Every first and third Friday of the month, we host a Care Group for the off duty Indonesian nurses and Care givers at our home. The attendance vary - sometimes we have as many as 12, at other times two or three depending on how many get time off. Besides there are times when their friends and relatives come from Indonesian to visit them and they have to go sight seeing or shopping.
We enjoy their visit to our home. We have time for fellowship, singing, prayer, a short devotion and supper. Our daughter and her husband visit Batam Indonesia and she brings home Indonesian "kueh lapis" meaning "layer cake" made from local or imported ingredients, imported butter from Australia or New Zealand and egg yoke and even dried fruit added. The Indonesians enjoy them, but we refrain because of the high cholesterol content!
These Indonesians attend our Corps (church) services and participate in the various activities.
We moved to Changi from Upper Bukit Timah one and a half years ago. That was the time, the majority of Indonesians, more than twenty came at the same time. We were requested to host these for three months and help them to settle down. The three months have extended to one and a half years. We'll carry on as long as they desire to come. We take it as the ministry God has given us.
"Therefore, whenever we have the opportunity, we should do good to everyone--especially to those in the family of faith". Galatians 6: 10 (New Living Translation)
Showing posts with label ministry. Show all posts
Showing posts with label ministry. Show all posts
Saturday, July 2, 2016
Saturday, May 7, 2016
Visit to Batam, Indonesia - 30th April - 2nd May 2016
At our age, we are somewhat reluctant to leave the comfort of our own home and go to another country. In our life time, we had travelled much especially during the last four years as the International Secretary for South Pacific and East Asia prior to retirement. Altogether, we had visited 26 countries and lived in six during our active officership.
Anyway, we responded positively to an invitation to join a group to visit Batam, Indonesia. They Army has started work on this island. So on 30th April, Madam Low Mui Lang, Ivoine Tang, Helen Ho, my wife and myself formed the group.
We left on Saturday and spent the weekend there. Monday being Labour Day was a public holiday in Singapore. The ferry was crowded, but we got there safely. We were warmly welcomed by the officers and taken to one of the Outposts where we had the welcome meal given by the hospitable Indonesians.
We went to our Hotel some distance away - Hotel Punuin. We had a good night's sleep and woke up early to have breakfast. We attended the Sunday morning meeting at the Outpost. I was asked to give my testimony. I complied and spoke in Malay which is similar to Indonesians. Madam Low also testified.
It was a good meeting conducted by the Corps Officers - the wife led and husband gave the message in Indonesian. He kept on emphasizing on our One Army, One Mission that is to proclaim the message of Jesus Christ. After the meeting, we were treated to a lovely lunch provided by Indonesian salvationists. They came from different parts of the country as far as Jakarta and Palu.
That evening we were taken to another Outpost. The officers informed us that they hope to purchase the adjoining land and build our church. The building was made of wood and zinc, very simple structure. The attendance was good. My wife was asked to give her testimony. This time Captain Eko Wandono led the meeting and his wife gave a powerful message.
In between meetings were able to tour the island.
By the time we got back to the hotel it was quite late, We had to be up very early at 5-00 am. and left the hotel at 5.30 a.m. without breakfast. The van took us to the harbour where we boarded the 7.20 a.m. ferry for home.
Well the best part of the roaming is the homing. We had a lovely weekend, Praise be to God.
Anyway, we responded positively to an invitation to join a group to visit Batam, Indonesia. They Army has started work on this island. So on 30th April, Madam Low Mui Lang, Ivoine Tang, Helen Ho, my wife and myself formed the group.
We left on Saturday and spent the weekend there. Monday being Labour Day was a public holiday in Singapore. The ferry was crowded, but we got there safely. We were warmly welcomed by the officers and taken to one of the Outposts where we had the welcome meal given by the hospitable Indonesians.
We went to our Hotel some distance away - Hotel Punuin. We had a good night's sleep and woke up early to have breakfast. We attended the Sunday morning meeting at the Outpost. I was asked to give my testimony. I complied and spoke in Malay which is similar to Indonesians. Madam Low also testified.
It was a good meeting conducted by the Corps Officers - the wife led and husband gave the message in Indonesian. He kept on emphasizing on our One Army, One Mission that is to proclaim the message of Jesus Christ. After the meeting, we were treated to a lovely lunch provided by Indonesian salvationists. They came from different parts of the country as far as Jakarta and Palu.
That evening we were taken to another Outpost. The officers informed us that they hope to purchase the adjoining land and build our church. The building was made of wood and zinc, very simple structure. The attendance was good. My wife was asked to give her testimony. This time Captain Eko Wandono led the meeting and his wife gave a powerful message.
In between meetings were able to tour the island.
By the time we got back to the hotel it was quite late, We had to be up very early at 5-00 am. and left the hotel at 5.30 a.m. without breakfast. The van took us to the harbour where we boarded the 7.20 a.m. ferry for home.
Well the best part of the roaming is the homing. We had a lovely weekend, Praise be to God.
Sunday, March 8, 2015
Privileges of ministry
We have been living in Changi since 16 December last year, almost three months. How fast time flies! The speed of time increases as we get older. By the end of May I shall be 83 that's past the average life span for Singaporeans! I do enjoy life and still find fulfilment in ministry.
We are able to visit our special daughter every day and let her have her bottle of Vitagen or Yakult. She enjoys this. The question is often posed to us, "Does she know or recognise you?" Well we don't know as she cannot indicate, but I believe in her own way she knows God and she is in communication with the Almighty. We always pray a simple prayer with her and commit her to Him.
