| Over 200 corporate guests, many attending for the first time, Salvation Army officers and senior staff came together for the 12th Annual Red Shield Appeal Luncheon on 18 July at the Conrad Centennial Hotel. Mr Robert Chua, Chairman of the Appeal, Mr S Dhanabalan, Chairman of The Salvation Army Advisory Board in Singapore and other Advisory Board members also present, were, as always, wonderfully supportive of the Army's work.
A familiar personality on Singapore radio, Ms Susan Ng, graciously volunteered her professionalism for the second time as emcee for the lunch. In his opening message, the Territorial Commander, Commissioner David Bringans, spoke of a little boy who saw him dressed in his uniform and stopped to ask, "What are you?" Commissioner Bringans explained to him about the Army. He used this story to emphasize the point that to needy people the Army is whatever is needed. It is ‘Love Demonstrated' to those it helps. He was pleased to inform guests that The Salvation Army had scored amongst the highest in all areas of a recent governance review by the National Council of Social Services.
There was a short video presentation of Peter Khoo's story. Peter grew up in the Haven from 7-18 years-of-age, then at 27 years, through a grant provided by the Lee Foundation , studied in the United States obtaining a social work degree. Now, his life has come full cycle and he is Superintendent of the Haven, helping similar needy children, as he once was.
Mr Dhanabalan introduced the guest of honour, his mentor and friend of 50 years, Mr Ngiam Tong Dow, a former permanent secretary six times over, including at the Finance and National Development Ministries. Mr Ngiam spoke of his difficult life as the eldest of five children following his father's death. It was his Christian Indian neighbours who taught him to read and write and introduced him to Christianity. If it was not for their kindness life would have been very different for him. He challenged corporate guests and friends present to care about others; not just to give to their church; not just to give small change but to give until it hurts. Because of inflation and rising living costs, the target The Salvation Army needs to raise this year to fund its social work in Singapore is $1.75 million.
Mr Robert Chua in his concluding remarks referred to the parable told by Jesus of the Good Samaritan. The Jew was injured, robbed, exploited, avoided by others and became a customer for the innkeeper but most important was seen as a human being to be loved by the Samaritan. He encouraged guests to do likewise. In his rich baritone voice, Mr Chua concluded the lunch with a verse of ‘How great Thou art' as his testimony and praise to God.
The Salvation Army is grateful to guests who, as they left, generously gave over $180,000.00.
The Army thanks all donors whose help makes it possible for its officers and staff to be to the needy,
‘Love Demonstrated'.
|