Encouraged and blessed

What a great day we had last Friday and I am still thanking and praising the Lord for what my wife and I witnessed.

We had our usual Friday cell group meeting, but concluded the session a little earlier. At 11.30 a.m Captain Hary was here to take the group, eight of us to Kallang Bahru Centre. Lunch was all ready for us and we enjoyed lovely chicken rice upstairs.

I hold precious memories of this shop house. It was about 1975 when I as the General Secretary of the then Singapore/Malaysia Command, went to see some high ranking official at the National Council of Social Services at Penang Road and got the Council's support in obtaining special concession rent for this place from the Housing Board.

The Tamil Corps was held in the home of a Mrs. Samuel nearby at Kolom Ayer. The flats for PWD labourers in this area was about to be demolished, hence my search for a new location. The Officer Commanding at that time, Lieut. Colonel James Sloan and I discussed the matter of relocation and we came to the decision to rename the Corps to Kallang Baru Corps dropping the word 'Tamil.' So we started meetings in English in addition to Tamil. This attracted the non-Tamils to our meetings and we had a flourishing Corps with lots of activities during the week, like Joy Hour, Women's meetings, Youth meeting etc.

So it was a great joy for me to revisit this old estate. In recent years, activities were scaled down, but since Captain Hary took over, he saw the need in the area. He and his team of workers visited the people and today this place is used to the maximum, like tuition class, youth and yesterday we had a Chinese evangelistic meeting and fellowship. I gave the message in Hokkien.

Brothers Alvin and Tommy both were enrolled recently as soldiers of Balestier Corps. They led the meeting. They were contacted during the Captain's time. They are very enthusiastic and hope to commence Chinese meetings in Balestier to cater for the people in Whanpoa and Kim Keat Road area.

This and the Youth Centre a short distance away provide services for children, youth and the elderly.
Kallang Baru is a hive of activity, thanks to Captain Hary's vision, prayer, hard work plus the support of the Balestier comrades. To God be the glory.

Be big enough

Be big enough to live the life God gave you,
Untouched by petty selfishness and greed -
Stand free from foolish habits which enslave you,
Be big enough to meet your greatest need.

Be big enough to speak the truth - and live it,
Hold your ideals though the heavens fall -
Expect no quarter, yet be quick to give it-
Be big enough to heed the humblest call.

Be big enough to smile, when all about you,
Your very world lies crumbled in the dust -
Have courage to fight on when your friends doubt you,
Be big enough to keep your faith and trust.

Be big enough that changing years may find you,
Regretting not the ones you've left behind -
Be quick to throw off prejudice which binds you,
Be big enough to keep an open mind.

Be big enough to say 'I was mistaken,'
Be slow to take offence, quick to forgive -
Let pity, justice, love - in your heart waken,
Be big enough, and kind enough to live. Anonymous.

Like music to the ears

I heard the news on the radio - President of Indonesia Susilo Bambang Yudhoyono sends his apologies to Singapore and Malaysia. He takes responsibility and will act to solve the problem. The message sounds like music to the ears. What contrast to his ministers who have been pointing fingers at Singapore and Malaysia.

The skies went dark this afternoon and I heard the sound of thunder and to me, it was like music to the ears! Then the rains came, cool refreshing showers of blessing. What a beautiful sight  - falling rain showers of blessing from God Almighty. The Lord reigns!

There is music in the air. There is a song in my heart. Praise unto the Lord.

The birds upon the tree tops

Friday was the worst day for Singapore when the haze PSI went past the 400 mark. Saturday was still bad. But Sunday was much better and this morning Monday, it dropped to 50. We were able to go for our usual walk in the compound.

What a delight to watch the birds in the trees, fluttering around chirping or singing. The chorus which I leaned in Sunday School came to mind and I was singing it.

The birds upon the tree tops sing their song;
The angels chant their chorus all day long;
The flowers in the garden blend their hue,
So why shouldn’t I, why shouldn’t you praise Him too?

A verse of Scripture came to my mind.

 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? Matthew 6: 26

The Mercy Seat - Our Altar

The Mercy Seat

Walk into any Salvation Army Corps (Church) and you will notice in front of the platform is the Mercy Seat – our Altar. The Year Book describes it: “A bench provided as a place where people can kneel to pray, seeking salvation or sanctification, or making a special consecration to God’s will and service. The Mercy Seat is usually situated between the platform and the main area of Army halls as a focal point to remind all of God’s reconciling and redeeming presence.”