Sometimes we sing to her songs like "Gentle Jesus meek and mild, Look upon a little child" or "Jesus loves me, this I know."
We still have a ministry here at the Corps (church) and Peacehaven. Every alternate Wednesday evening we have a fellowship meeting with the Indonesian nurses. They are the newest lot of nurses at the Home and we have been asked to specially care for them. All of them are from Palu Salvation Army Academy of Nursing.
We start the evening with singing. They love singing from the Salvation Army Song Book in both English and Indonesian. We are brushing up our Bahasa Melayu which is similar to Indonesian. We do not get the same nurses each week because of rotation of duties. These nurses are good support to the Corps. We have been much blessed by these new nurses.
Of course we do meet with the other nurses as well. The Home has nurses from Philippines, Myarmar, China, India, Malaysia and of course Singapore.
We have been retired close to 18 years but there is no retirement from ministry. Thank God there are always opportunity for ministry.
We are able to visit our special daughter every day and let her have her bottle of Vitagen or Yakult. She enjoys this. The question is often posed to us, "Does she know or recognise you?" Well we don't know as she cannot indicate, but I believe in her own way she knows God and she is in communication with the Almighty. We always pray a simple prayer with her and commit her to Him.
Sometimes we sing to her songs like "Gentle Jesus meek and mild, Look upon a little child" or "Jesus loves me, this I know."
We still have a ministry here at the Corps (church) and Peacehaven. Every alternate Wednesday evening we have a fellowship meeting with the Indonesian nurses. They are the newest lot of nurses at the Home and we have been asked to specially care for them. All of them are from Palu Salvation Army Academy of Nursing.
We start the evening with singing. They love singing from the Salvation Army Song Book in both English and Indonesian. We are brushing up our Bahasa Melayu which is similar to Indonesian. We do not get the same nurses each week because of rotation of duties. These nurses are good support to the Corps. We have been much blessed by these new nurses.
Of course we do meet with the other nurses as well. The Home has nurses from Philippines, Myarmar, China, India, Malaysia and of course Singapore.
We have been retired close to 18 years but there is no retirement from ministry. Thank God there are always opportunity for ministry.
Monday, January 26, 2015
Engaging in ministry.
We've been retired for 17 and half years. I am not involved in any administration; we won't be able to cope, not at our age.
However, I continue to preach the word for this my calling. Ministry never ends while we still are alive and well able to manage.
I was privileged to be invited to speak at Central Corps on 18th in the absence of the Corps Officers (pastors) now on furlough in New Zealand. They gave me the topic to preach "At the name of Jesus there is freedom for the disciple."
The church was quite full and it was good to meet a number of old friends. But more than half the people in the congregation were new to us. In one sense we were disappointed that some of our friends have left the church and gone elsewhere - to other churches, or still church hopping and shopping for a place to belong as it seems to be the culture of this generation. Well there may be reasons and it is not for me to judge.
In another sense, we were happy The Army is reaching out to new people. We don't want to be a holy club where we meet for fellowship without outreach. New people are being contacted and many have found the Lord. We give God the glory.
Yesterday, it was my turn to give the message at Changi Corps, the church we now belong. Even in the short period of just over a month we have seen growth. Again the new pastors had chosen the theme "Shine for Jesus" for the month. Jesus is the Light of the world, and we as His followers are reflect that light. The message was based on Philippians 2: 1-18.
I have committed myself to preach once a month for the first six months. By then the pastors would have completed their training and commissioned and ordained as Salvation Army officers. It is quite unusual to have them in charge of the church before their commissioning and ordination. It has been tough for this lovely couple with a child - to pastor a church and to still attend classes.
I am very impressed with their commitment. They spend a lot of time visiting the folk and trying to bring the lost sheep back to the fold.
We thank God in retirement we can still in a small way contribute to our church and it is our daily prayer that the Lord will continue to give us grace and strength for service.
However, I continue to preach the word for this my calling. Ministry never ends while we still are alive and well able to manage.
I was privileged to be invited to speak at Central Corps on 18th in the absence of the Corps Officers (pastors) now on furlough in New Zealand. They gave me the topic to preach "At the name of Jesus there is freedom for the disciple."
The church was quite full and it was good to meet a number of old friends. But more than half the people in the congregation were new to us. In one sense we were disappointed that some of our friends have left the church and gone elsewhere - to other churches, or still church hopping and shopping for a place to belong as it seems to be the culture of this generation. Well there may be reasons and it is not for me to judge.
In another sense, we were happy The Army is reaching out to new people. We don't want to be a holy club where we meet for fellowship without outreach. New people are being contacted and many have found the Lord. We give God the glory.
Yesterday, it was my turn to give the message at Changi Corps, the church we now belong. Even in the short period of just over a month we have seen growth. Again the new pastors had chosen the theme "Shine for Jesus" for the month. Jesus is the Light of the world, and we as His followers are reflect that light. The message was based on Philippians 2: 1-18.
I have committed myself to preach once a month for the first six months. By then the pastors would have completed their training and commissioned and ordained as Salvation Army officers. It is quite unusual to have them in charge of the church before their commissioning and ordination. It has been tough for this lovely couple with a child - to pastor a church and to still attend classes.
I am very impressed with their commitment. They spend a lot of time visiting the folk and trying to bring the lost sheep back to the fold.
We thank God in retirement we can still in a small way contribute to our church and it is our daily prayer that the Lord will continue to give us grace and strength for service.
Monday, October 20, 2014
Visited an elderly salvationist
Last Saturday we were invited to the birthday party of an old friend, 96 years old! She is a Salvationist but no Corps Officer has visited her for the last three years. Pastoral visitation is not a priority with our Corps Officers (pastors) any more, it seems to me.
