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Youth Fellowship

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In September 1946, at the initiative of Rev. 叶恩汉, then serving at the church, members of the choir met to prepare for the formation of the fellowship. It continued the work of the pre-war youth organisation, 务德会, which had already served the church for 30 years. Rev. 叶 selected 10 October as its founding day. The fellowship began with just over 20 members. Mr 洪清江 was its first president, Mr 林路 its secretary, and several others served on the committee. The following year, Mr 洪清江 stepped down because of work commitments, and Mr 叶恩潭 was elected the second president. As the church’s many gatherings made it difficult to share the premises, the fellowship moved to a new meeting place at No. 8 鲁雁律. Six months later, Mr 叶恩潭 moved to Singapore, and Rev. 叶恩汉 became acting president. In February 1948, Rev. 方明德 arrived as the church’s pastor-in-charge and was invited to advise the fellowship. Rev. 叶恩汉 was then appointed to lead the Medan district, and Mr 宋万庆 was elected president. That autumn, because the new location was difficult to reach, fellowship meetings returned to the church. In 1950, Mr 陈中书 and other representatives attended the first Chinese-language Methodist Youth Fellowship summer camp in Ipoh. It was a well-attended gathering, at which plans were made for a national Methodist Youth Fellowship organisation in Malaysia and a constitution was drafted. The fellowship subsequently followed the constitution issued by the national body, bringing greater order and renewed vitality to its work. Mr 宋万庆 served as president for three consecutive years. Mr 陈中书 became president in 1951, followed by Mr 李昌明, who served from 1952 to 1954. At the end of 1952, Rev. 方明德 left Penang for a pastoral appointment in Singapore. He and his wife were devoted to youth ministry, and the fellowship flourished under their guidance. That year, it published a sixth-anniversary commemorative volume, with Mr 骆仁敏 as chief editor and Mr 洪辉德 as deputy editor. Beautifully printed and rich in content, it was a substantial record of the fellowship’s work. In 1953, Rev. 蔡约翰 became the church’s pastor-in-charge and the fellowship’s adviser. Mr 郭赳赳 became president in 1955. Mr 李昌明 returned to the presidency in 1956 and served for four consecutive years. For much of this period, Mr 洪辉德 served alongside him as vice-president, bringing humility and considerable leadership ability. In August 1955, the Annual Conference appointed the promising young Rev. 许彼得 as the church’s associate pastor and to lead the Ayer Itam preaching point. His energy, diligence and planning greatly advanced the fellowship’s work. In 1957, Rev. 洪瑞云 became associate pastor and leader of the 日落 preaching point. He cared deeply for young people and made a significant contribution to the fellowship. In 1960, Mr 张东发 became president and served for three consecutive years. A gifted leader, he brought renewed energy to the fellowship. In 1961, it undertook the ambitious task of publishing a substantial 15th-anniversary commemorative volume, edited by Mr 杨昭铭 and recording the fruits of its first 15 years. On 10 August 1961, at the invitation of the Annual Conference, the fellowship organised a well-received “Youth Night” variety programme. Rev. 殷文宗 became the church’s pastor-in-charge in 1962. In 1963, Mr 杨昭铭 was elected president with the support and affection of the members, serving until 1964. With the cooperation of the committee and members, and Rev. 殷’s patient guidance, the fellowship’s plans and activities proceeded smoothly. From 29 December 1963 to 4 January 1964, the fellowship joined the youth fellowships of the Cantonese 救恩堂 and Ayer Itam church to organise a short-term volunteer training school for the Penang, Province Wellesley and Kedah district. It was held at the Methodist boys’ school at 拜吉 in Penang. Rev. 殷文宗 and Rev. 陈碧玉 served as principal and deputy principal, Rev. 许彼得 as dean of studies, and fellowship president Mr 杨昭铭 as chief coordinator. The teaching and administrative team worked diligently, with encouraging results. At the opening ceremony, the principal presented certificates that Rev. 殷 had personally designed and inscribed. In 1964, the fellowship also marked its 18th anniversary with a finely produced commemorative volume edited by Mr 朱振兴. Mr 谢雅各 became president in 1965. In 1966, Mr 朱振兴 was elected from vice-president to president but declined the position. At the fourth regular committee meeting on 1 March, Mr 宋建发 was nominated and accepted responsibility at a time of uncertainty, earning the fellowship’s admiration. The committee unanimously appointed Mr 杨昭铭 as adviser with voting rights. Through their united efforts, the work proceeded steadily, and members gave thanks for the Lord’s grace. Mr 宋建发 continued as president in 1967. In 1968, Miss 陈雪兰 was elected president with widespread support, becoming the first woman to hold the office in the fellowship’s history. Her determination, capable leadership and willingness to improve its work brought fresh vitality, supported by the guidance of the American missionary Miss 高丽丝. Adviser Mr 朱振兴 also contributed greatly to the fellowship newsletter, making it both substantial and beautifully produced. Mr 黄春福 became president in 1969 and actively developed the work of the fellowship’s five groups. When he obtained a postal-service position requiring him to move immediately to Kajang, Selangor, he resigned on 9 August. Members rejoiced at his new opportunity while regretting the departure of a devoted president. Vice-president Miss 陈雪兰 took over until the election of the new committee at year’s end. That year, the fellowship held a fellowship meal to mark the first anniversary of the autonomous Methodist Church, directing the proceeds to the fund for the autonomous Methodist Church in Malaysia and Singapore. In 1970, Mr 黄良鸿 became president. Although young, he served the church and fellowship tirelessly and with dedication, remaining president for four consecutive years. That year, the fellowship again joined the Women’s Society in organising a fellowship meal for the second anniversary of the autonomous Methodist Church, raising a considerable sum. At the end of June 1970, Rev. 殷文宗, who had cared deeply for the fellowship, died suddenly and went to be with the Lord. His loss brought profound sorrow. In the turmoil that followed, the church experienced division, and the fellowship’s work also faced rejection and slander. It was a deeply painful time, but by the Lord’s gracious guidance the fellowship was able to continue. In 1971, the Annual Conference appointed the promising young Rev. 李前军 as pastor-in-charge. The fellowship celebrated its silver jubilee in 1971. Alongside the main celebrations, it published a silver-jubilee commemorative volume, edited by Mr 黄良鸿, bringing together records of the anniversary events and earlier fellowship history. In September 1973, president Mr 黄良鸿 began studies at Trinity Theological College in Singapore. Vice-president Mr 李华清 had left earlier to study in the United Kingdom. With both leaders overseas, Rev. 李前军 appointed Mr 吴端耀 as president in early October. Mr 吴端耀 continued as president in 1974. To support the church’s extension of its side hall and parsonage, the fellowship organised a sponsored walk. With the support of its advisers, committee, members and other devoted church members, it raised more than RM2,000. That year, the fellowship also won the first Bible knowledge competition organised by the Penang Bible Society. Past Presidents 洪清江 1946 叶恩潭 1947 宋万庆 1948-1950 陈中书 1951 李昌明 1952–1954, 

