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Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia Internal Circulation August 2013 13th Edition

Bishop’s Message

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PRAYING FOR OUR LEADERSthat our Lord acknowledged the authority of Caesar. This is a distillation of a wisdom that runs through the entire Scripture. Paul wrote to his young disciple Timothy, on how one should pray in a congregation. “I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men; for kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty” (1 Timothy 2:1-2). Peter also writes to the early Church “For the sake of the Lord, accept the authority of every human institution: the king, as the supreme authority, and the governors as commissioned by him to punish criminals and praise those who do good… Have respect for everyone and love your fellow believers; fear God and honour your king” (1 Peter 2:13-14, 17). These are important sayings because what the Apostles have written is simply not a “do this” and “do those” sanctions for the Church. They are in keeping with what Jesus said. Furthermore, during the time when the Epistles were written and read widely, the early Christian community was being persecuted both by the religious leaders of Palestine and the secular leaders of Rome. It is indeed surprising that the Apostles asked the early Church to pray for their leaders when the very leaders were hostile to the Church. So, we pray for our leaders not because they are patrons or because we want to patronize them. A Lutheran Perspective On Church And State

The Lutheran understanding of State goes back to our beloved reformer Dr Martin Luther’s elucidations on the Christian’s attitude toward the State: “The Christian ought to be particularly thankful to God for the gift of government, through which he graciously preserves human life. Government is part of “daily bread” and ought to also be “received with thanksgiving.” Along

Interceding For Our Leaders

It is customary in the ELCM to intercede for our King and the leaders of the nation in our worship services. We pray

that our King and the Prime Minister and his cabinet ministers will uphold the

law and bring about a just nation. Although many of us do not pay particular attention to this intercessory prayer, one cannot overemphasise its importance. We pray for our leaders not because it is a continuation of the tradition of praying for royal patrons as it is the case in Sweden or the United Kingdom. This may be true in those nations

but it is not the actual reason. Christians pray for very different reasons. God in his providence has given us a safe and progressive nation like Malaysia and we ought to learn to value this gift with thanksgiving and loyalty. Our genuine prayers for the general welfare of the leaders of our nation are the most excellent gesture of thanksgiving to our Father in heaven.

A Biblical Perspective On Church And State

When Jesus said, “Render unto Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and unto God the things that are God’s” (Matthew 22:21), he put to shame many who were oppressing the unfortunate people and yet claiming for themselves authority above the state. It irritated them to hear what Jesus said yet at the same time it showed

August 2012 10th Edition

PRAYING FOR OUR LEADERS

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with thanks goes our respect and prayers. We obey the government for the sake of God, who has established and preserves government and uses it as a means for caring human life. Even when the Christian has no need of the government, the government still needs him. Even though a government acts unjustly and protects injustice, it does not totally abrogate its character and authority as a government instituted by God. And the fact that a Christian must sometimes refuse to obey a specific order does not absolve him of his obligation to obey. The government has been directly established by God and is directly responsible to God. Therefore, God is its only judge.” These were some of Martin Luther’s basic ideas and he maintained them throughout his life.

Engagement With The World

Before I proceed further, let me dispel a false notion of those who think that anything that is political is worldly and unspiritual. For this reason, many Christians stay aloof and do not even read the newspapers. The fact of the matter is that no one alive can live isolated from the world. The gospels teach us that Jesus was in full engagement with the world. One who shuns society to preserve his or her righteousness is in error. The Scripture tells us that God demands justice for the oppressed and exploited people! In fact, the prophets are full of God’s demands because the holy nation must mean something or God is against it. The idea of an ethical kingdom or governance is not alien to Scripture but what is an ethical kingdom? How do we define this ideal? What should we do to bring about this ideal? Are we allowed to make mistakes? These are not easy questions to answer; and yet it is easy to jump into quick conclusions. That is why we must pray for our leaders who take it upon their shoulders to ponder what is good for the nation. A leader cannot rise to his throne if God himself had not allowed it. This is so because in God’s grand scheme, human leaders of the nations do the work of God. “Governments bring order into a lawless world.” Out of chaos, God brings forth creation. Out of the natural wilderness comes the orderliness of civilisation and state. So leaders of the nation are to be honoured and granted the respect appropriate to their office.

A Call To Pray

Now, one may ask what if the leaders are unjust and bad persons, do we still pray for them. The answer is

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“Yes!” We still continue to pray for such leaders.” So long as we pray for our leaders, we stand on the side of God who will wage war against unjust leaders. In any case, nations come to ruin not out of ignorance but because bad leaders are in power. If it is the will of such nations to live, they will reach a critical point when there is a violent overthrow of rulers. Such nations prosper thereafter! If they do not learn from their past mistakes, history tells us that they disappear from the face of the earth. Only a nation praying for itself and its leaders can be saved. Particularly, this commitment to pray is a call for all Christians in such nations. The Scripture calls for an ethical and just society for which our leaders should be mindful of; and for which we must keep reminding the Government. We read about corruption, pollutions and police brutality and it makes us all feel sad, frustrated and angry. But we must keep in mind that, more importantly we must protect the means and rights for such matters to be heard for action from the Government.

The Need For Our Prayers

In the last ten years, I must say our nation has become more fearless. We speak up and are prepared to assemble publicly and demand certain courses of action. Especially, our young people are vocal; clever with their technology; and willing to discuss common issues. When I was a youth, these were unheard of, and I am amazed of the new development. Granted that we have a long way to go, but to create a civil society is not possible without equally having courageous leaders. We need to pray for them. Malaysia is a nation which is still struggling with its colonial history and its legacy, its plural society, all its competing ethno-centric cultural demand; and its many complicated policies formulated in the past. There are still pockets of poverty. Great wastages occur because of corruption. We have serious environmental issues. We are unclear about our national identity, and how to shape our future. As Christian citizens, we are to build our nation, and think about what will make our God proud. Brothers and sisters-in-Christ, these are the very exact reasons why we must put God first in these issues.

Our ELCM policy prohibits our Church workers from active politics but they should positively pray for the leaders of our Government. As members of the ELCM, we are to participate wisely and build the kingdom of this world. At the same time, we must render unto God what belongs to him and recognise that this kingdom of the world, our nation, actually belongs to him. And that is why we need to keep praying for our leaders.

May the Lord continue to bless you as you set your heart to pray for the leaders of our nation! May the Lord our God continue to bless the good work of the leaders of our nation.