We use different names to describe the Mercy Seat – the Penitent Form or the Altar. Whatever name we use is precious to the Salvationist. 

The war was on- 1941/42. Japanese fighting planes were dropping bombs on targeted areas. Houses burning, people fleeing for refuge! The fall of Singapore was imminent. 

In the shadows of the evening, a group of young people in their teens made their way to the Army hall. Their eyes were focused on the Mercy Seat. All of them had at some time or other knelt at this same Mercy Seat to seek forgiveness for their sins, to seek healing, or to rededicate their lives to God. It meant much to them.

With their own pocket money they hired a small lorry. It waited outside the hall. Out came this group of youthful Salvationists carrying the wooden bench – their altar, the Mercy Seat. They placed it, plus Song Books and Bibles on to the lorry and it sped off.

When they got to their destination, other Salvationists were waiting with paint and brushes. They quickly painted over the words “TO THE UTTERMOST HE SAVES” There hidden away in someone’s home was the Mercy Seat. It remained unused for three and a half years. God bless the youth of The Salvation Army.

Fast forward to August 1945. The British returned to Singapore. Prison doors opened and our officers returned to the hall. The first thing they did was to have a thanksgiving meeting. Never mind there was no Army flag and no Mercy Seat. For to Salvationists they were mere symbols. They sang praises unto God and thanked Him for their deliverance from prison. They read the word of God and prayed.

Suddenly a lorry arrived and stopped outside the Army hall. Out rushed the youthful Salvationists their faces radiant with joy as they carried the Mercy Seat and placed it at its rightful place!

Missionary officers and locals hugged each other and danced for joy. There wasn’t a dry eye that day as they celebrated their freedom. At the conclusion of the meeting all knelt at the Mercy Seat to rededicate their lives to God. The Mercy Seat was wet with tears – tears of joy! Just picture the scene.

I know the story is true for it was told to me by those who were present in that meeting – Commissioners Frederick Harvey and W Stan Cottrill and Major Will A Price. All these officers who mentored me are now with the Lord in Heaven. What precious memories.

When the Training College was re-opened in January 1954, this same Mercy Seat was placed at the Training  College chapel at 207 Clemenceau Avenue.  A new text was written on it, “FAITHFUL IS HE THAT CALLETH YOU.”  It was a reminder that God who called us into the ministry would always remain faithful to us. The first four cadets of the Shepherds’ Session knelt at this Mercy Seat to sign their covenants. Subsequent sessions did the same. Praise God, He Who called us is always faithful. My wife and I formed 50 % of the cadets in this first session after the war. Next year we would have completed our 60 years of service as Salvation Army officers. We owe it all to God who called us to serve Him.

Today that same Mercy Seat is at THQ chapel at Bishan. Our brothers and sisters in Christ still use it.

In days long past the mercy seat

   Was made of purest gold;

‘Twas placed upon the sacred ark,

   Love’s meaning to unfold.

Within the holiest place God planned

  Redemption’s grace to show;

More sacred now is Calvary’s hill

  Where healing waters flow.

Thy blood, O Jesus, spotless Lamb

   Once lifted up to die,

Was shed to cleanse our fallen race

  And lead them to realms on high.

No one too sinful, or too low,

  Too desolate, too blind,

But here before the mercy seat

  Can full deliverance find.

O hallow now our mercy seat,

   Thou Son of God most high!

Here may the lame man leap for joy,

   The dumb sound joyful cry,

The sin-sick soul, though wearied sore,

   By evil power possessed,

The halt, the blind, the great, the small,

  Find peace from sins confessed.

We seek the healing of the Thy cross,

   The mercy of Thy grace;

Here at this sacred mercy seat

   May we behold Thy face;

Here may we glimpse Thy holiness,

   Here on our souls descend,

Here may we meet, and talk with Thee,

  Our Master and our friend.   (Doris N Rendell, SASB 590)

 

  

This is the my story - Philippines -81

81 – Philippines – Day of Arrival

We were up early on Friday 1^st June 1990 the day our appointment took effect in the Philippines. The General Secretary Lieut. Colonel William Banks and his wife Muriel took us to Kai Tak airport. A number of officers and staff from Headquarters were already there to say the final farewell to us. After the usual courtesies and final prayer with them, we made our way to the plane.

In slightly less than two hours the plane arrived at Manila airport but because of the bad weather and poor visibility it could not land immediately. It had to circle round the airport several times. We could sense the tense atmosphere among our fellow passengers and when the plane finally touched the ground there was loud applause – the plane had landed at last. The passengers breathed a sigh of relief – we arrived safely!

