31 Dec 2023
Dear St Hilda’s Family,
A blessed Year 2024 to you and your loved-ones!
Congratulations to our dear Church as she turns 90! We give thanks to God for watching over her and for watching over all of us, keeping us strong in our faith and giving us his Shalom Peace.
Our theme for 2024 is “In His Footsteps”. We will go through the gospel according to Luke for most of this year. The Lord put the theme and Luke’s gospel on my heart for our church for this special year. It has been many years since we last went through a gospel. The world is becoming more and more ‘enticing’ with all sorts of temptations and new moral concepts. As Christians, we need to go back to the source of our faith, our Lord Jesus Christ. As we draw closer to him, he will guide us by his Holy Spirit and keep us on the path of righteousness.
What comes to mind when you reflect on Jesus’ earthly ministry? For me, it is his miracles, his compassion, his forgiveness, and his life in total surrender to his Father’s will, no compromise! Often, our lives look very different.
“In His Footsteps” means to learn from Jesus afresh, to grow in our commitment and to be fully united in him. The artwork was designed by Jadyn Koh. She was inspired by Jesus walking on water. If we follow him – in faith – we won’t sink, we won’t create our own footsteps, but follow him all the way. The fishing boat in the distance is our goal. We will put down our nets again and receive an abundant harvest. Hallelujah!
The anchor verses for 2024 come from Luke 1:46-47 “My soul magnifies the Lord, and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior.” This is the outcome of a life in the footsteps of Jesus.
It is my prayer that our souls and lives will always magnify the Lord, as individuals and as a church community!
With much love,
Ps Martin
3 Dec 2023
“Look, I am coming soon!” Revelation 22:7a
Dear St Hilda’s Family,
It is my joy to write to you at the beginning of our Advent season. God’s blessings to you and your loved ones!
We have gone through a wonderful year at St Hilda’s. God’s Word took us through the books of Exodus and Revelation, the latter leading us straight into Advent. Our community life has grown so much this year with a record attendance at Church Camp, a Church Family Day full of fun and good food, and a Confirmation Service at our St Hilda’s Day. We thank God for his provision!
The world is still riddled with conflict. We are all praying for a lasting peace in Israel and Palestine. And we know that the Lord hears our prayers. May Advent and Christmas be a time when conflicts pause and peace enters homes.
Our theme for the season this year is ‘Hope for a New Beginning’. We will go through the 1st chapter of Luke’s gospel. It is packed with Spirit-filled encounters and assuring words from the Lord to a people waiting for a new beginning.
Verse 13: “Do not be afraid, … ; your prayer has been heard.” and verse 37: “For no word from God will ever fail.” God is reminding us that he is ever present in our lives. I sense that this is a promise for those who are going through difficult times, even terminal illness.
Verse 25 “The Lord has done this for me,” … “In these days he has shown his favour and taken away my disgrace among the people.” Many of us are carrying shame. God wants to lead us to a new beginning, free from any form of disgrace.
Verse 50 “His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation.” and verse 69: “He has raised up a horn of salvation for us.” Wonderful promises for St Hilda’s Church that I see fulfilled in so many of our families. God has indeed brought salvation to so many of our loved ones and he will continue to do so!
Verse 65 “All the neighbours were filled with awe, and throughout the hill country of Judea people were talking about all these things.” I give thanks to God that our overseas mission partners and our local diocesan partners know St Hilda’s Church as a channel of God’s blessing for them. Our outreach to the residents of Kg Arang and to the preschool families continues to bring people to the saving knowledge of Jesus. By God’s grace, we will bless our Katong neighbourhood and sing carols of joy with them.
‘Hope for a New Beginning’ … What are you hoping for this Advent, or even for 2024? It is my prayer that we will learn more and more to trust in Jesus as the one who satisfies all our needs. He is ever-present and he is able! Amen.
With much love, Ps Martin
30 Jul 2023
“To him who sits on the throne and to the Lamb be praise and honor and glory and power,
for ever and ever!” The four living creatures said, “Amen,” and the elders fell down and worshiped.” Revelation 5:13-14
Dear St Hilda’s Family,
We are starting a new sermon series on the Book of Revelation today. I am very excited about this sermon series and hope that it will help us to grow more steadfast in our faith.
Some may ask: ‘Why do we preach through this book at this time, or even at all?’
Our theme at St Hilda’s for 2023 is ‘Redeemed to Worship’. In the first half of the year, we preached through Exodus, the book that talks about the redemption of Israel from slavery in Egypt. God brings Israel to Mt Horeb and moulds them into a worshipping community before they continue their journey toward the Promised Land.
We have been redeemed by our Lord Jesus from our sinful past, and – by the power of the Holy Spirit – have been made a people for his own possession. But we are still living in circumstances that challenge us daily in our ability to offer God our unbroken praise.
The Book of Revelation helps us to see the glory of the Triune God amid our daily struggles and encourages us to stand firm in our faith, holding fast to God’s unchanging promises. That was the very purpose why Jesus instructed the Apostle John to write this book to the churches at the end of the 1st century that were suffering under increasing persecution.
The book, even its 1st chapter is one of my favorite parts of the Bible. I respectfully disagree with Martin Luther who thought that the book was too difficult for the average Christian to understand because of its complex imagery and symbolism. This may have been true during his time.
Does the book include complex imagery, even mysteries? Yes. Does the book describe scenes of judgement that could make us fearful? Yes. However, we should not get confused by the symbolism, nor be distracted from the main message of the book, i.e. Christ’s encouragement to the Church to remain faithful. We should allow some mystery to remain instead of trying to understand and explain every detail. And we have no reason to fear judgment because we find our salvation and justification in Christ in whom God’s wrath is satisfied for those who believe.
I particularly like the book’s emphasis on worship, the ‘Worship of the Redeemed’. Those who have been saved and justified by Jesus will one day join in the celestial worship. And if we appreciate the full benefits of being children of the God, we will be able to sing unbroken praises to our God even today. This is my prayer for all of us at St Hilda’s.
The peace of the Lord be with you!
Ps Martin
By the way, we are making study booklets available in the church office to all home cells and individuals who wish to follow the sermon series.
27 Nov 2022
“Therefore, with minds that are alert and fully sober, set your hope on the grace to be brought to you when Jesus Christ is revealed at his coming.” 1 Peter 1:13
Dear St Hilda’s Family,
As 2022 draws to an end, the new year in the church calendar begins with the season of Advent. This is God’s provision for us.
In many ways, this year has been even worse compared to the past two years. Who would have thought? Most of us couldn’t wait to see the light at the end of the Covid tunnel. Many – including myself – thought that once the Covid measures are lifted, we would soon be back to normal, even dismissing the talk about “new normal”. And though 2022 allowed us to freely congregate, even to travel again, our excitement seems short-lived.
The war in the Ukraine has affected us greatly, even though it is so far away. Inflation has sky-rocketed, many economies are in recession. In addition, and closer to home, there are rising tensions between China and Taiwan, ever increasing military provocation by North Korea, and political instability in Malaysia. Our little red dot still seems to be unaffected, but the questions is ‘How long?’
At St Hilda’s, we had many of our friends passing on to glory, and others falling ill, even with serious illnesses like Ps Allison. Covid seems to have taken a higher toll on our general health and strength than we thought.
With all of this, why are we encouraging the church to share the gospel more boldly in these times? Are we neglecting the realities of the people in Singapore and focussing on the spiritual instead?
When we look at Advent as God’s provision for us, we must allow the Holy Spirit to transform us. Instead of being shaped by the grim present age, we look forward to the age to come when Jesus will rule over a new creation. We do so, not with a delusional mind but with one that is alert and sober. It is the reality in our life already, we are redeemed and made new, filled with hope, joy and peace, deeply loved to show love to others. This doesn’t remove us from the realities of the world; we are placed in the midst of it to shine the light of Christ into this broken world. This reminds me of Jesus’ birth in a manger in a harsh and broken world. Hope starts here!
We cannot but bring this saving gospel to those who are living in darkness and fear.
Allow these Advent devotionals to minister to you and your family and allow the Holy Spirit to prepare us for the unfinished task to carry the Good News to the world around us.
The peace of the Lord be with you!
– Ps Martin
30 Oct 2022
Galatians 2:20
“I have been crucified with Christ and I no longer live, but Christ lives in me. The life I now live in the body, I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me.”
Dear St Hilda’s Family,
Blessings to you and your families in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ!
On 11 November 2022, our dear brother Calvin Tan will be ordained as a Deacon. This is a significant day in his life and in the life of St Hilda’s Church. Calvin is a 3rd generation member of St Hilda’s. His wife, Marjorie, and their two adult children, Caitlyn and Brandon, all serve actively in our church.
As an ordinand, Calvin has been preparing for ordination for the past two years, under the close supervision of Bp Titus. He will be ordained with a very large batch of more than 30 brothers, 20+ into diaconate and 10+ into the priesthood, one of them is Revd Chan Phy from Svay Prahoot in Cambodia.
As rigorous as a 2-year preparation with the Bishop may be, God has been preparing Calvin all his life and that includes our church community at St Hilda’s. It shows that we have been acting out our promise that we make at every baptism and confirmation service that we will do our part in discipling each candidate.
St Hilda’s has been presenting many candidates over the years, like Revd Dr Timothy Chong, Revd Steven Lim, Canon Siang Guan, Revd Hwee Leong, to name a few. Well done, dear church family!
I have been asked about the meaning of ordination and the diaconate. Allow me to explain a few aspects of ordination:
11 November is a day of rejoicing. I have served with Calvin Tan for five years and we briefly overlapped at TTC for our theological studies. I have seen the Holy Spirit at work in Calvin. He has grown in many ways over the past years. I have no doubt that the Lord will continue his work in and through Calvin, and that he will be a blessing to any church community.
Let us pray for Calvin, for Revd Chan Phy and for their families.
With much love,
Ps Martin
03 Aug 2022
James 1:12
“Blessed is the one who perseveres under trial because, having stood the test, that person will receive the crown of life that the Lord has promised to those who love him.”
