Celebrating His Goodness

Regarding our Anniversary Service-cum-Dinner, I would like to reiterate that we

want everyone to worship and celebrate with us at this once-in-50-years event.

If cost is an issue, please let Kenneth or Lillian Kek know.

Preparations are underway as we plan for a meaningful evening of celebration.

We want to acknowledge what God has done in and through MPCC over the

years.

Having served in various parishes, I have gained some insight into parish life

and fruitfulness. MPCC has consistently “punched above her weight”, despite

not possessing some of the advantages and resources available to larger

parishes.

She has given birth to many significant churches and ministries, both locally

and overseas, even if some did not remain within the Diocesan fold. Her

church-planting DNA is truly distinctive and continues to shape her outlook

today. I have met many older members who have not grown weary of church

life and ministry. Many still have dreams for MPCC and long to see her remain

fruitful in the years ahead.

Our members also come from diverse educational backgrounds. We appreciate

MPCC’s longstanding heart for the broken. This was evident even in her early

involvement with Anglican Welfare Services and in the establishment of a

Saturday service to welcome people into her community. Our continual

involvement with SACH and SAAH is an evident of that.

In recent years, newer members have joined us, many bringing a willingness to

give and serve. Their presence has significantly enriched our ministry. Simply

look around and you will see that this is true. As I sometimes say to others,

“The Lord has not forgotten MPCC!”

In Singapore, we naturally tend to admire larger and prominent churches.

During my early days at St James’ Church, I once heard a friend remark rather

disparagingly, “Your kindergarten is more famous than your church!” Of course,

this is no longer true. But at the time, I felt the weight of that statement

because it carried the unspoken quiet expectations of what ministry success

entails.

I believe I am in a good position to question this mentality. I do not begrudge

churches that have experienced significant growth, for I have served in some of

them. Neither am I unfamiliar with pastoring smaller parishes. These varied experiences have led me to see things differently and evaluate each parish

within her own context rather than comparing. I also apply some of these

perspectives in my limited role of guiding the work at Chapel of Christ our

Hope.

And I can see that MPCC possesses qualities that augur well for her future.

Like Paul, we can say, “He who began a good work in you will bring it to

completion at the day of Jesus Christ” (Philippians 1:6).

And it is my prayer that “your love may abound more and more, with

knowledge and all discernment” (Philippians 1:9).

So, my fellow brothers and sisters, there is much to celebrate in our 50th

Anniversary Year. MPCC has her own unique story.

And may this love, joy and faith propel us forward for the years to come and

discover afresh His will and purposes for us.