BRAND NEW LOOK, SAME GOOD READ

WHEN FAMILY IS THE ISSUE

liveline

A PUBLICATION BY ALDERSGATE METHODIST CHURCH

ISSUE 11 | JUNE 2009 活力线

MICA (P) 106/08/2008

WE’RE ONLINE TOO!
www. aldersgate.sg

WHO’s TO
Blame
ALDERSGATE CELEBRATES 30 YEARS | BLESSED TO BE A BLESSING
when
CRAcKS at
Home SHOW?
The media, school or God?

Aldersgate Methodist Church

Q&A
雅德门卫理公会
98 Dover Road Singapore 139647 I REALLY HATE MY KIDS HAVE
tel: 6773 1964 • email: liveline@aldersgate.sg
www.aldersgate.sg
MY FAMILY BACKSLIDED
Why was I born into it? Should I drag them back?
r DONE READING THIS MAGAZINE?
Pass it on to a friend, family or a colleague
 编辑的前言
June 2009 | Issue 11
Editor’s
IN THIS ISSUE Advisors Pastor Chiang Ming Shun
foreword
FEATURES Pastor William Sam

Editor-in-Chief Leslie Chiang

10 Under a flimsy roof

RETHINKING THE FAMILY

Pastor Chiang Ming Shun explains why Editors Shirley Pee
families are in trouble and in need of Andrew Ang
Derrick Ho
rescue.
Geraldine Ang
Gracia Chiang
Loh Ka Wai


Rudy David Wong
Teresa Chong
Consider it a divinely arranged
Tiffany Ang coincidence that our editorial team
Yip Poh Lin decided on the theme of family for
this issue, without remembering that
Contributors Pastor Chiang Ming Shun
PAGE 26 Sheena Pastor William Sam
in May, Aldersgate celebrates her 30th
13 NOT JUST A COOL CEREMONY Yang shares what travelling
Anniversary as a church community that
with her sister was like. Alvin Chua
Some non-Christians in Japan hold church Beverly Ang values the family.
weddings because it’s in vogue, but what
does tying the knot in a church really
Chen Qiuluan
Maybe much has been said about the 编辑团队前些时候决定以“家庭”作
mean? REGULARS Eric Chiok
Gordon Yuen family that it sounds almost cliché but if
为这一期《活力线上》的主题内容。
Gilbert Lok we take time to consider, we will realise
4 METHODIST MINUTE Grace Ho that much of societal issues like teenage 当时，我们并不晓得雅德门，这个尤
16 WHEN FAITH & FAMILY CLASH
I hate my family, why did God put me We find out why Methodist pastors don’t
Henry Tan
delinquency, abortions, homosexuality, 其重视家庭的教会社区，将在本月庆
Sheena Yang
here? Is it important for the whole family stay in one church for too long. gambling, drugs… and the list goes 祝创会三十周年纪念。我认为这个巧
to worship in the same church? Questions Photographer Jacob Kong on, can in one way or other be 合是神的安排。
asked and answered. 10 AROUND ALDERSGATE traced back to the quality 可能关于家庭的课题已经说得太多
LiveLine’s Editor-in-chief spends a day at of family life that victims

18
HOUSE OF MINISTERS
Two families show how one
household can make such a huge
impact as they share what it’s like to
serve in multiple ministries in and
around church.
Fairfield Methodist Primary’s Uniquely mE 了，所以听起来有点老套。然而，如
caught in these issues
and sees how volunteers there help. 果仔细想想，我们将发现许多社会问
have experienced.
Many of our children 题如青少年犯罪、堕胎、同性恋、赌
22 SHOUT OUT
CONTRIBUTION OF ARTICLES in schools carry heart- 博与吸毒 等等，都和当事人的家庭生
Alvin Chua explains why he decided to
enter the workforce during these times of
If you have enjoyed reading breaking stories of parents 活素质息息相关。
economic uncertainty.
‘LiveLine’ and want to contribute
on the verge of divorce, the 许多孩子们都背着心酸的故事上
a short write-up on your Bible
reflections, your Pastoral Care Leslie chiang absent father, parents who give tonnes
学，比如面临离婚的父母、缺乏父爱
25 LIFESTORY Group (PCG) activities or even share editor-IN-CHIEF of money and material comforts to their
some ‘favourite makan places’ or a
children but cannot afford to give one 的家庭、只懂得用钱给于无穷物 质享
Henry Tan reflects on the day his lung great place to shop, do drop us an
collapsed and the miracle that came after. e-mail to let us know. We’ll be most Please tell us how you
hour to spend with their kids. 受却无暇施舍一小时陪伴孩子的父母
happy to liaise with you for your feel about our new I am personally grateful for 等等。
26 TRAVEL TALES
valued contributions. You can send design or about the institutions like churches and ‘Focus on 我个人很庆幸有教会和“家庭焦
your contributions to
Sheena Yang explains how she survived liveline@aldersgate.sg
issues covered. the Family’ that continue to sound the 点”等机制来继续传达保护家庭的重
Email us at
touring Taiwan with her sister based on call for the protection and priority of our
liveline@aldersgate.sg 要性。除非我们能持续不断的 重视这
“three-favours-a day”.
We’d love to families. Unless we continue to place
hear from you! value and priority on this basic nucleus of 个基本社区核心的价值，否则我们的
LiveLine is a publication of Aldersgate
33 ALL ACCESS Methodist Church, Singapore. Views expressed in community, our society is lost. 社会将会迷失。
LiveLine are the contributors’ and do not
Eric Chiok gives his take on Stephen Curtis necessarily reflect that of the church or the editorial
team. Materials in LiveLine may only be reproduced
Join with us at Aldersgate and 请到雅德门和我们一起为你的家庭
Chapman’s latest album; Gordon Yuen with permission from the editorial team or the
contributors.
celebrate your family. 而庆祝。
takes us through Aldergate’s website
revamp; and recipes from our very own Printed by Pica Digital Pte Ltd
ladies.

DEC 08 liveline 01
JUNE 2009 | liveline | 01
 PASTOR’s
reflection
GOT A
迷失的羊和失落的银币，是圣经中两个美丽
的故事。

FIND FELLOWSHIP,
羊和银币虽然不见了，但并没有被遗弃或遗
忘，因为有人竭尽所能地寻找它们。
如果羊和银币能对牧者和妇人表达感激之

NOT FOLLY, WHEN CAUGHT

情，我们可能会听到这样的话：“你不会知道
你爱的行动，对我来说意义有多重大！”
知道有人会帮助我们，总是让我们感到安

IN THE FLURRY
心和鼓舞。然而，这些把爱化为行动的人，在
这个世上已经越来越少了。如今，多数的人会
说：“要做完每天的事已经不够时间了，哪里
还有余力和时间伸出爱的援手？”
The speed of every day life is amazingly fast. 你发现自己也说同样的话吗？你觉得在马大

from the desk of

Some, not wanting to lose out are tempted to go
at an even faster pace, all at the expense of their
那样忙碌的世界中，像马利亚那样日过一日是
一种挑战吗？ ISSUE OR
Pastor William Sam health, marriage and family. Mohandas K. Gandhi
QUESTION
时下的生活节奏非常快速，有些人为了不落
once said: “There’s more to life than increasing its 人后，以更快的速度追逐生活，结果损失了自
The Parable of the Lost Sheep and the Parable speed.” 己的健康、婚姻和家庭。
of the Lost Coin are two beautiful stories we have
in the Bible.
As we celebrate our 30th Church Anniversary,
let us slow down, reach out in love and be a
圣雄甘地曾说：“生命的意义远大过加快生
活的脚步。” YOU WANT
ANSWERED?
In these stories, a shepherd and a woman blessing. Zechariah 8:13b, the theme verse for 在我们庆祝雅德门卫理教会30周年的当儿，
make all-out efforts to search for a lost sheep and our 30th Anniversary Celebration says: “… so will 让我们放慢脚步，留一点时间向别人伸出爱的
a lost coin. I save you and you will be a blessing. Do not be 援手，成为他人的祝福。
If the sheep or the coin could voice their afraid but let your hands be strong.” 这一季，雅德门把目光放在家庭生活上，我
appreciation to the shepherd and the woman In this season of our family life at Aldersgate, 们将探讨如何成为他人的祝福，就让圣弗朗西
The speed of
respectively, we may hear things like: “You never
know how much your loving action has meant to
every day life
is amazingly
we are looking at how we can be a blessing to
others.
斯的祷告词，也成为我们的。
TELL US!
me!” As St Francis has prayed so shall this prayer 主啊！求祢使我成为和平的工具，
It’s always, I believe, assuring and encouraging fast. Some, of his be ours too: 在仇恨的地方，让我播撒爱心；
to know that there is someone out there who not wanting Lord, make me an instrument of your peace, 在伤害的地方，让我播撒宽恕；
reaches out to us. These are the ones who put where there is hatred, let me sow love;
Send us your feedback
to lose out are 在怀疑的地方，让我播撒信心；
their love into actions. where there is injury, pardon; 在绝望的地方，让我播撒希望； and suggestions and we’ll
tempted to
But such persons are getting rarer in a world where there is doubt, faith; 在黑暗的地方，让我播撒光明； try our best to include
of hurry and flurry. Most people today will say:
go on an even where there is despair, hope; 在悲哀的地方，让我播撒欢乐。
faster pace, all them in the next LiveLine
“There isn’t even enough time to finish the daily where there is darkness, light;
tasks I have on my plate, where then do I find the at the expense where there is sadness, joy; 噢，主啊！求你使我
extra time and energy to reach out in love” of their health, O Divine Master, grant that I may not so 不求人的安慰，但求能安慰人； Email us at
Do you find yourself saying the same thing? marriage and much seek to be consoled as to console; to be 不求人的理解，但求能理解人； liveline@aldersgate.sg
Do you find it a challenge to live day by day as a understood as to understand; to be loved as 不求人的怜爱，但求能怜爱人。
family.
Mary - who sat and listened to Jesus when He to love. For it is in giving that we receive; it is 因为在施舍中，我们有所收获；
visited - in a Martha - Mary’s sister who busied in pardoning that we are pardoned; and it is in 在宽恕他人时，我们也被宽恕；
herself instead - world? dying that we are born to eternal life. 在丧失生命时，我们将复活并得永生！

