MICA (P) 111/02/2015GRACE ASSEMBLY OF GOD

APRIL 2015 ISSUE

When we announced to the church that we have enough funds for the Grace Redevelopment, thunderous applause broke out in every congregation. It was a memorable moment and personally, I will remember this very special moment for the rest of my life.

I have mentioned many times that we are embarking on a journey of faith and in this journey, we all have experienced the grace of God in a very powerful way. From the beginning, I committed the whole journey to the Lord and my one prayer is that, ‘Lord, You surprise us’ and indeed He surprised us beyond our human imagination.

Again and again, the Lord showed His great faithfulness to Grace Assembly. In all her past building projects, Grace Assembly has been debt-free and this latest Redevelopment work, which is the most costly, again is also debt-free. To God be all the glory!

Nevertheless, the journey of faith does not end just because we have sufficient funds. The journey continues because it is not just about the physical building but more importantly, the Kingdom of God. We are called to build His Kingdom and as a Missional Family Church, we want to see more souls added to His Kingdom.

Now that we have a better facility, how can we effectively use the building as a means to fulfill the Great Commission?

Now that we are about to move back, what changes do we need to make, in order to be more effective for His Kingdom?

Now that we have experienced God in such a powerful way, how can we continue to believe Him for even greater breakthroughs in the church?

Now that we have used our savings over the years, how can we continue to trust the Lord to provide for the on-going thrust in building His Kingdom?

The journey continues ...

Senior Pastor Calvin Lee

JOURNEY OF FAITH CONTINUES ...

B U L L E T I NAsia Christian Conference

Grace Journal Testimonies

05

An Evening With The Carpenters

13 16

WORLD PRAYER @ J333

“My house will be called a house of prayer for all nations.” - Isaiah 56:7

This month we will be praying for NEPAL.

With strongholds of Hinduism and Buddhism in the country, only 7% of the population is Christian. Until 1990, Nepal is the only Hindu kingdom in the world, but even now, government policies are against Christianity. Though the oppression is strong, God has been faithful through the works of NGOs helping to tackle social issues, and the church has been growing steadily. Nothing can stop the move of God in that land. Come join us as we pray for the Kingdom of Nepal!

Focus: Grace Missions Partners in Nepal

8 April 2015 (Wednesday)

7:30 - 8:30 pm

St John’s St Margaret’s church (SJSM), 30 Dover Ave, Singapore 139790.

For enquires, please send email to matthew.tan@graceaog.org

J333

J333 PRAYER MEETINGS FOR APRIL

1 April Church Matters

8 April World Prayer – Praying for Nepal

15 April Healing @J333

22 April Church ministry – NEXUS

29 April Singapore Jubilee 50

Venue: St John’s St Margaret’s Church (SJSM), L3 Glory Sanctuary, 30 Dover Avenue, Singapore 139790

Time: Wednesdays, 7.30 – 8.30pm

As we celebrate our homecoming to the new Grace building this year, we want to honour pioneering Gracians who have been with the church through thick and thin, and are today still with the church along with their families and their next generations.

If you were attending Grace Assembly since 1975* (or know someone who did), and who are still in Grace today: please let us know, as we have a very special surprise in store for you!

* the year before the demolition of the bungalow, which was the first church building

Please email your following details to GracePioneer1975@graceaog.org before 30 June 2015:

Name in full [Chinese if applicable]:

Year started attending Grace Assembly [must be 1975 or before]:

Mailing address:

Email (if available):

Contact no:

Service attending now: [For example, English services at GI or GII/Cantonese Service, Mandarin GI or GII service, or Hokkien service]

Hurry – don’t miss out on this opportunity to stand alongside other Grace Pioneers who are our history makers!

CALLING ALL GRACE PIONEERS – WE WANT TO HONOUR YOU!

THE HOLY LAND TOURAn Israel & Jordan Biblical Tour (12 Days 10 Nights) is planned on 5-16 December 2015!

The estimated cost* per person is as follows:Adult @ S$3,640 (twin sharing) Child @ S$3,400 (bed sharing room with adults)* includes airfare, majority of meals, local transport/transfer by coach buses & accommodation, excluding airline fuel surcharge & airport taxes (approx $650).

If you are interested and would like to better appreciate the Holy Scriptures: Step 1: jot down & save these dates in your calendar!Step 2: email your name and contact details to jacilia.ong@graceaog.org

Note that due to limited spaces, reservations are on a first-come-first-serve basis.

The Tour is organized solely for GRACIANS only. More detailed information will be emailed to you.

02CHURCHWIDE

APRIL 2015

Churchwide Events: April - June 20151 Apr (Wed) J333 Prayer meeting (combined) SJSM^ 7.30pm3 Apr (Fri) Good Friday services GII Sanctuary 9am, 11.15am4-5 Apr Missions Conference MSC*, Furama Riverfront, GII28-30 Apr Asia Christian Conference GII Sanctuary “Now Is The Time” Rick Joyner & Lance Wallnau 9-10 May Mother’s Day celebrations MSC*, Furama Riverfront, GII8-11 Jun Church Camp (Chinese) Equatorial hotel, Melaka, Msia18-22 Jun Grace Retreat Putrajaya Marriott Hotel KL, Msia13-14, 21-22 Jun Father’s Day celebrations MSC*, Furama Riverfront, GII

Ministry Events: April 20151-22 Apr (Weds) Women of Grace WOG-DBS GII Praise Room 10am5 Apr (Sun) Water Baptism Furama Riverfront 10.45am11Apr-23May (Sats) Women of Grace WOG-SBS Orchard Plaza 10am12 Apr (Sun) Mandarin & Youth R-AGE services Furama City Centre 11.15am12 Apr (Sun) Filipino combined with English svc Furama Riverfront 11.15am18 Apr (Sat) GI Parents Dialogue GII Sanctuary, Chapel 10am25 Apr (Sat) Grace Groups Leaders Mtg (GGLM) GII Sanctuary 10am26 Apr (Sun) CAM Sunday JAM session GII Sanctuary 2.30pm

* My Saviour’s Church (MSC)^ St John’s St Margaret’s church (SJSM)

Event details are subject to changes, please refer to www.graceaog.org for latest info & updates.

“Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” Luke 2:49b, NKJV

The Lord Jesus has sent each one of us on a mission: to be and to take the gospel to where we are. It is an exciting and worthwhile challenge to do that as individuals and as a church, but sometimes we all can become discouraged and feel unmotivated to share our faith.

This second quarter’s sermon series will answer the question: why should I embrace the missional life? The series comes in three main parts: Saviour, Souls and Salvation. We will discover the father-heart of our Creator God, the precious value of each soul, the dire consequences of sin, the sacrifice and love of our Saviour Jesus to free us from that, and the utter delight and joy when we see each person in heaven!

Throughout each sermon, let us ask God to help us recapture the passion of sharing our faith. That is our calling and purpose of being His church. Let’s be His missional family church and be about our Father’s soul business!

Sermon 1 – The Glory Of God Sermon 2 – The Father’s HeartSermon 3 – Reality Of HellSermon 4 – If I Were The DevilSermon 5 – A Glimpse Of HeavenSermon 6 – Cost Of The SoulSermon 7 – That None Should Perish

SERMON SERIES: APRIL - JUNE 2015

SUNDAY SERVICES ON 12 APRIL 2015On 12 April 2015, three Sunday services at Furama Riverfront Hotel will be moved to the following locations. Other services remain unchanged.

Furama City Centre, Singapore60 Eu Tong Sen Street, Singapore 059804 Tel: (65) 6533 3888http://www.furama.com/citycentre/Location/Map

Services Location Services timing

Mandarin service @City Centre Grand Ballroom Level 5, 11.15 am Furama City Centre Hotel Youth R-AGE service @City Centre Grand Ballroom Level 5, 11.15 am Furama City Centre HotelFilipino service combined with Venus Ballroom Level 3, 11.15 am English @Riverfront Furama Riverfront Hotel

03CHURCHWIDE

APRIL 2015

EVENTS CALENDAR

POSITION AVAILABLE FOR SUPPORT STAFFThe church is looking for someone who has the passion to serve and join the administrative team:

Key Responsibilities:- Provide administrative support to the pastoral team of Grace Communities

(GC), including taking minutes of team meetings- Maintain and update all related monthly statistics records- Assist in planning and maintaining of computer folders pertaining to leaders’

meetings and Leadership Development Training- Co-ordination and distribution of Grace Groups (GG) materials- Arrange and coordinate ministry events and the use of resources- Maintenance and updating of database

Requirements:- At least a good ‘O’ level certificate- Good Knowledge and application of Microsoft Office 2010 - Good communication, interpersonal and organizational skills- Has initiative and able to work in teams

Interested applicants are invited to submit detailed resume: indicating work experience, current and expected salaries, and recent photograph to:

Sally ChowGrace Assembly of God, 1 Bukit Batok West Avenue 4Singapore 659125. Or email to: sally.chow@graceaog.org

Hi I’m Deve Tano, one of the new staff in Grace serving in Finance Department. I was born and raised in the Philippines with Catholic background. As the eldest of 4 siblings I felt that it was my duty to feed my family financially. So I decided to work overseas. I was working in Middle East (Doha, Qatar) for 3 year as an Accounts Executive and was enjoying a care-free life. But my relationship with God was missing. Back then going to church was just a duty and

FEATURED STAFF Deve Tano

praying was only done on Sundays. Bible was available but cannot even remember reading it. It was in my loneliness that I felt God’s presence and guidance.

After a year I met my Christian wife who happened to be my neighbour back in the Philippines, and she was working in Singapore. It was through my wife that I got to know more of Jesus. After we got married, I decided to relocate with her. Our first year as a couple I could say was not so easy because I was not able to find a job immediately. That time I felt that God is trying to measure my faith and patience. It was then that I began my journey with God.

Though I already accepted Jesus as my Lord and personal Saviour, there was a hunger to know and experience Him more. It was during those hard times that’s where I received a message from God to seek Him first and all these this shall be added unto you. It was in my emptiness that I felt His presence which reminded me of His word. “Come to Me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. Take My yoke upon you and learn from Me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. For My yoke is easy and My burden is light.” (Matthew 11:28-30) God is doing miracles in my life.

I am now part of the media team in Grace Filipino Ministry and love worshiping God through music. Now that I enjoy living by His grace, it is my desire that the rest of our family in the Philippines will one day experience the fullness of God’s love and accept Him as their Lord and Saviour.

