Despite being away from Singapore, two teams established by Singapore Methodist churches in partnership with the Methodist Missions Society (MMS) and based in Timor-Leste have signed up for the MWS Empowerun. A virtual run/walk event, MWS Empowerun is a platform to fundraise $600,000 that will go towards blessing over 8,000 beneficiaries served by MWS.
Blessed to be a blessing
One of the teams is formed by the residents of Dunamis Hostel, a ministry of MMS and Bedok Methodist Church that has enabled youths in rural areas to access higher education and pursue their dreams. Being recipients of kindness, the residents are eager to give back by raising funds for Methodist Welfare Services (MWS).
“The hostel residents have registered for MWS Empowerun because they desire to share their blessings with students in need, and families who are struggling to place food on the table,” shares Rev See Swee Fang, overseer of the Dunamis Hostel ministry.
With no time to lose, the 12 residents at Dunamis Hostel have been building up their stamina for the run, and giving praise and glory to God as they train hard. For the actual run, the residents will cover a coastal trail from their hostel to Cristo Rei, a famous scenic spot, in two groups.
Never too young or too far to make an impact
Another group that shares this desire to bless is the team from St Paul Methodist School (SPMS). A team of Timorese staff and students from SPMS are planning to complete 400km collectively in four hours, by running in teams of four, each covering 40km.
They are led by a faithful missionary family from Aldersgate Methodist Church, David and Jessie Chan and their three children, Isaac, Joy and Isaiah. The students at SPMS have been encouraged to do their best with whatever they have. David and Jessie see MWS Empowerun as a great opportunity for SPMS staff and students to be a part of God’s bigger picture to make an impact by blessing the last, the lost and the least. Whether as a runner, donor or fundraiser, students at SPMS are learning that they are not too insignificant or far away make be a positive impact.
“We believe that everyone can give. The Timorese may not have the capacity to give financially, but they can give their energy by running and raising funds. We run, you give!” says David.
Give generously
Just as our fellow brothers and sisters in Timor-Leste have recognised their God-given blessings and stepped up to give back in their own ways, may we be inspired to give generously and support those in need. Your donations will go towards uplifting the low-income and/or distressed families, disadvantaged children, at-risk youths, the destitute, sick and/or frail elderly, and the socially isolated, regardless of their race and religion.
To donate and find out more about MWS Empowerun, please visit www.mws.sg/empowerun or scan the QR code below.
By the Methodist Welfare Services (MWS) Communications Team / Photos courtesy of MWS