02 | liveline | JUNE 2009

 METHODIST
minute around aldersgate
HAPPENINGS IN AND

>> Pg 8 YOUNG ADULTS MEET FOR HIGH TEA

Q
Why are Methodist
pastors appointed MAKING THEIR ROUNDS
annually? Why do methodist
LiveLine asks our two pastors where they were before
being posted to Aldersgate Methodist Church

The Methodist Church started as a small group

pastors need to be
movement within the Anglican Church.  Methodist appointed annually?
PASTOR CHIANG MING SHUN
groups sprung up all over Britain and the United
States, and there were so many groups in different
2000-2004 Assistant Pastor
cities that there were not enough pastors to go Kampong Kapor Methodist Church
around.
So  during the days of John Wesley, Methodist 2005 Pastor
Kampong Kapor Methodist Church
ministers rode on horses as they went about their
travelling preaching ministry.
2006 Pastor-in-charge
They would travel hundreds of miles on Aldersgate Methodist Church
horseback to preach the Word of God. They were
known as “Circuit Riders”. Each minister was
in-charge of a few churches that were grouped PASTOR WILLIAM SAM
together in Circuits. We inherited this itinerant
2002-2006 Assistant Pastor
system and this explains why Methodist ministers Ang Mo Kio Methodist Church
in Singapore are appointed to different churches
from time to time. 2007-2008 Pastor
The responsibility of appointing pastors to the Faith Methodist Church

twenty Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC) churches

rests with the President of the Annual Conference 2009 Pastor
Aldersgate Methodist Church
who is advised by a Board of Appointments. The
Board regularly looks at the needs of the various
churches and recommends pastors for the best fit
- the right pastor to the right church.
– PASTOR MING SHUN & PASTOR WILLIAM SAM
WHAT IS AN ANNUAL CONFERENCE? MINISTRY FOCUS
起初,英国圣公会有一群人兴起小组运动.后来逐渐形
成一个新兴的宗派-卫理公会,并在英国和美国如雨后 John Wesley used to gather his preachers and leaders annually By LESLIE CHIANG
春笋般的茂盛起来,在各个城市成立了无数的小组,以 to discuss theology, doctrine and other matters related to
至牧师的数目不足以应付这么多小组的需要.
早期在约翰卫斯理的时代,卫理公会牧师们都是骑
马到处传道.他们长途跋涉数百哩路,传讲神的道.因此
Methodism.  We continue this today but the Annual Conference
has evolved with the Methodist Church. Today in Singapore,
local Methodist congregations are organised into three Annual
UNIQUELY ME
被称为巡回牧师,每位牧师负责牧养几间教会.这些有 Conferences: Trinity Annual Conference (TRAC), Chinese Annual One Wednesday afternoon, I
两间或超过两间教会所组成的牧区议会叫做巡回牧区 Conference (CAC) and Emmanual Tamil Annual Conference shadowed Jessie Chan as she makes
(ETAC).  Each Conference is headed by an elected President who
议会.
我们承袭这种巡回传道的系统,因此新加坡卫理公 is an ordained minister.  According to the Methodist Discipline,
her regular visit to Fairfield Primary
会牧师都会被委派到各个堂会. “The purpose of Annual Conference is to make disciples for School where the “Uniquely mE”
负责委派牧师到20间三一年议会(TRAC)堂会的,就 Jesus Christ by equipping its local churches for ministry and by programme is faithfully conducted,
是会长.他在委任牧师之前,必须先与年议会委任部磋 providing a connection for ministry beyond the local church; all
商.委任部定期为各堂会的需要及牧 to the glory of God.” – PASTOR MING SHUN four days every school week. >>

04 | liveline | JUNE 2009 JUNE 2009 | liveline | 05


around aldersgate
The “Uniquely Me”
programme was first initiated by a
group of Fairfield School teachers from
Aldersgate to help students in the
Fairfield school who needed academic
help.
Subsequently, in 2002, Jessie
Chan, took over as the programme
coordinator and the “Uniquely Me”
programme was positioned as one of
the projects under the Social Concerns
ministry in Aldersgate.
Today, this initiative has now
blossomed into a strategic ministry
reaching 26 primary 3 and 4 students,
conducted from Tuesday to Friday
every school week and staffed by a
partnership effort between Fairfield
teachers and 10 volunteers from
Aldersgate.
Volunteers, according to Jessie,
consist of retirees, home-makers and
students in transition who spend 2
hours from 1:45 to 3:45 pm each week
to befriend a group of 1 to 4 students
and to provide much-needed coaching
in Math and English.
Ms Gaw is a trained teacher
06 | liveline | JUNE 2009
specially engaged by the school to run the
programme. While her role is to ensure
classroom discipline, look for teaching
resources and conduct a teaching session
in the first hour, the volunteers serve
as small-group coaches and classroom
assistants who are well positioned
to befriend students and provide
personal coaching in a less threatening
environment. According to Jessie, some
students will warm up to the volunteers
enough to even share their personal or
family struggles which are opportunities
for the volunteers to encourage and
minister to these young lives.
LiveLine asked Jessie why she was
I believe many of these
kids will one day look
back and see this
programme as a life-
changing event in their
lives. – Jessie Chan,
programME coordinator
“
clockwise From
Left: Ms Gaw
starts the class PASTORAL CARE GROUP SPOLIGHT
by checking each
student’s handbook Christ living abundAntly in you (CLAY)
for any outstanding
LETTING THE
homework; Jodi, “I have learnt that not
another AMC
volunteer, befriend and
only must we be bound
coaches her charges; to God spiritually, it is also
MASTER MOULD
Activities conducted
in small groups led by important to have social
volunteers; Ms Gaw bonds with earthly mates”
commending a student
for a job done well.
– Edwin
By CHEN QIULUAN “ I feel that CLAY has
provided me a family from
We did not start out as CLAY. which I can learn, grow
We were first known as Group for
and have fun”
Accountability and Prayer (GAP).
– Chee Siong
A group of youths from Fairfield
Methodist Secondary felt that there
was a lack of accountability and “ What I have gained
prayer in the weekly youth ministry from our PCG are
meetings, thus they decided not only lessons or
to come together every Friday life impacts but a
fortnightly to do just that with family…one where I
the help of 3 mentors. It was the feel comfortable and a
first mixed gender group that was group that I know I can
formed for the 13-16years old.
turn to when I need”
So when it was time to formally – Daniel WOON
”
make the shift for the older youths
involved with this ministry these past in JC and above to be in a mixed
6 years. Without much thought, she group, we decided to stay together
confidently replied, “Firstly, I see the need and form a group.
to help these students, secondly, this is We are a lively group of people
a wonderful avenue for Christians and that loves to eat, talk and have fun
the church to be involved in nurturing together. Over and above that, we
young lives and finally, I believe many look forward to learning more about
of these kids will one day look back and each other and God’s word through
see this programme as a life-changing Bible study. 圣果组
event in their lives.” Taking turns to host PCG at our
Although she shyly declined to be homes, unlike meeting in church 关怀牧养小组分享
photographed, her parting words to like we used to, has proven to be a
me was to thank and appreciate all
existing and past volunteers who have
winning formula in forging stronger
bonds with our own members
黎维忠弟兄
quietly but faithfully given of their time and also the new friends that we 我们的小组组名是“圣果”。圣果小组
and resource to make this ministry bring. Many feel welcomed and are 在2002年成立。至今，大约有16位组员。
an impactful one. She remembered comfortable sharing the things that 我们的小组刚增添一位新成员，就是刚
some faith-stretching years when she each one has been going through 出世的吴育恒小弟弟，而年纪最大是秀
had only 2 volunteers to work with but no matter how small it may seem 花姐，现年74岁。我们小组就如一个大
somehow they pulled through and she to be. 家庭，一起团契，彼此关怀。小组在每 品格特性，都可以从耶稣基督的本性
is grateful for the team of 10 that co- We hope that our group can be 月的第一个星期六聚会。 中看到。这些都是我们让基督掌管生
labour with her now. a place where non-Christian friends “圣果”这组名主要是取自加拉太书 命而结出的果子。如果我们想在生命
come to see and experience the 5:22-23。圣灵所结的果子就是仁爱、喜 中结出圣灵的果子，就必须与基督的
If you would like to be involved in the
“Uniquely Me” programme as a volunteer,
same warmth and love that we have 乐、和平、忍耐、恩慈、良善、信实、 生命联合。盼望各组员在耶稣基督里
you may contact Mrs Jessie Chan through for them, for each other and also for 温柔、节制。 圣灵的果子就是圣灵在我 成长，以主耶稣为榜样，结出圣灵的
the Aldersgate church office at 6773 1964. God. 们生命里面的工作。圣灵所结出的这些 果子。
JUNE 2009 | liveline | 07
 around aldersgate features
BOYS’ BRIGADE UPDATES

MARCH M YHEM!
A

During the March holidays, Boys

and recruits from the 33rd Singapore

on
company spent an extended time building
friendships and bonds with their new
squad leaders and each other.
PHOTOS By NICHOLAS ANG
WHEN FAMILY IS THE ISSUE