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Young Adults’ Fellowship

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The Young Adults’ Fellowship began on 6 January 2007. Previously, many young people participated less often in fellowship after entering working life. Their interests, perspectives and social circles had become different from those of students, while a considerable age gap separated them from members of the Adults’ Fellowship. The church established the Young Adults’ Fellowship to welcome them back into the life of God’s family. Activities included Bible study, sharing, Christian films and outdoor activities, with occasional joint meetings alongside the Adults’ or Youth Fellowships. At its founding, the fellowship had fewer than ten participants. Through the encouragement of its president and members, regular weekly attendance reached twelve. In 2015, under its new president, Brother 杨金龙, the fellowship adopted a theme drawn from Hebrews 10:24: “Let’s consider how to provoke one another to love and good works” (WEBBE). 2017-2018 The Young Adults’ Fellowship adopted “Love on Time” (Hebrews 10:24) as its theme and set goals for the following two years. Average attendance was twelve to fifteen. Meetings centred on Bible study (FBS), led by group leader Brother 杨金龙. A joint Bible study with the Youth Fellowship was also arranged once a month, led by the Rev. 谭鸣辉. In 2017, the fellowship held its first young adults’ retreat at the Methodist Church on Pulau Pangkor. About forty people attended, including members of the Youth Fellowship. Its second retreat took place in Kuala Sepetang, Taiping, in 2018. Around thirty attended that year, all young adults’ fellowship members and their families. Alongside weekly Bible study and small-group study, members took part in outdoor activities. During these years, they joined in ball games, Christmas carolling, home gatherings, visits and other activities. 2019-2020 We thank the Lord for his guidance and for his sufficient grace throughout the new fellowship term. During these two years, the fellowship’s theme was “Salt and Light”, based on Matthew 5:13–16. Membership remained at ten to twelve brothers and sisters. The programme continued much as before. In July and August 2019, the Young Adults’ and Adults’ Fellowships jointly invited District Superintendent the Rev. 陈志浩 to speak on “The Heart of a Worshipper”. The fellowship sought to raise up new workers for the church’s ministry teams and encourage wider participation in service. It also encouraged members to bear witness to the Lord in their workplaces and to deepen their relationships with one another and with God, united in Christ and blessing one another. In March 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted fellowship activities. In-person meetings were suspended and later moved online through Zoom. That year, as part of the church’s ministry reorganisation, the Young Adults’ and Adults’ Fellowships became part of the small-group ministry. The continuing worldwide pandemic was a factor in this transition. We thank God that, from the fellowship’s beginning in 2007 to its transition in 2020, the Lord watched over every member throughout these fourteen years and enabled them to experience his grace. Despite disagreements, weakness, sorrow and disappointment, members continued to serve in God’s house. We believe that God provides for us, protects us, cares for us and blesses us abundantly. Young Adults’ Fellowship Group Photograph, 2015 Past Fellowship Presidents 2007 – 2020 2007–2008: Brother 刘俊勤 2009–2010: Brother 李俊学 2011–2014: Sister 黄婉冰 2015–2016: 

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Men’s and Senior Fellowship, 2009–2024

