26 Sept 08,
Dear Administrator,
I have read the articles & Comments posted over the last week, and wish to respond as follows :
KUDOS to DKAY (2sen worth of Opinion posted 16 Sept 08)
Kay, I wish more will ask the questions you did (a-f). All that you said
and asked made so much sense—it showed clear understanding of the
real issues we are confronting and what indeed is at stake:
“displaying high integrity in attitude, behavior and actions is the one expression that shows everyone - we belong to Christ.”
I commend your direct to the point questions & comments. Sorry, if I had been one of those who “were not direct enough ” ( at EGM) in posing our concerns & questions. Nevertheless, I did write a 14 Pg ‘Unanswered Questions at EGM’ posted in the Blog, which I believed I have asked very direct questions and given frank views.
)Unfortunately neither the BOD nor Sr.Pastor-CEO would give any answer, not even to a single question! (But non-reply it seems is a policy, it was the same for all previous Letters I have written in which no answer to any question was ever given)
Your so called ‘2sen worth’ -- on the contrary is a gem of a contribution. In fact I hope what you shared would be able to open the eyes of those who are still not able to grasp the actual issues, to see clearly what concerned Calvarites are pursuing.
By the way, I would strongly urge you to send it as is to the BOD & SR. Pastor-CEO & all pastors directly via email or by post. ( Because, they are likely to miss reading it here)
I would like to highlight the few thoughts you shared, which in every sense & intent are exactly the views I & those sincerely who are pressing on for this cause, have about them. Quote:
“d) CIM - I find the matter of the "seed fund" a very strange matter. Personally, Sr Ps and Ps Peter have told BCM students year in and year out that we are called by God and that we live by faith. That when we are called to do what we destined to do, we depend on God and HE will provide for us. We have been told that we are not to look to the church and depend on it to support us. The money that is given from faith promise to support us is minimal so that we might learn to live by faith.”
“Honestly, I struggled with great mental "dissonance" when I heard Sr Ps's reply because what he has said to BCM students and what he is doing for CIM is entirely different.”
“The money was given away in "secrecy" simply because of the failure of the BOD to check with the members if the members were ok with gift. So, in principle - it is a tainted gift - faulty in the name of integrity. The monies should all be returned to the Church accounts.”
“For me, right now, my pastor has a "money" issue. I am really sorry but I can't help but see him as clinging on to a gift, one that are not supported by members. Even if there just be 800 or 2000 voices against this gift - is that not already the shrieking siren of bells for a servant of God that all is not right?”
( It appears more than money issue to me, it’s covetousness: the latest Calvary News 3-pg advertisement says a lot.)
“If Sr Ps believes that GOD will supply all his needs and walks the talk, then I hope that Sr Ps will let this money go.”
“And since Ps Wirachai Kowae's name was mentioned at the EGM, let me say that his ministry - Compassion of Christ - is so different from what our BOD have done for CIM. Compassion of Christ survives on its own.”
(I’m so glad you bought up this fact. I feel indignant how BOD could bring themselves to compare white with black. I do not wish to *elaborate here, but enough is said how church funds have been used to make the latter look good.)
SETTING UP OF A TRUTH COMMISSION
(An extract from Unanswered Questions)
The questions raised herein merely touches the surface of the serious issues the church faces, and are by no means exhaustive. There is just too much to ask since the issues go way back in years. And whatever has been discovered to date is just the tip of the iceberg. Besides CIM, other major issues surrounding CCC and Calvary Land, such as their financial and ownership status among others, need thorough investigation too.
What has been covered under the scope of Mr. KK Wong and the forensic accountants was limited in scope, and the former was not investigative in nature. *There are many people within and without who possess material information and firsthand knowledge, and can be asked to testify and reveal facts on the various issues.
Hence, the proposed setting–up of a TRUTH COMMISSION is essential. Until the church comes clean with the truth and not sweep matters under the carpet or simply whitewash them, Calvary Church cannot claim nor can expect to be a good testimony to the community.
It is simply untenable for the church to remain in its present state.
WHAT DO WE DO WANT FROM ALL CONCERNED MEMBERS?
1.Would you sign-up for the call to set up the TRUTH COMMISSION ?
2. Would you sign-up for the REVIEW of CHURCH CONSTITUTION?
3. Would you Sign-up for the *Stipends and Benefits of the Pastorial Board
to be made known?
* the Stipends/EPF /Socso as stated in 2007 Report stands at RM 2,870,602
(and this excludes the EXTENDED MINISTRIES’ i.e. the Head of Department
& their staff account for another approx RM500,000.
The total would be over RM3.3 MILLION.
Liza Low
49 comments:
Wow! Calvary Church is a gold mine! Like someone has said, "It's where the money is at!"
Unfortunately, because of this abundance of money pouring into the treasury, thieves will also be drawn to the church coffers, like flies!
yes to all 3 questions.
Dear Family Members of Calvary Church Kuala Lumpur,
Allow me to humbly introduce myself, my name is Kelvin T.L. Lim. I am a pastor serving the Lord down south in Johor Bahru.
I first received the Lord Jesus Christ into my life and confess Him as my Lord and Savior way back in May, 1986, and as a teenager I’ve spend a great measure of time growing-up in Calvary Church Kuala Lumpur (CCKL). I was actively involved with the ministries of the church such as the Royal Rangers, the Christ’s Ambassadors, the College Ministry, served as a Carpenter’s Workshop teacher, enrolled with AIM and participated with a number of the church’s Easter and Christmas presentations. I was also send as a mission worker to Calvary Church Bintulu, Sarawak in February, 1997. Upon completing my missions’ term I came back to the Peninsula in 1999, and in obedience I felt the Lord’s leading to moved down south later that year.