UNFAMILIAL
Change of Guard YOUNG ADULTS MINISTRY

After seven years of

WHO SAID HIGH TEAS
dedicated service
as Captain of the
WERE ONLY FOR TAI-TAIS?
By GILBERT LOK
33rd Singapore

Company, Mr Glen
Tan (below right)
has handed over
the baton to Mr Joel
Li (above). Joel formally
took over as Captain of
the company in April at the
Enrolment Service.
The 26-year-old is a Mathematics
teacher at Fairfield Methodist School
(Secondary). Like Glen, Joel rose through
the ranks in the 33rd and returned during
his junior college days to volunteer as a
senior during which he served as a drill
and adventure officer. Joel worships at
Grace Methodist Church.
— DERRICK HO
GROUNDS >>
In AN effort to build better friendships amongst our young adults in
Aldersgate Methodist Church, members from all young adult PCGs came
together at a YAM High Tea Fellowship on 27 Dec 2008 at the NUSS Guild
House. More than 50 young adults interacted over dim sum. We shared light
banter, and engaged in serious conversation on how the church can minister
to young adults, how young adults can contribute to the body-life at AMC, and
how AMC can serve the community.
PG 10 Under One (Flimsy) Roof
PG 10 When Faith & Family Collide
PG 10 House Of Ministers

08 | liveline | JUNE 2009


WHEN FAMILY IS THE ISSUE
By PASTOR CHIANG MING SHUN
>>>
families are in trouble.
A recent poll conducted by The
Straits Times showed that some
children today consider having to
get their own glass of water from the
kitchen a household chore.
When I was young, a household
chore was washing the clothes for
the whole family, or hanging them up
to dry. A chore was something like
washing and cooking rice for the whole
family for dinner. These were chores I
did almost everyday. I never considered
having to get my own drink a “chore”.
In Singapore, there are more and
more cases of children and youth who
are “beyond parental control”. In 2007
10 | liveline | JUNE 2009
alone, there were 140 new cases. Who
would have imagined in the past that
there would come a time when young
children of primary school age would
be uncontrollable, even by their own
parents?
We now hear stories of children
who refuse to attend school and
instead closet themselves at home
because of gaming addiction. We read
stories about children who attack
parents and teachers.   others while seeking to fulfil their own
Everywhere you turn today, you see
signs of disintegration of the family.
Where did things go wrong?
I think it was when we focused
mainly on academic education,
when we saw the school as the main
institution for preparing and grooming
children for adulthood. Of course, this
only to be expected now that parents
spend so much time at work and
children, so much time in school.
But is instruction in languages,
science and mathematics (and so on)
all there is to education? What about
character? Can character be taught in
a school as a subject in an hour a week?
Education in traditional, or advanced
and innovative subjects may prepare
you for a job and a livelihood, but it
doesn’t quite prepare everyone for life.
We need firstly to learn values.
Values that are neither trendy or of the
moment, nor derived from consensus.
We need values that are also high
ideals, values that don’t come from
within us but from beyond us. These
are exemplars to live up to, some
perspective of goodness that can
inspire us.
Secondly, we need to live them out.
Knowing one set of values while living
to another is hypocrisy. People who
only make a show of being righteous
are not called saintly; they are called
sanctimonious.
Where should we learn about
values and how do we live them out? In
families.
We need families to reproduce
honourable and moral values. Families
are best-placed to pass on ethics
and standards. The Bible tells us in
Proverbs 22:6, “Train up a child in the
way he should go; even when he is old
he will not depart from it.”
Children will copy and reproduce
both the values and their practice
from what they have experienced in
their own families (see “Bringing Up A
Criminal”). For example, a child whose
parents are selfish, who do not care for
needs, will probably grow up to be the
same.
Perhaps that is what the Bible
means in the book of Exodus, chapter
34 verses 6 and 7:
“The LORD, the LORD, a God
merciful and gracious, slow to anger,
and abounding in steadfast love and
>>
While God keeps
steadfast love for
thousands and
forgives sins, children
perpetuate the errors
of their families
for three or four
generations.
faithfulness, keeping steadfast love
for thousands, forgiving iniquity and
transgression and sin, but who will by
no means clear the guilty, visiting the
iniquity of the fathers on the children
and the children’s children, to the third
and the fourth generation.”
While God keeps steadfast love for
thousands and forgives sins, children
perpetuate the errors of their families
for three or four generations.
The senior prison chaplain in
Singapore tells me that one trend he
notes among prisoners is that most
of them come from dysfunctional
families. Parents who go wrong lead
their children into error. Unless
someone intervenes, the wrongdoing is
preserved (see “Reaching Out”).
On the other hand, while errors
are maintained for a time, we are told
that those who love God and keep His
commandments are sustained for a
thousand generations. Deuteronomy
7:9 says:
“Know therefore that the LORD
your God is God, the faithful God who
keeps covenant and steadfast love
with those who love him and keep
his commandments, to a thousand
generations...”
Age-old problems
The Bible has a lot to say about
dysfunctional families. In fact, it is full
of them. Incest, adultery, favouritism,
all these are in the Bible. Even when
families were fine, problems would
still crop up. For example, Jesus’ family
thought that he was mad! We read in
Mark 3:21 that after Jesus had begun
his work and appointed his twelve
apostles, “when his family heard it,
they went out to seize him, for they
were saying: ‘He is out of his mind.’”
And yet the Bible has an
unsurpassable example for us to follow
– God Himself. We are told that:
• God is “gracious and merciful,
slow to anger, and abounding in
steadfast love…” (Joel 2:13)
• He “delights in steadfast love”
(Micah 7:18)
• God is love (1 John 4:8)
• He is the God of truth (Isaiah
65:16)
As we read about how God loves
us as a father, as we learn about His
JUNE 2009 | liveline | 11
 >> REACHING
families and marriages?
OUT
What can you do when you encounter struggling

Pray for them. Better still, pray WITH them.

BRINGING UP
A CRIMINAL
Senior chaplain at Prison Fellowship
Singapore, Rev Dr Chiu Ming
Li, highlights four categories of
Listen to them without judging. Listen to understand and support.
families that can contribute to the
“production” of criminals.
Do not suggest divorce! Instead persuade them to seek help.
1 Over-indulgent Parents
Often, rich or middle-class families
give children everything they want.
Approach your pastor for a list of Christian counsellors. These parents give their children
everything, including lots of money,
toys, even businesses, to over-
socialisation and no concept of a
relationship with a significant other.
They are like the lost children in
the Peter Pan story. These children
end up starved of attention, and
desperate for affirmation and a
sense of belonging. They often find
these in the wrong company.
3 Authoritarian/Abusive Parents
These parents overwhelm
their children with criticism. They
give very little affirmation so their
children seek solace among other
verbally abused children. They
are inwardly bitter but outwardly
ingratiating, while yearning for
affirmation.

character, we have our role model and

paradigm. As we seek to conform to His
ways, we can build strong families.
that the first couple chose to disobey
God and hence lost their relationship
with God. Apart from God, man only
compensate for perceived deprivations
like absent parents. These kids then
grow up expecting everything they
4 Wrong Role Model Parents
Some parents are already
involved in vice ­– the mother might
want to be given to them. be a prostitute, the father a drug

It starts from two

Another way to build strong families
is to have strong marriages. When
children are nurtured in a caring
and affirming environment by loving
parents, when they can see love in
action, they will be better able to follow
their parents’ example.
Yet even the traditional concept
of marriage is in danger today. The
entertainment and popular media
happily and regularly send us messages
that it is legitimate to have sex outside
of marriage, that single-parent
families are normal, that divorce is
unexceptional.
In fact, I cannot recall a single
Hollywood movie I have seen in years
that show married couples being
intimate: they all depict sex between
unmarried couples.
We need to support and strengthen
marriages so that families might be
tenacious and indomitable.
The Bible tells us that God created
man and woman in His image. Not
just that they look like Him, but that
together, they resemble His beauty,
love and character. The Bible also says
got worse.
We need to recover God’s plan for
marriage, which is one man and one
woman complementing each other,
building not just on each other’s
strengths and negating each other’s
weaknesses, but developing and
improving each other so that each
blooms and prospers.
Training and time are needed
for this, which is why marriage
preparation and marriage enrichment
are of the essence. We know how a
wedding should run, but we need to
learn, above all, how to be married for
life (see “The Fashionable Wedding”).
When things fall apart
Yet marriages are breaking up faster
today. It seems that almost half of all
marriages in the US end in divorce.
In Singapore, the general divorce
rate is about eight persons for every
1,000 married persons according to
2007 figures. But the rate is going up. I
know a couple who broke up less than a
year after getting married.
Divorce is not God’s plan. In fact,
the words of the marriage vows
specifically say you agree to be
2 Absent Parents
Parents in these
families may be dead,
in prison, out on the
streets or they simply
don’t care. As a result,
their kids grow up
never knowing parental
love or discipline, so
they have no family
married “as long as you both shall live”
(or “till death do you part” in older
versions). Couples take an oath to
remain married “for better, for worse”.
Unfortunately, it is not that clear-cut
nowadays. With reduced community
support for troubled marriages, with
straightforward and more convenient
procedures to get divorced, with the
removal of the stigma of divorce, it has
become an easy option.
Jesus taught in Mark 10 and
Matthew 19 that, while it was not God’s
original plan to allow divorce, Moses
permitted it because of the hardness of
man’s heart.
I am not saying that nobody should
get divorced. I am saying that divorce
addict or gangster. Their child
has no one else to follow after
and end up following their
parents’ way of life. In this
vicious circle, the children
learn from their parents how
to be parents. They repeat
the cycle of neglect and
abusiveness towards their
own children.
must be a last resort and not another
alternative in a whole bundle of
choices.
Where reconciliation has been tried
and found impossible, when abusive
spouses refuse to change, when a
spouse or children are in danger,
certainly and regrettably divorce may
be explored.
But allowing “no-fault” divorce, or
divorce for irreconcilable differences
just cheapens the whole enterprise.
It encourages couples not to weather
storms together.
Keeping a marriage together
necessitates working through
difficulties. This is hard and painful.
But it can be done with God’s help.
A FASHIONABLE WEDDING
Having your wedding in church means your marriage, you have decided to let
more than just wearing a gown and God be the centre and sustainer of your
walking down the aisle behind flower- marriage. It means that you call on the
strewing girls. church, with all its resources, to come
In Japan, when a couple has around and reinforce your marriage.
already been married, it has become
fashionable to have a western-style It also means that when things
“church wedding” to round off the go wrong you turn to the church
experience, although most of the for help:
population there are followers of
Shinto or Buddhism. Almost always,
an actor is hired to play the part of the
1 You return to the pastor who married
you or to the pastor of your church for
advice, not just to friends and family.
priest or pastor, and the couple gets to
enjoy a “church wedding” escapade.
Getting married in church means
2 You allow the church to assist in
healing and reconciling, and not
immediately consider separation.
that you seek God’s blessings and the
church’s recognition of your marriage.
It means that instead of having some
3 You try and follow God’s principles
in saving your marriage and not the
way of the world.
fuzzy feeling of love as the source of