Her children's pastor now visits her once a month to give her communion, read the Bible and pray with her. Thank God for those who care. God bless them.
Our Lord told the parable of the lost sheep. The shepherd leaves the 99 safely in the fold to seek and save the lost sheep.
Peter challenges his fellow elders to "shepherd the flock of God among you" by "exercising oversight" (1 Peter 5:2.) God entrusts them with the authority and responsibility of leading the flock. Pastors are accountable for how they lead, and the flock for how they follow (Heb 13:17)
Besides teaching, the pastor exercises oversight of the flock by the example of his life. Being a pastor requires getting in among the sheep. It is not leadership from above so much as leadership from within. An effective pastor does not herd his sheep from the rear but leads them from the front. They see him and imitate his actions.
Her children's pastor now visits her once a month to give her communion, read the Bible and pray with her. Thank God for those who care. God bless them.
Our Lord told the parable of the lost sheep. The shepherd leaves the 99 safely in the fold to seek and save the lost sheep.
Peter challenges his fellow elders to "shepherd the flock of God among you" by "exercising oversight" (1 Peter 5:2.) God entrusts them with the authority and responsibility of leading the flock. Pastors are accountable for how they lead, and the flock for how they follow (Heb 13:17)
Besides teaching, the pastor exercises oversight of the flock by the example of his life. Being a pastor requires getting in among the sheep. It is not leadership from above so much as leadership from within. An effective pastor does not herd his sheep from the rear but leads them from the front. They see him and imitate his actions.
Friday, October 17, 2014
Friday, January 3, 2014
Caring ministry of the church
New Year Day. We spent time with two elderly handicapped women whom we have known for well over sixty years. They live in a two bedroom HDB flat at Dover. They both share one room the other is rented out to bring in some income. We always visit them about Christmas time, Chinese New Year and close to their birthdays to celebrate and pray with them.
Many years ago they used to attend the Salvation Army, but in recent years worship at Faith Community Baptist church which provides transport for them on Sundays and attendance at other activities. Good to hear of our involvement in the church cell group.
The neighbourhood Anglican Church of St John and St. Margaret blesses the residents in the area, so our friends benefit from their Christian ministry.
Thank God for the ministry of the church in caring for the people - especially the poor and needy.
Many years ago they used to attend the Salvation Army, but in recent years worship at Faith Community Baptist church which provides transport for them on Sundays and attendance at other activities. Good to hear of our involvement in the church cell group.
The neighbourhood Anglican Church of St John and St. Margaret blesses the residents in the area, so our friends benefit from their Christian ministry.
Thank God for the ministry of the church in caring for the people - especially the poor and needy.
Tuesday, December 31, 2013
Ministering in the name of our Lord
Yesterday, we visited a saintly elderly lady of 95, a lovely Christian. She is mentally alert, but physically frail. She is either in bed or in a wheel chair. We went there to sing and pray with her. We were there to bless her, but in turn were greatly blessed.
The journey takes more than an hour each way on the bus.On the way home we had planned to visit two handicapped women at Dover Road but it was getting late and raining too, so we had to change our plans to return home. We shall make it another day.
People need the Lord. We thank Him daily for grace and strength to try to meet human needs.
Prayer:
Lord thank you, I can hear everyday sounds; music and the voices of friends and loved ones. I can tune on to the radio or television, hold a conversation, There are many who are not so privileged. Help me to be considerate to the deaf; kind to the one suffering from memory loss, and grant me the wisdom to minister to those who feel isolated. Except I am moved with compassion, how dwells Your Spirit in me. Lord fill me this very hour.
The journey takes more than an hour each way on the bus.On the way home we had planned to visit two handicapped women at Dover Road but it was getting late and raining too, so we had to change our plans to return home. We shall make it another day.
People need the Lord. We thank Him daily for grace and strength to try to meet human needs.
Prayer:
Lord thank you, I can hear everyday sounds; music and the voices of friends and loved ones. I can tune on to the radio or television, hold a conversation, There are many who are not so privileged. Help me to be considerate to the deaf; kind to the one suffering from memory loss, and grant me the wisdom to minister to those who feel isolated. Except I am moved with compassion, how dwells Your Spirit in me. Lord fill me this very hour.
Saturday, December 21, 2013
Kallang Ministry to the Elderly
Yesterday we were invited by Captain Hary to join in the celebrations at Kallang Outpost. I was the speaker for the Fellowship for the Elderly. Two Salvationists Alwin and Tommy led the singing in Chinese, singing Hokkien and Mandarin songs. Alwin is a taxi driver but gives his Friday afternoon ministering at Kallang. Tommy used to run his own pizza business. He sold it and now concentrates on his family and ministry. They are lovely Christians who give of themselves to the Lord's work. I believe God sent them to help Captain Hary in reaching out to the folk in Kallang.
Normally Alwin translates for Captain Hary, but yesterday, I gave the Christmas message in Hokkien without using and interpreter.
My wife and I had a great time and we thank Him for health and strength to continue in ministry.
Normally Alwin translates for Captain Hary, but yesterday, I gave the Christmas message in Hokkien without using and interpreter.
My wife and I had a great time and we thank Him for health and strength to continue in ministry.
Tuesday, October 22, 2013
Mr. Goh Seow Kiang
We have a number of close friends among the elderly; sadly the number is diminishing. Age catches up with all of us – there is a time to be born and time to leave this earth.