It has come to my knowledge and understanding of the ‘SAGA’ that is currently continuing in CCKL, and I applaud the concerned brothers and sisters of the Teh Tarik (fellowship/crew/group) for taking the steps and measures to address the issues within the church. It is always good to know that there are those who would champion a cause. I am in agreement that Senior Pastor’s actions and even his behavior are in doubt and the manner the EGM was held is questionable. I am fully compassionate for the ‘Family Members’ of CCKL, and I know that you love the Lord and ‘HIS’ church. However, I am also deeply concerned that the original intentions of setting-up this blog may have gone astray. Looking at the title and subtitle of the blog page: CALVARY TODAY by Concerned Calvarites, for Concerned Calvarites of Calvary Church, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The very intentions are to express your concerns, disagreements and suggestions on the blog, but when accountability is concern… some have remained anonymous… while some have been transparent. I am for greater accountability and transparency within the church, but my dear brothers and sisters let also employ the same expectation within ourselves with truth, discipline and an act of responsibility when/while making or leaving a comment on the page/blog. As I plead with you my dear brothers and sisters to take great accountability… may we all be gently reminded that each and every one of us will be held accountable for our actions, behavior and speech before our Lord Jesus Christ.
I would encourage the body of Christ to take a peaceable position… seeking the Lord for His intervention, will and purposes for this ‘SAGA’. Senior Pastor may not always proceed by doing the right thing, but at that very moment he may have deem it fit to do so. He is also the senior pastor of one of the biggest church in the country… I guess that would make him a spiritual prime target for the devil our adversary. Once, the given responsibility of the shepherd of the church is spiritual threaten... let us prepare ourselves to embrace a spiritual domino effect… because we are the Body of Christ, we will be affected. When we react… there are consequences to our actions. We will begin… in no particular order to gossip, to respond negatively in anger, bitterness or resentment, creating disunity and disharmony, stumbling others within the body, etc… but above all else, with no malicious intend on our part (without realization)… shaming the ‘AWESOME’ name of our Lord Jesus Christ before other churches and fellow believers and to our unbelieving society. Our beloved church has built an excellent (though not perfect) reputation with our society over the years, and trusts me when I say that there are those among us who have already spoken in an irresponsible manner publically.
My upmost desire is to see the Lord glorified in this ‘SAGA’, and that healing and restoration to take place almost immediately. Let everything be done in a manner worthy of Christ Jesus. Remember my beloved brothers and sisters, as put by some in the blog that the church does not belong to Senior Pastor… let us remind ourselves that the ‘HEAD’ of the ‘BODY’ is the Lord Himself. We are in His Kingship and Lordship… ‘CALVARY CHURCH KUALA LUMPUR’ belongs to Him. The church is His concern. Let us make our decision now and take the position that He is calling us to. If peacefully you came and attend ‘HIS’ church… having had a wonderful experience with Him, then if you so desire to move-on… then move-on peacefully too. If you desire to stay-on, then show allegiance unto the Lord that is worthy of His name sake.
3Rs… Real, Realistic & Relevant!
Kelvin T.L. Lim
Dear Pastor Kelvin,
What a great sharing, truly from the heart. Praise God!
Yes, at the end of it all, let all things work for good and His name be glorified.
God bless.
Hi Pastor Kelvin,
I remember you. In fact, we have served the Lord together on several occassions. I was happy to hear that you have become a pastor, many years ago.
I do understand where you are coming from. However, in view of the fact that you are so far away perhaps you do not know certain details of the situation which has caused this 'fiasco' in the church.
Once again I stress that the TT crew are all matured,and God-fearing, senior members of Calvary. They are not doing this to cause trouble. This blog was only started after the EGM, where the matters at hand were 'brushed aside,' or 'twisted' by S.P. & the BOD, truth was suppressed, & those who wanted to speak out to resolve the issue were given the 'cut-off' signal by S.P. This is a "different" S.P. from the one whom you used to know many years ago! He is no longer 'shepherd' of God's people but CEO!
Many attempts have been made by the TT crew for the past nine to ten months to resolve the issue. A petition for the removal of S.P., signed by 100-over church members, was conveniently disposed of, either by S.P. or the BOD. Lies were the order of the day. S.P.'s absolute & dictatorial control of the church, the BOD, & the other pastors have to be seen to be believed!
Those who are disgruntled by the situation do not want to leave the church, for obvious reasons, that is, they have to STAY in order to save the church from further corruption - this was what S.P. wanted them to do (to leave), so many were the times that he had preached from the pulpit that these who oppose him should either jump in the lake or leave the church! Perhaps he wanted to be left alone to continue to siphon-off MORE of the missions funds.
I wanted to reply to Pastor Kelvin but now I dont have to. Fairplay has put it very well.
Pastor Kelvin,
Yes, I know you when you were a teenager, and boy, you sure have grown up and now serving the Lord. Praise our Lord for your life!
Personally, I want to see church leaders, not necessarily from CC, but within the AG fraternity to resolve the issue internally. Sad to say, none "dare" lest they offend the General Superintendent Emeritus of the AG, or worse still, to be told off by SP that "he knows what to do".