Rt. Rev. Dr. Solomon RajahBishopEvangelical Lutheran Church in MalaysiaAugust 2013

“Governments bring order into a lawless world”

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Nguhaupd; nra;jp

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ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020 3

n[gpj;jy;

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gq;nfLf;f Ntz;Lk;

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jtW nra;fpwhh;fs;. NtjkhdJ xLf;fg;gl;Nlhiu Fwpj;Jk;> Ruz;lgl;ltu;fis Fwpj;Jk; flTs; ePjp Nfl;fpwhu; vd;fpwJ. cd;ikapy; jPu;f;fjuprpfspd; thh;ijfs; flTspd; KO Nfhupf;ifia nfhz;bUf;fpwJ. fhuzk; gupRj;j NjrkhdJ mu;j;jk; nfhz;ljha; ,Uj;jy; Ntz;Lk;. ,y;iyNay; flTs; vjpu;g;gha; epw;ghu;. cyfuPjpahd uh[uPfk; my;yJ murhq;fk; Ntjj;jpw;F mayhd; my;y. Mdhy; cyf uPjpahd uh[;ak; vd;gJ vd;d? ,e;j rpwe;j fhupaj;ij vg;gb tiuaWg;gJ? ,e;j rpwe;j fhupaj;ij vg;gb nfhz;LtUtJ? jtWfs; nra;a KbAkh? ,tw;wpf;F gjpy; fpilg;gJ Rygky;y> ,Ug;gpDk; jpBu; jPu;khdk; nra;tJ Rygk;. MfNtjhd; ekJ jiytu;fs; ,ij jq;fs;Nky; Rke;J ekJ ehl;L ed;ikf;fhf rpe;jpf;f ehk; n[gpf;f Ntz;Lk;. flTspd; cj;juT ,y;yhky;> jiytu;fs; mjpfhuj;jpy; cauKbahJ. fhuzk;> flTspd; khngWk; jpl;lg;gb Njrj;J khDl jiytu;fs; flTspd; Ntiyia nra;fpwhh;fs;;;. ‘murhq;fkhdJ rl;ljpl;lkw;w cyfpy; xOq;if nfhz;LtUfpwJ.” cyfk; xOq;fpd;ikaha; ,Ue;jnghOJ flTs; cyif rpU\;bj;jhu;. ,aw;ifahd tdhe;juj;jpypUe;J xOq;FKiwahd NjrKk; ehfuPfKk; tUfpwJ. MfNt Njr jiytu;fs; kjpf;fg;gl Ntz;Lk;> mtu;fSf;Fupa mYtyf kupahijia nrYj;jNtz;Lk;.

n[gpf;f miog;Gjiytu;fs; mePjpahd kw;Wk; Nkhrkhd egh;fshf ,Ue;jhYk; mtu;fSf;fhf n[gpf;f Ntz;Lkh vd rpyu; Nfl;fyhk;. Mk;> ehk; njhlh;e;J mg;gbg;gl;l jiyth;fSf;fhf n[gpf;f Ntz;Lk;. ekJ jiytu;fSf;fhf; n[gpf;ifapy; ehk; flTs; gf;fk; epw;fpNwhk;> mth; mePjpahd jiyth;fis vjph;;j;J Aj;jk; nra;thh;. Njrk; moptJ mwpahikapdhy; my;y> jtwhd jiytu;fs; mjpfhuj;jpy; ,Ug;gjpdhy;jhd;. ,t;tpj Njrq;fs; njhlh;e;J ,Uf;f rpj;jk; nfhz;lhy;> rpf;fyhd #o;epiy cz;lhFk;> td;Kiw cz;lhFk;. Ml;rpahsu;fs; mfw;wg;gLtu;. mg;gbg;gl;l Njrq;fs; gpwF nropg;ghFk;. fle;JNghd jtWfspd;top fw;Wf;nfhs;shtpl;lhy;> rupj;jpuk; nrhy;YfpwJ cyf rupj;jpuj;jpypUe;Nj me;j Njrq;fs; kiwe;JtpLk;. jdf;fhfTk; ehl;L jiytu;fSf;fhfTk; n[gpf;Fk; Njrk; kl;LNk fhf;fg;gLk;. tpNr\khf> ,e;j n[gpf;Fk; nghWg;G ,g;gbg;gl;l Njrj;jpYs;s fpwp];jth;fSf;F nfhLf;fg;gLfpw Xh; miog;ghf ,Uf;fpwJ. tptpypaj;jpd; miog;gpd;gb newpKiwfisr; rhu;e;j ePjpahd r%fj;ij mikg;gjpy; ekJ jiytu;fs; ftdk; nfhz;bUe;J njhlu;e;J ,ij murhq;fj;Jf;Fk; Qhgfg;gLj;j Ntz;Lk;. ehk;> Coy;> khRghL> fhtyu;fspd; kpUfj;jd;ik Nghd;witfisg;gw;wp

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ekJ n[gj;jpd; Njitfle;j gj;J Mz;Lfshf> ekJ Njrk; gak; ePq;fpajha; cs;sJ. nghJf; $l;lq;fs; $l;LfpNwhk;. Fwpg;gpl;l fz;bg;ghd nraYf;F Nfhupf;if nra;fpNwhk;. tpNr\khf ekJ ,isQu;fs;> jq;fsJ njhopy; El;g jpwikAld; nghJ gpur;ridfis tpthjpf;f Fwy; nfhLf;fpd;wdu;. ehd;> ,isQdha; ,Uf;ifapy; ,tw;iwgw;wp Nfs;tp Nfl;lNj ,y;iy. ,e;j Gjpa tsu;r;rp fz;L Mr;rupag;gLfpNwd;. xU ey;y nghJ r%fj;ij cz;lhf;f ,d;Dk; fhyk; vLf;Fk;. mjw;F ijupak; nfhz;l jiytu;fs; Njit. mtu;fSf;fhf ehk; n[gpf;f Ntz;Lk;.

kNyrpah NjrkhdJ ,d;Dk; mjd; fhydpj;Jt tuyhw;iwAk; mjd; ghuk;gupaj;ijAk;> gd;Kf r%fj;jpy; Nghl;bapLk; ,d ikakhd fyhr;rhu NjitiaAk;> fle;j fhyj;jpy; Kiwg;gLj;jg;gl;l gy rpf;fyhd nfhs;iffisg; gw;wpAk; Nghuhbf;nfhz;bUf;fpwJ. ,d;Dk; mq;Fk; kpq;Fkhf tWik ,Uf;fpwJ. Coy; ,Ug;gjhy; ngupa tpuak; eilngWfpwJ. ekf;F fLikahd Rw;Wr;#oy; gpur;ridfs; cz;L. ek;Kila Njrpa milahsk; vd;d vd;gJk; ekJ vjpu; fhyk; vg;gb tbtikfg;gLk; vd;gJk; ekf;F njsptw;wjha; ,Uf;fpwJ. fpwp];jt gpui[fshfpa ehk;> flTis vg;gb ngUikg; gLj;JtJ> vg;gb Njrj;ij fl;b vOg;GtJ vd;Wk; Nahrpf;f Ntz;Lk;. fpwp];JTf;Fs; vdJ rNfhju rNfhjupfNs> ,g;gbg;gl;l fhupaq;fSf;fhfNt ehk; flTis Kd; itf;f Ntz;Lk;.

