I have ambitions of one day being a gardener. There’s something about the interdependence of plants which I find fascinating. For instance, companion planting is the practice of growing plants near each other, because of their ability to complement each other in making nutrients available, repelling pests, and providing shade. Apparently, hobby farmers alternate planting rows of carrots with onions because the onion smell puts off carrot root fly, while the smell of carrots repels onion fly.
A garden is a useful metaphor to describe Christian community. The Apostle Paul uses the phrase “one another” over fifty times to describe the relational life of Christians. We’re to “serve one another” (Gal. 5:13), “love one another” (Rom. 13:8), “bear with one another and… forgive one another” (Col 3:13), “bear one another’s burdens” (Gal. 6:2), and be “kind… tender-hearted, forgiving one another” (Eph. 4:32). Christians are dependent on each other for mutual spiritual health. We need one another to grow and flourish in Christ.
So how can we cultivate this interdependent community at St Andrew’s? There are at least three areas in which we seek to provide care for one another.
Care happens best in established relationships
Firstly, 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. 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 and would be glad to meet with you.
Finally, our tendency when in difficulty is not to seek help but to suffer quietly. If you are struggling or in need, can I encourage you to reach out to someone in our church family. We would love to listen, to pray with you, and support you.