Well, Pastor Kelvin, you can try to speak to him, but I doubt he will listen (although at times he may say “Kelvin, I hear you loud and clear”). Sometimes I wonder, yes I really wonder, whether he even listens to God (to “hear” is obviously very different from to “listen”…we may hear God but can still choose NOT TO LISTEN TO HIM). That’s the trouble with many of us.
God bless.
Dear Kelvin,
The Word of God exhorts us to "expose the fruitless deeds of darkness" (Ephesiana 5:11), and I believe that there is a time and place for such a ministry. Sad, to say, these deeds of darkness are even now existing & prevalent in the church that we all love. Thus, God have raised up the TT crew for such a time as this, to expose the works of darkness in His beloved church. Judgment must indeed begin in the house of God.
"For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person - such a man is an idolater - has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God." (Ephesians 5:5)
Sad to say, there are idols in the church, & idolaters who seek after their own interests. Sad to say, S.P. & his missus, the other pastors, & the BOD have lost their fear of God.
Dear Liza,
Thanks for suggesting that I should write in personally to SP and BOD. However, I have to decline for the main reason that I am just an Associate member - which means that I have no voting rights and I am not sure that my questions will be considered at all.
Now, if I was a Voting member - the BOD and SP would consider my questions - I think that they will acknowledge that as a voting member ,I have the "right to heard".
Mind you, I must explain that I was once a Voting member but was automatically downgraded to Associate member, in keeping with the Membership policies of the church, because I was called to Bible School. The reason given was that I may not be in church anymore - since God may call me out of the church to external fields of work. This explanation is acceptable to me. Of course, I was also told that upon completion of my studies, I was welcome to reapply for reinstatement to a Voting member.
I have not - because my personal view is this. If I am downgraded just because God called me to Bible School, then I leave Bible School and still in church - I should be automatically reinstated to Voting member. Anyhow, my personal conviction on the matter is this - if God called me to Bible School and as a result, my membership status changed so I will leave it to God to reinstate me. Besides, in the light of all things eternal, membership in Gpd's Family and to Heaven is more important than membership status in a church which I consider temporal and man-made and present for organizational purpose.
So, for all reading this, I have no issue or quarrel with the church on my membership status.
I am merely explaining my reason of why I have not and will not write in my questions to BOD and SP. The explanation of my membership status is to preempt any possible thoughts that I write because I have a bone to pick with the church. I do not and in fact appreciate many of CC pastors, who have prayed with me and supported me through my years in the church.
Nevertheless, if there be any Voting member (not in the TT Group) who feels the same way - you are welcome to use my words and ask the questions. Yet, I do not given permission to anyone to use my illustrations, etc - simply because they were words that were directly spoken to me and must remain my responsibility. To be used by another is already hearsay and I think that it is not proper to be rehashed as queries and directed to SP and BOD to answer.
As for the three questions that you have posed to Concerned Calvarites, as one, I am not able to respond with support at this point of time.
This is because I think that you will need to spell out more concrete details on the who, what, why and how of the Truth Commission first, so that I may understand exactly what goals that you and the TT Group hope to achieve.
In other words, we need further education - not only the purpose but the action plans of the Truth Commission.
And a reader did say that "BOD, SP and pastors" should not be part of this Truth Commission. Then, who will be part of this group - what will be the criteria that determines that the findings are just and accountable? Who will arbitrate if there are indeed "wrongs" present?
Personally, to support or not support a call or a plan for action - it is very important to make an "informed" decision that is based on facts, directions and goals of that call or plan.
God bless
Diana
Hi everyone,
My wife suggested that we write to SP's brader, Rev. Robert Lim, about SP's misdeeds. I told her tt Robert may punch us for it, but she said, "why don't we give it a try". Any views out there in cyber space???
Looks like Wife's Sidekick did not attend Calvary Church when Rev. Robert Lim was invited to speak in our church not too long ago.
There were a few things which he said that should not have been said from a Pastor in the church. I dont want to say those things here but just talk to any of the TT members and you will know.
So dont waste your time writing to him.
I dont want to say more.
Sorrylah brader YTF. Maybe I was asleep when Rev. Robert preached recently. Must keep my wife informed. Maybe her idea is not so good after all. Who shall we write to then? With RPK under ISA, who else?
Wife's Sidekick,
It's ok then.
Dear Diana,
You and me, we r in d same boat. Got re-categorized as Assoc. Member because we go to BCM. After graduation, they asked me to re-apply and when I did, they told me I had to attend MY FAITH class. At that time I did not know if I should cry or laugh. Know why? ...
I was an SCG teacher who have have taught MY FAITH classes for many terms before. To them there was a difference between sitting on a chair and listening to the lessons and standing in front teaching the lessons.
I share the same emotions as you now, they may say that it is because of this, I have a bone to pick with them. To me what categogy I'm in is not important.They tell me it is not important. I am still allowed to tithe, give Faith Promise, only cannot VOTE.
I stick to my principles, if they re-categorized me without informing me before hand. (I had to find out from the list posted on the board)They should re-categorized me without my re-application.
Just a little history of myself, I was a member of Calvary Church since 1977. Have never been to another church except for ministry. Have been involved in lay ministry since 1982 till I finally stepped down from teaching SCG classes last year, because of personal convictions.
Should I attend MY Faith class just so that I can be re-categorised as Voting again?
Karen Tai.
Karen & Diana,
Mana boleh macam ini. It's akin to a Malaysian citizen, with voting rights (ie, 21 & above), goes off to study in Australia. He is informed by the authorities that he has to give up his citizenship and be a PR. And when he graduates and returns to Malaysia, he can reapply to be a citizen again.