Dear St Hilda’s Family,
Blessings to you and your families in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ!
I would like to share with you some reflections on the ‘Crown of Life’ that James mentions, and also John in Revelation 2:10.
In my sermon on July 9/10, I interpreted this verse not just in the sense that the ‘Crown of Life’ is available to us after we pass on from this world but that it is already available to us because of our faith in Jesus. A faithful member asked me the following week if my interpretation recognized the future tense in the verse. I praise God for our sister. She carefully listened to my sermon, went back to God’s Word during the week, and checked back with me. That is commendable!
It is correct that the ‘Crown of Life’ is mentioned in James and Revelation as something that we will receive from God when we enter into glory, if we persevere under trial (Jam 1:12), even to the point of death (Rev 2:10), and if we love the Lord (Jam 1:12). Both verses suggest that the crown is a reward for us for living in faith.
I have often pondered about this. We know from Scripture that we are saved by grace (Ephesians 2:9) and justified by the blood of Jesus (Romans 5:9). Both verses suggest that it has been sealed for us on the cross in Jesus’ ‘one perfect sacrifice’. This means that our access into glory is guaranteed by Jesus’ sacrificial death on the cross. We can’t add to it ‘so that no one can boast’ (Eph 2:9). We celebrate this truth in many of our worship songs (‘Only by grace can we enter…’).
If this is so, how do we understand the ‘Crown of Life’? Will we all wear some sort of a physical crown in heaven? If it is a reward, who will get it? Are there big crowns and small crowns depending on how well we have done? Will I be counted worthy of a crown? Not sure if you have ever asked yourselves these questions.
My understanding goes back to Eph 2:9: [We have been saved] ‘not by works, so that no one can boast.’ I do not find anything in Scripture suggesting that a reward is waiting for those who excelled in holy living. Even James 1:12 and Revelation 2:10 do not promise the ‘Crown of Life’ as a reward for good works (e.g. multiplying a talent more than others) or for holy living, but for loving God and for remaining faithful, i.e. staying in the faith. If a Christian passes on and was loving God and remained faithful until the end, this Christian would receive the ‘Crown of Life’. This means that it depends on the disposition of our hearts – our faith – rather than on our action.
The author of Hebrews quotes God by saying “But my righteous one will live by faith. And I take no pleasure in the one who shrinks back.” and then concludes “But we do not belong to those who shrink back and are destroyed, but to those who have faith and are saved.” (Heb 10:38-39). Again, the emphasis is on our faith in Jesus. The author knows that the group of believers that he is addressing ‘belong to those who have faith and are saved.’
This is very important for us to understand and to accept. I have met many faithful Christians who – at the end of their life here on earth – wonder if they have done well enough to find acceptance from the Lord. The Bible’s clear message is “Yes, you have done well enough if you love Jesus and accept that he died for your sins!” That’s it. The Bible does not challenge us to become giants of the faith, just to remain faithful. Those who shrink back are those who intentionally walk away from God and do not return in repentance before they pass. For them, destruction awaits. (Heb 10:39).
It is interesting that this question arises in a time when we study Reformation History. The question how a Christian is justified was a key motivation for the reformers. The Roman Church at the time had taught that those who are not doing well in life would need to spend time in purgatory, a holding place, before being admitted to heaven. Luther and others stood up and preached that we are justified by the blood of Jesus. It didn’t take long before Luther was attacked by other reformers for not putting enough emphasis on holy living, a discussion that has remained relevant until today (e.g. hyper-grace).
The point I was trying to make in my sermon is that the ‘Crown of life’ is ours in Christ Jesus. Hallelujah! We shall rejoice over it and ‘wear’ our crown everyday because this is part of our Christian identity and witness. There may be a physical crown for us waiting in heaven. We will only know when we get there.
In the meantime, the Bible spurs us on to live our life for God’s glory, to love one another and our neighbor as ourselves.
“A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” (John 13:34)
With much love!
Ps Martin
20 Feb 2022
Dear St Hilda’s Family,
As you come before the Lord in prayer this week, allow me to share an encouragement how the Lord draws near to us.
My Friday started early with our Men’s Prayer Group. We read Ezekiel 47:1-12 together, the magnificent prophecy of the water flowing from the temple and making everything new, akin to Revelation 22.
I had to leave early to meet a church member with a deep pastoral need. Upon finishing the meeting, I received a call from a Christian friend informing me that his spouse is on her death bed. My next stop was the wake for the mother of a dear brother in Christ.
I was marvelling how the Lord equipped me early in the morning for what was ahead of me. Instead of me crying out to him because of the overwhelming brokenness and need of my friends, God spoke life into me. He assured me through his Word that his kingdom will not be marred by brokenness, sickness and death but by an abundant river of the water of life.
We are kingdom-citizens; our Lord is the victorious King!
The Lord knows all our prayer requests, for our diocese, for the world and our nation Singapore, for St Hilda’s Church and those dear to us. As we bring them to the Lord in prayer, let us receive from him the assurance that he cares, for all our requests and for us.
Almighty and everlasting God,
You are always more ready to hear than we to pray and give more than either we desire or deserve.
Pour down upon us the abundance of your mercy, forgiving us those things of which we are not worthy to ask save through the merits and mediation of Jesus Christ your Son our Lord. Amen!
Ps Martin
6 Oct 2021
Psalm 71
“For you have been my hope, Sovereign Lord,
my confidence since my youth.
From birth I have relied on you;
you brought me forth from my mother’s womb.
I will ever praise you.
I have become a sign to many;
you are my strong refuge.
My mouth is filled with your praise,
declaring your splendour all day long.”
Dear St Hilda’s Family,
This past week, the number of daily new Covid-19 infections have risen above 2,000 daily. We are all very concerned and in prayers for our nation, especially for those who have fallen ill. For the first time, the government is encouraging our seniors, age 60 and above, vaccinated, or unvaccinated, not to attend religious gatherings.
How shall we at St Hilda’s respond to this situation? We are a church where most of our regular worshipers are in this age group, even serving actively in church.
To those of you in this age group, you are contributing so much, and your service is greatly appreciated. We value the time and effort you give in service of Christ. Thank you for inspiring the younger generation to commit their God-given gifts in service and ministry in the church. As the psalmist says: ‘You have become a sign to many!’. At the same time, we are concerned for your well-being and the safety and protection of your whole family.
Should we ask you to stay at home? This doesn’t feel right. You are in the best position to take this decision. Should we rely on you to serve as volunteers during this time? This doesn’t feel right, either, even if you would be glad to serve. Some of you would still feel obligated because you are so conscientious in your service. For some of you, your family members would consider the church irresponsible.
We therefore took the decision to invite only those 59 and below to serve over the next few weekends until October 24. Having said this, all worshipers are warmly welcome to join our services in church, regardless of age or vaccination status! (except for E1 which is for the vaccinated, only)
I have learned during my years in church ministry that however careful I am in choosing my words, there is always room for misunderstanding. I hope and pray that you understand how difficult it is for me to take any decision that limits the way we worship, serve and fellowship together in church. I can’t wait to see all generations at St Hilda’s Church to joyfully serve the Lord and one another together.
“As for me, I will always have hope; I will praise you more and more.” May these words of the psalmist be an expression of our joy in worshiping together!
With much love!
Ps Martin
15 Aug 2021
Starting from next Sunday Aug 22, only our E1 service will accommodate up to 100 worshippers.
Under the government’s Safe Management Measures (SMM), all those who wish to attend this service will need to be fully vaccinated according to MOH certification or be officially exempted.
Please bring your Trace Together App, your token, or your vaccination certificate to enable verification of your vaccination status.
As we are not allowed to record your vaccination status, we will need to validate it every time you come to worship at E1. Please bear with us. We appreciate your understanding.
However, all other services, E2, E3 and SES will remain the same ie. each capped at 50 worshippers subject to safe distancing requirements. Also, there will be no need to verify your vaccination status.
18 May 2021
Dear St Hilda’s Church Family,
After much prayer and deliberation, I would like to share with you how our regular services will look like over the next few weeks under Phase 2 (heightened alert).
Even as we are worshipping online, let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds, not giving up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing, but encouraging one another—and all the more as you see the Day approaching. (Heb 10:24-25)
Please continue to pray for our nation and for our church in this time!
With much love,
Ps Martin
15 May 2021
Dear St Hilda’s Church Family,
Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus!
Following today’s government announcement, we have decided to still offer onsite service this weekend as follows:
As the situation is still very fluid and we are still waiting for an advisory from MCCY, we will inform the church again on Tuesday how we will plan for the coming weeks.
Online Holy Communion service is available at 5pm on Saturday, online non-HC services from 8am on Sunday on our YouTube channel bit.ly/shconline.
We are aware that other churches are closing their onsite ministry altogether. St Hilda’s aims to offer onsite services in a safe manner. While we recognize the importance of worshiping God together in church, even in this time, we encourage you to stay at home as much as possible to support the governments aim to mitigate the risk of further community spread of COVID-19.
Please pray for our nation and for our church, kindergarten, community services and schools!
With much love,
Ps Martin
28 Mar 2021
Church members volunteered to clean various parts of St Hilda’s church and prepare for Palm Sunday in the week of 22 March 2021.
7 Feb 2021
Holy Communion Services every second Tuesday of the month at the Sanctuary at 2.00 pm will continue until further notice. This is because COVID-19 restrictions on size of participation are still in place.
Please register your names for 9 Feb, 9 Mar and 13 Apr services with the Church Office at Tel: 63443463 to facilitate catering purposes.
19 Dec 2020
NOTE FROM OUR VICAR DESIGNATE, Ps MARTIN JUNGNICKEL
Dear St Hilda’s Family,
Greetings to you in the name of our Lord Jesus!
As we are approaching the year 2021, we are looking forward to the ‘New Normal’. But first, we will enter ‘Phase 3’ together. We thank God for protecting Singapore from further waves of Covid-19 and pray that he will continue to keep us safe.
