Dear Chrysalians and Partners of CYM,

2009 is coming to an end and I would like to share some thoughts with you to an eventful year to a close and to usher in the New Year with Overnight Prayer Meeting.

With Chai Hwa moving to Japan for missions work, the great work he had done had to be continued by everyone, and our CYM programs continued to be on track. Thank God for Pastor Anthony joining us, for the many hours he had spent with me on CYM! UMAD 7 Camp was a success, very positive experience with committed ICs, dedicated UMAD Advisors and vibrant youths. Mid-Year leaders’ retreat was an important consolidation moment. Bible Quiz was a fun-filled success. Restful year-end-retreat; as if soaring on wings like eagles.  Amazing Christmas Chill! What a “posh-y” showcase of talents! Praise God for all these made possible because of the love and dedication from all of you and the continued strong support from your families.  I wish to thank you for your contributions and your families for the support they have given.

When I took over Chairman of CYM this year 2009, one of my priorities was to ensure that our ministry can go the long haul, like a marathon runner, and the need to build team resonance to position our ministry for growth in God’s timing. After discussion with Pastor Anthony and Liang Fu, there will be some strategic challenges  ahead for Chrysalis Youth Ministry and our continued service must depend on how well we continue to walk close with God individually as well as a ministry. As CYM, our vibrancy must be balanced, anchored in Christ. Mentoring continue to be the key for developing our leaders and helpers to rise up to the occasion when necessary to meet these challenges.

Staying close to God

I believe that it is important to ensure that CYM factors in the necessary processes to ensure that our leaders continue to stay close to God without being overloaded. We need to embrace balance in our lifestyle so that we can serve God the long haul without burning out.  Our vibrant service as an outflow of our lives must be wisely balanced. The CYM committee have also been working extensively to put in the right system to ensure that leaders and helpers are taken care of. We must inculcate a habit of balancing our service not just in church, but at home, in school, or at work.

The next generation Youth Ministry

We look forward to a next generation of Youth Ministry, led by God, initiated by youths. To provide our youths with more opportunities to grow and serve, we have also started youth-initiated events, and opened up other areas where youths can be ambassadors to KIP. We will also be inviting our younger leaders to join us in the Business Committee so that they will be groomed early. You will also notice that we will also be making adjustment to allow more youths to take the lead for the work in the various Ministry Teams. I expect the plan for this to be finalised soon. This is one step in planning and preparing the next generation of leaders for CYM. 

One Family

We must encourage a culture of openness and trust in sharing our spiritual journey, in good times and in challenging times. We are one family, and sharing our journey teaches us that above all, God is in control, and allow the body of Christ to encourage each other.

Some Personal Reflections

I must confess that it was not an easy year for me to learn to trust God and let Him guide me through the ups and downs that many might not know. Through it all, I know my God is Jehovah Jireh, my provider! Introducing many of these changes were harder than I had thought. Changes which affect people and structures are very complex. I am constantly amazed by the many talents we have in CYM and the great potential as a ministry. I have learnt that very often, there is no one-size-fits-all solution and we need to address the diverse challenges, individual concerns creatively with love. Leadership renewal in CGs and Ministry Teams will be complex and need to be communicated early for your frank feedback and suggestions. Understanding your points of view help us make better informed decisions.

On behalf of CYM Business Committee, I would like to thank all of you for a memorable 2009, and wish you and your families the God’s favour in the New Year ahead.

^“And God is able to make all grace abound to you, so that in all things at all times, having all that you need, you will abound in every good work.” 2 Corinthians 9:8

To God be the Glory!

IHL

Linus : )