While we still have the strength and the means to get around, we do try to keep contact with friends. There is nothing like a personal visit for these elderly folk.
Another of our good friends, Mr. Goh Seow Kiang age 94 is now warded in hospital. He came from China to Penang, Malaya where he first met The Salvation Army. He became a Salvationist in those early pioneering days.
During the Japanese occupation he moved to Singapore. When The Salvation Army recommenced operations in 1945, he joined Singapore Central Corps at 30 Oxley Road.
He has been faithfully worshipping at the Central Corps all these years.
We recall making monthly pastoral visits to his home at Tanglin Halt when were pastors of the church from 1970-1974 and spent many hours of fellowship with him and his family. His four children attended Sunday School for years, but later left the Army. Today only the eldest unmarried daughter Christina is with the Army.
In retirement we visit the family from time to time and when Mrs. Goh was very ill in hospital she accepted Christ.That was in the late 1990's. She had a Salvation Army funeral.
Mr. Goh spends most of his time with his youngest daughter Karen and family. They belong to Fairfield Methodist. They live just across the road from where we are, so I am able to visit him from time to time.
Yesterday I was able to spend some time with him at the National University Hospital. We thank God for the opportunity to minister to folk like Mr. Goh and others who are sick.
I’ve been reflecting on the words of Jesus recorded in the Gospel of Matthew when He said, “I was sick and you visited me.” When we do it to someone, we are doing it unto the Lord.
While we still have the strength and the means to get around, we do try to keep contact with friends. There is nothing like a personal visit for these elderly folk.
Another of our good friends, Mr. Goh Seow Kiang age 94 is now warded in hospital. He came from China to Penang, Malaya where he first met The Salvation Army. He became a Salvationist in those early pioneering days.
During the Japanese occupation he moved to Singapore. When The Salvation Army recommenced operations in 1945, he joined Singapore Central Corps at 30 Oxley Road.
He has been faithfully worshipping at the Central Corps all these years.
We recall making monthly pastoral visits to his home at Tanglin Halt when were pastors of the church from 1970-1974 and spent many hours of fellowship with him and his family. His four children attended Sunday School for years, but later left the Army. Today only the eldest unmarried daughter Christina is with the Army.
In retirement we visit the family from time to time and when Mrs. Goh was very ill in hospital she accepted Christ.That was in the late 1990's. She had a Salvation Army funeral.
Mr. Goh spends most of his time with his youngest daughter Karen and family. They belong to Fairfield Methodist. They live just across the road from where we are, so I am able to visit him from time to time.
Yesterday I was able to spend some time with him at the National University Hospital. We thank God for the opportunity to minister to folk like Mr. Goh and others who are sick.
I’ve been reflecting on the words of Jesus recorded in the Gospel of Matthew when He said, “I was sick and you visited me.” When we do it to someone, we are doing it unto the Lord.
Friday, September 14, 2012
Great time at Kallang
Captain Hary came for us at 12 noon today and took us to Kallang Baru. First we went to the Food Centre to have our lunch. The food was good and we enjoyed the meal. Good to visit the old familiar places. Then we made our way to the hall for our meeting with the elderly.
There must be about 35 elderly folk or more in the hall. The singing was led by Tommy and Jessica and later joined by a taxi driver Alvin. They sang Hokkien songs - how well they sang, clapped their hands and did the actions. It was like the old style Salvation Army meeting. It was a real time of rejoicing and praising the Lord.
At the request of Captain, I gave my testimony in Hokkien and my wife gave hers in Cantonese. The congregation listened very attentively. It was most encouraging to speak to such a responsive congregation.
Kallang is the outpost of Balestier Corps. When Captain Hary took over there was some work with the youth and children, but nothing much. It has been hard work for him, but he has been well supported by the comrades of Balestier. The results are now evident.
He and his team surveyed the area and found there were a many elderly people living alone. So after much visitation, he has got this group of elderly coming every Friday for fellowship. He is reaching them with the gospel.
The work in Kallang is once again growing - youth centre, children receiving tuition and now elderly.
We were truly blessed this afternoon. Thank God for the privilege of sharing fellowship and the gospel with the folk.
There must be about 35 elderly folk or more in the hall. The singing was led by Tommy and Jessica and later joined by a taxi driver Alvin. They sang Hokkien songs - how well they sang, clapped their hands and did the actions. It was like the old style Salvation Army meeting. It was a real time of rejoicing and praising the Lord.
At the request of Captain, I gave my testimony in Hokkien and my wife gave hers in Cantonese. The congregation listened very attentively. It was most encouraging to speak to such a responsive congregation.
Kallang is the outpost of Balestier Corps. When Captain Hary took over there was some work with the youth and children, but nothing much. It has been hard work for him, but he has been well supported by the comrades of Balestier. The results are now evident.
He and his team surveyed the area and found there were a many elderly people living alone. So after much visitation, he has got this group of elderly coming every Friday for fellowship. He is reaching them with the gospel.
The work in Kallang is once again growing - youth centre, children receiving tuition and now elderly.
We were truly blessed this afternoon. Thank God for the privilege of sharing fellowship and the gospel with the folk.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Pastoral visit to the elderly
"This is the day that the Lord has made." Everyday I wake up I thank God for giving me yet another day - yes a bonus! I am not accountable to anyone, except to God for how I spend my time. I pray each day that I be giving the wisdom to spend time wisely. We must value time. Gladstone once said, "Believe me when I tell you that thrift of time will repay you in after life with a usury of profit beyond your most sanguine dreams, and that the waste of it will make you dwindle, alike in intellectual and moral stature, beyond your darkest reckonings."