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To meet the needs of the congregation, Rev. 黄 established the church's Men's and Senior Fellowships in early 2009. Church officer 吴永远 was appointed president of the Men's Fellowship, and Church officer 宋凤莲 president of the Senior Fellowship. At that time, each fellowship had approximately 20 members. The month after its establishment, the Men's Fellowship organised a day trip with Methodist Women and the choir. It also invited representatives from non-governmental Christian organisations to share at subsequent meetings. In March, the Men's Fellowship held its first medical talk to improve members' health knowledge. In April, its president invited Dr 卓志耀 and Ms 黄婷风 from Penang Adventist Hospital to speak about rheumatic conditions and physiotherapy. Sister 陈瑞娟 spoke about diabetes in May. In December, the Senior and Men's Fellowships visited a home for the elderly and infirm at Green Lane. A gospel film was screened at the joint gathering in January 2010. Early that year, the fellowship joined Methodist Women and the Adult Fellowship in visiting 恩惠爱老院, providing dinner and gifts. Church officer 刘芬芬 prepared several dishes for everyone to share, and Sister 李文爱 helped trim the residents' hair. In February, the Senior, Women's, Men's and Adult Fellowships held a joint talk on the art of tea. In March, members visited the Cameron Highlands and stayed at the Methodist building. That month, Dr 吴学勤, a specialist from Island Hospital, gave a medical talk entitled “I Want to Be Healthy”. The Men's Fellowship also encouraged participation in badminton and table tennis competitions, inviting its patron, Dato' 杨清辉, to present prizes. May brought a lunch discussion at 仙景楼 and a talk on arthritis by an Island Hospital specialist. Four lunchtime testimony gatherings were held between June and September. In March and April 2011, the fellowship held two lunchtime gatherings, with Rev. 林金海 and Brother 李廷奇 as speakers. A dinner gathering in April included a medical talk on stroke prevention. The Annual Conference seniors' camp was held in Sitiawan in July. In August, the fellowship held a fellowship meal with the Adult Fellowship and invited three gospel ship crew members to share their testimonies. In September, our church's fellowship organised a six-day, five-night trip to Hong Kong and Shenzhen. In February 2012, the fellowship invited Dr 刘进顺 to speak about menopause, followed by dinner together. Members took a day trip to Langkawi in May. Sister 陈瑞娟 spoke on healthy eating in September. Two speakers were invited in November: Dr Kelvin Tan from Mount Miriam Hospital on breast cancer, and Dr 郑永成 on issues affecting older people. In January 2013, the Men's Fellowship joined the Senior Fellowship, Methodist Women and the Adult Fellowship for dinner and a talk entitled “When Traditional Chinese Medicine Meets Theology”. The Senior Fellowship held a lunchtime gathering at Penang's 龙城 Hotel in March. Dr 郑永成 returned to speak on health matters in June. In July, members attended a seniors' camp in Ipoh, and our church's 李国庆 Cup badminton tournament began. Over the next two months, Ms 蔡丽春 taught patting and stretching exercises, and Mr 杨福才 spoke on “Worrying Trends in Health”. Dr 黄依慰 shared a testimony at the joint gathering in January 2014, followed by Dr 洪丽卿 in February. In March, Brother 谭伟良 spoke about green buildings and environmental protection. Brother 骆胜坚 introduced basic health concepts in April. The district seniors' retreat was held at Flamingo Hotel by the Beach in Tanjung Bungah in May, with Dr 王锦保, an orthopaedic specialist from Gleneagles Hospital Penang, speaking on the prevention and treatment of bone spurs. At the joint fellowship gathering in October, physician 孙忠实 spoke about managing cancer risk. In May 2015, the fellowship joined the Adult Fellowship and Methodist Women for a day trip to Penang Hill. That month, Officer 邱学新 conducted training at our church, and members attended the dinner marking the 50th anniversary of Mr and Mrs 曾国生. In June, members hosted a concert by the Petaling youth choir. Ten seniors from our church then attended the sixth seniors' camp in Melaka. Another joint day trip with the Adult Fellowship and Methodist Women took place in July, this time to Taiping. Members also supported Dr 黄雯雯's musical evangelistic meeting. In September, the fellowship shared a meal and fellowship with the seniors from 美安堂 Methodist Church in the Miri District of Sarawak. 