His riches in glory in Christ Jesus” (4:19). COUNSELLING SERVICES Contact: Hoe Sing, Yoke Lin, Solomon, Joshua (Youth) or Debby (Mandarin) Pentecost Methodist Church 4 Pasir Ris Drive 6 Singapore 519420 Tel: 6584-0297; Fax: 6584-0445 E-Mail: [email protected] URL: www.pmc.org.sg Let us dedicate ourselves to God by pledging to him a part of our income for another year. You will be receiving the pledge card soon as our church’s new financial year begins in August. The Lord has given to us this opportunity to participate with Him in His ministry. I believe that God will generously provide for the ministry of His body through every member and worshipper who gives to the church. Reception Reception of of Members Members at at Easter Easter Sunday Sunday Service. Service. Editorial team Rev Jonathan Seet Jen Yoke Lin Sabrina Cher Khoo Boo Leong By pledging to the church, we affirm our support and commitment to the ministry of Pentecost Methodist Church. God has given to us a guideline as to how much to give but at the end of the day He still leaves it to us to decide on the amount. I want to encourage each and every worshipper and member of the church to pledge to the church. By pledging, you are helping us in our planning. By pledging, you are committing yourself to be faithful in the area of giving. Many times, New members selling breakfast to raise funds for Poor & Needy. Publisher Pentecost Methodist Church 4 Pasir Ris Drive 6 Singapore 519420 Tel: 6584 0297 Fax: 6584 0445 email: [email protected] url: www.pmc.org.sg to Print by Design PublishCom (S) Pte Ltd Tel: 6272 0966 The articles and editorial comments in the newsletter do not necessarily represent the official view of the church, leaders, staff or members. Umbrellas given as Anniversary Gifts. Peranakan Choir singing at 71st Anniversary Service. we fear commitment but it is only when we make visible and tangible commitments that we will discipline ourselves to keep these resolves. Too often, our internal resolves and commitments are neglected because we have not expressed it tangibly. We recognize that some of us do not have a steady and regular income. For such people, it is still good for you to send in a pledge card although the amount can be left blank. When !=J= !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"# !"#$%&' ()!"*+, !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&' !"#$%!&'()*+,-./ !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&NS:NS !=KKK= !"#$%& !"#$%&'()*+!,-. !"#$#%&!'()"*+,! !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'( May the peace and blessings of God always be with you! !"#$%&'()*+,-.// !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 we receive your card, we know that you are committing yourself to support the church financially and will give as the Lord enables you. You can change or stop your pledge commitment at any time by informing us. I trust that you will be faithful in giving to the Lord and as you do so, God’s blessings will rest upon you. !"OUNS !"#$%&' !"#$%&'()*+,-./ !"#$%&'()*+,(-. !"#$%&'()*+,%-. !"#$%&'()*(+,-( !"#$%&'!"#()*+, !"#$!%&'()*+ !"#$%&'()%&*+ !" !"#$"#% !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'!()*+,-./ !"#$%&'()*+,-.#$ !"#$%&'()*!+$%, !"#$%&'()*+, !"VS !" #$%!"% =U !"#$%&'())*+ !" #$%%&'!()*+, ! !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'()*+,%'-. !" !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'() *+,-.& !"#$%&'()*+(,- !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'$()*+,-. !"#$%&'()*"+$,-% !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'()*+,-./$ !"#$%&'())*+, !!" !"#$%&'()*+(,-# !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'()*+,-!./ !"#$%&'( !")#* !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'()#$*+,!"#QNV !"#$%&'! !"#$%& '()*+,-./ ! !"#$%&'()!*+,-./ !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'()*+!,-./ !"#$%&'()*+,!-. !" !"#$%&#$'()*+,-. !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%$&'( )*$+, !"#$%&'()*+,-./ !"#$%&'()*&'+,-! !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'()*+,-./ !"#$%&'()*$%+,!"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#= !"#$%&'()* !"#$ !%&'()*'+,!"#$%&'()*+,-./( !"#$%&'()*+,-. !"#$%&'()*+,-./ !"#$%&'()*+,-./0 !"#$%&'()*+,-./$ !"#$%&'()*+, -. !"#$%&'()*+,-. !"#$%&''!