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DIOCESE OF WEST KDN : PP11463/05/2013 (032185) DECEMBER 2018 Diocesan Theme for 2018 Releasing Talents As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace. (1 Peter 4 : 10)

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Editorial...... 2 Events in 2019 - Private Circulation Only ’s Message...... 3 • 40th Anniversary of STM - 6 January

• Launching of Diocesan Theme MESSENGER CCEA Meet...... 4-6 KDN : PP11463/05/2013 (032185) DECEMBER 2018 - 7 January Ordination Service for Priests and • Iban, BM & Indigenous Board AGM ...... 7 - 19 January Why am I an Anglican? ...... 8-9 • 4th Provincial Gathering at Lake Toba - 18-21 February Seeing Suffering in a • Provincial Standing Committee at Different Light ...... 10 -11 Lake Toba - 21-22 February Southern Peninsula Assembly...... 12 • Diocesan Clergy and Deaconesses Retreat - 25-27 March Northern Peninsula Assembly...... 13 • Anglican Care AGM - 5-7 April Kem Generasi Yeshua...... 14 • Cozy Home AGM - 27 April Combined BM/Indigenous Women’s Gathering...... 15 Diocesan Youth Council Activities...... 16 Editorial Board Adviser : Is the Christmas message of hope and goodwill Book of Devotions - Our Daily Rice...... 17 The Most Revd Datuk Ng Moon Hing relevant to our nation coming to terms with a political upheaval and an economic crisis? The Clergy Wives and Deaconesses Members : message of Christmas, through revolutionary, is Esther Richards (Editor) Retreat ...... 18 relevant and reassuring. With His birth and by James Chee SMK St David wins National BK Quiz ...... 19 Prakash Mukherjee His death and resurrection, Christ can transform Benjamin Ong both the individual and his society. The Editorial Board welcomes articles and The Synod of The Diocese of West John Huss, the well known fourteenth century photographs that focus on the theme. Please Malaysia (Anglican Church) theologian, believed in the transformation of submit articles in Word document and relevant 214, Jalan Pahang, his society. Using Scriptures as the foremost photographs in JPEG format of about 1 MB authority he sought to turn the Roman Church 53000 , Malaysia. each by 1 March 2019 to: Tel: 03-4024 3213 / 03-4025 3213 away from the corruption and abuses plaguing Email: [email protected] The Editor, it. Though unsuccessful, his teachings impacted 2 Anglican Messenger, Martin Luther into bringing about the much KDN : PP11463/05/2013 (032185) e-mail to [email protected] needed reformation within the Roman Church. Releasing The Talents (Part 3) Releasing Our Whole Self to God by The Most Revd Datuk Ng Moon Hing Archbishop and Primate of the Province of the Anglican Church in South East Asia and of the Diocese of West Malaysia

and yet we can still harbour the notion of being someone great and powerful in order to lord it over others. Our Will should be imitating God’s Will; otherwise, we will come to a stage where ‘I am willing to follow God only if … or but … or unless …’ We have seen people who say that they put God first in their lives; but other things in their lives, such as family, career, comfort and earnings are also at the same level.

The Mind – we also need to release our mind to God. The Scripture teaches us to focus or fix our eyes on Jesus always. John the Baptist exclaimed, “[Jesus] must increase, and we must decrease.” (John 3:30) A quick survey of our churches often shows that the speeches, actions and behaviour of many church members do seriously run contrary to the teachings of the Scriptures. The concept of branded goods, cars, best served food, best deals Archbishop Ng Moon Hing and best visits have filled our thoughts and spoken words more than anything any people are encouraged to in God is to give our treasure to Him. This else of Jesus. Though once in a while serve the Lord in full-time or part- is one of the most difficult commands of we do mention that we need to have the Mtime capacities. Often we hear the Lord to keep. Our offering is God’s Mind of Christ i.e. not count equality with about them entering service happily, but way of keeping our hearts in Him. It is the things of the world but humble one’s departing burnt-out and hurting. Aren’t said that it is ‘more blessed to give than self to God’s Will, it is more often treated the people of God supposed to have lots to receive.’ If we give our time to the Lord, like a fashionable slogan during certain of grace, love, patience and humility? In then we won’t have any to waste. If we festive days. Unless we intentionally reality, that is not so. One of the greatest give our money to the Lord, then we won’t have Jesus increase daily in our lives, challenges is that those who are serving have any left to hoard, lest we become our service will definitely be plagued with ‘are still learning to release themselves arrogant and boastful. If we give our many struggles and eventually burnout. completely to God.’ It is the concept of attention to the Lord, then we won’t have Dying To Self or Denying One’s Self that any left to build our own kingdom. Unless Can we at this Christmastide confidently we are told to adopt and adhere to. we intentionally give to God’s purpose, release ourselves to God by saying, “[We] our lives will easily be distracted from the shall love the Lord [our] God with all [our] The Heart – we first need to release our Lord’s business. heart and with all [our] soul and with all heart to God. ‘For where your treasure is, [our] mind” (Matt 22:37) and intentionally there your heart will be also’ (Matt 6:21; The Soul – we need to release our whole live our lives as True Disciples of Christ? AM Luke 12:34). The way to keep our hearts Will to God. We may be following Jesus, 3 CCEA Bishops Pray for Peace & Reconciliation by Annamaney Arumanayagam

Archbishop Ng assisted by the local clergy at Holy Communion

he Council of Churches East Asia The 5-day meeting included Bible Studies Bishops Annual Conference was by Revd Dr Duncan Dormor, the General Theld from 12–17 September 2018 Secretary of the United Society for the in Cheon-An City, Diocese of Daejeon, Propagation of the Gospel (USPG), a South Korea. The theme was ‘The session on the Safe Church Commission 21st Century Disciples of Jesus – led by Mr Garth Blake and his team, a Ambassadors of God’s Peace and presentation on the work of ‘The Anglican Reconciliation.’ For the first time the Alliance – the Church in action.’ by me in conference was opened to women my role as the East Asia facilitator, and a representatives from each Province. talk by Dr John Jae-jeong Lee of Korea

Archbishop Ng giving the introduction on Annam to the participants

on The Role of the Church in Peace and Reconciliation in the Korean Peninsula’. The women also met separately for a talk by Revd Canon Terrie Robinson, who is the Director for Women in Church and Society at the Office in London.