2015Senior Fellowship Activities for the Year In January 2016, the president attended an Annual Conference Senior Fellowship meeting in Kuala Lumpur. Medical talks were held in January and April, with Dato' Dr 余添山 and Dr 郑永成 as speakers. Members also formed visitation teams. In July, the fellowship attended Dr 黄雯雯's music-sharing session. In August, members attended our Youth Fellowship's 70th anniversary thanksgiving gathering and took a three-day, two-night trip to Thailand. In December, they visited Sekinchan for three days and two nights. In 2017, our church discontinued the separate Men's Fellowship and renamed the combined Men's and Senior Fellowships as the Senior Fellowship. Church officer 吴永远 was appointed president and continued in office at the time of this account. A welcome gathering for new members was held in February. Professionals spoke about wills in March. In April, members attended a Northern District seniors' lunch at Vouk Hotel Suites, with blood tests provided by a specialist hospital and Dr Amir Shah speaking about cancer's causes, treatment and prevention. The fellowship visited 恩惠爱老院 in Paya Terubong in May. In June, ten members attended the seventh Annual Conference seniors' camp at Kinta Riverfront Hotel in Ipoh, themed “As the Years Pass, Grace Abounds”. In July, the fellowship hosted seniors from 感恩堂 in Miri, Sarawak, for singing, testimonies and dinner. Dato' Dr 余添山 also spoke that month on preventing dementia. In August, teachers from our church explained how to understand and use smartphones. In September, physiotherapist 张逸松 of TAGS Spine and Joint Specialists spoke about lower back and knee pain. On Senior Sunday, 8 October, members sang “有一恩手” and shared a thanksgiving lunch in Dorcas Hall, also celebrating the pastor's birthday. At the end of the month, they visited food and curtain factories in Lunas, followed by shopping at Design Village in Batu Kawan. In November, members took a three-day, two-night trip to the French village and Japanese Tea House at Bukit Tinggi, also staying two nights at Genting Highlands and stopping in Taiping and Ipoh on the return journey. A Christmas buffet lunch and gift distribution were held in December. In January 2018, Sister 谢理容 shared her testimony, “The Most Beautiful Blessing in This Life”. A Chinese New Year thanksgiving meal followed in February. Brother 江国强 led “Understanding and Using Smartphones, Part Two” in March. Birthdays were celebrated at the café of Penang's 龙城 Hotel in April. In May, members took a half-day trip to Desaku in Kulim, followed by dinner at 风味 Restaurant. Seventeen members attended the eighth Annual Conference seniors' camp at Morib International Resort in Banting in June. That month, Gleneagles Hospital staff also provided free health checks at our church, and Dr 郑永成 spoke on understanding stroke and heart disease. In July, members visited 恩惠爱老院 in the Pulau Betong area and 梦田 leisure farm. Birthdays were celebrated at 中华小厨 on Burmah Road in August. In September, members travelled by luxury coach to Hat Yai and Songkhla, Thailand, for three days and two nights. Brother 吴永远 shared a testimony in January 2019. Chinese New Year celebrations in February included a thanksgiving meal and reflections from Our Daily Bread. In March, young people taught seniors to use WhatsApp groups. In April, members attended a Northern District seniors' day camp, where Dr 庄瑞福 from 卢源来 Specialist Hospital spoke on common health conditions in older people, and dietitian 马丽萍 discussed nutrition and ageing. After lunch, Northern District Superintendent Rev. 王有福 and Annual Conference Senior Fellowship President Brother 黄松生 witnessed the inauguration and installation of the first Northern District Senior Fellowship. We thank the Lord that our president was elected its first president. In May, members joined the Parents' Day lunch organised by Methodist Women and took a two-day, one-night trip to Ipoh and the Cameron Highlands. They visited Design Village and IKEA in June. In July, the fellowship visited 恩惠爱老院 in Balik Pulau, singing and praising God together before Sister 崔玛利 shared a testimony. In October, members attended Rev. 黄's thanksgiving service and lunch marking 41 years of pastoral ministry. A day trip to Padang Besar followed in November. In 2020, the coronavirus pandemic spread across the world. Malaysia's government introduced the Movement Control Order to contain it, and all in-person gatherings were suspended. The fellowship moved to online meetings every two weeks, led by Rev. 谭. In January 2023, Rev. 张 gave a short address at the fellowship’s Chinese New Year thanksgiving gathering. Brother 陈凯祥 shared his testimony in February. In April, the Senior Fellowship held a joint gathering at our church with the Ayer Itam Senior Fellowship and invited St. John Ambulance Malaysia to teach cardiopulmonary resuscitation and the use of an automated external defibrillator (CPR and AED). That month, the fellowship also held a birthday celebration at 玉宫 dim sum, porridge and noodle restaurant. In May, it invited Dr Choo Jing Yi