()*+ July Issue 2003 Pentecost TIMES 3 MANDARIN MINISTRY Vocal Class THE PERANAKAN MINISTRY Indonesian Outreach By Debby Lee T h e M a n d a r i n Ministry organised a one-and-a-halfmonth vocal class for brothersand sisters-in-Christ who have a strong interest in singing or would like to improve on their singing skills. A total of 16 brothers and sisters signed up for the class. Vocal instructor Lee Siew Lan taught us voice projection, the correct way of breathing and the use of the diaphragm, diction and various techniques in singing. With constant prayers, God’s presence and the efforts put in by every participant, all of us, including the older ones, showed great improvement over the weeks. In the last lesson, everyone presented a song and Siew Lan commented on our mistakes. Thanks be to God for we have made great progress in our singing. We would like to thank our teacher for her patience in teaching. By Mr. Johnny Chew = !"#$%&'()*+,-./01234*56 !"#$%&'()*+,-./01' !"#$%&'()*+,-./0123456751 !"#$%&'()$*)+,-./0123 !"#$%&'()*+,-./0&12345&+6 !"#$%&' ()*#+,-./0123 045 !"#$%&'( !"#$%&'()*+,#-./012345678 !"#$%&'() *+,-.#$/0123% !"#$%&'()*+$"",-./0123 OMMP MANDARIN MINISTRY Planning Retreat for Year 2003 O n 1 May 2003, about 20 members from the Mandarin Ministry gathered at YWCA for the 2003 planning retreat. Pastor Chang from Chin Lien Bible Seminary was the speaker for the retreat. Besides preaching on the Word of God, he also shared with the group his experiences serving his church, starting outreach programmes and organising committees to work together to serve the Lord. Five groups were formed for the discussion. The Worship and Prayer group discussed issues pertaining to worship and prayer and the possibility of increasing the frequency of the choir’s hymn presentation from once to twice a month. The Teaching and Equipping group covered topics such as the Sunday School curriculum, shortage of Sunday School teachers and the future direction of the Disciples class. The Fellowship and Small Group team proposed large-scale talks related to family life and health. The Mission and Outreach team planned for the overseas mission trips. The Community Penetration group plans to expand their current activities of distributing mandarin oranges and mooncakes to include showing care and concern for the needy in the community. Every member contributed in the retreat, giving constructive suggestions and comments. There was also time for combined fellowship and prayers. Some members stayed on for the second day to discuss the budget. 4 Pentecost TIMES July Issue 2003 !" O ur church began with a vision in the 1930s to reach out to the nyonas and babas (the StraitsBorn Chinese) living in the vicinity of Geylang, Joo Chiat, and Katong. God provided the person, Mr. Chew Hock Hin, who gave up his successful business career to answer God’s call. The first service in Peranakan was held on Pentecost Sunday on May 15, 1933 at Geylang Straits Chinese Methodist Church with Rev. Chew Hock Hin as the founder Pastor. The church thus far was strictly a Malay-speaking church. Eventually, the children of the Peranakan worshippers attended English schools and English was then incorporated into the Peranakan services in early 1956. As years grew on, our Peranakan congregation diminished in numbers as most of the elderly Peranakan members were called home by the Lord. We were left with a few faithfuls numbering around 40 on ordinary Sundays and 45 on Communion Sundays. !"#$% When our church was relocated at Pasir Ris, we opened our doors to the Indonesian community living in the neighbourhood of Pasir Ris and beyond. We thank God that during the last three years, about 10 to 12 Indonesian domestic workers joined our Peranakan congregation worshipping with us every Sunday. By the grace of God, five were baptized. They served in our Peranakan choir and two served as worship leaders. !"#$%&'()'*+,-./0123"456 !"#$OM !"#$%&' ()*+,-( !"#$%&'()*+,-./0123'456 !"#$%&'()*+,#$-./01/23,4 !"#$%&'()*+,)-. !"#$%&'()*+,-./0123456./ !"#$%&'()*+,-./012345678 !"#$%&'()*+,-./%012j~êÖ~êÉí !!"#$%&'()*+,-./01234567 !"#$%&'()*+,- A Bible class is being held every Sunday after the Worship Service and presently, we are fortunate to have Miss Isabel Tong , our Indonesian student studying in T.T.C., on field training attached to our church to conduct the bible class. !"#$%&'()*%+,-#./(012345 !"#$%&'()*+,-.$/012345$6 !"#$%&' !"#$%&' !"#$%&' !"#$%&' !"#$%&' !"#$%&' !"#$%&' !"#$%& !"#$%&' !"#$%&' !"#$%&' Baptism by immersion for Indonesian worshipper. We pray that the Lord will open the way for more Indonesians to join our Peranakan Congregation and to serve Him eventually. Currently, we also conduct a baptism and membership class in Peranakan/ Indonesian led by our TRAC Peranakan Co-ordinator Mr. Jimmy Wong. By the grace of God, four of the Indonesian members opened their hearts to serve the Lord. With our church support, Miss Kalimah is now attached to PARI and is studying in Bogor, Indonesia. !"