I am called to be a pastor and evangelist. The word of God is still burning in the bones. Thank God for the opportunities that still come my way.
What a joy it was to visit a number of elderly housebound folk! We visited three people this week - two in their nineties and one in her eighties. It was time well spent in the Lord's service. We were truly blessed as we listened to their testimonies the way God has blessed them. We went to minister but in term were being ministered.
Visiting the sick and the lonely, serving the church, participating in various activities play an important part in Christian service for retirees like us. Every servant of the Lord should have the satisfaction of knowing his labour is directed to the well being of the community.
I am called to be a pastor and evangelist. The word of God is still burning in the bones. Thank God for the opportunities that still come my way.
What a joy it was to visit a number of elderly housebound folk! We visited three people this week - two in their nineties and one in her eighties. It was time well spent in the Lord's service. We were truly blessed as we listened to their testimonies the way God has blessed them. We went to minister but in term were being ministered.
Visiting the sick and the lonely, serving the church, participating in various activities play an important part in Christian service for retirees like us. Every servant of the Lord should have the satisfaction of knowing his labour is directed to the well being of the community.
Wednesday, May 9, 2012
Pastoral Visitation
"Wide was his parish, with houses far asunder,
Yet he neglected not in rain or thunder,
In sickness, or in trouble, to pay call
On the remotest whether great or small
Upon his feet, and in his hand a stave." Chaucer: Prologue to Canterbury Tales.
I wonder how many people these days remember the poem. Chaucer speaks to those living in a society quite different from ours. Certainly this is not Singapore, a bustling city without a country.
I wonder how my pastors, parsons, ministers of the gospel, priests or Salvation Army Officers still pay pastoral visits to their flock? In my time as a Corps Officer, or pastor, it was mandatory to clock in a minimum of eighteen hours a week, that's three hours a day, not counting Sunday! Has the rule been rescinded? I don't know. ( I hear someone saying, "you and your good old days again.")
I appreciate a ministry well suited to the past century, or mainly to a rural or agricultural country, may not be practical in our urbanised society, the world we live in today. We do need to adapt to the changing world. A pastor who does not want to do pastoral visitation can always find excuses or arguments to support him. I am certain there are still needs to be met and ways and means to connect with our people.
There are many housebound elderly and sick people who desperately long for the pastor to visit. This last week we must have done our eighteen hours, not that anyone is calling us to account for our time. As retirees we are accountable only to God. We visit not to fill our pews, or to ensure tithes are received for the church. We are not here to prop up the institutional church by seeking help to support this or that project. Or to meet the church budget!
We do for one reason. We follow the footsteps of the Good Shepherd who gave His life for His sheep. Yesterday it took us three hours on buses, travelling time to visit a ninety four year lady. It was worth the time spent when we think what this visit meant to this saintly Christian living alone.
That's why we still visit our Salvation Army Nursing Home once a week to do chapel service and to go round visiting the residents. The nurses need words of encouragment too. The majority are from overseas - Phillipines, China, Myanmar, India and they do miss their families. Singaporeans form the minority. By God's grace, we will carry on with this pastoral ministry for residents and staff.
Help us to help each other, Lord,
Each other's cross to share;
Let each our friendly aid afford
And feel each other's care. -Charles Wesley
Yet he neglected not in rain or thunder,
In sickness, or in trouble, to pay call
On the remotest whether great or small
Upon his feet, and in his hand a stave." Chaucer: Prologue to Canterbury Tales.
I wonder how many people these days remember the poem. Chaucer speaks to those living in a society quite different from ours. Certainly this is not Singapore, a bustling city without a country.
I wonder how my pastors, parsons, ministers of the gospel, priests or Salvation Army Officers still pay pastoral visits to their flock? In my time as a Corps Officer, or pastor, it was mandatory to clock in a minimum of eighteen hours a week, that's three hours a day, not counting Sunday! Has the rule been rescinded? I don't know. ( I hear someone saying, "you and your good old days again.")
I appreciate a ministry well suited to the past century, or mainly to a rural or agricultural country, may not be practical in our urbanised society, the world we live in today. We do need to adapt to the changing world. A pastor who does not want to do pastoral visitation can always find excuses or arguments to support him. I am certain there are still needs to be met and ways and means to connect with our people.
There are many housebound elderly and sick people who desperately long for the pastor to visit. This last week we must have done our eighteen hours, not that anyone is calling us to account for our time. As retirees we are accountable only to God. We visit not to fill our pews, or to ensure tithes are received for the church. We are not here to prop up the institutional church by seeking help to support this or that project. Or to meet the church budget!
We do for one reason. We follow the footsteps of the Good Shepherd who gave His life for His sheep. Yesterday it took us three hours on buses, travelling time to visit a ninety four year lady. It was worth the time spent when we think what this visit meant to this saintly Christian living alone.
That's why we still visit our Salvation Army Nursing Home once a week to do chapel service and to go round visiting the residents. The nurses need words of encouragment too. The majority are from overseas - Phillipines, China, Myanmar, India and they do miss their families. Singaporeans form the minority. By God's grace, we will carry on with this pastoral ministry for residents and staff.
Help us to help each other, Lord,
Each other's cross to share;
Let each our friendly aid afford
And feel each other's care. -Charles Wesley
Wednesday, May 2, 2012
Visited two handicapped elderly ladies
We visited two elderly ladies, both handicapped and in their seventies. Grace and Mary had association with The Salvation Army Central Corps many years ago, in fact Mary used to sing in the Central Corps songsters in the fifties and sixties. They had not attended the Army for many years and obviously are not known to the new generation.