I believe this was a reminder from God that storms of life would beset us; Philippines would pose its own challenges like in every other appointment we had had so far. We need always to put our trust in Him. God does not promise us a journey without storms, but a safe landing. That message came loud and clear that morning.

We went through the usual immigration and customs procedures and made our way towards the exit. Wow! The crowds waiting to greet their friends and relatives! How pleased we were to see the Chief Secretary Lieut. Colonel Aguirre and the driver Nic Bagasol who was to prove a very loyal supporter throughout our term in the territory. We pushed our way through the crowds and eventually got to the car.

We were taken to the quarters at Pasay where we were to stay for the next three years. The Heads of Departments and their spouses were all there to meet us.  We shared merianda (snacks) and coffee/tea and after the introductions and usual courtesies, they left us to unpack and rest till the evening when Nic came again for us to take us for the welcome dinner at Newtown Hotel, not far from Territorial Headquarters. There we met Commissioner and Mrs. Bramwell Tillsley, territorial leaders from Southern Australian Territory who had come to install us on behalf of General Burrows.

The next day Saturday we had Officers’ Councils at Territorial Headquarters. There we were introduced to many more officers in the Division and representatives from other Divisions. As I had already visited Philippines a couple of times previously, it was a reunion for me, but for my wife it was her first visit to the territory. She could not accompany in my previous visits because of our special daughter Dora Poh Chin. Commissioner Tillsley an excellent exponent of the word of God, gave two messages on The Holy Spirit. It was a timely reminder of our need of God’s Spirit in our lives to empower us for service in His name.

The installation was held on Sunday afternoon at Manila Central Corps Hall. We were warmly welcomed by the comrades who garlanded us and hugged us. We had never received so many hugs in one day. Filipinos are very warm people and never shy of expressing their emotions. Of course, being shy Singaporeans of Chinese descent, it is not our nature to be so expressive. The Filipinos taught us some very invaluable lessons and the three years spent working with them truly blessed us. Looking back, I dare say, it was an appointment we could not do without! Each appointment prepares us for the next. That first meeting lasted three hours.

The country was named after Philip II of Spain who commissioned Ferdinand Magellan, the Portuguese explorer to look for land, spices and gold. He sailed east and discovered this archipelago. Philip took the name from the Bible – Philip the Evangelist (Acts 6 and 7.)

It is predominantly Roman Catholic. It was ruled by Spain for more than three centuries (1565 – 1893) The Americans occupied the country for five decades (1998-1946) The Japanese occupied the country from 1942- 1945) So the Filipinos are a unique people – they first acquired the Hispanic and Latin heritage and later the American heritage. They have had Chinese, Indian, Japanese and Arabian influence and quite cosmopolitan indeed. Filipinos are found all over the world today.

What a privilege it has been ours to work with these lovely people.

Haze affecting Singapore and Malaysia.

The whole island of Singapore  is shrouded in haze as pollution from forest fires in Indonesia's Sumatra island spreads to neighbouring countries. This afternoon I noted the PSI reached 172. AT 5 pm. it was 146.  It's terrible, we have to keep all our doors and windows shut. And it is so hot - life is getting unbearable. Over 100 is very unhealthy. It is a good thing it is school holiday time. But those working folk still have to travel.People still need to shop to buy groceries. People with heart and lung disease, the elderly and children are advised to "reduce prolonged or heavy outdoor exertion" even in moderate conditions.

I wanted to to out to buy groceries, but had to delay because of the haze. Haze or no haze, we have no choice but to go to the shop to get our groceries tomorrow.

"The hazy conditions are expected to persist for the next few days," the NEA reported. Malaysia is similarly affected.

Let's pray for rain. Let's pray that the Indonesian authorities will take responsibility to enforce their laws prohibiting the clearing of the forest areas by burning.

Delegation or off loading

To be a leader you need to learn the art of delegation. Moses was wearing himself out dealing with the people and their problems until his father in law gave him a lesson on delegation. Exodus 18: 1-27. Moses took the advice.

I'm afraid some people confuse delegation with off loading. I have worked with those who when given responsibility passes that on to someone else and forget about it.

First the leader needs to know his people; to appreciate the different gifts people possess.  Don't put square pegs in round holes.  Dixon E Hoste said this about delegation. "the capacity to appreciate the gifts of widely varying kinds of workers, and then to help them along the lines of their own personalities and workings, is the main quality of oversight in a nation such as ours."