Tak masuk akal langsung. Just can't understand. Can someone in CC membership committee (or ex-member) explain the logic? Memang beh tahan!
Dear Administrator
Is it possible to make the background for your beritacalvary.blog a different color. The green is very bad and straining to our old tired eyes.
Trying changing it to a lighter color and make the font black to stand out.
Terima Kaseh - much appreciated.
Hi Beh Tahan. You may have to tahan a bit more than you think. There are alot of things that you do not know. Membership, pay to serve, funeral and wedding services entitlement, etc. The list is too long. We need a total revamp.
Whatever it is, dont leave the church. We need to put things right.
It's so sad that even membership in the church has so much red tape to it. I hope the membership dept won't try to find ways to also downgrade the rest of us 'rebellious' voting members into associates :(
Is not the best way for this to be handled to go to the Assembles of God General Council and ask them to resolve this?
Listen carefully before replying.
There have been half truths on both sides....and I am being polite. Some of the Teh Tarek group conjectured unsubstantiated things to me which could be construed as "lies". It is unlikely I am the only one they told these things to, and therefore they have no-moral credibility for many of us in the church. The thought of these people having any sway in church matters when they have not been honest is worse to us than Snr Pastor misusing money.
As far as that is concerned...there is no evidence he and his wife have been on $10,000 shopping sprees (I was told this by a core Teh Tarik member!) and having seen Snr Pastors heart for many years, there is a consistency of blessing Gods work. calvary church has a strong emphasis ongiving money rather than people to missions, but one without the other does not work. many churches give people but have no money to support them. Calvary s the opposite. We cannot all be one part of the body, and calvary seems to be a part which is different as we actually give MILLIONS to missions. I have been in many churches through out the world, and the level of giving in Calvary is trememndous. We do NOT KNOW SNR PASTORS heart. What if he decides to use the money to bless churches throughout the world via CIM? By giving to the Lord WE reap the blessings of this money being sown.
For us to judge him without damning evidence is dangerous. To date nothing has been presented that can be taken as gross sin. Do we no longer believe that God is judge, and God will vindicate?
I realise many of you cannot rest. After every church service you are gathered in groups discussing the sermons and how they may be construed as an attack on you. So much time is wasted in this speculation.
You should act HUMBLY. Humility would dictate that you acknowlege you may be wrong. It does NOT matter whether Snr pastor is humble or not in this...come in the opposite spirit. Gather ALL of your evidence together, and present it to the general council. Ask them to examine it, behind clsed doors with you and the pastoral team of Calvary, and abide by the decisions made.
Anything else looks like rebellion, does not repair the split in church fellowship, and draws many disgruntled to your cause, thereby murkying the whole purpose of you mission. BTW drawing numbers at all costs must not be your goal. Disgruntled people are people who harbour unforgiveness and bitterness, as evidenced by some of the posts in this public blog. This is how Satan works....rule of the mob
And if after all of that the General Council agree with you, you are vindicated, the church will abide by the decision as things are done in proper order. Snr pastor will be left with some tough decisions.
I think "A peacable spirit' is rather naive to think that SP may have the intention to bless the churches in the world through CIM. First you must ask how the money was transacted or transferred. This is not another Robin Hood story. Secondly if you know how church handles money, you will know that your suggestion will definitely not come to pass.
Secondly about asking AG to help to intervene. I think the TT group has done that but without much avail and the reasons I shall not reveal here.
dear peaceable spirit,
You are surely speaking out of gross ignorance, not to mention lying through your teeth as well (as seen by this statement you made)...
"For us to judge him without damning evidence is dangerous. To date nothing has been presented that can be taken as gross sin."
The accounts have been presented here on this blog for all to see....isn't this enough evidence for you? If, in the corporate world, S.P. would be hauled up by the A.C.A. for money-laundering and/or criminal breach of trust!
Hi peaceable spirit,
I'm not part of the TT group, but having read your comments, I have to respond for fairness sake.
Please do not call your goodself "peaceable spirit" when you also judge the TT group without knowing the actual facts and efforts by them. They had tried to resolve matters through the AG Council but say to say, they were of little help.
Please tell the TT group what to do next, I mean, workable action plan. I want to see matters resolved and so do the TT group members.
God bless.
To: A Peaceable Spirit,
As mentioned by YTF, I also heard that the TT Group has tried talking to the AG General Council and if I’m not mistaken, their stand on this was a neutral one as they rather see such church issues be handled and sorted out within the church itself rather than them having to step in (TT Group, do correct me if I’ve got my facts wrong on this)
As for ‘we not knowing Snr Pastor’s heart’, the bible clearly says that out of the abundance of the heart speaketh the mouth, and based on some of the sermons preached by him condemning those who question, I think we can pretty much see what is inside his heart. A person who asks his sheep to go jump into the lake as well as tell those who do not ‘agree’ with his teachings/actions to just leave the church DOES NOT have a shepherd’s heart. As for your question on what if he decides to use the money to bless churches throughout the world via CIM? I think you’re missing the point. No one is objecting to our church funds being used to bless churches. The point is, why does it need to be done through CIM – a personal ministry? Why can’t Calvary Church bless these churches directly? Are there any ulterior motives in him doing this through CIM instead of through the church? Also, the part on Calvary giving millions to missions, let’s also question why is it that our funds are not used to help local poorer churches who really need them but instead a big chunk is channeled to churches in USA? I have raised this issue before in another one of my comments under another post .