I want to inform you with this letter about our plans for our church services in Phase 3. The government announced that from Dec 28, churches are allowed to gather with up 250 worshippers in one or multiple services at any given point in time. However, we still need to remain in zones of 50 and the distances within and between the zones will be the same. This means that the maximum seating capacity in each of our halls remains unchanged, i.e. 100 worshippers in the Church Sanctuary, 100 in Bethel Hall and 50 in Joshua Hall. We are also mindful of the culture at St Hilda’s where – for regular services – we are not used to worshipping in overflow venues, following the service on a screen. We have done so in the past for exceptional services, only, e.g. for Christmas or for Vicar’s Induction services.
We will therefore continue to offer four services per weekend, all of them with a capacity of 100 worshippers:
The major change here is the re-introduction of our E2 service and the discontinuation of the Sunday 5:00pm service. December 27 will be the last service on Sunday at 5:00pm and January 3 will be our first E2 service on Sunday at 10:15am. We praise the Lord for the way he used our Sunday 5pm service to minister to us in this special times and we thank him for allowing us to bring back our E2 service!
For those of you who prefer to continue worshipping at home, we will continue to live-stream the Saturday 5:00pm Holy Communion service and will upload the same service without the Holy Communion segment from Sunday 8:00am onwards. Bishop Titus’ dispensation for online Holy Communion is valid until January 31. We will update you of any changes going forward.
I also want to take this opportunity to inform you about the upcoming highlights in January.
Looking beyond January, we will have our Confirmation Service on February 6 and the Vicar’s Induction Service on March 7.
May our good Lord bless you and your family richly over Christmas!
With much love,
Ps Martin
‘She will give birth to a son, and you shall call his name Jesus, for he will save his people from their sins.’ (Matthew 1:21)
Dear Brothers and Sisters-in-Christ
We are sorry for not keeping you updated these past six months. We have been looking forward to being able to come together again for our monthly talks in the near future.
We are, however, still in the dark whether we will be able to. Meanwhile, we would like to share something with you.
There may be among our worshippers, families and friends a preference to partake of Holy Communion on a weekday afternoon, instead of the weekends.
We plan to trial this for the months of November and December 2020, and January 2021.
Holy Communion will take place at the Sanctuary from 2.00pm to 3.00pm every 2nd Tuesday of these three months.
Sign up is required for this new normal if you are interested to participate in Holy Communion on Tuesdays 10 Nov, 8 Dec, 12 Jan. Please call at Tel: 63443463 to register your names with the Church Office.
May the LORD continue to watch over you and your loved ones.
– The Meeting Place Team
(a) From 10th October 2020, we can accommodate up to 100 worshippers in each service.
(b) The church sanctuary will be divided into two zones of 50 worshippers.
Let us all do our part by following the directions of our ushers and those helping with screening and with directing the flow.
We thank God for the possibility to worship in church as a larger congregation. We pray for his blessing and protection in this time
4 Oct 2020
Parenting our teenage children is a joy and a challenge at the same time. We want to prepare them well for life. This course will help us to:
Join us on Zoom for 5 engaging sessions.
Wednesdays, Oct 14 – Nov 11
8:00pm – 10:00pm
Facilitators: Brian & Meng Choo, Ps Martin & Jo Anne
Course fee: $20/couple
Please register with Ms Calrien Wong by calling the church office or email calrien@sthildas.org.sg.
Bishop-designate Canon Dr Titus Chung has decided on the following postings:
Please lift up our pastors to the Lord in prayer.
1. Pray for Vicar as he directs his focus to the work of Diocese in the new year. Ask for God’s presence to defend and protect Vicar physically and spiritually as he shapes and strengthens the diverse chaplaincies of SACS and SAMH. May the Lord use Ps Tak Meng for the glory and extension of His kingdom. Bless Ps Tak Meng and Leng Leng with fullness of His joy in their expanded faith community and areas of service.
2. Pray for Ps Martin as he takes over the baton from Ps Tak Meng on 11 January 2021. Ask for the Lord’s divine empowerment and favour as he steers the St Hilda’s Church into a new normal post COVID-19.
Pray for God’s special anointing to be upon Ps Martin as he shepherds the flock to be a community of disciples full of faith, hope and love. Bless Ps Martin and Jo Anne and the family with God’s abundant love and grace in a new season.
3. Pray for Ps Calvin Wee as God prepares him to serve at St Hilda’s Church. Pray for unity of hearts among the pastoral staff, the lay leaders and the congregations, that there will be oneness in Christ, sharing God’s love and His Word amongst the communities that the Lord has placed St Hilda’s in. Bless Ps Calvin Wee and Grace and the family with God’s peace and confidence in this time of transition.
Thanksgiving Service for Bishop Rennis on 30 August 2020. The video is ready for viewing. A separate video (in Parts A and B) looks at his episcopacy over the period 2012-2020. You may view the videos directly from the Diocese of Singapore YouTube links:
Service:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zzTTP9yySEY
Testimonial Video A:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ViiKZ4o6ZOY&t=16s
Testimonial Video B:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qvmzA3U-X1E
With the retirement of Bishop Rennis Ponniah on 30th August 2020, Archbishop Melter Tais has appointed Bishop Low Jee King as the Vicar General of our Diocese for the period from 30 August to 17 October 2020, until the Consecration and Enthronement of Bishop-designate Rev Canon Dr Titus Chung as the Diocesan Bishop on 18 October 2020. We thank God for Bishop Rennis’ 8 years of faithful service as our Diocesan Bishop. Please keep Bishop Rennis, Mrs Amir and family in your prayer during this time of transition.
Please also keep Bishop Jee King and his family in your prayer as he serves as the Vicar General; and also Bishop-designate Titus and his family as he prepares himself to for the Consecration and Enthronement as the 10th Bishop of Singapore on 18 October.
Please be reminded that SHC has an Online Holy Communion Service every Saturday at 5.00 pm at which you may partake of Holy Communion at home.
The link for the service is: bit.ly/shconline.
If you would like to have online Holy Communion with us, please prepare your hearts and provide sufficient bread and wine/juice in advance for everyone who will be partaking with you.
May our Lord Jesus Christ bless and strengthen you as we commune with Him as one united Body.
— Ps Tak Meng and Ps Martin
26 Jul 2020
in Phase Two of The Resumption of More Religious Activities
Weekly Holy Communion Church Services in the church sanctuary:
Limit for each service – 50 worshippers.
Please call the church office or log on to
bit.ly/shcservice to make your booking.
Livestream Holy Communion Services will be available on Saturdays at 5pm (wef 8 August 2020)
YouTube channel: bit.ly/shconline
Online (Non Holy Communion) Services is available from Sunday.
YouTube channel: bit.ly/shconline
The podcast (audio of the sermon only) will be available from Tuesday.
Podcast: https://sthildas.org.sg/glory-to-god/podcasts/
The church sanctuary is open to everybody to pray and worship (without singing) during the week for up to 45mins, alone or in groups of max 5 people. You may book your time slot by calling the church office at 63443463.
Schedule:
Resumption of Church Worship and Activities
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ
Greetings in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ!
I hope you have been keeping safe and well, trusting and growing in Christ as we go through this pandemic together.
As you know by now, Singapore has entered Phase Two of Re-opening since 19 June 2020. The Ministry of Community, Culture and Youth (MCCY) has permitted churches to resume Congregational Worship and other activities in small numbers at first, increasing in steps over the course of Phase Two.
The church office has re-opened on 22 June.
Our Holy Communion services will resume weekly in the Sanctuary from Sat 4 Jul and Sun 5 Jul 2020 onwards:
English | English | Mandarin | English |
Sat 5pm (with Children Ministry) | Sun 8am | Sun 10.30am | Sun 5pm |
We will observe the following precautions to keep one another safe:
a. For a start, worship services are limited to only 50 attendees at a time. To prevent over-crowding, please make a booking before each service, preferably online at bit.ly/shcservice, or by calling the church at 6344 3463.
b. Church premises will be professionally cleaned according to regulations on a daily basis. Between sessions, high touch areas will be cleaned and the hall will be ventilated.
c. Please check-in/check-out with SafeEntry using your smartphone or NRIC (like you do in supermarkets). We will take your temperature before entry.
d. Please wear a mask and maintain a safe distance of 1 metre from one another (except family members) at all times. Ushers will guide you to be seated safely.
e. There will be no singing in the initial weeks. Instead we will have instrumental or pre-recorded music, as well as responsive psalm readings for worship.
f. We will have Holy Communion in a non-contact manner, standing in designated positions to ensure safe distancing. Please keep your mask on except the brief moment when you consume the bread and wine.
g. Please refrain from crowding at all times, and do not linger after the service.
The service timings above may be reviewed in accordance with future MCCY Advisories on the permitted number of attendees. 6. As the number of places for in-person worship is limited, St Hilda’s online services will continue to be available every Sunday morning at 8am at bit.ly/shconline.
Other activities are also permitted to resume in church, e.g., cell groups, bible study groups, counselling, youth groups, flower arrangement, prayer meetings, committee and project meetings, etc.
We are required to limit the combined total attendance to 50 (excluding leaders and team). The leaders of each activity will inform the regular participants of their plans after they have worked out the room bookings with the church office, to ensure safe-distancing and to manage the combined attendance.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) has also advised that there are two vulnerable groups of people during this pandemic: (a) people aged 60 and above, and (b) people with chronic health conditions regardless of age.
MOH advised people in these groups to practise good personal hygiene, keep up with their treatment and medications, and avoid crowds and close contact with people who are unwell. They should monitor their health closely and seek medical attention early if they are unwell.
Please be assured that St Hilda’s is taking every precaution as per official advisories to make sure our services and activities are safe for our members, especially to avoid creating a crowd, and to screen unwell persons from participation.
As a people living by faith and not in fear, each of us is nonetheless responsible as responsible stewards of our own health. I trust that each of you will consider your situation and make an informed and prayerful decision about participating or serving in any church activity. We will fully respect and support your decision.