MINISTRIES04

APRIL 2015

POSITIONS AVAILABLE IN FACILITIES DEPTThe church is inviting suitable candidates to apply for the following positions, to assist in the maintenance, operations & upkeep of buildings & premises at Tanglin Road or Bukit Batok locations. FACILITIES OFFICERResponsibilities:· To maintain and upkeep all aspects of facilities and building, including M&E

& plumbing, lighting, furniture and fittings, air-conditioning and safety compliance

· Logistically assist in all events as required by staff and church members· Manage and oversee contract cleaners in the upkeep and cleanliness of

premises· Oversee traffic controllers and car parking at premises

Requirements:· Diploma in Mechanical and Electrical (M&E) or relevant qualifications· Preferably minimum 3 years of working experience· Experience in building maintenance and M&E skills would be advantageous· Bilingual in English and Mandarin

FACILITIES ASSISTANTResponsibilities:· Assist in maintenance of building, repair work of fixtures, fittings & furnishings· Perform daily schedule to supervise cleaning & inspection of fixtures, fittings

& furnishings· Assist in opening & closing, securing the building premises before & after

office hours

Requirements:· At least O levels or ITE vocational certificate· Preferably minimum 2 years of working experience· Experience in building maintenance and M&E skills would be advantageous· Attention to details of building assets – fixtures, M&E fittings, furnishings etc

Interested applicants are invited to submit detailed resume: indicating position applying for, work experience, current and expected salaries, and recent photograph to:

Sally ChowGrace Assembly of God1 Bukit Batok West Avenue 4Singapore 659125.Or email to: sally.chow@graceaog.org

ALPHA GET-TOGETHERCalling all Who have been part of the Alpha Course (as guests or ex-helpers) Those want to find out more about Alpha Those who want to serve on the Alpha

Purpose Time of fellowship and finding out how our Alpha guests are doing now Find out more about the course Find out about opportunities to serve on Alpha Pray and invite your love ones to Alpha

Date: 11 April 2015 (Saturday)Time: 12.00 – 3.00 pmVenue: GII L2 Praise RoomNote: Lunch will be provided

Please email to alpha@graceaog.org to register, by 6 April 2015.

GRACE JOURNAL – TESTIMONIES

On the last day of 2014, we attended the Watch Night Service at GII and what greeted us was the pile of Grace Journals near the entrance of the Sanctuary. We helped ourselves to two copies and we believed it is the best new year “Gift” in 2015.

My wife and I really benefited from using the Grace Journal since 2013. It made us read the bible daily and journal our reflections and responses to the Scriptures. We meditated and let the Holy Spirit lead us in our journaling.

Through journaling, we have a better understanding of God’s Words and it has powerfully transformed our lives. We encourage all Gracians to use the Grace Journal and be “Clothed With Power” in 2015.

~ John Ng (JW St 65 GG)

Grace Journal for Quarter 2 of 2015 is ready for collection outside all service halls.

It is never too late to start the journey with us!

I want to thank God for the Grace journal which has motivated me to read God’s word regularly. It has always been my desire to read through the whole Bible at least once but regretfully I have not done so after so many years. Prior to the Grace Journal, I have tried many bible reading programs over the years but have always given up half way.

The Grace Journal has really helped me to discipline myself in reading the Bible as it only requires me to read 1-2 chapters of the Bible daily. I am also guided by the questions which lead me to examine the chapters deeper and do some reflection, at the same time, during my journaling I am also writing my prayers to God!

To my surprise, I was able to follow through the daily journaling in 2014 and always look forward to the new journal book every quarter!

Praise God, from Jan 2014 to Jan 2015, I have already completed reading & journaling 19 books of the Bible! I really believe that by doing my Grace Journal diligently this year, I will be able to complete the whole Bible by end of 2015!!

I want to thank the team working behind the Grace Journal and really appreciate them for their unceasing efforts in compiling the Grace Journal which has been a great blessing to me and many Grace members to keep up the good work. God bless!

~ Serene Tan (Relax-lah Ladies GG)

GI PARENTS DIALOGUECalling all parents/guardians attending GI services! If your child is a pre-teen (11-14 years old) and/or youth (13-19 years old) in 2016, this meeting is for you. There is an exciting new direction and some significant changes for the pre-teens and youth ministry taking place in 2016 after we move back to new GI building at 355 Tanglin Road.

Ps Calvin and the NEXUS leadership team would like to invite all parents of pre-teens and youths attending GI pre-teens or youth services next year for this special dialogue. We will share with you the important new plans and ministry programming, how it may affect you and your child, and also invite you to give us feedback.

Date: 18 April 2015 (Saturday)Time: 10.00 am to 12 noonVenue: GII L4 Chapel

Please register your attendance with jac.tang@graceaog.org by 14 April 2015.

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APRIL 2015

MINISTRIES

我听见了… (谭锡辉弟兄口述，詹巧娥编写)

在未信主前，我是一个很沉迷于拜偶像的人。每当我听到哪个神好，就会去请哪个神回家。于是，家里堆放着大大小小、各种各样的偶像，看起来就好像一间庙宇。

那时，我很反对耶稣。然而，孩子们却一个接一个的归信耶稣。为此，我经常责骂他们，认为他们吃的、穿的、上学读书以及所拥有的一切，都是我的功劳，为

家庭付出努力的成果。但是，他们却不以我为大，不以我的信仰为他们的信仰，并且不服从我、背叛我，使我非常的生气。

有一天，我无意中在大女儿的书包里，找到一些教会的单张，我很生气地轰她出家门，又把她的书包和衣服都丢到门外去。我以为这样做，她就会害怕、就会屈服，可是她仍然继续去教会。后来，几个信主的女儿还邀请牧师回家，要与我分享神的道，向我传福音。虽然，在礼貌上我是很欢迎牧师们的探访，也很乐意听他们的分析，但我却不明白牧师说的话，一字一句也没放在心上。当牧师走了之后，我还追着孩子们来打骂！

在我退休之后，儿女们每个礼拜都去教会崇拜，而我则每个星期都驾车载送他们到教堂，然后把车泊在路边，等他们散会。那时，我有一个两岁多的孙女，经常在教堂跑进跑出，还硬要拉我进去教堂，可是我却硬着心不肯进去。拉扯之间，我的太太游说我不如顺顺小孙女的意思，免得她四处走动。最后，我答应孙女的要求，小孙女便高高兴兴地拖着我的手进去教堂。

