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Our youths on campus face numerous challenges, including intellectual doubts, peer pressure, and temptations that aim to silence their Christian testimony. Yet the Word of God provides all that is needed for spiritual strength and steadfastness. The psalmist declares, “Wherewithal shall a young man cleanse his way? by taking heed thereto according to thy word” (Psalm 119:9). A life of testimony begins with a life rooted in Scripture. Daily meditation in and obedience to the Word equip the heart to resist sin and to shine as a light before others.

Prayer is another vital pillar. Daniel, though a youth in Babylon, “kneeled upon his knees three times a day, and prayed, and gave thanks before his God” (Daniel 6:10b). His prayer life gave him courage to stand boldly even when threatened. In the same way, campus youths must cultivate disciplined prayer. They must pursue personal and corporate prayer life, seeking the Spirit’s wisdom and power to bear witness to Christ.

Fellowship among like-minded Christian youths is essential for living a strong life of testimony on campus. Godly companionship not only strengthens the believer, but also guards against the dangers of isolation. Scripture reminds us, “Two are better than one; because they have a good reward for their labour. For if they fall, the one will lift up his fellow: but woe to him that is alone when he falleth; for he hath not another to help him up” (Ecclesiastes 4:9–10). This principle was exemplified in the life of the early church, for they “continued stedfastly in the apostles’ doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:42). Indeed, isolation weakens faith, but godly friendships provide accountability, mutual exhortation, and a collective witness for Christ before the world. 

Through fellowships and Bible study, Gethsemane Campus Ministry becomes a training ground for our youths to be bold witnesses for Christ amidst the challenges of campus life. Testimony on campus is not optional; it is the very calling of every Christian youth. When youths walk in purity, pray in faith, and fellowship in love, they become living epistles known and read of all men (cf. 2 Corinthians 3:2). We encourage our youths in tertiary educational institutions to participate in Gethsemane Campus Ministry.

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Gethsemane Campus Ministry: An Avenue for Christian Exhortation and Fellowship

The Campus Ministry focuses on students in their tertiary education, through the weekly online Campus Bible Study (CBS) meetings, held every Thursday, via the Google Meet platform. By God’s grace, these are usually well-attended by Gethsemane youths and students, mainly from National University of Singapore (NUS), Nanyang Technological University (NTU), Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT), and Singapore University of Social Sciences (SUSS). 

We thank God for Pastor Koshy, who has been ministering to us during the past year on the theme: “Characteristics of God”, reminding us of His sovereign presence and guidance throughout the students’ life endeavours. Over the weeks, we have been enriched through the learning of God’s unchanging nature, perfect love, grace, and holiness—truths that anchor our faith and strengthen our walk with Him. From June 2025, Pastor has embarked on a new Q&A series, focusing on topics and common issues pertaining to making godly choices in Christian living. 

One memorable occasion of this academic year was the fellowship dinner on 14th August, where CBS members gathered physically to reflect on the Lord’s goodness and sustenance upon us all. We trust that such occasions not only strengthen our bonds of friendship, but also the unity we share in Christ. Pastor Koshy gave a short exhortation on “Always Putting God First”, which was a timely reminder for us, in view of our upcoming academic year’s responsibilities. We also shared much joy and laughter over dinner and games, before we took time to remember one another in prayer. 

Indeed, the Campus Ministry has been pivotal in encouraging youths from other churches as well. The regular Bible study sessions have been essential to keep us grounded in our precious faith, amidst the demands of our ever-increasing commitments. As we progress into a new academic year, our prayer is that the LORD will continue to sustain this ministry and the friendships forged, that more youths will join us to become shining testimonies for His glory!

“Let no man despise thy youth; but be thou an example of the believers, in word, in conversation, in charity, in spirit, in faith, in purity” (1 Timothy 4:12).

Bible Witness Media Ministry (BWMM) is an outreach arm of Gethsemane Bible-Presbyterian Church in Singapore. Since its inception, BWMM has sought to proclaim the truths of God’s Word through multichannel media, for evangelising the unregenerated and equipping Christians to live faithfully in their daily lives.

Media as a Ministry Channel

At the core of BWMM’s mission is a commitment to proclaiming God’s Word globally through modern media, aligned with Christ’s call to be the witness of His Good News: “…ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth” (Acts 1:8).

BWMM has a multi-format platform — print, video, web radio, Web TV and more. They are our practical response to Christ’s commission, ensuring that His message reaches diverse audiences with clarity and theological fidelity.

Scope of its Ministries

Publications

BWMM publishes the Bible Witness Magazine, a bi-monthly resource available in print and digital formats, as well as other sound Christian literature, for the advancement of biblical truth. 

The Bible Witness Magazine, our flagship publication, has been in circulation since 2001. Each issue presents doctrinally rich and practical articles designed to promote Reformed theology and uphold the integrity of the King James Bible. We have been releasing six issues annually of BW Magazine, each issue centred on biblical themes designed to edify believers and strengthen their spiritual understanding. 

The magazine features writings by pastors and teachers who are committed to biblical fidelity. Topics range from expositions of Scripture to themes like holiness, prayer, family life, missions, and Christian character. The articles are rooted in biblical teaching and are easily accessible to laypeople, making them a valuable discipleship tool.

In addition to the magazine, BWMM also publishes devotional books, sermon transcripts, children’s Bible materials, and evangelistic and theological pamphlets, extending the ministry’s reach beyond the pulpit. These materials have been reaching a broad audience, both domestically and internationally. 

To expand our reach and bring God’s Word to more people globally, some of our printed resources, such as Gospel tracts, devotional booklets, and basic discipleship materials, are being translated into various languages. This initiative allows believers in different cultural and linguistic contexts to access biblically faithful content in their own tongue. We prayerfully seek to do more in the years ahead, if the Lord permits, to ensure that the truth of Scripture is made accessible to every nation, kindred, tongue, and people (Revelation 14:6). 

Audiovisual Outreach

Through Bible Witness Web Radio (BWWR) and Bible Witness TV (BWTV), a specialised media channel under BWMM, the ministry produces audio and video content aimed at all ages. 

Bible Witness Web Radio, launched in 2007, is designed to provide round-the-clock biblical programming. This online radio station broadcasts a rich variety of spiritually edifying content, including Scripture readings, doctrinal sermons, gospel messages, and traditional hymns that uphold biblical truth. The music selections and teachings are carefully curated to support devotional growth and theological soundness. Available globally via internet streaming, the station serves as a spiritual companion for believers at home, at work, or on the move, fulfilling the call to “redeeming the time, because the days are evil” (Ephesians 5:16).

Bible Witness TV is committed to proclaiming God’s Word through edifying video content. It features spiritually enriching programmes for adults, including Bible teachings, doctrinal studies, and devotional reflections. It also includes sacred songs and traditional hymns that reinforce biblical truths and uplift souls, complementing its teaching segments with heartfelt praise and reverent worship. Another key highlight of BWTV is its dedicated children’s segment, BW Kids, which presents engaging Bible lessons, Scripture memory verses, sing-alongs, animated stories, and hands-on activities. It is explicitly designed to nurture faith in young hearts. BW Kids helps children grow in biblical knowledge and godly character. It aims to support Christian families in raising the next generation in the fear of the Lord.

Bible Witness Retreats by BWMM

Such retreats are spiritually enriching, family-oriented gatherings held biannually, typically during March and September. These retreats feature themed Bible programmes tailored for adults and children alike. For instance, the 25th Retreat (September 4–6, 2024) drew 71 adults and 17 children to fellowship and learn together; while the 26th Retreat (March 19–21, 2025), which focused on the theme “Heaven”, had 70 adults and 19 children participating. The participants often expressed in their testimonies their appreciation for the doctrinal depth and spiritual encouragement received through these retreats.

Furthermore, Bible Witness Media Ministry occasionally organises spiritually enriching Bible Land Study Tours to key locations in Israel, Greece, and Turkey. These guided tours offer believers first-hand exposure to biblical history, tracing the footsteps of Christ, the Apostles, and the early Church. From Jerusalem to Corinth and Ephesus, participants grow in faith as Scripture comes alive through historical context and reflection of biblical passages. The tours are thoughtfully planned to combine biblical learning, Christian fellowship, and more profound devotion to God’s Word.

Conclusion

Bible Witness Media Ministry is a strategically designed media outreach rooted in biblical fidelity and hospitality, with a modern digital reach. Through magazine, broadcast platforms, and audiovisual resources, BWMM continues to equip the Church, affirming that “faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God” (Romans 10:17).

Please continue to support generously through your prayers, participation and giving.

Prayer is not merely the lifting up of requests to God, but an act of confessing who God is. In fact, all our prayers must have confessions about who our God is, and how God saves and acts, acknowledging His nature, sovereignty and goodness. 

Prayers of Pure Adoration

We must learn to engage in prayers that are wholly devoted to adoring and praising our God. In such prayers, we confess the truths of Scripture about His nature, His glory, and His works. This is prayer at its purest—adoring God for who He is, not merely for what He gives.

David teaches us this posture: “Bless the LORD, O my soul: and all that is within me, bless his holy name” (Ps. 103:1). Here, prayer flows as worship, an outpouring of awe and love towards the God of covenant mercy. Likewise, when David prayed before the congregation of Israel, he exalted God’s majesty: “Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty” (1 Chron. 29:11).