I think it was General Eva Burrows who once said about delegation, "I take my hands off you, but keep my eyes on you." I may delegate, but I still have the responsibility as the leader to see that the job is done and I need to do all I can to empower and support you.

Our Lord has given us responsibilities to fulfil on this earth. He has given us His Spirit to come alongside us to help us. We are not alone in carrying out our responsibilities. He is with us all the time.

Following the leadings of God's Spirit

"My heart tells me..." so I go ahead and do it. Is it always safe to follow your heart? Is the heart a good guide always?

I speak from my own experience that at times my heart has made wrong decisions.  I need more than follow my heart; God has given me intellect, the power to think. So of course I have to use my heart, but I need to use my head as well.

My heart and my mind need to be in tune with the Lord. If not the heart and mind can lead us astray.
It is following Jesus by following the leading of His Spirit. Daily I need to examine my relationship with Him.

Prayer:
Dear Lord, thank You for the promise of Your presence. I am assured daily by your promise, "I am with you always." Thank You for being with me in my daily walk with You. In every situation I am able to turn to You. You understand my every situation more than anyone else however hard they may try. Lord, I've proved this from my own experience all these years of my discipleship. You have never let me down. I am in your hands.

The changes that come my way, I find it at times hard to cope. Grant me courage to deal with the changes that challenge me. If I am worried or fearful help me to focus on You and seek Your strength and guidance. I pray in the name of Jesus my Saviour and Lord. Amen

Father's Day

We live in a day of equal rights, equal time, it’s only fair that fathers get equal attention! Just over a month ago mothers were standing in the spotlight. Now ladies move over, men your turn!

Only in recent years have we in The Salvation Army observed Father’s Day although we have been celebrating Mother’s Day for many years. Here we follow the Americans by keeping the third Sunday in June. In Australia and New Zealand it is 15^th September. In the Roman Catholic tradition, Father’s Day is celebrated on St. Joseph’s Day 19^th March, though in most countries Father’s Day is a secular celebration.

Mrs. John B Dodd (Sonora Smart) of Washington first proposed the idea of Father’s Day in 1909. She wanted a special day to honour her father William Smart, a civil war veteran. His wife died when giving birth to her sixth child. Mr. Smart was left to bring up the six children by himself in a rural farm in eastern Washington State.

It was after her daughter Sonora became an adult that she realised the strength and selflessness of her father had in raising his children as a single parent. She was inspired by Anna Jarvis’ efforts to establish Mother’s Day. Mrs. Dodd originally suggested 5^th June the anniversary date of her father’s death. She did not provide the organisers with enough time to make arrangements, so the celebration was deferred to the third Sunday in June.

The first Father’s Day was observed on 19^th June 1910 in Spokane, Washington. At about the same time in various towns across America, others were celebrating ‘father’s day’ In 1924 President Calvin Coolidge supported the idea of a national Father’s Day. Finally in 1966, President Lyndon Johnson signed a presidential proclamation declaring third Sunday in June as Father’s Day.

Father’s Day has become a day to not only honour your father, but all men who act as a father figure – stepfathers, uncles, grandfathers and adult male friends are all honoured on Father’s Day.

For children, regardless of age, if you have parents honour them for the Bible tells us, ‘Honour your father and mother, for this is right.’ It accords with natural law. Every culture agrees that it is right and proper for children to respect and obey their parents. It is not only right in the eyes of society to honour our parents; it is also right in the eyes of God.

We thank our fathers for material provision (1 Tim. 5: 8) faithful instruction (Ephesians 6: 4) and godly influence (1 Cor. 11: 1). Fathers, seek the grace of God to live up to Biblical expectations.

I’m taking a rest, sit in the congregation at our own Corps (church) – William Booth Corps and just enjoy the meeting on Father’s Day. By the way, I believe there is a Grandparents; Day and it falls on 8^th September. I don’t think it is observed here in Singapore.

Sunday to me is important for it is the Lord’s Day! We respect our parents, but the One we truly worship is the Lord!  

General Linda Bond relinquishes office of General

Salvationists and friends were shocked to receive news that General Linda Bond has relinquished her responsibilities as General effective 13 June, the day of the announcement. She was in our territory visiting Myanmar and Singapore and we had a great time with her. There was no inkling that she would resign from her office as the International Leader. She explained that this decision had been made after prayer and reflection. We respect her decision and wish her God's richest blessing as she returns to her home in Canada.

The Chief of the Staff, Commissioner Andre Cox has taken over General's responsibilities in addtion to his own. He will now call the High Council which will elect the next General. Let us remember the Chief in our prayers.