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Adult Fellowship, 1975–2020

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By 2020, our Adult Fellowship had a 45-year history (1975–2020). According to the Chinese Annual Conference's brief history of adult ministry, this work began at Seremban Methodist Church in April 1960, but the initial effort was short-lived. The Conference began actively promoting Adult Fellowship ministry in the early 1970s, when the Seremban fellowship was dormant. On 1 September 1971, the Adult Fellowship of Kuala Lumpur Hokkien Methodist Church was formally established through the efforts of Rev. 方中南, then president of the Singapore–Malaysia Chinese Annual Conference, Rev. 陈恩成, Rev. 林荣民 and a group of devoted brothers from that church. These pastors and members subsequently travelled to churches in other states to encourage the establishment of Adult Fellowships and develop adult ministry. In early 1975, our church's church officers and a group of members who had passed the Youth Fellowship age limit of 24 responded to Rev. 卫连胜, chair of the Chinese Annual Conference Christian Education Department, and his call to establish an Adult Fellowship. A discussion was held at the parsonage on the evening of 2 April 1975. The initiators were Rev. 李前军, church worker 陈秀音, Church officer 洪辉德, 杨昭铭, 朱振兴, 黄为福 and 刘顺荣. The fellowship's inauguration and first general meeting took place in the sanctuary on the evening of 6 July 1975, when its first office-bearers were elected. The Adult Fellowship was formed to give those who had left Youth Fellowship, entered working life or established families a suitable community in which to continue growing as Christians. It sought to build close relationships in Christ's love and unity in the Lord: bearing one another's burdens (Galatians 6:2), loving one another earnestly (1 Peter 4:8), encouraging and building one another up (1 Thessalonians 5:11), and helping those in need (the historical account cites Acts 11:14, 28–30). Fellowship would continually equip believers for faithful service to Christ, offering their God-given gifts, building up the church in unity, sharing the gospel, leading people to the Lord, glorifying God and blessing others. Over the years, the fellowship has valued spiritual growth, wider knowledge and social concern. Alongside its scheduled monthly gatherings, it invited different pastors and church leaders to preach and teach, and encouraged members to attend Bible studies, discipleship courses and extension theological courses. Occasional demonstrations of floral arrangement, cooking and handicrafts helped members develop practical skills. Talks covered medicine, law, nutrition and health, further education, and banking and postal services. Social concern included visits to homes for the elderly, prayer for the sick, food sales, and donations to charities and Christian organisations. Members also supported fellow believers' education and medical expenses, individually or through the fellowship. Some quietly counselled young people facing questions about studies, work and relationships. Each Chinese New Year, the fellowship presented academic achievement awards to members' children, encouraging diligence in their studies so that they might one day offer their abilities to the church and society, bless others and glorify the Lord. It often organised church-wide gatherings for special occasions such as Parents' Day and Christmas, bringing believers together in joyful thanksgiving. In this way, the Adult Fellowship became a bridge between different parts of the church, drawing fellowship members closer to one another. The fellowship also participated in Northern District adult ministry, encouraging members to attend district gatherings, family days, anniversaries, talks and singing competitions. These activities strengthened relationships and cooperation with Adult Fellowships in other churches, making their shared service more fruitful. May every member live out the words of 1 Peter 4:10: “As each has received a gift, employ it in serving one another, as good managers of the grace of God in its various forms.” (WEBBE) Adult Fellowship provisional committee, 1975 Adult Fellowship office-bearers, 1995–1996 Adult Fellowship Activities 1975-1995 Group photograph after the Adult Fellowship's first exploratory gathering at 食风楼 in Tanjung Bungah, before its formal establishment, 1975 The Adult Fellowship's first general meeting, 6 July 1975 The president and vice-president cutting the first anniversary cake, 1976

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Methodist Intermediate Fellowship, 1952–2024

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Our Methodist Intermediate Fellowship was formally established on 14 April 1952, with strong encouragement from the wife of Rev. 方明德. As its first adviser, she guided the young people in understanding the truth and receiving training for enthusiastic service in the church. The fellowship was active and well attended. Before long, she accompanied Rev. 方明德 to his new appointment in Singapore. Mr 陈启昭 succeeded her as adviser and served for 18 years, retiring in December 1970. He contributed greatly to the Methodist Intermediate Fellowship. Under his leadership, its activities included ball games, early-morning worship, retreats and Christmas carolling. Many of those he mentored later studied abroad or became office-bearers in the Youth and Adult Fellowships, and some became church church officers. Members expressed their love for the church by making a large signboard for its kindergarten, which was still in use when this account was written. Before Christmas 1970, they also repainted the church fence silver as another act of loving service. In 1971, Ms 陈雪兰 and Mr 刘顺荣 became joint advisers. Their efforts brought some growth in membership, but both stepped down after a year because of work commitments. Although there was no adviser in 1972 or 1973, the Lord continued to guide the fellowship's work. Mr 郭赳赳 became adviser in 1974 but resigned after a year because of other commitments. Mr 罗华明 took over in 1975, reorganising the fellowship to strengthen members in biblical truth and spiritual understanding, while training them to be responsible young Christians. Past Advisers Wife of Rev. 方明德, 1952 陈启昭, 1953–1970 陈雪兰, 1971 郭赳赳, 1974 Methodist Intermediate Fellowship, 1952 Christmas carolling team, 1962 Members singing an anthem, 1973 The president cutting the celebration cake, 1973 Tea gathering, 1973 Adviser 罗华明 with office-bearers, 1975 Ms 陈珍宝 served as adviser from 1979 to 1980. A faithful servant, she attended weekly fellowship meetings to offer guidance and often shared messages. Activities gradually increased. Scripture memorisation competitions encouraged members to read God's Word, while school holidays brought seaside picnics and opportunities to distribute gospel tracts near the church. Ms 林逸云 served as adviser from 1981 to 1982, followed again by Ms 陈珍宝 from 1983 to 1990. The fellowship held its first junior training camp in 1987 to help members understand their faith more clearly and develop their abilities in leading singing and programmes. From 1989, meetings moved from 3.30 pm to 8.00 pm, and the venue changed to the 80th Anniversary Hall. From 1991, Rev. 黄 and the Methodist Intermediate Fellowship officers planned its activities together. At the Local Church Executive Committee meeting in March 1995, recognising the pastor's growing responsibilities, the church officers appointed three church officers as fellowship advisers. They were to assist the pastor in this ministry, providing the care and nurture young people needed to grow into people equipped for God's service. Advisers and office-bearers, 1995 Teen Fellowship group photograph

