BPCIS Update
Written by Ps David Wong, General Secretary, BPCIS
10TH ANNIVERSARY. In October, it will be 10 years since the Presbytery was inaugurated with four Bible-Presbyterian churches. Today, that number has doubled to eight, with BPCIS (Bible-Presbyterian Church in Singapore) officially registered in 2018. A 10th anniversary leaflet is being prepared in e-copy and will be available on BPCIS website.
WEBSITE. Launched on Good Friday this year, it has run several life stories, the latest being “A Pastor in Every Generation” following the ordination of Rev Vernon Quek. A recent report shows 272 visitors and 546 pages viewed. Feel free to visit us at bpcis.org.sg.
PASTORS & LEADERS RETREAT. Thankfully, with COVID restrictions eased, we held an in-person Retreat in July for 48 participants at Mount Carmel BPC. Coffee breaks and lunch took place when we left 2 by 2 to nearby eating places. Dr Robert Solomon spoke on the spirituality of sharing resources, pointing us to the Trinity as a model of love among Father, Son and Holy Spirit. One participant commented, “Few speakers can draw out the Scripture with such historical, contextual and cultural insights. Dr Solomon was able to relate the beauty of sharing resources to our Triune God for which we celebrate and give thanks.”
“MINGLE” INITIATIVE. A platform for singles from 25 years upwards to meet and mingle was recently launched, attracting 68 sign-ups (32% male, 68% female). Two events had been held with one more to complete present cycle. If interested, you can check it out on BPCIS website.
NO-FAULT DIVORCE. We commissioned BGST (Biblical Graduate School of Theology) to study the issue from the theological, legal and pastoral angles. We are looking at the first draft and hope to share our findings soon. The No-Fault Divorce is being proposed by the government to lessen the negative impact of divorce on the couple and their children. It erases the current distinction between an offending part and the offended party.
ANNUAL PRESBYTERY MEETING. On Saturday, 25 Sep, BP pastors and elders will meet to hear reports, approve budget and elect new office-bearers for the next 2-year term. Others will join for the second part when guest speaker, Rev Keith Lai, former moderator of the Presbyterian Church will address us on the church scene in Singapore amidst the on-going pandemic.
TRIBUTE. Finally, we give thanks to God for the life of Elder Quek Swee Peng of Zion Serangoon BPC who went home to the Lord on 20 August. He hosted the first consultations of BP pastors and elders at Tanglin Club in 2010 which led to the formation of the Presbytery. He supported the birth and growth BPCIS with his encouragement and prayers.