Fair enough that you have reminded everyone to act humbly, but I hope you will also go up to Sn Pastor and ask HIM to act humbly too. He is after all the leader of the church and many of us are looking up to him as an example, so if he does not act humbly, it is rather hard for us to do otherwise.
To Non TT Member,
I concur with you TOTALLY.
Yes, we ought to act humbly but we also LONG for SP to also ACT HUMBLY too. For instance, serve communion together with the rest of communions servers and other pastors. Christ did more than that - he washed his disciples' feet. This is truly the true heart of a shepherd.
Leadership by example. Walk the talk.
Hello A Peaceable Spirit and the rest of concerned members.
Sometime ago, I happened to watch a world cup football match. It was Brazil and another African country. The Brazilians had a scripture verse on their jerseys, so naturally, I sided them. Then I realised that the other team also knelt & prayed. Since then, I always ask GOD, "Whose side r u on?"
I think we r in that situation now. We r all God's children, saved and cleansed by His blood.So whose's side is God on?
I can't remember who won, but does that mean God is NOT FOR THE LOSING TEAM? Whose side is He on?
He is on both sides. I learned this truth from my 2 girls. When they fight and come running to me, each with their reasons why the other is naughty, I listen to both sides. I believe that our Heavenly Father is listening to both sides now.
As a mother, if it was a small issue, I send them off to work it out themselves or I will punish both.They usually will settle things themselves. However, if it is a serious matter, then I will separate them and talk to them individually. Usually, I require more from the older one but I also insist that the younger accept whatever decisions that the older makes. I believe that God has already taken each one of us aside and spoken to us individually. What He said, only we individually will know.
Whose side is God on? Both!!! God has a lesson for the older one (SENIOR P)and He has a lesson for the younger ones (the rest of us).
What about the loser? In God's family, there is no winner or loser. Just as in our own little Lim or Tan or Wong or Rajan's family, there are no winners or losers because we r all FAMILY. There r ONLY LESSONS that we must learn and OBEY.
While it is good to have people correct us when we say wrong things, I am very interested to know who you r, A Peaceable Spirit. Because you mentioned that a core TT member told you stories, I want to know who that TT Member is. BTW that story was related by one close friend of Sis. Petrina's and she also shared this testimony to some ladies. I won't elaborate but look out for me and talk to me personally.
Karen Tai
"Non TT member" is right. There are so many AG churches in the country that needs help but CC rather helps churches in US or overseas. Why? How come?
I personally knows that there is a small AG church in Kuching that gave up his rented place for the church services because the pastor cannot afford the rent anymore and has to share with another church. Are we so ignorant and indifferent to the local needs of ours? Some more want to build a RM200 to RM300 million church with the objective of saying we want to tell the whole world about Christ. I doubt so.
Lets do some simple arithmetics here. The land cost for the CCC is estimated to be RM35 million. SP has been telling its members that the church building will cost RM100 excluding RM50 million for the fixures, fittings and others. I think the earthworks and foundation cost was about RM12 million. Consultants fee is RM6 million. So a total of RM203 million.
And that was before the oil price went up where the cost of steel bars and cement also went up. It will at least increase the cost by a minimum of 20 %. So another RM20 million extra easily.
Honestly I dont think the church building with its current design can be constructed at a cost of RM100 million. I can dare say that it will cost an additional RM50 million. Hence a total of RM273 million!!!!!
This may be guess work but you can mark my word provided they dont built only part of the church or build in two or three stages.
All in all, it is going to be a RM300 million church. Who will benefit from this? More Malaysians will come to know Christ? Do we bring people to Christ by showing them a new big and fantastic church building or do we tell them of Christ's love for us?
I really wonder.
Terima Kaseh Administrator for changing the background color of the beritacalvary.
Phew! Now we can finish reading the articles. We had to stop half way most of the time.
God Bless!
Dear Diana,
I absolutely agree with you that anyone who needs to make a decision, must ensure he/she has to be well informed.
In this regard, saying Yes to the 3 proposed items is merely to indicate the support for the NEED to establish them. Following this, I reckon, first a Task Force would have to be formed to look into the details--the Task Force may not necessarily be the PANEL members of the Truth Commission. Panels Members will, apart from being highly regarded, ought to be Qualified & Competent to take on the awesome responsibilities.
It is not something that can be tabled in a blog. I just want you to know we are certainly aware of proper procedures/terms of reference, Congregation notified, etc, etc. I hope your query on this point has been adequately clarified.
MEMBERSHIP
What you shared is not surprising. There are so many cases of the same, only different excuses were given. Membership in the Church is just one of the many areas where the church leadership has used for **power control. In fact, its 'rule/policies' are at the whim & fancy of the those in authority. Depending 'who' is applying, the person can either go 'fast-track ' or go through the mill; accepted by the decree of those in power, or made to clear the red tape one by one. It has been abused.
(Of late, I learned that they are actively recruiting worshippers to be Members, and Up- grading Associate Members too. ( Albeit, on selective basis) Well, quite a change--It sure isn't as difficult as it used to be. This time it’s them who are proactive too).
**Has anyone ever wonder, why for a church that is 47 years old, there are less than 1,000 who are Members? Indeed, CC membership must be the most coveted church membership to have in the world in any categories—consider the fact that a person can attend the church & even serve faithful for over decades, and still not admitted as Members. CC Membership must also be the toughest and most peculiar ( one example, yours & Karen’s case) It surpasses even what God requires of us to become His children—which takes only a sinner’s prayer and almost in an instant.