#$%&'( !"#$%&'()*+#,-./01*#2345 !"#$%&'()*+,-./0'1()23( !"#$%&'()*+,-./0123&'() !"#$%&'()*+,-./012345678 !"#$%&'()*+,- Visit to a Bible School in Batam. Baptism of Indonesian worshipper. The other two (also with our church support) will also be studying in Indonesia. Another Indonesian member, Miss Anah, is still looking at other colleges in Indonesia. PMC worshippers with Mr Johnny Chew. July Issue 2003 Pentecost TIMES 5 Introducing Our Church Leadership 2002/2003 Local Church Executive Committee Pastoral Team Rev Jonathan Seet Pastor-in-Charge [email protected] Joshua Loo Lay Executive Staff (Youth) [email protected] Pastor Dianna Khoo Assistant Pastor [email protected] Ho Hoe Sing Lay Executive Staff (Family Life / Counselling / Small Groups) [email protected] Jimmy Wong TRAC Peranakan Coordinator [email protected] Solomon Jesudasan Lay Executive Staff (Discipleship & Nurture / Missions) [email protected] Jen Yoke Lin Church Manager [email protected] Debby Lee Lay Executive Staff (Mandarin Ministry) [email protected] Tay Chee Khiam Lay Leader Patricia Khoo 1st Delegate to TRAC Josephine Poore Secretary Bruce Zee 2000 - 2003 6 Pentecost TIMES July Issue 2003 Laureen Ong Kevin Wee 2001 - 2004 Jenny Sim Recording Secretary, LCEC Judy Tay Church Treasurer Lim Boon Hooi Associate Lay Leader Irene Ang Associate Lay Leader Augustine Tay Associate Lay Leader Coordinator, Youth Ministry Josephine Poore Associate Lay Leader Pauline Tam President, WSCS David Liew Chairperson, Mandarin Outreach Catherine Tan Chairperson, Outreach & Social Concerns Alex Mah Chairperson, Finance Serene Wee Committee Member Kevin Ang Chairperson, Worship & Music Pang Chee Seng Paul Png Chairperson, Property Management Andrew Wong Chairperson, Mission Noel Tam Committee Member Nominations Committee Poh Leong Berg Christopher Tay Vice Chairperson, LCEC Sabrina Cher Administrator [email protected] Pastor-Parish Relations & Staff Committee Loo Choon Hiaw Chairperson Tay Chee Khiam Lay Leader Patricia Khoo Chairperson, LCEC Josephine Poore 2002 - 2005 Laureen Ong Elective Steward Sylvia Chan Chairperson, Hospitality & Information Dr Lee Liang Hin Honorary Steward Chia Chin Nam Chairperson, Discipleship & Nurture Johnny Chew Honorary Steward, Church Archivist & Coordinator, Peranakan Ministry Evelyn Lee Superintendent, Church School Tan Tiang Keng Chairperson, Witness & Evangelism Jenny Phuah Coordinator, Glowing Years Ministry Noel Tam Chairperson, Pentecost Methodist Church Kindergarten Poh Leong Berg Captain, Boys Bridgade Joy Lim Representative, Girls Bridgade July Issue 2003Pentecost TIMES 7 Women’s Society of Christian Service “ On either side of the river was there the tree of life, which bare twelve manner of fruits, and yielded her fruits every month: and the leaves of the tree were for the healing of the nations.” By Mrs Pauline Tam President, Pentecost WSCS Revelations 22:2 (King James Version) he Women’s Society of Christian Service (WSCS) in the Methodist Church of Singapore will, with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, fulfill its purpose: T * To h e l p w o m e n g r o w i n t h e knowledge and experience of God as revealed in Jesus Christ, *To make Christ known throughout the world, Our mission is to lead all women to God and we shall strive to share the abundant life of Christ with family, church and community because it is our belief that the tasks given to the Church cannot be accomplished unless women be given an opportunity to use their capacities to the full in every part of the Church life and be allowed to make their contribution to the interpretation of the Church’s message. The General Conference, Women’s Society of Christian Service (GCWSCS), which is a part of the World Federation of Methodist & Uniting Church Women (in special consultative status with the United Nations), is a fellowship of women who accept Jesus Christ as the revelation of God and the Saviour of mankind. GC-WSCS is a network of women from the CAC, ETAC and TRAC Annual Conferences to share their faith and “To Know Christ and Make Him Known.” 