ekJ R. Y. jpUr;rigapd; nfhs;ifahdJ ekJ rig Copau;fs; jPtpukhd murpaypy; <LgLtij jil nra;fpwJ Mdhy; mth;fs; Njrpa jiytu;fSf;fhf n[gpf;f Ntz;Lk;. R.Y. jpUr;rig kf;fsha; ,Uf;fpw ehk;> ,e;j cyf uh[;aj;ij fl;b vOg;g Qhdkha; mjpy; gq;nfLf;f Ntz;Lk;. mNj rkaj;jpy; flTSilaijf; flTSf;F nfhLf;f Ntz;Lk;. ,e;j cyf uh[;aj;ij mq;fPfhuk; nra;a Ntz;Lk;. ekJ Njrk; flTSf;FupaJ. MfNtjhd; ehk; njhlu;e;J ekJ jiytu;fSf;fhf n[gpf;f Ntz;Lk;. cq;fs; cs;sj;jpy; Njr jiytu;fSf;fhf n[gpf;f jPh;khdk; nra;a Ntz;Lk;.

cq;fs; cs;sj;jpy; Njr jiytu;fSf;fhf n[gpf;f vz;zk; nfhz;Ls;sikahy; flTs; njhlu;e;J cq;fis MrPu;tjpg;ghuf. ekJ Mz;ltuhfpa flTs; ekJ Njr jiyth;fspd; ew;nray;fis MrPh;tjpg;ghuhf.

khkiwjpU. Kidtu; rhyNkhd; uh[hNguhau;kNyrpa RtpNr\ Yj;jud; jpUr;rig

1 [_iy 2013

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This editorial begins with a rather pertinent question: Are Christians in the will of God when they pray for their leaders regardless of their race, religion or creed?

Malaysia’s 13th general election is now over. It was held in a fair manner. And the Lutheran Herald echoes his majesty the Yang di-Pertuan Agong’s call for all parties to accept and respect the results of the election.

And what should the role of Malaysian Christians be in relation to the newly-elected government which includes the Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, Cabinet members, Members of Parliament, State Chief Ministers, State Exco members and members of the respective State legislative assemblies among others? What does God’s Word say on this matter?

The Herald categorically affirms that all Malaysian Christians must pray for our above-mentioned government leaders including the various local government authorities throughout our beloved nation, community leaders and not forgetting our archbishops, bishops, pastors and other spiritual leaders. This is scriptural. In 1 Timothy 2:1-2, the apostle Paul exhorts that we pray “for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence.” And he goes on to say in verses 3-4, “For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour, who desires all men to be saved and come to the knowledge of the truth.”

Corrupt politics and bad politicians may make us cynical about government. This could tempt us as Christians to neglect our responsibilities as citizens. The believers in Paul’s day may have felt this way. They lived under an increasingly hostile Roman government. Yet the apostle gave these practical ways to respond:

• Submit to God-ordained leaders (Romans 13:1)

• Pray regularly for leaders (1 Timothy 2:1-2)

• Live godly lives (1 Timothy 2:2)

• Do what is good (Romans 13:3)

• Pay taxes (Romans 13:7)

• Trust God’s sovereignty (Romans 13:1)

Remember, dear readers, that we, as Christians, participate in the nation’s politics not according to visionless policies or purposeless politics but according to God’s principles.

Indeed, Christians are in the will of God when they pray for their leaders regardless of their race, religion or creed!

God bless you all.

August 2013

Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia21, Jalan Sultan Abdul Samad, Brickfields50470 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.Tel: 03-2274 1033 / 03-2274 0204 Fax: 03-2274 1750Email: admin@elcm.org.myWebsite: www.elcm.org.my

The Lutheran Herald welcomes articles, including news on deaths, weddings, baptisms, confirmations and any other congregational activities. Please email your contributions to admin@elcm.org.my

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The Lutheran Herald is the official publication of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia (ELCM). For further information, please contact the ELCM as follows:

Committee

Christians Need to be Praying for Our Leaders

ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020 5

Editor-in-ChiefRt. Rev. Dr. Solomon Rajah

Bishop, ELCM

EditorRev. Albert P. Abishegam

Assistant EditorRev. Eliezer Peter

TranslatorsRev. Paul K.

Rev. Moses Muthusamy

Proof ReadersMrs. Rani David (Tamil)

Mrs. Cecilia Gabrial (English)

The Lutheran Herald Says …

We may lead a quiet and peaceable

life in all godliness and reverence

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,e;j jiyaq;fk; Vw;Gila Nfs;tpNahL Muk;gkhfpwJ. fpwp];jtu;fs; flTspd; rpj;jg;gb jiytu;fSf;fhf n[gpf;ifapy;> mtu;fsJ ,dk;> khu;f;fk;> ek;gpf;if> ,itfis nghUl;gLj;jhky; n[gpf;fpwhu;fsh?

kNyrpahtpy; 13uhk;; nghJ Nju;jy; ele;J Kbe;jJ. mJ epahakhd epiyapy; ele;NjwpaJ. ekJ Nguuru;> vy;yh fl;rpfSk; Nju;;jy; Kbit kjpj;J Vw;Wf;nfhs;Sk;gb Nfl;Lf;nfhs;tij> Yj;jud; JhJtDk; MNkhjpf;fpwJ. Gjpjhf Nju;e;njLf;fg;gl;l> gpujk ke;jpup> ke;jpup rig> ghuhSkd;w cWg;gpdu;fs;> khepy Kjy; mikr;ru;fs;> kjpg;Gf;Fupa khepy rl;lkd;w cWg;gpdu;fs; Nghjfu;fs; kj;jpapy; kNyrpa fpp];jtu;fspd; njhlu;G vg;gbgl;ljha; ,Uj;jy; Ntz;Lk;? ,e;j fhupaj;jpy; Njt thu;j;ij vd;d nrhy;YfpwJ?

