St James' Church

Our year ends on a sad and violent note with the assassination of yet another important national leader. The worse is yet to come as the situation in Pakistan unfolds. Pray for the stability of this nation. And with oil prices spiralling out of control, we need to continue to pray for His sovereign reign and peace in the midst of international chaos. Jesus both warned and promised, “In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world (John 16:33).” As we face a new year, may we draw closer to our Lord and find our security in Him. 

2008 will be an eventful year for SJC as we prepare for a season of change with the construction of the new building. Along with that is the process of working out the 5-year vision. This will continue in earnest after the New Year. It has been my prayer that the Lord will lead and inspire us to see the church and her work in accordance with His will. There are so many out there – including increasingly, many non-Singaporeans – who have yet to hear the Gospel. And as we do so, to grow closer to each other as a community and family, and treasure each person and family which the Lord has brought into our midst or influence. 

2008 will also mark a season of ministry change for Pas Richard Chung. He will be moving over to serve fulltime in the growing Kindergarden. Added to his role of Supervisor and Chaplain, will be the responsibility of the General Manager as he helps to provide leadership to the various aspects of the development of SJCK. It is a needed and exciting move given the potential of this work ‘where every child (and his/her family) matters.’

Cells will resume their meetings this week (or for some, a week later). The first meeting will be a good time for informal and personal sharing of thanksgiving for a year that is past. If there is a resolution we need to make this year, it should be a renewed commitment to be a part of a Cell. I can think of no better expression of church life than that which a Cell can provide. It is however something which will need every member’s commitment and participation.

We can also expect our fund-raising efforts to resume in earnest next month. Do continue to manage your funds with the priority of God’s work in mind. The new Alpha season is also starting. Do pray and plan to invite someone.

And as the year turns, do continue to remember both the Lim families in Hanoi and Jakarta. An email, letter or gift will always be appreciated.