- Worship centre/focus: Include symbols of faith important in your culture/local customs e.g. Scriptures (a Bible); Baptism (shell/jug/bowl of water/font); Symbols of Eucharist/Communion; Cross; Candle; Drapes f colour, flowers. If culture allows, images/photos of known people of faith.
- WELCOME to everyone, young and old, taking part in this service. Welcome to country by indigenous people within Australia. A recognition of the traditional owners/carers of the land.
- Processional with ACWC banners
Leader: Because of the great things the Mighty God's has done for us all, we worship the Lord. His name is holy: from one generation to another he shows his mercy to those who honour him.
Hymn: TiS 161 vs 1, 2 & 4 Tell out my soul, the greatness of the Lord
Tune: Woodlands 10 10. 10 10 Walter Greatorex
Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord!
Unnumbered blessings, give my spirit voice;
tender to me the promise of his word;
in God my Saviour shall my heart rejoice.
Tell out, my soul, the greatness of his name!
Make known his might, the deeds his arm has done;
his mercy sure, from age to age the same;
his holy name – the Lord, the Mighty One.
Tell out, my soul, the glories of his word!
Firm is his promise, and his mercy sure.
Tell out, my soul, the greatness of the Lord
to children's children and for evermore! -Timothy Dudley-Smith
The Testimony From Generation to Generation
Reference to the fact that Aboriginal people have been living in and caring for this land for over 40,000 years. Acknowledge that it was European settlement that disrupted them, and had an impact on their life style, culture, and language.
In many instances it was the Christian Church which accepted responsibility for the care of people, especially children. The decision of the Government early this year to say ‘sorry'.
In the indigenous culture, story-telling is the way in which things are passed on … the sacred stories, culture and faith traditions wiped out by Christian people. … the smoking ceremony when a baby is born. …
Grandmother – Mother – Daughter, and also Younger to Older
The local committee will choose people to speak about
Learning the Faith,
Passing on the Faith
Leader: A thanksgiving for Australia
God of holy dreaming, Great Creator Spirit,
from the dawn of creation you have given your children
the good things of Mother Earth.
You spoke and the gum tree grew.
In the vast desert and dense forest,
and in cities at the water’s edge,
creation sings your promise.
Your presence endures
as the rock at the heart of our Land.
When Jesus hung on the tree
you heard the cries of all your people
and became one with your wounded ones:
the convicts, the hunted, and the dispossessed.
The sunrise of your Son coloured the earth anew,
and bathed it in glorious hope.
In Jesus we have been reconciled to you,
to each other and to your whole creation.
Lead us on, Great Spirit,
as we gather from the four corners of the earth;
enable us to walk together in trust
from the hurt and shame of the past
into the full day which has dawned in Jesus Christ. Amen
- Ms Lenore Parker from A Prayer Book for Australia (Broughton Books 1998)
Hymn: TiS 253 O Lord Jesus Marrkapmirr
Tune: Marrkapmirr 77.75 Australian Aboriginal melody
O Lord Jesus Marrkapmirr
all the power belongs to you,
hold me by this power O Lord
you alone are king
Now we praise you for your Word,
living, true and full of light,
yours the hands that rest on me
hold me for all time.
-Aboriginal people of Arnhem land, versified by D'Arcy Wood
(Note ‘Marrkapmirr’ is a term of endearment, and means in this context ‘altogether lovely, and worthy of affection’)
Prayers of Adoration and Confession
Leader: Creating God, you called the world into being, you hold all people in your love. You called each of us into being, breathing life into us and calling us to worship you.
People: We gather in worship for we love you and adore you.
Leader: Faithful God, from generation to generation you call people of every race to serve you. We learn stories of your faithful ones as we read or listen to their stories in the Hebrew and New Testament scriptures and in lives of people in more recent times.
People: God of all people, we love you and adore you.
Leader: Amongst them you called Noah, Abraham and Sarah, the parents of Moses and later Moses himself, prophets, kings and queens, shepherds, a slave girl, Naomi and Ruth, Esther, John the Baptist, your only Son, Jesus, those whom he called and others since. Some we know, others we don't. Many gave their lives, persecuted for their faith. Many of your faithful ones suffer still.
People: God of all people, we love you and adore you.
Leader:We pause to remember in silence those times we have not reflected the love of God in our lives. (pause)
Leader: Timeless God,
We confess that we do not live as the people you create us to be. (pause)
We do not treat your created world with respect, care or compassion. (pause)
In our selfishness we are often careless as we use all you give us, taking for granted
the resources you have created.
People: We ask your forgiveness.
Leader: Caring God,
We do not always love you, others or ourselves as we should.
We forget you love all people when we exclude people because they are different. Unlike us you set no boundaries of race, gender or life style.
Unlike your faithful ones in the past we hang onto our faith, not sharing it with others even ignoring those who worship you in different ways than we do.
