Bethany Ministries

CHRISTMAS DINNER 2011

2012-01-12T17:04:00.004+08:00

Christmas Dinner 2011

What is Christmas all about?
Bethany organised a Christmas dinner at Harbour View Hotel to share the true meaning of Christmas. Of course, there were various performances, fellowship and an opportunity to meet friend's family members.

Our two wonderful hosts

Entertaining the audience with a small ice-breaker

Having a good time and fellowship with friends

Enjoying the scrumptious food

A beautiful solo by a beautiful girl

An amazing rendition of a traditional Nigerian song

A very entertaining mime

A mini Christmas choir

Christmas Food Parcel

2012-01-12T15:40:00.002+08:00

Christmas Food Parcel

Food parcel hits again with many people embracing the season of giving and contributing to the less fortunate families. On the 22^nd of December, Bethany organised a Christmas Food Parcel to bless less fortunate families and help them celebrate Christmas. We would like to thank those who so generously contributed to bless these families.

Loading the van with the goods

The children in one of the houses

Unloading the van

Heading to one of the houses

*We didn't post up the disable families pictures in order to respect the families member. If you want to know more information, you can always call Bethany Home (082-342627) in office hours.

2011 BIBLE CAMP- SPRITUAL DISCIPLINE

2012-01-12T15:27:00.000+08:00

Bible Camp

This year’s bible camp was held in the breathtaking Goshen Farm. This camp was a blessing in many ways. We reaped from bountiful harvest of durians and rambutans besides learning about the very important Spiritual Discipline which was our theme this year. Although this camp was about learning and no doubt we learnt a lot, we also did not miss the opportunity to have fun.

Besides the camp, we also had hands on exposure to missions when a group was sent to a village for a day. The group planned their own activities and came back many memories and stories to share. Well pictures speak louder than words so WALLA.........

The group of 2011 Bible Camp members

Learning how to be spritually disciplined

Group discussions and sharing time

Morning devotion

Discussion on Sunday's group performance

It's game time......

Bringing back some juicy rambutans from the farm

The mission team

Quiz competition with the children

Bonding with the children

Bethany Updates. . .

2011-12-13T15:54:00.004+08:00

It has been ages since we last updated the blog and few events were taken place over the months. Praise God for His abundant blessings over Bethany!

Discipleship School on Saturday night.

Group picture of Bethany members after Sunday service.

Now let's see what happened over the past few months. . .

JUNE

GAWAI BBQ FELLOWSIP NIGHT.

It was a night to just chill out and get to know new friends. Had fun bbq!

FATHERS' DAY

Fathers' Day falls on the third week of June, and a lot of times people tend to forget that. Bethany gave all the fathers a little present as an act of gratitude and love during the Sunday service. We appreciate their hard work and support all these while.

Let us learn to appreciate our fathers not only on Fathers' Day but also in everyday of our lives.

GAWAI FOOD PARCEL

Gawai is another festive that celebrated among the Native. Before the festive, Bethany actually found out that there are a few poor Native families in village that couldn't even afford to celebrate Gawai. For your information, in every family there is an disabled member and the family spend most of their money on their medication. Food parcel was organized to help them, thanks to different ones for their contributions to bless the family. This is how we help the needy ones, not only supporting them in meeting their needs but also get a step closer to understand their family backgrounds and situations.

Sorted out the food and packed into different boxes according to different families' need.

One of the families that we went.

*We didn't post up the disable families pictures in order to respect the families member. If you want to know more information, you can always call Bethany Home (082-342627) in office hours.

AUGUST

SERUAN MERDEKA

This event was held on 31st of August-National Day. It is a good opportunity to thank God for our nation by having worship celebration with the brothers and sisters in Christ from different villages. Bethany was given the privilege to take part in the event in EaglesWing, Lundu to serve, worship and celebrate with the rest of the villagers.

Worship and presentation.

Giving away free drinks.

OCTOBER

MURAL PAINTING COMPETITION

Bethany Ministries organized "Kuching and the Logos Hope Experience" Mural Painting Competition where around 100 participants took part. The purpose of this event is to decorate the 360 feet walkaway where the Logos Hope will disembark and be an attraction throughout the three weeks during which Logos Hope is opened to the public from all walks of life, of course this also allows the participants to express their skills, talents and creativities as a team during the mural painting competition.

It was raining half-way through the competition but that didn't pull down the spirit of teamwork!

Group picture of winners with the Captain.

Thanks to all the sponsors-Murobond, KKB Engineering Bhd, Borneo Adventures, Trinity Book Room, Hai Soon Concrete Sdn. Bhd and those who gave secretly.