12 | liveline | JUNE 2009 JUNE 2009 | liveline | 13


章明舜牧师
同个屋檐下
家
庭出了问题。
《海峡时报》最近的调查
厨房拿一杯水喝当成家事杂务。
显示，有些孩子甚至把到
在我小时候，家事杂务是帮全家洗衣
或晾衣、为全家煮饭，这就是我当时几
乎每天都做的家务，我从没想过给自己
倒水也算在内。
在新加坡，越来越多儿童与少年让父
母难以管教，单是2007年就有140起新案
例。从前，有谁会想到竟有这么一天，
小学生已任性到连父母都束手无策。
如今，我们听到有的孩子沉迷于电脑
游戏而不愿上学；有的孩子甚至攻击父
母和老师。
现在不管我们走到哪里，都能看到家
庭成员之间脱节的迹象，到底哪里出了
问题？
我想，当我们把焦点放在教育、当我
们把学校当成是培养和装备孩子步入社
会的主要机构，问题就产生了。当然，
由于今日父母长时间工作及孩子长时间
在学校，这也是可以理解的。
然而，教导语文、科学和数学（及其
他科目），是教育的全部吗？品行呢？
品行可以成为科目，每星期教一小时
吗？传统、先进或创意科目，可以为一
个人将来的职业作准备，但作为日后生
活的准备，是不太足够的。
我们必须先学习人生的价值观，这
些价值观不是建构在时尚、潮流和当下
的感觉上。我们需要的价值观是高标准
的，不是随兴而是超越自我，可以追求
14 | liveline | JUNE 2009
家庭繁衍罪犯 伸出援手
何与至亲维持关系；他们就像童话故事
当你接触有问题的家庭和婚姻时，
邱明理牧师是资深的监狱牧师。他在谈到 《小飞侠彼得潘》里迷失的孩子一样，
能怎么办呢？
问题家庭和罪犯之间的关系时，列举了4 急着想获得归属感和他人的肯定，结果
种会“生产”罪犯的家庭。 误交损友。
1 为他们祷告，更好是和他们一起祷告。
2 怀着同理心聆听，给予支持而不评断。
1过度溺爱的父母
很多时候，富裕或中产家庭，对孩子总
是有求必应，他们给孩子他们想要的，包括
3 权威式家长／施虐的家长
这些家长过度批判他们的孩子，
3 不可建议离婚！鼓励他们寻求帮助。
4 向牧师索取基督徒辅导员的名单。
他们很少肯定孩子，这使到孩子向粗野
大笔金钱、玩具，甚至是生意，对无法陪伴 的孩子靠拢。这些孩子尽管内心充满委
不要漠视求助的声音。如果有地方出了问
在孩子身边作出过度补偿。这些孩子长大后 屈，表面上却摆出逢迎的态度，希望得
题，就必须把它处理好！如果你掩盖问题，
并激发我们做得更好和更团结的。 从古至今的问题 也期待他们要什么有什么。 到认可。
有一天可能会一发不可收拾。
其次，有了价值观后，必须付诸实 圣经提到的问题家庭，不胜枚举，好像 　
践，如果说一套做一套便是虚伪。那些标
榜自己很正直的人，不是圣洁，而是假道
乱伦、通奸和偏心等等。就算不是问题家
庭，也难免出现问题。好比耶稣的家人就觉 2 缺席／忽略的父母，并有婚姻问题
这些家庭的父母也许已经逝世，或在监
狱服刑，或在外流浪或根本就不关心家庭。
4 错误示范的家长
有些家长涉及黑社会活动，母
德。 得他疯了。马可福音3:21记录，当耶稣要去 亲可能是妓女，父亲可能是嗜毒者或私
要如何学习正确的人生价值观，并身 传道并设立12门徒时，“耶稣的亲属听见， 结果，孩子在没有爱和纪律的家庭长大， 会党徒。他们的子女也有样学样，步父
体力行呢？这必须从家庭开始。 就出来要拉住他，因为他们说他癫狂了。” 他们没有和父母沟通的体验，也不知道如 母的后尘。
我们需要家庭把正确的价值观传给 圣经有一个无法超越的典范让我们效
下一代，箴言22:6告诉我们：“教养孩 仿，那就是上帝。圣经告诉我们：
童，使他走当行的道，就是到老他也不偏 • 上帝“有恩典，有怜悯，不轻易发
时尚婚姻
离。” 怒，有丰盛的慈爱……”(约珥书2:13) 家庭可以稳如磐石，不受动摇。 姻(或至死才会分离)，并许下“无论遭遇好
孩子会模仿和重复他们在家里看到的 •“喜爱施恩”。(弥迦书7:18) 圣经告诉我们，神照着自己的形像造 坏”都携手共度的诺言。
价值和言行（见小文“家庭繁衍罪犯”） • 神就是爱。(约翰一书4:8) 人；人不单长得像神，也有类似神的爱和性 不幸的是，如今情况改变了，社区对问 在教堂结婚的意义，远超越穿结婚礼
。如果父母是贪婪和自私的，为达目的而 • 是真实的神。(以赛亚书65:16) 格。圣经告诉我们，神造的第一对男女因不 题婚姻支持不足的同时，离婚程序却变得越 服，在花童开路下走过长廊。
无视他人的，那么他们长大后可能也会像 当我们知道上帝是如何像父亲般爱我 服从神，而和神断了关系。离开神后，人类 来越简便，加上离婚已经见怪不怪，成了一 在日本，虽然大部分人是神道和佛
他们的父母一样。 们，当我们懂得他的性格，我们就有一个学 只会变得更糟。 个方便选择。 教徒，但男女结婚后，再行一次西式
也许这就是出埃及记34:6-7所说 习的典范。当我们遵照上帝的诫命，就可以 我们必须回到神要求一男一女结合的婚 耶稣在马可福音第10章和马太福音第19 婚礼已成了时尚。他们通常聘请艺人
的：“耶和华，耶和华，是有怜悯有恩典 建立一个稳固的家庭。 姻制度，婚姻不仅仅是互相取长补短，而是 章里告诉我们，神无意让世人离婚，摩西所 扮演道士或牧师，以便享受一次“教堂
的神，不轻易发怒，并有丰盛的慈爱和诚 帮助彼此成长和提升，以便双方都能发挥所 以允许休妻是因为男人的心变硬了。 婚礼”。
实。为千万人存留慈爱，赦免罪孽，过 问题从婚姻开始 长。 我不是说绝不可离婚，我是说离婚应该 在教堂结婚意味着寻求上帝赐福，及
犯，和罪恶，万不以有罪的为无罪，必追 建立稳固家庭的另一个方法是先有稳固 这需要训练和时间，这也是为什么婚前 是无可奈何的最后途径，而不是众多选择中 教会对这段婚姻的认可。这意味着你不
讨他的罪，自父及子，直到三，四代。” 的婚姻。当孩子看到恩爱的父母，并在关 准备和强化婚姻是重要的。我们都知道怎样 的一项。 是把婚姻建立在对爱的感觉上，而是让
尽管上帝爱世人并宽恕我们的罪过， 怀和给予肯定的环境中长大；当他们看到 筹划一场婚礼，但我们更需要学习如何维系 当努力尝试后仍无法在一起；当暴力的 上帝成为维系婚姻的基石。这意味着你
但子女往往延续家族的错误直到三四代。 父母的言行中充满爱，他们自然较能效仿父 一辈子的婚姻。(见小文“时尚婚姻”) 一方拒绝改变；当其中一方或子女的生命受 让教会和它的资源包容你和强化你的婚
一名到监狱服务的本地资深牧师告诉 母。 到威胁，那就要探讨离婚的可能性。 姻。这也意味着当婚姻出现问题时，你
我，他发现囚犯多来自问题家庭，父母犯 然而，对婚姻的传统看法，在今日已岌 当婚姻亮红灯 然而，允许“没问题”的离婚，或为了 将向教会求助。
错导致孩子也走上歧途。除非有人干预， 岌可危。大众化媒体和娱乐圈不断传送这样 今日的婚姻很难天长地久，美国一半的婚姻 未经调解的分歧，就轻易放弃婚姻，这等于 1. 你可向为你主持婚礼的牧师或教会的
否则错误将延续下去。另方面，圣经告诉 的讯息：婚姻以外的性关系是可以接受的； 看来就以离婚收场。在本地，离婚率是8％ 是鼓励夫妻不必共患难。 牧师求助，而不只是向朋友和家人求
我们，只要我们爱上帝并遵守的诫命，将 单亲家庭是正常的；离婚没什么大不了。事 ，相当于每1000人就有8人离婚，这个比例 于其放弃婚姻，为何不先尽全力挽救？ 助。
信守我们：“所以，你要知道耶和华你的 实上，这些年来我看过的好莱坞电影，几乎 还在上升中。我认识的一对夫妇，结婚不到 破镜重圆不等于漠视问题和伤害，不是对不 2.你允许教会协助修复和调解，而不是
神，他是神，是信实的神。向爱他，守 少不了未婚男女的性关系，我不记得有任何 一年就离婚。 满睁一只眼闭一只眼，或默默承受痛苦。维 马上考虑分居。
他诫命的人守约，施慈爱，直到千代。” 一部讲述婚姻中的亲密关系。 离婚不是神的原意。事实上，你们也在 系婚姻必须共同走过困境。这是艰难和痛苦 3.你尝试遵循上帝的教诲来挽救婚姻，
（申命记7:9） 我们必须支持和巩固我们的婚姻，以便 结婚誓言中同意“有生之年”都会持守婚 的，但可以在神的帮助下办到。 而不是跟随世人的做法。
JUNE 2009 | liveline | 15
 faith
1 2
My family thinks I’m spending
too much time in church and
complain that I’m neglecting my
family, studies, etc. How do I balance
the two? Families generally want the
best for each other. So these complaints
may have very good intentions behind
them. Take them seriously and examine
yourself – are you really neglecting your
family? You need to talk to them and
reassure them. Are you really coping
well? If you are not sure, talk to your
pastor as well.
But it is not always a choice between
family and church. Have you considered
that your family might be your mission
field, your area of service? Loving and
serving your family members are far
more difficult than loving and serving
other church members or strangers. But if
you don’t do it, who will?
If your family is Christian, why don’t
you consider serving together with them?
You can study the Bible together, assist
in the same ministry or work in the same
committee.
16 | liveline | JUNE 2009
WHEN FAMILY IS THE ISSUE
HEARD AMONG THE YOUTHS
I hate my family. They have so
many faults. Why did God put
me here? A lot of people think
this way, but it still doesn’t make it the
Right Attitude. The fact is, whether we
can see it or whether we want to admit
it or not, ALL families have problems,
some bigger than others. Some families
have hiccups every now and then, others
struggle daily. There is no perfect family
because no one is perfect.
So maybe God put you where you are to
teach you how to love. After all, we were
in our sin and God still loved us. Jesus said
in John 13:34-35, “A new commandment I
give to you, that you love one another: just
as I have loved you, you also are to love
one another. By this all people will know
that you are my disciples, if you have
love for one another.” We are called to
love each other, especially those we may
consider unloveable. Maybe God also put
you there to teach you how to pray. What
you can do is pray every day for your
family members individually. Pray in love
and ask God to bless them. Praying will
not only change your heart towards them,
it will change them also.
versus
WHAT HAPPENS WHEN THEY COLLIDE?
3 1
My parents are non-believers
and don’t allow me to go to
church, pray or read the Bible.
How do I respect them and yet
follow Christ? Parents do this because
they don’t know Christianity and they fear
losing a child to an unknown entity. They
have to see that Christianity makes people
better children, not more disobedient or
rebellious.
Become a model child at home and you
will give your parents a good impression of
Christianity. Offer to pray for your family
members. Perhaps then they will be more
open and flexible.
On the other hand, we have to be good
children of our Father in heaven as well.
There may come a time when we have
to make hard choices. Since there are
different levels of parental objection, you
should consult your pastor before making
a decision.
READ THE CHINESE
VERSION ONLINE
www. aldersgate.sg
family
My children worship in a different
church. Is it important for
families to worship in the same
church? It is very important for families
to worship together, but it is perhaps just
as important for every Christian to be
able to worship God “in spirit and truth”
(John 4:23-24). If children find they can
grow better in soil elsewhere, then they
should be planted there. The crucial thing
is that they are able to grow.
What parents can do is make sure the
church their children want to worship
in is the real thing. There are too many
strange places these days. So do a little
investigation, go and attend worship
there yourself, talk to your own pastor
about it.
Naturally, it also depends on the age of
the children. Look at it this way: are the
children of an age where you would allow
them to choose their own school? If so,
and if it is an unknown school, wouldn’t
you at least check up on it first?
HEARD AMONG THE ADULTS
2 3
My children have backslided
and don’t want to come to
church. Should I “drag”
them every Sunday in the hope
that they will one day be saved or
should I let them decide when they
want to come back to Christ? God
has no “grandchildren”, only children.
Everyone must come to God on their own
and personally accept Him as Lord and
Saviour. All too often, children come to
church only because of their parents. It
becomes part of their Sunday routine and
they never develop personal faith in Jesus.
So it may not be a question of backsliding.
They may never have had faith in the
first place! Or they may have outgrown
their childish faith but not developed the
historic Christian faith. Faith at home
should not be a Sunday show. Parents
must take responsibility for developing
their children into Christian disciples.
What the children see at home during the
week has to be a continuation of what
they see in church on Sunday.
So create a worshipping environment
at home by praying and studying the
Bible together. Don’t “tell” your children,
show them and lead them instead. If your
children see what you have is good, they
will want it for themselves too.
My spouse is a non-believer.
How can I respect his/her
views yet bring him/her to
church? There is some teaching about
this from 1 Corinthians 7:10 onwards.
The Bible says that we are not to leave
unbelieving spouses, and that they can
become holy because of us.
The most important thing you can do
is pray for your spouse. Then expose your
spouse to the Gospel without imposing
your views. Consider reading the Bible in
your spouse’s presence. Share what you
learned in church. Ask your spouse how
you can pray for him/her. Host a small
group meeting in your home.
Again, it is crucial that your life reflect
the grace of God. Otherwise you are
just opening yourself up to charges of
hypocrisy.
Remember also that respect is a two-
way street. Non-believing spouses should
also respect beliefs of Christians and not
forbid church attendance.
JUNE 2009 | liveline | 17
 of
WHEN FAMILY IS THE ISSUE
Philip