Way back in 1994 when we were stationed at IHQ London, we had the resignation of General Bramwell Tillsley. It too shocked the Army world for he was General for less than two years. I recall the International Secretaries were called to Commissioner Earle Maxwell's office to be told the news. He was the Chief of the Staff at that time. We were then told to telephone all the Territorial Commanders and Officers Commanding in our respective zones.

So in the space of four years, I attended two High Councils at Sunbury Court to take part in the election of the General.

The Army wheel turns and we know God who raised up The Army is in control regardless who is the General.

Community - Fellowship of believers

Community is the place where we enter into the presence of each other and the Lord who called us there, as fully and totally as we do in the engagements with ourselves and God. It is a place that calls me to abandon myself to you, for in doing so I discover myself.  It is a place where I am available to you as I have learned to be with God and, because of my availability to you, I learn to be available to God. It is a place where I am totally present  to you, aware of your and listening to you with the totality of my being. It is a coming together because Christ has called us to be committed to him and to each other through his gift of koinonia.  William Clemmons, Discovering the Depth.

The blessings friends bring to us.

Yesterday we were out with a friend. We first met her at a funeral wake or vigil of a mutual friend. After I had given the message, she rushed out to me and introduced herself. She wanted to know what we were doing etc.  In course of conversation, I mentioned that my wife and I hold a cell group at our home every Friday. She asked if she could join us, although she belonged to another church.

So she has been coming to our group and has made good contribution. She was with us when we celebrated our 55 wedding anniversary. Yesterday she took us out for lunch and we had a wonderful time.

You know God sends people into our lives and she is one of those who has been of great blessing to us. And they all in their own way contribute to our well being.

Today  we were at Peacehaven Nursing Home and for lunch we joined the staff in a Poh Pia Party. I'm not much good in wrapping Poh Pia, in fact very clumsy, but there were friends very willing to help. We had a great time. God is good in bringing so many good friends into  our lives.

Thank God for friends!

The 18th Camel

The father left 17 camels as an asset for his three sons.

 

When the father passed away, his sons opened up the will.

 

The Will of the father stated that the eldest son should get half of 17 camels while the middle son should be given 1/3rd (one-third). The youngest son should be given 1/9th (one-ninth) of the 17 camels.

 

As it is not possible to divide 17 into half or 17 by 3 or 17 by 9, three sons started to fight with each other.

 

So, the three sons decided to go to a wise man. The wise man listened patiently about the Will. The wise man, after giving this thought, brought one camel of his own and added the same to 17. That increased the total to 18 camels.

 

Now, he started reading the deceased father’s will. Half of 18 = 9.

So he gave the eldest son 9 camels 1/3rd of 18 = 6.

So he gave the middle son 6 camels 1/9th of 18 = 2.

So he gave the youngest son 2 camels.

 

Now add this up: 9 plus 6 plus 2 is 17 and this leaves one camel, which the wise man took back.  

 

Moral :   The attitude of negotiation and problem solving is to find the 18th camel i.e. the common ground.

Once a person is able to find the common ground the issue is resolved.  

 

It is difficult at times. However, to reach a solution, the first step is to believe that there is a solution.

 

If we think that there is no solution, we won’t be able to reach any! …

 

Preaching at Eratchippu Corps

This morning after conducting our usual Sunday morning Adult Bible Class at William Booth Corps, I made my way to the basement to join in worship and preach at the Eratchippu Corps. The Corps Officers (pastors) are away in India for furlough. 

I arrived at 10.45 a.m., took off my shoes before entering the hall as is the custom with the Indians entering a place of worship. There was only one person in the Hall getting the place ready. I need not have rushed for the 11.00 a.m worship. Folk started to arrive at 11.25 a.m. and we began our worship at 11.30 a.m. half an hour late. We call it rubber time - stretchable!

Brother Manikam led the meeting all done in Tamil and I gave the message in English and he interpreted into Tamil.

In our multi racial society, our services are conducted in different languages. This is the only Tamil congregation in Singapore run by The Salvation Army.

Tamil work started before the war at Race Course Road and Major and Mrs. Abraham from India were the pioneers. They had a hard time in those days and were persecuted by fellow Indians in the area. However, they persevered and established the first Tamil Corps. Mrs. Abraham was promoted to Glory and her husband returned to India. War came and the Corps (church) closed down.

In i953 I was assisting Lieutenant Douglas Kiff as a Candidate Helper. He was the Corps Officer (pastor) at that time. I recall both of us went to visit Brother Sevanathan at Kolam Ayer. He was at that time attending Central Corps despite the fact he understood very little English.