Mother's Day at Bethany..

2011-05-19T11:53:00.001+08:00

Mother's Day is celebrated world over in the effort to show gratitude to mothers all everywhere; it is no different in Bethany. On the 8th of May, we incorporated a little something for our mothers into our weekly Sunday service as a token of our love and gratitude towards them:

Uncle Mark saying a prayer for the Mothers in our midst

A little gift prepared for our Mothers

Mother's Day is just another opportunity to display our love and gratitude towards our caring mothers; for their undying love and presence with us, even before we set foot in this world. In the words of the great Politician, President, and Philosopher, Abraham Lincoln, "All that I am or I ever hope to be, I owe to my angel Mother."

Word Out!!

2011-04-19T13:15:00.001+08:00

Bethany Ministries has been in operation for the past 9 years; expanding across the borders of race, culture, and even geography. Last week, we were given the opportunity to exhibit a bit of what we do as a ministry to serve the community around us here in Kuching, Sarawak. A team of us went up to Penang to set-up a booth at the 'Transform Our City Together' Exhibition, held at the Kompleks Masyarakat Penyayang, Penang. It was awesome, to say the least!!

We had a great time at the exhibition, where we were also able to build valuable connections with other ministries and organisations. Ultimately though, when we look back on the 9 years past, we know we have lots to be grateful to God for; and all we have done and continue to do is really because of His faithfulness, and for His glory alone. To many more years ahead!!

Results!!

2011-03-28T15:04:00.002+08:00

The SPM and STPM results are out!! It's been an anxious wait for most; sleepless nights beckoned by the sense of curiosity and worry. Well, all that is finally over, and without a doubt, there is a great sense of relief and gratitude flowing from the students. Here are what some of the students have to say:

"I am very pleased with my SPM results as it is the best I have achieved in my higher secondary education. I am especially pleased with my English results that have improved so much since I started coming to Bethany Home. Ultimately, I have God to thank for my results!!" - Ng. Tsae Chiann, 18

"My STPM results are very unexpected, as I did not expect such good results. I tried my best, and left the rest to God; and today I have Him to thank for His blessings." - Grace Lymie, 20

"I am pleased with my SPM results. Before sitting for the papers, I prayed that I would be able to sit where I would not be disturbed or distracted; and God answered my prayers. I was allocated a seat at the back, in the corner; and I was able to do my exams well!! I am especially happy with my English results, which I was a bit concerned about. I thank God for His goodness towards me!!" - Lee Yau, 18

The journey keeps going for these students, some move on to University, Teacher's College, and various higher learning institutes. As they look back on their years in school, and the way it has culminated, they see the faithfulness of God, and His goodness in their lives!!

2011-03-02T14:57:00.000+08:00

Bethany Home!!

Bethany Home is alive with activity once more, with an array of happenings throughout the week!!

Homework Centre

The Homework Centre has gotten off to a great start in 2011!! With a handful of students coming in on a daily basis, to do their homework, Bethany Home is buzzing with activity once more!! Here are some shots of the homework centre in progress:

Academic Assistance

The Academic Assistance classes are also underway; with a total of 4 subjects being taught on a weekly basis. The Academic Assistance program is an essential part of Bethany Ministries, and aims at aiding students in their studies. Check these out:

Bethany Home is open daily from 8.30am to 5.00pm, so do feel free to come by for an experience!!

Happy Valentine's Day!!

2011-02-14T12:58:00.002+08:00

Happy Valentine’s Day!! Our Valentine’s Day Special Service was nothing short of spectacular!! With great insightful views about love and relationships from Ps. Che Chung and wife, Pei Sing, it has already earned itself a place as one of the highlights of the year!! Here are some memories:

Full house!!

Ps. Che Chung sharing his heart..

Pei Sing with some enlightening views..

Valentine’s Day is firmly rooted in love; with links going back all the way to a certain St. Valentine and his great act of love. Thus, it is fitting that as we celebrate this ‘love-filled’ day, for us to remember the greatest act of love ever shown; in which our God sent His one and only Son, to earth; to live a man’s life and to die a criminal’s death, to take away our sins that we might have relationship with Him.

"How deep the Father’s love for us; how vast beyond all measure.."

Happy Chinese New Year!!

2011-02-07T13:11:00.000+08:00

Happy Chinese New Year everyone!! Hope you had an outstanding time of reuniting, and celebrating with loved ones; as you ushered in the Lunar New Year of the Rabbit. If you’re superstitious, the year of the rabbit is said to be the harbinger of happiness and good fortune. However, if you’re not superstitious, like us, don’t fret, it’s still going to be a good year, because we have a God who showers His blessings upon us daily!!