HOUSE It caught me by surprise

when the kids came up

MINISTERS THE TANS

Driven by love, two families
share how they use their
individual skills and talents to
build the church of God.  so I thought of bringing my teaching skills
By Grace Ho
PHOTOS By JACOB KONG
FROM LEFT: Eugene; Joel; Christina and Philip
>> to me one day and told
me that they liked what I
taught.
Philip Tan, 53, Bank Regional
Corporate Manager
What are your areas of ministry? What has kept you in this job?
 What has been your most
I teach in the Church School. Years ago, I’m thankful for my colleagues. We often memorable experience?

I used to lecture on a part-time basis,
imparting knowledge and training others,
help each other out. For example, Clara is
in charge of the bulletins but we all help
When my PCG showed their appreciation
through a video they made for PCG
to fold them and see tasks to completion. Leaders’ Appreciation Day and when my
into service in church. I am also an usher.  Somehow, in a Christian environment, we small group at university sang me a song
give and take, making sure that things go – 朋友 (Friends).
What spiritual gifts are you well in the end.

exercising?
 Joel Tan, 20, FULL-TIME
Teaching. Children are open to anything so What is your most satisfying NATIONAL SERVICE MAN
it’s important that we teach them the right experience? What are your areas of ministry?
values from young.  I am most satisfied when everything goes I serve in the 33rd Boys’ Brigade Junior
smoothly during the weekly service (with Company at Fairfield Methodist Primary,
What has been your most no breakdowns). lead worship every month for the
encouraging experience?
 pre-school ministry in church and am
It caught me by surprise when the kids Eugene Tan, 23, third-year involved in the Youthphoria outreach
came up to me one day and told me that undergraduate  committee. I’ve been doing ad hoc work for
they liked what I taught. They also said What are your areas of ministry?
 the Boys’ Brigade since my JC days.
“thank you”. When kids say that, they really I’m the student president of Singapore
mean it. Management University’s Campus Crusade What has been your most
  for Christ (CCC) ministry, and a youth encouraging experience?
Christina Tan, 51, Church staff pastoral care group (PCG) coordinator and Seeing the boys move on to Fairfield
What are your areas of ministry?
 leader of a group of 19-year-olds in church. Methodist Secondary. It’s encouraging to
I started working in the church office 11 see that they are growing in Christ. I’ve
years ago and I help to keep the accounts. I What spiritual gifts are you found my passion in kids.
had been working in the commercial world exercising?

for too long and was looking for a change of Shepherding and teaching. I have been Are there new areas you are
environment. It’s usually “backstage work” able to translate difficult concepts into interested in serving in?

that I do, such as overseeing administration something easier to understand and also I am now learning how to present gospel
and property management, so that the be involved in casting visions for both stories using balloon sculpturing and magic
church can run smoothly. ministries. tricks. I hope to use that in my ministry!





18 | liveline | JUNE 2009 JUNE 2009 | liveline | 19

 >> THE CHOOS
William Choo, 46, General
Manager of a shipping company 
What are your areas of ministry?