Nkw;gl;litfSf;fhf ekJ NrkKs;s Njrj;Jf;F fpwp];jtu;fshfpa ehk;> cs;Su; murhq;f mjpfhupfs;> rKjha jiytu;fs;> ,tu;fis kwthky; Nguhau;fs;> Nghjfu;fs;> Md;kPf jiytu;fs; Mfpatu;fSf;fhf fl;lhak; n[gpf;Fk;gb Yj;jud; JhJtd; Nfl;Lf;nfhs;fpwJ. ,J Ntjj;ij rhu;e;jJ. 1 jPNkhj;NjA 2:1-2 y; gTy; mg;Ngh];jyu;> “mjpfhuj;jpy; cs;su;;fs;; muru;fs;;> MfpNahu; mikjpahf flTs; gak; nfhz;L gf;jpNahNl ehl;il ehl;il elj;Jk;gb Gj;jp nrhy;Yfpwhu;. njhlu;e;J 3-4 trdq;fspy; ‘ek;Kila ,ul;rfuhfpa NjtDf;FKd;ghf mJ ed;ikAk; gphpaKkhapUf;fpwJ. vy;yh kD\Uk; ,ul;rpf;fg;glTk;> rj;jpaj;ij mwpfpw mwpit milaTk;> mth; rpj;jKs;stuhapUf;fpwhh;.” vd;W nrhy;Yfpwhu;.

Coy; kpf;f murpaYk;> murpay;thjpfSk;;> murhq;fj;jpy;> ek;ik Fiwfhz nra;Ak;. fpwp];jtu;fshfpa ek;ik> ehl;L gpui[fSila nghWg;ig Gwf;fzpf;fTk; nra;Ak;. gTy; ,Ue;j fhyj;J tpRthrpfSk; ,g;gbNa czu;e;jdu;. mtu;fNsh mjpf gl;rkhd tpNuhj Nghf;if nfhz;l Nuhk murhq;fj;jpd; fPo; tho;e;jdu;. ,Ug;gpDk; gTy; mg;Ngh];jyu; fPo; fz;lthU nray; Kiw topapy; gpujpgypf;f nrhd;dhu;.

flTshy; epakpf;fg;gl;l jiytu;fSf;F fPo;gbjy; (Nuhku; 13:1)

jiytu;fSf;fhf njhlu;e;J n[gpf;fTk; (1 jPNkhj;NjA 2:1-2)

flTSf;F Vw;w [Ptpak; [Ptpj;jy; (1 jPNkhj;NjA 2:2)

vJ ed;ikNah mij nra; (Nuhku; 13:3)

tup tpjpfis gpd;gw;W (Nuhku; 13:7)

flTspd; ,iwahz;ikia ek;G (Nuhku; 13:1)

,ij thrpf;Fk; mUikahdtu;fNs> fpwp];jtu;fshfpa ehk;> Njr murpaypy; Njrj;J murpaypy; fye;Jnfhs;fpNwhNk jtpu> juprdk; my;yhj nfhs;iffspy; my;y. my;yJ mu;j;jkw;w murpaypy; ehk; gq;Ff;;nfhs;stpy;iy. Mdhy; flTspd; nfhs;iffspd;gbNa fye;Jnfhs;fpNwhk;. cz;ikapy;> fpw];jtu;fshfpa ehk; kw;wtu;fSila ,dk;> kjk;> ek;gpf;if> ,itfis ghuhky; n[gpf;Fk;NghJ flTspd; rpj;jj;jpy; ,Uf;fpNwhk;.

flTs; MrPu;tjpg;ghuhfgjpg;ghrpupau;Mf];l; 2013

fpwp];jtu;fNs ekJ jiytu;fSf;fhf ehk; n[gpg;gJ Njit

6

gjpg;ghrpupauplkpUe;J...

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Subang, 09.03.2013 - Sri Subang Lutheran Congregation youths during their “Stand Firm in Christ” youth event.

Puchong, 24.03.2013 – Puchong Lutheran Congregation members after their Palm Sunday Service.

Subang, 27.03.2013 – A Passion Song Service held at Sri Subang Lutheran Congregation.

Puchong, 31.03.2013 – Ladies of Puchong Lutheran Congregation after Easter Service.

Kuala Lumpur, 14.04.2013 - Elijah Raj Chan Yu Ren was baptised at Zion Redeemer Lutheran Congregation.

Petaling Jaya, 20.04.2013 – Children from Rumah Hope during their Junior Work Group Leaders’ and Assistant Group Leaders’ Training.

Petaling Jaya, 23.04.2013 – Bishop with other ecumenical Church leaders during the CCM 14th Triennial Assembly held at Hotel Armada.

Penang, 28.04.2013 – Zyvnn Raj was baptised at Victory Lutheran Congregation.

ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020 7

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Ipoh, 30.04.2013 – Youths from Immanuel Lutheran Congregation enjoying their BBQ during fellowship.

Kalrayan Hills, 10.05.2013 – Bishop and ELCM pastors visited ELCM Mission Centre in Salem, Tamil Nadu, India.

Chennai, 12.05.2013 – Bishop and ELCM pastors with Vaanmalar Lutheran Church (IELC) pastor and members in Chennai, Tamilnadu, India.

Cheras, 19.05.2013 – Mothers of Cheras Lutheran Congregation playing a game during Mother’s Day Celebration.

Kuala Lumpur, 23.05.2013 – Delegates from India Evangelical Lutheran Church (IELC) with Bishop during a discussion.

Petaling Jaya, 24.05.2013 – Good Shepherd Lutheran Congregation Men’s Fellowship members having dinner & fellowship.

Cheras, 31.05.2013 – Children and staff of Rumah Chrestus during their outing at Sunway Lagoon.

Puchong, 02.06.2013 – Participants of Junior Work Basic & Advanced Team Leaders’ Training during certificate presentation ceremony held at Puchong Lutheran Congregation.

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8 9

Teluk Intan, 08.06.2013 – The Management Committee of Rumah Harmoni Trinity during their fund-raising dinner held at Bethany Hall, Teluk Intan.

Penang, 11.06.2013 – Bukit Mertajam Lutheran Congregation Local Council members with YB Stephen Sim during his visit to the church.

Kuala Lumpur, 12.06.2013 – Visitors from Lutheran Church of Australia having a discussion with Bishop.

Penang, 13.06.2013 – Rumah Hope children during their visit to Victory Lutheran Congregation.

Port Dickson, 16.06.2013 – Fathers of Resurrection Lutheran Congregation during Father’s Day Celebrations.

Kulai, 22.06.2013 – Kulai Lutheran Congregation Dedication Service was officiated by Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah.

Johor Baru, 23.06.2013 – Bishop at Confirmation Service of Our Saviour Lutheran Congregation.

Cheras, 22.06.2013 – Fathers of Cheras Lutheran Congregation during their Father’s Day Celebration.

ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020 9

10 1110

Port Dickson, 23.06.2013 – Youths and adults from Resurrection Lutheran Congregation during a bowling outing and fellowship.

Johor Bharu, 23.06.2013 – Mr. Samykannu and Mr. Jayabalan were commissioned as evangelists by Bishop at Our Saviour Lutheran Congregation.

Petaling Jaya, 30.06.2013 - Good Shepherd Lutheran Congregation members after their Treasure Hunt Fellowship.