The result was the commencement of an Outpost Sunday School at his home, a one room labourer's quarters. So every time we held a meeting, they had to move all the furniture - a couple of chairs and small table outside. The room would be packed. Meeting over they would move their furniture back into the one room unit. It was so simple yet we sensed the moving of the Spirit in both Adult and children's meetings.

Later on The Army changed venue and moved to the home of Mr. and Mrs. Samuel until the area was demolished to make way for  a new estate and highway. This was in the mid 1970's when I was then the General Secretary. I recall visiting the National Council of Social Services at Penang Lane and the Housing Board and arranged for the rental of a shop house at Kallang Bahru at special rate because we used it for community social services. This arrangement is still effective today.

Lieut. Colonel James Sloan a Canadian was the Officer Commanding. We discussed the matter and changed the name to Kallang Bahru Corps and Community Centre. This allowed us to attract people of other races. So we began English meetings at the same time retained the Tamil worship as well.

The Army attracted many young people and children besides catering for the Tamil folk formerly of Kolam Ayer. The location was good as it was in heartlands and there were and still are many people in need of The Army's services. The estate is old and there are many elderly folk living there now.

Since we retired in 1997 we have seen further changes. The Tamil congregation moved to Little India at Cuff Road and when that closed because of high rent, it moved to Balestier Corps. Somehow it did not work out and it moved to Bishan till finally it came to Praisehaven at Upper Bukit Timah Road. It uses the basement.

The English congregation amalgamated with Changi Corps. As retirees we were not involved in the planning or decision. The leadership had their own reasons for not having the Corps at Kallang Bahru, but our social services continue with the renting of an additional centre for youth.

At long last we have a Corps Officer of Balestier, Captain Hary who has the vision and drive to restart programmes that meet the spiritual needs of the people at the shophouse as well as the youth Centre nearby.  He has visited the people in the area and are connecting them with the Balestier Corps. Children and youth from Kallang are attending Balestier Corps.

The original Tamil Corps is now called Eratchippu Corps. We have a young couple, Lieutenants Dolly and Alwin from India appointed as Corps Officers. Interestingly the great grandson of Abraham is working in Singapore and he attends the meeting at Eratchippu.

I thank God for the privilege of ministering at Eratchippu.

Fellowship among believers

We hold a cell group at our home every Friday morning. We meet regularly every week for prayer, fellowship and study of the word. We normally begin with coffee or tea and some simple refreshments. Every now and then we would invite them to stay back for lunch, or go out as a group to have lunch somewhere.

On our 55th wedding anniversary, twelve of us went to North Border at Rochester Park to have our lunch of Texan American delights! This was to celebrate our Emerald Anniversary. We enjoyed the lovely meal and wonderful fellowship.

We've been blest by this group of like minded folk. We always begin with prayer. We believe we are in the presence of God, we cannot get out of His presence for He is omnipresent, but what we ask for is that we should be aware of His presence.

All are encouraged to express their opinion, even if that opinion is not shared by others. We learn to give each other a hearing. There is never any impatience, no one is ever made to feel he is a time waster. We all are prepared to listen to each other. There are times when we have to admit we are wrong after we have heard others speak.

We encourage each other. There is nothing in this world which will bring out the best in us as encouragement. To have that feeling that your group is with you, there are others value you lifts you up.

There is more than enough criticism in our society, let's encourage each other instead. And that's what we do in our cell group. We build each other up. Yes, we set aside every Friday for our cell group and it has been very rewarding, like we set aside every Tuesday for Peacehaven Nursing Home. We've been really blest by our brothers and sisters in Christ. God has blessed us mightily, let us share blessings with others.

Emerald wedding anniversary

Today is a special day for us. We have been married 55 years. We thank God for bringing us together and enabling us to love and serve Him and minister in His name. To Him be the glory.

We met at The Salvation Army Youth Group. In those days we called the members Torchbearers.
So we were Torchbearers.

Our grand daughter Cheryl has posted on Face Book the article written by Clarissa Oon of the Sunday Times under the captain "Oasis in the City" featuring the House of Tan Yoke Nee at the junction of Penang Road and Clemenceau Avenue.

We were married in this building on Saturday  7th June 1958. We lived there for a short while when I was pastoring the church at Martaban Road.

Then as a married couple we moved to Penang and served in West and East Malaysia for 10 years before returning to Singapore to run the Central Corps (church) for four years followed by administrative work till the end of 1982. In January 1983, we were transferred to Hong Kong.