However, as Christians we know that as JOINT HEIRS with CHRIST, is the ultimate. Honestly, this CC Restrictive Membership should be done away with-- I think it is DISCIPLESHIP that matters.
I'm a young person of the church, and i have to say that it's just SO irritating and frustrating to see church members like 'peaceable spirit' etc accept SP at face value!
I might be young but i think i'm able to judge for myself at my age already.
I have always asked my leaders why we don't give more to our local churches, instead we always give to overseas. Our local churches are struggling to survive and at Calvary, we live luxuriously in airconditioned services, big houses and everything.
I'm young and yet i see it like that without ANYONE telling me anything..
Dear fchen,
Praise the Lord! You are so clever, at this young age without anyone telling you anything, you are able to differentiate what is right or wrong already. Unlike some people here so old also cannot see whats right or wrong explained also dont understand, understand also dont accept, aih...anyway, my dear, you dont worry, all the uncles and aunties here will take good care of the problems and God will help them to resolve the matters soon. By the way this blog is SG18, that means if you are not 18 years old and above you cannot come in, its no good for you you know. So go enjoy your computer games now. God blees you.
Dear Diana, simple housewife & Liza,
You've brought out a most crucial point. Joining Calvary Church is like joining an exclusive club - to be a member of Calvary is like 'striking lottery'! Makes me wonder why?
And why is it that joining BCM as a student causes a 'voting member' to be demoted to 'associate member'? Is it because Calvary does not approve of its members studying at BCM? Are the members penalised for wanting to grow spiritually? Or are they being seen as a threat to S.P.& his evil attempt to 'control the church' to his own advantage?
The less voting members, the less chances he will have in being 'voted out'!
Dear Oldie,
Your are most welcome. It is nice to know that there are people reading the articles on BeritaCalvary.
Please do let us know if you have any more problems. We also welcome suggestions so that we can improve. We over here are not far away from being an "oldie" ourselves - but Praise God still young at heart and am now learning to blog like the young people.
We may not always reply but rest assured we are reading every word expressed here - whether good or bad, favourable for us or not. We will do what we can and reply if there is a need to.
We have not answered some questions posed by readers because we will be writing another Update soon which will be an answer to those queries or suggestions given.
We are still debating as to whether we should reveal to you, concerned members, everything we have done - who we have already written to, who we have already seen and spoken to and who we will be seeing next.
So like someone said, keep tuning in to find out.
Most importantly, FAST & PRAY for our church. We have joined hands in Prayer for our church, with an ex-Calvarite who is now a Prayer Warrior for our nation.
God Bless.
To Questions Said, I think it is the later. Definitely. A great army general who can see the future. To minimise enemies or threat to one's position.
To: Calvary Today
Thank you for starting this blog to enlighten us naive folks on what has really been happening in the church.
I appreciate your efforts to update us and am interested in knowing what the latest updates are as frankly, I am getting pretty tired of this whole saga which has dragged on long enough. If only the BOD would make a stand and stop being yes men, if only Sn Pastor would humble himself and repent, then our beloved church would not have to keep suffering like this, so much so that many of us have no choice but to vent our frustrations/opinions online. If only...
Since the October deadline is drawing closer.....may I offer my last 2-sen worth?
I have been on the nominating committee before. This experience has opened my eyes to see & know how S.P., 'controls' who will be nominated to the BOD. Those whom he knows or suspects will be a "pain in the neck to him" will be eliminated during the private sessions with each on the nominating committee. He is a very sly man. This way, he will ensure that the BOD will be "yes men/women," & this has certainly proved to be true in this present SAGA.
Now as I reflect on all this, I realise that S.P.had everything planned, to 'cover his tracks.' From the nominating of the BOD, to the shredding of the minutes of every BOD meeting, to the number of 'voting members' allowed into the list.
Hallelujah. Finally we have a member who was in it and have seen how things are done in the nominating committee. So you can imagine all the other things that he is capable of. Just read the constitution and you will see how strongly it leans towards the SP. If the constitution is not revamped, all our future SPs will have the same power.
Thanks True Story for coming out in the open.
Dear YTF,
I have struggled much with this, whether to reveal this in a public forum or not. But for the sake of resolving this issue, I have 'come out into the open.'
All in the nominating committee were 'not allowed' to communicate with each other, as everything was supposed to be SP&C. It did make sense then, so we have always faithfully & obediently kept to the rules. Now I know that it is all S.P.'s way of controlling the nominations. We don't even know who the other committee members had nominated. S.P. then would later produce a list of nominations purportedly nominated by the nominating committee!
Dear True Story,
Like that also can-ah! SP's so powerful ad manipulative. Got to get him out before he does more harm. But d trouble is he's got so many yes-man and women with him on BOD, Missions, etc. God have mercy on us!
Dear True Story,
I praise God for you. I know that he picks the nominating committee but I didnt know that this is how he operates. Where did he get his 'intelligence and smartness' from? From the way you said it, it means that the list is actually his list 'cos the committee never discuss about them at all. What a great idea he has?
I wonder how else he does things in other matters of the church.
True Story, I must say that you have finally spoken because the Holy Spirit has been prompting you and you must have felt so much better now. If not, I can imagine how you will suffer with that knowledge that you have. Probably cannot sleep or eat well, 'cos you are always thinking about it.
Praise God. The Truth is beginning to reveal and rule in CC!!
Dear YTF,
Thank you for yur encouragement. Yes, I do feel better now, having unloaded this burden here on this blog.