这之后的一个早上， 我坐在客厅看报纸。忽然，有一个声音在我耳边响起来，“拿掉它， 拿掉它！”我还以为是太太在说话，但她却说没有。第二天，同样的声音又再响起，“把它丢掉，把它丢掉！”我又再问太太是否在说话，但她还是说没有。就这样，连续三天我都听到那一把声音，而且越来越响亮。正当我感到非常困惑的时候，我突然间觉察到，那是孩子们的神在向我说话！于是我和太太商量，决定要把摆在家里多年的偶像丢掉。

当我们把全部的偶像彻底拆除之后，就不再听到那个声音了。此后，我心里很想去教会，因为太太是广东人，于是我的女儿就四处打听，寻找有广东崇拜的教会，后来就找到了恩典堂。

原来，儿女们为我和太太的救恩祷告了十多年，我们不但都没有相信，还一直逼迫他们。奇妙的是，我们只是为了顺顺小孙女的意思，走进教会绕个圈，神的灵就进入我的心，让我认识祂的大能，直到如今已经三十年了。现在，我和我的家人在任何境况下，事事以基督的心为心，每天带着感恩的心来活。这些日子以来，无论在教会事奉或是差传事工上，我都尽心尽力，愿一切荣耀颂赞都归与那施恩典的神！

- 谭锡辉弟兄

CHINESE MINISTRIES06

APRIL 2015

“Enlarge the place of your tent, stretch your tent curtains wide, do not hold back; lengthen your cords, strengthen your stakes.” Isaiah 54:2

The Coolest Drop-in Place in Bukit Batok

Dedication of REACH Youth Powerhouse @ Blk 417 Bukit Batok West Street 4

In the Lord’s perfect time, REACH Youth Powerhouse has come into being. Since 2006 when Grace Assembly of God (GII) took root in Bukit Batok, we have been working towards building a Youth Centre to reach out to youths in the neighbourhood. Our first proposal to Dr Amy Khor, Hong Kah North Constituency Advisor and the then Mayor of South West CDC, was dated 2008.

In Jan 2015, REACH Youth Powerhouse started operations to serve the community in Bukit Batok West. A long wait and an exhilarating journey of ups and downs no doubt, but arriving at this milestone again reminds us that our God is faithful.

On Mar 7, Pastor Calvin Lee led the Management Committee and staff of RCSS, Executive Church Board (ECB) and staff of Grace Assembly, in the dedication of our new Youth Centre and Youth staff team for our Lord’s service.

At the dedication service, Joe Chan, Head of REACH Youth, shared an excerpt from the book A Passion for Souls by Dr JH Jowett which has been ringing deep in his heart: “The gospel of a broken heart demands the ministry of bleeding hearts. When our sympathy loses its pang we can no longer be the servants of the passion. We can never heal the needs we do not feel. Tearless hearts can never be heralds of the passion. We must pity if we would redeem. We must bleed if we could be ministers of the saving blood.” This is his driving force as he leads his team to be ministers of the saving blood of Jesus.

With REACH Youth Powerhouse in full operation, the REACH Youth team will function from two locations (Bishan and Bukit Batok) reaching to different groups of youths.

In addition to youth work, REACH Youth Powerhouse will also be used (during the mornings when most of the youths are at school) to support outreach work to other community groups in the Hong Kah North area.

With a service motto “Activating Strengths, Reaching Potential”, REACH Youth will engage with the youth community, and walk with them in their journey to discover their strengths, so that they can then reach out to attain their God-given potential.

REACH Youth Powerhouse is equipped with a small gym, a room for jamming sessions, a kitchen, counselling rooms and a large activity space which can also be converted quickly into a study or tuition area. There are also cosy places for a chat and for drop-in, as well as hangout space after school.

To maximise use of the facility for outreach, REACH Youth Powerhouse can also be utilised to support Grace Assembly’s R-AGE youth activities, and the Chinese ministries’ outreach to seniors in the community.

We want to thank God for His favour and the privilege of serving the community alongside the church in a missional way. We rejoice in anticipation of the wonderful work God has started and will continue to do in the lives of the youths and the community.

New Kid on The BlockREACH Counselling Centre in Shunfu goes fully operational!

In March, we announced to the community in Shunfu, REACH Counselling is fully operational. The official opening of the new REACH Counselling Centre at Blk 307 Shunfu Road will be on 11 April 2015. We would like to extend our invitation to all Gracians for this joyous event.

Official Opening of Reach Counselling Centre @Shunfu11 April 2015, 9.00am to 1.00pmBlk 307 Shunfu Road Singapore 570307Guest of Honour: Mr Hri Kumar, MP of Bishan-Toa Payoh GRCRSVP: rc@reach.org.sg or 6801 0730

CLAIMING THE LAND FOR CHRISTBY HO SIEW CHEONG, CHIEF EXECUTIVE (RCSS)

POSITIONS AVAILABLE AT REACH“Don’t you have a saying, ‘It’s still four months until harvest’? I tell you, open your eyes and look at the fields! They are ripe for harvest.” John 4:35

REACH Community Services Society (RCSS), a local mission arm of GRACE with a mission of sharing God’s love and bringing hope to the community.

For the past 16 years, RCSS has been reaching out to the low income families, distressed couples, at-risk children & youths and the lonely elderly through our many community programmes.

By the grace of God and your support, we have grown to 4 centres:-• REACH Family Service Centre• REACH Counselling Centre• REACH Youth Powerhouse• REACH Senior Centre

Join us in this time of harvesting at the fields!

1. Senior Social WorkerTo oversee the implementation of Code of Social Work Practice (CSWP), build capability for therapeutic group work, adoption of Social Service Net (SSNet) and provide supervision for a group of staff.