People: We ask your forgiveness through Christ our Saviour.
Leader: Lord God,
Bring us together as one, reconciled by you and reconciled with each other.
You made us in your likeness, you gave us your Son, Jesus Christ.
He has given us forgiveness from sin. Lord God, bring us together as one, different in culture, but given new life in Jesus Christ, together as your body, your church, your people. Lord God, bring us together as one, reconciled, healed, forgiven, sharing you with others as you have called us to do. In Jesus Christ, let us be together as One.
People: Amen
Adapted from a prayer by Bishop Arthur Malcolm from A Prayer Book for Australia (Broughton Books 1998)
Words of Assurance
Leader: John reminds us that “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, so that everyone who believes in him may not perish but may have eternal life.” Hear Christ’s words of grace to us: “Your sins are forgiven.”
People: Thanks be to God.
THE PEACE one with God, and one with each other
Leader: The peace of the Lord be always with you
People: And also with you.
(Please exchange a sign of peace with those around you)
Hymn: TiS 693 Come as you are
Tune:‘Come as you are’ - irregular. Deidre Browne, David Putney
Come as you are: that’s how I want you,
come as you are; feel quite at home,
close to my heart, loved and forgiven,
come as you are; why stand alone?
No need to fear, love sets no limits;
no need to fear, love never ends;
don’t run away shamed and disheartened,
rest in my love, trust me again.
I came to call sinners, not just the righteous;
I came to bring peace, not to condemn.
Each time you fail to live by my promise,
why do you think I’d love you the less?
Come as you are; that’s how I love you;
come as you are, trust me again.
Nothing can change the love that I bear you;
all will be well, just come as you are. -Deidre Brown
Readings from Scripture
(May be read in different languages if your community has a mixture of cultures.)
Ruth 1:14b–19a
Hebrews 11:32–12:3
Psalm 139:1–18
John 3: 1–16
Leader: Gracious God, may your word live in us.
People: And bear much fruit to your glory.
Message
Prayers of Intercession
The Lord's Prayer (in own language)Leader: God of all truth, you have chosen as your blessed ones those who hunger and thirst for righteousness.
We give thanks for those whose lives have shone with integrity and goodness.
We give thanks for your prophets of old and all today who fight for justice, freedom, and truth.
People: We give you thanks and praise.
Leader: Help us to follow their example, that we too may be filled with your spirit.
God of truth, for all the saints,
People: We give you thanks and praise.
Leader: God of all humility, you have chosen as your blessed ones those whose hearts are simple and pure.
We give you thanks for those who do not grasp at material possessions.
We give you thanks for all those whose good works have been unnoticed and unsung.
People: We give you thanks and praise.
Leader: Help us to follow their example, that we too may come to see your face.
God of humility, for all the saints,
People: We give you thanks and praise.
Leader: God of all faithfulness, you have chosen as your blessed ones those who have remained steadfast in the face of danger and persecution.
We give thanks for those of this church who have gone before us.
We give thanks for all whom we hold dear who are now in your eternal presence. We give thanks for all who have followed in your way until their life's end.
People: We give you thanks and praise.
Leader: Help us to follow their example, that we too may rejoice to come into our reward and, with all the saints of heaven, worship you for ever.
God of all faithfulness, for all the saints,
People: We give you thanks and praise.
from ' Let Us pray' by Janet Nelson, Harper Collins Religious - with alterations
Prayers for our prayer partners (for example - Australia and South Korea)
Offering for the work of ACWC, with musical interlude
Offertory Prayer
Leader: We thank you, Lord, for all you have given us.
Please accept these tokens of our love for you and use the money to further the work of your kingdom through ACWC.
People: Amen
Hymn: TiS 455 For all the saints
Tune: Sine Nomine 1010.10 and Hallelujahs Ralph Vaughan Williams
For all the saints who from their labours rest,
who to the world their Lord by faith confessed,
your name, O Jesus, be for ever blessed.
Hallelujah, hallelujah.
You were their rock, their fortress and their might,
you were their captain in the well fought fight,
in deepest darkness still their one true light.
Hallelujah, hallelujah.
And when the strife is fierce, the warfare long,
steals on the ear the distant triumph song
and hearts are brave again, and arms are strong.
Hallelujah, hallelujah.
But see, there breaks a yet more glorious day;
The saints triumphant rise in bright array;
The King of glory passes on his way.
Hallelujah, hallelujah.
From earth’s wide bounds and ocean’s farthest shore,
Through heaven’s gate the holy people pour;
The Three-in-One for ever they adore.
Hallelujah, hallelujah. - William Walsham How 1823-97 alt.
Sending Forth and Benediction
Leader: Go boldly into the future that God has claimed for you,
know that the God who holds all things will be there,
that Christ who calls us friend will walk beside us,
and that the Spirit who makes all things new
will mark our way with light and hope.
