Where will you be going?

My family and I will be going to the United States for the next two years. My wife, Joyce, and myself have been admitted to Princeton Theological Seminary in New Jersey. Joyce will be doing a Master of Arts focusing on Christian Education while I will be doing a Master of Theology. My daughter who is now in Primary Two will be enrolled in a public school there.

Share with us how you came to this decision.

Not many knew that more than three years ago, I applied to go on study leave as I felt that I needed a break from the ministry. The Lord spoke to me clearly telling me that it was not time yet. Although the way was clear, I had to withdraw. Our church went on to complete the building project and also to come to a decision to spearhead a daughter congregation, HOPE (House Of Prayer and Evangelism) Methodist Mission in the North East of which I was involved in the project.

As the preaching point project took shape, I felt the Lord speaking to me that like David in the Bible, I will be the one gathering the resources and people for the building of the temple but a Solomon will be raised to complete the building. The Lord further revealed to me that it was because He wanted HOPE to be for His glory alone. If I were to continue with the project, it may become my project. This message was confirmed by a very close friend who called me one week later with the exact same message.

Because of this and some other events, and in consultation and with the blessings of the key leaders in the church, I made the decision to apply for study leave. I applied to a few places. By the divine grace of God, I was admitted to Princeton Theological Seminary. Princeton has also offered me their Presidential Scholarship which I have accepted.

Will you be posted back to Paya Lebar after your leave ends?

This all depends on the President of TRAC (Trinity Annual Conference) when I complete my studies. As a Methodist pastor, our appointment is on a year-to-year basis. Depending on the needs of the Conference and the leading of God, pastors are posted to the different churches.

What are your memories of Paya Lebar Methodist Church?

I must say that PLMC holds a very special place in my heart. This was the church that my parents were married in and where I was baptised as an infant almost 38 years ago. I have been a pastor for over nine years and five-and-a-half of my pastorate was in PL. When I first came to be a pastor here, I was apprehensive as to how I would be accepted back home. I thank God and all of you for accepting me as a pastor. I am grateful to God that all my fears were proven unfounded.

I look back and thank God for the way we have grown in ministry and prayers. I recall with affection especially the building up of the Contemporary Service, HOPE Methodist Mission, the setting up of The Boys' Brigade in Rosyth School and Ponggol Primary. I thank God also for the way that He has released me into further ministry here especially in the prayer and deliverance ministry.

The times we have shared together in fellowship and ministry are all carved into my heart as beautiful memories. I treasure the friendships and fellowship of the other two pastors and the staff. Many of you have become a very special part of our lives. There are so many things I remember fondly that if I go into specifics, there will be no end.

Any regrets?

My regret is that I did not have the time and capacity to get to know every worshipper. If I had unintentionally offended anyone in my interactions, I would like to ask for your forgiveness.

How can we contact you?

Once my address is ready, it will be left with the Church Office.

Any last words?

I want to thank you for the memories, the love and support for my family and me. Thank you! Do pray for us as we embark on a new phase in our lives.

May the Lord bless Paya Lebar and grant a mighty renewal here as we grow in love and service for HIM!