In Hong Kong we celebrated our Silver Wedding Anniversary! Five years ago as retired officers we celebrated our Golden anniversary.

Now in our old age, we look back and thank the Lord for these 55 years together. There has been no regrets but praise and thanksgiving to God for blessing us all these years. Will we live to celebrate our Diamond Anniversary? Only God knows but whatever happens we know we are in His hands.

We thank our many friends, local and overseas who have sent us greetings and their best wishes. God has blessed us with three children and six grand children. God has been good to us.

Welcome - Lieut. Colonels Leopoldo and Evelyn Posadas

We attended the usual Thursday Prayer meeting at Territorial Hqrs this morning. We stayed on, visited Major Wasagam and her sister, chatted with some of the staff and then attended the Welcome meeting for Lieut. Colonels Leopoldo and Evelyn Posadas- the new Chief Secretary and Territorial Secretary for Women's Ministries.

We first came to know them when we were appointed to Philippines. They were Corps Officers at Camiling in the northern Division.

This morning they reminded me of the day when I as the Territorial Commander of the Philippines sent farewell orders to them and appointed them to Lebe in Mindadoa in the southern Division. This change was made at the recommendation of their immediate superiors - the Divisional Commander and Field Secretary. The reason for the change was to give them wider experience.

They requested me to rescind the appointment, They gave their reasons. I spent some time with this couple, explained to them the reasons for the change. For me to give in to their request would set a chain reaction in the territory. They should go to the new appointment and should difficulties arise, I would then consider my next step. I prayed with them and they went to their appointment as all good officers would do.

As leaders one has to use the heart as well as the head. I believe that was the right decision for them at that time.

This morning they expressed their gratitude for my understanding, counselling and prayer for them. That appointment turned out to be a fruitful appointment and brought them much blessing. They thanked me for the decision I took as their leader. No bad feelings, only appreciation for what we did and gratitude to God for His blessings.

What a joy it was for my wife and me to join the congregation to welcome them as our leaders in this territory. They have given excellent service in their home country as well as Bangladesh. They served in this difficult country for the last six years. God bless Paul and Evelyn. They are God's faithful servants.
T

With family and friends at Food Haven

We love to take friends to Food Haven - the staff canteen at Singapore Polytechnic, Dover Avenue.  The price is reasonable and the food good, the ambiance is nice and staff friendly.

Yesterday we took our good friends Commissioners Garth and Mel McKenzie there. We included our grandchildren and eight of us had a good time as we shared meal and fellowship together. We really enjoyed our time spent in fellowship and lunch.

The Commissioners were here to conduct the installation of our Territorial Leaders.

We first came to know the McKenzies when we visited New Zealand to conduct Brengle and Holiness convention in Wellington in 1988. Among the Corps (churches) visited was one pastored by our friends, the McKenzies. We can never forget their kindness to us.

The father of our current Territorial Commander, Colonel Lyndon Buckingham, Major Hilmon Buckingham who later became Commissioner was then the Training Principal. Our paths crossed again when they were stationed in Australia.

Thank God for friends who have brought so much blessing to our lives.

Celebrations with family and friends.

I recall when I was a child, once a year when it was my birthday according to the Lunar Calendar 25 day of the 4th moon, my mother would cook me a bowl of sweet noodles and two boiled eyes for me for breakfast. That was all the celebration according to the Teochew custom.  Birthday celebrations were organised for the elderly, not children!

The westerners and the modern generation in Singapore celebrate children's birthdays.

Our daughter and family celebrated my birthday at Jurong Point. We had a lovely meal with them. Sorry our eldest grandson could not be there as he was not feeling well after two weeks of doing audits at Kuala Lumpur. He fell ill and had to rush home. He works as an auditor with Ernst and Young.

Last Saturday, we had celebration with our son and family at a Japanese Restaurant at Riverview Hotel. This time the celebration was a combined one - our grand daughter Rachel's birthday and mine. We had a great time. We don't normally go to a Japanese restaurant so it was a nice change.

Earlier on I did mention that Peacehaven Nursing Home celebrated my birthday.

God has been good in giving us three children and six grandchildren.  Everyday we thank God for them and pray for them. And in Peacehaven a number of nurses address us as 'Grandpa and Grandma.'  The majority of them are from foreign countries - China, Philippines, Myanmar etc. have adopted us as their grandparents! How nice and we are always touched by their love.

We thank God for family and the extended family.

