Mutual Enhancement for the Lord
The 41st Session of SCAC Ordination Service started on the evening of 23 November 2016 at Masland Church Sibu. Ten pastors were ordained, eight Elders, one Deacon and one Local Deacon.
The eight Elders are Rev Tie Hieng Sing, Timothy Toh Fuh Yun, Ling Yien, Eric Hii Wen Haur, Jabez Tiong Huong Ong, Wong Chu Yin, Ting Chai Eng and Candy Liong. James Lau Puong Bin was ordained as Deacon and Pau See See Local Deacon.
Rev Dr Su Chii Ann was the speaker of the night. His topic was “Mutual Enhancement for the Lord”. Rev Su stressed that ordination is not a promotion or compensation or a precondition but a legacy whereby pastors re-dedicate themselves as a commitment to the Lord. It is also a special covenant and affirmation from the church. Thus it is a grand occasion for the family (congregation), the pastoral community and the pastor himself or herself.
As for the ordained pastor, he or she needs to do his or her best in ministry (Acts 18:24-28) just as Apollos did, who used his eloquence, knowledge and enthusiasm in explaining the Bible to publicly prove that Jesus is Christ.
As for the congregation, they need to nurture their ordained pastor (Acts 18:18-19, 26a) just as Priscilla and Aquila did through working closely with the pastor, Paul and helping Apollos to know more about the words of God. Apollos was better equipped and encouraged.
Lastly, all pastors should work hand in hand with the newly ordained pastors to shepherd the sheep (Acts 19:1-7), just as Paul did, who strengthened his fellow workers and baptized them in the name of Jesus, so that they could receive the Holy Spirit and the gifts of service.
In conclusion, ordained pastors, the congregation and the pastors’ community should assist each other along the path of faith for the sake of Jesus Christ.