I served as an usher since I was a young
adult but became the chief usher two years
ago. The role is a good fit because planning
the usher roster and managing the usher
duties are tasks I’m able to do in between
my travel schedule. My wife and I also host
a pastoral care group (PCG) called Oasis 1.
What spiritual gifts are you
exercising?
 experience?
 student
More of the gift of helps. The ushers are
usually the first group of people whom
worshippers meet and interact with just
before entering the sanctuary. For the PCG,
it would be more about being hospitable. 
What are your most encouraging
experiences?
 I play the guitar in the worship team for
The smile on the worshippers’ faces, their
warm handshakes and cheerful greetings
add joy to our service to God as ushers.  As
a PCG facilitator, I am encouraged by our
new members’ openness in sharing their
faith journey with the group.
Choo Aik Eng, 46, HR executive  What spiritual gifts are you
What are your areas of ministry?
I have been serving as a teacher assistant
in the Church School (K1/K2 level). The
Church School played a significant role
ATHALIA in imparting biblical principles in all our
three children, and serving there is my
I’m helping in the 8.30am
kindergarten Church School.
I guess it’s the gift of helps. I like
children and being around them. 
20 | liveline | JUNE 2009
expression of thanksgiving to God and to
the group of teachers. I’ve also recently
started volunteering at the Uniquely mE
programme at Fairfield Methodist Primary. 
What spiritual gifts are you
exercising?

I see myself more in the area of helps.
Teacher assistants play a more supporting
role during class – paying more individual
attention to each student, helping them
with activities and reinforcing the Bible
stories.  they require, like with worksheets and
What is your most encouraging
It’s heart-warming to see the children,
young as they may be, responding to the
love of God through their singing and
listening to Bible stories.
Hosea Choo, 19, NSman
What are your areas of ministry?

Youthphoria and the Sunday Service. I’m
also a PCG leader for the Secondary 3 and
4 guys. About three years ago, I facilitated
a group for the 40 Days of Purpose
programme and that group later became
my PCG.
exercising?

My gifts are shepherding, creative
communications and faith. My
passion is evangelism through
music so I try and serve
wherever I can.
What has been your most
encouraging experience?

Last year during church camp, I saw how
my PCG mature in their faith, their sharing,
and the way they worship and pray. It’s
great to see them grow.
Athalia Choo, 16, Secondary 4
student  What is your most encouraging
What are your areas of ministry?
 experience?
 put the money into groups of $1 or $10 so
I’m helping in the 8.30am kindergarten
Church School. I’ll help out with whatever
during interaction time.  interested in serving in?
How did you get involved?

Last year, we had to serve in church
for two months to earn a badge for the
Girls’ Brigade. I enjoyed it very much and
decided to stay on as a teacher assistant.
I guess it’s the gift of helps. I like children
and being around them. 
this year. We would write how much
money was collected, sign our names and
submit the form to the church office. 


What did you learn?

Sometimes my friend and I would
count different amounts so we ended up
recounting and recounting. Finally, we
decided to count together. It’s important to
I feel very happy when the kids come up it’s easier. 
and say “hi” after Church School. They
actually remember you!

 Are there new areas you are


Amanda Choo, 12, Secondary 1 Maybe the same as my sister – helping
out in Church School. I have also seen my
What are your areas of ministry?
 mother serving there.
I used to count the weekly offering in
Church School before joining Youthphoria
From left: Athalia; Amanda; William;
Hosea and Aik Eng.
JUNE 2009 | liveline | 21
 SHOUTOUT

Small Steps, Giant Leap

As unemployment numbers surge, this might seem the worst
time to graduate. Or is it? Our columnist offers a different perspective.
By ALVIN CHUA

J eremiah 29:11 says: “For I know

the plans I have for you,” declares the
Lord, “plans to prosper you and not
to harm you, plans to give you hope
and a future.”
Today, many in the working force are
wondering if they could be jobless by the end
of the day. Most people my age are wondering
if they can find a job once they graduate. As I
am writing this, there are about 15,000 degree The economy is still had turned out to be worse. Following the
holders who are jobless. And while you are
reading this, there will be about 12,000 more
in turmoil and it will dramatic changes to the economic situation,
the conversations have likewise changed.
tried a different kind
fresh graduates looking for a job. be for a while more. There is still talk of an economic recession, of aid?
With bleak figures like these, is it still However, Jeremiah but less of grad trips and even less of where
possible to believe in Jeremiah 29:11? 29:11 reminds the next step of life will be. Half of my friends
I would have just graduated by the time graduating students do not seem to have made any concrete plans
this issue of LiveLine is published and I cannot like myself, that the for life after university.
deny that I am not looking forward to it. Don’t I guess I’m one of the fortunate ones. I
get me wrong, my university days were great,
plans set by God are applied for and was recently accepted into
and they still are. already in motion. the National Institute of Education (NIE). No
But with the weeks left in school dwindling more interviews, waiting for replies, or worse,
into single digits, the uneasiness of the next
phase of my life has more than replaced the relief that school is
receiving rejection letters. It is probably not a
surprise that I’ve taken this route too. It would have been the ALDERSGATE
FIRE PLACE
ending. Studying seemed to have lost its sheen, especially with the same decision had I graduated a year earlier.
fairer gender of the same age earning a load of cash because they Everything I did in life seemed to have been in preparation
have had a few years of headstart. A minor inferiority complex is for this — entering the Faculty of Arts and Social Science,
creeping in. majoring in English Language. The recession perhaps only
A year ago, my friends and I decided to graduate and take that helped curb an insane desire to get a better paying job. OUR CORPORATE TIME OF PRAYER
next big step into the working world. Normal conversation topics The economy is still in turmoil and it will be for a while EVERY WEDNESDAY, 8PM
included where the next step of life will take us, where we will be more. However, Jeremiah 29:11 reminds graduating students
going for our grad trip and, of course, the impending economic like myself, that the plans set by God are already in motion. If
Basement rooms 3 and 4
recession. I were to get or have anything, it is only by the grace of God.
Though things didn’t seem bad at the time, most people felt No amount of worry would have comforted me more than the
that the logical decision was to continue studying. Why enter the verse could. With this verse, I know my direction has been set
workforce at a time when the future looked so uncertain? I made a out before me. Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest.
last-minute logical decision to continue on in my Honours year. All I need now is to take the steps, no matter how illogical
Matthew 11: 28
Nearly a year later, what seem “not so bad” at that time they may seem to the world.

22 | liveline | JUNE 2009

 LIFESTORY

My Jehovah Rophe
Doctors said he needed surgery after his left lung collapsed.
But the next day, he was given a clean bill of health.

Y
By HENRY TAN

A
30 years

D
br a t e s

Y
ate cele

IL I
ld e r s g
A

FA M A
@ SE N T O S
T WAS life as usual as I headed off
for work on the morning of 26th
September 2008. Nothing, however,
prepared me for what entailed in the
coming weeks.
Since 2000, I have experienced
occasional bouts of chest pain and
breathlessness. Thinking that they were
heart-related, my doctor ordered an
X-Ray and electrocardiogram to be taken.
Nothing abnormal was detected and I
was given a clean bill of health. While
the symptoms persisted when I entered
the army and even surfaced during my
overseas mission trips, several checkups
churned out the same normal outcome. I
was even referred to a cardiologist when I
was working in Tan Tock Seng Hospital.
That Friday morning when I arrived
at the office, the same sharp pain pierced
my chest and I had difficulty breathing.
As I usually recover within half a day, I
living away from the calls me with the recovery. I was not even
brushed it off and continued with my
work. When the pain did not subside the
of this world. I learnt that
following day, I visited the Polyclinic again
and went for the same procedures. This
time, my X-Ray was blurred.
All are invited Plainly, I was told that my left lung
had collapsed. In medical terms, it was
results fluctuated. The presence of
gas remaining in my chest prompted
him to increase the suction speed
of the tank. Undoubtedly, this move
created much pain and I endured yet
another sleepless night.
The next morning, I was informed
that surgery would be required if
my condition did not improve. The
thought of surgery filled me with
dread.
Miraculously, my X-Ray scan on
8th October was completely normal.
I was cleared and discharged. What a
relief!
I thank God for walking me
Through this through it all. Had this episode not
hospitalisation, happened, I would not have found
I had the chance to fast out the real cause to my chest pains.
from my computer and He was also my Primary Healer as
television programmes, the doctors did not do much to help
prescribed any medication.
Through this hospitalisation, I had
everything works in the chance to fast from my computer
God’s time. and television programmes, living
away from the calls of this world. I
learnt that everything works in God’s
time. My life had been moving at a

27 June 2009 Pneumothorax, an emergency condition

Saturday, 9am onwards
caused by the accumulation of gas in the pleural cavity. I
was immediately admitted into the hospital and given local
very rapid pace, accumulating stress
along the way. This incident reminded me to slow down
and dwell in what matters.
anaesthesia in order to insert a tube into the left side of my Finally, I also thank God for my friends’ prayers,

Tanjong Beach
Look out for more details in
the bulletin or check www.aldersgate.sg
chest. The tube sucked and pumped out gas from my body into
a chest tank. The procedure caused me several sleepless nights,
and dragging the tank around with me was also a hassle.
The doctor monitored my condition over a week and
blessings and concern. Whenever they came to visit me, I
felt incomprehensible peace and joy in my heart. The pain
in my chest would also subside. God’s mercy has been
evident in this entire episode.

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 TRAVEL TALES

travelling
with my sister
Sheena Yang explains how she
toured Taiwan with her sister
based on “three-favours- a day”

O
ur family vacation last December was initially planned with
more people in mind, but due to busy schedules and other
commitments, we finally settled on what would be our first
“sisters only” trip, something Rowena and I had wanted to
do since a while back. However, like most siblings, we do have our share of
frequent bickering at home, and while people generally tend to be more
accommodating when travelling with friends, doing so with your sibling
– someone you are used to taking for granted many a times – could be
quite a different experience.