Kuala Lumpur, 30.06.2013 – Members of Zion Cathedral Junior Work ministry during Junior Work Service.

Port Klang, 30.06.2013 – Members of Holy Cross Lutheran Congregation worshipping in their newly-renovated premises.

Subang, 06.07.2013 – Pastors at Word and Worship Night held at Sri Subang Lutheran Congregation.

Malacca, 06.07.2013 – Members of Zion Cathedral Lutheran Congregation during their congregational outing to Malacca.

Penang, 07.07.2013 – Pastors at the dedication of Victory Lutheran Congregation’s new church door.

ePq;fs; jhd; jpUr;rig

10 11ngyg;gLj;Jjy; & tpupTg;gLj;Jjy; 2009-2020 11

nfhQ;rk; nghWq;fs;! jaT nra;J nghWikahf> ftdkhf thrpj;J ghUq;fs;. Mz;ltH cq;fSld; ,ilgLtij czHtPHfs;.

jpUr;rig vd;why; vd;d? jpUr;rig vd;why; vd;d vd;gij Ghpe;J nfhz;lhy;jhd;> jpUr;rigapd; tho;tpy; mq;fk; tfpf;Fk; tpRthrpfs; jq;fs; flikfs;> nghWg;Gfis Ghpe;Jf;nfhs;s KbAk;. rpwg;Gld; fHj;jUf;F kfpikahf tho Jizahf ,Uf;Fk;. jpUr;rig vd;fpw jkpo; thHj;ijf;F kpfTk; kjpg;Gk;> me;j];Jk;> Jha;ikAk;> fUj;J Mok; nfhz;ljhf cs;sJ. Gjpa Vw;ghl;by; jpUr;rig vd;w gjj;jpw;F vf;sP~pah vd;fpw fpNuf;fr;nrhy; 110 Kiw tUfpwJ. xU Nehf;fj;jpw;fhf mioj;J xUq;fpizf;fg;gl;Lk; kf;fs; $l;lk; vd;gjw;F vf;sP~pah vd;w gjk; nghUe;Jk;. ,];uNty; kf;fis A+jr; rigia gioa Vw;ghl;by; njhpe;njLf;fg;gl;l kf;fs;> miof;fg;gl;l kf;fs;> ,iwkf;fs;. (cgh 7:6> 14:2> rq; 135:4) Jha Mrhhpaf;$l;lk; (ahj; 19:6. cgh 14:2) flTspd; ke;ij (rq; 23:1> 80:1> 100:3> 79:13) vd;nwy;yhk; miof;fg;gl;lhHfs;.

jpUr;rig vd;why; miof;fg;gl;l kf;fs;. 1nfhhp 1:9> 24> 26>

27> 28. 1NgJU 2:9

,];uNtyH> Mgpufhkpd; re;jjpahH. fyh 6:16> 3:39.

JhatHfs; 1nfhhp 1:2> 1njr 4:3-7> NuhkH 12:1.

Jha ,uh[hPf Mrhhpaf; $l;lk;. 1NgJU 2:5>

rPlH. Yhf;fh 22:28> kj; 28:19> mg; 6:1> 9:1>26> 19:1.

rhl;rpfs;. Yhf;fh 24:28> mg; 1:8> 2:32> 3:15.

rNfhjuH. kj; 28:10> 12:50> mg; 1:16> 6:3> 9:30> 10:23

tpRthrpfs;. mg;: 2:44> 4:32> 1jPNkh 4:12

rhPuk;. Naht 6: 48-59> 1nfh 10:16>17. NuhkH 12:4>5.

ke;ij. Yhf; 12:32> kj; 10:16>

flTspd; tPl;lhH. vNg 2:19> fyhj; 6:10.

kzthl;b. vNg 5: 25-27>

Myak;. 1nfhhp 6:19> 2:16-17

jpUr;rig vd;gJ fl;blj;ij my;y [PtDs;s ,iwtid Vw;Wf;nfhz;L tzq;Ffpw miof;fg;gl;l kf;fisNa Fwpf;fpwJ. ,ijjhd; ghpRj;j gTy; cs;sq;ifapy; ney;ypf;fdp Nghy; 1nfhhpe;jpaH 6:19y; tpsf;FfpwhH. cq;fs; rhPuNk ghpRj;j Mtp jq;Fk; Myak; vd;fpwhH.

Mdhy; ,d;w jpUr;rigapd; epyik vd;d?ve;j XH mikg;Gf;Fk; ,af;fj;Jf;Fk; fhyg;Nghf;fpy; mjd; Jtf;fr; rpwg;ig my;yJ Mjp Nehf;if kwf;Fk; Nrhjid cs;sJ. fpwp];jtj; jpUr;rigiag; nghWj;jtiuapYk; ,J kpfTk; cz;ik. jpUr;rig cyfpy; ,Uf;fpwJ. gy rkaj;jtH thOk; #oypy; jpUr;rig itf;fg;gl;L ,UffpwJ. fpwp];Jit tpUk;GfpNwhk;> Mdhy; fpwp];jtHfis tpUk;gtpy;iy vd;W gyH nrhy;yf; Nfl;bUf;fpNwhk;.

kjpg;G> Jha;ik jpUr;rigf;F cz;lh? Vd; ,d;W jpUr;rig jd;rhaiy ,oe;J myq;Nfhykha; fhl;rp mspf;fpwJ. fs;shpd; Fifahf khwptpl;ljh? nts;is mbf;fg;gl;l fy;yiwah? xU Ntis gl;rpf;fpw Xeha;fSk;> Fs;sehpfSk; Ml;bd; Nt~k; Nghl;L jpUr;rigf;Fs; Eioe;J tpl;ldth? (kj;NjA 7:14>15) jpUr;rigapy; cs;stHfs; fHj;jhpd; ,uj;jj;jhy; fOtg;gl;ltHfs; my;yth! mthpd; jpUge;jpapy; gq;nfLg;gtHfs;jhNd! gpwF Vd; jpUr;rig ghtj;jpy; rpf;fpf; nfhz;L jtpf;fpw ghtpia Nghy; ,Uf;fpwJ? gpwF Vd; jpir mwpahj fg;giy Nghy; jtpf;fpwJ?

jpUr;rig vd;gJ fl;llk; my;y mjpy; mq;fk; tfpf;Fk; ,iw kf;fisNa Fwpf;fpwJ vd;gj ek; epidtpy; nfhs;s Ntz;Lk;. tpRthrpNa> ePjhd; jpUr;rig. cdf;Fs; xsp ,Uf;fpwJ. eP ,g;nghOJ vOk;gp gpufhrpf;f Ntz;ba fhyk;.

jpUr;rig kdpjiu my;y fHj;jiuNa gphpag;gLj;j Ntz;Lk;.