Let us continue to worship the Lord, whether in church or at home. Let us continue to connect with one another as a community so that we can grow in faith, hope and love. May the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you always!
Love in Christ
Pastor Tak Meng
Vicar
24 Jun 2020
Under the government’s Phase 2 plan to re-open Singapore, places of worship may resume limited services gradually as follows:
Weekly Holy Communion Church Services will resume on Saturday, 4 July / Sunday 5 July 2020 in the church sanctuary.
New Service Times:
Limit for each service – 50 worshippers. Please call the church office to make your bookings.
Scheduled Worship
Up to 5 pax from the same household may pray and worship together (without singing) in the church sanctuary for up to 45mins on designated days and time slots. There will be no private worship on Sundays and Mondays.
Booking is required. You may book your time slot by calling the church office at 63443463.
(Please see *schedule below)
A pastor will be available to guide you if you require assistance.
*Schedule:
Virtual Weekly Services and Podcasts
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, St Hilda’s weekly congregational Sunday services will continue to be streamed on YouTube at 8.00 am on this link in our Website.
In addition, the latest sermon podcasts will be available on our website every Sunday.
http://sthildas.org.sg/glory-to-god/podcasts/
God bless you and your loved ones!
“Living In The Power Of The Resurrection”
Online Services at http://bit.ly/shcyoutubelive
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, from this Sunday, St Hilda’s weekly Sunday services will be available at 8.00 am on this link in our Website.
http://bit.ly/shconline
In addition, the sermon podcast will be available on our website on Tuesdays
http://sthildas.org.sg/glory-to-god/podcasts/
God bless you and your loved ones!
28 Mar 2020
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, from tomorrow 29 March 2020, St Hilda’s weekly Sunday services will be available at 8.00am on this link in our Website.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmQlFzu7LK8juC3ohLs6QWw
In addition, the sermon podcast will be available on our website on Tuesdays
http://sthildas.org.sg/glory-to-god/podcasts/
God bless you and your loved ones!
Ps Martin
FAITH BOOSTER
Matthew 17:1-13
Deuteronomy 18:15-19
21 Mar 2020
Dear St Hilda’s Family,
Our Bishop Rennis Ponniah has taken the decision that all church services and gatherings will be suspended for two weeks. This means that we will not have church services on March 22 and 29.
We want to care for you in this difficult time. And we encourage you to worship from home. We will broadcast a service for your participation on both Sundays.
Please join the St Hilda’s YouTube channel by clicking on this link http://bit.ly/shcyoutubelive. For tomorrow, You will see “St Hilda’s Church Service on March 22” at the bottom of the page. Please click on it to follow the livestream. The service will begin at 8:00 am and can be viewed live or any time after that.
The link to our YouTube channel will also be available on the St Hilda’s Church Facebook page.
Please contact the church if you need pastoral care, e.g. to receive Holy Communion. We will celebrate with you at home.
Let us continue to pray for one another.
With much love,
Ps Martin Jungnickel
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ
Please take note that with immediate effect, ALL regular worship services and gatherings in St Hilda’s will be suspended until 3 April 2020. We intend to resume all services on the weekend of 4 and 5 April, the start of Holy Week.
This will also apply to all other Anglican parishes in Singapore.
In his pastoral letter yesterday, Bishop Rennis Ponniah said that the prayerful decision to suspend all our parish worship services was made to intentionally create a two-week break in church gatherings. We have closely monitored the escalating COVID-19 situation and make this contribution towards the concerted national effort to ‘flatten the curve’ of its spread. Our churches will make the needful pastoral provisions to continue caring for and strengthening the flock during this time. Provisions will include various measures such as online weekend services through livestreaming for parishioners to worship God.
The Bishop encouraged their members to be a blessing to others in society, especially those in need. He ended with a prayer that our nation may be divinely helped to overcome this crisis.
Across the Diocese of Singapore, all worshippers aged 70 and above are advised to worship from home from 14 to 24 March 2020. Parishioners who are unwell or vulnerable with other medical conditions should also worship from home as well through live streaming of our services.
This is to enhance social distancing, not for fear that they would bring coronavirus to the church. We are also doing this out of love and concern to protect them from catching any illness.
Please refer to the Bishop’s Advisory below for all Anglican Churches for more details.
The response of St Hilda’s Church to the COVID19 outbreak, as guided by the Advisory by the Diocese given to Clergy, Deaconesses and Church Leaders, is as follows:
1. We will continue all regular essential activities including Sunday Services, children ministry and cell groups with the necessary precautions.
2. Members who are unwell are advised to stay home, seek medical attention and rest. Please do not feel guilty about being absent from church. They can follow the sermons on podcast, and soon, live-streaming of services.
3. All church and cell activities should have pre-event screening (temperature taking, attendance and contact registration, health and contact declaration).
4. Stay in touch with official information from church. Verify information with leadership before sharing on chat groups and social media.
5. Do not discriminate against people from China and healthcare workers.
6. Pray, pray and pray – for faith, hope and love!
– Vicar Tak Meng and SHC Leadership Team
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ and Friends
Please note that Services and Ministries such as Sunday School will continue as normal. Strict control protocols, such as temperature-taking and contact-tracing, will still be in place.
If you should feel unwell in any way, please rest at home, and wear your mask if you decide to consult a doctor. Please do call church admin if you need pastoral support. God bless.
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ
We regret to advise that our planned food health talk by Brother Keith Lim, scheduled for this coming Tuesday 18 February, has been deferred.
We are sorry if this has caused you any inconvenience. We will definitely bring it back.
Our pipeline of interesting monthly talks by mostly external presenters for The Meeting Place has already been firmed up for the rest of the year.
However, we are reviewing the schedule with the speakers themselves in light of COVID-19. Key to this is how we can ensure a reasonable turnout by members at these sessions to appreciate and respect their time.
In the meantime, let us continue to praise and worship the LORD without anxiety and disquiet, trusting in His goodness and care for us.
Thank you for your understanding.
Much love,
The Meeting Place team
5 Feb 2020
We are pleased to inform you that the Provincial House of Bishops has appointed Rev Canon Dr Titus Chung, aged 55 years, as the tenth Bishop of Singapore.
Canon Titus is currently the Priest-in-charge of St Andrew’s Cathedral Mandarin Congregation. He is also the Convenor of Continuing Ministerial Education for Clergy & Deaconesses in the diocese, and a member of the Senior Clergy Planning Team. Canon Titus was ordained in our Diocese in 1997. He is married to Connie and they have 2 sons in their twenties, Theodore and Thaddeus.
Canon Titus will be consecrated and installed on Sunday 18 October 2020 at St Andrew’s Cathedral. We ask for your prayers for him and his family as they prepare for this new appointment and the taking over of a new role with new responsibilities. Pray fervently with these Scriptures in mind: Num 27:16; Jer 3:15 & 2 Tim 4:1-2.
Together for God’s glory
The Rt Rev Rennis Ponniah
Bishop of Singapore
31 Jan 2020
24 Dec 2019
For the first time in years, St Hilda’s held an evening Christmas Eve Family Service at Bethel Hall. The hall was almost filled to capacity filled with children, parents and grandparents.
It was a joyous chaotic affair, but everyone, including the children, enjoyed themselves thoroughly.
It was a church family come to life, to the glory our Lord Jesus!
16 Jun 2019
Church Camp was different this year. Nearly 200 church members from the three services participated.
20 Jan 2019
Because of extended renovations, the Sanctuary and parts of church premises will continue to be closed until further notice. Services will continue to be as follows:
English Services (Sunday)
8 am – Worship Service (E1) at Bethel Hall
10.15am – Worship Service (E2) at Bethel Hall
10.15am – Youths, Young Adults and Families Service (E3) at Joshua Hall
Mandarin (Sunday)
2 pm – Worship Service at Joshua Hall
Hokkien (Saturday)
3.30pm – Worship Service at Joshua Hall
2 December 2018
The literal meaning of “advent” is “coming” or “arrival”. During this time, we look back to the first coming of Jesus Christ and look forward to his second coming. Jesus came to show us God’s Kingdom and to bring forgiveness of sins and eternal life to those who believe in him. He will come again in power and authority to receive the church and to judge the nations.
Advent marks the beginning of the Church Year. It lasts for four Sundays, ending on Christmas eve.
Advent is a spiritual journey that Christians take through passages of Scripture that point to the birth of the Messiah, to a reaffirmation that he has come, is here and will come again in glory. It mirrors the journey of faith that Christians take as we look forward to our own destination, which is to be in his presence forever!
We observe Advent as a time of reflection and anticipation that Jesus has already arrived and look forward to that great Second Advent of the Lord! You will find a short devotion for your meditation each week.
24 September 2018
Because of extended renovations, the Sanctuary and parts of church premises will continue to be closed until further notice. Services will continue to be as follows:
English Services (Sunday)
8 am – Worship Service (E1) at Bethel Hall
10.15am – Worship Service (E2) at Bethel Hall
10.15am – Youths, Young Adults and Families Service (E3) at Joshua Hall
Mandarin (Sunday)
2 pm – Worship Service at Joshua Hall
Hokkien (Saturday)
3.30pm – Worship Service at Joshua Hall
15 April 2018
Friday, 8th June to Monday, 11 June
At Double Tree Hilton Hotel, Melaka
Theme: “Preparing for Revival”
Speaker: Ven Dr Godwin Makabi
Sign up fast if you intend to go!
Closing Date: 6 May 2018
18 February 2018
18 Feb 2018 • Christ Made Himself Nothing
Phil 2:1-13; Matt 27:27-31 • Rev Martin Jungnickel
25 Feb 2018 • Christ turned Tragedy into Triumph
Col 2:8-15; Matt 27:32-45 • Pastor Wendy Yong
4 Mar 2018 • Christ turned Shame into Solvation
Heb 12:1-2; Rom 1:16-17; John 12:27-33 • Vicar Wong Tak Meng
11 Mar 2018 • Christ crucified: Power and Wisdom of God
1 Cor 1:18-31; Luke 16:19-31 • Vicar Wong Tak Meng
18 Mar 2018 • Christ: for every Nation, Tribe and Tongue
Rev 7:9-`7; Jphn 10:14-18; 20:19-21 • Samuel Ratnam
25 Mar 2018 (Palm Sunday) • The Lord has need of you
Zech 9:9-11; Luke 19:28-40 • Rev Martin Jungnickel
26 November 2017
One of the things I love about the Church Calendar is that it marks out the year not by the weather or the different sales that come our way, but in terms of God’s great acts of love to save us from sin and bring us home to Himself—from the birth of Christ, to His life, death and resurrection, and His coming again to be King forever.