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Methodist Women, 1918–2024

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“The LORD is my strength and my shield. My heart has trusted in him, and I am helped. Therefore my heart greatly rejoices. With my song I will thank him.” (Psalm 28:7, WEBBE) “Don’t you be afraid, for I am with you. Don’t be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you. Yes, I will help you. Yes, I will uphold you with the right hand of my righteousness.” (Isaiah 41:10, WEBBE) We thank the Lord for his grace and guiding hand throughout the 105-year history of Madras Lane Methodist Women, as recorded in 2023. We are grateful to our advisers, pastors, church workers and pastors' wives for their loving guidance and assistance, and to our office-bearers and fellow believers for their united service, support and encouragement, which have enabled our work to proceed smoothly. We also give thanks for all that earlier generations contributed. Building on this firm foundation, Methodist Women continues to experience God, grow in faith, share the gospel, lead people to the Lord, and care actively for women and families with spiritual and practical needs. May our service glorify God and bless others. Peace to all, and glory to God! Amen. From 1916, women's groups were already serving Chinese churches in Singapore and Malaya, although their activities were confined to individual congregations. Our association was initiated by Miss 格里曼 in 1918 under the name Women's Relief Association. Its president was the wife of Rev. 邱清浩, who worked with women evangelists and several devoted sisters in Christ to provide relief. In 1923, the association was renamed the Dorcas Society, with Ms 林伶俐 as president. She also managed 体仁会, the church's home for elderly people who were poor and without support. The Dorcas Society met annually, beginning with worship led by the pastor. Donated goods and handicrafts made by church members were then sold for charitable purposes, including relief for those who were poor or ill, funeral expenses, and furniture and household items for church workers. Leading office-bearers included 洪琳华, 洪瑞要 and the wife of Rev. 黄懋庭. In 1946, Mrs 李溢恩, the bishop's wife, and Mrs 罗士越 encouraged the active organisation of women's societies within the Chinese Annual Conference in Singapore and Malaya. At the Conference held in Kuala Lumpur in March 1948, women delegates decided to unite the women of all local churches in a Women's Society of Christian Service (WSCS). Our church formally established its WSCS, with every female church member included in its membership. The initiative was championed by 李秀英, the wife of Rev. 方明德, and Dr 虞小棠 was elected president. The society required its officers to meet at least three times a year. During this period, it helped the church establish the Air Itam preaching point, the parsonage, Dorcas Hall for Christian education, and the Jelutong preaching point. Its ministry also included monthly evangelistic visits to the Sungai Ara home for the elderly and children's outreach meetings in Sungai Nibong and Perak Lane. Parents' Day, 5 May 1948 Parents' Day, 9 May 1949 Devotional Committee meeting, 26 October 1949 Parents' Day, 14 May 1950 Office-bearers, 1950 Office-bearers, 1952 Office-bearers, 1954 Ms 王美玉 served as president from 1960 to 1970. The society developed steadily and membership grew rapidly. Meetings were held weekly, with Bible studies twice a month. A women's choir was formed under the guidance of Rev. 黄银溪. The home economics group took turns teaching cooking, while Sister 郭爱华 taught floral arrangement to beautify the sanctuary. Evangelism was a priority: weekend children's meetings were held at 真光 School in Juru New Village, and literacy classes were opened at the Butterworth preaching point. Members regularly distributed gospel tracts, visited hospital patients, shared their faith with non-Christian families and helped new believers dispose of their idols. The account also records the women's choir, home economics classes, weekend children's meetings at 真光 School and literacy classes at Butterworth. Singing Malay hymns at the Annual Conference Women's Night, 8 August 1961 Dramatisation of the Book of Ruth, 8 August 1961 Choir, 23 November 1966 Office-bearers, 4 August 1968

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Emmanuel Choir, 2014–2024

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The Children's Choir began on 16 August 2014 to promote a rich tradition of sacred music, provide children in the church with a comprehensive musical education, lead them in worship and praise, and help them serve through sacred music. It also sought to reach children and families who had not yet come to faith, serve the community, and take part in evangelism and mission. In 2015, the Children's Choir was named the Emmanuel Choir. New members were admitted between the ages of eight and 16. In 2016, the choir scheduled anthems for the morning service on the second and fourth Sundays of each month. In March, Pastor 朴 returned to Korea, and Sister 李依楣 took over as accompanist. In May, Ms 李照罗 also returned to Korea, and Sister 吴路得 assumed the conducting responsibilities. By May 2018, around 30 members were attending, and the choir decided to have choir robes made. In December that year, our church's Emmanuel Choir visited 水原荣华 Church and 洪川光源 Church in Korea for fellowship and to experience life with local Christian families. In March 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic spread worldwide, Malaysia implemented a nationwide Movement Control Order. All in-person meetings and rehearsals ceased. The Emmanuel Choir resumed in-person rehearsals in July 2022. In December 2023, the Emmanuel Choir sang its final anthem of the year at Sunday worship, after which its activities were paused. In March 2024, the Emmanuel Children's Choir resumed regular rehearsals twice a month, on the first and third Saturdays from 5.00 to 6.30 pm. The church appointed Mr 陈恩显 as conductor, with Brother 李献宇 assisting and learning alongside him. Organisation Conductor: Ms 李照罗 (August 2014–2022) Rev. 李仁民 (2023) Mr 陈恩显 (March 2024–present) Accompanist: Rev. 朴智允 (August 2014–March 2016) Ms 李依楣 (January 2015–2023) Brother 李献宇 (March 2024–present) Mentors

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Methodist Chinese Kindergarten, 1928–2024

