In a joyous gathering marking the fifth year of this initiative, leaders from 46 local churches of The Methodist Church in Singapore (MCS) came together recently for a morning of breakfast fellowship, worship, prayer and meaningful discussions. This biannual event provided a cherished opportunity to strengthen bonds among church leaders and contemplate the topics of social holiness and overseas missions. The event was organised by Conference Lay Leaders of the three Annual Conferences: namely Mr Henry Tan, Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC), Dr Benjamin Leong, Chinese Annual Conference (CAC) and Mr P Ganesegaran, Emmanuel Tamil Annual Conference (ETAC).
A time of fellowship and worship
With Bishop Philip Lim presiding over the event, attendees were welcomed into an atmosphere of warmth and camaraderie. The gathering commenced with a shared breakfast, allowing leaders to connect personally and spiritually, celebrating their roles within the MCS community. Conversations buzzed with stories of ministry, perseverance and collective faith, laying the groundwork for deeper discussions later in the programme.
The worship segment of the gathering filled the room with an uplifting spirit, as participants praised and honoured God together. This act of collective worship served as a powerful reminder of the shared mission and divine calling that binds every leader and congregation to each other.
Insights on overseas missions
A highlight of this gathering was the insightful sharing by Methodist Missions Society (MMS), represented by Rev Derrick Lau, Executive Director, and Samuel Ng, Home Director and Stakeholder Engagement Manager. They presented the current landscape of overseas missions projects undertaken by MCS’ local churches, illustrating the impact that the local churches were making in various regions around the world.
Rev Lau and Mr Ng shared compelling stories of recent mission trips, highlighting the transformative work of humanitarian work, church building and providing a Methodist education. The presentation inspired the leaders present to reflect on how their congregations can further support and engage in mission work.
A commitment to social holiness
Rev Lek Yong Teck, President of CAC, reinforced the concept of social holiness as central to the Church’s mission. He articulated the vital role that local churches played in addressing social justice issues within their communities, encouraging leaders to remain steadfast in their commitment to serve others.
During the discussions that followed, leaders shared various initiatives their churches had undertaken, from social outreach programmes addressing poverty to mental health support. This collaborative spirit exemplified the commitment of MCS to live out their faith in tangible, impactful ways.
The vision of OneMCS
As the gathering progressed, a consistent message emerged: the importance of unity and collaboration under the vision of OneMCS. The three Conference Lay Leaders who organised the event articulated this vision, encouraging churches to support one another, share resources, and develop joint initiatives that reflect the heart of Christ and the mission of MCS.
Bishop Lim closed the event by reminding everyone that working together as OneMCS is not just a motto but a practical approach to fulfilling their collective mission. He urged leaders to leverage their diverse gifts and strengths to create a greater impact, both locally and globally.
Henry Tan is the Conference Lay Leader of the Trinity Annual Conference. / Photos courtesy of TRAC