2. Social Worker / Social Worker Associate To handle casework and counselling, assist in the development and operationalisation of group work and community work.

Job Requirements:• Possess at least a Diploma in Social Service or degree in Social

Work• With at least 1 year of relevant experience • Conversant in English and 2nd language in either Mandarin,

Malay or Tamil • Dynamic, self-motivated and with passion to help• For Senior position, the incumbent must have at least 5 years

of relevant experience and clinical supervision

Send in your resume to recruitment@reach.org.sg

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APRIL 2015

REACH

A CALL TO MISSIONS BY JASMIN LOW

“Missionary – someone who leaves their family for a short time, so that others may be with their families forever.”

Deuteronomy 15:11 stands true, “There will always be poor people in the land …” Be it physically or spiritually poor people, anyone is bankrupt without Jesus Christ. There are needs everywhere, and God has commissioned us to reach out to the lost and poor. But where shall we start? They are everywhere! In the villages and the cities; in the land of every nation! Does being a missionary means having to literally get my feet to the ends of the earth? Maybe and maybe not. Whether the former or the latter is true for you, it is our obligation to participate in the cause of missions and fulfil the Great Commission.

That very moment when we decide in our hearts to declare, “Jesus, you are my Lord and my God.” I guess, along with the title of a ‘Christian’, we cannot do without the title of a ‘missionary’. What?! A missionary?! I’ve got a job to do! And I find my deepest satisfaction in Jesus, witnessing in the marketplace anyway! Yes, that’s great! The marketplace is where the lost and poor are as well. A missionary does not strictly mean you have to be ‘someone who leaves your family for a short time, so that others may be with their families forever’. But a missionary could be someone who ‘gives, so that others may be with their families forever’. Hence, you can be the goer or the sender. You are a missionary for God’s glory! So praise God for the senders, those who support financially and prayerfully to the cause of missions and those who train and equip the goers. And praise God for the goers, those who actually devote their lives fully to be, what we all know, as a traditional missionary. So who have been the goers?

In March 2015, Grace Missions sent out teams of preachers and teachers to East Asia, Pakistan, Tanjung Pinang, Karimun and Myanmar! On top of that, the senders of the church gathered during World Prayer to pray for Bangladesh! So let us, as a Missional Family Church, carry out our roles as senders and goers, adding unto the edification and building up of the church, for God’s glory!

PERFECT IN MY WEAKNESS BY GRACE LEE, YAYP

In February, I went to East Asia for a missions trip. Before the trip, I struggled to believe that God could use me to do His work. Despite hearing testimonies about how God used others, I was envious and wondered if it could even happen to me. Amidst the preparations, I was also busy preparing for another event, which took place two days before the trip. I felt unprepared for the lesson that I was going to share with the locals as everything felt so rushed. I also felt inadequate as I was the youngest in the team and I doubted my capabilities as I thought that the people there would be more knowledgeable than I am, and being older, they would have experienced more in life. I felt unqualified to teach them the word of God. Language constraint was another challenge for me as I felt I wasn’t able to converse well in Mandarin.

As I was praying to prepare my heart for the trip, I felt peace from God and I was once again reminded that His power is made perfect in my weakness. Even though I felt inadequate, I went in faith. During the trip, God touched my heart and on the first two days, my tears just kept flowing when I was serving together with the locals during worship and when I was praying for them. I knew that the Lord was there with us.

Throughout the trip, I continued preparing for my lesson, I thank God for an amazing team who gave me advice along the way. On the day itself, I was able to share with minimal reference to my notes, which allowed me to have more eye contact with the people and I knew that it was definitely the Holy Spirit working through me. I experienced a breakthrough as I always had the fear of forgetting what I wanted to say, so I’ll refer to my notes all the time. This time the Holy Spirit was with me and He gave me the words to speak.

Through this experience, I truly believe that God can use anyone to do His work. We just have to have faith and believe that He can use us. The Lord has cleared my struggles and to God be the glory.

08

APRIL 2015

GRACE MISSIONS

JOURNEY TO WEST KALIMANTAN BY FOO HUI SHI

It is Brother Cynric Wee’s third time to West Kalimantan, Indonesia. This was his first time, however, where he got to witness the construction of new churches in the villages. “It was exciting because I am witnessing a prophetic act of faith that we are claiming the village for Jesus”. Rev. Peck Yin, who was on the trip together with Cynric, even had the opportunity to pave the foundation, laying the first stones for the new church building located at a site about 3-hours drive from Sanggau. It was a great honour for Rev. Peck Yin to bless the site and a thoroughly humbling experience for the trippers.

Not fond of travelling on the road for hours, God has led Cynric to leave the comforts of his home as God has placed in his heart a burden for the Indonesians. It was undoubtedly a worthwhile journey for him and he finds it a blessing and honour to be able to serve God despite the long travelling hours. He strongly believes that the gospel will be widely shared and many will come to personally know Jesus. With missions-minded companions being unceasing in prayers, he believes that the missions team can do all things through Christ who strengthens them.

Cynric met up with the church planters in West Kalimantan to find out how they were doing and supported them in their works and walk with God. The Indonesians have limited resources to gain biblical knowledge, hence they greatly appreciated the trippers who shared the Word with them and taught them the ways of the Lord. Their hunger and thirst for Christ makes interaction with them greatly enjoyable and encouraging for Cynric. Even though Indonesia is a predominantly Muslim country, the people of West Kalimantan are receptive to Christianity. Cynric notes that an area of need for West Kalimantan would be to quickly establish Christianity and spread the gospel. He finds an urgent need to bring teachers and preachers to serve in the villages of West Kalimantan and also monetary resources to extend their outreach work.