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Our church has always been committed to the ministry of education. In 1928, before the war, church leaders Rev. 邱清浩, Mr 骆文萃, Mr 洪清江 and Mr 李溪泉, together with several leaders from other churches, proposed establishing a kindergarten. Classes officially began on 1 August 1928, with premises temporarily rented from our church. Committed believers from three churches—our church, 圣工会 and 福音堂—jointly supported its expenses. There were just over 40 pupils on the first day, rising to more than 70 by the end of the month. Pupil numbers grew significantly in 1929, and two first-year primary classes were added alongside the kindergarten. With further growth, a bungalow on Jalan Acheh was rented as school premises in 1935. The pre-war 协和 Kindergarten was the first kindergarten on Penang Island. It developed into a primary school and eventually a secondary school. The 协和 schools were later handed over to members of the wider community to manage. In 1959, our church established Methodist Kindergarten, with Rev. 洪瑞云 as its first principal and Ms 邱淑楣 as its teacher. There were 33 pupils. The first graduation ceremony and parents' gathering were held in 1960. In 1961, Ms 邱淑楣 entered a government teacher-training college and was succeeded by Ms 张金清. The account then records that Ms 陈 taught until her marriage in 1967. Rev. 洪瑞云 retired in 1966 but continued to serve voluntarily as principal for two years. In 1968, Ms 柯玉松 became principal after completing her studies in Taiwan, with Ms 洪秀河 as teacher. When Ms 柯玉松 entered the University of Malaya's Diploma in Education programme in 1972, the writer of this account also assumed the principal's responsibilities. Ms 黄淑真, who had completed specialist kindergarten training in Taiwan, was appointed as an additional teacher. Ms 洪秀河 left for further studies in the United States in 1972, and Ms 李美容 served temporarily in her place until 1974. Ms 黄雅棉 was appointed as a teacher in 1975. Following improvements to facilities and teaching methods in 1972, the kindergarten made considerable progress and enrolment increased. There were 42 pupils in 1974 and 48 in 1975. The kindergarten offered Chinese- and English-medium classes. Teaching emphasised children's creativity, allowing them to develop their skills and receive instruction suited to their abilities. Character formation was equally important: children were taught honesty, courtesy, care for public property, respect for the national flag, attentiveness during the national anthem, obedience to parents, respect for teachers, friendship towards classmates and reverence for God. In the years covered by this account, graduates performed well in their subsequent schools, and many were placed in accelerated classes. Pupils, teachers and board members at the kindergarten's founding, 1959 The first graduating class, 1960 The 11th graduating class with teachers and guests, 11 November 1971 All pupils singing at the graduation and parents' gathering, 1974 The 14th graduating class with teachers, 1974 All teachers and pupils, 1975 In 1986, the kindergarten expanded to Bayan Baru, with Ms 黄蕾心 taking full responsibility for planning and supervision. Kindergarten teachers and pupils, 1995 Penang Methodist Kindergarten is registered with the Penang State Education Department. We provide a well-rounded education for children aged three to six. Our teachers work with local Chinese, Malay and Indian children, as well as children from China, Japan, Thailand, Bangladesh, Hong Kong, Vietnam and Laos. This learning environment helps our pupils develop mutual respect and live harmoniously with classmates of different ethnicities, cultures and nationalities. Alongside Malay, Chinese, English, mathematics, moral education and science, our pupils also learn computing, music, art, drama and physical education. We also take pupils on educational visits to the Butterfly Farm, Youth Park, Chew Thean Yeang Aquarium, the Toy Museum and 幻游世界. Children learn beyond the classroom through occasions such as Chinese New Year, Easter, Mother's Day, Father's Day, the Mid-Autumn Festival, National Day, sports day, birthday celebrations, cultural evenings and graduation ceremonies. The holiday camp held during the second part of the year-end school holidays is eagerly anticipated by the children. Activities include cooking, crafts, science experiments and food art.

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A Brief History of the Sunday School, 1895–2024

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Sunday School Song: Sunday School, Sunday School, the family home of all our children; Honouring our heavenly Father, loving one another, finding new life in joyful fellowship. Sunday School, Sunday School, the gathering place for all our children; Winning people for Christ, pressing onwards, offering ourselves faithfully as his soldiers. Studying the Bible, praising without ceasing; as children love the Lord, the church is renewed. Gladly obeying our Lord's commands, glorifying his name all our days. Our History: Sunday School ministry began on 18 June 1895, one month after our church was established. In 1917, our pastor, Rev. 邱清浩, gave particular attention to children's ministry. He reorganised Sunday School and actively developed its work, establishing a strong foundation. Enrolment rose to 250 pupils in 15 classes. In those early years, successive pastors and church workers managed its work and activities themselves. Enrolment grew rapidly in 1934. To develop the ministry, the Local Church Executive Committee began appointing a superintendent specifically to lead Sunday School. The first was Mr 柯宽心 (1934–1935), followed by Mr 倪汉卿 (1936), Mr 王则义 (1937–1940) and Mr 庄秉生 (1941). Alongside these superintendents, Rev. 黄懋庭, missionary Miss Urech, church worker 洪瑞要, Ms 陈淑美 and Ms 林清美 offered guidance. Teachers including the wife of Rev. 黄懋庭, Ms 杨玉莺, Ms 洪完全 and Mr 洪清江 worked together to develop the school. Enrolment at one point reached 500, meeting in five locations and using Hokkien and English. Alongside senior, intermediate and junior divisions, there were Hokkien adult classes and English youth classes. Sunday School ceased operating from 1942 to 1945 because of the Pacific War. It reopened in 1946 under superintendent Mr 叶恩谭, with more than 350 pupils, 17 teachers and 12 classes meeting at our church, Air Itam and Jelutong. In 1947, the appointment of superintendent became the responsibility of the quarterly circuit meeting, and Mr 叶 was reappointed. He left Penang in July, after which Ms 洪碧珠, Ms 洪完全, Ms 庄家珍 and Mr 陈承恩 jointly led the work for the rest of the year. Ms 洪碧珠, also known as 瑞云, served as superintendent from 1948 to 1952. In 1950, Sunday School began meeting at the same time as Sunday worship. In 1953, she responded to God's call to study at Trinity Theological College in Singapore. After graduating in 1957, she was appointed an assistant pastor of our church. Ms 林庆华 served as superintendent from 1953 to 1956. She introduced a revival class in 1954 and formed a children's singing group in 1956. In 1954, Sunday School contributed $2,000 towards the church's religious education building. Ms 庄家珍 served as superintendent from 1957 to 1968. During her 12 years of leadership, Sunday School undertook many activities. It contributed $200 towards the Air Itam preaching point's parsonage in 1957 and $500 towards the Jelutong preaching point's church building in 1958. Monthly teacher-training classes were held from 1958 to 1960. From 1959 to 1961, assistance and food were provided to pupils and children from needy families. In August 1963, Mr 骆宽容 led a Vacation Bible School attended by more than 200 people.