8 Pentecost TIMES July Issue 2003 The First Methodist Pastor in Singapore W Christmas carolling to the shut-ins. “To Know Christ and Make Him Known.” Our design calls us to infuse community and compassion into our relationships. Women will do this in various ways. Our strengths, temperaments, experiences, opportunities, life stages and interests will be factors in how we fulfill this design. The concept has application to us as individuals and it also gives definition to our corporate mission. If you are a woman in the Methodist Church and have never attended any of the WSCS activities, you are still part of us. Why? You are a woman in our church body who needs to be ministered to and needs to know that God can use you to minister to others. The Methodist Women’s Ministries of the GC-WSCS offer opportunities for every woman to share the abundant life of Christ with family, Church, schools and community. The GCWSCS will gather, train, equip and release all women into vital kingdom ministries, committing to the leading of the Holy Spirit and be always Goddriven. Thanks be to God! The TRAC WSCS Annual Conference in Malacca. He and his friends wanted to be there to see what an American was like as they have heard all kinds of stories about Americans. That evening, Taylor was not the speaker but Daniel O Fox, one of Taylor’s assistants, preached. The preaching was followed by many testimonies of evangelical conversion. One particular testimony had a hold on him and it was the testimony of the lady who would later become Mrs Marie Oldham. Oldham described his conversion at the evangelistic meeting: “For the first time in my life I had heard a distinct gospel statement, and for the first time, I was distinctly invited to choose God as Saviour and Friend. I cannot tell the gladness of my heart at the invitation. It seemed the only thing to do was to accept it quickly. The words were scarcely spoken when I was on my feet, and soon there were over twenty others with me. My companions sat holding their chairs, but apparently unwilling to rise. I was the youngest of all three, but I cared not at all. The preacher was again speaking. “Kneel down,” he said, “and tell God you want to leave your sins and find in Him your Saviour.” At once, we were on our knees, but I could not pray. It seemed as though the surge of the sea was in my ears and unspeakable but voiceless longing was in my heart. How long we were here I do not know. When I came to myself the minister was beside me. The people seemed to have ceased kneeling and were going out … By Rev Jonathan Seet Pastor-in-charge All the efforts the committee made in getting a missionary teacher from America failed. The Oldhams started a Methodist school in Bangalore in their own home which became the Baldwin School of Bangalore. This launch into education would continue to be his passion for the rest of his life. illiam Oldham was thirty years of age when he came to Singapore. He was born on 15 December 1854 in Bangalore, South India. His parents were Irish and Roman Catholics. His father, James Oldham, was a British Officer in the Indian Regiment. When he was a baby, his mother Mary Elizabeth Burling died, and he was left in the care of the servants (ayahs) in India. A missionary taught him to pray nightly, “O Lord, save me. O Lord Christ, convert me.”1 This he did for fifteen years almost religiously. At fifteen, he entered the Madras Christian College. After his graduation, he first worked as a teacher, then as an engineer doing a “trigonometrical survey” of India. As an engineer, he had to travel around the subcontinent and while in Poona, he fell very ill and this caused him to reexamine his life. He went to an evangelistic campaign wanting to listen to William Taylor who was in India at the invitation of James M Thoburn. *To challenge them to respond to God’s redemptive fellowship, *To develop a personal responsibility for the whole task of the Church. An Introduction to William Oldham An incidence that Oldham felt had great significance was William Taylor praying for him. He recalls, “One glad day, William Taylor, returning from Bombay, burst in upon us in our own home. In a few minutes, we were at our ease with him, and then he said, “Brothers, I would like to pray with you.” Immediately, we were on our knees and God’s great servant prayed for each in turn. He came to the youngest. That night (the next evening), I found my way to the class meeting. It has already opened when I entered. They were talking of their personal religious experiences. At last, my turn came, and the leader asked for my experience. I was embarrassed but managed to stammer out that I did not know anything about such matters, that I had been told to come by the minister who preached the night before, that I had had a very unhappy day; would they please help me to find my way to the Saviour I was speaking, but had not found? The class leader called the company to prayer at once. They all knelt around me. And oh! Such a chorus of earnest