26 | liveline | JUNE 2009 JUNE 2009 | liveline | 27

Rowena was so crazy over THREE FAVOURS A DAY
Keenly aware of this challenge, my younger
the beef broth ramen that sis and I actually sat down for a pre-trip
discussion on how we would resolve
we consumed it five days conflicts that might arise during the trip. This
was definitely a good idea, considering how
in a row for breakfast. I we already argued over how we’d settle our
arguments! Our resolution was that each of
had no choice but go along us would give in to, or “tolerate” if you will,
three favours per day from the other person
because she used her daily – however unreasonable those requests may
be – during our travel together.
entitlement of “favours” on
CRAZY OVER BEEF BROTH RAMEN
me each time. Ours was an 8-day free-and-easy trip to
Taiwan. Our hotel in Taipei City was right
smack in the middle of Ximending, a
famous shopping hotspot dotted with
huge department stores, swanky shops and
street vendors. This did a lot of damage to
our pockets as we practically spent all our
time there shopping and eating. The wintry
28 | liveline | JUNE 2009
weather did not help either because as I
discovered, a person’s appetite tends to
increase when one is cold.
Dubbed the “Harajuku” of Taipei,
Ximending is a popular hangout for young
people. Here, you can find anything from
trendy clothes, shoes, and accessories to CDs,
books and souvenirs; from movie museums,
theatres and karaoke pubs to restaurants,
eateries and street stalls selling local snacks.
The night markets in Taipei are a must-go. All
the mouth-watering local foods and snacks
are available here. Yummy favourites such as
Taiwanese fried pancakes (a thicker version
of our Roti Prata with fillings), crispy fried
chicken chop, seasoned maize on a stick, beef
broth ramen and so many more were simply
too tempting to pass up. (Travel tip: resist big
portions as you’d need the stomach space
to sample the wide variety of scrumptious
delights).
Rowena was so crazy over the beef
broth ramen that we consumed it five
days in a row for breakfast. I had no choice
but go along because she used her daily
entitlement of “favours” on me each time.
The Taiwanese themselves frequent the
night markets and during the weekend
especially, much of our time was spent
queuing up with the locals for food. Every
night, we’d return to the hotel and just
collapse on our beds, totally exhausted but
contented.
REFRESHED BY HOTSPRINGS
From Taipei, we travelled south to visit Sun
Moon Lake, a popular tourist attraction in
Taichung. It was a good break away from
the hustle and bustle of Taipei City. On the
recommendation of our homestay host
family, we woke up bright and early before
dawn to settle by the lake and enjoy the
peace and serenity of the surrounding.
The scenery was breathtaking as the sun
revealed itself slowly, casting a lovely glow
upon the glistening lake. In stillness we sat,
marvelling at this beautiful sight before us.
I gave thanks for the opportunity to witness
God’s majestic glory and also for this time
of quietness that was much needed. The air
was remarkably fresh and the weather so the other preferred hitting the sack, were
perfect that we even went trekking on the quickly resolved – just like the beef broth
trails. We felt so refreshed and healthy after ramen episode – through our “three
that! The hot springs we visited later helped favours-a-day” pact made before the
to soothe our slightly aching muscles. trip. I thank God for giving me wisdom
Throughout this time together, I was to know when to hold my tongue and
thankful that my sister and I did not have when to give in. It was a trip we both
any major arguments even though this was thoroughly enjoyed and it certainly
something rather common on previous brought us closer together as sisters.
holidays. Minor disagreements, such as one In fact, I’d say I look forward to more
person’s desire for midnight shopping while holidays with Rowena!
JUNE 2009 | liveline | 29
 TRAVEL TALES
By BEVERLY ANG
LAOS
MEKONG
A
s part of my TRACKERS
discipleship programme held
between January and March
this year, I embarked on a 10-day
mission trip to Laos. Our team, comprising
nine youths and two mentors from various
local Methodist churches, visited three
destinations within Laos, namely Oudomxay,
Luang Prabang and Vientiane.
After weeks of preparation and seeking
God’s discernment for the team’s ministry
in Laos, we finally started on our great
adventure on the night of Feb 16. For
many of us, this was our first mission trip
experience, and needless to say, we were
tremendously excited.
As there was no direct flight to Laos,
we had to transit in Kuala Lumpur where
we spent the night in sleeping bags on
the airport floor. This was not the most
comfortable of accommodation, but it
was a small price to pay for the profound
30 | liveline | JUNE 2009
the jewel of the
experiences we had in Laos.
Upon arrival at Vientiane, we had to
make another transfer to Oudomxay, the
heart of northern Laos. This time however,
the hour-long flight was onboard a tiny,
slightly claustrophobic propeller plane that
resembled those of bygone eras. We made it
there safe and sound though.
Our team stayed with our Laos-based
missionary contact from Youth With A
Mission, in the school set up years ago. For
security reasons, we were instructed not to
divulge names or release any photographs of
the missionary upon our return to Singapore.
Laos is a closed communist country, steeped
in Buddhism and animistic beliefs. The strict
prohibition of evangelism makes it difficult
for Christians to minister to the people there.
Even missionaries who reside in the country
usually go under the cover of another
profession. These manifold challenges
facing Christian ministries in Laos means
we had to be extra careful and sensitive to
the people we encountered, especially at the
immigrations.
Our ministry with the missionary
consisted mainly of helming nightly, covertly
held prayer meetings as well as ministering
to the missionary and eight disciples via
dance, skits, testimony sharing and a
one-day workshop that we conducted for
them. During our stay, we were given the
opportunity to bless our hosts by cooking
meals for them. This entailed a trip to the
wet market, which is similar to those back
home… with the exception of a lot more
raw meat on display, including bags of pig’s
blood, entrails and pig heads. I got a slight
culture shock when the butcher returned
our change by placing the kip (Laos currency)
directly on top of the slabs of raw meat
which still had traces of blood on them. In
squeaky clean Singapore, this practice would
have garnered wide-eyed stares; over there, it
seemed like the norm.
Our team also visited two
village schools to bless the
local schoolchildren via creative
outreach and interactive
games. We also delivered clothings and
other forms of aid to the villagers, because
the people there still live in relative poverty.
Due to the ravages of the Vietnam War,
during which numerous Laotians died, 45
per cent of the population is under 15 years
old. This explains the disproportionate
number of children compared with adults
in the country. Statistically, Laos is the
poorest country in the region, and this was
painfully evident to us. Some of the children
we encountered, for example, had no shoes
and wore clothes that were much too big
for them. Our simple gifts of biscuits and
hair ribbons, which had cost us so little,
were met with child-like contentment that
really touched my heart. I was personally
Clockwise from top left:
The Patuxay (meaning Victory
Gate) in Vientiane is dedicated to
those who fought in the struggle
for independence from France;
Villagers’ houses in Mai Village,
in Oudomxay; A roadside vendor
near a wet market in Oudomxay;
Our mission team with some
of the Laotian disciples we
ministered to; Rickety bridge
spanning across a tributary of the
Mekong River.
Truly, Laos is a
beautiful country, but
disturbed by the stark disparity between the
children in Laos and those back home, as I also one that elicits
recalled a scene I witnessed just before I left much sadness. After
for my trip — that of a young boy throwing a
frightful tantrum, simply because his mother the Vietnam War, Laos
did not accede to his demand for a toy car. was said to be more
My mission team also travelled to Luang
Prabang, which is a UNESCO World Heritage heavily bombed than the
site and is famous for its many historic whole of Europe during
Buddhist temples and tourist attractions.
Due to the limits on ministry resulting from World War Two
the government’s anti-Christian stance, the
team’s only form of ministry was confined
to prayer walks around the city. Even then,
we were told to be wary and to pray with
JUNE 2009 | liveline | 31