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2021-2024

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2021 The church welcomed newly appointed evangelist 李仁民 to serve alongside the Rev. 张振祥. The Adults’ and Young Adults’ Fellowships transitioned into small-group ministry, continuing to connect with adults. A new wave of COVID-19 emerged in January. The government announced Movement Control Order 2.0 from 13 January to 4 March. With cases and deaths rising sharply, the healthcare system nearing collapse, vaccines not yet available and incomes uncertain, people faced immense distress. We prayed that our gracious Lord would bring the pandemic to an end. The Conditional Movement Control Order introduced on 5 March allowed Sunday worship to resume, but standard operating procedures limited attendance to 180. Movement Control Order 3.0 was then imposed from 7 to 31 May, followed by a total lockdown from 1 to 28 June. Throughout the year, in-person worship and meetings repeatedly closed and reopened. We thank the Lord that online arrangements steadily improved, allowing worship and gatherings to continue through YouTube, Facebook and Zoom. As more people lost their income during the pandemic and Penang General Hospital urgently needed breathing-support equipment, the LCEC resolved to raise RM100,000.00 for community care. We thank the Lord that donations exceeded the target. The church donated four breathing-support units to Penang General Hospital and RM20,000 to CREST, using the balance for other community-care ministries to glorify God and serve others. The church also partnered with 7979 to distribute Manna food parcels and emergency financial assistance. From October to December, it donated 120 packed lunches to an orphanage and a disability centre. 2022 As vaccination and booster uptake increased in Malaysia, in-person worship and meetings gradually resumed. From the first Sunday of the year, the Rev. 张振祥 actively encouraged members to read the Bible. Several families who had moved from China to Malaysia attended Sunday worship regularly that year. In June, the Tanjung Bungah preaching point resumed in-person worship after being closed for more than two years because of the pandemic. The church also progressively upgraded its sound equipment that year to improve the audiovisual experience for both in-person and online worship. During the Chinese Annual Conference in November, evangelist 李仁民 was ordained as a church officer. In December, Christmas carolling and an in-person Christmas evening programme finally resumed after a long absence, and members joyfully celebrated Christmas together. 2023 The Methodist training school premises were renovated to serve both as a training centre and as a multipurpose centre for fellowships of all ages. The existing dining area was converted into a café to meet the needs of the church today. In addition to Sunday use, it would be available to the church’s fellowships during the week. Renovation of the two storeys cost RM588,313.07. A brief church history and historical photographs would be displayed on the café walls. The church repaired the sanctuary’s air-conditioning system. During the same period, the Tanjung Bungah preaching point repainted the exterior of its building and repaired the roof. Participation in the 10th World Chinese Methodist seminar on worship, liturgy and sacred music was restricted to brothers and sisters residing on Penang Island. The church subsidised its own members who attended. On 23 September, the International Christian Celebration Choir held its 2023 Northern Malaysia praise concert, “For Love”, at this church. The church held evangelism training on 21 October, with evangelist 邱学新 as the speaker. The church invited Brother 许道顺 to speak at its Christmas evangelistic meeting on the theme “The New Life of a Former Gang Leader”. 2024 On 1 January, the LCEC held its 2024 fellowship and discussion gathering. Church officers shared information about ministries, strengthened their relationships in Christ, and discussed their hopes for the church, with the aim of supporting members’ growth in faith. On 21 January, Chinese Annual Conference President the Rev. 廖克民 was invited to preach and officiate at the opening of the 80th Anniversary Hall and café. A committee was formed to prepare for the church’s 130th-anniversary celebrations. A logo design competition was also opened to church members, with church officers serving as the final judges. The Penang Chinese churches’ fellowship scheduled a Good Friday spiritual renewal meeting at this church on 29 March, with the Rev. 蔡家存 as speaker.

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