Our God is faithful and He is a God who provides. Even as His children and servants, let us continue to obey His leading to support the cause of missions, all for His glory.

UPCOMING MISSIONS TRIPSPlease pray with the missions trippers for God’s protection to rest on them, and that they would be sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s leading:

22 March – 8 April East Asia Ps Walter Lim

24 April – 2 May Cambodia Peter Lim

24 April Batam, Indonesia Jenny Chow

MISSIONS CONFERENCE IN NEPAL!Grace Missions would be running a conference in Nepal for our missions partners in South Asia on 13 – 17 April 2015. Please keep Grace Missions in prayer as we look forward to a time of renewal and of breaking new grounds for our missions work.

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GRACE MISSIONS

I was having lunch with a brother-in-Christ a while ago. We were discussing about how we relate to our children and how we wish

our children would relate to us.

As he was sharing, I thought of my dealings with my own children. I realised that sometimes I can fall into the trap of not listening well. I fall into the trap of stereotyping their problems and providing the solutions that they may not need at all. Thus I forget about their emotions and experiences that they have gone through or about to go through may be different from my time. Once in a while (I hope), before they can even finish speaking, I have already prepared a slew of solutions (typical efficient Singaporean).

Efficient? Effective?

I am not sure. But failing to allow to connect with their emotions is certain.

The children are living in a new environment, bombarded by social media like Facebook, Watsapp, Twitter, Instagram etc. It’s a totally different environment from my time. The challenges that the children have to put up with, are definitely more compared to mine. Thus if I do not connect with them and I try to prescribe to them my solutions based on the time I live in, I may be doomed to fail. In some instances, the relationship will start to strain. Here, I am not referring to situations when they are obviously right and wrong.

The New Wine and The Old WineskinHence, let’s perceive from all angles, seek to understand them and consider whether do they need a solution, advice, instruction or just a listening ear … Be slow (or slower) to speak and quick to listen. Sometimes, the solutions are already there, when the Holy Spirit has spoken to them or to their own common sense. Otherwise, the dated prescription will only be like old wine skin that cannot contain the new wine.

Going beyond the children, this same way of handling relationships can be practiced elsewhere, for example, with our spouses or sometimes our junior colleagues. Circumstances change. People change. Things may not be exactly be the same anymore.

So change the approach but never the intent. Connect before correct. We need more grace, wisdom and strength from God to help us.

The wine has changed. What about the wine skin?

Bro Francis Lee - Husband to Lindai Father to Asher, Gracia and Elisha

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Join us at https://www.facebook.com/groups/FamilyLifeGrace/, be a blessing and be blessed.

Pastor Ben and his team are busy running around. What are they up to?

Watch this space!

FAMILY LIFE @ GRACE

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Do you know that Family Life@Grace has a well-stocked library at GII Bukit Batok? When we return to GI Tanglin Rd, a new library will be setup. Here, brother Alex Ong shares some good readings with us. All books are available at the Family Life@Grace library.

“The more that you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” ― Dr. Seuss, I Can Read With My Eyes Shut!

Facing Your Giants by Max Lucado

The story of King David bears witness to a timeless Truth: When God shows up BIG TIME in our lives, it is often very difficult to keep quiet about it. And the chief ingredient for that to occur? Just an ordinary person whose faith in Abba Father may be as tiny as a mustard seed (Matthew 17:20, NIV) but is willing to be used by Him. In Facing Your Giants, writer Max Lucado, who is currently also Preaching Minister at Oaks Hill Church in San Antonio, Texas, retells the life of King David – from his shepherd-boy encounter with Philistine monster Goliath, through his flight from a poignantly jealous King Saul, to his tumultuous life as ruler of Israel. Lucado shows how the tapestry of David’s colourful testimony was essentially held together by a common theme/seam: enduring Faith in Almighty God in the midst of facing life’s giants, be they financial woes, a serious illness, or a habitual sin.

Strengthen Yourself in the Lord: How to Release the Hidden Power of God in Your Life by Bill Johnson

Johnson, a senior pastor of Bethel Church in Redding, California, opens with a powerful invitation: “It’s time to be strong and of great courage.” His book houses invaluable nuggets on how we can strengthen ourselves through constantly aligning our lives with God’s Divine Purpose, especially in times of dismay. Johnson provides the example of King David, who dared to confront his setbacks by strengthening himself in the Lord (1 Samuel 30:6b).

Drawing Near: A Life of Intimacy with God by John Bevere

In this book, celebrated author John Bevere challenges readers to move beyond the “dry shadow of Christianity” that merely knows about God but without knowing God. He emphasizes that our walk with Jesus is much more than worship that emanates from the need to fulfil age-old ritualistic obligations; it is a conscious decision to plunge into a deeper relationship with Him. In essence, Bevere beckons us with words of divine invitation, best expressed in the following verse: Draw near to God and He will draw near to you. (James 4:8, NIV)

Six Battles Every Man Must Win … and the Ancient Secrets You’ll Need to Succeed by Bill Perkins

Every believer of Jesus faces a spiritual battle, one that is not against flesh and blood, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the powers of this dark world and against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly realms. (Ephesians 6:12, NIV) Bill Perkin’s book is targeted at men who believe that God has created them to be spiritual warriors of the Kingdom of Light but are unsure how to fight the battle. It highlights six battles: fighting for your identity, personal holiness, your family, through pain, for your friends, and for a strong faith.

Changing for Good: Practical Steps for Breaking Your Negative Patterns by Raymond Causey

A transformation that stays. It’s something that our hearts may desire for yet are fearful of. In Changing for Good, Raymond Causey offers help to those who are ready for true and lasting change in their lives, providing direction towards the Truth – finding freedom in Christ through the power of the Holy Spirit.