prayers as began to be spoken! … While they prayed, I somehow learned to pray for myself. The sacred fire that burned in them leaped to my poor heart, and I found myself saying, “Friends, I have found my Lord,” and I kept on using words that seemed given me, for they were strange to my ears even as I spoke them.”2 Oldham joined the Methodist church in Poona and there he met Marie Mullingan who would become his wife. In 1876, Oldham was licensed as a Local Preacher by the Poona Quarterly Conference. His next assignment was in Bangalore and before he went, he married Marie in order not to be separated from her. While in Bangalore, he found that the Methodist people had difficulty in looking for schools for the children because of the reputation of the Methodists. The Methodists were known for “their non-conformity with the worldly ways” and were seen as a lowgrade pietistic movement and were often made fun of. Oldham sat in a committee that was looking at starting a school for Methodist children to help them overcome these religious ‘persecutions’. “O God,” he said, “bless William O l d h a m . Te a c h h i m t o e n d u r e hardness as a good soldier of Jesus Christ, and teach him that he who hears must say come.” Instantly there was born in that young heart something like contempt for ease and self-indulgence. And there rested upon the young mind the beginning of a deep conviction that God wanted him to be separated as a witness-bearer.” This was a call to him and the passing on of the mantle of Taylor. Oldham decided to enter the ministry. In 1879, the Oldham left India to study in Alleghany College in Meadville, Pennsylvania (Thoburn’s Alma Mater) and was later joined by his wife. A year later, they transferred to Boston University where Oldham graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1883. Oldham joined the Missionary Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church while Marie spent a term at Mount Holyoke Seminary. On their return to India, “a stranger bishop whom we had never seen stepped in to order us nine days’ journey away to open a new work with a penny to pay expenses or to carry on with.” 3 The work was in Singapore! Oldham wrote: “I had prayed for some days that God would make me willing to go to any post in all India to which I might be sent, and I at last had reached a point where I felt, I was perfectly willing for any place in all this empire; but it never dawned upon my thoughts that they would shoot me clear through the empire, and fifteen hundred miles.”4 Oldham admitted in later years that he was initially disappointed with his appointment to Singapore. Before he left for Singapore, he was ordained as an elder on January 11, 1885. He July Issue 2003 Pentecost TIMES 9 would be so engulfed in his work in Singapore that he would neglect his health. In less than five years, he said that he was “reduced to a skeleton”. Coming Events Jul 12 Sat 1:00pm WSCS AGM & Cooking Class A cablegram from Thoburn, then his bishop in form as well as in fact, ordered his return to America. Oldham had never been or near to rebellion. Oldham’s response was: “It is very easy for us humans to imagine we are indispensable. But the habit of obedience conquered and I got ready to go in 36 hours.”5 Jul 19 Sat 4:00pm GYM/Peranakan Cultural Night Jul 26 Sat 2:30pm Seminar: “Parents as Primary Sex Educators” He left behind his prospering work and the unfulfilled dream of founding a Christian College in Singapore. He tried many times to return but his health would not permit it. Oldham was later elected as missionary Bishop to the work in South-East Asia where he visited his beloved work in Singapore and while there, he had a significant experience. Oldham was also elected to the Missionary Secretariat and also became the Methodist Bishop for South America. He died on March 27, 1937 in Los Angeles. The conservative and evangelical theological conviction of both the founding figures of Methodism in Singapore had a great influence on the Methodist theology in Singapore as they were the ones who decided who they wanted to bring to join them in the Methodist work in Singapore. The initial missionaries reinforced these theological stands. Having set the initial tone and theology, it was difficult for the later missionaries, some of whom were very liberal in theology, to go against this theological tide. Some of the local clergy, because of their training, became very liberal and progressive in theology but they were always viewed with suspicion by the conservative laity. This laity ensured and continued in the heritage of the founding missionaries and leading to a relatively conservative and evangelical theology in the Methodist Church. Footnotes 1 Oldham, WF, God Keeps, A Personal Testimony of Personal Experiences, New York, Christian Advocate, 1917, a series of six articles. (Oct 25, 1917 issue p1103) 2 Christian Advocate, Nov 1, 1917 issue, p1136 3 Oldham, Christian Advocate Nov 15 issue, p1202 4 Doraisamy, Theodore, Oldham Called of God, Singapore: Methodist Book Room, 1979, p27 5 Oldham, Christian Advocate Nov 15 issue, p1203. 