Such adoring prayer magnifies His supremacy, acknowledges His sovereignty, and rejoices in His eternal attributes—holiness, righteousness, love and truth. These prayers echo the worship of heaven itself: “Holy, holy, holy, Lord God Almighty, which was, and is, and is to come” (Rev. 4:8). To pray in this way is to join the heavenly chorus, giving God the honour due unto His name (Ps. 29:2).

Prayers of adoration cut us off from earthly concerns and lift our hearts above earthly needs, and direct us to God’s eternal glory. They remind us that true prayer is not first about us, but about Him, the One who alone is worthy.

Such prayers humble us before the Creator, glorify Him as Redeemer-Shepherd, and deepen trust in His promises. Such a confession shapes our hearts, aligns our desires with His will, and reminds us that prayer is worship, not just mere request.

Examples of Prayers of Pure Adoration

The Bible itself provides many beautiful prayers of adoration, prayers that focus solely on praising and confessing who God is, rather than asking for anything. Here are just a few examples:

David’s Song of Praise (1 Chronicles 29:10–13): “…Blessed be thou, LORD God of Israel our father, for ever and ever. Thine, O LORD, is the greatness, and the power, and the glory, and the victory, and the majesty: for all that is in the heaven and in the earth is thine; thine is the kingdom, O LORD, and thou art exalted as head above all. Both riches and honour come of thee, and thou reignest over all; and in thine hand is power and might; and in thine hand it is to make great, and to give strength unto all. Now therefore, our God, we thank thee, and praise thy glorious name.”

Moses’ Song (Exodus 15:1–11): This is a prayer-song exalting God’s uniqueness and majesty. “…I will sing unto the LORD, for he hath triumphed gloriously: the horse and his rider hath he thrown into the sea.The LORD is my strength and song, and he is become my salvation: he is my God, and I will prepare him an habitation; my father’s God, and I will exalt him. The LORD is a man of war: the LORD is his name. Pharaoh’s chariots and his host hath he cast into the sea: his chosen captains also are drowned in the Red sea… Thy right hand, O LORD, is become glorious in power: thy right hand, O LORD, hath dashed in pieces the enemy. And in the greatness of thine excellency thou hast overthrown them that rose up against thee: thou sentest forth thy wrath, which consumed them as stubble… Who is like unto thee, O LORD, among the gods? who is like thee, glorious in holiness, fearful in praises, doing wonders?”

See also Daniel’s Prayer (Daniel 2:20–23), and Paul’s Doxology (Romans 11:33–36).

This kind of prayer is pure worship, where God is honoured not merely for His gifts, but for His glorious nature, eternal attributes, and mighty works. They confess His holiness and majesty above all. Let all our prayers be worshipful theology in action.

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Thanksgiving Report from Elder Eliezer

Blessed be the name of the Lord, who is full of grace and mercy, being the God of providence and the supreme Sovereign over all His creation and events.

The Lord be praised for the recent mission trip by the Mission Team from Gethsemane BP Church, Singapore, headed by Eld Mah. All glory be unto the Lord for the presence of the Mission Team in our midst. It was such a great blessing to us and the brethren from the 2 mission churches of Bogo and San Antonio. The Lord truly has His way of expressing His love to these brethren of our mission churches here. Through the messages preached in each of the homes, as well as the practical expressions of love through the giving of groceries to each family visited, our brethren had truly felt the warmth, love and affection of the Lord. And they are very much thankful to the Lord for the blessings they have received. Notwithstanding the muddy pathway towards many of these brethren’s homes, the Mission Team had joyfully walked through the mud, much like a farmer who would not be deterred from nurturing and cultivating the crops.

All praise be unto the Lord also for how He has providentially allowed the Mission Team to minister to the whole campus of Cebu Roosevelt Memorial Colleges High School Campus, consisting of over 900 students and faculty. The Lord indeed works in a mysterious way. The initial plan for the school was to conduct an evangelism session there to give out Gospel tracts on the campus. As we asked permission from the authorities for such an endeavour, lo and behold, a great door of opportunity was opened for us. The school instead gave us the time to minister to them. What was envisioned as giving out tracts to the students turned out to be a Gospel rally for the whole campus. Praise the Lord for His providence!

Even on the eve of the Gospel rally, the Lord providentially led the Mission Team in preparing “giveaways” for the students and faculty. The men of the Mission Team were about to visit the home of the next family in the afternoon, before the next day’s evening Gospel rally. However, a heavy downpour prevented us from visiting the family, as it would be very difficult to travel to their place (which is situated some distance from the road), due to the thick mud that would be encountered on the way to their home. This subsequently led the men of the Mission Team to go back to Bogo Church, where they became helpfully involved in the preparations for the “giveaways”. With the willing and able help of the men, the preparations were done just in the nick of time, ready for the last home for visitation and for the Gospel meeting. Indeed, the Lord is the God of providence.

Once again, all glory and honour be unto the Lord God Almighty, who daily loadeth us with benefits. With all that the Lord has been pleased to work out providentially in our midst, a great challenge lies ahead for the missionary-in-charge and the brethren of the mission churches of Bogo and San Antonio. Truly, praise be unto the Lord for the members of the Mission Team, whom the Lord has used for our timely encouragement and example. May His gracious dealings manifested during the Mission Team’s visit, be our “impetus” for His continued work of the Gospel amongst us. Please uphold us in prayer, that we may be “stedfast, unmoveable, always abounding in the work of the Lord” (1 Cor 15:58), for the harvest truly is plenteous, but the labourers are few.

Whether public or private, the reading of God’s Word is not a mere formality; it is a means of grace. Yes, that has been a deeply biblical and historical conviction among many sound Christians throughout the ages.

When Scripture is read, whether in the gathered assembly or in the quiet of one’s home, it is not simply the mechanical recitation of words. It is God Himself addressing His people. The Reformers called the Word of God one of the means of grace. Although it may seem like an ordinary thing to do, it is a God-ordained channel through which the Holy Spirit communicates life, faith, and sanctification.

Several key biblical truths support the conviction about the importance of reading Scripture. 

The Word is Living and Active 

“For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any twoedged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12).

The Word of God is no lifeless page of ink and paper. It is “quick”, alive and living with the breath of God; and “powerful”, able to accomplish all His purposes. When we read it, whether publicly or privately, the Holy Spirit wields it like a finely-honed sword, cutting through our self-conceited ideas and deception, exposing the thoughts and intentions of the heart, and laying us bare before the Lord. Yet the same blade that pierces also heals, bringing conviction that leads to repentance and comfort that restores the weary soul. 

The Word of God is living and enduring; it is the divine seed by which we are born again (1 Pet 1:23). It works faith in the heart through hearing (Rom 10:17), sanctifies God’s people in truth (John 17:17) and transforms lives by the Spirit’s power to the glory of Christ. To read Scripture is to place ourselves in the hands of the living God, who searches us, sanctifies us, strengthens our faith, and shapes us into Christ’s likeness (cf. Isaiah 55:10–11; Jeremiah 23:29).

The reading is not a dead ritual because the Spirit of God wields it to pierce, convict, and comfort.

Private Reading of the Word

Private reading of the Word draws the believer into intimate fellowship with the living God. As we open the Scriptures in solitude, the Spirit takes the inspired truths and speaks them personally to our hearts, guiding, correcting and comforting us. 

Like the psalmist, we can say, “O how love I thy law! it is my meditation all the day” (Ps. 119:97); and testify, “Thy word is a lamp unto my feet, and a light unto my path” (Ps. 119:105). In those quiet moments, the voice of the Shepherd is heard (cf. John 10:27), leading us deeper into His will and nearer to His heart.

The psalmist’s delight in God’s law (Ps. 1:2; 119:97) demonstrates that meditation on Scripture serves as a means of daily refreshment and spiritual growth. The act of reading and meditating on God’s Word is a means, not an end, for God Himself is the end. Through the Spirit’s working, the Scriptures read in faith draw us closer to our God and Saviour.

In the New Testament, we see private engagement with the Word shaping the lives of disciples. The Bereans “searched the scriptures daily”, to examine and be sure of Paul’s teaching as Scriptural (Acts 17:11), showing diligence in personal study. Timothy, who was taught the Scriptures from childhood, was urged to “continue… (in) the holy scriptures” (2 Tim. 3:14-15), underscoring the lifelong role of Scripture in the personal growth of a young believer. Philip’s encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:27-35) reveals God’s readiness to meet those who read and seek understanding. These examples show that private reading is not isolated from God’s presence; it is where He meets His people, instructs their minds, and kindles within them love and worship for Him in their hearts.

Reading and Instructing of the Word in Our Homes

From the earliest pages of Scripture, God’s covenant people have been charged with making His Word central in the home. The family is God’s first institution, and it is designed to be a miniature sanctuary, where His truth is known and obeyed.

The LORD God commanded His people to teach His Word at home. His command through Moses is foundational: “And these words, which I command thee this day, shall be in thine heart: and thou shalt teach them diligently unto thy children, and shalt talk of them when thou sittest in thine house, and when thou walkest by the way, and when thou liest down, and when thou risest up” (Deut. 6:6–7). 

This charge is to parents to act as instructors of His Word, by reading and teaching it in their households. The Word is to be woven into the rhythms of daily life: in conversation at the table, in journeys, in rising, and in resting. Such dissemination of instruction assumes the Word is known, read, and applied in the home. Family worship, with the reading of Scripture, prayer, singing unto and praising of God, is a practical outworking of such a commitment.