We at Bethany got up to a lot during the Chinese New Year period, racking up a total of 16 house visitations!! Here are some memories…

We had a blast and are looking forward to next year, when the visiting will resume, but, for now, HAPPY CHINESE NEW YEAR!!

Enter, 2011!!

2011-01-28T10:36:00.003+08:00

Year 2011 has gotten off to a bang!! 2010 was exhilarating, powerful, and awesome, to say the least; with so much that took place, but it is indefinitely exciting to be in 2011; with lots to look forward to!! So keep your ears open and eyes locked for plenty of exciting news!!

DISCIPLESHIP SCHOOL

Discipleship School is back on the market!! From 7:00 pm - 9:00 pm every Saturday we gather to learn more about God; with inspirational worship, followed by intense teaching of the Word, it is not something that you would want to miss out on!!

SUNDAY WORSHIP SERVICE

Sunday Worship Service is on as per normal, from 10:00 am – 12:00 pm every Sunday, and have been nothing short of impactful!! With life-changing messages and heart-warming hospitality on the cards every week, it is definitely the place to be on a Sunday morning!!

PRAYER HOUSE

Prayer is an essential part of every fellowship, and in Bethany Ministries that is no exception. Prayer House is a time when we come together to spend time in prayer. It runs from 8:00pm – 9:15pm every Wednesday. Come and join us as we lift up our church, community, and nation before God!!

Testimony

Hi, my name is Julius Ng; I am 18 years old, and am awaiting entrance into medical school in Russia. I have always believed in prayer, and its power. Today, I want to share a little testimony about how prayer has impacted my life.

A few months ago, I was praying and God gave me a vision. In the vision, I saw a heart, and on the heart there was a dot. I felt that God was saying to me that I was that dot, on the heart, and that I was in Him, and meant a lot to Him. This instance has indefinitely left a mark on my life, allowing me to feel and know that really I am precious in God’s sight!!

Julius Ng

2010 Flashback Video for Watchnight Service

2011-01-28T10:25:00.000+08:00

'Distinctively Involved, Subversively Engaged' Bible Camp 2010

2010-12-23T13:41:00.000+08:00

Happenings in Bethany Home

2010-11-16T16:05:00.000+08:00

Bethany Home Open Day, 31st August 2010

2010-09-23T15:54:00.000+08:00

The Sibu Mission Trip 2010

2010-07-08T23:04:00.000+08:00

Worship Celebration Concert, ACS Kuching

2010-05-29T18:42:00.001+08:00

Hello Teacher! We know we are naughty, but we have a heart lah!

2010-05-29T18:24:00.000+08:00

In April 2002, a small group of students experienced a life changing experience with God and were so hungry for God that in the weeks to follow so many of their friends began committing their lives to Christ. It started in school and then there was the concern - spirit-filled students with a need for discipline in life and studies - more so because they were all first generation believers. The form 4F class then was desperately needing academic help and the only way to help them was to run some simpler lessons for them - but this could not be done during school hours as the regimented lessons still had to go on!

On the 11th of May 2002, we started Bethany Ministries with just a few who were able to help and be there to teach and study together. Over the years, we have seen hundreds of students having come through the Homework and Academic assistance programs; still a great number who benefitted from the year end examination study periods. Many have moved on to acquiring degrees and jobs and by His continual grace - still serving and remembering His goodness and faithfulness in their lives. Some still stay in touch and bless us in return and we praise God for that.

Last night, these 4F students of 2002, paid us a visit and began to talk about the old times - one said "7 years and time has passed by so fast!" Another said "I still remember being in Bethany Home studying with you all!" And yet another one said,"I cannot speak English before but I can a bit now la!" It is so heart warming to hear such things and though none of them entered university or furthered their studies, they are doing well in their own jobs and they all seem to be happy - although life seems to be tough they say. For us it is a sheer joy to have them visit us without fail for the last 7 years - just to say "Hello Teacher!"

Bethany Home: Reaching out to the students

2010-03-15T08:12:00.000+08:00

Friday March 12, 2010

Bethany Home: Reaching out to the students
By SHARON LING

sharonling@thestar.com.my

ON weekday afternoons, secondary school students can be found doing homework or catching up on various subjects in a house at Kenyalang Park in Kuching.

This is Bethany Home, an after-school centre set up by teacher-cum-pastor Cheli Tamilselvam and his wife Mei to give students a place to go for academic help and improve their studies.