10 Pentecost TIMES July Issue 2003 THE BOYS’ BRIGADE True Christian Men T Christian Education Classes Jul 27 Sun 1:30pm – 3:00pm Sodom & Gomorrah – Real Event? Aug 3 – 31 (Sun) 1:30pm – 3:00pm Responsible Bible Reading Sep 7 – 28 (Sun) 1:30pm – 3:00pm Old Testament Panorama Sep 13 – Nov 8 (Sat) 4:00pm – 5:30pm Masterlife 1 he Object of The Boys’ Brigade shall be the advancement of Christ’s Kingdom among Boys and the promotion of habits of obedience, reverence, discipline, self-respect, and all that tend towards true Christian manliness. Next Baptism & Membership Class Sep 13 – Nov 1 (Sat) 2:30pm – 5:30pm (English) Sep 21 – Nov 23 (Sun) 3:30pm – 4:30pm (Mandarin) Nov 16 Sun Adult Baptism (English) Nov 23 Sun Reception into Membership (English) Dec 14 Sun Baptism & Reception into Membership (Mandarin) Dec 25 Thu Infant Baptism (English & Mandarin) Highlights Aug 9 Church-wide Event – Amazin*G* Race - Racing: form teams to explore Singapore - Praising: reassemble @ PMC for praise & thanksgiving - Grazing: fellowship meal to round up Dec 10-13 T Company’s Vision E The BB aims to equip the Boys and Officers to enable them to contribute to the Company and make an impact in the lives of the Boys, in the family, brigade, district, community, church and school so as to make a Kingdom Difference. Church Camp Time of fun, bonding & learning together S T I M O N Goals of BB I A L S I come from a non-Christian family background, knowing nothing about Christ. However through the BB Christian Education (CE) programme and weekly devotions, Christ was introduced to me. In the beginning, I thought that Christianity was not my cup of tea but thank God, He did not give up on me. God revealed to me one very simple point, that He loves us all while we were yet sinners and that He came to die for our sins and not for our goodness. This led me to receive Christ into my life when I was in Sec 3. Through Sunday School and the CE programme, God helped me to grow in my faith and changed my values and character from an irresponsible and selfish person to a responsible and helpful person. WO Teo Teck Hui, NCO Council Chairman 2003 The BB has developed my character and moral values based on the teaching of Christ. I realised the importance of integrity, physical and mental endurance, and self-discipline. The company has given me the opportunity to lead the NCO Council over the last two years and that is where I began building up my self-confidence by leading a big group of Boys. Whenever I face problems, officers will always be there to give me advice and the Boys will be there to support me. Mr Ong Bang Shi, Officer Specifically, these Boys and Officers will build, develop and grow in character; be a loyal and responsible citizen; develop leadership potential; and promote physical fitness. The method of achieving these goals is by providing a meaningful and enjoyable Educational, Physical, S o c i a l , a n d Spiritual By Mr Poh Leong Berg Captain, The Boys’ Brigade. programme. Through the framework of ranks, uniform, drill and badges, the habits of discipline, self-respect, grooming, leadership and teamwork are developed in each Boy according to his needs and his capacity. Blessings The Lord has always been good and faithful towards the Company. He always encourages us with abundant blessing when the challenges are tough. He multiplied his blessings when we surrender all to Him. Such blessings have spurred the officers and the senior Boys to work harder and persevere in His Ministry, reaching out to the youth and sharing Christ with the Boys in Springfield Secondary School. Many fruits are being produced as we allow Him to be the vine and we the branches. Boys are coming to accept Christ as their Lord and Saviour, the average Boys’ attendance has increased to 45, the number of Officers serving has increased from 13 to 16, and various awards have been received. We see God’s bountiful blessings poured out to the Company as we allow Him to be our Shepherd and Captain. AREAS OF HELP NEEDED @ THE BOYS’ BRIGADE To share the Word of God to the Boys on Saturdays