Very soon, next Sunday in fact, we are going to start a brand new Church Year with the season of Advent. We will remember how dark, broken and empty our lives were when we were far away from God. Against that backdrop, we will recapture each week God’s light breaking through to give us hope—the hope of Love, Joy and Peace.
This year, Rev Martin has prepared a wonderful Advent sermon series around those three wonderful words—Love, Joy and Peace—and the cry of all the saints, “Come, Jesus, Come!”.
That’s why I am writing this Pre-Advent Pastoral Letter, to encourage you to make this Advent and Christmas not just a season of busyness, festivities and consumption, but one of spiritual growth. Not just for yourself, but also your family—children and grandchildren together.
How can we do that?
Weekly Family Advent Devotions. Set apart an evening a week from 3 Dec through to Christmas Day, with your family, children and even grandchildren. Pastor Wendy has lovingly prepared for you a Family Advent Devotional Booklet (ready on 3 Dec). You will find instructions to create your own family Advent Wreath. You will have a weekly devotional Scripture reading, a prayer and a specially-chosen Christmas carol that the whole family can sing together. With just 10 minutes a week in Advent, you will be amazed how God draws your family together, and how your children and grandchildren will catch the Love, Joy and Peace of Jesus. This is Faith in Family at work!
Spend Time with a Friend (or five friends!). Christmas is about God sharing life with us as an innocent baby. The miracle of God sharing human life began nine months before Jesus was born. In the same way, we can use Advent to catch up with a friend even before Christmas. Share a cup of coffee, share a memorable moment, share a laugh or shed a tear—whatever, just share each other. Show that you care. Because God cares. And take the opportunity to invite your friend to our Christmas Eve Service starting 10pm ending past midnight, to receive the Love, Joy and Peace of Jesus. Because you care.
Help Advance His Kingdom. Christ will come again when all the world has heard the Gospel of His salvation (Matt 24:13). We can hasten that day by building bridges to the unsaved. How? In Advent, start praying daily for friends who don’t know Jesus yet. Pray for our Mission Trip to Cambodia (7-12 Dec). Make a donation to the Hope Anglican Centre (a.k.a. Svay Rieng Education Centre) for educational, medical and community outreach in the name of Christ. Plan for a mission trip in 2018 (check dates with Sonny Yap or the church office).
Have a very blessed and fruitful ADVENT 2017!
– Pastor Tak Meng
17 November 2017
by Vicar Wong Tak Meng
Today, the Church remembers Hilda of Whitby (c. 614-680), the princess who became a refugee, who became a mother of faith, the advocate for education, the encourager of young shepherd-poet Caedmon, the carer of the sick and needy, the promoter of harmony and the founder of communities of the faithful until her final breath.
16 October 2017
Church members aged 13 years and above are asked to please participate in this initiative. It will help your church to plan programmes that will be more meaningful for you, better serve your family life needs, and provide life stage-specific discipleship and pastoral care.
It is simple:
Visit: www.wholelife.sg/inventory > Click: Take The Whole Life Inventory > Enter Access Code: shc
All responses are anonymous.
26 September 2017
Almost four years to the day when Ps David Lee came to us, he will be leaving St Hilda’s to shepherd the flock in another parish in October.
On September 24 Sunday, during combined service, Ps David Lee, Veron and children Ally and Clara quietly and movingly sang the Aaronic blessing over the church before leaving “where our hearts will always be”.
The Lord bless you and keep you;
the Lord make his face shine upon you,
and be gracious unto you;
the Lord lift up his countenance upon you
and give you his peace.
In return, St Hilda’s warriors for Christ gave them a rousing send off with an uplifting and heartfelt army chant to bless their going (See Video).
As one church member noted: “Clergy who are assigned to St Hilda’s come with fear and trepidation. Such is our fearsome reputation, deserved or not. But they will soon discover that when they give us their heart, we return it a thousand times more.”
Praise God. The Lord be always with you Ps David, Veron, Ally and Clara!
25 July 2017
On 9 August 2017, from 9am to 12.30 pm, singles, married couples with or without children and seniors are invited to join in a symposium organised by St hilda’s Church.
To be held in Bethel Hall, the symposium will help participants strengthen relationships between husbands and wives, as well as parents and children.
By building God-rooted and God-centred families, we can stem the tide of the devil’s assaults on our families.
You will receive fresh insights into the state of families in Singapore and the need for a holistic approach to live out our faith grounded at home.
Speakers are St Hilda’s Vicar Wong Tuck Meng, and Pastors Ben and Dinah Lee, from Focus on the Family.
Register at the church office on 41 Ceylon Road, Singapore 429630.
18 Jun 2017
Church Camp, June 2017, Kuala Lumpur.
When Brother David Soh announced early in the year that Church Camp was going to be in the heart of KL, heart beats shot up. S H O P P I N G!
E A T I N G! YAY YAY YAY!
Little did our 200 members from St Hilda’s English and Chinese congregations, who signed up, know they were in for something even bigger and better!
In a carefully prepared programme, the Lord used Vicar Tak Meng to bring home to camp participants the message: Walk deeper in the river of life, yield to Me as you would clay in the potter’s hands, and fulfil My destiny for your lives!
In his opening remarks for the camp, vicar said that this year we would focus on spiritual formation. The teaching was spirit-filled and the camp fellowship palpably close.
Church teacher David Chan said in wonder: ”Looking at the programme content, vicar must have spent at least half a year praying and preparing for it.”
No matter. It was also a time for St Hilda’s to warmly welcome in-coming Pastor Martin Jungnickel and his wife Jo Anne. The pastor proved to be a good sport in more ways than one. Wife Jo Anne came away as a caring and friendly person.
There were many touching camp moments and testimonials.
Sister Patricia Chew was among the first to share. She said she saw a vision of purple orchids when vicar shared about waiting upon the LORD. She felt that it meant that the LORD was going to show His blueprint for St Hilda’s.
The vision, Patricia continued, also had several messages which shared a similar theme:
Psalm 127:1
“Unless the Lord builds the house, those who build it labor in vain.”
2 Corinthians 4:7
“But we have this treasure in jars of clay, to show that the surpassing power belongs to God and not to us.”
The vision fitted in well with vicar’s camp teaching: Like a lump of clay we must learn to yield to the LORD and let the Him purposefully and patiently mould us. Then wait for Him to send the Holy Spirit to form each one of us into the likeness of Christ, to empower us to be His witnesses to expand His kingdom!
Participants felt this camp was one of the best they had attended. They came away on fire.
23 Apr 2017
At this meeting in which 21 per cent of the church’s Electoral Roll members participated, St Hilda’s continued to refresh its leadership.
More new young members stepped up to help bring the church forward. The 2017-2018 Parochial Church Council now comprise:
Samuel Ratnam, Vicars Warden
Chan Mun Seng, People’s Warden
Daniel Koh Hock seng, Synod Representative
David Soh Eng Hock, Synod Representative
Iris Chua Hui Hua, Synod Representative
Shirley Tan Soh Kwee, Synod Representative
Sheena Seng Mei Hui, Lay Representative, Secretary
Alice Mia Joo, Lay Representative, Treasurer
John Teo Cheng Lock, Lay Representative
Leng Yaw Owe, Lay Representative
David Tow, Lay Representative
Kevin Cheong Teng Hwee, Lay Representative
Michael Ho Soon Chye, Lay Representative
Khoo See Kiang, Lay Representative
This team of lay leaders will support Vicar Ven. Wong Tak Meng and Pastor Wong Ngian Koy (Chinese).
May the Lord’s hand be upon each PCC team member, guiding them to serve the Church according to His plans doe us! Amen.
9 Apr 2017
St Hilda’s Church’s Annual General Meeting will be held on Sunday 23 April 2017 at 12 noon at Bethel Hall.
There will be one combined English Service at Bethel at 9am that morning, and the Mandarin Service will start at 9.30am
Church members on the Electoral Roll are encouraged to participate in the AGM. Church members may check whether their names are on the Electoral Rolls posted both in Bethel Hall and the Sanctuary. Non-ER members of the church may also attend as observers. All who plan to attend should register with the Admin Office and indicate if they need lunch as well.
This year 8 Lay Representatives are up for nomination and election. Also to be nominated are 4 Synod Representatives and the People’s Warden.
All glory to God.
20 November 2016
Gathered on the lawn
A carpet of brown and auburn leaves
That turns what once was a green space
Into a hue of distinguishing colours
That arrest the eyes and not soothe them
Where did the time go?
Weren’t the leaves a luscious green?
But have now they degraded to a rustic brown
Bleak and lifeless
Gathered in a heap of desolation
Time has progressed
Nature has evolved
Things may appear to seem at their tethering end
Yet nature isn’t linear
But cyclical
And so is the cycle of life
Which every man and woman has to endure
There would be Seasons when we would be sprightly
With a spring in our steps
But as time progresses
We enter into another dimension
of the cycle of life
Where vulnerability and fragility are definitions to our lives
And we may fall like these autumn leaves
And remain in a frigid cold ground
But as the cycle ensues
What may appear as an end
Will soon feed the next seeds of a new generation
As the wisdom of these fallen leaves seep into the thawed ground
They stir new life into existence
And the cycle continues
– A Poem by Ian Poulier
13 November 2016
Greetings, my dear pastors, brothers and sisters in St Hilda’s Church!
I am writing this note at Wheaton College Library, after sharing lunch and taking a walk with Rev Gregory Whitaker and his delightful four daughters in the wooded garden behind their rented house in West Chicago.