Grace will be 72 this Friday, so we thought we should visit and pray with her. Mary is much older and now finds it difficult to go out. We are glad in recent years TOUCH Community Services has been helping them and every Sunday provide wheelchairs and transportation to take them to church.
We thank God for health and strength, both physical and spiritual to be able to move about and engage in ministry. It's such a joy to share blessings especially with the housebound.
Minutes after we got home, it rained cats and dogs. Good thing we got home safely. We take public transport everywhere.
Grace will be 72 this Friday, so we thought we should visit and pray with her. Mary is much older and now finds it difficult to go out. We are glad in recent years TOUCH Community Services has been helping them and every Sunday provide wheelchairs and transportation to take them to church.
We thank God for health and strength, both physical and spiritual to be able to move about and engage in ministry. It's such a joy to share blessings especially with the housebound.
Minutes after we got home, it rained cats and dogs. Good thing we got home safely. We take public transport everywhere.
Friday, July 22, 2011
A most memorable week
It was a great week for both of us - a trip down memory lane! We left Singapore by Air Asia on 13th July and spent the first few days in Penang.
On Saturday evening, about 70 people turned up to welcome us - former Home children now parents and grandparents bringing their families to introduce to us. Some of the Youth we knew in the 1950's and 1960's are grandparents! Two of the former Home Leaguers now in their eighties who normally do not go out in the evenings, made the long journey to meet us.
They brought special Penang food to share with the others. One of our former boys, now a bank manager gave a talk on "managing your assets." He was one of the small boys when we were in charge of the Home. Another brother an IT specialist spoke on the Internet. I gave a short devotional to close the meeting.
Sunday morning began with Prayer meeting, then Public worship. The hall was quite full and we had a glorious time singing praises to God and meditating on His word.
Our final meal was provided by Brother Neoh Ah How whom my wife first met when she went to Penang as a cadet to do her field training in 1954. He is now in an Old peoples' Home. When we were appointed as Corps Officers in 1959, he was one of those who welcomed us. He was a bandsmen, songster organist and Corps pianist. Lim Kim Ann and Jasinta who provided transport were with us to share this fellowship meal in a Restaurant. It was quite an emotional parting that day.
Jasinta's parents - Mr.& Mrs. Michael (already gone to Glory) opened their home at Bayan Lepas for me to conduct meetings for children every Saturday. This lovely couple opened with hearts and home to us and we spent many hours of fellowship with them during the period 1959-62. I used to cycle from Perak Road to Bayan Lepas every Saturday to conduct meetings.
In the afternoon, Mr and Mrs. Eddy Choong (Tong Yat Lan) took us to Ipoh where we visited the various centres. Lovely to see the Boys' Home where we were stationed in 1969 during the time of racial crisis in Malaysia. We recalled having to remain indoors because of the curfew.
We went to the village in Tambum and visited the RSI store. That quiet village is now a bustling town! Amazing changes.
We visited the Corps a beautiful building quite a contrast with the atap and wooden hut where we used to worship on Sundays at Kampong Simee.
Things have changed. We have better facilities, modern buildings and excellent equipment. Thank God for material blessings. The message we proclaim remains the same - the gospel of Jesus Christ is still the same. Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.
A real bonus, Tong Yat Lan and Eddy took us to visit Cameron Highlands. I wasn't too keen when I thought of winding road from Tapah Station. That's what we did in 1958 when we went there for our honeymoon. This time, Yat Lan drove along the new highway up the hill. What a contrast! But Cameron is not as cold as it used to be - climate change and more buildings!
Lieut. Andrew Loh drove us back to Penang where we boarded Air Asia again bound for Singapore. Glad to be away, glad to be home. The best part of the roaming is the homing!
On Saturday evening, about 70 people turned up to welcome us - former Home children now parents and grandparents bringing their families to introduce to us. Some of the Youth we knew in the 1950's and 1960's are grandparents! Two of the former Home Leaguers now in their eighties who normally do not go out in the evenings, made the long journey to meet us.
They brought special Penang food to share with the others. One of our former boys, now a bank manager gave a talk on "managing your assets." He was one of the small boys when we were in charge of the Home. Another brother an IT specialist spoke on the Internet. I gave a short devotional to close the meeting.
Sunday morning began with Prayer meeting, then Public worship. The hall was quite full and we had a glorious time singing praises to God and meditating on His word.
Our final meal was provided by Brother Neoh Ah How whom my wife first met when she went to Penang as a cadet to do her field training in 1954. He is now in an Old peoples' Home. When we were appointed as Corps Officers in 1959, he was one of those who welcomed us. He was a bandsmen, songster organist and Corps pianist. Lim Kim Ann and Jasinta who provided transport were with us to share this fellowship meal in a Restaurant. It was quite an emotional parting that day.
Jasinta's parents - Mr.& Mrs. Michael (already gone to Glory) opened their home at Bayan Lepas for me to conduct meetings for children every Saturday. This lovely couple opened with hearts and home to us and we spent many hours of fellowship with them during the period 1959-62. I used to cycle from Perak Road to Bayan Lepas every Saturday to conduct meetings.
In the afternoon, Mr and Mrs. Eddy Choong (Tong Yat Lan) took us to Ipoh where we visited the various centres. Lovely to see the Boys' Home where we were stationed in 1969 during the time of racial crisis in Malaysia. We recalled having to remain indoors because of the curfew.
We went to the village in Tambum and visited the RSI store. That quiet village is now a bustling town! Amazing changes.
We visited the Corps a beautiful building quite a contrast with the atap and wooden hut where we used to worship on Sundays at Kampong Simee.