or at camps; To provide expertise in various activities such as First Aid, naturalist, camping, leadership skills & craft; To be mentors to Senior NCOs; To continue to pray and support us in whatever ways you can so that together we can help transform the Boys of today into leaders of tomorrow. A C H I E V E M E N T S JM Fraser Award for Excellence Silver — 2000 Gold — 2001 Gold — 2002 Founder’s Award 2 Boys — 2000/2001/2002 Senior Proficiency Star 6 Boys — 2000/2001/2002 National Drill Competition Silver — 2001 BB Week Silver — 2000 Silver — 2001 Gold — 2002 Highest Boy Collection — 2002 SP Chua Challenge Trophy — 2002 National Youth Achievement Award 8 Silver & 7 Bronze — 2000 7 Silver & 7 Bronze — 2002 BB AdventureQuest Competition 4th Position / Gold — 2002 (Boys’ Category) 2nd Position — 2002 (Officers’ Category) Goh Foundation (Wee Kim Wee) Gold Award 3 Boys — 2002 2 Boys — 2003 July Issue 2003 Pentecost TIMES 11 THE GIRLS’ BRIGADE Did You Know... id you know that the Girls’ Brigade started in PMC in 1966 as the 10th Singapore Company. However, due to poor enrolment the company went into recess in 1980 and the Company’s number was reassigned in 1996. D A New Beginning In 1998, a group of GB girls wanted to continue with the Brigade movement after leaving the 29th Company (Yumin Primary School). After seeking out various schools in the East, they found a willing partner in Springfield Secondary School, who was supportive of the Brigade movement and was even gracious to nurture girls from other schools. In 1999, they went on another search and found Pentecost Methodist Church who was willing to sponsor them. This marked the beginning of the 44th Singapore Company and PMC’s involvement in this life-transforming ministry. By Ms. Joy Lim What We Do The Programme of The Girls’ Brigade is concerned with the Spiritual, Physical, Educational and Social development of members. It is based on Luke 2:52 — “Jesus advanced in wisdom (educationally) and stature (physically) and in favour with God (spiritually) and man (socially).” Our weekly programme consists of devotions, drills, games and badgework. We conduct annual camps and outdoor activities such as ropes course and orienteering. To cater to the social needs, we have also organized outings and combined games day with PMC youths and the Boys’ Brigade. This year we celebrate our 5th anniversary with our theme “God is Good”. We want to give thanks and praise God for bringing more girls into our midst for us to share with them the good news of our Lord Jesus Christ. Our enrolment has grown substantially from 13 girls to 45 girls in the past five years and many of the girls come from non-Christian homes. It is our aim to “help girls become followers of the Lord Jesus Christ through reverence, self-control and a sense of responsibility to find true enrichment of life”. Thus we encourage members of PMC to volunteer their time to participate in this ministry. Be Part of This Ministry We invite you to partner with us in The Girls’ Brigade ministry. Your help can come in the form of short or long-term commitment in the following areas: * Leading in Devotions – A half an hour’s sharing from God’s Word. * Helping in Badgework – Over a span of two to five weeks, conduct lessons on specific topics in which materials or lesson plans are provided. In some instances, we teach the girls specific skills such as flower arrangement, social ettiquette, First Aid and canoeing. Each session per week is about 45 minutes. * Be chaperons for our outdoor activities. * Be a Volunteer Adult Leader (VAL). To find out more about GB, do come and talk to the girls and officers during our GB fortnight (13 July 03 to 26 July 03). We will be in church to share with you our GB experience. PMC @ Pasir Ris is committed to raising faithful disciples, caring for one another and reaching the community for Jesus Christ. Pastoral and Ministry Staff: • • • • • • Rev Jonathan Seet Pastor-in-Charge E-mail: [email protected] Pastor Dianna Khoo Assistant Pastor E-mail: [email protected] Mr Jimmy Wong TRAC Co-ordinator Peranakan Ministry E-mail: [email protected] Mrs Jen Yoke Lin Church Manager E-mail: [email protected] Mr Solomon Jesudasan Lay Executive Staff (Discipleship & Nurture/Missions ) Miss Debby Lee Lay Executive Staff (Mandarin Ministry) E-mail: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] Ho Hoe Sing Lay Executive Staff (Family Life/Counselling/Small Groups) E-mail: [email protected] Ms Sabrina Cher Administrator E-mail: [email protected] Joshua Loo Lay Executive Staff (Youth Ministry) E-mail: [email protected] • • •