Once again, as I have done many times the past two months of my sabbatical, I marvel at the way that God has created the trees – oak, maple, pine – and how they withstand seasons of draught and cold, to continue growing and bearing fruit, season after season.
That is the vision God has given me for myself, and for St Hilda’s Church. We will get on in years, but we are called to keep growing – our roots reaching deeper, our trunk standing stronger, our bark getting thicker, our leaves longing for the sun’s rays, our branches more generously stretched out to the birds of the air. I believe God wants us to be like that tree, rooted in God, healthy, robust, serving God with joy and abundance.
As we celebrate our 82nd Anniversary, may Jeremiah 17:7-8 be our desire and prayer:
“Blessed is the man who trusts in the LORD,
whose trust is the LORD.
He is like a tree planted by water,
that sends out its roots by the stream,
and does not fear when heat comes,
for its leaves remain green,
and is not anxious in the year of drought,
for it does not cease to bear fruit.”
Please join me in prayer, as I spend the rest of my sabbatical in November and December seeking the Lord for our life and ministry ahead, to be “a tree planted by water” that “does not cease to bear fruit”!
Blessed 82nd Anniversary!
Ven Wong Tak Meng
Vicar (on sabbatical)
11 November 2016
Bishop Chiu Ban It went home to the Lord on, 9 Nov 2016, 3.10 pm London time. His wife Bek Neo, and children Michael, Veronica and Cheng were at his bedside. Bp Chiu was the 4th Vicar of St Hilda’s Church from 1952-1955. He became the first Malayan-born Bishop of the Diocese of Singapore and Malaya in 1966. During his time as Bishop the Diocese experienced the touch of the Holy Spirit through the charismatic renewal. The St Hilda’s Family fondly remembers Bp Chiu and his tremendous contribution to St Hilda’s and the Diocese. We would like to extend our deepest condolences to Bp Chiu’s family during this time of bereavement. Bp Chiu has fought the good fight, he has finished the race, he has kept the faith. May his soul rests in peace in the arms of His Master our Lord Jesus Christ.
2 November 2016
On Friday 21 Oct, about 70 church members gathered in Bethel Hall for a Healing Service.
The evening was reverent, worshipful and caring. More than 60 percent of participants asked to be prayed for. Not just for physical healing, but spiritual as well.
The evening was a follow-up on sessions held earlier this year in May when Ps Peter Troung led hundreds in healing prayers.
Healing Services are being planned for once every two months from January next year.
These services will dovetail with a little known small prayer group that meets regularly on every third Sunday from 9am to 9.45am at the Care Lounge, Vicarage. The group prays for people who are known not to be well and those who have requested special prayers. All are welcome to join.
May God continue to manifest His glory during our Healing Services!
9 October 2016
Today, Bishop John Tan confirmed 23 brothers and sisters in our Lord Jesus Christ. He gave them their first Holy Communion. In his exhortation to the church, Bishop Tan reminded us that the Lord’s first miracle has more meaning to it than turning water into wine. There is a deeper spiritual teaching. Not only do we see Christ use show His glory and use His power to change the physical make-up of water into wine, He also has the power to change our lives into something better. He can transform our lives! This is the message that we are apt to miss because the physical change of water to wine is visually more exciting. But His power to touch our lives when we need it is the bigger message.
17 July 2016
Story by Jeremy Sng
St Hilda’s Church is a church family. Everyone is a familiar face – someone somewhere you have seen in church, but can never quite place.
Kyle Koh has been a familiar face for as long as I can remember. I have seen Kyle, 16, around our church for many years but never had the opportunity to actually have a conversation with him.
For those of you who do not know, Kyle is Danny and Serena Koh’s son. Danny and Serena met in St Hilda’s Church a great many years ago (okay, it was not that looong ago) and have three children. Kyle is the eldest, followed by Isabel and Jadyn.
Kyle started drawing back when he was in kindergarten. He started with, in his words, “boyish-sorts of drawings – such as explosions, planes, tanks”.
At that time he did not think those drawings were artistic. He refers to them now as “just doodles”. He simply drew anything that came to mind.
He credits his parents with spotting early his artistic talent – “God’s gift to him”. Kyle has since blossomed into the mature artist we see today.
Kyle’s art is at a different level now. He has crossed over from the minor leagues to the major leagues.
Kyle says his “artworks are inspired by God”, whom he deems to be “the Creator and the ultimate artist”.
Art has been a passion for Kyle. He has never been diverted from it, like some boys who tend to hop from one hobby to another, from drawing to video games to sports, and back again.
Kyle says he never really had any other hobby. By his estimates, he spends an hour or two daily drawing.
Putting this into perspective: As Kyle draws for an hour and a half daily, over the past 10 years, that is about 4,000 hours of practice!
Kyle has amassed a portfolio of some 200 artworks and he has not given any indication that he is slowing down. He is currently designing the logo for the St Hilda’s New Day Ministry, and has received requests from Church members for sketches of the Church.
What is next for Kyle?
This young man is open to wherever God leads him. For now he is considering a course at the Laselle College of the Arts.
We will be looking forward to seeing Kyle’s work in St Hilda’s printed material, or maybe even on our walls.
Who knows, he may even play a part in designing our 100th Anniversary logo!
9 June 2016
About 160 church members, families and friends participated in this year’s church camp in Johor Bahru. Pastor Daniel Koh spoke on Amazing Grace. And it was amazing how grace filled the camp. Participants were agreed this was one of the best camps yet – not only for the message and fellowship but for the hotel rooms, facilities and makan-makan!
May 1 2016
The Meeting Place enjoyed its second module of physio therapy on May 26.
Physio therapists from East Coast Pratitioners came by to help members assess their propensity to fall and taught them various exercises to help them strengthen their limbs. Members were also taught how to recover from falls.
April 1 2016
The Meeting Place will be launched on 12 April to provide a place and time of fellowship for our retirees, seniors and even our still young members in Church. Pre-believers are also welcome. Except for June and December, this tea time fellowship will be held every second and fourth Tuesdays of the month from 2.00 pm till 5.00 pm. Most times, thematic teas will be served alongside worship, devotion, talks, board games, bingo, arts and craft, sing-alongs, film shows, etc. Do come and have a time of fun and worship in Daniel Hall!
Good Friday and Easter are just round the corner. How much there is to look forward to! They remind us that the Lord died for us. They remind us that he defeated death when He rose again to save us from our sins. How great is His love for us!
By the grace of God, I returned yesterday from a fruitful Provincial Synod gathering in Kuala Lumpur. Catching up on news in Singapore, I am led to write pastorally to the Anglican flock entrusted to me as Diocesan Bishop – a responsibility I share with the bishops, priests and deaconesses who serve alongside me.
The public discussion in the media concerning the coming Madonna concert in Singapore surfaces
a) the need for Christians to walk in the light of God that is revealed in Christ Jesus, and also
b) the role of the Church as a faithful witness to the society she is part of. Let me address these briefly in turn.
WALK IN THE LIGHT
We make our choices in the light of holy Scripture and with the strength of the Holy Spirit. Should Christians go to the Madonna concert?
Having come to Jesus Christ for forgiveness of our sins and newness of life, we are to choose to walk in the light and to shun the darkness:
“… God is light; in Him is no darkness at all. If we say we have fellowship with Him while we walk in darkness, we lie and do not practise the truth. But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the blood of Jesus his Son cleanses us from all sin.” (1 John 1:5-7)
As Christians, we are to avoid everything that darkens and defiles our hearts and minds, and that ultimately breaks our fellowship or close communion with God and even with each other. What language, values and images will one expose oneself to at the Madonna concert? What impact will it leave on the attendee’s heart and imagination?
Secondly, the choice is framed for Christians in terms of love for God the Father as against love for “the world”. By “the world” is meant the world organised and opposed to God’s intentions and God’s ways for man: “Do not love the world or the things in the world. If anyone loves the world, the love of the Father is not in him. For all that is in the world—the desires of the flesh and the desires of the eyes and pride of life—is not from the Father but is from the world.” (1 John 2: 15-16 ESV).
We are to exercise our choices in a way that decisively shows that our love for God is greater than our love for what “the world” craves for.
Thirdly, our choices and the conduct that follows affects the witness of Christians before a watching world. How will non-Christians understand the Gospel of Jesus Christ and the lifestyle it calls us to if Christians find “no problem” with attending such a concert? The power of the Cross sets us free to “flee youthful passions and pursue righteousness, faith, love and peace, along with all those who call on the Lord from a pure heart”. (2 Tim 2:22; cf Rom 12:1-2). Will attending the concert convey a Christian’s commitment to the beautiful and holy life Christ Jesus has redeemed us for?
In light of the above, I agree with the biblical exhortation Archbishop William Goh gave to the flock under his care (Straits Times, 23 Feb 2016 and 24 Feb 2016) and his call to them to make their choice on whether to attend the concert with “an informed conscience”. I would like also to call upon each one of you as members of Christ’s one body to encourage “one another daily that none may be hardened by sin’s deceitfulness”. (Heb 3:13).
BEARING WITNESS IN THE SOCIETY
Not only are Christians to order and shape their own lives in the light and pattern of Christ, we are to bear witness to that light in the society we are part of. This includes our responsible participation as a Church in the public square of ideas, discussions and decisions in our society.
In Singapore, our Diocese is part of a registered umbrella organisation of Protestant Churches called the National Council of Churches in Singapore (NCCS). When NCCS learnt of the coming Madonna concert, we made direct representation to Media Development Authority (MDA) to convey our grave concerns about the content of Madonna concerts and its profane use of religious symbols. We were assured in writing that MDA has made clear its terms for allowing the concert to ensure that anything offensive to what is sacred (like the item “Holy Water”) or is religiously insensitive is removed from the content of the coming show in Singapore.