(fyh 1:10)

jpUr;rigf;Fs; cyfk; tuf;$lhJ khwhf cyfj;jpw;Fs;

jpUr;rig nry;y Ntz;Lk;. (kj; 28:19)

jpUr;rig Jha;ikahf ,Uf;fNtz;Lk;. (1njr 4:7)

jpUr;rigia kdpjd; my;y fHj;jNu fl;lNtz;Lk;. (kj; 16:18)

jpUr;rig Kjypy; mtUila ,uh[;aj;ij> ePjpia Njb>

ePjpf;fhf Nghuhl Ntz;Lk;.(cd; ePjpay;y mthpd; ePjp) kj;NjA 6:33

jpUr;rig ViofSf;F ,uq;fNtz;Lk;. (1Nah 3:17)

jpUr;rig kd;dpg;G ngw;w ghtfspd; $l;lk;. (1Nah 2:12)

jpUr;rig jd; cUtj;ij ,oe;J (cg;ghf) cyfj;jpw;F Ur

nfhLg;gtjhfTk;> cyfj;jpw;F top fhl;LtjhfTk;; (xspahf)

,Uj;jy; mtrpak;. (kj; 5:13-16)

jpUr;rig fpwp];Jtpd; ew;nra;jpapd; epkpj;jk; vijAk; re;jpf;f

Maj;j epiyapy; ,Uf;fNtz;Lk;. (kj; 10:38)

jpUr;rig nghUshjhuj;ij my;y Mj;Jkhf;fis Nrkpf;f

Ntz;Lk;. (khw;F 8:36>37)

ehNd thry; vd;whH ,NaR. (Nahthd; 10:9) jpUr;rigjhd; me;j thry;. mg;gbnad;why; kw;wtHfs; fpwp];Jtz;il tu ,ul;rpg;G mila jpUr;rigahfpa ePjhd; me;j thry; vd;gij kwe;JtplhNj. ,NaR nrhd;dhH [PtDf;Fg; Nghfpw thry; ,Lf;fKk;> top neUf;fKkhapUf;fpwJ. mij fz;L gpbf;fpwtHfs; rpyH. fs;sj;jPHf;fjhprpfSf;F vr;rhpf;ifahapUq;fs;. mtHfs; Ml;Lj;Njhiyg; NghHj;Jf;nfhz;L cq;fsplj;jpy; tUthHfs;. cs;sj;jpNyh mtHfs; gl;rpf;fpw Xeha;fs; (kj; 7:14>15). jpUr;rigNa Xeha;fSf;F [hf;fpwijahf ,U. Xehaplk; Ml;Lf;Fl;b rpf;fpf;nfhz;lhy; mjd; epiyik vd;dthFk; vd;W Nahrpj;J ghUq;fs;. Xehia milahsk; fhZq;fs;. ,J fHj;jhpd; MNyhrid. NgJU jd; ,ud;lhk; epUgj;jpy; 3:14 trdj;jpy;> gphpakhdtHfNs> ,itfs; tuf;fhj;jpUf;fpw ePq;fs; fiwaw;wtHfSk; gpioapy;yhjtHfSkha;r; rkhjhdj; NjhNl mtH re;epjpapy; fhzg;gLk;gb [hf;fpuijahapUq;fs; vd;W jpUr;rig kf;fSf;F ey;y xU MNyhrid $WfpwhH. fpwp];jt tho;f;ifapy;; flTs; ek;gpf;ifNa m];jpghuk;. mij rhpahf cWjpahf Nghlg;gl;L ,Uf;fNtz;Lk;. mbg;gil cz;ikia mwpe;J (Nah 8:32)> czHe;J (Nah 3:3)> Urpf;Fk;NghJ (rq;fPjk; 34:8)> mq;Nf ,ul;rpg;G> tpLjiy> mHg;gzk;> Mfpa ,it xU eghpy; eilngWk;NghJ fpwp];J kfpikailfpwhH. fpwp];Jit Kd;itj;J nray; gLk;NghJ ,iwtDila rpj;jKk; jpl;lKk; epiwNtWfpwJ.

,g;nghOJ eP nra;a Ntz;baJ vd;d?

,lkspg;Nghk;. trdj;jpw;F fl;Lg;gLNthk;. gTy; fHj;jUf;Fg; gphpakhdJ ,d;dnjd;W ePq;fs; Nrhjpj;Jg;ghUq;fs;> vd;W vNgrpaH 5:10y; nrhy;tJ Nghy; ehk; ek;ikNa Nrhjpj;Jg;ghHj;J> fHj;jUf;F gphppakhdij nra;Nthk; vd;W cWjpnkhop vLq;fs;. fHj;jH cdf;F GJ ngyid nfhLg;ghH. Gjpa fhhpaj;ij nra;thH. kwe;J tplhNj ehk;jhd; [PtDs;s jpUr;rig.

Mz;ltH cq;fSld; ,Uf;fpwhH.

mUs;jpU Nltpl; Njtgphpad;rPNahd; Nguhya jpUr;rig

ePq;fs; jhd; jpUr;rig

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Asian Youth Exchange (AYE) Malaysia 2013On the 4th of July, 2013 at 2.30pm,officials from the National Unity& Integration Department of the Prime Minister’s Department, Global Peace Festival Malaysia and the Ministry of Youth and Sports Malaysia together with about 200 youths from various Asian countries including Malaysia

who were participating in the Asian Youth Exchange (AYE) Malaysia 2013 descended upon the Zion Cathedral grounds as part of their Unity Walkabout programme which included visits to 5 houses of worship inLittle India, Brickfields.The participants and officials were met on arrival by Rev. Albert P. Abishegam and Rev. David Devapirian who represented Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah. The visitors were briefed on the history and current activities of the ELCM during a short welcoming-ceremony in the Lutheran Hall. The participants of the Unity Walkabout were also taken to Zion Cathedral and shown the various parts of the historic sanctuary. At about 3.30pm, after further briefing at the church premises, the AYE 2013 participants left for the adjacent Buddhist Temple.

Central District Leadership SeminarThe Central District Pastors’ Fellowship organised a Leadership Seminar on the 13th of July 2013 from 8.30am to 3.30pm at the Sri

Subang Lutheran Congregation premises in Bandar Sri Subang, Petaling Jaya.

ELCM Events / News Updates

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Sixty (60) church members and pastors from the Central District participated in the spiritually-enriching event. The speakers at the seminar were all pastors from the Central District. Topics like Prayer & Bible Reading, ELCM Order of Service, Power & Deliverance Ministry, Church Leaders as Peacemakers and God-Fearing Leadership deliberated upon. The seminar was well received by the participants who requested for more such events to be held in the future. The seminar ended at 3.30pm with a certificate-presentation ceremony.

