Entering into the second quarter, things are picking up. After all, the
season for festivities has, sort of, ended. I’m in Ipoh for a two-week class in
Cultural Anthropology. We meet in the evenings from Mon-Thurs and permit me to
return Penang over the weekend in between. Holding classes of similar topics
lessen me the time of preparations. As of today, the syllabus has concluded for
the Ipoh certificate/diploma module and tonight is the final session where
students will be sitting for the test. There are ten students in attendance:
one certificate and nine diploma students. Two inactive diploma students came
back to revive their academic journey. A total of two certificate graduates are
upgrading to their diploma which means additional funding will need to be
sourced for them (RM1500 x 1; RM1800 x 1 [one student upgrade from STM Certificate
of Christian Ministry n one student upgrading from MBS Certificate in Bible
Studies])
Elsewhere in Penang, class ended for the Discipleship course in Prai
and SP just begun this class. The enrolment for SP class increased to 19
students.
One of the co-founders of SAM will be in town next month. The entire
SAM network will try to meet each time he is in this part of the world. Thus,
there will be a meeting in Cameron Highlands early next month for this purpose –
update of SAM ministry. Besides us, SAM Northern Centers, there are SAM
networks in Klang Valley and JB.
In the meantime, SAM Northern Centers has been consulted in a proposal
to begin SAM Southern Centers. Further details have yet to be finalized. We are
also in the process of proof-reading of a commentary where its completion will
see the joint publication with other seminaries in Malaysia. A big thank you to
our sponsors who share the burden to develop the BM theological education
ministry in Malaysia.
In June, we will launch the first Master in Ministry module in
partnership with Seminari Teologi Sabah (STS). STS will be sending their
lecturer to teach our students, consisting of BM pastors base in Peninsular.
While some are able to claim their course fees from their sending churches, we
have a small pool of funds for a few who need scholarship. However, we do
welcome more contribution to ease the pastors’ expenses as they seek to upgrade
theologically. Classes will be held in Ipoh at St Peter’s Church. Thus far we
have eight students but still short of two as STS requested a minimum of ten
students to justify the cost of sending their lecturers here. Do pray with us
for BM pastors/church leaders to be convicted in this capacity. This STS-SAM
partnership will greatly reduce time/expenses while ensuring quality
theological education to our BM counterparts.
Apart from classroom activities, we are also seeking partnership
between urban and rural churches. Thus far, we have two possible partnerships
and both (Chinese) churches in Penang have planned their visit to the rural
locations for further exposure, understanding, and planning. We hope to
establish more long-term partnerships. Do join us to pray for more such
partnerships. I am exploring one possibility with a church in Ipoh. Let me know
if you’d like more details on this matter.
Again, I greatly appreciate your partnership in this exciting ministry.
There are huge challenges but they appear small because I am confident of God’s
hand upon us through each one of you who prays for us, encourages us, and
supports us. Should you need further information to be more involved, feel free
to drop me a line or two.
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