“Fellowship” is a word that’s fallen out of use. It feels old-fashioned and trivial. But it’s a profound reality in the New Testament, a fundamental ingredient to Christianity, and one of God’s means of grace in our lives.
Right at the birth of the early church, we’re told, “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer” (Acts 2:42). “Fellowship” comes from the Greek word koinonia, which means commonality and partnership. These people had their faith in Christ in common and that changed everything. That fellowship showed in how they cared for one another. “All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need” (Acts 2:44-45).
This wasn’t a loosely connected community. They were all-in. True fellowship is less like friends gathering to watch a football game on TV; it’s more like a team of players out on the field sweating and working hard with each other to get a win. Christian fellowship is a community of ordinary believers, deeply connected, caring for one another’s spiritual and practical needs.
So how can we have this fellowship of care at St Andrew’s?
Care happens best in established relationships
First, our Growth Groups are the main context for pastoral care. Care happens best in established relationships. These small groups are where we can get to know one another deeply, study God’s word together, provide for many practical needs, and pray for one another’s needs. Normally in these groups, people will connect to a few people more closely. Over time, they’ll feel more comfortable in sharing personal joys and struggles. Practical care can be provided more directly and effectively during times of acute difficulty.
Secondly, St Andrew’s also provides practical care through our ‘CARE Fund’ (Community Aid Relief and Emergency). This fund exists to provide financial support for church members going through challenging times or crisis. This fund is also used to give support to asylum seekers and refugees.
How can people access these funds? Applications are handled confidentially by a small committee of staff and lay leaders. At first instance, you can contact one of our pastoral staff. Church members are also welcome to donate to this fund as a practical way of caring for others. You can donate directly to this fund through the giving page on the church website.
Thirdly, pastoral staff are available to meet with church members who are going through more acute difficulties. Pastors who have oversight of different congregations are James Hall (8.30am service), Jack Wong (9.30am), Leslie Siu (11.30am), and YC Tang (5pm). Our women’s pastoral workers, Suzanne Lee, Carrie Au-Yeang, and Michele Cheng are also available.
A final encouragement. Sometimes our tendency when in difficulty is not to seek help but to suffer quietly. If you are in need, can I encourage you to reach out to the church family for support.