And the Blessing of God,
Creator, Redeemer and Sustainer,
be upon us all and remain with us always
People: Amen
Hymn: TiS 720 Halle, hallelujah!
Tune: Halle, Halle. Caribbean Traditional – arr. Terry MacArthur
Halle, halle, hallelujah!
Halle, halle, hallelujah!
Halle, halle, hallelujah!
Hallelujah, hallelujah!
(repeat two or three times) - Caribbean traditional, World Council of Churches
Postlude
Prayers used with permission.
Prayers of Intercession written for this service.
TiS 161, 253, 693, 455 Hymns used with permission
(Together in Song, HarperCollins Publishers, Australia 1999)
* This order of worship was prepared by the National Executive of Australian Church Women
* Mrs. Shanti Solomon (India) Mother, Founder and the First Executive Secretary of the ACWC and the FLC, 1956-1982
* Dr. Margaret Shannon, (PW, CWUUSA) Pioneer and Founding member of the FLC Miss Dorothy Wagner (PW, CWUUSA) Midwife to the FLC and promoter of FLC
* Mrs. Rayann Ma (Hong Kong), Chairperson of the 1st ACWC Meeting 1958
* Mrs. Jael Cruz (Philippines), Chairperson of the ACWC 1958-1962
* Mrs. Juan Suriyakham (Thailand ), President of the ACWC 1962-1966
Mrs. Rathie SElvaratnam (Sri Lanka), President of the ACWC 1966-1970
Ms. Esther Bautista (Philippines), President of the ACWC 1970-1974
Ms. Agnes Loyall (India), President of the ACWC 1974-1978
Mrs. Gloria Santos (Philippines), President of the ACWC 1978-1982
Mrs. Boonmee Julkiree (Thailand), President of the ACWC/
Chairperson of ICFLC 1982-1986
Mrs. Maya Michael (India), President of the ACWC/
Chairperson of ICFLC 1986-1990
Ms. Monika Mannon (Bangladesh), President of the ACWC/
Chairperson of ICFLC 1990-1994
Mrs. Woranut Pantupong (Thailand), President of the ACWC 1994-1998
Mrs. Nancy Lin (Taiwan), President of the ACWC 1998-2002/ Chairperson of ICFLC 1999-2002
Ms. Annamaney Arumanayagam (Malaysia), President of the ACWC 2002-2006
Ms. Nareeboon Rachkeeree (Thailand), President of the ACWC 2006-President
Ms. Shanti Soloman (India), Executive Secretary, ACWC 1970-1981
Ms. Eunic Kim (Korea), Executive Secretary, ACWC 1982-1994
Rev. IIuminada A. Domingo (Philippines), Executive Secretary, ACWC 1994-2002
Ms. Chiang, Shu-Wen (Taiwan), Executive Secretary, ACWC 2002-Present
My dear ACWC Gen. Co. members:
Here is a very urgent request for prayers from the ACWC Secretariat Office.
Last week, our President—Nareebon was in the hospital for three days due to dizziness and nausea. She is fine now. May our Lord protect her mind, soul and health.
From the news we know that Thailand is facing another political crisis. We pray that our Lord bless Thailand for peace. We also pray for Nareeboon that she can have a safe and smooth travel to Korea on 17 April for our up coming Ex. Co. meeting in Seoul Korea.
Your prayers and support are very important to us.
From the Mongolian updates I can tell what our ACWC- Mongolia has taken towards its development. On 12 and 19 January 2009, the ACWC-Mongolia held board meetings. As a result, the Board agreed to select Ms. Munkhtuul Sodnomtseren as the new Chair Person. She automatically became the National Representative.
Munkhtuul was born in 1975. She is married and has two children (a son 8 years old and a daughter 6 years old). She accepted Christ as her Saviour in 1995 and has been attending the "Bright Future" church since then. She is a leader of the Women's Ministry team of her own church. She is also one of the four leaders of the Mongolian National Intercessory Network under the Mongolian Evangelical Alliance.
From 1997 to 2003, she taught at the Primary and Secondary School as an ESL teacher of the International School of Ulaanbaatar. From 2003 to 2007, she was the Executive Assistant of the World Vision International Mongolia. Meanwhile she worked part time as the country manager of the Australian Youth Ambassadors for the Development Program (AYAD). Since 2007, she has been full time for “the In-country manager of the AYAD program”.
Let us welcome the new member from Mongolia. We also appreciate Muno’s hard work for the ACWC in 2006-2008.