Christian homes were not merely residences, but centres of teaching, hospitality, and mutual exhortation – first to their household and then to others (cf. Acts 2:46; 5:42; 10:22, 24; 16:32; 18:7–8; 20:20; 1 Cor. 16:19; Col. 4:15; Philem. 1:2). 

Public Reading of the Word in the Church

Public reading of Scripture is a God-ordained element of worship, not a mere human tradition. Paul’s charge to Timothy (in 1 Tim. 4:13) — “give attendance to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine” — places it alongside preaching and teaching as central to the church’s life. Paul’s instruction to Timothy shows that reading is not a filler between hymns and sermons — it is an act of worship and ministry!

In Nehemiah’s day, “they read in the book in the law of God distinctly, and gave the sense” (Neh. 8:8), and the people worshipped. The New Testament continues this pattern. Jesus Himself read publicly in the synagogue (Luke 4:16-21). In Acts 13:15, after the reading of the law and the prophets in the synagogue, Paul was invited to exhort the people — showing that public reading prepared hearts for preaching. In Colossians 4:16, Paul instructs that his letter be read publicly in the Colossian church and also in Laodicea. The Book of Revelation opens with a blessing upon “he that readeth, and they that hear the words of this prophecy” (Rev. 1:3), affirming the spiritual benefit of hearing Scripture together. These examples reveal that from Israel’s assemblies to the early church, God has ordained public reading as a channel of grace, instruction, and corporate encouragement.

Conclusion

The reading of God’s Word is never presented in Scripture as an optional or ceremonial exercise. Whether in the secret place of private meditation, or in the living room of the house for family worship, or in the worship hall of a church gathering, the reading of Scripture is a holy duty, a privilege, and a means of grace. The Lord has given His Word not to be kept on the shelf, but to be read, that it might dwell richly in His people and be passed from generation to generation.

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Mission to Cebu City, Bogo and San Antonio

5th–10th August 2025

The theme of our short-term mission trip was “Looking Unto Jesus” (Hebrews 12:2a), with the theme song “Look to the Lamb of God.” Guided by this focus, the mission sought to glorify Christ through a twofold purpose: first, to proclaim the Gospel, bringing the message of salvation to those who have yet to know Him; and second, to encourage and strengthen our fellow brethren in the Lord, particularly in the congregations of Cebu City, Bogo, and San Antonio. With eyes fixed on our Saviour, we went forth prayerfully, trusting Him to work through His Word for the salvation of souls and the building up of His church.

To fulfil the first aim of the mission, Elder Eliezer sought permission from a school in Bogo for the team to conduct an evangelistic outreach within the school compound; if permission was not granted, the team would instead carry out street evangelism. In addition, Rev. Reggor requested permission for the team to visit a reformative centre in Cebu City. Children’s outreach programmes have also been planned for each of the sister churches. 

To accomplish the second aim, the Committee arranged for the team to visit the homes of fellow brethren in each of the three cities, and the sister churches adjusted their regular prayer and fellowship meetings to accommodate the team’s participation.

On the afternoon of 5th August, the team was warmly welcomed at the airport by many brethren from Cebu GBPC. Despite his physical affliction, Rev. Reggor had thoughtfully prepared a gift for each member—a farmer’s hat, serving as a meaningful reminder of our mission in the Lord’s vineyard.

The team was granted permission to minister to 320 Grade 10 and 11 students in a hall and to conduct evangelism on the premises of Cebu Roosevelt Memorial College (CRMC) in Bogo on 7th August. Our Omnipotent God moves in mysterious ways. On 29th July, a week before our departure, the principal unexpectedly offered the use of a newly renovated sports hall for us to minister to the entire student population of 950! With our Master’s piercing words ringing in our hearts, “Say not ye, There are yet four months, and then cometh harvest? behold, I say unto you, Lift up your eyes, and look on the fields; for they are white already to harvest” (John 4:35), the team unhesitatingly, yet prayerfully, redesigned the programme to hold a Gospel Rally for the students and staff of the school.

Being of short duration, the pace of the mission was intense. Besides the Gospel Rally to 900 students and staff of CRMC (Bogo), the team visited the Department of Health-Treatment and Rehabilitation Center (DOH-TRC) for Women, which has 76 residents and 30 staff, and conducted a Gospel meeting for about 30 adults at Sis. Ophelia’s home (Cebu). In all these outreaches, the Gospel of Christ was faithfully preached, accompanied by the singing of hymns and the theme song, and complemented with personal testimonies. The Children’s Outreach programmes held at San Antonio, Bogo, and Cebu City saw participation from 22, 31, and 64 children respectively. The Children’s Ministry also taught God’s Word to 41 children in the prayer and fellowship meetings and worship service in Bogo and Cebu GBPC.

The team ministered to 17 families of brethren scattered across the three mission locations, paid a visit to TGCM (Cebu), participated in prayer and fellowship meetings, and attended the Sunday worship service at Cebu GBPC. In all these gatherings, the messages and personal testimonies were focused on looking unto the Lord Jesus Christ and living for Him so that His name might be glorified. The families we visited, as well as our Filipino brethren in the sister churches, were grateful and comforted by the mission, and we, too, were greatly encouraged by the fellowship we shared in Christ.

The team formally concluded the mission trip with a prayer session for Rev. Reggor and his family, as well as for the fellow brethren in Cebu GBPC. We safely returned to Singapore in the early hours of 11th August, filled with joy at being enabled by the abounding grace of God and used by the Lord to accomplish much in His harvest, particularly in sowing the Gospel seed to more than a thousand souls in Cebu. All praise and glory be to the Lord!

Many of us were deeply saddened and troubled upon hearing the sudden news of Pastor Reggor Galarpe’s ill health. Concerned, I reached out to him by phone. Though he was enduring physical pain and facing the uncertainty of biopsy results, his voice remained calm and unwavering—bold in the Lord, as always. Despite the looming prospect of medical treatment, his heart was steadfast, eager to continue serving the Lord, whatever the outcome.

During our conversation, he mentioned an article he had written to inform and comfort the Cebu congregation while he and his family waited for the test results. We are privileged to share that article within the pages of this bulletin. This reflection was penned in the “shadow” of affliction, yet lit by faith.

As I reflected on Pastor Reggor’s ministry in Cebu and how the Lord has used him to strengthen mission stations across the Philippines for more than 20 years (since 2003), I was reminded that those called to serve Christ are often called to serve Him in seasons of unusual hardship. The apostle Paul testified to this very reality, declaring, “Serving the Lord with all humility of mind, and with many tears, and temptations, which befell me…” (Acts 20:19).

To serve the Lord in times of comfort is commendable, but to serve Him in seasons of affliction is extraordinary. The apostle Paul, in his farewell discourse to the Ephesian elders, pulled back the curtain on his ministry to show that it was accomplished not in ease, but with tears. He described it as a path that had been walked in suffering, hardship, and perseverance.

In “serving the Lord with all humility of mind”, Paul knew that divine strength is made perfect in weakness. Paul’s humility was not false modesty, but the fruit of a heart surrendered to divine grace. His Christ-centred service was marked by submission even amidst intense trials.

His service was also “with many tears”. They were not tears of defeat, but of intercession, of burden-bearing for the souls entrusted to him. These tears speak of the depth of his pastoral heart: a man not indifferent to pain of others, but willing to be poured out for others.

The phrase, “and temptations, which befell me”, reveals the severity of his afflictions. His calling placed him directly in the path of danger. Yet he remained unmoved, being focused on his calling as a preacher of the Word.

The servant of Christ is not spared from – but strengthened amidst – affliction!

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Going Through Series of Tests

Rev. Reggor Galarpe

“For which cause we faint not; but though our outward man perish, yet the inward man is renewed day by day. For our light affliction, which is but for a moment, worketh for us a far more exceeding and eternal weight of glory” (2 Corinthians 4:16-17). 

For some time, I have been bearing with occasional backache – a kind of painful sensation that many would consider as “panuhot” (bloatedness), which can be easily relieved by applying some liniment. It was no big deal until I started to feel pain on my right upper quadrant (right side of chest and abdomen); that was when I went for a medical check-up in September last year. I thought that it might have something to do with my internal organs (kidney, liver, gall bladder, etc.). I was ordered to go for the usual blood tests, plus ultrasound scan of the whole abdomen. All these revealed no “alarming” result, meaning everything’s fine inside – praise God!

However, the “on and off” pain continued, so the doctor advised that I go for the CT scan (whole abdomen). For some reasons (one of which was the cost), I thought of delaying it for some time later, hoping that the pain would be gone, but it persisted, though still manageable with the “ever-dependable” liniment. Then, in April this year, I noticed a swelling on my back. With all that was going on at that time, especially the preparations for our Combined Church Camp, I thought of seeing the doctor only after the event was over.

Indeed, a week after the camp, we went to see the doctor and I showed her the swelling. The initial impression was somewhat comforting, as she thought that it could be an accumulation of fat tissues. I was advised, in addition to the usual lab tests, to undergo another ultrasound (this time for my back), and also chest x-ray to see if it has affected my lungs. While the x-ray result was normal, the ultrasound suggested further imaging. Thus, the following week, I was scheduled for the CT scan of the whole abdomen (with contrast).