The living room of the house at Jalan Chawan has been converted into a classroom while another area is set aside for homework and computer facilities.

Focused help: Cheli giving these students some tips for their studies.

Cheli, a senior assistant (student affairs) at SMK Bandar Kuching No 1, said an average of 40 students come to Bethany Home after school every day.

Classes are offered on Mondays to Thursdays for English, Bahasa Melayu, Mathematics, Science, Additional Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Biology for Form Three to Form Five. On Fridays, free guitar lessons and computer classes are available.

“We have a few volunteers who come in to help teach the students in small groups.

“Students can also come in to do their homework or revision. Usually, they will do this alongside their peers or someone from an older class so that they can help each other when needed,” he said.

In addition, Bethany Home has Internet facilities with computers and Wi-Fi for students to do their projects.

Cheli, who is also pastor at Bethany Ministries, said he started the centre in May 2002 when the students in his school asked him for help with their studies.

Concentrating hard: Chai (right) and Mok doing their homework at Bethany Home.

“I realised many of them had disciplinary problems and couldn’t concentrate on their studies because their foundations were weak. So I asked whether they would come if I rented a house and offered help with their studies, and they said yes.

“Since then we’ve seen hundreds of students come here to study. They found motivation and purpose and also improved in their studies,” he said.

He recalled that the first batch of students at Bethany Home included four who scored straight As in the STPM examination, a result which had not been expected from them.

“Over the years, we’ve been able to help many young people who come from various schools. We want to see this as a place where young people can come in and find positive guidance to be purposeful, passionate and productive,” he said.

He emphasised, however, that Bethany Home was a place for learning, not loitering.

“We are very strict about this. We discourage the students from wasting their time here.”

Fong Che Chung, 25, is one of those who benefited from Bethany Home. Fong, who is now an assistant pastor with Bethany Ministries, said he had failed every subject in the SPM mock examination at school in 2003 before his friends urged him to go to Bethany Home.

“It was about a month before SPM and I had totally lost hope. But I decided to come to Bethany Home as I had nothing to lose.

“During that month, I came every day and studied mainly with my friends, who taught and helped me to understand the various subjects. Questions that I did not know how to answer previously started to make sense,” he said.

Guidance provided: Students attending a class at Bethany Home.

He eventually scored 2As and several Cs and Ds for SPM, which was better than he had expected.

After working in a travel agency for three years, Fong decided last year to work full time at Bethany Home to help others the way he had received guidance.

Form Four students Joyce Chai and Mok Chin Yaw, who have been coming to Bethany Home since last year, found that it had helped them to improve in their studies.

“I started coming last year for help with PMR. I attended the English, Maths and Science classes here and it helped me improve and get better results. Now, I come three or four days a week after school to do my homework,” Joyce said.

Chin Yaw added: “I like coming to Bethany Home because it’s a nice place and there are people here to teach me.

“If I don’t know how to do certain parts of my homework, I can ask someone for help.”

source: Bethany Home: Reaching out to the students(The Star)

Simon & Jun Wedding Dinner, The Sarawak Club, 21st Feb 2010

2010-02-24T15:24:00.001+08:00

ICCTS Exposure Trip to Kampung Simuti

2010-01-31T12:44:00.000+08:00

ICCTS Welcome Dinner cum Bethany BBQ

2010-01-15T08:44:00.001+08:00

The Reading Bus Introduction Visit to Saratok

2009-12-29T09:56:00.000+08:00

School Alpha

2009-11-16T11:41:00.000+08:00

School Alpha

School Alpha is a condensed version of the Youth Alpha Course and it is run in schools either as part of the extra -curricular activity (in schools where the Christian Fellowship is allowed to be run) or in small groups where students meet at their own convenience. All students are welcome on a School Alpha Course and students have a wide variety of reasons for attending.

Some want to investigate whether God exists and if there is any point to life; others are concerned about what happens after death; still others may have attended church on and off all their lives but feel they have never really understood the basics of the Christian faith.

Students come from many different backgrounds, holding many different viewpoints – but all come with the same objective: to establish whether Jesus Christ has any real relevance for their lives.

“What I like most about the School Alpha is the time we spend preparing for the sessions. We meet to discuss the ice-breakers and discussions. Then I also enjoy the snacks and mingle time as it makes us feel relaxed after a long week in school.” - Alistair Ong, 17 years old

“I like School Alpha because it is different and we are all allowed to share our stories with one another in our group. I have learnt so much from these.” - Ng Tsae Yuan, 19 years old

What is Alpha?