4 Women participants at the conference moving ceremony which followed, the Primate of South Korea, the Most Revd Moses Nag Jun Yoo delivered a Wish for Peace Speech. This was followed by a Peace Declaration read by Archbishop Ng Moon Hing, the , Primate of South East Asia and Chair of the Council of Churches in East Asia (CCEA). He read first from Isaiah 2:4 ‘They will beat their swords into ploughshares and their spears into pruning hooks. Nation will not take up sword against nation, nor will they train for war anymore (Isaiah 2:4),’ and began the Declaration with ‘First, we repent that the Church did not play a proper role. Backdrop showing the coastline of North Korea Despite having a mission to serve as a peacemaker for peace, we confess that On Saturday, 15 September 2018, all a clear view of North Korea just across we sometimes have defended them on the leaders from Anglican Churches in the river. A sea of purple dominated the side of the people at one end of the East Asia comprising the 5 , the landscape, and what a view it was, division and we humbly repent it.’ 22 Bishops, their spouses, women as the Archbishops and Bishops stood and youth representatives from the in solidarity with the people of Korea to The Archbishop went on to say in the Anglican Churches gathered at the pray for peace and reconciliation in this communiqué that “we eagerly await Ganghwa Peace Observatory to divided peninsula. God’s will for the peace settlement of express repentance for not playing “a the Korean peninsula, and at the same proper role” in the Korean conflict. The Facing North Korea, just 2.3 km across time, appeal to South and North Korean Peace Observatory which sits on the the river, the participants of the CCEA leaders and people and leaders of de-facto border between North and Bishops’ Meeting were welcomed by countries around the Korean Peninsula South Korea on Ganghwa Island gave the Deputy Governor of Ganghwa. In a including the United States and Japan,

5 Bishops facing North Korea and praying for peace must be shared. Justice, peace, tolerance and reconciliation must be done. We must strengthen the international network and realise the value of coexistence and symbiosis in solidarity. It is our hope that these efforts will cooperate and make good a complete denuclearisation on the Korean peninsula, and eventually a peaceful reunification will be completed.”

He expressed hope that “peace of the Korean peninsula will become the foundation for peace in East Asia and the world.”

Following the Declaration for Peace, Archbishop Moon Hing led the CCEA participants in facing North Korea and Intellectually challenged young people giving a drum performance praying for reunification and peace.

and stand on the very place of division Peace is a universal value that humanity Besides serious sessions, there were for the peaceful settlement of the Korean should share. To expect the co-prosperity also night programmes which included peninsula.” of humankind without peace is delusional a delightful drum performance by and false.” intellectually challenged young people He said: “We do not support any from Centres run by the Anglican ideological bias, but as an apostle of He further went on to state, “We must Churches and visits to several social Jesus in the twenty-first century, as now create a new history of true peace. concern ministries run by the Churches. the ambassador of God, who has been Beyond the border, we must learn to live charged with promoting reconciliation together beyond language differences. Participants and visitors were also taken and peace amongst the conflicting ones. Internationally, resources and assets to visit the oldest Anglican church St Peter and St Paul on Ganghwa Island, built in the traditional Korean style on the outside but Western on the inside.

On Sunday participants to the conference had the opportunity to worship in different local churches.

It was a wonderful privilege and opportunity to participate in this year’s CCEA Bishops’ Conference. May we continue to pray for God’s peace and reconciliation for the Korean Peninsula. 6 AM On the steps of St Peter and St Paul Ordination Service for Priests and Deacons By Revd Dato Dr Yeoh Beng San

moving and the presentation of stoles, Bibles, vestments, chalices and pattens were all significant, launching the ordinands to ministry in the church. The taking of the oath of canonical obedience and the declaration and assent to the Doctrines and formularies of the Anglican Church by the ordinands established their commitment to serve in the diocese.

The service ended at 6.30 pm with an enthusiastic singing of the hymn ‘I the Lord of Land he Ordination Service for 2018 was successfully carried out on T31 October 2018 in Cornerstone Sanctuary, Bercham, . After four months of hectic and detailed planning and preparations by members of Cornerstone Sanctuary for this very important event in the diary of our Diocese, the day finally arrived with unexpectedly very good weather despite the weather forecast of severe thunderstorm. This was an answer to our persistent and prevailing prayers.