"Thank You Lord for all Your goodness;
Through years of yesteryear;
Thank You Lord for present mercies
And Your blessing on my way." August Ludwig Storm trs.by Flora Larsson.

This is my story - Hong Kong/Taiwan - 80

80 – Farewell Hong Kong and Taiwan

I have devoted 25 chapters to Hong Kong and Taiwan. A lot remains untold, but time is passing so quickly and I feel I should conclude my series with this chapter.

One evening whilst enjoying our dinner a call came from Commissioner William Rivers of International Headquarters. After enquiring about our welfare, he proceeded to tell us that General Eva Burrows, our international leader who was on tour at that time, had requested him to convey to us her intention for us to farewell from Hong Kong then added, “She is appointing you and your wife to the Philippines Territory – as the Territorial Commander and Territorial President of Women’s Organisations respectively. The change is to take effect on 1^st June 1990. You will receive the confirmation in writing in due course.”

We received the news with mixed feelings. We were sorry to leave the folk in Hong Kong and Taiwan; people we had grown to love. However as officers of The Salvation Army, we were committed to go where our leaders chose to send us without questioning. When we signed our covenant, we vowed that we would obey the lawful orders of our leaders.

It came as no surprise for we had already served more than seven years – the longest serving leaders in the Hong Kong/Taiwan Command. We were then informed that my General Secretary and Mrs. Lieut. Colonel Banks would be our successors.

In the period of our leadership we had seen many changes. Not only in Hong Kong have there been changes, there were also momentous changes in China. We were happy to hand over the Command to our General Secretary who had served with us for the last couple of years and had an understanding of the situation in Hong Kong. They had seen service in Japan, United Kingdom and South Africa. Their knowledge and experience in working in cross cultures would be of great benefit to Hong Kong and Taiwan.

The highlight during our term of office was the official opening of Command Headquarters. It was a thrilling and exhilarating experience. The presence of the Chicago Staff Band added colour to this momentous event in the history of The Army. Busy Nathan Road came to a halt while the band led the march of representative Salvationists all in full uniform from the old Headquarters at Nathan Road to the new Headquarters at Wing Sing Lane.  The Governor of Hong Kong Sir Edward Youde and the International Secretary for South Pacific and East Asia Commissioner William Cairns officiated. The latter prayed the dedicatory prayer and led the weekend’s meetings.

We give thanks to God for making it possible to re-open the Training College in the new building. There had been no training of cadets in Hong Kong for several years. Three cadets were sent to the Philippines for training during that period. We prayed hard and in 1984, we were able to welcome seven cadets to the ‘Proclaimers of the Gospel’ Session. What an answer to prayer and encouragement to our faith! At the same time, we were processing the papers of more cadets for the 1985-87 session.  We were pleased to have Captain Robert Paterson of Australia appointed as the Training Principal with Mrs. Captain Margaret Hay, a New Zealander as the Education Officer. Her husband Captain Laurence Hay was the Principal of William Booth Secondary School. Mrs. Captain Glenda Paterson was the Home Officer.

We then began our round of farewells throughout the Command of Hong Kong and Taiwan. Philippines Territory was not new to me for I had visited a couple of times before to conduct meetings. For my wife it would be a totally new experience.

The Command farewell meeting was held on Thursday 25^th May 1990 at the Kowloon Central Corps led by the General Secretary Lieut. Colonel William Banks. The meeting ended with the congregation singing “I’ll go in the strength of the Lord.” 

Then the final farewell was to our faithful dog, Rex a German shepherd. Lieut. Colonel Banks was not interested in having him; neither did Major Tan Thean Seng, the newly appointed General Secretary. In the end we offered it to our former neighbours Mr, and Mrs.Yue who were delighted to have him.

We were now ready to go. We closed another chapter of our lives, and moved forward to our next appointment – Philippines. We gave thanks to God for the privilege of serving the people of Hong Kong and Taiwan for the seven and half years. To God be the glory!

Intallation of Territorial Commanders

Sunday afternoon we attended the installation of our Territorial Leaders - Colonels Lyndon and Bronwyn Buckingham and also the welcome of new Chief Secretary Lieut. Colonel Leopoldo Posadas and Secretary for Women's Ministries Lieut.Colonel Evelyn Posadas.

Commissioners Garth and Mel McKenzie retired officers from New Zealand did the installation.

It was a very happy occasion. Never in the history of The Salvation Army have we seen so many New Zealanders gathered in an Army Hall at one time. The family of the Buckinghams came to witness the installation.
Wonderful celebration.