CLOSE to 85 volunteers with the Methodist Missions Society (MMS) and staff turned up for the Volunteers’ Appreciation Dinner at Methodist Centre on March 5, 2004.
In the true spirit of Christian ministry as an act of love and worship to our Lord, MMS helpers from all walks of life – retirees, professionals, working adults, students, homemakers — came for the fellowship. Many are involved in specialised areas such as medical care, education, curriculum development, planning, church relations, country coordinating work, translation and communications.
In addition, there are pastors and lay leaders appointed by Bishop Dr Robert Solomon and the MMS Executive Committee, respectively. Yet, despite the diverse composition of volunteers, the common denominator is a heart for missions, the giving of one’s time and resources towards the sharing of God’s Word and love with our neighbours in the region.
In a wonderful way, volunteers have found that as they refresh others in ministry, they in turn are refreshed.
The evening was a reunion of sorts for many, and also a time for making new acquaintances. It began with a warm welcome from the MMS, followed by a buffet dinner as well as ice-breakers which required guests to come up with creative ways of telling a meaningful story and what they felt was the very essence of mission work.
The MMS Director, the Rev Dr Clarence Lim, expressed his appreciation to all the volunteers for their commitment and dedication. He then invited Bishop Dr Solomon to present tokens of appreciation to each individual volunteer.
Mr Francis Chua from Eagles Communications sang a song of tribute aptly entitled “Thank you”, touching the hearts of those present.
The evening ended with some words of encouragement from the Bishop and the singing of praises to the Lord.
Indeed, it was a simple thanksgiving event in a simple setting with a simple message: Continue to love and serve Him wholeheartedly, for He alone deserves all the glory.
Eunice Chan is a Volunteer with the Methodist Missions Society.