There were altogether nine ordinands, five were ordained as priests and four as deacons. The five ordained as priests Presentation of the newly ordained priests and deacons by Archbishop Ng to the were Revd Dr Richard Loh Li Cher, Revd congregation. L to R Revd Dr Loh, Revd Ng, Revd Nicholls, Revd Murphy, Revd Dawson, Vincent Francis Murphy, Revd Kenneth Revd Dr Lim Kar Yong, Evangelist Karma, Pastor Tan and Mr Lau I. R. Dawson, Revd Timothy Andrew Nicholls and Revd Ng Tze Yeong, Andy. The service followed the order of the and Sea’ asking ‘Whom shall I send?’ The four who were ordained deacons steep tradition of the Anglican Ordination and the response in the chorus, ‘Is it I were Revd Dr Lim Kar Yong, Mr Paul Lau Service. Archbishop gave a challenging Lord?’ A happy time of many cameras Hang Soon, evangelist Karma and Pastor alliterative sermon based on the scripture clicking in the church was followed by a Tan Meng Huat. readings of the day and encouraged sit down dinner at 7pm, provided by the the ordinands in particular and the host in a nearby restaurant. The array of The Ordination Service started at 4 pm congregation in general. 3 Ws were used sumptuous food served was much to the with a long procession consisting of cross to bring home the message namely : satisfaction of all those present. bearer, choir, seminarians, deaconesses, use the wisdom of God, walk worthy of deacons, priests, canons, , the Gospel and use wise investment for All in all, everything went on smoothly and diocesan officers, ordinands, church eternity. the good number of compliments from the wardens, suffragan bishops, Archbishop guests to the hosting church testify to this. and his chaplain. The total number of people The highlight of the service was the We give all glory to God and thank the who attended the service came up to 288, ordination itself which was both very Archbishop for giving us the honour and a record attendance for the Cornerstone meaningful and symbolic. The anointing privilege of hosting this special service. Sanctuary. by the Holy Spirit of the ordinands was AM 7 Why Am I An Anglican? by Revd Dr Lim Kar Yong

Anglican: Huh? No Way? What Took You So Long? number of people have asked me about my ​A journey to the Anglican church. Some were rather surprised by my decision while some others expected it. Still others were amazed that it had taken me so long! Indeed, it has been a long journey for me. This journey to the Anglican church has taken more than 10 years. As I prepare for my ordination as a on 31 October 2018 I thought it would be good for me to pen down some of my reflections on my personal journey of faith.

Some have asked why I Archbishop Ng Moon Hing with Revd Dr Lim Kah Yong and Canon Dr Steven Abbarow have walked away from my Evangelical roots. Perhaps I with its immense value and richness in its In liturgical spaces, all that I do becomes can clarify this. I have not run away from history, theology and practice. meaningful and symbolic, and all these my Evangelical roots. ​In fact, the church draw me to worship God and to remember I left is a great church that places strong This journey of discovery continued for the redemptive work of Christ. emphasis on worship, preaching and many years. It was not until the beginning mission. I love that church and the people of 2015 that I decided to make St Paul’s The liturgical calendar also reminds there. Many friendships have been forged Church, Petaling Jaya, my spiritual home. me of the various seasons of the year, and we remain good and close friends till This was done after a period of prayer, moving from Advent to Christmas, Lent, today. I am indebted to many people who discernment and consultation with my Easter, Pentecost and Christ the King. cared for me while I was serving there mentors and spiritual directors. I was In between, we commemorate other and continue to care for me today. Many finally confirmed as an Anglican at St important Holy Days. As a community, we have invested in me and have helped me Mark’s Church, Seremban, on January move through the seasons of the liturgical become a more Christ-like person. I am 14, 2018. year together. We fast and feast together. thankful for the opportunity to serve the There is a deep sense of celebrating and church and the people for more than 20 Here are some reasons why I am an commemorating the different seasons of years as a pastor, leader, and a board Anglican. the liturgical calendar, and this provides member. It was not some strong push a meaningful rhythm for our Christian factor that tipped me over the other side. 1. Liturgical Worship journey. Rather, I was being drawn to something ​I have grown to love liturgy in worship. else. While some may find liturgy to be rigid, 2. The Book of Common Prayer and I have discovered it to be beautiful, The Daily Office Over the last 10 years, there has been a meaningful and moving. I have learnt to The Book of Common Prayer helps me greater desire drawing me towards the worship with my whole body that engages pray when I lack original words or even the ancient practices and teachings rooted all my senses – standing, kneeling, desire to pray. The prayers are beautifully in the rich history and tradition of the crossing myself, taking in the smell of and biblically crafted. The Daily Office Church. As I began to explore the various incense (if incense is used), exchanging provides me a guide for reading the Bible strands of Christian spirituality, formation the Peace, receiving the Eucharist, and systematically, confess my sins daily, and 8 and worship, I was drawn to being sent out to love and serve the Lord. offer prayers and intercessions to God on behalf of the world. Each day, the readings alone. We are not an independent church are personal reasons too: Teaching cover the Old Testament, Psalm, and the in a particular town or city. We are part in an ecumenical seminary where the New Testament. of a large, historical, diverse and global Anglican Church is one of the founding community. denominations; students whom I had By observing the Daily Office, I develop taught in the past are now colleagues the habit of starting and ending each day Whenever we gather to worship - whether in the ministry; and many others. with prayer and contemplation. These we belong to a cathedral, a parish in a However, I have come to believe that this orders for daily worship not only form large metropolis, or a small church in a is where I belong, and for me, it is good the backbone of Anglican spirituality but tiny rural village that is cut off from the rest to have a sense of coming home. I do provide a proven rhythm of devotion to of the world - we are still engaging with a understand this is a personal journey - God that is deeply rooted in the Scripture. common faith, reading the same Scripture what works for me may not necessarily It is a healthy spiritual discipline for me. passages, praying the same prayers, work for others. As long as we find confessing alongside one another, and a home where we worship God, serve 3. Theological Breadth The theological formulations found in the Thirty-nine Articles clearly express what the gospel of Jesus Christ is. Together with the Book of Homilies, the Book of Common Prayer, and the historic creeds, I find the declarations of the great doctrines the Anglicans hold on to. God is worshipped in all His grandeur as Creator. The work of Christ in His death and resurrection for the salvation of humanity is central. The Spirit in convicting sin and dwelling in the lives of His people is emphasised. The truth of the Scripture is expressed with clarity.