We arrived in Phnum Penh at 11:45am on 28 November, 2008. Saravy and her Driver Yin Sima came to pick us up and took us out for lunch. On our way to the restaurant, we told Saravy about the funds PCT-Women raised for her and Sima and we brought it with us. Saravy kept giving thanks to God, saying that “He is a God who answers prayers.” Then she explained about how CCA had given Kampuchea Christian Council (KCC) some money in May to pay for its workers, but the amount was only enough for 4 months. Starting from October she was not able to receive her monthly income. That is why she was very thankful that God not only had ACWC prepared 750 USD for her ministry, but also had PCT-Women raised money for her monthly income. “This way,” we told her, “you will have a steady income starting from October this year into the next year.”
Due to the KCC’s insufficient funding, the General Assembly had taken from the Women’s Desk’s founding in the past; because of this action, the KCC women’s ministries were suspended at one point. For this reason, in our first meeting with Saravy, she suggested we hand over the funds publicly and clarify the purpose of these funds in which they are not to be used otherwise.
In the afternoon we visited the KCC’s office, where we met Dith Sareth-the General Secretary, Van Arun Rasmey-the Chairperson of Women’s Committee, and three other Women’s Committee members. During our meeting, we handed over the funds to Saravy indicating that 1 of the 2 funds is strictly for Saravy and Sima’s salaries and the other is for the scholarship project for the poor children in Cambodia. Meanwhile, Sareth, the General Secretary questioned upon this decision because it would give the KCC 2 separate accounts, one for the office and another for the KCC-Women’s ministry committee. Also, he could not supervise the women’s ministry’s account activities. Thankfully, Arun volunteered to supervise Saravy’s ministry and the ministry expenses. It is also under the circumstance where the PCT-Women must first confirm the expense budget and Sareth will review the detailed expense list and ministry report. Finally we have reached an agreement after insisting on the restricted use for the funds.
Later on that night we invited the committee members, Saravy and Sima, for dinner. Despite of our language barriers, we really enjoyed each other’s company; with smiles and gratitude; we understood each other.
The Joyous Gathering on Women’s Saturday
The afternoon of the second day is Women’s Saturday. It is one of the KCC Women’s ministries, to gather church women across denominations. When they gather, they do Bible studies, they share and they pray. Sometimes more people would gather for special meetings such as the World Day of Prayer Service. The meetings usually take place in the general assembly’s office or in different churches led by Saravy or Arun during Bible studies. This time the meeting took place in Arun’s home. She opened her home to start a home church, and the pastor is her husband. I was the moderator for this afternoon’s service; and about 40 women came to the meeting. My translator is a student named Sous Navy, supported by the ACWC’s scholarship program for her university education. Our meeting ended earlier than we expected but we continued to share fervently with one another during dinner. During this time, we even prayed and took offerings for a woman whose husband is a pastor and the wife is a nurse for the poor.
The next day we went to Arun’s home for Sunday service. The moment we arrived, we saw a group of children having Sunday school in the yard. Once these innocent children saw us, they warmly welcomed and greeted us. The Sunday service was lead by Rev. Huang Mei-Lin. About 40 people came to the Service, most young adults who have brought so much energy to the church. To begin the service, Navy led us to worship. Although Rev. Huang and I did not understand their language we still came across some familiar Christmas tunes. In Rev. Hung’s message that day, she preached on God’s unchanging love. The fact that no matter what we go through in life, let it be poverty or adversities, God loves us the same; for we are precious in His sight.
After the service Arun invited us to stay for lunch, and took us to the Toulseleng Museum afterwards. This museum was originally a school, but later became a prison house for ex-politicians, social elites, and civil citizens when Pol Pot (of the communist party) was in power. Pol Pot killed millions of Cambodians in the past. Even though Cambodia is a republic and this country right now, still people cannot forget the sufferings they endured under the communist regime. Later the Cambodian government turned this building into a museum to serve as a reminder for the people to turn away from tyranny to pursue freedom and justice.
Visiting the Kindergarten for Poor Children
Early the next morning Sima came to pick us up to go to the Prey Khjey Village. It is the place where the kindergarten funded by “The Poor Children Scholarship Project” is located. Beside Saravy and Sima there was another women’s ministry committee member named Kem Ponavy coming with us. Initially the committee planned to enroll 30 children in the kindergarten, but ended up taking 24 children due to inflation. On the day of our visit, only 23 children came, and one was absent. The children are between the ages of 3 to 6, with the exception of the one child who is 10 years old. The 10 year old boy comes from a very poor family and could not afford to go to a regular school, which is why he came to this kindergarten instead. The kindergarten is located in Prey Khjeh Church; the church pastor’s eldest son is their teacher. His name is Khorn Hai, a 22 year old young man. And his mother Doung Kieng, the pastor’s wife, helps out by cooking for these children.
