One year short of thirty I have been in the workforce with twenty years in fulltime ministry. In the eyes of the world, I am pretty much a “failure” because I finally own a new car. That too is no fancy vehicle but a simple Axia (with a Penang number plate). No, I am happy the way life is right now. I am happy I can be confident I am in God’s will. And I am happy that each turn of event is ordained by God. It has been an adventure walking with God and I have no regrets that I “missed out” on certain luxuries/comforts of the world. If there is any regret, it is the regret that I have not entered ministry much earlier. Yes, ministry is no bed of roses but through it all, God’s hand makes all things beautiful in its time. I have entered half a century old but that is just some chronological calculation. And I have made a new commitment to continue to pursue further training to better equip myself to train God’s people. So, I have begun my second doctoral studies which is completely research-based with a seminary in Australia. While the Seminary is sponsoring my studies, they have also asked if I can chip in, in partnership. As such, I would like to appeal for financial partnership. The total cost is AUS$51,840 but I would like to attempt in raising about one third of it. With the current exchange rate, it is equivalent to MYR 158,188. If God so moved you and I sincerely pray God will (to some or most of you), please send your contribution to
Seminari Theoloji Malaysia Public Bank Account No. 3-0647599-00; RHB Bank Account No. 2-14389-0006441-9
…indicating the fund is for my doctoral studies. And why am I pursuing a second doctorate? To replace my fellow colleagues with PhD who are retiring one after another. The number of PhD holders must be met in order to qualify for ATESEA accreditation for our Seminary degrees. (Btw, if you are wondering why I am pursuing another doctorate: My first doctorate is Doctor of Missiology and it is a professional doctorate while a PhD is an academic doctorate. That is how the academic circle defines doctorates)
SAM updates:
SAM Ipoh (Tapah) has taken a break. As mentioned earlier there are some leadership issues with the denomination leaders and I’m waiting for further updates on where/how to re-start the teaching point in that area.
SAM Penang (Prai) had completed two classes: one is the physical weekly class, the other an intensive zoom class. Next week, they are embarking on the third class, ie., weekly zoom class. Thus far, things are progressing well there. We are learning to use zoom n may continue to adopt a hybrid approach beyond 2020.
I am hoping to raise more local teachers into the teaching team n also to provide a platform for young ministers to build their teaching skills through SAM. This year I have managed to recruit some new names. COVID has delayed n changed many plans but I invite you to join me in praying for this ministry and opportunities to enlarge its capacity to train indigenous local leaders, either as teacher or as student.
Once again, thank you for your partnership in ministry
TSB
29082020
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