Again, I take comfort that all the internal organs are generally in normal condition, except for the swelling (caused by a mass), in which the result suggested tissue correlation. The doctor explained that the mass would have to be removed and be subjected to examination. I was referred to a surgeon and had been to his clinic last Wednesday. As per doctor’s advice, he will be taking some tissues from the affected part (a procedure that will be performed “out-patient”; no need for hospital admission), and have it examined to determine its nature. And from there, he will consider the treatment procedure, and work on reducing the size of the mass and then its removal.

In the midst of this, many things come to mind, but we (me and my family) look up to the Lord for His mercy and grace, yielding to His sovereign will and purpose. Humanly speaking, times like these can be very troubling and disturbing. But for us God’s children, they are occasions to seek and find (even rejoice) in God’s comfort. 

Come to think of it, it is in such times that we experience the goodness of the Lord in a very special way, and that we are drawn closer to the Lord and His Word, ever realising how helpless we are and how desperately we need the Lord!

Sister Diana Koh is fondly remembered by the Pastor, Elders, Preachers, Deacons, members, and friends of Gethsemane Bible-Presbyterian Church as a dear sister in the Lord who gave her very best in service to our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ. With diligence, unwavering faith, and thankfulness to God, she served for about 19 years as a devoted member of this church and a pillar in the administrative matters in the church office. 

“Her own works praise her in the gates”—Proverbs 31:31.

From the first day she took her post, she served, not for applause or recognition, but for the glory of God. Her hands were steady, her heart was loyal, and her presence brought order and peace to every task. In quiet strength, she fulfilled the work behind the scenes with excellence. 

“Well done, thou good and faithful servant... enter thou into the joy of thy lord”—Matthew 25:21.

Through seasons of joy and trial, Sis. Diana Koh was steadfast. When others grew weary, she pressed on. When things needed to be done, she did them. Her commitment was not out of duty alone, but out of love for Christ and His church. 

In her last few years, she endured many afflictions of advanced age. Now, her struggles and labour in this world have ended, and her name is called in heaven. She has entered the joy of her Lord. We rejoice that she now stands in the presence of the One she served so well—her Saviour, her reward. 

We thank God for lending us Sis. Diana Koh, such a precious vessel whom He has sanctified and strengthened to be part of Gethsemane B-P Church. 

“Blessed are the dead which die in the Lord... that they may rest from their labours; and their works do follow them”—Revelation 14:13.

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Q&A with Sis. Diana Koh

(Published in our Church’s Silver Jubilee Book)

How long have you been in Gethsemane?

By the grace and mercy of God, He led me to our Pastor, Rev. Prabhudas Koshy, sometime in early 1999. Pastor Koshy informed me that he needed an office assistant to work for Gethsemane BPC. He briefed me on the nature of the work. He also informed me that Gethsemane BPC did not have an office then and should I accept his offer, I would have to work from home. After much prayer, I agreed to his proposal and started work on 1 April 1999.

How has Gethsemane benefited you as an individual?

By the providence of God, I count it a privilege to serve in Gethsemane BPC alongside Pastor Koshy. He is very knowledgeable in theology and a skilful writer. I enjoy my work very much, especially because the exposure I get through my work is very edifying to my soul. There are many opportunities to learn the ropes and I am still learning new things every day.

Can you recount one blessing God has bestowed on Gethsemane over the years?

O the blessings of His good providence! When we needed a church office urgently, God led us to a small office unit for rental in one of the attics of a row of shop houses near Kallang MRT. That was the first church office of Gethsemane BPC. That enabled Bro. Lok Kwok Wah who joined us in the year 2001 to co-labour with Pastor and me from one location. This was the time when Pastor Koshy decided to produce the Bible Witness magazine. We occupied this office for more than three years until God gave Pastor Koshy the burden to look for a bigger office to accommodate the increasing ministries of Gethsemane BPC and the expansion of the Bible Witness Media Ministry.

What is one challenge you have witnessed God helping Gethsemane to overcome, and the lesson you have learnt from it?

I would say, it was the need of greater and stronger faith in God’s promises and unfailing guidance that God has helped Gethsemane to possess. For example, when Gethsemane BPC needed a bigger office, in the year 2003, we launched out enthusiastically to look for a building to purchase. After many months of ‘house hunting’ exercises, we found several potential places but the asking prices were beyond our means. Under the leadership of Pastor Koshy and the Church Session, the whole church was led to seek the Lord in fasting and prayer.

The Lord increased our faith. Members and friends of the church followed Pastor’s call not to rely on loans. Instead, they learned to give cheerfully whatever the Lord had enabled them to give. We asked in faith from the Lord whatever additional funds we needed. Within the short space of three months, God moved the hearts of His people (including brethren from sister churches) to give generously and sacrificially to the Building Fund. God provided more than what we needed—over $600,000 was given to purchase the office unit, which cost $545,000. This is our present Church Resource Centre. We secured the property in October 2003. It was a great lesson of faith, which we would always remember in the face of our many needs in the ministry.

How do you think Gethsemane has grown over the past 25 years?

Gethsemane BPC’s membership has increased gradually according to God’s will over the past 25 years. The consecration and unity in the leadership is the strength of Gethsemane BPC.

What is your prayer for the future of Gethsemane?

Praying that God will continue to sustain and nurture both the leadership and members of Gethsemane BPC so that they will become mature Christians to glorify His name.

Sis. Diana Koh was called home to be with the LORD on Monday, 2nd June 2025.

(Report by Pr Jeremiah Sim)

It was a sacred and joyous occasion for the Seniors’ Ministry to come together to reminisce and reflect on 20 years of God’s abundant richness and blessings upon this ministry. Our hearts are filled with praise as we echo the words of the psalmist in Psalm 111:1-4, “Praise ye the LORD. I will praise the LORD with my whole heart, in the assembly of the upright, and in the congregation. The works of the LORD are great, sought out of all them that have pleasure therein. His work is honourable and glorious: and his righteousness endureth for ever. He hath made his wonderful works to be remembered: the LORD is gracious and full of compassion.”

We are truly grateful to the Lord for enabling us to commemorate the 20th Anniversary of the Gethsemane Seniors’ Ministry with a retreat held at Gurney Bay Hotel, Penang, Malaysia (9th-12th April 2025). It was solely by God’s unfailing grace, mercy, and aid that every aspect of the event – from the meticulous planning to the demanding logistics – came together smoothly. We truly wish to extend our heartfelt thanks to the Lord for the brethren who enthusiastically served faithfully and joyfully, labouring in love and unity to ensure the seamless execution of this memorable 20th Seniors’ Ministry Anniversary Thanksgiving.

Upon our arrival at the Gurney Bay Hotel, there were mirthful delight and joyful excitement as we gazed upon the splendid view of the serene sea and coastline, which are wondrous manifestations of God’s marvellous creation (cf. Genesis 1:10). After a hearty dinner, our first meeting began at 8:15pm, with heartfelt praise and worship led by our song leader. Pr Samson then delivered the first exhortation, from Colossians 3:15-17, on the theme: “Be Ye Thankful”.

Over the course of the retreat, Pr Samson preached five encouraging and comforting messages, as follows:

The Reason for Being Thankful to the Lord (2 Thessalonians 2:13-14)

• A Thankful Heart is a Peaceful Heart (Colossians 3:15)
• A Thankful Heart is Ruled by the Word of God (Colossians 3:16)
• A Thankful Heart Proclaims the Word of God (Colossians 3:16)
• A Command to Be Thankful in All Things (Colossians 3:17)

In addition, we were edified by the sharing of God’s Word by Eld Mah, Eld Ng, Pr Jeremiah, and Pr Daniel, through four morning devotion messages, and a night prayer meeting. 

We give all glory to God for the rich spiritual lessons learned during this retreat. It was truly a fruitful time of reflection, thanksgiving, and growth for our seniors. Throughout the four days, many had put their faith into action—encouraging one another in the Lord, and showing care and kindness, especially to those who were less mobile. We praise God for His divine protection throughout our travels and the entire retreat. As the psalmist declares in Psalm 107:1, so too we pray, “O give thanks unto the LORD, for he is good: for his mercy endureth for ever.” 

To God be all the glory! 

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Testimonies from the Seniors’ Ministry Retreat

Dns Diana Chan

Thank God for a blessed GSM 20th Anniversary Retreat in Penang. I am thankful to Eld Mah and the team for their labour of love in organising the retreat for our seniors. In the morning of day one, we were encouraged by Eld Mah’s sharing of Pastor Koshy’s well wishes and prayer for us. Praise God also for church brethren’s prayers and love gifts for the retreat, as well as a blessed time of learning God’s Word and fellowship with retreat participants (not to mention the enjoyment of local delights in Penang). 

I thank God for the exhortation of God’s Word on the theme, “Be Ye Thankful”, preached by Pr Samson, and the devotions by Eld Mah, Eld Ng, Pr Daniel, and Pr Jeremiah (not forgetting the interpretation by Pr Daniel). Praise God too for the singing of hymns and spiritual songs (both in English and Mandarin), from pre-recorded piano instrumentals. 

Among many valuable lessons, I learned that it is the duty of believers to give thanks to God. The duty is not enforced. It is our required role. Realising that we were once wicked and doomed for judgment, but now are justified and saved for the eternal glory of God, we ought to thank God for the sacrifice of His Son, the Lord Jesus Christ, who died to redeem us from our sins. Our thanksgiving is rendered only unto God, the most High.