our eyes open so as not to draw unwanted
attention to ourselves. Some of us – myself
included – had a strong sense of spiritual
oppression and ongoing spiritual warfare
as we walked around the temples, but we
battled these feelings by repeatedly claiming
the name of Jesus and establishing His
throne in this predominantly Buddhist city.
Our final destination was the Laotian
capital of Vientiane, where we had the
opportunity to interact with the Singapore
Ambassador to Laos and learn about
the challenges facing Laos as a country.
Interestingly, we were told that all Vientiane-
based Singaporeans gathered every last
Friday of the month to fellowship at Novotel,
which is a Singaporean-owed hotel.
Truly, Laos is a beautiful country, but
also one that elicits much sadness. After
the Vietnam War, Laos was said to be “more
heavily bombed than the whole of Europe
during WWII”; many artillery shells remain
undetonated, even to this day!
The country is also largely “forgotten”
by the rest of the world, I mean, how many
32 | liveline | JUNE 2009
From Left: Some of the pupils in a spartan classroom
at the Mai Village School; Being a UNESCO World
Heritage Site, Luang Prabang has many such
restaurants and guesthouses catering to tourists.
times have we seen Laos mentioned in the
newspaper, if ever? In my mind, there is a
real need for the gospel to be brought to
this country because the natives are living in
spiritual bondage.
What struck me most was that many
of the Laotians appear to live without any
hope for the future. Our team’s call from
God was to bring hope to these people, and
to love them with the love of Christ. On
a personal level, God burdened my heart
with Isaiah 61:1-3; in particular, to “bind up
the brokenhearted” and “provide for those
who grieve in Zion – to bestow on them
a crown of beauty instead of ashes, the
oil of gladness instead of mourning, and
a garment of praise instead of a spirit of
despair.” I dare say we fulfilled God’s vision
for us, and in turn, we were richly blessed
as well. Meeting the missionary was the
highlight of the trip for many of us, especially
when she shared her incredible testimony
with us. Even though some time has passed
since my mission trip, Laos still holds a
special place in my heart.
ALL ACCESS
MUSIC
By ERIC CHIOK
Songs That Changed
The Church - HYMNS
Various Artists
This is a compilation
of some of our all-time favourite hymns
that played a significant part in the way
we as a church express our worship to
God in song. Among these are hymns
such as Amazing Grace, Be Thou My
Vision, Great Is Thy Faithfulness, and
you will find the remaining tracks very
fact box familiar as well. These timeless hymns
are performed by some of Christian
Laos, one of the world’s few music’s most popular artists. It brings
remaining communist states,
out how the church has grown through
is one of east Asia’s poorest
countries. Since the collapse of cultural changes and yet still keeping
the Soviet Union in 1991 it has true to the rich biblical truths these
struggled to find its position hymns carry and to the good news of
within a changing political and Steven Curtis Chapman the gospel.
economic landscape.
WOW Hits 2009
THIS MOMENT
Communist forces overthrew
the monarchy in 1975, heralding Various Artists
years of isolation. Laos began
opening up to the world in the This double-CD album
1990s, but despite tentative Steven Curtis Chapman needs no introduction.
reforms, it remains poor and
It’s an annual release of the best hits
dependent on international
donations. He’s one of Christian music’s veterans and he’s back Christian radio has to offer in the
with a new album after some three years. This album has past year. Among the track listings
Politics: Ruling communists a message about enjoying and experiencing God in the are regulars such as Chris Tomlin and
maintain a monopoly of political present moment and it’s most clearly brought out in the Switchfoot. Be sure to also check out
power. title track Miracle of the Moment. Like other veterans such several noteworthy and upcoming
Economy: One of the world’s
as Michael W. Smith, the challenge for Steven is keeping artiste such as soft-rockers Tenth
poorest nations, Laos has little
domestic industry and relies on true to his style while keeping relevant to current musical Avenue North with Love Is Here and
foreign aid; hopes are pinned on a tastes and Steven has done a pretty decent job at this, Jazz/R&B artist Brandon Heath with
hydroelectric project. adding a lot more rock to his usual pop style. On the tracks Give Me Your Eyes. Track for track, it may
International: Its communist Broken and With One Voice, it even sounds like a cross not be as memorable as previous WOW
regime is backed by China and
ERIC’s
Vietnam.
CHOICE between Chris Tomlin and Switchfoot. Also, one of his Hits, but nevertheless, its still the album
trademarks is the rich and meaningful lyrics. This album to go for if you want quick access to the
- SOURCE: BBC website
surely doesn’t disappoint. best hits the last year has to offer.
CDs are available at SKS Warehouse. Please call 6227 9700 for enquiries.
JUNE 2009 | liveline | 33
 ALL ACCESS
BOOKS
By SKS BOOKS
Becoming a
World-Changing Family
Author Donna Thomas
Publisher YWAM Publishing
An activity-packed book that will guide
and encourage you to lead a family that
is focused on one of the most important
tasks of a Christian - fulfilling the Great
Commission. From dinner invitations,
picnics, writing letters, taking trips,
playing games, and many more - author
Donna Thomas will share with you the
many possibilities of sharing the Gospel
through your family!
No Perfect
People Allowed
Author John Burke
Publisher Zondervan
Corporation
  
This is a powerful book that is written for
this generation and culture in mind - the
post-modern and perhaps even the post-
Christian generation. Attempting to break
down the 5 main barriers to authentic
church community (namely the lack of
trust, intolerance, falsehood, brokenness
and aloneness), author and pastor John
Burke shares why creating a culture of
dialogue, authenticity, acceptance, truth,
hope and connection can help your church
connect deeply with today’s generation.
 
Books are available at SKS Warehouse. Please call 6227 9700 for enquiries.
34 | liveline | JUNE 2009
The Culture-Wise Family
Author Ted Baehr &
Pat Boone
Publisher Regal Books
  
This is a book for parents who want
to raise their children to make wise
choices concerning the mass media and
entertainment that is rife in society today.
Written by Ted Baehr (noted movie critic,
educator, lecturer and media pundit) and
Pat Boone (a popular singer in the 50s and
60s), this work offers practical advice on
the world of the mass media and how it
affects the Christian family.
ALL ACCESS
TECH
By GORDON YUEN
A RENEWED
CHOKED WITH FEATURES
& REFURBISHED VIDEOS OF Weekly Sermons
Edited, uploaded and ready for viewing by 2am
the following day after any sermon
WEBSITE Weekly Prayers
Uploaded every Friday night for the following
Sunday’s services
www.aldersgate.sg
Liveline
Worshipping with AMC since November 2007 and through the Working on having every published issue
ministry of the weekly teachings (and Biblical admonishments), I had available online
come to grow in the Lord, having consciously and deliberately walked
away from Him for several years. That period of relationship renewal Gallery
with God brought about a quiet desire to serve Him in a tangible Showcasing hundreds of photos of events held
way with the talents He had given. Thus began the re-building of the by various AMC ministries
AMC website in Nov 2008. At the same time, through God’s Grace, He
ministered to me and gave me the opportunity to re-build my own life Blog
as well. Crafting the site led to many, wonderful hours conversing with Direct posting of blog entries and comments
God, through reading His Word and prayerful considerations for the through emails, for anyone to share news and
overall design, layout and concept. other activities of the church
Today, the site has many pages. They each tell a different story - of
the people and the lives in AMC. More website features will be added myAMC
in the coming weeks and months. Like trees that bear the rings of time Latest feature – providing a rich media
in their trunks, I hope that the AMC website will leave an ongoing community platform for members to create
history of the sights and sounds of the life of the church, its people and individual pages and content to share and grow
more importantly our walks with God. their online experiences with young and old
members and friends of the church.
JUNE 2009 | liveline | 35
 ALL ACCESS UPCOMING
EVENTS
Lobang by Leslie Chiang

LOBANGS
Aldergate’s
recipes from
As our church celebrates 30 years of God’s blessings, LiveLine managed to gather some of
See www.aldersgate.sg for more updates

JULY 09

the heart
Aldergate Methodist Church’s chefs to share their favourite recipes with us. Enjoy them! June 09
21.06 05.07
Fathers’ Day Youth Sunday
By GERALDINE ANG
24.06 19.07
LCEC Meeting Church Conference

27.06 31.07
Family Day Prayer & Praise

29.06 AUGUST 09
PCG Leaders’ Quarterly 28.08
Meeting Methodist Schools’ Staff
Get-Together

HIGHLIGHT
3. Heat oil, fry dried shrimps and 2. Cut yam 1cm thick, crosswise
set aside 3. Steam yam for 30 minutes, or July 09

29.07
4. Heat oil, sauté onions until until soft
soft, add mee siam paste 4. Put yam in mixing bowl, add
From Florence Ang rice, mix and
5. Stir in fried dried shrimps, tapioca flour and knead to a fine
GLUTINOUS RICE (Serve hot) blend well
tamarind or lime juice, sugar paste
1 kg glutinous rice, wash & soak 3. Transfer mixture into a
and salt 5. Roll paste to a 2.5cm ball and
for 3 hours steamer tray and steam for 1
6. Add beehoon, bean sprouts, press lightly in the middle. Set
8 cloves garlic, finely chopped hour. Allow rice to cool Methodist Welfare Services
chives and dried bean curd. Mix aside
250g dried prawns, 4. Garnish with fried shallots, Golf Tournament
thoroughly. 6. Bring water to boil and place
wash & drain red chilli strips and sliced spring
250g dried Chinese black onion. Serve 7. Garnish with hard boiled egg yam coins into boiling water
7. When cooked, yam coins will
FELLOWSHIP ON THE GREENS
mushrooms, cut into small cube and prawn (optional)
rise to the top Tanah Merah Country Club (Tampines Course)
& soak till soft From Chan Chui Foong
8. Remove and immerse into
3 tbsp light soya sauce Dry Mee Siam From Chan Chui Foong
Yam Coins cold water for about 10 mins
3 tbsp black dark soya sauce 1 pkt Beehoon Through this annual charity golf event, the MWS hopes
1 kg yam root 9. Remove and mix with some
1 tbsp pepper I bottle ready-made mee siam to raise $300,000 to help the terminally ill, elderly poor,
2 cups tapioca flour oil to prevent yam coins from
2 tsp salt paste homeless, needy families and at-risk children and youth.
7 tbsp peanut cooking oil sticking together. Set aside
1 tsp five spice powder Bean sprouts Read more at www.mws.org.sg
(a handful or more if preferred) 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
300g minced pork COOKING
Garnishing Chives (koo chye), cut to 2cm
50g dried cuttlefish strips 1. Soak cuttlefish, mushrooms Guest of Honour: Dr Vivian Balakrishnan,
30 pcs shallots, finely sliced & fry long
50g mushroom strips and dried shrimps separately. Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports.
till golden brown 2 cups of dried shrimp,
50g dried shrimps Drain
3 red chilli, sliced into strips chopped coarsely
Pepper 2. Heat oil in work, fry garlic until
8 stalks spring onion, cut thinly Dried bean curd (tau pok),
Fish sauce (to taste if preferred/ fragrant
cut into strips
optional) 3. Add minced pork, cuttlefish,
Method 1 onion, chopped coarsely
Spring onion, cut into 2cm long mushroom and dried shrimps
1. Fry garlic over medium heat. 3 tbsp of tamarind or lime juice
Chinese parsley 4. Stir fry and add in cooked
Add dried prawns, mushroom, 1 tsp sugar
yam coins and fry for a further 5
light & dark soya sauce, pepper, Salt, to taste
PREPARATION minutes.
salt, five spice powder and fry for Method
1. Pare yam root. Handle with 5. Add a dash of pepper. Remove
25 minutes until fragrant 1. Scald beehoon and set aside
Go to www.aldersgate.sg for more recipes! plastic gloves. Sap may cause Garnish with spring onion and
2. Turn off heat. Add glutinous 2. Parboil bean sprouts & chives.
itchiness parsley. Serve

36 | liveline | JUNE 2009