All these works never replace the Bible. At the heart of Anglican theology is the Bible. There is a well-known collect used by The Confirmation Service Anglicans for many centuries, reminding us that the Bible is the revelation of God participating in the Eucharist, despite the people, and grow in maturity with the through the words of human beings: our differences in ethnicity, culture, and community, that is the best place to belong. language. Blessed Lord, You have caused all As a minister of the gospel since 2009 holy Scriptures to be written for our Yet at the same time, we also recognise with the Evangelical Free Church of learning: grant that we may so hear them, that all of us are shaped and formed by Malaysia, it is only natural that I seek read, mark, learn and inwardly digest the culture of the communities we belong for ordination in the Diocese of West them, that, by patience and comfort to. With this regards, there is respect Malaysia. With the encouragement of the of Your holy word we may embrace for different areas of involvement in Archbishop and fellow colleagues, I have and ever hold fast the blessed hope of the church based on our unique local decided to offer myself as a candidate everlasting life, which You have given us expressions, actions, issues. for the Holy Office. Having gone through in our Saviour Jesus Christ, who lives and the process of interview and fulfilling the reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one What’s Next? requirements stipulated by the Diocese, God, for ever and ever. Amen. ​I have shared some primary reasons that the first reading of Si Quis was done on have drawn me into a way of life and a September 16, 2018 at my home church, 4. The Anglican Communion way of being a Christian in the Anglican St Paul’s Church, paving the way for my One of the beautiful expressions of the Church. Of course, there are more ordination as a Deacon, God willing, on Anglican Church is that we are never reasons than what I have stated. There Reformation Day, 31 October, 2018. AM 9 Seeing Suffering In A Different Light by Marianne Liaw

Serving as Captain of the 6th KL Company Girls’ Brigade at SMK St Mary “I cannot understand. You serve God undergoing, particularly where my health in return. Rather, the Christian serves so fervently, why does God treat you is concerned*. I gently explained to him God with a heart of gratitude and thanks this way?” that as believers, our hope is not in the because we have received something health, wealth and prosperity of the here SO MUCH GREATER than anything this and now, but rather, our eyes are set on world can offer us. The Scriptures tell the eternal reward God has for those who us that God has given us every spiritual trust in Him. blessing in the heavenly places. He has adopted us to be His sons by redeeming us through the blood of His Son (Ephesians 1:3-10) When a follower of Jesus lifts his eyes to behold the immensity of what awaits us for eternity, the sufferings and the afflictions of this world become small. Earthly blessings seem insignificant in the light of the glory which is to come. Yes indeed, “this light and Preaching the Word of God momentary affliction is preparing us for an eternal weight of glory his question came from one of the beyond all comparison.” residents of the home which my (2 Corinthians 4:17-18). Thusband Daniel and I, together with the ministry team from our home I remember visiting a church church, St Mary’s Cathedral KL, visit on earlier this year with Daniel and hearing the preacher tell the a regular basis to conduct Bible study. Speaking at a Girls’ Brigade Enrolment Service 2018 We had just finished sharing God’s congregation that “you cannot Word with the residents, when this serve God if you are not healthy.” man, who is a relatively new Christian, It is this living hope which drives me to This was repeated to me after the service approached me. The question he had serve God. A Christian does not serve by a group of loving and well-meaning asked was with reference to the apparent God in order that God would bless him Christians. I felt deeply saddened by what 10 afflictions or suffering I have been or her with great health and lots of riches had been said. This statement couldn’t HIS POWER that is persecutions, and calamities. For when I at work in me. It is am weak, then I am strong.” (2 Corinthians in our weakness 12:9b-10) God shows us that HIS GRACE is And Paul’s response is one I seek to make sufficient for us. my own as well. I myself have witnessed God’s sufficient grace in enabling me to The Apostle continue to serve Him, even in the face of Paul himself physical disability and sickness. How can experienced an it even be possible for one to think that a unknown affliction, Christian must be strong and healthy and a thorn in his flesh of good financial status in order that he or which he pleaded she can serve God? with God three times to remove In fact, it is these afflictions which have from him. But God’s enabled both Daniel and I to serve and answer to him was minister to saints in Christ who suffer from this: “My grace is illness, abandonment and are close to sufficient for you, death, and to encourage them with the for My power is hope that we know we have in Christ. This made perfect in calls to mind the words of the Apostle Paul Sharing God’s Word at the Engage Youth Event in St George’s weakness.” in 2 Corinthians 1:14, that God “comforts Church Penang 2018 (2 Corinthians 12:9) us in all our affliction, so that we may have been further from the truth. Can be able to comfort those who are in any an omnipotent God not choose to use a Hence, what was Paul’s response to this? affliction, with the comfort with which we person who is frail and sickly in body and ourselves are comforted by God.” even in mind? I often tell those around “Therefore I will boast all the more me that I am confident that even if my gladly of my weaknesses, so that the The Christian life is not an easy one. health were to fail to the extent that all I power of Christ may rest upon me. For But we can be certain that in ALL things could do was to lift one little finger, God the sake of Christ, then, I am content (in joys and afflictions) God works for could still use me for His glory for it is with weaknesses, insults, hardships, the good of those who love Him. He is conforming us into the likeness of His Son, preparing us to spend an eternity in glory with Him! (Romans 8:28-30)

Hence, when people ask me if I do pray for healing and for restoration of physical sight, I tell them that I do, but that this is NOT my priority in life. My priority in life is to live for Jesus, and to serve Him in all situations and conditions.

May Christ be honoured in my body whether by life or by death. AM

*The writer suffers from a rare disease which affects her autonomic nervous system. This has resulted in various health complications, including loss of sight.