Our attitude in thanking God should be of a joyful and grateful spirit, like the thankful leper, thanking God for what He has done for us. A thankful heart is a peaceful heart. So, “let the peace of God rule in your hearts, to the which also ye are called in one body; and be ye thankful” (Colossians 3:15). A thankful heart is also one that is ruled by the Word of God. We are to “let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom” (Colossians 3:16). Furthermore, a thankful heart is one which is filled, controlled and ruled by the Holy Spirit. A person dominated by the Holy Spirit will honour God. 

May I give thanks and pray without ceasing (Acts 12:5), make a joyful noise unto the LORD, serve Him with gladness (Psalm 100:1-2), offer unto God thanksgiving, and call upon Him in times of trouble. All praise be unto God!

Carrie Lee

I thank God for enabling my husband, Raymond, and me to attend the recent Gethsemane Seniors’ Retreat in Penang. Thank God for the faithful exposition of His Word by Pr Samson. Thank God too for the morning devotions by the preachers and elders. I thank God for all who have laboured tirelessly for this retreat, be it in logistics, refreshments or other areas. Thank God for the sweet fellowship among like-minded brethren. May God help me to always remember to come before Him with much thanksgiving for what Christ has done at the cross. Help me to be thankful, Lord!

Wong Ah Yee

I learned much from the messages during the retreat for four days (9th-12th April 2025). God has helped me during the trip to Penang. I returned back home safely on Sunday, 13th April. I thank God for giving me the opportunity to go for the trip. I have to thank God for everything. I am very happy to go for the trip. If there is another chance to go for another Bible retreat, I would like to go again.

Margaret Poon

I praise and thank God for the opportunity to attend GSM’s 20th Anniversary Retreat in Penang, together with my mother (whom many of you call Auntie Rose). Thank God for the caring elders and other brethren, who are constantly on the lookout for the well-being of my aged mum, as well as other elderly members. I would like to express my gratitude to God for their kindness and support. 

May the Lord bless the brethren who had laboured and served joyfully in various capacities for the retreat. Indeed, the retreat’s committee and group ICs went above and beyond to provide excellent support, assisting with web check in, hotel logistics, serving in tea breaks, etc, providing a blessed experience.

 The messages on “Be Ye Thankful” emphasise the importance of acknowledging God’s blessings in our lives. Indeed, “whatsoever ye do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him” (Colossians 3:17). 

May the Lord continue to preserve us in our daily walk with Him, with grateful hearts through actions as well as words.

Cheng Han

Thank God for the organising committee of this year’s GSM Retreat, during which I learned many precious lessons from God’s Word through Pr Samson’s 5 messages. 

One lesson that struck me was how the Lord Jesus told the woman who had committed adultery, to “go and sin no more”. We were taught that we ought to thank God for our salvation. When our sins are forgiven, we have peace with God. We must then continue to embrace God’s law and live holy lives.

When we are thankful, we must tell others about the goodness of God. When we count our blessings, our hearts are full of joy. We encourage, edify and love one another, as we do all things heartily as unto the Lord. To do the work of God, we need to heed His Word, study His Word, hold forth the Word of life, and declare the whole counsel of God. I am thankful for Pr Samson, Pr Jeremiah, Pr Daniel, Eld Ng, and Eld Mah for their love for God.

Mary Goh

Recollecting God’s blessings and giving thanks for all His benefits are reflections of our humble desire and gratitude to honour and praise God (Psalm 100:1-5).

On the morning of 25th March, 2025, I slipped on a mango skin at the curb of the road. I lost my balance and fell by the roadside, resulting in the hurting of my left thigh all the way to the ankle. The pain was excruciating. I thank God that, by His mercy, the X-ray taken showed only a slight fracture of about half an inch away from the joint. I had to wear a cast under the doctor’s advice. By His grace, the cast was removed before the GSM 20th Anniversary Retreat, which enabled me to attend the retreat in Penang (9th-12th April 2025). I am truly thankful to God! In addition, I wish to thank Him for another of His blessing, in that as I walked the pain also subsided slightly. All praise be to the Lord (cf. John 15:7)!

The preaching of God’s Word during the retreat gave me times of reflection on God’s abundant mercies and the many blessings He has bestowed upon me, individually and as a fellowship of believers. As a follower of Christ, I have to thank God in whatever things I do (Col 3:17), and for whatever things that happen in life. God is to be honoured and praised in the lives of His people (1 Thess 5:18).

Daniel Svasti

We are thankful to God for Pr Samson’s teaching us through the 5 retreat messages, beginning with the sad but true reality that people are not naturally thankful. We were taught that we can only have peace with God when we are reconciled through His Son, and that “In every thing give thanks” (1 Thessalonians 5:18).

Reinforcing the messages were the daily devotions. Pr Jeremiah reminded us that as the sheep of His pasture (Psalm 100:3), we are to ponder and thank God for His Son, and for the privilege to listen to His Word. Eld Ng taught us to be grateful, just like the only leper (among the ten healed) who returned to thank our Saviour (Luke 17:11-19), and to thank and praise our Lord in times of affliction (Job 2:10). Pr Daniel not only translated every message and devotion during the retreat, but also gave the third devotion in English and translated it into Mandarin. He taught that in times of trouble, we must pray without ceasing (Acts 12:1-5). Eld Mah brought us the final devotion, leaving us with much thought from Psalm 50:14-15, where we learnt of the believer’s duties and God’s assurance. 

We thank Eld Mah for coming up with the Retreat Handbook and WhatsApp messages, to keep us all organised. We thank Pastor Koshy for his foreword (drawn from Psalm 71:17-18), which exhorted us that even when we are old and grey-haired, our Lord will not forsake us until we have shown God’s strength unto this generation.

Stella Svasti

Thanks to God for sustaining the Seniors’ Ministry for 20 years, and for giving Daniel and me this opportunity to attend the Thanksgiving Retreat in Penang. This blessed spiritual event is based on the theme, ‘Be Ye Thankful’, as well as the well-loved, heartwarming hymn, ‘Thanks to God’. 

It was a special joy to hear Pr Samson expounding the 5 theme messages taken from Col 3:15-17. May we let the Word of God manifest daily in our lives, that the new man in us be thankful in all circumstances, knowing that such thankfulness will bring forth peace with God and fruitfulness. We are to let God’s Word govern our hearts, so that we may love to proclaim the Word. We were further blessed by daily devotions from Pr Jeremiah, Pr Daniel, Eld Ng and Eld Mah.

We have so much to be thankful to the Lord for – His grace, mercies, goodness and daily provisions. The retreat helped us to appreciate the heavy responsibilities and challenges the organising committee had undertaken, so as to meet the participants’ physical and spiritual needs. O Lord, may You give me a thankful heart at all times!

Aileen Yan 

A command to “Be Thankful in All Things” is the theme for the messages of the Seniors’ Ministry 20th Anniversary Retreat, held in Penang (9th-12th April 2025). I thank God for enabling me to attend this retreat, together with 48 participants, to receive great blessings to learn from His precious Word.

Thank God for blessing us through Pr Samson’s sermons from Colossians 3:15-17, as well as through the devotions shared by Eld Mah, Eld Ng, Pr Jeremiah and Pr Daniel.

Lastly, I thank God for blessing us with very warm fellowship and willingness in extending care for one another. Praise the Lord for blessing all participants with good health and safety in travels. All glory be to God for granting all of us a very blessed 20th Anniversary Retreat.

Benjamin Chong

I thank God for enabling me to attend the 20th Seniors’ Ministry Anniversary Retreat at Penang. The messages preached by Pr Samson on the theme, “Be Ye Thankful”, are a timely reminder that “whatsoever ye do in word or in deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God and the Father by him” (Col 3:17). 

Against the severity of our lost condition, God’s goodness is manifested in the context of the salvation that Jesus has achieved eternally, which secures for us the peace from then on. This peace is constantly being built up through obedience, spiritual discipline, and with thankful hearts. Obedience calls us to have commitment to our duties of proclaiming God’s truth and love through our words and actions, which in turn will multiply thankful hearts within and around us.

It is a joyful encouragement to know that “thankfulness” can be achieved in all situations (Rom 8:28). It is not founded upon baseless worldly hopes, but fully grounded on God’s truth and character.

Ara Ballega

I praise the Lord for His abundant grace and provision in granting me the blessed opportunity to take part in the GSM 20th Anniversary Retreat. Truly, He orchestrated all things perfectly, and my heart overflows with thankfulness for His faithfulness (cf. Colossians 3:15). As I reflect on the Lord’s manifold blessings during the retreat, I’m thankful for the privilege of serving and growing together in Christ. I like to share some key takeaways, as follows:

Joyful and faithful service – I am deeply grateful for the dedicated efforts in the preparations, implementations / execution of the entire programme, including the preaching of God’s Word during the morning devotions (by Eld Mah, Eld Ng, Pr Jeremiah and Pr Daniel).

Nourishment of God’s Word – the exhortation of God’s Word by Pr. Samson on the theme, “Be Ye Thankful” (Colossians 3:15-17), which deepened my understanding of gratitude in Christ.

Spiritual blessings – The retreat was a time of feasting upon the wonderful truths of Scripture, strengthening our faith and drawing us closer to the Lord.

Sweet fellowship among the saints – God’s love was beautifully evident through the mutual care, encouragement, and prayers shared among brethren, a true testimony of His presence in our midst.