When we arrived at the church, Khorn Hai was teaching the children the alphabet. He warmly welcomed us, and in turn we were so excited that we took out the presents we brought for the children to give to him. He wanted us to hand out some of the gifts to the children, so we decided to give them candies. The children were very polite; they first thanked us then ate the candies. During our conversation with Khorn Hai he told us about his teaching with special emphasis on their attitude, and how to care for others. Although these children’s parents are not Christians, still he taught these children stories from the Bible and it was well received. Later he even asked the children to sing us a song. The way they sang and danced was simply adorable.Khorn Hai went on talking about his desire to teach the adults who have had little or no education. In the same conversation, he told us how his father pastors the church without receiving a monthly income.
While our conversation was brief, the poverty stricken village and its need for education were evident. In the end Rev. Huang and I decided to give some money to bless the church. We truly hope the church ministries will continue and the gospel will spread among the village people.
Another example of the KCC’s women’s ministry committee is the weaving classes. For that reason Saravy took us to see the process of weaving and one of the classes. We saw an instructor teaching the students one step at a time so the students can watch the instructor and imitate him. Saravy told us that because of the ACWC’s generous support they can afford to pay for the weaving machines and the instructor’s salary. The students purchase materials themselves so they can sell their finished product.
The Price of Democracy
On our way back to Phnum Penh, we visited the Killing Field where the massacre by Pol Pot took place. Once again, we were stunned by the evidence of Pol Pot’s violence and cruelty. At the end of the day we sat by the riverside, ate some local delicacies and then returned to our hotel.
Our trip in Cambodia ended on the 5th day. In the morning of our last day we even visited the palace. Even though Cambodia is a republic right now, it is still under a monarchy system, and the laws were constituted by the king. The palace had been a forbidden place in the past, but now the democratic system led the palace to open it to the public. We witnessed how the Cambodian government is transformed from absolute power to democracy, had established museums and opened up the forbidden palace. When I think of our country I am more determined that Taiwan cannot turn back on the road of democracy, we must cherish and keep the freedom we have now and protect the rights of our people.Even though our 5-day visit was short, still we felt very privileged to visit our prayer partners on behalf of the PCT-women’s ministry committee. During these amazing 5 days, the love of God was clearly with us because it helped us to care and to pray for the Cambodian churches in despite of our differences. We do wish this special bond between PCT-Women and KCC-Women will last in which we continue to pray for one another and to witness God’s divine love and acceptance.
Australia: Australian Church Women, ACW
Bangladesh: The Department of Women of National Council of Church in Bangladesh, NCC-Bangladesh
Cambodia: Women Desk of the Kampuchea Christian Council, KCCWD
Hong Kong: Women Christian Council, Hong Kong , HKWCC
India: All India Council of Christian Women, AICCW
Indonesia: The Women and Children Department of Communion of Churches in Indonesia, CCI (or PGI)
Japan: ACWC-Japan
Mongolia: ACWC-Mongolia
Korea: The Korea Church Women United, KCWU
Malaysia: The Council of Churches of Malaysia, CCM
Myanmar: Council of Churches Myanmar, CCM
Nepal: 2002-Isai Nari Samaj, Kathmandu, (Christian Women Society)
Since 2008-ACWC-Nepal
New Zealand: Church Women United Aotearoa New Zealand
Pakistan: National Council of Churches Pakistan
Philippines: Church Women United Philippines, CWUP
Singapore: Singapore World Day Prayer Committee
Sri Lanka: National Association of Church Women ( NACW) in Sri Lanka
Taiwan: The Women’s Ministry Committee of the Presbyterian Church of Taiwan, PCT
Thailand: The Women of the Church of Christ in Thailand, CCT
2009/2/9
My dear ACWC members:
This morning I received the mail from our ACWC Australian National Representative, Capt. Donna Bryan about brushfire in Australia:
“Dear Shu-Wen,
I am writing to let you know of the tragedy that has unfolded in Australia in recent days.
Over the last 3 days southeast Australia has endured devastating bushfires. The State of Victoria has experienced the greatest natural disaster in Australia's history with the worst loss of life since records began. To date, more than 120 people have perished and property losses are huge, as well as many people being injured and suffering life-threatening burns.
Ferocious fires began to roar across the Victorian bush on Saturday during record temperatures for Victoria. The temperature rose above 46ºC (115ºF) in many parts of Victoria and the bush seemed to explode as the smallest flames were whipped into a giant inferno by very strong and very hot winds that were blowing across the state.
Small town after small town was engulfed in flames with little or no warning and there were few means of escape. For Victoria’s small population of nearly 5 million, it has been a horrific time and in spite of cooler temperatures today there are still many fires burning out of control across the state.
New South Wales and South Australia have also been struggling with huge bushfires and extreme temperatures, but fortunately they have not sustained the high loss of life suffered in Victoria.
'On Christ the solid rock we stand.'