Things have changed. We have better facilities, modern buildings and excellent equipment. Thank God for material blessings. The message we proclaim remains the same - the gospel of Jesus Christ is still the same. Christ Jesus came into the world to save sinners.
A real bonus, Tong Yat Lan and Eddy took us to visit Cameron Highlands. I wasn't too keen when I thought of winding road from Tapah Station. That's what we did in 1958 when we went there for our honeymoon. This time, Yat Lan drove along the new highway up the hill. What a contrast! But Cameron is not as cold as it used to be - climate change and more buildings!
Lieut. Andrew Loh drove us back to Penang where we boarded Air Asia again bound for Singapore. Glad to be away, glad to be home. The best part of the roaming is the homing!
Sunday, July 10, 2011
Visiting Penang
We are getting ready to leave for Penang on Wednesday to conduct meetings. We've not been inside the new building since it was built, so are looking forward to this visit.
We were stationed in Penang twice - first at the Corps (church) from 1959 to 1962. Had a great time. We went there as a young married couple with no children. We left Penang in April 1962 with two children both born at the Seventh Day Adventist Hospital Burmah Road. We moved to Kuching where we spent three wonderful years at the Corps and Boys' Home, then returned to Penang in 1965 and spent about 18 months before being posted to Kuala Lumpur to pioneer the work of The Salvation Army in the capital city. Here our third child Poh Chin was born at Petaling Jaya.
Thank God for friends and we look forward to a great time of reunion and fellowship.
We were stationed in Penang twice - first at the Corps (church) from 1959 to 1962. Had a great time. We went there as a young married couple with no children. We left Penang in April 1962 with two children both born at the Seventh Day Adventist Hospital Burmah Road. We moved to Kuching where we spent three wonderful years at the Corps and Boys' Home, then returned to Penang in 1965 and spent about 18 months before being posted to Kuala Lumpur to pioneer the work of The Salvation Army in the capital city. Here our third child Poh Chin was born at Petaling Jaya.
Thank God for friends and we look forward to a great time of reunion and fellowship.
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
The Grace of sharing responsiblities
In the Bible we read about spiritual gifts. First the Holy Spirit distributes a variety of gifts to all believers; some get more, some less. Believers are to engage in a variety of ministries. We must all be united in exercising our gifts for the building up of the church to the glory of God.
There are some gifts that put believers in the limelight – preaching, singing, leading songs etc. Many believers are gifted in working behind the scenes – like cleaning the kitchen, preparing meals, sweeping the floor. They are all of equal importance.
We were at Central Corps last Sunday and I cannot help but notice the sharing of responsibilities. The church has more than one ‘praise and worship’ team and each team has its own leader. Even the leaders rotate. Each time we visit, we see a different leader. Last Sunday it was Guan You who led worship with sensitivity, feeling and skill. Daniel Ng was the bandmaster. The band played well in accompanying the singing. The pianist was Shermin who played beautifully the tune ‘Blacklands’ to accompany our singing of that song “He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater.” (I prefer this tune to 'The Ash Grove') Daniel did the opening prayer – he just prayed as requested without adding all kinds of comments. Elaine without making any comment read the Bible with thought and feeling.
There are many pianists at Central and they all take turns in providing music. In this way our young people get training and practice. We’ve done meetings when other pianists played – Daniel, Sarah, Rachel and others. Wonderful sharing of responsibilities! No wonder the church has so many youths participating.
I’ve learned this – no one is indispensable. It takes grace to learn to share and not hog the limelight. The church suffers when some people cannot let go! I've known of a 'praise and worship' leader who claimed that he heard the "voice of God" to move to another church. The real reason - the pastor felt it was time to give someone else the position. (There's a lot of church shopping and hopping) Learn to let go and let God have His way and let others have a chance. Do we care enough to share?
There are some gifts that put believers in the limelight – preaching, singing, leading songs etc. Many believers are gifted in working behind the scenes – like cleaning the kitchen, preparing meals, sweeping the floor. They are all of equal importance.
We were at Central Corps last Sunday and I cannot help but notice the sharing of responsibilities. The church has more than one ‘praise and worship’ team and each team has its own leader. Even the leaders rotate. Each time we visit, we see a different leader. Last Sunday it was Guan You who led worship with sensitivity, feeling and skill. Daniel Ng was the bandmaster. The band played well in accompanying the singing. The pianist was Shermin who played beautifully the tune ‘Blacklands’ to accompany our singing of that song “He giveth more grace as our burdens grow greater.” (I prefer this tune to 'The Ash Grove') Daniel did the opening prayer – he just prayed as requested without adding all kinds of comments. Elaine without making any comment read the Bible with thought and feeling.
There are many pianists at Central and they all take turns in providing music. In this way our young people get training and practice. We’ve done meetings when other pianists played – Daniel, Sarah, Rachel and others. Wonderful sharing of responsibilities! No wonder the church has so many youths participating.
I’ve learned this – no one is indispensable. It takes grace to learn to share and not hog the limelight. The church suffers when some people cannot let go! I've known of a 'praise and worship' leader who claimed that he heard the "voice of God" to move to another church. The real reason - the pastor felt it was time to give someone else the position. (There's a lot of church shopping and hopping) Learn to let go and let God have His way and let others have a chance. Do we care enough to share?
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Wedding dinner
We were invited to another wedding dinner last night at Marriot Hotel. I was there to give the exhortation and pray for the couple who were already married at the Registry on 2nd June. They are not church goers, but the parents wanted them to receive the Lord’s blessing. Mother belongs to the Chinese Methodist church, Father claims The Salvation Army as his church. Anyway the couple are quite happy to have us there to give the blessing.