As NCCS leaders, we have also conveyed in private to the authorities who govern and oversee the public space our question on the wisdom of allowing such shows in Singapore in a mass event setting. On the one hand is artistic license and popular appeal. But on the other is an artiste who has chosen to brazenly embody and stridently promote self-indulgent and antinomian (against moral law) values which, in our view, are contrary to the well-being and future of our nation.
In making known our views in appropriate ways at the level of public discourse, we are not forcing our views on others but conveying our faith-based values as fellow-citizens in an intermediary organisation to the national conversation of what is best for Singapore. In taking a position on the Madonna concert, the Church can be cast as being moralistic or arrogantly prescriptive for everybody else. That is not our intention or motivation. The Church is not simply anti-this or anti-that. Rather, we have a God-given role to bear witness to the values that make for life… values that under-gird peoples’ choices.
Finally, life is about choices… choices made by a society, a family and an individual. This is true also for Madonna. The spirit of Christians and of the Church is not to condemn but to invite, admonish and encourage one another, both as fellow-believers and fellow human beings, to make the right decisions for man’s well-being and for the glory of God.
As hot-button issues continue to surface in every society and every age, pray that the Church and the Christian within her fold will be enabled by the Holy Spirit to take a clear, biblical position, to be bold and humble in posture and to be invitational and winsome in witness to the world that God so loved and continues to love (Jn 3:16). We make clear our position, we live our lives authentically and we pray fervently (2 Cor 10:3-5; Eph 6:10-18) so that God’s life-giving reign will be known in the Church and in the nations.
To God be the glory in your life and mine, and in our life together as people redeemed by His grace in Christ Jesus.
We have just published a 24-page mini-book on St Hilda’s Church. It is a snapshot of what our church is, our members, our services and our ministries. This will be used primarily to welcome our guests and first-time visitors. You may also obtain copies of it from our office to invite friends to St Hilda’s or to our special services.
Ninety-four children attended this year’s Church Christmas Party on December 19!
Better yet, our children from Kids For Christ (KFC) and Victory Kids helped to register and usher our guests when they arrived at Bethel Hall! They also helped to be greeters and helpers throughout the event! So young and already serving the Lord so diligently!
The party delighted both young and old!
Allan and Michelle led in singing the theme song and KFC helper
Mada led the singalong. There was also a short lesson on Christmas after a hilarious performance by ventriloquist Joseph Then, from Chapel of Christ the Redeemer. There were also games, craftwork and foodcraft during makan time in both Manna House and Daniel Room!
18 December 2015
For four exhilarating, fun-filled, spirit-filled, prayerful, exhausting and yet refreshing mid-December days, 38 youths spent time together, with themselves, and with God!
Said Queenie,15, a newcomer to this year’s St Hilda’s Church youth camp – Refuel 15: “I want to thank God for this camp. I came back to God and got to know him more. Thanks to all the leaders and pastors for the touching messages. I want to thank everyone in this camp for accepting me for who I am and welcoming me in this church. Already missing the praise and worship. I love you all!”
Besides the teaching, the praying and the worshipping, our youths had a beach day at Sentosa with their peers from Chapel of Christ the Redeemer. The Lord held back the rain on the beach where they were having their games, while it poured over the rest of the island!
Xuan Ying, 16, another first time camper exclaimed: ”Youth Camp was off the charts!”
Said Youth Pastor Calvin Tan: “We thank God for the 16-year-olds who took up the challenge to plan the games even though it was their ‘O’ Levels! They showed tremendous maturity and resolve!
“Even the younger youths from aged 13 stepped up to play in the band. They did very well. They overcame their initial nervousness and insecurities and served God. God has indeed given us great talents!”
During camp, two friends gave their lives to the Lord.
Perhaps the last word from another 16 year-old first timer, Louisa, summarise the camp: “My first church camp ever and I definitely loved it. During the altar calls I felt God’s presence overwhelming me. My relationship with Him became strong. I hope to grow closer to Christ quickly. Thank you Games Com for the games. Camp was really fun!”
Sunday, 14 November 2015
Story by Jeremy Sng
Photos by Linda Chee
The Neighbourhood Blessing last year was – so I heard – a sultry, sweltering affair. I recall seeing photos of smiling church members in their red t-shirts, with beads of sweat on their foreheads as a reminder of the stifling conditions. Everyone was happy, of course, but it was so very warm and humid.
Two weeks ago my cell leader told us about the Neighbourhood Blessing to take place on 14 November. On hearing this, I checked my calendar, hoping to have had something scheduled during that time.
It’s embarrassing to admit this, but I didn’t want to spend a weekend afternoon walking around a housing estate when I could be at home resting, or doing whatever I didn’t have the chance to do during the work week. It’s selfish isn’t it? To say that “weekends are for myself!” and to seek excuses just so that I can spend the weekend the way I want to!
In that way, my mind was already made up – I’ll find an excuse, and I won’t go. Yet, despite this plan, I found myself agreeing to go when I was asked again. And I am glad I did.
It was heartening to see everyone in Bethel Hall (St Hilda’s worship hall), assembled for the briefing. All of us knew each other, and there was a strong sense of familiarity among us red-shirted individuals. We were a group of persons with the same goal of sharing gifts with those who live around our church.
There were church members of all ages – those who have barely started schooling, those who have barely started working, and those who had stopped working many years ago. We had great weather – sunshine, haze-free skies, and a breeze which signalled the onset of evening.
My cell was tasked with 36 homes along Marshall Road and Ceylon Road, and a bonus was that my girlfriend, Dannelia, who attends another church, joined us for the occasion.
On a personal note, what was unusual but nevertheless welcome was that Dannelia did most of the talking, while I dutifully handed her umbrellas to give out. I was more than happy to be the accessory to the spokeswoman, and also more than happy to stay silent when she conversed in her superior Mandarin.
The residents were welcoming and accommodating.
This being my first Neighbourhood Blessing, I was surprised when residents were generally open to hearing us out. In the 23 years I’ve been attending St. Hilda’s, I’ve never once walked around our church to look at the houses, and the people in them.
Giving something to the residents was a pleasant experience, as you feel you get to know someone new every house you visit. We even encountered someone who was busy inspecting her newly constructed home with (I presume) the contractor who had built it. She and her husband had not moved in yet, but were warm to us when we approached them, and took some time out of the inspection to speak to us.
Such neighbourliness is the pith of Neighbourhood Blessing, and I would gladly do the same again next year.
Of course, the story which has to be shared: a resident even returned the blessing to Allison, one of our church workers. Now, this blessing wasn’t any simple token gesture. What Allison received was a tin of cookies. Not just any tin of cookies, but one from the renowned Jenny Bakery from Hong Kong, with a branch in Singapore where people queue two hours just for those famed Jenny cookies. In Hong Kong, the queue can be as long as four hours!
The tin of cookies was shared among all of us at the debriefing in Bethel Hall (it was a very large tin), and they were buttery, crumbly, memorable morsels of goodness to cap a happy occasion of fellowship and sharing after the Neighbourhood Blessing.
Let us set a wider net next year, a larger area of coverage. To do so, we’ll need more church members to join us for the blessing.
Rest assured, I’ll provide the cookies.
11 October 2015
Last Sunday, on October 11, Bishop John Tan presided over the Confirmation of 18 new believers and church members. Praise our most high Lord!
Saturate our church with the presence of God at a time of worship and prayer on Tuesday, 6 October 8pm in the Joshua Hall
4 September 2015
We had 70 guests who came for the Alpha Introductory Dinner, 20 more than the target which we had set. Glory be to God!
The course is for anyone who is curious about the Christian faith, and is designed to encourage discussions among participants. Registration forms are available at the Info Desk.
10 August 2015
Renovation of the main parts of the church, for this phase, is almost complete. When we return to St Hilda’s Church on Sunday, August 30, to resume services there, we will find a completely refreshed Bethel Hall and Joshua Hall. At the same time, there will be more breathing space for our nursery and kindergarten.
Work on rectifying defects and touching up have commenced. Testing of newly installed equipment has also begun. Additionally, the church is being concurrently cleaned. Thank you for your patience and understanding and for continuing to be a part of the church family.
We praise and thank the Lord for watching over us and over the safe renovation of our Ceylon Road premises. All glory to Him alone.
This phase of renovation has focussed on refreshing Bethel Hall, Joshua Room and the kindergarten and nursery. The next phase, on a much smaller scale, is planned for November and December. It will refresh the area where our admin offices are presently.
As services draw to a close at St Hilda’s Primary School, the Marshalls would like to thank you for your patience, understanding and co-operation.
The bigger space at the primary school has made parking easier, but your thoughtful attitude has made marshalling a breeze.
Two Sundays from today, on 30 August, we will happily be back at our Ceylon Road premises – with its more limited parking lots.
To help your Marshalls serve you better, please remember the following:
Thank you. May the lord bless you and continue keep you safe.
All asbestos ceiling boards, scheduled for removal under Phase 1, have been safely taken down. Tests for asbestos particles have all passed the Ministry of Manpower’s strict standards.
Hence internal works and interior décor works have commenced. Going forward, all M&E testing and testing of new equipment to be installed in Bethel and Joshua Halls will take place between 15 August and 23 August. After this, all renovated areas will be cleaned and tidied up between 24 August and 29 August.
E1, E2 and E3 services will resume in 41 Ceylon Road on Sunday, 30 August, 2015, as planned.
In the meantime, Mandarin and Hokkien services will resume on Sunday, 19 July in the Lower Sanctuary. Car parking will be limited to the open field and only one toilet is available for use. No meals and refreshments will be served as Manna House and Daniel Room will not be ready till early August at the earliest.
We thank God that repairs and renovation works are being completed safely, as scheduled. We thank you for your prayers, patience and understanding.
We will continue to update you as we progress. Please look out for updates in our Sunday Bulletins, Website and Facebook.
And I told them of the hand of my God which had been upon me for good, and also of the words which the king had spoken to me. And they said, “Let us rise up and build.” So they strengthened their hands for the good work. Nehemiah 2:18
Thank you and God bless.