Developed at Holy Trinity Brompton church in London, Alpha is a ten week opportunity to explore the validity and relevance of the Christian faith for our lives today. It is a practical introduction to the basics of Christianity with lots of opportunity for debate and discussion.

The style of Alpha is informal, friendly and non-pressurizing. It is enjoyed and appreciated as much by those who have never set foot in a church as it is by those who once attended and also by the regular churchgoer.

“I enjoy School Alpha very much because it is interesting and really fun. My friends really enjoy it too.” - Jayne Chong, 15 years old

“The group discussions are really good because we get a chance to hear each others’ stories. The relaxed atmosphere is so good for us to bring our friends along. I still miss the singing though.” - Wong Li Xin, 17 years old

Who is Alpha for?

• Those wanting to investigate Christianity
• Those who are curious about Christianity
• Those who feel that they have never really got going as a Christian
• Christians who want to brush-up on the basics

How is it run?

The Alpha course begins with snacks, followed by a talk. Students are then divided into smaller groups to discuss any questions raised from the talk. This is a typical School Alpha meeting. Then there is also an opportunity to go on a weekend away. This has been a key part of the course and a great success in helping people get to know each other and God.

	Activity	Time
1.	Snacks & Ice Breaker	15 min
2.	Talk – Point 1	10 min
3.	Group Discussion – Point 1	5 min
4.	Talk – Point 2	10 min
5.	Group Discussion – Point 2	5 min
6.	Talk – Point 3 & Summarise The Talk	15 min
7.	Prayer ( when it is the right time to do so)	5 min

Stories from Students

“I joined the Christian Fellowship in school since I was in Form 1 and I’ve learnt a lot from it. I gave my life to Christ in one of the meetings and since then, my life has transformed tremendously. I have learnt to serve in different ways such as in sharing testimonies, leading small groups, encouraging others and making good friends.

Currently, we are running the School Alpha course which is a great tool to reach out to friends. We enjoy discussing together. I am always happy when friends turn up for the School Alpha. Age is not a limit in serving God’s Kingdom. We can serve with a cheerful and young heart.” - Vera Li
Note: Vera is currently serving as the President of her school’s Christian Fellowship.

“In my 3 years with the CF, I have learnt many different things and shared many experiences. The CF helped me in my walk with Jesus. One thing I struggled with was inviting my friends for CF meetings. Several times when I asked a few of my friends to come they wouldturn me down and I felt disappointed but as I kept on trying, a few of them started to come.

Seeing them wanting to learn more about Jesus and giving their lives to Christ made me even happier. I also help to run the different programmes and activities like School Alpha. I truly believe that God is working in the life of the students and the CF is an amazing avenue for students to gather and learn more about God and at the same time fellowship with one another.” - James Raj
Note: James Raj sits for his PMR at the end of 2009 and serves actively as an Alpha Leader in his school and in his church.

“School Alpha is an excellent way to get to know Christianity and discover truths about Jesus, faith, prayer and the Bible. It has also been so much of fun and I am able to fellowship with so many others during the meetings. The greatest impact to me has been the discussion times where we are able to share and learn from one another.” - Dexter Chong
Note: Dexter will be sitting for his SPM at the end of 2009 and actively serves as a School Alpha leader in his school.

Photo Album of the Reading Bus First visit to Kampung Pueh

2009-11-09T11:32:00.001+08:00

Click on slide show to view all the photo.

The Reading Bus

2009-11-05T10:41:00.001+08:00

What’s the Reading Bus?

The READING BUS is one of the community projects of Bethany Ministries. It is a mobile library programme, in which a rural village will be adopted for a period of three months and a team of 5 will be sent out to the village every forthnightly over the weekends to help set up a library in the village. To see this being achieved the team will run several delayed education, reading intervention and motivational programmes alongside the Alpha Course which will be conducted during the nights.

Goals & Objectives

To provide reading opportunities for rural children and teenagers
To initiate a feasible, easily available and manageable mobile library programme for the villages
To provide avenues for urban teenagers to give by teaching and conducting elementary English reading programmes
To help elevate reading interest amongst children and teenagers in the village
To train a minimum of 2 volunteers to carry on the library program after 3 months
To set up a permanent library in the village with sufficient numbers of books to ensure continuity

The Reading Bus Programme’s Schedule

Time	Activity	Resource
0900 - 1700	Library Programme	Library chest Children & elementary English language books Library cards Library books index
1000 - 1100	Sticker Book Programme	Sticker Books (Titles include: Animals, Around the House, Colours, Mix & Match, Nature, Numbers, Patterns, Shapes, Sizes, Time and Words)
1100 - 1200	“Most Important Story Ever Told” Lesson	“Most Important Story Ever Told” Booklets Worksheets
1500 - 1700	Key Words with Ladybird Reading Competition	Ladybird Books Marking Schedules Progress Chart Assessors