Teaching Scripture at a camp 11 The Southern Peninsula Regional Assembly 2018 by Amutha Alfred

The clergy in attendance

Group photograph

he Regional Assembly was hosted by St Stephen’s Church Yong Peng Provincial Synod Ton 8 August 2018. A total of 99 February approved in principle delegates, clergy and laity attended the 2018 3 independent new assembly. dioceses

The Assembly began with a Holy Provincial Standing Communion service followed by a group February Committee to review the photo session. The Assembly also saw 2019 work from the legal sub- the presentation of love gifts to Revd committee David Rajiah and Revd Dr Vijendra Daniel in recognition of their long and faithful service and ministry in the Diocese. September Provincial Synod will Revd Dr Viji Daniel (L) and Revd David Rajah 2019 meet. The Regional Assembly was chaired by The Treasurer’s audited report was The Rt Revd Dr Jason Selvaraj, Suffragan presented by the Diocesan Treasurer Diocesan Synod will Bishop for the South Pennisula Area Mr Kingsley Yuen and his assistant. The meet. Election of Diocese with a discussion convened at overall financial results for 2017 showed Nominees for bishops 11.30am to deliberate on the needs of October an increase compared to a deficit in 2016. will be carried out if the the New Diocese, Mission and Training 2019 Provincial Synod has final Centre, Catchment area and leaders Diocesan contributions have not been at approval for the future in view of the impending division of the par with the expenditure. Revd Edward dioceses. Diocese. M John appealed to the churches to support the Diocese in the contributions. Dss Tan Siew Bee briefed the participants Inauguration of on the Anglican Institute of Ministry and new dioceses and In his closing address, Bishop Jason stated that a detailed prospectus with consecration of new thanked the Diocesan Treasurer and his the mechanism and teaching academic bishops will take place, assistant for presenting the accounts. credentials was in progress. 2020 provided Provincial He also thanked all delegates for their

Synod has approved the attendance, Revd Daniel Loke and Delegates were treated to a sumptuous resolution and house of members of St Stephen’s Church Yong buffet lunch at Hock Hwa Restaurant and Bishops has appointed Peng for the well-organized Regional the Assembly was followed by a meeting the bishops Assembly and encouraged everyone to at 2.00pm. A brief update of the Future 12 continue to pray for all clergy and their Dioceses was given: families. AM Northern Regional Assembly by Revd Gerrard Emmanuel

Participants at the Northern Regional Assembly

he Northern Regional Assembly Kennady preached a sermon on ‘The Participants were given time to discuss was held on 11 August 2018 at the Righteous Will Live by Faith.’ Towards this matter in the four language groups. TChurch of the Holy Spirit, Ipoh. the end of the service the Assembly The feedback from the various groups was A total of 122 people consisting clergy, recognized all who had served the diocese given to the churches/archdeacons for laity and observers attended the meeting for 10 and 20 years. The customary group further deliberations. On a different note, chaired by The Rt Revd Dato’ Charles photo was taken immediately after the the next Synod according to Bishop will be Samuel. Both the archdeacons, The Ven service. a historical event to be held at St George’s John Kennady and The Ven Stephen Soe Church, Penang in conjunction with the of the lower-north and the upper-north Bishop Charles in his address spoke of 200 Years for Anglicanism Celebration. archdeaconries respectively, were present the future dioceses and the implications as well. for the northern region. The underlying The meeting ended with tea. In all, uncertainties were evident in the the assembly provided a good time of The meeting officially began with the subsequent discussions that focused on discussion and dialogue that surely opening service at 9am. John the needs of the diocese in the future. benefited all those who were present. AM

Kingsley Yuen Diocesan Treasurer briefing participants on Group discussion on the future of the Diocese Diocesan finances 13 Kem Generasi Yeshua by Crystal Lulong

Registering for the camp

Participants at the camp

rom 22 - 25 August 2018, a youth to seek and save the lost’. The keynote camp called ‘Kem Generasi speaker was Pastor Joshua Ramesh. FYeshua’ (GY Camp) organised by the youth ministry of Lembaga Pelayanan Many of the participants were visibly Bahasa Malaysia & Orang Asal (LPBM moved by the messages from the four & OA) was successfully held at St speakers and when the altar call was Katherine’s Church, Kajang. A total of 180 given the response was tremendous. participants and 20 committee members Many of them came forward to rededicate were involved in this camp. During the their lives to the Lord and were fired with camp, four speakers were invited to be the desire to serve Him. part of the blessings. They were Revd Canon Jacob George John, Ps Joshua On behalf of the organising committee Ramesh, Ps Bakar Mongot and Revd we would like to thank Revd Issac Eduan Bah Chimpok. Other servants Pandianadan for allowing the GY Camp of God who were involved were Revd 2018 to be held at St. Katherine’s Church, Juining Babia and Revd Jack Owal. Kajang and for the church members’ hospitality. Above all, all praise, honour The main theme for this youth camp was and glory to our God Almighty for His ‘Saviour of Our Soul’ (S.O.S) taken from goodness and grace that made this camp Luke 19:10 ‘For the Son of Man came possible. Hallelujah! AM

14 Participants in a time of praise and prayer Combined BM/Indigenous Women’s Gathering by Asselind James Jimbat

he Women’s Fellowship of the Holy Cross Church Sitiawan organised a Tcombined Women’s gathering and seminar from 9 - 11 August 2018 in Virgo Resort, Telok Batik, . The theme for the seminar was ‘Releasing Talents.’ The Bishop of Diocese, Bishop Danald Jute was the theme speaker at the seminar together with Archdeacon John Kennady of the Lower North Archdeaconry. A total of 79 participants from 13 churches representing the Upper North, Lower North and Southern Archdeaconries of the Diocese of West Malaysia as well as the Diocesan Women’s Fellowship of the Diocese of The main purpose of the gathering and the Word of God being expounded and Kuching attended the seminar. seminar was to bring together the sisters participating in praise and worship, the from various churches to foster better ladies had the opportunity to go on a fun- understanding, provide encouragement filled half day trip to Pangkor Island. The ‘Cultural and Talent Nite’ saw the performances of the various cultural dances by the ladies dressed in their traditional costumes and dresses.