Northern District Pastors’ Fellowship

The Northern District Pastors’ Fellowship hosted a gathering for the women of the Northern District at Immanuel Lutheran Congregation, Ipoh. Sixty women participated in this programme.

Second Pastors’ Conference 2013

The 2nd Pastors’ Conference for year 2013 was held on the 2nd of June 2013 at the Lutheran Hall, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur. The fruitful conference, ably chaired by Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah, was attended by 33 pastors and evangelists from throughout the diocese. The highlight of the conference was the District Programme Planning for year 2014. The conference ended with lunch at 1.00pm.

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Our Condolences... Mr. Albert Manoharan Muthiah of Zion Redeemer Lutheran Congregation was born on 7th August 1950 and called home by our Lord Jesus Christ on 4th May 2013 at the age of 62. The funeral service was held on 6th May 2013 at Zion Cathedral followed by burial at the Lutheran Garden, Subang. We thank God for his faithful services to the ELCM and express our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, relatives and friends.

Madam Annal Athistam wife of the late Mr. Athistam of Zion Cathedral Lutheran Congregation was born on 13th January 1920 and entered eternal rest on 12th May 2013 at the age of 93. The funeral service was held at Zion Cathedral followed by cremation at Cheras Crematorium. We thank God for her faithful Services to the ELCM and express our heartfelt condolences to her only daughter Ms. Florence Athistam, relatives and friends.

Mr. Munusamy a/l Veloo of Cheras Lutheran Congregation was born on 30.10.1959 and entered into eternal rest on 7th July 2013 at the age of 54. The funeral service was held on 9th July 2013 at Cheras Lutheran Congregation followed by cremation at the Cheras Crematorium. We thank God for his faithfulness to Cheras Lutheran Congregation and express our heartfelt condolences to his wife, children, relatives and friends.

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ELCM Events / News Updatesorganised a Family Day on the 24th of May 2013 at the Resurrection Lutheran Congregation in Port Dickson. More than 100 church members from the Southern District participated in the event. Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah was the guest-of-honour at the gathering while Rev. John Kalaimuthu was the guest speaker.

The Central District Sport’s Day

The Central District Sport’s Day, organised by the Central District Pastors’ Fellowship, was held on the 1st of May 2013 from 9.00am to 3.00pm at the Zion Cathedral grounds. A total of 200 church members from all over the district participated in 9 indoor games including futsal and tug-of-war. The Sports Day came to a close at 3.00pm with a fellowship gathering including a prize-giving ceremony at the Lutheran Hall, Brickfields, Kuala Lumpur.

Diocesan Junior Work Leaders’ Training

The Diocesan Junior Work Committee organised a National-Level Basic & Advanced Team Leaders Training Course from the 24th to the 26th of May, 2013 at the D’ Tepian Campsite in Ulu Yam, Selangor. A total of 50 leaders from throughout the diocese, including 5 from the Indian Evangelical Lutheran Church (IELC), participated in the event. All in all, the programme was a great success.The

Southern District Pastors’ FellowshipThe Southern District Pastors’ Fellowship

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ELCM Diakonia Ministries

Rumah Luther RiaThe Rumah Luther Ria Management Committee will be organising a Charity Food & Fun Fair on the 24th of August 2013 from 9.00am to 4.00pm at the Resurrection Lutheran Congregation grounds, Port Dickson to raise funds for the ministry. Please uphold this event in your prayers.

Rumah HopeRumah Hope held its AGM on the 26th of June, 2013. This meeting was chaired by Bishop Dr. Solomon Rajah. A new 12-member management committee was elected. Mr. Paul Manickam has been appointed as the new Director of Rumah Hope, a social ministry of Good Hope Lutheran Congregation. He is married to Sarah Paul and blessed with four children. He is a graduate in Accountancy from Hull University and a post-graduate in Business Management from Asia e-University. He has been involved in the multinational, corporate and GLC sectors for the past 20 years with vast experience in accounting, finance, marketing and customer services.

Rumah ChrestusRumah Chrestus, on the 8th of May 2013, played host to the Captain and crew of the Pakistani Navy Ship “Saif.” The children of the home not only received gifts and food items but were

also given haircuts and played indoor games with the crew.

Rumah Harmoni TrinityBishop Dr. Solomon Rajah dedicated Rumah Harmoni Trinity for the glory of God at a colourful ceremony held on the 20th of April, 2013. The home also organised a fund-raising dinner on the 8th of June 2013 at the Bethany Lutheran Congregation Hall, Hutan Melintang, Perak.

ELCM Outreach Ministries

Rantau Lutheran Outreach

The Rantau Lutheran Outreach currently provides spiritual care for 35 souls. Divine Worship Services are held every Sunday commencing 5.00pm. House Prayer Meetings attended by about 15 - 20 people are held every Thursday at 8.00pm. The Rantau Lutheran Outreach is in great need of a van to transport its members for services and meetings. Please contact Candidate Joseph Sinnapan at 016-604 0051 for further information.

Bandar Puteri Lutheran Outreach

The Bandar Puteri Lutheran Outreach, under the stewardship of Rev. Paul Mei Alagan, commenced operations in May 2012. The outreach provides spiritual care to 12 adults and 15 children. Divine Worship Services are held every Sunday at 5.30pm. Cell group prayer meetings are held every Thursday and Friday to reach out to non-believers. Bible classes for about 12 non-Christian children are also being held every Sunday.

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Church; to guard and enrich the worship of the Church; to be responsible for the good administration of the Church; and to be responsible to ordain, post, assign, transfer, suspend and withdraw assignment of pastors and deacons of the Church. These functions as the Bishop have given him invaluable knowledge and experience in managing any conflicts or other leadership-related issues.

As the head of the Church, as he was duty-bound to chair the executive council of the Church as well preside over all Assembly meetings. These experiences have taken him to develop a longstanding “vision” for the Church in the area of mission and leadership. Underscoring this “vision” is the overriding need to return to basics and bring the gospel of salvation to the people of the world.

In these twenty years in the office of the Bishop, he had the opportunity to serve in a number of leadership positions that reinforced his sense of vocation and professionalism: (i) as the President of the Seminari Theoloji Malaysia (STM) for five consecutive terms (1989-1990, 1990-1991, 1996-1997, 1997-1998, 2002-2003); (ii) as the President of Council of Churches in Malaysia (CCM) for two terms (1998-2000, 2001-2003); and (iii) as a Board member of the Christian Federation of Malaysia (CFM) (2001-2003). He was noted and appreciated for his invaluable contribution to the Fellowship of Indian Denominational Churches, Malaysia & Singapore (FIDC).