LIBRARY PROGRAMME

STICKER BOOK PROGRAMME

“MOST IMPORTANT STORY EVER TOLD” LESSON

KEY WORDS WITH LADYBIRD READING COMPETITION

Our Stories

“I was overwhelmed by the turnout of the children. On the first trip we had 35 children and by the second trip, it shot up to 45. As I observed and spoke to the children, I realised that many had dreams, BIG dreams which they never really thought could ever come to reality. One even said that he dreams to be an architect in London.

The Reading Bus was causing a chain reaction, as they saw us and talked to us about our own dreams and how God has been a Great Provider to us, they began to realise that nothing was impossible.“ - Natasha Binya Nanta
Note: Natasha is now studying social work at Curtin University in Perth, Australia.

“I enjoyed working together in a team of many different races and ethnicities. The time spent in preparation was really beneficial to me as I learnt several new things along the way. I was greatly blessed and encouraged as I taught the children because they were so willing to listen and to learn from me. It was a great pleasure just seeing them smile and recite words from the sticker books. As I was teaching them, I was wonderfully reminded that we learn, mature and change everyday.” - Stanley Okonkwo
Note: Stanley will soon be in London to complete his degree in Electronic Engineering.

“I am truly grateful for the privilege to be on the Reading Bus trip not long ago. It is so encouraging to see the humility of young people from Bethany as they served God by meeting the needs of the villagers and their children in particular.At the beginning of the trip, I was expecting to only share with the villagers, but it turned out to be a total different thing because I was more blessed and encouraged than them. Another thing that touched me was when I saw how the youths in the village were willingly teaching the younger ones, and finally hearing the testimonies from the team members after the trip, made the entire trip so memorable for me.” – Eugene Tan
Note: Eugene Tan is currently doing his 3rd year in medical school in Kursk, Russia and continues to serve actively in his church.

The Reading Bus 1, First Visit to Kampung Pueh

2009-11-04T10:43:00.000+08:00

Kampung Pueh (Pueh Village - approx. 110km from Kuching)

Registration for the Mobile Library Borrowing of books

Noel (a volunteer) doing a Sticker Book lesson

Erika teaching The Most Important Story Ever Told

Homework Centre

2009-10-27T14:15:00.000+08:00

Homework Assistance

Homework Assistance runs from 2pm to 5pm at Bethany Home and is an exciting outreach ministry where students invite their classmates to study together, share and learn from each other. All groups are led by one or two volunteers who themselves have been blessed in their studies through the Homework Assistance program.

I love people and seeing the students coming in to study with such weak foundation in their studies , it makes me look forward to being there for them each week. I wish to be a teacher who will make a difference in the lives of the children one day - Jolina Chang, 18 years old

"I feel good about studying in Bethany. If I don't understand certain topics or stuff, I can ask people. Anyway, if I stayed at home, I would probably be watching television and wasting my time." - Kevin Yip, 17 years old

"If I stayed at home, I would be sleeping or playing computer games. I find Bethany Home very conducive because it is quiet and I have many friends who encourage me and spur me on." - Alvin Chin, 18 years old

Academic Assistance

Held throughout the school year, Academic Assistance is a ministry set up to assist students in catching up with their school subjects. Classes offered are English, Malay language, Mathematics and Science. The classes are held from 3pm to 5pm at Bethany Home each day.

In the last few years there has been an average of 120 students who turn up every week for the Academic Assistance classes. Students contribute a small token as a sign of commitment to their studies.

"I don't feel bored when I am at Bethany Home because there is always something to do. Whenever I need help in my studies, there is always somebody around to help me. Bethany Home also provides food and transport for us." - Teo Kuo Leat, 16 years old

"In Bethany Home I am able to get a lot of help from older students who willingly help me whenever I need help in my studies. I am unable to do this at home as I am always expected to study alone." - Joyce Chai Ying Ying, 15 years old

"I find the place very conducive and comfortable to study. The air-conditioning helps me stay focused for a longer time. I have improved in my subjects in school. I love being in Bethany Home." - Mok Chin Yaw, 15 years old

Online Assistance

Online Assistance is held from 2pm to 5pm everyday and is focused on helping students become IT literate. Computers with internet connections and printers are made available for the students to use.

Students use the facilities to complete their school projects and free classes are given to students who wish to learn how to use computer.