God’s provision – The Lord graciously provided a conducive venue, as well as nourishing meals and safety throughout our travels, ensuring our comfort and well-being.

Miriam Wong

I thank God for the preaching of God’s Word, and the fellowship, as well as the labour of love shown by all the brethren in Christ who toiled hard for this retreat. Thank God also for the readily available Grab service to bring us around the place. 

I see God’s goodness upon my father and my mother’s lives through Gethsemane Seniors’ Ministry. I am most humbled by their being alive, and that God is working in them still. Though it is heartbreaking that my mother could not join us in the retreat, I must learn to submit to God’s will in our lives.

Transfer of Membership

Thomas Tow

I was baptised as an infant in late 1951 or early 1952 in Say Mia Tng (Life Church’s English service) at Prinsep Street, and attended Sunday School there. My family later worshipped at Life BP Church at Gilstead Road, when the new building was completed in 1963.

Having been brought up in a fifth-generation Christian family and having attended a Methodist school for 12 years, God made it easy for me to learn the Word during my formative years. I believed in Jesus Christ as my Saviour and regularly prayed. However, I was not living like a Christian ought to live. As a youth, I was lukewarm in my faith and remained far from God. In my early twenties, I went abroad to England to study architecture and urban design. Upon completion of my studies, I remained there to work. I became engrossed in my pursuit of professional fulfilment and remained spiritually lost. After living nearly 10 years in England, I travelled to New York to work. Four years later, my US employer posted me to Singapore to work on a major project. I first met my wife, Melanie, in the Singapore office. I had wanted to return to worship in church regularly, but always procrastinated because of work matters and excuses. I even worked on Sundays when there were urgent project deadlines. Looking back, I’m thankful to God for placing in my life, my prayerful mum, aunts, uncles, brethren and Melanie, who were good, God-fearing influences. Praise God for Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd, for leading me back to His fold when I followed Melanie’s return to the Methodist church. I sought repentance and thanked Him for His grace and mercy (Psalm 145:8).

At church, I served as a church librarian and designed the church library. Being part of the Crisis Relief and Christian Outreach ministries, I taught English to migrant workers in their dormitories. Melanie and I co-facilitated in the church’s spiritual formation classes. We took part in mission trips to Cambodia and designed a couple of buildings for a missionary ministry. God has been good to provide these opportunities for us to serve. Our participation in Bible study groups through the years has helped me to learn God’s Word and to grow in faith. “Iron sharpeneth iron; so a man sharpeneth the countenance of his friend” (Prov. 27:17).

During the pandemic lockdown, I started attending online services and came across Gethsemane BP Church’s website. I was drawn to the forthright, fundamental and Bible-believing sermons by Pastor Koshy and the preachers. In early March 2022, I attended my first service at Gethsemane BP Church.

When I was diagnosed with early prostate cancer in March 2024, I was touched and blessed by the devotions and prayers received during a visit from Pastor Koshy and Sis. Carolyn, followed by a separate visit from Elder and Mrs Mah, and Pr Jeremiah and Sis. Gina. I give thanks to God for enabling me to be part of the Seniors’ Ministry, the church’s evangelistic outreach, St Luke’s Eldercare outreach (at Tampines and Marine Parade), as well as for availing Melanie and me to help out on the Vizag project.

Having received sound doctrine in our church, I am more grounded in the faith (cf. 1 Tim. 4:16). I thank God for the dedication, encouragement and support given by Pastor Koshy, the elders, preachers, deacons, deaconess and brethren, as I look forward to being a serving church member.

Melanie Francis Tow

I learned about Jesus early in life. My mother taught me to pray when I was 4 or 5, but my parents didn’t belong to a church. They sent me to Vacation Bible School and eventually Sunday School, where I became a regular and eager attendee. At age 15, I felt it was time to affirm my faith in the Lord Jesus through baptism. I attended the church’s membership class, and was baptized and confirmed into a United Methodist church in USA in 1972.

I continued to grow in faith through church and Sunday School up through my first two years in university. But when the decision to study architecture took me to a much larger institution, away from my Christian friends and overwhelmed me with course work, I stopped attending church. Striving, achieving and building my career became my priorities. I believed in God and still prayed, but my roots were not deep (Matthew 13:5-7).

It was the diagnosis of late-stage cancer in my mother years later that jolted me out of my spiritual slumber. Prayer became urgent and more regular. I returned to Bible reading in earnest. After quoting Scripture at her funeral, I promised God that I would return to church, which I did the following Sunday after returning to Singapore. I began to take seriously the importance of God’s Word, reading through the New Testament first, and later the Old Testament. God in His mercy opened the opportunity for me to lead a Bible study in church on Sundays for a group of domestic helpers. Over the 15 years I led the group, my knowledge of the Bible grew, and more importantly, so did my efforts to obey its truths in my life. I also served as a facilitator in the church’s spiritual formation classes. On a few occasions, I was invited to write for the church publication. My testimony would not be complete without giving thanks for my faithful, God-fearing husband, Thomas, whom I met on my first day in Singapore when I moved here for work in 1990. His mother was a model for my own spiritual growth, as have been other elderly aunts and uncles in the Tow family. For over 20 years, Thomas and I have been part of a small group which meets bi-weekly for Bible study, currently via zoom. The same group met for some years in our office to pray for missionaries and churches overseas. All these experiences have served to mould and shape who I am today. I can never thank the Lord enough for the great mercy He has shown me.

God is not finished shaping this pot of clay. When I have become too comfortable and confident in my professional work and ministry, God has taken steps to remove them. Significant losses over the last five years have served to dethrone the idols I had grown to rely on. Work in our architectural practice slowed and, soon after, my part-time teaching at the university. During Covid, church ministries I served in ceased. In late 2020, I was hospitalised for two weeks and underwent surgery to remove part of my colon. By God’s mercy, I survived and, in time, regained strength.  But I knew that life would never be the same again.  Two years later, I fractured both arms in a fall and had to rely on my husband to help me with even simple tasks like eating and washing. I believe the Lord used these humbling experiences to strip away vanity, pride and self-reliance that stood in the way of total dependence on Him. “For whom the Lord loveth he chasteneth...” (Hebrews 12:6). I now value every day as a precious gift. Jesus gave His life at Calvary to purchase me and redeem me (Ephesians 2:8-9). I owe my life to my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ.

Nothing changes us and helps in the slow but steady work of sanctification like God’s Word. At Gethsemane, sermons by Pastor Koshy and preachers continually bring new understanding of Scriptural passages, challenging me to apply them in my daily life. The Catechism classes have deepened my knowledge and clarified doctrines I never fully understood. I have been so blessed by the dedication, warmth, generosity and genuine faith of the elders, deacons, deaconess and brethren I have met, especially through the Ladies’ Fellowship, Seniors’ Ministry and Pastoral Visitation. Particularly touching were visits made to our home by Pastor Koshy and Sis. Carolyn, and by Elder and Mrs Mah, Pr Jeremiah and Sis. Gina, who came to pray and encourage us after Thomas was diagnosed with prostate cancer. I am grateful to be worshipping in a church focused on fulfilling the Great Commission. It is a joy to be part of the monthly evangelism in Bedok and at St Luke’s Eldercare. Moreover, Thomas and I are thankful that we can help with the Vizag project.

Now in my late sixties, I am still learning to surrender to God’s sovereign will. I don’t know when God will call me home, but I do know that I want to use what remains of my time here on earth to serve my Lord with gladness (Ephesians 2:10). Thanks be to God for leading me to Gethsemane BP Church. I pray for His enabling grace to serve as a faithful member in the days to come. 

“Take my life and let it be
consecrated, Lord, to thee.

Take my moments and my days;
let them flow in ceaseless praise,

Take my hands and let them move at the impulse of thy love.

Take my feet and let them be swift and beautiful for thee.”

(Frances R. Havergal)

Zhou YuHeng

I was brought to church at the young age of 5, and have been attending church ever since. While I’d repeatedly prayed the sinner’s prayer in Sunday School, I only trusted Jesus as my Saviour and Lord, and worshipped Him, later on as I grew up. 

I’ve been through church dissolution twice, once in 1997 and then in 2023. I was introduced to a BP church and its teachings after the first church dissolution. It was enriching for me – it felt like I’d never been taught so richly about God’s Word. However, following the abrupt church disbandment in Aug 2023, I felt discouraged and upset; I was unable to commit to another church and went church-hopping instead. During that period, I saw many variants in Bible versions, church practices, teachings, and congregations in those churches I visited – both BP and non-BP. There started to rise within me the conviction that, if I should settle down in a church, it should be yet another BP church. 

Subsequently, I started coming to Gethsemane BPC. I saw that this was a church where I was constantly learning the truths of God’s Word and appreciating God for His faithfulness, goodness and righteousness. Both the pastor and congregation love learning God’s Word so much, that there seem to be a retreat or teaching seminar every other month! I thank God that even though I felt discouraged and demoralised in the months after my previous church’s disbandment, He kept me continuing to go to church even when I didn’t want to commit yet. He did not forsake me in all my years as a Christian, and especially during the past 1.5 years when I didn’t belong to any church. I pray that I will be moved to dedicate my life to serving Him more and more, and that I will strive to be more Christ-like in my ways. Praise the Lord! 