At the international forum, he was a member of the Council of Lutheran World Federation, Geneva (2005) and the Chairperson for the World Lutheran Relief, Geneva (2005). These exposures have impelled an additional motivation to his leadership quest and potentials.

This is what some of these leaders who worked closely with Bishop Julius Paul have commented about him: Bishop Julius had a good mind for theological engagement and excelled in public speaking. Bishop

Julius Paul was a great contributor to Seminari Theoloji Malaysia, the Malaysian Church and the nation. He in his quiet ways has contributed much to welfare, justice and peace in our society. He was a pastor, a friend, and a jovial person. His devotion and untiring energy to serve God has revealed the unspeakable depth of faith and commitment he had to the Almighty. Truly, we have lost a great man of God.

We have lost a wonderful friend, a loving husband and father, a balanced Christian leader, a great team player and one who will stand for fairness and justice. He had a big heart for all pastors and people. He had served in many bodies and his contributions were enormous.

Some Thoughts of the Late Bishop Julius D. Paul

The particular areas he concentrated were mission and leadership.

Firstly, mission, like preaching the Word of God, is vital to the life of the Church. Theology, mission, ministry and leadership structure are integrally related in the life of the Church, informing one another so that the image of Christ may be found in the corporate life of the Church. Only when leaders of the Church are aware of this truth, will the Church give much serious thought, effort and energy to incorporate mission as a way of life of the Church. He strongly believed that mission originates from God. From the

Old Testament to the New Testament, God is the initiator of mission. He is the sending God who sent his Word,

his Spirit, his people and his Son to bring a lost world to himself. We are called to do no less. God has commissioned the Church with this message of reconciliation. Once we have ascertained this fact, we are able to look at mission in a new light.

This enriching and deepening understanding and experience motivated him to focus on the areas of mission and leadership during his tenure as the Bishop of the ELCM.

This, he believed would assist to build a diocese that

was strong in mission, biblical teaching and would certainly create leaders who were true servants of Jesus Christ. His main goal in pursuing these areas was to help in upgrading the level of clergy and lay training in order to ensure that the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia continues to excel and remain at the cutting edge of this world. Secondly, he believed, as Christians, we all love the Lord and want to do his will in our lives. If we see that God’s heart is for mission, which is basically going out to the lost world to proclaim the message of salvation, we would want to follow in our Master’s footsteps. To do so, pastors and leaders need to have very clear goals and a vision of mission. We need to realise that mission is not another of the many Church programmes or activities but it is ministry in itself and an integral part of Church life. It was his contention that any “mission-leadership” related programme would enable participants to identify and demonstrate theological concerns, pastoral insights, gospel and missiological relevance and practical emphases for a situation and people within the realities of Asia.

To achieve this goal, he wished that every clergy would acquire specialised and in-depth knowledge in the field of mission and leadership, and gain skills

in using effectively the tools and results for teaching and training the laity in the Church. He was confident that he would positively apply his learning and findings within the Church and the wider Christian community.

Written by The Rt. Rev. Dr. Solomon RajahBishop The Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia

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The late Bishop Julius D. Paul who was consecrated on April

10, 1988 as the third Bishop of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia lodged a number of firsts by being the youngest Bishop at 44 years and the longest-serving Bishop of the ELCM, helming the Church for a total of 20 years until his demise in a tragic accident in Guatemala on November 23, 2008.

He was responsible for taking the Church into the international arena by sending pastors and Church workers abroad for training and further education besides inviting foreign Lutheran Churches to work with the ELCM in terms of training and other areas of common interest. His term of office saw the Church expanding with several new congregations being established.

Bishop Julius D. Paul was born on 14th of July 1945 in Kuala Lumpur. He was the eldest son of the late Mr. & Mrs. Alfred Paul. His death came as a great shock to many in the ELCM. It is a sad and tragic loss of a man who devoted his life for others.

He was always willing to share his time for others. All we needed to do was to knock on his office door; he would willingly listen to our problems and difficulties. Somehow, he would guide us to a solution to our problems and difficulties. He had a pastoral heart for the pastors and Church workers under his care. His openness and the leadership role he performed motivated many others to join the ministry of the Church. His leadership and churchmanship will be missed greatly. We pray that God will continue to comfort his family and grant him eternal rest. Bishop Julius will be sadly missed by all our pastors, Church workers and members who knew him directly and indirectly. Bishop Julius was always kind, humble, understanding and trustworthy. He was always cheerful and friendly to everyone. He loved his family and siblings. He loved the Lord Jesus and

the Church, he loved his country and he loved his people.

As a teenager, he had a keen interest for the Church and its related activities. He was an active member of the Lutheran Youth Fellowship, which provided the “pedestal” for his leadership formation.

He soon found himself being gradually entrusted with responsible tasks in the Youth Fellowship and the evangelistic work of the Church. Upon completing his secular education in 1969, he adhered to the Lord’s calling to the Holy Ministry by joining the Trinity Theological College (TTC) in Singapore. Having completed his theological education, he graduated with a Bachelor of Divinity in 1973. On the 16th of November 1975, he was ordained as a full-pledged pastor of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in Malaysia (ELCM).

In his capacity as pastor, he was assigned the task of nurturing the spiritual needs of Church members in a number of rural and urban congregations.

From 1975 till 1988, for a period of thirteen years, he was serving as Pastor in-charge of various congregations in the ELCM. During his tenure as Pastor in-

Bishop Julius D. Paul

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charge, he served as the Chairperson of the local Church councils. The foregoing experiences provided him with greater insight and strengthened his leadership abilities and professional skills in the context of pastoral ministry. This further equipped him in every respect to meet the challenges ahead of him and to play an important role in the arena of mission. His total involvement with programmes, both at the congregational and diocesan levels sharpened his competency in public relations and community service.

Increasingly, his participation in ecumenical meetings and conferences, both in Malaysia and overseas,

provided an excellent exposure and self-assurance. Over this period of time, he had opportunities to serve in various capacities such as being the co-coordinator of the “Youth Desk” of the Lutheran World Federation based in Geneva, Switzerland (1980); as a member of the Council of Seminari Theoloji Malaysia (STM); as a member of the Board of Governors of the Negeri Agro-Industrial Training Institute; and as a member of various committees set up by the Council of Churches of Malaysia (CCM).

As he undertook the office of Bishop of the ELCM, his commitment and responsibilities became double-fold in spearheading Church-growth and leadership. The call to be the chief Pastor of the Church and provide inspired leadership to constant renewal demanded on many occasions the special guidance of the Holy Spirit. With the wisdom granted by the Holy Spirit, he was able to offer love and warmth when people were in need of these.

Subsequently, the twenty years as the Bishop of the ELCM had enabled him to excel in a pioneering and supporting ministry in mission and diakonia; to protect and defend the doctrine of the