FAMILY LIFE @ GRACE

GRACE FILIPINO MINISTRY (GFM) CELEBRATES COUPLES’ NIGHT21 Feb 2015 was in the “love month” when GFM’s Couples’ Night was celebrated. This event was held at Furama Riverfront with the theme “Emotionally Healthy Couple”. It aims to promote an emotionally healthy relationship among the GFM couples and aims to rekindle their love for one another. A total of 18 couples came attended and enjoyed the night, together with three visiting pairs of husbands and wives.

In addition, the event was anchored by the active and gifted GFM Youth who sang the couple’s theme accompanied by flute and keyboard. Emotions began to rise as the couples hear their theme songs. Not only they were entertained with music, but with games that test the couples’ agility and synergy.

Further, each couple were asked to bring a prop that would describe their theme as husband and wife. Most couples chose the theme that explains their differences. In the end they have discovered that these differences complemented each other’s strengths and weaknesses. It even made them closer to God and to one another.

Ps Walter Lim, as guest speaker, expounded the biblical message on “Intimacy in Marriage” with Genesis 2:24 and explained it in three words - Knowing, Going and Becoming who you are as a couple. He also talked about managing emotions. He said that emotions although manageable, could not be changed overnight. However, if one could manage emotion, it becomes the beginning of change. Thus, the end product of that change is a successful marriage.

The event was concluded with an awarding ceremony. Winners such as couple of the night, the best dressed, and the best props awards were announced to receive their prizes. The participating couples went away with smiles and with rekindled relationships, bringing home the good message shared and simple gifts which will make them remember this special night.

COMBINED CHINESE NEW YEAR CELEBRATIONS BY PS EMILY TEO

It has been a tradition in Grace Assembly for members from the various congregations to come together and celebrate the first day of the Lunar New Year in Worship in the church. Our Senior Pastor, Rev Calvin Lee, reiterated that this is a wonderful tradition to keep as it continues to provide a platform for members from different services and families to come together for worship and fellowship.

Compared to past years, this year witnessed an exceptional attendance of 670 people at GII Sanctuary on 19 February 2015, including many friends and relatives for the first time. Seeing the warmth and collaboration from members of the different services ministering together was also a wonderful experience. There was a beautiful festive ambience throughout the service. A sea of red from the display of drumming and dance team kicked off the festive celebration, followed by praise and worship, a special item from the Prison Ministry, a short skit and finally a word of exaltation from our Senior Pastor. Angels and heaven joined in the celebration when two souls were added to the Book of Life at the closing of the service.

The traditional Lunar Celebration is not only an opportunity for Gracians to come together to celebrate their culture but also for us to remember our Mission as a church, seizing the opportunity to share the gospel with our loved ones and for more people to know Jesus, which is our ultimate celebration for our lives and new beginning in HIM!

GRACE EVENTS12

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CHRIST’S AMBASSADORS FELLOWSHIP (CAF) UPDATE BY MICHAEL TAN

This year, the CAF looks forward to organising more missional activities that will give our friends and close ones more opportunities to know more about God.

In April, we are excited about our special CAF meeting where we will have a delightful evening enjoying the songs of the Carpenters. Local talents have been invited to perform specially for us and our Senior Pastor, Rev Calvin Lee will share a special message about the ‘Carpenter’. If you are a fan of the Carpenters and have friends that are also fans, please invite them to join us. It will start at 7.30 pm on 25 April at L4 Chapel. Admissions is free, no tickets needed.

In February, we had Rev Oh Beng Khee as the speaker for the month. Pastor Oh, as many of us prefer to address him as, spoke about what it meant to have God hold our hands. He peppered his message with lots of stories from his family and his experiences. It is always an enjoyable treat to have our former senior pastor share with us God’s Word. As the meeting was held during the Chinese New Year period, we celebrated with a special dinner. The CAF’s Food and Beverage team prepared a unique prosperity treasure pot dinner that left everyone craving for more.

In the coming months, we have invited a number of Assembly of God (AG) pastors to speak at our meetings. Each of them has a unique and dynamic ministry. We can be sure that God will use them to impact and transform our lives. Also in the pipeline are a durian party and our unique open-air lantern festival celebrations. More details on these events later. We hope you can join us for our fellowship at GII, 7.30 pm, every last Saturday of the month. Dinner is provided before the service starts.

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MINISTRIES

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CHURCHWIDE

EXECUTIVE CHURCH BOARD (ECB) 2015-2016

Honorary Secretary 2015-2016Sis Lee Lai Mun

Honorary Treasurer 2015-2016 & 2016-2017Sis Goh Lay Fong

CHURCH BOARD MEMBERS 2015-2016

Bro Ho Siew Cheong Bro Kenneth Kwan Bro Johnny Lim Bro Thomas Owyong Bro Steve Tan

CHURCH BOARD MEMBERS 2015-2016 & 2016-2017

Bro Simon Bay Bro Steven Chan Bro Li Lit Siew Bro Peter Lim Bro Vincent Tan

CO-OPTED MEMBERS 2015-2016

Bro Adekunle Adeyeye Sis Debbie Chow

GRACE SERVICES GRACE I

MY SAVIOUR’S CHURCH: 2 Prince Charles Crescent, Singapore 159011 | Tel: 6474 2823 | www.mysaviours.org

SERVICES: Saturday 5 pmYOUNG ADULTS & YOUNG PROFESSIONALS (YAYP) SERVICE JEHOVAH’S SANCTUARY LEVEL 2CANTONESE SERVICE SAVIOUR’S SANCTUARY LEVEL 3GRACE KIDS – CHILDREN’S CHURCH SHELTER ROOM LEVEL 2GRACE KIDS – PRE-SCHOOL PARADISE ROOM LEVEL 2