The seminar had a few problems and shortcomings; nevertheless the Lord was gracious and saw us through it all. We give praise and thanks to our Heavenly Father for His guidance and blessings throughout the seminar. AM The Rt Revd Danald Jute - the Bishop of L to R Bishop Danald Jute and Revd Jacob John Kuching Diocese sounding the gong The opening ceremony was officiated by and establish Bishop Danald Jute and he was assisted relationships. by the Vicar of Holy Cross Church, Revd It was indeed Canon Jacob John. The sounding of a an eye-opener gong signalled the opening of the seminar. for many of the ladies from both Also present on stage were the DWF the dioceses president of the Kuching Diocese Sister who had not Leonora, the advisor Sister Mitty, LNA experienced WF chairperson Dr Cheng, Deaconess this form of Elizabeth and the WF president of Holy gathering. Cross Church. Experiences were shared and The seminar began with a time of praise friendships were and worship led by Sylvia John and her made. Apart team of ladies. from listening to Sylvia, wife of Revd Canon John, leading in worship 15

Diocesan Youth Council Activities

Participants at the Inter-Church games

n 19 May, the Church of the Holy of St Mary’s Cathedral, Kuala Lumpur Spirit, Ipoh, hosted the Inter- sharing from 1 Peter 4:1-11 on how we as OChurch games for the Lower young adults ought to live our lives; not North Archdeaconry (LNA). Some 212 for human passions, but for the will of participants from 11 churches attended, God. A life lived according to God’s will including boys from the Salvation Army is expressed through thoughtful prayer, Boys’ Home, Tambun. Five sports/games earnest love, sincere hospitality, and were played, namely, futsal, netball, faithful serving. We learnt that whatever badminton, chess and carrom. Amidst the we speak and do, we must do it all for the busyness and competition, the objective glory of God. of the day was achieved: getting to know the LNA community better. It was a bonus Expanding on faithful serving, Dean Participants at the Young Adults’ that the host church was also the overall Andrew ran a workshop called ‘Ministry Conference champion, winning the same trophy they of the Pew’, where he explained that won last year. The runner-up was Holy serving in church on Sunday is not only in simulated experience of handling various Cross Church, Sitiawan, followed by the a formal role but wherever there is a need, scenarios prompted us to think of the Salvation Army Boys. for example, being in church early to help people we meet in church and outside the newcomers feel welcomed. To help us church - how can we love them better? Two months later, on 14 July, St Mark’s see this in practice, in our teambuilding Church, Seremban, hosted the 31st session, we role played scenarios of The conference concluded with a Diocesan English Young Adults’ welcoming people suffering from mental workshop by Timothy Cheang on ‘Social Conference. The theme was ‘Saved illness, people with physical disability and Media Sharing’. Social media is prevalent 16 to Serve’, with Dean Andrew Cheah, people with difficult personalities. The in the lives of young adults and more Book of Devotions

Our Daily Rice Spiritual Food for Asians

Participants at ‘ENGAGE’ often than not we are unaware of the studies for youth. Tips and tricks such benefits and dangers when it comes to as incorporation of games, action-filled bearing Christian witness online. Timothy songs, art and craft like origami, and provided practical tips on how to manage story-telling keep Bible study sessions our communications on social media and interesting, memorable, and impactful. ways to use it in a Gospel-worthy manner for the glory of God. One of the participants, Audrey Wong, Canon Dr Teoh shared this with us: “An enlightening Soong Kee Our next event was hosted by St event, filled with non-stop interaction George’s Church, Penang, titled both indoors and outdoors, knowing This book of devotions is called ‘ENGAGE’. Organised by the Upper that we can praise God every second of Our Daily Rice as it is written North Archdeaconry on 25 August, this our lives - that is by doing what pleases for the Asian reader. Rice is our event focused on the importance of youth Him in our thoughts, words and deeds. staple food rather than bread. ministries in helping young ones learn I’ve always thought that I live in a small Just as we eat rice for our and understand God’s Word, as well world, but no, the picture is much, much nutritional needs every day, we as providing them a platform to grow in bigger. All in a day I’ve gained the insight also need spiritual food daily for godliness and spiritual maturity. Carol, that the world does not revolve around our spiritual growth. There are 13 an FES representative for the Northern us, but it is us who should be revolving devotions from 2 Chronicles and Region, shared on this topic, and helped around God.” 16 devotions from the book of us learn the importance of recognising Revelation. The other devotions God’s voice in the Bible through a game. We were encouraged by the youth’s are written according to the Without a good grasp of the Bible, it is active participation and fellowship, their occasion such as Good Friday, almost impossible for one to differentiate eagerness to grow, and their hunger for Advent, Christmas, Fathers’ Day, between phrases taken from the Bible the truth in these events. Our next update a wedding and a funeral. and phrases of philosophical ideas or will feature our annual youth camp on the It is hoped that these short other religions. theme of ‘Saved to Serve’ at Cameron devotions will be read, digested Highlands to be held on 7 – 10 December. and put to prayer and practiced Lunchtime was fun-filled with food AM regularly for our spiritual health. hunt activities along the old streets of Georgetown. After that, the youths This article was written with contributions from benefited from Marianne, (of St Mary’s Lydia Abraham of Church of the Holy Spirit, Ipoh, Audrey Wong of St George’s Church, Penang, Cathedral, Kuala Lumpur) sharing of and Anne Lim of St Mary’s Cathedral, Kuala 17 practical yet creative ways to lead Bible Lumpur. Clergy Wives and Deaconesses Retreat by Anna Juining

life in serving God as a team. From their sharing we realize that serving the Lord is not an easy thing but the best thing is it can be done fruitfully if we devote ourselves to prayer and have total dependence on God. The day ended with Dss Tan Swee Bee conducting the compline for the first night. Dss Pushpathai Nathan took the compline for the second night.