Donna”
http://n.yam.com/view/mkphotopage.php/20090209619965
I also received the update from our Gen. Co. member— Ms. Pat Walker who also came from Australia, she said:
“Dear Shu-Wen,
Here in Australia we woke to find out that Victoria is fighting eleven bushfires. Victoria is the state where Donna lives. In the north of Australia the states have had record floods and in the south we have had record heat with water restrictions. Although South Australia is also fighting bushfires at this time, Victoria has the worst problem. Usually our fires rage through bushland but these have destroyed many houses with loss of life expected to reach 40. Volunteer fire fighters have been travelling from all states to Victoria to help out and planes are being used to drop water from the skies. At times like these our volunteer emergency services work together but it is a very dangerous and difficult job fighting fires in 40 degrees C heat. We will all be praying today. As it happens this is the first day in two weeks that the temperature has fallen and the sky is overcast. I believe it is also a bit cooler in Vctoria.
(later, Pat sent another update to me
Further to my email yesterday re the bushfires in Australia. There have been about 500 fire crews from around the country fighting about 30 fires in Victoria overnight. So far 108 people have been killed and many more injured. 750 homes have been destroyed and three schools. Two people have been arrested for lighting fires. This is one of Australia's worst natural disasters. There are more fires in New South Wales but not as many as Victoria. The country is predominantly forest withy many trees in and around the country towns. People have been burnt in their own homes trying to protect them and in cars trying to get away.
The TV is covering the fire fighting efforts with updates on the situation as it changes. Today is cooler and light rain has fallen in some places but not enough. Please pray.
Pat Walker.”
My dear sisters, when I read the mail which Donna named is “Australia's heartbreak”, I also have a heavy heart. Please list the urgent request for prayer in your prayers. I really touch by Donna’s last word in her mail--On Christ the solid rock we stand.—Yes, the people should protect under our Lord.
Blessings,
Shu-Wen Chiang
Executive Secretary, ACWC
1958: Come, See, Go, Quickly and Tell, HK
1962: Launch out into the Deep, Thailand
1966: Abide in Me—Bear Rich Fruit, Japan
1970: Who is my Neighbor? Indonesia
1974: Fellow Christian, Thailand
1978: Called to Change—Committed to Service, Japan
1982: Co Workers in Christ for Renewal, Indonesia
1986: I Can Do All Things Through Christ, Thailand
1990: In Christ—Freedom, Growth, Hope, Indonesia
1994: Partnership Through Christ in a Changing World. Taiwan
1998: Rejoice, Reclaim, Response, Thailand
2002: Restore, Reconcile, Rejoice, Korea
2006: Celebrating the Legacy, Visioning the Future, Living the Jubilee, Malaysia
My dear ACWC Gen. CO. members:
Happy 2009 Lunar New Year to all of you.
All Taiwanese, HK people and Chinese will celebrate the Lunar New Year Holiday from this weekend. The Eve is 25 January and the New Year Day is 26 January. To us, it is the most important holiday in the whole year. Every Taiwanese/Chinese will go back to her/his hometown for a family gathering. This year, in Taiwan, we will have a 9-day holiday from 24 January (Saturday) to 01 February (Sunday).
I will spend the holiday with my family and church members. Therefore the ACWC Taipei Office will be closed during the holiday. See you on 02 February (Monday).
Blessings,
Shu-Wen Chiang
“2008/11/24
Dear Shu-Wen,
Greetings from Nepal
The initial meeting of the ACWC Nepal, was held on November 15, 2008 at 3:00 p.m. at the YWCA's office and I, Bishnu Rai, explained about the ACWC. We all agreed to establish the ACWC Nepal committee in order to start the activities of ACWC Nepal.
First of all, we formed the committee of ACWC Nepal as follows:
1. Ms. Bishnu Rai, Council Representative-- ywca@wlink.com.np
2. Ms. Draupadi Rokaya, General Secretary of YWCA Contact Person-- ywca@wlink.com.np
3. Ms. Ishwori Shrestha, Member
4. Ms. Jyoti Shrestha, Member
Therefore, this committee will work as the network with the YWCA. We hope this committee will work according to the Constitution of ACWC. The committee also recommends Ms. Draupadi Rokaya as contact person.
Yours sincerely,
Ms. Bishnu Rai”
It is not easy to start a new Committee in a new member country. Nepal really needs our support and prayers. Please send your welcome to ACWC-Nepal and present your support to Nepal.
Ms. Bishnu Rai (left) and Ms. Draupadi Rokaya (right)
2008/12/11
My dear ACWC members and friends:
The ACWC Secretariat Office sends warm greetings to you for Christmas and New Year's from Taiwan. The ACWC October-December 2008 Newsletter will be sent out to you on 26 December 2008.
Some of you have already shared your bountiful life in this year with us by different ways at the end of 2008. From the updates, we can read the messages about how the members celebrated the ACWC Day. The ACWC has presented the 50 ACWC Anniversary Celebration and Seminar to all of you this year. It is a kind of blessing to us that we can celebrate the FLC Jubilee in 2006 and the ACWC Anniversary in 2008.The ACWC Scholars sent their greetings to us. From the letters of thanks from those scholars, we can see the young women have been educated well through the support of the ACWC.