There are currently four Online Assistance computers available to students, and there are plans to add to that number to meet the needs of the increasing number of students using Bethany Home.

"Bethany Home provides me a place to study as well as internet connection to do research online for my school projects. Each time I need help, there is also someone there for me." - Florence Richard, 18 years old

"I am able to focus on my work when I come to Bethany and I have improved in all my grades in school. I finally feel that I can make it through my PMR." - Sim Pei Ching, 15 years old

Our Stories

"I sat for my SPM examination a few months after I became a Christian. I was weak in my studies because I was not interested and was rather lazy. One day, Pastor Cheli invited me to study at Bethany Home along with some of my friends whom I knew in Bethany, so I gave it a try. I came early in the morning and I would study until late at night. I did not need to worry about my meals or transport home, because all these were provided.

What truly touched my heart and began to motivate me was that most of my friends who were also studying there took time to teach us who were weak. Their earnestness and sincerity encourage me a lot. When the SPM results were released, I couldn't believe what I got; I passed all but one subject. I even got 2 As. What God did for me through the Homework Centre made me think and thus I decided to do the same for other students who are in need now and I love serving God through these ministries."
- Fong Che Chung
Note: Today Che Chung serves as Associate Pastor of Bethany Ministries and oversees the operation of Bethany Home.

"I was excited to be a part of the Homework ministry in Bethany Home and to be able to serve as a tutor to some younger students. I realise that it is in serving that God has taught me how to love and appreciate the people around me.

Serving has also given me avenues to experience God in special ways and to grow in Him. Seeing my friends being touched and coming to know God through simple acts of serving makes me want to serve God even more!"
-Angela Chang
Note: Angela has recently graduated from University Malaya and is currently working as a Quantity Surveyor with a public-listed company.

"I love spending time to teach in Bethany Home. The students turn up with various needs and it makes me feel so good to be able to share with them what I know and by doing so I have been able to share the love of God with them. I feel blessed in having such an opportunity to serve God instead of wasting my time doing aimless things."
-Goh Yan Hui
Note: Yan Hui is currently doing a degree in teaching at the Specialist Teachers' Training Institute in Kuala Lumpur.

Video about Bethany Homework Centre

International cross cultural training School

2009-10-26T16:01:00.000+08:00

What is ICCTS?

The International Cross Cultural Training School (ICCTS) is a discipleship school that provides skills for ministry and outreach in a cross cultural context. It is designed to stimulate and equip young people to discover and fulfil God’s global purposes.

The 4-week school has a mixture of both theoretical and practical learning and is taught in English. Foreign students can choose to extend their ICCTS experience up to three months.

Components of ICCTS
• Kairos Course: God, the Church and the World
• Discipleship & Mentoring
• Servant Leadership
• Tools for Ministry & Mission
• Reading Bus Ministry (Education outreach)
• Alpha Course Leaders’ Training
• Team Dynamics
• Ministry Opportunities
• Village Outreach (Indigenous peoples)
• Unreached People Groups
• Youth and Children Outreach
• Student Outreach

Who’s Who in ICCTS?

“ICCTS is the fruition of a vision I had while still in New Zealand more than 10 years ago. A school which provides sound biblical training and ministry avenues, raising up trained and passionate young people who will want to see the nations brought into HIS Kingdom.” - Ps Cheli Tamilselvam, Bethany Ministries Malaysia, Principal of ICCTS

“ICCTS testifies to the universality in the diversity of God’s creation.”- Philip Yong, FGBMF East Malaysia, Advisor for ICCTS

“ICCTS is about discovering the purpose and passion of God in fulfilling and finishing HIS redemptive work among all peoples and HIS Kingdom.” - Ps Neduncheliyan, STAMP Malaysia, Facilator of ICCTS

“It’s a good opportunity for young people to be trained and equipped for ministry.” - Ps Ryan Foo, Harvest Generation Malaysia, Teacher of ICCTS

“The ICCTS provides a community environment through which students grow in their faith, skills and Christian worldview. It is a fantastic stepping-stone for any young person wanting to pursue God’s call to cross cultural ministry.” - Janna Ewing, DCBC New Zealand, International Coordinator of ICCTS

Impressions of ICCTS

“Solid biblical instruction and daily impartation from experienced leaders serving in various ministries in Malaysia, with culturally relevant and hands on exposure needed to grasp Jesus' true heart for every believer's role in servant leadership, discipleship and missions.” - Carrie Baber, Global Ministry Teams

“I learnt more about missions, serving others and discipleship. The teachers’ testimonies encouraged me, helping me draw nearer to God.” - Simon Wee, ICCTS graduate 2008