Lena Sim

I was baptized in 1990 in a fundamental church. The church dissolved about a decade later when the pastor passed on without a true successor. Subsequently, I attended a BP church and transferred membership a few years later. Then in the year 2023, with the abrupt disbandment of the church, I started to backslide and church-hop for a few months. Our never-forsaking God has led me to Gethsemane BP Church, with a faithful pastor and dedicated elders, preachers and deacons. 

I thank God for Pastor Koshy who unwaveringly expounded on God’s Word, loud and clear. He never hesitates to give us a listening ear, and is honest and sincere to help the needy. My utmost respect for his “walk-the-talk” attitude. May the Lord continue to bless Pastor Koshy with good health and strength to labour for God’s work without ceasing. 

Ong Lian Heoh (Celeste)

About 30 years ago as I was facing deep struggles of life, I was seeking for a Saviour to depend on. Thank God for using special circumstances to gently stir my heart to go to church. Around this time, my son was enrolled in Trinity Methodist Kindergarten. Each Sunday, I brought him for Sunday worship service for about 2 years. 

Thank God that after some time, the Lord led me to Berean BP Church and then later to Berith BP Church. After 20 overs years in Berith, Pastor Wee was diagnosed with dementia and he was unable to continue his ministry. Members were told to find a like-minded church to worship in. I thank God for leading us to worship in Gethsemane BP Church.

I thank God for Pastor Koshy’s faithful preaching of the Word of God, and that the church is involved in many outreach works in mission fields. I pray that the Lord will bless and preserve Pastor Koshy and his family with good health and strength, as they give themselves to the work of the ministry in Gethsemane Church.

Teo Hock Leong

Before I believed in the Lord Jesus l felt lost and empty, but when I realised and heard what the Lord Jesus had done for me at the cross of Calvary, l prayed to receive Him as my Lord and Saviour – and my life was never the same. Thank God for enabling me to overcome my sinful habits in gambling and now I have a purpose in life and joy I never had before. 

Thank God also for leading us to Gethsemane BP Church when Pastor Wee was diagnosed with dementia. When our church was dissolved, each member was told to find a Bible-believing church to worship in. We are much blessed and encouraged by the preaching of Pastor Koshy, drawing many lessons for our Christian life, which helped us not to walk in our self-imposed blindness. We pray that God will preserve and keep Pastor Koshy strong to preach the Word of God on the pulpit during worship services and in his teaching ministries. May the Lord continue to bless the church’s overseas mission outreaches. May the Lord keep all the families and members of the church in good health and strength as we serve Him. Our heartfelt thanks to the church elders, preachers, deacons and members for extending to us your gracious and warm fellowship.

Transfer of Membership

Daniel Svasti

I accepted the Lord Jesus Christ as my personal Saviour in the early 70’s. It was a time of much confusion and change concerning many doctrines preached in the local churches. Particularly in the doctrine of eschatology and the study of Revelation, where many lessons were being aired and shared in Sunday Schools and various Christian Fellowship groups. But many of these views were incorrect, in the light of what I’ve been enlightened by years later, through faithful Scriptural teachings from Pastor Tow Siang Hwa, Pastor Quek, and Pastor Koshy (cf. 1 Thessalonians 1:10; 4:16-17; 5:9-10).

I also witnessed the shift of many Bible-believing churches turning Charismatic and falling away. Debating with many of my classmates and schoolmates on what the Bible taught was in vain, and I am thankful that our LORD has looked after me through His divine providence all these years. And I am glad that I have received Jesus Christ – the Living One and only begotten Son of God, who was crucified, died, and was buried and whom God raised from the dead on the third day – as my personal Saviour. I take great comfort in God’s continual care and guidance for us: “Now the God of peace, that brought again from the dead our Lord Jesus, that great shepherd of the sheep, through the blood of the everlasting covenant, make you perfect in every good work to do his will, working in you that which is wellpleasing in his sight, through Jesus Christ; to whom be glory for ever and ever. Amen” (Hebrews 13:20-21).

As the days on earth are dwindling to the end, I want to walk circumspectly and redeem the time, for the days are evil (Ephesians 5:15-16). We must be good witnesses to our children and to all whom we meet, and reflect Christ’s love through us. At the same time, we must be vigilant. There will be many false Christs and false prophets (Matthew 24:24). We need to watch out for them as listening to them will lead to death. And I feel strongly that I must earnestly contend for the faith which was once delivered unto the saints (Jude 3), and that the KJV Bible is a faithful translation of God’s true and preserved Word. “For the prophesy came not in old time by the will of man: but holy men of God spake as they were moved by the Holy Ghost” (2 Peter 1:21).

Truly, thanks be unto God for His unspeakable gift (our Saviour and Lord Jesus Christ) [2 Corinthians 9:15]!

Stella Svasti

As I reflect on my journey of faith and how God has redeemed me with His precious blood and saved me from my sins and the curse of the law, I humbly give Him all the praise and honour and glory (1 Peter 1:3). 

I was raised in an idol-worshipping home. But God, in His abundant mercies, moved my mother to send me to a Methodist school, where I started to learn about the Lord Jesus Christ. Then it was a daily affair to have morning devotion, reciting the Lord’s prayer daily and attending weekly ‘Ethics’ lessons, where the love of God was shared through Christian teachers. I realised that the Gospel seed was sown through those devoted teachers, and I am still thankful to the Lord for them. The school had a tradition of devoting 3 days in a year to conduct Religious Emphasis Week (REW), where pastors were invited to preach the Gospel. When I was in Secondary Two, at one of those REW sessions, ending an altar call, I surrendered my life to the Lord, my gracious Redeemer. 

I then searched for churches to attend. Most of my friends attended Methodist churches, and I followed suit. But I did not grow as I did not understand what it meant to follow Christ, and I was not motivated to read and search the Scriptures regularly. After my marriage to Daniel, we attended Wesley Methodist Church, but we found the doctrines diluted, which did not promote Christ of the Bible. 

We subsequently attended the Sunset Gospel Hour (at Calvary Pandan), and heard Pastor Koshy’s preaching. We decided to find out more about Gethsemane BPC, and the Lord guided us to various materials and resources, which we thoroughly enjoyed for our spiritual growth and learning. The teaching and preaching from Gethsemane’s Pastor and preachers are biblical, sound and faithful. Through the teachings in the BP churches, we learnt that the Bible is a divine, personal and meaningful Book, the Greatest Book of all times and ages (Psalm 119:105). When I face challenges, struggles, fears, doubts, or sin and temptation, I will seek the Lord’s wisdom, strength, and help in His Word to overcome them. What joy and privilege to appropriate God’s wonderful promises to help me cope through all the changing scenes of life. He is moulding and guiding me moment by moment, till I see Him face to face.

I am truly grateful to the Lord for this church, for Pastor Koshy and the preachers, the elders, as well as the deacons and staff. Particularly for Eld Choy, Eld Francis, and all those who labour for Christ behind the scenes, in ensuring the Catechism class to be conducted smoothly for our spiritual learning and benefit. The materials of the Catechism class were so well prepared to help us understand the fundamental doctrines of the Christian faith, and to motivate us to read the Word more deeply. May I have the spiritual discipline to love and read His Word, and be a faithful servant. I thank God for this church family’s warm fellowship and kindness. I pray that the Lord will continue to help me to love Him with all my heart, and with all my soul, and with all my mind and also, to love my neighbour as myself (Matthew 22:37-39). Blessed be His Holy Name!

Joan Cheah

I grew up in a Buddhist extended family, where we practised ancestor worship. When I started secondary school, a classmate introduced me to Christianity, and I attended church once. One day, while working overtime, I received an invitation to a Sunday school Bible study. After attending for several months, my life began to change. Through God’s mercy, I became aware of my sinfulness and recognised that only by grace through faith could I find forgiveness and the gift of salvation from God. “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: not of works, lest any man should boast” (Ephesians 2:8-9).

I was longing for something deeper than what the world offered, despite my efforts to find fulfilment in friendships and activities. I started attending church regularly and was inspired by the faith of others. I was baptised on December 25, 1992, marking a turning point in my life. I began reading the Bible, joined various ministries, and found support in my faith journey. I’m immensely thankful to God for His blessings over the past decades. My priorities shifted as I began to value relationships, service, and living out Christ’s love. Though I faced challenges, especially when I got distracted by investments instead of godly pursuits, God’s grace again helped me to refocus and regain my direction, and I held onto His promise in Matthew 6:33, which encourages me to seek Him first. It is only by His grace and mercy that I have experienced growth and learnt to trust God during difficult times.

During the COVID years, I experienced a sudden awakening and understood the true significance of biblical worship. I felt a burden to pray and began visiting various churches, including ARPC @ Bishan, Life BP Church, and Gethsemane BP Church. I thank God for leading me to worship alongside my son, Jeremy, in GBPC. “To every thing there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven” (Ecclesiastes 3:1).

By His grace and mercy, I was able to visit GBPC twice in 2023. I began worshipping there from January 2024, where I received a warm welcome from Pastor Koshy, the elders, preachers, deacons / deaconess, and brothers and sisters in Christ. I was further edified through my involvement in Lions Home ministry and Ladies Fellowship. At GBPC, God’s Word is held in great reverence, encouraging us to respond with a filial fear of Him. I embrace the lessons from the sermons that inspire me to be vigilant to prepare for Christ’s return, and to continually live in a way that reflects His teachings. As His sheep, we follow Him (John 10:27). May His grace sustain me until we meet Him face to face. God willing, I hope to deepen my spiritual life through worship, obedience, studying the Word, prayer, fellowship, and evangelism, in my journey of faith alongside God’s people at GBPC.  All thanksgiving be unto God the Father.