Indeed, S.P. is very intelligent, to give him the credit that is due to him. Unfortunately, he used his intelligence to seek his own interests.
This is his modus operandi:
Those who have been selected to be in the nominating committee would receive a call from his secretary to attend a meeting with S.P. On the day of the meeting, we would see who the others are - these would be all leaders of the church. At this meeting, S.P. then lays down the guidelines for the nominations: taken from 1 & 2 Timothy. We are advised to be prayerful & to choose wisely.
Then we are instructed to submit our list of nominations to the secretary PRIVATELY & SEPERATELY, within a specific time-frame; no discussions or communication with one another is allowed, as it has to be STRICTLY SP&C.
Later, each of us would be called to have a private meeting with S.P. individually, at different times, on different days perhaps. So, at these private meetings, one-to-one, with no witnesses, S.P. then tells each one of the committee why certain names which we have submitted are not suitable. For an example, I may have 7 names on my list: A,B, C, D, E ,F, G...to me, these 7 meet the criteria of leadership requirements. Then S.P. would tell me why B, E, & G are not suitable. His reasons did not really make much sense, but out of respect for him, as our S.P., I would submit to his decision to eliminate the three. All I know is only 4 out of my 7 nominations are accepted by S.P. to be on the nomination list.
Who the others have nominated, how many did they nominate, I wouldn't know at all.
After having met with each one of us privately & confidentially, he would then later produce a list & said that it was our nominations. The 4 from my list would be on that list, though - cos he had already shortlisted them. The rest of the nominees, I wouldn't know whether they were nominated by the others or not.
But we accept it all by faith, as a true compilation of the full list of our nominated candidates. After all, he is our S.P., a man of God, & we had no reason to suspect anything fishy, right?
True Story has revealed how our church system works. It was quite shocking to know how nominations for deacons work.
We need more revelations of what goes on inside from people who are involved so that we can concur what we believe had led to the present saga in the church.
However, just please state your experience but do not share your opinion or judgement on anyone. Let the Lord be the one to have His opinion and judgement.
Dear True Story,
Glad to hear that you are feeling much better. The Truth shall set you free. Now you know why the church administration needs to be revamped. Now I know why you called yourself TRUE STORY.
I am so concerned for the young people of the church. Without young people knowing the Lord well in their young days will mean the church will be dead in future. Worst still, the young people may not be with the Lord in the future.
I had the privilege of being a Christ's Ambassador during my young days, and I can see how the Lord has blessed so many who were together with me during those days.
Before the church constitution was totally revamped in the eighties, it was required in the original constitution that SP's term normally can only be continued in the church every two years where approval or ratification is required from the church members. Now it has changed to one where the SP does not have a retirement age. Can you imagine that?
Lets continue to pray for the church and not be disappointed. Lets not leave the church which is the easiest thing to do and thats is exactly what SP wants us to do.
Dont do that. Are you going to leave the young people to drown without even extending your hand to pull them up?
Yes, plse do keep the young people in prayer.
We are deeply affected by this whole thing and we feel so helpless.
When will this truly end?
So sick of what's happening.
So many youths are not coming for CA's anymore and we just dun know what to do.
Keep us in prayer.
Dear true story,
Thanks for sharing your personal experience. I truly appreciate it. I sincerely hope more of our brothers and sisters whom have served in the nominating committee to share their personal experiences as well. It's always good when someone who have "been there" to concur a particular experience or news. That carries more weight.
Looking into the current structure of the church constitution, personally, it must definitely be reviewed. I hope the church would be open and sincere into looking at improving the constitution, for the benefit of all. Based on the sharing from Mr. KK Wong, the lawyer, during the EGM, the church BOD has "absolute power" to all matters of the church. This statement is very "scary" especially when you really know how the candidates/nominees for the BOD are being selected now.
May God have mercy on Calvary Church and give us the wisdom, strength, courage and discernment of the Holy Spirit, to uphold His righteousness and truth.
"Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness' sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven." (Matt 5:10)
God bless.
To the TT members,
We need to focus and take care of the spiritual growth of our young people.
This is vital.
Lets pray and do something about it, and soon.
Totally agree with ytf.
the story of the fridge, 50% pay-cut at retirement age, and RM 2500louis vuitton neverfull handbag... true or false?
Thank you all for your encouragement. I did feel a little guilty at first for exposing this unethical process of the nomination of deacons - it was a feeling like I have betrayed S.P.! This goes to show how much we have been under his "mind-control" for so many years. However, praise the Lord, I now feel like the heavy burden has been lifted & I am free! I have done my duty to God, & to the church. May the Lord deliver our beloved church from S.P.'s dictatorial & manipulative control, a sign of witchcraft activity.
My heart goes out to the young people. May they be overcomers & continue to keep their eyes focused on Jesus, Who is the Author & Finisher of their faith. Please forgive us for not being alert & brave enough to stop this pilfering of church funds for so many years! Someone, an ex-Calvarite, has said, "But why did it take you guys so long to know the truth (about the situation) & act on this?"
Please pray for us to be able to right the wrongs, to bring change to the church.
03 Oct 2008
CLEARING THE AIR
RE: Neutral 21 Sep 08
Quote: “ Wasn't this the BOD or the MIssions Department's decision and not SP? He does not sit on the Misions Committee nor does he sit on the BOD. Why are you saying that 'he' is the one? I don't know but all this just appears like there are people who don't like him and are trying to find any means and ways possible to find fault. White and white and black is black as you say, but then why are decisions made by the BOD or the Missions Department being said as actions taken by SP himself? Do we have proof thatb it is he and he alone who did these things without consulting anybody and anyone who sits on the proper committee and board? There are so many assigned to have the church run, do you mean to say that only ONE man is responsible for all these things? I highly doubt that, hence I view all this as a personal attack on one person solely bcos a group of people do not like him for whatever reason.”