On the second day, after devotion we had a wonderful time visiting three places. With the help of Revd David Low from Joshua Cmmunity Centre, Rasa Jaya and Dss Tan Swee Bee, we went to the Hibiscus Walk to relax beside the beach. Participants at the retreat We had lunch at Wei Yein Restaurant and then visited the Rumah Terbalik rom 9-11 July 2018 we had and Pusat Hiasan Ikan. After a wonderful and meaningful dinner we had more time to share Ftime together as wives of and pray in our small groups. the clergy and deaconesses at Teluk Kemang, Port Dickson. We really enjoyed a wonderful We thank God for giving Bisfe fellowship together and would Siew Lan and her committee the like to thank Bisfe Siew Lan for idea to organise this retreat, the organising this retreat and Judi purpose of which was to provide Cheah, Revd Canon Steven and an opportunity for wives and Anne Abbarow for the sharing deaconesses to get together, and Revd David for providing a build up relationships, and share van for sightseeing and also the mutual experiences for fellowship Revd Canon Dr Steven Abbarow sharing with the participants delicious food cooked by Joshua and journeying together in a Community Church members. All unique ministry. Cheah, then shared from Ephesians 1: glory and praise be to God. AM 1-23 about serving God effectively as The retreat began with a word of welcome wives of the clergy and deaconesses. by Bisfe Siew Lan followed by a time of From her sharing we learned about who praise. Judi Cheah, wife of the Dean of we are in Christ and how the roles we the Cathedral, the Very Revd Andrew play may change but our identity in Christ does not and we remain secure in Him. We were divided into small groups for a time of sharing and praying together.

After dinner, the husband and wife team of Revd Canon Dr Steven and Anne Abbarow shared on the joys and the difficulties of married Praying for each other 18 Judi Cheah sharing with the group SMK St David’s Wins National BK Quiz by Deaconess Yit Ching Lee

school in the Diocese for having emerged National Champion. Nga Tian Ern and Ezra Tan En Zhong were beaming with joy and pride as they received the MCSC Challenge Trophy from the Most Rev Julian Leow, D.D, the Titular Roman Catholic Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur. It was the first time Melaka had become the national champion! The team was accompanied by their BK teachers, Mdm Grace Teh On Chew and Mdm Jagan Anand. Congratulations to SMK Tinggi St David, Melaka, you have made the Diocese of West Malaysia proud on your outstanding achievement.

The first runner-up was SMK Methodist (L to R) Mdm Grace Tay, Mdm Jagan Nathan, Nga Tian Ern, Ezra Tan and Sibu, (Carina Loi Jing and Esther The Most Revd Julian Leow Lau Yi Ci). The second runner-up was Sri Sempurna International MJK Katholik, Petaling School KL (Ryan Lee Hao Jaya was buzzing with Bing and Melanie Koo Sexcitement on 4 August Wei Wei). Beside trophies from as early as 6.00am as and certificates, the top 3 students, teachers and helpers teams were also awarded gathered for the 22nd National Methodist College Kuala Bible Knowledge (BK) Quiz 2018. Lumpur scholarships. The host school committee led The top 10 winners of the by Mdm Margaret Lim and Mdm BK 18 Quiz from each Tan Jin Ngie made excellent Form received trophies. preparation to welcome 498 All participants received students (56 students of 28 BK MCSC certificates. teams and 438 students for Participants at the 22nd National BK Quiz BK 18 Quiz), 60 teachers and The Most Revd Julian parents, 13 quiz invigilators and markers Block A whereas the Oral SPM Quiz Leow, D.D and 2 MCSC Exco members (from Methodist College KL) and other took place in the Brother Philippe Wu presented the prizes to the winners. His supporters of the quiz. Hall. The 28 Oral Quiz teams were the Grace closed the event with a prayer and Regional Winners from Sabah Regional, benediction at 12:30pm. Registration started at 7.00am followed Sarawak Regional, Northern Regional, by breakfast. The morning assembly Southern Regional and Central Regional. The Regional and National BK Quiz and was held at the open car park, the official The panel of judges comprised Dr Wong BK 18 Quiz is organised annually by assembly area of the school. Praise and Chow Lan (from Perak), Mdm Jagan MCSC and co-sponsored by Methodist Worship was led by students from the Anand (Melaka), Dr Sii Ling (Sarawak), Mr College KL and Scripture Union (SU). Wesley Methodist KL International School. Marcus Khoo (Sabah) and Mrs Christina Contributions are also received from Revd Father Alvin Ho SJ, Exco member Andrew (KL). There were tense moments churches and parishes. Next year’s Quiz of MCSC said the opening prayer. Miss as well as bursts of laughter as both the dates are as follows: Regional Level Quiz Tay Choon Neo, the General Secretary participants and audience enjoyed the on 29 June 2019 and National Level of the Malayan Christian Schools’ challenging questions. Quiz on 3 August 2019. For information Council (MCSC) gave the opening on the National BK Quiz 2019 check out address. Participants then moved to their It was indeed the most memorable day for Scripture Union website (www.su.org) respective quiz venues. The National SMK Tinggi St. David, the only Anglican and the Teachers’ Christian Fellowship 19 BK 18 Written Quiz was conducted in school in Melaka and the first Anglican (TCF) website (www.tcfmy.org). AM Module 1: June 3-8