A couple of months ago we did the same for their daughter and son-in-law, both practising Christians residing in Australia. They worship at Hillsongs, Australia. I must have done all right for them to invite us again this time for their son and daughter in law. And the bride's mother has been a Christian for only three months!She became a Christian through the witness of her son, the bride's brother who attends City Harvest in Kuala Lumpur. What a delight to hear her testimony.
Well my wife and I went in our uniform and what an opportunity to witness for the Lord. Many people are unaware that we are a church and think of us as just another Christian welfare organisation doing good work in the community. For want of a better term we refer to ourselves as ‘retired pastors.’ We are retired in the sense we are not pastoring a church, or run a Corps to use Army terminology, but we are still active in ministry.
We seize every opportunity to preach the word – be it at weddings, funerals, birthday parties. (O by the way we enjoyed the free dinner!) On this occasion and the previous one they even provided us with transportation to and from the hotel. The parents personally came to fetch us. What a privilege.
We thank God that even in retirement, we are given many opportunities to do ministry.
And no one forbids us to wear our uniform!
A couple of months ago we did the same for their daughter and son-in-law, both practising Christians residing in Australia. They worship at Hillsongs, Australia. I must have done all right for them to invite us again this time for their son and daughter in law. And the bride's mother has been a Christian for only three months!She became a Christian through the witness of her son, the bride's brother who attends City Harvest in Kuala Lumpur. What a delight to hear her testimony.
Well my wife and I went in our uniform and what an opportunity to witness for the Lord. Many people are unaware that we are a church and think of us as just another Christian welfare organisation doing good work in the community. For want of a better term we refer to ourselves as ‘retired pastors.’ We are retired in the sense we are not pastoring a church, or run a Corps to use Army terminology, but we are still active in ministry.
We seize every opportunity to preach the word – be it at weddings, funerals, birthday parties. (O by the way we enjoyed the free dinner!) On this occasion and the previous one they even provided us with transportation to and from the hotel. The parents personally came to fetch us. What a privilege.
We thank God that even in retirement, we are given many opportunities to do ministry.
And no one forbids us to wear our uniform!
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Indonesian Congress at Palu
On Sunday our meeting had an additional item, a talk given by Bruce Gale. Bruce an ardent Salvationist is the Bandmaster of our band at William Booth Corps.
Bruce gave a very encouraging talk about his visit to Palu with the Medan band at our meeting. I was thrilled to hear the report for as the International Secretary for the South Pacific and East Asia (1993-1997) I had the opportunity to visit Palu to inspect the work and preach the gospel there.I can picture the scene of this 2009 Congress. General Paul Rader (retired) was the visiting speaker on this special occasion. There were 14,000 participants and 99% in Salvation Army uniform! Attendance by special pass only because of security reasons! Hard for Singaporeans to imagine, but it's true.
What a thrill to see pictures of the Medan band, thirty strong leading the Salvation Army march along the streets of Palu.
By the way in these areas, normally the first worship service starts at 6.00 a.m. No sleeping in on Sunday! Some of our biggest churches are in Sulawasi.
When Bruce was stationed in Kuala Lumpur, he with several members of the Kuala Lumpur Corps band went to Medan and started a brass band at the Boys' Home in 1987. He still visits Medan quite regularly at his own expense to train the bandsmen. (I don't know what happened to KL band)
This Medan 2 Corps band accompanies the congregational singing every Sunday. It also plays carols during Christmas time at shopping plazas.
I wonder how many of you read the article in The Straits Times last Friday 24th July. It had an article by Bruce Gale, the Senior Writer. The title of the article: A perspective on Indonesian affairs. 'Taking faith in the security forces.'
Bruce and his wife Wee Cheng never miss the Adult Bible Class on Sunday morning at our church. They make excellent contribution to our discussions. They and their son Peter are a real inspiration to us. We give God thanks for such dedicated salvationists.
Bruce gave a very encouraging talk about his visit to Palu with the Medan band at our meeting. I was thrilled to hear the report for as the International Secretary for the South Pacific and East Asia (1993-1997) I had the opportunity to visit Palu to inspect the work and preach the gospel there.I can picture the scene of this 2009 Congress. General Paul Rader (retired) was the visiting speaker on this special occasion. There were 14,000 participants and 99% in Salvation Army uniform! Attendance by special pass only because of security reasons! Hard for Singaporeans to imagine, but it's true.
What a thrill to see pictures of the Medan band, thirty strong leading the Salvation Army march along the streets of Palu.
By the way in these areas, normally the first worship service starts at 6.00 a.m. No sleeping in on Sunday! Some of our biggest churches are in Sulawasi.
When Bruce was stationed in Kuala Lumpur, he with several members of the Kuala Lumpur Corps band went to Medan and started a brass band at the Boys' Home in 1987. He still visits Medan quite regularly at his own expense to train the bandsmen. (I don't know what happened to KL band)
This Medan 2 Corps band accompanies the congregational singing every Sunday. It also plays carols during Christmas time at shopping plazas.
I wonder how many of you read the article in The Straits Times last Friday 24th July. It had an article by Bruce Gale, the Senior Writer. The title of the article: A perspective on Indonesian affairs. 'Taking faith in the security forces.'
Bruce and his wife Wee Cheng never miss the Adult Bible Class on Sunday morning at our church. They make excellent contribution to our discussions. They and their son Peter are a real inspiration to us. We give God thanks for such dedicated salvationists.
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