Dear Neutral,
I’m afraid you did not get the facts right. May I refer you to the article ‘The Need for Constitution Amendments’ Posted by HM in the blog. His detailed analysis and the illustrated diagrams would correct the misconception you have. The majority –perhaps up to 95% are not aware of these facts. *( In the Missions Manual, it was stated Senior Pastor of the Church sits as the Chairman of the Missions Board. However, SP’s reply in answer to a question at the EGM, claimed he was only an ex-officio. Perhaps, the best person to confirm would be the Missions Director)
Have you heard of this saying “Your wish is my Command” ? When someone as powerful as the SP- CEO of the church, one need not always literally need to express one’s desire in so many words. Those who serve under him would know how to take the cue/hint in such instance ( out of fear, or love, loyalty, or under the notion that he can do no wrong) to please him, even when it is wrong, or simply choose to give SP the benefit of the doubt.
Perhaps, the Behind- the- scene revelation by ‘TRUE STORY’ on the nomination of the candidates for the BOD (posted 30 Sept 08) come in timely to lend credence to the above point I made.
EXTENDED MINISTRIES: Have we forgotten?
I believe the problem is, they BOD ,Missions Director & Ass Pastors sometimes can’t even detect it. It is like a jig-saw puzzle, until when more pieces are put together then the picture gets clearer—like in these recent years. The Concerned members noticed and have raised the ‘red flag’ however, sadly the BOD ignored them rather than address them. Do you still remember
how *tough it was to get the EXTENDED MINISTRIES ‘exposed’ before they (BOD &SP) finally
dealt with this well-disguised ‘Ministries of the church' which in fact were autonomous, self generating profit centres for those heading the Ministries. *( WHM wrote officially to no avail, and that a meeting (now referred as the 1st TT meeting)was held outside by the concerned members to make the matter known openly.
Do you remember, how SP ‘fought’ to defend them to the point of asking the matter be put to
VOTE, even though the Auditor had acknowledged what the Members had asked for- - i.e. the Accounts to consolidated into the main Church Annual Report, was the right thing to do! Thank God, truth won the day.
CCC: THE ‘VOTE’ FOR RM150 MILLION?
Do you also remember how the infamous voting of the RM150 Million was handled by SP ? The Members were told to stand-up to pray, but to the shock of many all present, they were told that , that was the ‘Vote’ taken for increased budget of RM150 MILLION.
By the way, this move was challenged by some members, and to my knowledge SP sought legal advice, but BOD never told this to the Congregation. Incidentally, I believe such legal cost $$$, wasn’t cheap either. In any case, this matter is still a contentious one.
Incidentally, does any one know how much the recent forensic accountants ‘-Ferrier Hogson cost us? And is there a LEGAL Fund allocation from the Church Offerings/Missions/Faith Promise Funds for such purposes to defend CIM/ SP & BOD?
THE WORD or THE LAW?
I wonder, how many of those who had told TT members to refer to the Word, actually realized SP
always got the ‘best’ legal or consultancy firms to seek advice/opinion using the Church Funds to counter Members views that raised doubts over his decision or actions?
Also, why the BOD who are charged to look into the Spiritual affairs of the Church had allowed it, is a BIG question mark. In fact, they themselves seem to Advocate the use of Legal route to dispel Members objections and concerns alike.
You can read from the comments, many are puzzled by the inaction/ justification/cover-up by the BOD. I wish, like so many others, they can explain what is this ‘FEAR FACTOR’ in them that made them impotent to do the right thing.
JUDGING & DISCERNMENT (PLAIN COMMON SENSE)?
It’s is very worrying to read how many well meaning brothers & sisters in Christ, have warned those who exposed wrong doings that they are judging as in being judgemental. I personally think it is rather dangerous to use this as a ‘fear’ card to silence Christians and get them to turn a blind eye to matters that are out- of- line. We are given intellect, and a spirit of discernment, and we exercise this in all areas of our life. Taking a stand; arriving at a decision or a carefully considered view; and forming a conclusion based on information, are NOT pronouncing judgment on anyone.
Judging is an opinion ( as in ‘judging by…one can arrive at something’) and it is NOT pronouncing Judgement as some would like us to think or believe. I sincerely hope this will allay any fear instilled by those who had interpret it incorrectly.
( There are lots of reading material on this subject of Judging,etc in Christian literature so I won't attempt to elaborate)
Further, if I understand from the comments of ‘Neutral’, ‘A peaceable Spirit’ ( and those who hold similar views) with doubts with regard to the truth of all the issues raised by TT members, then isn’t the TRUTH COMMISSION which the latter have pushed for it to be set up as early as MAY 08 at the meeting with the entire Board of Deacons, the best solution to determine once and for all, whether all that have been said and revealed thus far are truth or friction?
May I suggest that either 'Neutral' or ‘A peaceable spirit’ please ask and find out 1) Why did the BOD resist the setting up of the Truth Commission? and 2) Why all the legal consultations were sought on spiritual & moral issues?
Actually, both SP & BOD do have "some tough decisions to make" as well as some tough questions to answer. However, it is clear neither party will do it voluntarily. Hence The concerned group is asking for the Truth Commission to be formed ASAP.
Liza Low
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