When we look back on this year, we remember how Nepal has become more democratic than before and the Christians there can open the doors of churches to join the communities' activities. We are happy to announce that the ACWC-Nepal has been formed. We still have a lot of worries and concerns about the world--the terrible attack which happened in November 2008 in Mumbai, India/ the political crisis in Thailand/ the Hindu attacks on the Christians in Orissa, India. Our life and the lives of the world was woven together in the lines of sorrow and joy. When we enjoy the happy times, we praise our Lord for His blessings. When we face the plight of hard times, don’t forget that we still have the promises of hope from our Lord.
May God Bless us and lead us to face a new year.
Your sister in Christ,
Shu-Wen Chiang,
ACWC, Ex. Sec.
2008/11/24
Dear Ms. Ester Dalisay’s family and the members of the CWUP:
I write on behalf of the Asian Church Women’s Conference, ACWC.
It was with a great sense of loss that the ACWC heard of Ms. Ester Dalisay's passing away.
The ACWC want to let you know that you have our deepest sympathy; our hearts are truly saddened.
We still remember every detail when Ester stayed with us. Her clever way of thought which helped us to clarify the complicated situation when the ACWC amended the Constitutions at the 12th ACWC Assembly in 2002 in Korea. We have expressed our appreciation for Ester’s excellent leadership during the group discussion at the 13th ACWC Assembly in 2006 in Malaysia. Relying on Ester’s help we could finalize the action plan for the ACWC Jubilee seminar in 2008 in Taiwan.
Ester was more than just a wonderful person; she was always so kind and considerate to us that we always welcomed seeing her at every gathering. Ester will always remain within our hearts, and we have included Ester’s family and the CWUP in our prayers. May God give you strength.
Our sincere thoughts and prayers are with you.
With our deepest sympathy,
Shu-Wen Chiang,
Executive Secretary, the ACWC
*. Our dear Philippines National Representative, Ms. Ester Dalisay, CWUP President, passed away on 13 November 2008 due to advanced cancer in her abdominal area. We can pray for her father, brothers and sisters and the rest of the De Los Santos (that's Ester's maiden name) family during this time of their bereavement over the loss of a loved one. Interment was scheduled for 2:00 PM, 16 November at her hometown in Plaridel, Bulacan--north of Metro Manila.
My dear ACWC sisters:
Greetings from the ACWC Secretariat Office.
I received the sorrow update from the CWUP about our Philippines National Representative, Ms. Ester Dalisay on 13 November 2008:
“Dear Shu-Wen,
With a heavy heart, I am saddened to relay the news that our dear Ester Dalisay, CWUP President, passed away today due to advanced cancer in her abdominal area. Let's pray for her father, brothers and sisters and the rest of the De Los Santos (that's Ester's maiden name) family during this moment of their bereavement over the loss of a loved one. Interment is scheduled this Sunday at 2PM at her hometown in Plaridel, Bulacan--north of Metro Manila.
Many blessings,
Zeny”
Please remember our sister and her father.
With prayers and love.
Shu-Wen
of Asian Church Women’s Conference, ACWC
Asian Women Moving Forward:
Non-Violent World
New Earth
Life in its Fullness
by Shu-Wen Chiang, ACWC
After Cyclone Nargis struck the southwestern corner of Myanmar--the Irrawaddy delta region and Yongon (2-3 May 2008), until the situation in Myanmar was stable, did the ACWC Executive Secretary start her visitation to the Nargis affected areas on 06-10 July. Before the visitation, I had the chance to join the CCA meeting- in Bangkok - the special meeting for the CCA member churches and councils from Korea, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Australia to determine their future plans. At the meeting we decided that the ACWC would focus on missions for women and children. According to the ACWC working plan, the Women's Committee of the MCC is the only channel for ACWC contacts in Myanmar. All of the applications from Myanmar should be endorsed by the current ACWC National Representative in Myanmar. This understanding was also accepted by the General Secretary of the MCC, Mr. Saw Shioe Lin.
Based on the special situation in Myanmar, it was inconvenient to report the details of my visitation then and there. But I can tell people that the churches and the NGOs already tried their best to work together with the Myanmar people.
I am especially glad that our Myanmar members can point out the real needs in the affected areas. They pay attention to the pregnant women (the women who lost husbands are a priority) in the affected areas. Why do many pregnant women need to be cared for? In rural areas, it is very usual for one family to raise 7 to 9 children.
When I was in Yongon, we spent two days to discuss the future plans. So far we have 2 draft steps:
The first step: Our Myanmar members will continue the current program—taking care of the pregnant women until they deliver their babies. At this moment, the MCC is promoting trauma healing and consultation in the affected areas.