Reaffirmation of Faith

Danielle Lim

I am privileged to be born into a Christian family. From young, I learnt about the Lord Jesus and His Word. My parents raised me with love and support, and I am truly grateful for everything they’ve done for me and how they’ve raised me with the Lord’s help. It wasn’t easy, but the Lord has blessed and guided my family through the ups and downs in life. I’m very grateful for this church, which holds many special memories and moments as I grew up here since I was a baby. 

Proverbs 31:30 – “Favour is deceitful, and beauty is vain: but a woman that feareth the LORD, she shall be praised” – resonates with me as I constantly remind myself what my name means: ‘the Lord is my judge’. Thus, I should not only love Him, but fear Him. I will forever be thankful and grateful towards Him. When I was 9 years old, I asked the Lord to be my Saviour and from then on, He has guided me through thick and thin. He has granted me a good school environment, guided me in selecting my various school activities, and provided me with good Christian friends. Words cannot describe my gratitude for how much He has led me as His child. May God help me to be strong and do my best. I look forward to serving Him with the gifts He has bestowed me with.

Lim Jorim

I thank God for giving me the privilege of growing up in a Christian family. It’s a blessing to be surrounded by Christians since childhood. I thank God for His mercy and grace towards me, to save me from my sins (Ephesians 2:8). Having grown up in Gethsemane, I have been truly blessed to be constantly exposed to the preaching of God’s Word. I also grew in faith and learnt many valuable lessons from GCM, JW and Children’s Bible Study (CBS) as a child, as well as in youth fellowship, in church camps, missionary conferences (and even Tuesday night prayer meetings), from my teenage years. Being in the youth choir also helps me to understand the songs that I sing and to spread the Gospel. 

When I was about 7 years old in primary school, I often broke down due to the fear of being alone in an unfamiliar environment. However, I am thankful for my parents’ constant reminder and encouragement that although they may not be able to be with me every minute of my life, God is always with me, and I should not be afraid. Whenever I feel afraid or alone, I would constantly be reminded of Deuteronomy 31:6. As I matured over the years, this verse was a constant reminder and assurance that God is always with me and will take care of me (even when I am alone), every step of my life. I thank God that I can trust and see His mighty hand working in my life. 

As I continue to grow in my faith and learn from God’s Word, it is my prayer that I will continue to walk closely with God and also be a good testimony for Him. May I be a blessing to others in my life, and remain steadfast in my faith. All glory be to God.

Anna Chong

By the grace of God, my parents have been attending worship services in Gethsemane, which has led me to be able to come to this church since I was a little child. Although I have always participated in the Children’s Ministry classes, and have trusted Jesus Christ as my Saviour and Lord, there were always some things I still did not understand. However, I’m blessed to be able to attend the Catechism Class, which has helped me to have a deeper understanding of God’s Word. I have learnt many Biblical truths concerning God – His wonderful creation, His Holy Book, how we are all born sinners, how we can rely on Him through all difficult circumstances to live a godly life, etc.

The Bible says, “All have sinned” (Romans 3:23), and “There is none righteous, no not one” (Romans 3:10). This has made me realise that I must constantly go to the LORD, seek Him in prayer, and ask for forgiveness for my sins. I have also learnt that God’s Law helps Christians avoid committing sins, as it shows us the path of righteousness and enables us to walk by the Holy Spirit. Thus, I’m minded to do my daily devotion so that I may learn more through His Word daily. We must abide by His commandments, acknowledge our sin when we have done wrong, and stay close to Him always.

Truly, “The law of the LORD is perfect, converting the soul: the testimony of the LORD is sure, making wise the simple. The statues of the LORD are right, rejoicing the heart: the commandment of the LORD is pure, enlightening the eyes. The fear of the LORD is clean, enduring for ever: the judgments of the LORD are true and righteous altogether” (Psalm 19:7-9). May I continue to cherish the countless blessings I receive from the Lord, and bear a good testimony for Him.

(More testimonies of new members next week)

A testimony by Ricky and Stella Yang of God’s saving grace working through their witnessing! 

“Rescue the perishing, Care for the dying,
Snatch them in pity from sin and the grave;
Weep o’er the erring one, Lift up the fallen,
Tell them of Jesus the mighty to save.
Rescue the perishing, Care for the dying;
Jesus is merciful, Jesus will save.”

These words from the hymn echoed in my head as we witnessed, with solemnity and rejoicing, the ordination of one of the preachers at the conclusion of our church’s 7th Missionary Conference on 14 June 2024. The passion for souls and the testimonies from the missionaries to preach Christ even amid oppression and in custody, did not deter or distract them from the call to preach and win some to Christ; they spoke of how these things reminded us of the greater urgency and burden to rescue the perishing and care for the dying, and be truly Proclaimers of Faith “Under Fire” – which was the theme of the Missionary Conference. 

On 17 June 2024, shortly after our return from the Missionary Conference, we received a call that one of our relatives, Mr Louis Lee, was taken to hospital and was in critical condition. With the Missionary Conference messages still freshly imprinted and warmly glowing in our hearts, we visited Mr Lee at the hospital’s Intensive Care Unit. Though Mr Lee was intubated and in discomfort, he was lucid and was able to respond in short breaths and nods. We praise and thank God for the timely treatment he received and, more so, for the timely reminder of the urgency to rescue the perishing and care for the dying. We shared the Gospel message with him and pointed him to Jesus, who is mighty to save. By God’s amazing mercy and grace, Mr Lee readily said, “Amen”, and acknowledged his faith and trust in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation and expressed his readiness for baptism in the presence of his wife, Ailene. We immediately informed Pastor Koshy and he, together with Sis Carolyn and Eld Mah, visited Mr Lee and reaffirmed his faith that evening. It was such a relief to see Mr Lee’s condition stabilised and such a joy to see how his heart has been prepared by the working of the Holy Spirit, especially through times like this, to turn to Jesus Christ. All praise and thanks to God for saving Mr Lee, and for his confession of his faith in Jesus Christ through his baptism at the hospital. 

In our subsequent visits to Mr Lee, initially at the hospital and later at the nursing home, we prayed with him and regularly reminded him of the day he trusted Jesus Christ for salvation. We also learned during these visits of Mr Lee’s deep concern for his daughter, Marilene, who had Stage 4 cancer in her intestines and had been receiving treatments. Mr Lee repeatedly requested that we reach out to Marilene, and we said we would try. We also encouraged him to pray for the salvation of both his wife Ailene and his daughter Marilene.

We attempted to reach Marilene, and the opportunity came when we were informed that she was hospitalised recently in early February 2025. The Lord again reminded us of the call to rescue the perishing. We were so happy to receive a warm and hearty welcome from Marilene when we visited her at the hospital on 22 February. Though in pain and discomfort, Marilene was open to sharing with us the issues and concerns in her heart as she pondered over the uncertainty concerning which treatment option she should take for her cancer. We offered to pray for God’s direction and peace as she considered the options. At the same time, we asked if she would be open to us sharing the Gospel of peace and salvation. Again, through God’s amazing mercy and grace, she readily responded and said she had been considering doing Bible study with her neighbour. Praise the Lord for His perfect working and timing – her heart and soul have been prepared. Clearly and affirmatively, Marilene prayed with us, and confessed her faith in the Lord Jesus Christ! 

“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised him from the dead, thou shalt be saved” (Rom 10:9). What a joy and assurance it was when she also readily expressed her desire for baptism, and encouraged her mother, Ailene, to come to Christ, too!

Marilene’s condition took a sudden turn on 24 February when there was a rupture in her intestine, causing excruciating pain and intense discomfort. Her condition suddenly became critical, and necessitated an emergency surgery that evening. All praise and thanks to God for seeing her safely through her surgery, which thus resolved the burden of the treatment options that were weighing on her heart.

This also impressed upon us the urgency of arranging for her baptism. We arranged for Pastor Koshy and Elder Mah to visit Marilene at the Intensive Care Unit on 25 February, the day after her surgery. Though drowsy in the morning, she was alert and responsive when Pastor and Eld Mah visited that evening. Though the plan was to affirm Marilene’s faith in Jesus Christ and conduct her baptism, what a happy day and double joy it was when Ailene also opened her heart to the Gospel’s call and expressed her desire for salvation in Jesus Christ and baptism. All glory be to God for His redeeming grace through the precious blood of Jesus Christ! Mother and daughter were baptised in Marilene’s hospital that evening.

“O happy day that fixed my choice, On Thee, my Savior and my God!
Well may this glowing heart rejoice And tell its raptures all abroad.
 Happy day, happy day, When Jesus washed my sins away!
He taught me how to watch and pray, And live rejoicing every day;
Happy day, happy day, When Jesus washed my sins away!”

Salvation is indeed of the Lord. Through His marvellous and providential working and perfect time, salvation has been brought to Louis, Ailene and Marilene in these trying times and on beds of afflictions. Please continue to pray for the Lee household, that the joy of the Lord and the sufficiency of His grace may be their strength through this trying season and in their growth in the grace and knowledge of Jesus Christ.

All glory and praise to God! May the Lord be pleased to use us to “rescue the perishing”, “care for the dying”, and “tell them of Jesus the mighty to save”.