Pastor Wong Tak Meng
A total of 153 church members came together and listened to the Word at Hotel Istana, KL, last week, from June 17th to the 20th. Having joy in the Lord means not just being in a personal relationship with Him, but also being an indispensable part of God’s people. This was clearly evident in the prayer sessions and in the joy of worship and sharing during the camp.
26 April 2015
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ
It is with a heavy heart that we inform you of the unexpected demise of Rev Albany To, who was the vicar of St Hilda’s Church from 1968 to 1972. He returned to the Lord on Friday, 17 April, in his home in Maryland, USA, after a brief illness.
Rev Albany was a trained engineer who oversaw the extension of the church that now includes Bethel Hall. He was also a talented musician who introduced electric guitars and bongo drums to enliven church worship. The jovial vicar formed the locally famous Hildasingers who went on to perform on national television. The Hildasingers team included Sheila Buckland, Lily Tow and their soundman Leslie Peters.
During the preparation of St Hilda’s 80th Anniversary book last year, Rev Albany was most helpful in providing valuable information on the history and development of the church around his time.
Hongkong-born Rev Albany was Chaplain of St Andrew’s Cathedral from November 1965 before he was posted to St Hilda’s Church in February 1968. He left in January 1972 to start a church in the Chinatown of Los Angeles, USA.
We will always remember Rev Albany To for his contribution to St Hilda’s Church. His love for music and passion for the Lord had greatly refreshed our worship services. We pray that his spirit may rest in peace in the presence of our Lord. Our thoughts and prayers are with his widow, Pat and their family.
St Hilda’s Church is putting together a condolences package of cards and letters to comfort the bereaved family. Members, especially those who know him, may wish to express your thoughts and fond memories on cards that we are providing at the info desk after service today. You may also email us at church@sthildas.org.sg or write letters or cards of your own that you can pass to the church office by Thursday 30 April 2015.
Bless you.
19 April 2015
AGMs always seem to mark the beginning of a new year for any church. On 19 April, at St Hilda’s AGM, its annual accounts were explained, the budget for a new year approved, and the church came together to worship the Lord and to commune with Him.
This year’s AGM also saw the appointment and election of a new slate of church leaders – a new Vicar’s Warden (Sam Ratnam, who is also a Synod Representative), a People’s Warden (Chan Mun Seng), a Synod Representative (Colin Chee), eight Lay Representatives (David Tow, Linette Wong, Iris Chua, Quek Seow Chim, John Teo, Yew Bok Chin, Dan Ong, and Ian Poulier. And previously elected Synod Representatives Daniel Koh and David Soh.
Altogether, 164 Electoral roll members participated in the AGM. They comprise 27% of total ER members.
May the Lord imbue our new Parochial Church Council members with His grace and His peace. May they go forward in His armour and with His blessings!
10 April 2015
Easter Service on Sunday, April 5, was memorable.
Natural-born actors from St Hilda’s Church bravely took to the stage. They played out the story of Christ and His resurrection on Bethel Hall’s stage. They were in turns funny, tender, poignant, hilarious, musical and somber. Their performances were inspiring.
Easter is important for Christians. This is because without the Lord’s resurrection, we do not have a leg to stand on.
Christianity is anchored on the belief that Jesus died on the cross for our sins, was buried and rose on the third day, to come again. The resurrection is vindication of Jesus Christ’s divinity. It is proof of His triumph over sin and death.
Praise the Lord!!!
Christ has died.
Christ is risen.
Christ will come again!
Lent 2015 has been a season of mixed emotions. Ash Wednesday this year happened to fall on the traditional Eve of Chinese New Year where families gathered for reunion dinner, the first of many feasts following. Today, we enter into Holy Week sharing the sadness of our nation as our Founding Father Lee Kuan Yew is laid to rest. May we anchor our hopes and aspirations on our Eternal Heavenly Father, even while we share the joys and grief of life on earth.
We will begin our Holy Week services on Tuesday and Wednesday 8pm with Biblical Meditations led by the Rev Drew Schmotzer, an Anglican priest on sabbatical in Singapore. Maundy Thursday Holy Communion with Feet Washing follows, as well as Good Friday Meditations on the Way of the Cross. I encourage all of us to take the extra time to journey more closely with Christ this week. On Easter Day, we hope you and your friends who are not yet believers will be touched by the Special Skit, Music and Message entitled “Finding Jesus” at the 10am service.
Today, we announce the Annual General Meeting (AGM) to be held on 19 April 2015. I will be sharing the plans the Lord has laid on my heart to grow St Hilda’s Church into a vibrant witnessing community to prepare for His return. Please prayerfully consider whom the Lord is calling to serve with me in the Parish Church Council (PCC) to continue growing our Church in the coming year.
I would like to sincerely thank Sister Iris Chua for serving with me as Vicar’s Warden for the last two terms. I have accepted her request to let someone else take her place so that she can devote her energy to other areas of ministry. I am happy to tell you that Brother Samuel Ratnam, after prayer discernment, has agreed to be appointed Vicar’s Warden at the coming AGM.
I believe it would please the Lord greatly for us to announce on 12 April, the Sunday before the AGM, the names of the candidates for PCC elections, so that we can take time to pray for them and for ourselves before the AGM. I would appreciate it greatly if you would kindly submit all Nomination Forms to the Vicar’s Office by Wednesday 8 April so that we can pray over them on Sunday.
On our 81st year, I believe the Lord is calling St Hilda’s Church to attention, to walk the Way of the Cross with Him. As we lift Him up high in our daily lives and witness, Jesus will draw all people to Himself to receive His precious gift of salvation, to experience the miracle of His resurrection in our own lives.
To God be the glory!
Pastor Tak Meng
29 March 2015
8pm at the Sanctuary
Holy Week Meditation 1
Speaker: Rev Drew Schmotzer
Rev. Drew was ordained a deacon in 2007 and a priest in 2008. He received his Masters of Divinity from Trinity Episcopal School for Ministry, USA in 2008 and is currently working on a Masters in Early African Christianity. Besides serving in various church positions in Ohio and Pittsburgh, he has taught at the Alexandria School of Theology. Last year he was appointed the Priest-in-Charge of the English Speaking Congregations at All Saints Cathedral, Cairo. He is also Chaplain to Archbishop Mouneer Anis, who is the Diocesan Bishop of the Diocese of Egypt with North Africa and the Horn of Africa, and the Primate of the Province of Jerusalem and the Middle East
8pm at the Sanctuary
Holy Week Meditation 2
Speaker: Rev Drew Schmotzer
8pm at Bethel Hall
Holy Communion and foot washing service
12-3pm at Bethel Hall
8am at the Sanctuary
10am at Bethel Hall
The 10am is an evangelistic service with a special presentation on the story of Easter. Please bring your family members and friends who are pre-believers.
In a twinkling of the eye, St Hilda’s Church has emerged from the exhilarating year-long celebration of our 80th Anniversary in 2014. As we begin the New Year, my thoughts are drawn once again to the amazing story of the two Olive Trees planted at the entrance of our church on 15 Feb 2014 during the Service of Institution and Induction of the Vicar.
You may recall that these trees, belonging to our gardener, were left overs from his other projects. They were taking up space in our garden nursery, seemingly without purpose. By God’s grace, they have found their purpose, as a fitting reminder of God’s faithfulness.
I would like to share with you three lessons I have received while reflecting on Zechariah 4:1-14, the passage that I would like to entitle “Zechariah’s Vision of the Two Olive Trees and the Golden Lampstand”.
The first lesson is the Importance of Unity. The two olive trees in the vision symbolize Joshua the high priest and Zerubabbel the governor – the ordained and the lay leaders we might say – who stand before the Lord (v.14), anointed to restore Israel after the exile. This is a lesson that the pastors and the leaders of St Hilda’s Church must always stand together before God so that his life can abundantly fuel the lamps of our ministries. Psalm 133 extols “how good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity”; like fragrant oil and refreshing dew, “the LORD bestows his blessing, even life forevermore.”
The second lesson is the Calling to Evangelism. The golden olive oil flowing from the olive trees into the golden bowl was not meant to garnish a salad; it was to give light through the seven lamps along the edge of the bowl. As the people of God, we are that lampstand. We are meant to illuminate the space wherever we are placed. Our light is reflected off the inside of the golden bowl and projected beyond the edge of darkness. In the coming years, through performances, Alpha Course, home visits, coffee sessions, mango parties, etc., may we be the light to bring people into the light of Christ.
The third lesson is the Dependence upon the Holy Spirit. The message to Zechariah is clear: the challenge is great, but the beginning is small and the people are weak; how can the vision be accomplished? “Not by might, nor by power, but by My Spirit”, says the LORD of hosts. He is “the LORD who commands mighty forces for His sovereign purposes”. He is “the Lord, the giver of life” (Nicene Creed), who will never leave us nor forsake us. Trusting in His protection, provision and powerful movement, we will see miracles to His praise and glory.
So, each time we enter the gates of our church, let us be reminded by the two Olive Trees – to be united in bringing the light to the world by the power of the Holy Spirit.
All glory be to God.
Pastor Tak Meng
4 January 2015, Second Sunday of Christmas
(A simple plaque has been installed on 1 Jan 2015 between the two Olive Trees on behalf of the whole church, by the leadership representing the English, Mandarin and Hokkien congregations, both young and old. The inscription is shown overleaf for your information.)
2 January 2015
On the morning of Thursday 1January 2015, the first day of the new year, Ven Wong Tak Meng, Ps David Lee and lay leaders (and their spouses) of St Hilda’s English, Mandarin and Hokkien congregations prayed for the unity of the clergy and laity of the Church, for it to be centred on the Holy Spirit, and to move forward in the spirit of evangelism. Under the blessing of an overcast sky, that threatened to open in rain earlier, members lit seven lamps of the menorah, praying (excerpts):
Leader: How good and pleasant it is when brothers live together in unity.
All: It is like precious oil poured on the head, running down on Aaron’s beard, down upon the collar of his robes….
Leader: Arise, shine, for your light has come,
All: and the glory of the Lord rises upon you.
Leader: But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you;
All