“The way God wants us to spread the gospel is not through our words alone, but by our actions consciously and constantly loving all the people around us.” - Leslie Leong, ICCTS graduate 2008

“The school is a refreshing reminder of God's plan and purpose for the world. Through ICCTS I have learnt how to trust God and to rely on Him as I live my life each day.”
- Oguchi Nzekwe, ICCTS graduate of January 2008

Stories from Students

“I joined ICCTS while on summer break halfway through my medical degree in Russia. ICCTS opened my eyes to a lot of new things. I learnt much on God’s plan and how to evangelize, and also how to communicate with different people. As we visited different places and villages I got to know the different cultures and their lifestyles. It was interesting to learn lots of new thing and I enjoyed it all. The most crucial thing is that after ICCTS I seem to be able to fit in better now that I am back in to Russia. I thank God for giving me this opportunity to go through this course that I may enrich my life with lots of new things.” - Stephen Wong, ICCTS graduate of June 2008

“ICCTS showed me that there are so many people groups out there that can be reached, and going out to help in the villages helped me see beyond the small window of life that we see most of the time in Kuching. The time spent at Kairos mission awareness training was really eye-opening too.” - Shellyn Felicia, ICCTS graduate of June 2008
Note: Shellyn is currently in her final year of law studies at SEGi college and serves as one of the leaders in Bethany Ministries.

“ICCTS was indeed a great learning experience, and I had the privilege to experience it as both a participant and a facilitator. I was deeply challenged to look at ministry for God’s kingdom with a different perspective and it was a blessing to be able to learn and share my life with so many people through the course. The course showed me that regardless how we look on the outside, we are all the same inside – we are all God’s beloved children.” - James Loi, ICCTS graduate of June 2008
Note: James is the Missions Coordinator of Bethany Ministries and is part of the team of teachers at ICCTS.

“ICCTS has helped me draw closer to God and it is an excellent training ground for spiritual disciplines. Through this school I have been given the opportunity to serve and by doing so I am able to discover my gifts. I have also built strong friendships and have learnt how to trust and be accountable to others. I feel that the greatest impact that ICCTS has had on me is that it has ignited a passion within me for the lost and needy.”- Barnabas Ung, ICCTS graduate of June 2008
Note: Barnabas is currently in his final year studying Marketing and Management in Swinburne University, Kuching and serves as a leader in the Campus Alpha ministry.

Stanley's Testimony

2009-10-19T10:37:00.000+08:00

Life is made up not of great sacrifices or duties but of little things. I was reminded this week that it is not how long you know somebody but more how you impact the person that counts. I really want to thank God for what He has done for me this week. He has blessed me in so many ways that I feel I cannot even express myself to Him because I feel I do not deserve what He is doing for me. One thing I know is that He calls me son and that I can lean on him when I am weary.

Friends, let us not judge each day by the harvest we reap, but by the seeds we plant!

Stanley

2009-10-07T16:07:00.000+08:00

I wish to share how God has blessed me recently... I just bought a second-hand car and I really want to thank God for His blessings. I have always wondered why God didn't bless me with a car before this as I have often said that I needed one to ferry people around. God is always smarter than us as He knew that at that time I wouldn't have had the money to get a car. And even if I did get a car, I wouldn't have enough cash to maintain it. It was then when I realized my motive and desire – maybe it was just my dream or maybe just to show it to others. God's timing is always the best. I am blessed that He made me wait until now."

Ps. Che Chung

2009-09-23T14:35:00.000+08:00

Youth Alpha Night

~Picnic Style~

Preparing the food.

Above and below: Eating time.

Game during Youth Alpha

Personal Stories Anyone??

2009-09-20T18:31:00.000+08:00

The most powerful story anyone can ever write about in their lives is their story of how God saved, forgave and transformed them... May I urge you, encourage you, and even nudge you if needed, to write out your own personal stories, email them to bethanymin@gmail.com and we will help you get them posted up on this blog so that many may be blessed... Your story is God's story of your life!!! Blessings

Speak Up Ye Bloggers!!

2009-09-18T22:16:00.000+08:00

Yo bloggers of Bethany Ministries... this is our first ever BLOG page and let it be one that will remain and grow in the coming years... I realise that most people both young and old prefer reading blogs compared to web sites or even emails... May I encourage you, whether you were a part of Bethany Ministries in the past or for those of you faithfuls who still remain, to link yourselves here... Please also write out your personal testimonies sharing with us passionately as to how God ochestrated salvation in your life and post it here... the testimony of Jesus is the Spirit of prophecy... Blessings