FURAMA RIVERFRONT HOTEL: 405 Havelock Rd, Singapore 169633 | Tel: 6333 8898 | www.furama.com/riverfront

SERVICES: Sunday 9 amENGLISH SERVICE 2 VENUS I, II, III LEVEL 3MANDARIN SERVICE MERCURY II, III LEVEL 5GRACE KIDS – CHILDREN’S CHURCH JUPITER I, II; MARS II LEVEL 3; 5GRACE KIDS – PRE-SCHOOL JUPITER III LEVEL 3

Sunday 11.15 amENGLISH SERVICE 3 VENUS I, II, III LEVEL 3FILIPINO SERVICE MERCURY I LEVEL 5YOUTH SERVICE MERCURY II, III LEVEL 5GRACE KIDS – CHILDREN’S CHURCH JUPITER I, II; MARS II LEVEL 3; 5GRACE KIDS – PRE-SCHOOL JUPITER III LEVEL 3

GRACE II:

1 Bukit Batok West Ave 4 Singapore 659125

SERVICES: Saturday 2 pmYOUTH SERVICE CHAPEL LEVEL 4

SERVICES: Sunday 9 amENGLISH SERVICE 4 CHAPEL LEVEL 4 MANDARIN SERVICE SANCTUARY LEVEL 2

SERVICES: Sunday 11.15 amENGLISH SERVICE 5 SANCTUARY LEVEL 2 HOKKIEN SERVICE CHAPEL LEVEL 4

SERVICES: Sunday 1.30 pm FILIPINO SERVICE CHAPEL LEVEL 4

SUNDAY 9 am & 11.15 amGRACE KIDSPRE-SCHOOL GOODNESS & KINDNESS LEVEL 4 CHILDREN’S CHURCH LOVE LEVEL 2

Grace Assembly of God 1 Bukit Batok West Avenue 4 Singapore 659125 Tel: (65) 6410 0800 Fax: (65) 6410 0801

Office hours: 9am-6pm (GII, mon-fri), 8.30am-1.30pm (GII, sun), 3-7pm (MSC, sat), 8am-1.30pm (Furama, sun) Website: www.graceaog.org Facebook: www.facebook.com/graceaogsingapore

J333 Every Wednesday, 7.30 pm, GLORY SANCTUARY, LEVEL 3

ST JOHN’S ST MARGARET’S CHURCH: 30 Dover Avenue, Singapore 139790 | Tel: 67770934 | www.sjsm.org.sg Note: Services are subject to changes, please refer to www.graceaog.org for latest info and updates

Got Testimonies, Ideas, Suggestions?If you would like to give testimonies, or provide feedback/ideas/suggestions/comments about Grace Bulletin, please email to: comms@graceaog.org

SERVICES @ GRACE ASSEMBLY15

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ABOUT THE CONFERENCE“Now Is The Time” is an event that seeks to open up the prophetic portal over our nation to prepare us for the great end-time harvest.

Scripture tells us we are “citizens with the saints and members of the household of God, having been built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief cornerstone” (Ephesians 2:19-20).

To prepare for the end-time harvest, it is essential that the Church is built on the foundations of both the apostles and the prophets.

This conference aims to explain and clarify the role of the prophets and the prophetic gifting in the end-time harvest and impart to all the prophetic mantle as in Joel 2 and Acts 2 “…I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your young men shall see visions, your old men shall dream dreams.” Acts 2:17 so that both Jews and gentiles will come to know the Lord Jesus Christ and welcome Him back in His glory.

The key organizer of Asia Christian Conference is Worldwide House of Transformation Pte Ltd and the host for the 2015 conference, ‘Now Is The Time’, is Grace Assembly of God.

KEYNOTE SPEAKERSRick Joyner

Shortly after becoming a Christian in 1972, Rick Joyner began having “prophetic experiences” that he felt compelled to share with others. These visions have had a tremendous spiritual impact on thousands of people, and now many within contemporary renewal and revival movements consider him a modern-day prophet.

Rick is Founder and Executive Director of MorningStar Ministries and Heritage International Ministries and is the Senior Pastor at MorningStar Fellowship Church. Rick is President of The Oak Initiative, an interdenominational movement that mobilizes Christians to engage in the great issues of our time. He has authored more than forty books, including The Final Quest Trilogy, There Were Two Trees in the Garden, and A New America.

Dr Lance Wallnau

Dr Lance Wallnau is a dynamic teacher with a unique and powerful gift for imparting the Word of God. His anointed messages are remembered years afterwards because he captivates his audiences by humor, illustrations, drawings, and fresh vocabulary which penetrates deep into the heart with incredible authority, clarity, and personal application. Such high intensity in the Holy Spirit, accompanied by his pointed, colorful delivery, and use of diagrams and instruments enable him to impact his audiences and clients worldwide. His teaching is an unforgettable experience.

Lance currently directs the Lance Learning Group, a strategic teaching and consulting company based in Dallas, Texas with affiliate offices opening up in Europe and the Philippines. Lance received his Doctorate in Ministry with a specialisation in Marketplace

from Phoenix University of Theology, and his M.A. from South Western Theological Seminary where he also taught as an adjunct professor. Lance serves actively on the Board of Directors for several progressive organisations.

* Early bird price is valid till 31 March 2015. Door price applies after 31 March 2015. Registration: Register online at www.asiachristianconference.com

EVENT SCHEDULEDates: 28-30 April 2015 (Tueday-Thursday) Seminars: GII Sanctuary, 1pm - 10pm Workshops: 30 Apr, GII Sanctuary & Chapel, 10am - 10pm