The second step: Select the poorest families to give them financial support and economical training to help them be economically independent.
The whole budget is collected from Taiwan Churches. In December, the ACWC President--Nareeboon and I will meet the Myanmar members in Thailand to evaluate the programs in Myanmar.
Circle of Prayer is a meditation booklet published every two years by the International Committee for the Fellowship of the Least Coin (ICFLC) to “reaffirm prayer as the vital element of the FLC.” It was started in 1962 as a meditation guide by the women of Hong Kong for use as prayer is offered and the least coin is set aside. Since then Circle of Prayer has been an important part of FLC focused on different themes approved by the ICFLC.
The theme of the Circle of Prayer 2009 Vol. XIX is “Joining Our Hearts in Prayer”.
Introduction to the theme:
We are part of God’s community of believers. We are sisters created in a beautiful diversity and tapestry of skin tones, hair and eye colors, size and shapes. But within each of us there is a heart beating, giving life to our bodies.
Community comes as we reach out in love---as we extend ourselves through caring and embracing one another in a common bond of love and acceptance, hope and bearing each others burdens, giving and receiving emotional and spiritual support. This special community connected through the Circle of Prayer brings us together and provides a sense of belonging despite the individual circumstances or the many miles that may separate us.
Jesus calls us into reconciling ministries through his examples of blessing young children. He celebrated their giftedness and upheld their worth. As the child gave the loaves and fishes the gift was acceptable and more than enough. No gift is too small in God’s community. The woman at the well was treated with respect and Jesus recognized her as one capable of giving. He did not require proof of righteousness or worth, he served and he prayed.
We join our hearts in prayer for each other and for all our sisters and brothers around the world. Our circle invites everyone in and no one is excluded. May God bless our loving outreach.
By Gail Mengel
National President, Church Women United-USA 2004 - 2008
Possible Texts: a) Jeremiah 29: 11-13 NRSV
“For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope. Then when you call upon me and come and pray for me, I will hear you. When you search for me, you will find me; if you seek me with all your heart.”
b) Philippians 4: 5-7 NRSV
* 5Let your gentleness be known to everyone. The Lord is near. 6Do not worry about anything, but in everything by prayer and supplication with thanksgiving let your requests be made known to God. 7And the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.
c. Philippians 1: 3-6 NRSV
3I thank my God every time I remember you, 4constantly praying with joy in every one of my prayers for all of you, 5because of your sharing in the gospel from the first day until now. 6I am confident of this, that the one who began a good work among you will bring it to completion by the day of Jesus Christ.
d. Matthew 12: 34b
. . . For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks.
Suggested Guidelines for Writers of Meditations:
The typewritten meditation is around 500-700 words.
Deadline for sending the meditation to ICFLC office <icflcph@gmail.com> is November 30, 2008
Please send a scanned copy of photo and a brief profile of the writer along with the article by email
That the meditation materials share women’s stories and biblical reflections from the respective regions
Each ICFLC member may facilitate at least 3-5 contributions coming from different countries.
Suggested Format:
Title
Biblical Text
Meditation
Prayer
My dear ACWC Gen. Co. members:
Since the end of August, the Office has received prayer requests from Jyotsna (the ACWC 2002-2006 National Representative in India) ; from Shanthi (the current ACWC Gen. CO. member), and from Awala, (the ACWC 2002-2006 National Representative in India).
"Churches and Christians have been attacked again in Orissa, India.[Please see the NCCI Web site
http//:www.nccindia] in the sequence of events. Please pray for the Christians who have fled into the forest or jungle for fear of the attacks; they are without food or water. We are worried about their safety and security. The NCCI and all the Churches in India are appealing to the concerned authorities that the Christian community and their property be protected.
The National Council of Churches in India {NCCI} is also appealing to all the Churches and Christians in India to observe September 6th 2008 as a day of prayer for the people in Orissa, and also for the comfort of the threatened and injured people. Some departed people have been burned alive in the attacks.
We appeal to you to join us in solidarity with the victims.
Please send your support to our sisters and brothers in India. Please list their plight in your prayers.
With prayer and love.
Shu-Wen
1. Date: Arrive 7 October, Depart 12 October 2010
2. Venue: Indonesia
3. Theme: Asian Women Moving Forward
Sub-themes: Non-violent world/ New Earth/ Life in its fullness
4. Topics for General Assembly:
1) Natural disasters in Asia
2) Ecology and Women
3) Family Violence and Gender Relations
4) Youth and Empowerment
5) Human Trafficking
5. Biblical studies/topics:
The group chose not to focus on this area to prevent the speakers being locked in.
Theme accepted by a majority show of hands.
Suggestions:
Distribute an introductory page of information to the Bible study speakers regarding the theme.
Could use 3 sub-themes for Bible study leader(s)