A Missional Hermeneutic of the Old and New Testament Module 2: June 10-16 This module aims: • to explore the theme of evangelistic mission in the Old Testament Gospel, Culture and Integral Mission • to understand the meta-narrative of the Old Testament and how that intersects with mission • to understand the plan and purpose of God from the beginning for mission In this module we will reflect on culture, what it is, how to understand other cultures, and how to discover and under- • to encourage interaction, the exchange of viewpoints and ideas stand God in those cultures. How can we witness to the Gospel in different cultures? How can we live and work in a • to be strengthened in our commitment from scripture for mission to the nations cross-cultural situation? We will also reflect on how the Gospel relates specifcally to the poor and the marginalized. • to survey the theme of mission in the New Testament, with particular attention to the Gospels, Acts and selected Jesus announces that he is to preach good news to the poor. With over 2000 verses in the Bible referring to the poor letters of Paul and vulnerable in relation to justice and compassion, we are compelled to do and practise a theology where the poor • to understand the plan and purpose of God in the New Testament, paying particular attention to the inclusion of the and vulnerable are always present and accounted for. Gentiles • to examine how the early church deals with conflicts and issues pertaining to the inclusion of Gentiles in God’s (Conducted by : Berdine van den Toren-Lekkerkerker, CMS Mission Partner for mission education in Africa mission and Asia) • to explore how we could be strengthened in our commitment for mission to the nations With an exposure trip to Migrant Ministries in an urban setting (Conducted by : Dr Kyle Essary, lecturer in biblical studies at a seminary in Southeast Asia Rev Victor Lee Tat Yan, President of Bible College of Malaysia)

With an exposure trip to Hindu temple in Seremban Module 4: June 24-28

Critical Issues in Asian Mission Module 3: June 17-22 This module identifes and critically surveys the contemporary issues and tensions involved in the theoretical and practical outworking of God’s mission in the Asian context. These include issues in mission theology, the local church Gospel in the Pluralistic Society and mission, contextualization, leadership, education, unreached people groups, partnerships and money in mission, globalisation, migration, urbanisation and violence in mission. All the major religions in the world see its beginning and roots in Asia. All have claims from their own revered scriptures which guides humanity on all aspects of life from birth, death and the attainment of eternity. Negating these (Conducted by : Dr Cheong Weng Kit, lecturer in missiology and intercultural studies at a seminary in religious belief systems and presenting Christ as the only way has become offensive. The challenge before us is can Southeast Asia this offensive dimension be removed altogether? The danger of a relative perspective of religion like many post mod- Dr Chan Nam Chen, Executive Director of AsiaCMS Dr Peter Nguyen, Assistant Director of AsiaCMS) ernists propose or universalising of religion does harm to the Christian gospel. As theologians and practitioners each generation is on a quest to be honest to the Gospel and also its context. This class is all about fnding a way forward. In partnership with: (Conducted by : Dr Joseph Deva Komar, Missiology lecturer, Malaysia Theological Seminary)

With an exposure trip to Buddhist temple

ABOUT THE LECTURERS

Dr. Kyle Essary Berdine van den Toren - PhD candidate Dr Cheong Weng Kit Dr. Kyle Essary grew up in the United States, (Missiology) CWK Dr Cheong Weng Kit serves at a seminary in although he has also lived in Yemen, China, Berdine grew up in a small rural village in the Southeast Asia as a fulltime lecturer in missiology and and for most of the past decade - Malaysia. Netherlands. Together with her husband and chil- intercultural studies. He has served in various church He is married to Jamie, and God has blessed dren, she moved to the Central African Republic, planting ministries in Southeast Asia and in migrant them with four children - Andrew, Abby, Anna, where they lived and served for eight years at ministries in the U.S.A. He has a PhD in Intercultural and A.J. He serves as a lecturer in biblical the Bangui Evangelical School for Theology, for Studies and he writes on Pentecostalism, work, money studies in Southeast Asia. He has served French speaking Africa. Having moved to Oxford, and mission, globalisation, urban missiology and with a number of churches and plants in both United Kingdom, Berdine joined CMS and worked world religions. the States and Malaysia. He holds a PhD in as the Mission Education advisor. Now, living in biblical studies and focuses his research on the Netherlands again, she has become a CMS Old Testament narrative, cultural identity in Mission Partner, to support Missiological and Dr Chan Nam Chen Genesis, and biblical theology. Theological Education in Africa and Asia. Dr Chan Nam Chen serves as the executive director of AsiaCMS. He is a practitioner who also serves Berdine has been Asia Gateway lecturer in as a denominational leader in his home country of Rev Victor Lee Tat Yan ‘Gospel and Culture’ for the past 5 years. The Malaysia, and as a seminary lecturer in different Asian Rev Victor Lee serves as the President and impact of her teaching and mentoring on Asia countries. He has a PhD in Intercultural Studies and full-time lecturer of Bible College of Malaysia. Gateway students has been greatly appreciated his expertise is in church and culture, intercultural He is a passionate teacher for churches and consistently for the 5 years. leadership, migration studies and missiology. other seminaries in Malaysia and Cambodia. He specializes on the New Testament with a focus on the Gospel of John and he is Rev Dr Joseph Deva Komar Dr Peter Nguyen currently in the nal stages of completing his Dr Joseph Deva Komar is a pastor with the PN Dr Peter Nguyen serves in AsiaCMS as an advocate PhD with Aberdeen University. He is married Methodist Church working amongst the diaspora for catalytic missiological training in the Asian context to Dr Vicky and they are blessed with a son, Indians in Malaysia for the last 35 years. Presently besides facilitating missional collaborations among Wallace and a daughter, Whilma. doubling up as a lecturer at Malaysia Theological churches in Southeast Asia. He has a PhD in intercul- Seminary specializing in Missiology and Pastoral tural Studies, and he lectures and writes on mission Theology. theology, contextual theology, contextualization and East Asian religions.

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