One would have thought that after a major expose on the Calvary saga in a national newspaper (read http://calvarytoday.blogspot.com/2009/11/calvary-crisis-in-star.html), our dear pastors and Board of Deacons (BOD) will get their act together and seek to resolve all the issues facing our Church.
Unfortunately our dear Deacons and Pastors (and PG) are not ordinary God-fearing people. They have proven, once again to be man-fearing people.
In an immediate response to the report in the The Star on 18 November 2009, the Deacons and Pastors issued an announcement through the pulpit on 22 November 2009 as well as through the Church website to reaffirm their confidence in PG and his wife and deny all the "allegations" stated in the newspaper report.
This is an excerpt from the Church website announcement:
"Many of you may have read the article published in Metro section of the Star dated November 18, 2009 titled “Crisis rocks Calvary Church”. We understand that you may be disturbed by the allegations in the article.
These allegations were presented by the Board of Deacons and deliberated at length by the members of Calvary Church at the EGMs on 15 August, 2008 and 4 April, 2009 and AGM on 19 June, 2009. The allegations were investigated thoroughly by the Church’s internal auditors, a renowned firm of Investigative Accountants and a firm of Advocates and Solicitors specializing in criminal practice. These allegations were found to be baseless………..
……..The Deacons and Pastors reaffirm our confidence in Senior Pastor Prince Guneratnam and his leadership. We believe that the Lord will continue to use him and Sister Petrina to enable God’s will and plan for Calvary Church to be fulfilled.
Let us as a church receive the exhortation in Hebrews 10:36 “to persevere so that when you have done the will of God, you will receive what He has promised.” Also, let us continue to love and support one another as we stay focused and faithful, praying for our Senior Pastor, Pastors, Deacons and their families for God’s protection, strength and wisdom as they lead and guide the Church.”
It is typical of PG and his deacons to use the word “allegations” to continue to hoodwink the members. What the newspaper has reported are FACTS and not allegations.
IT IS A FACT that RM1.9million was transferred from the Church Missions Fund to CIM without members’ knowledge!
Lawyer KK Wong and Edward Rajasingam (Church Deacon and Treasurer) confirmed this at the EGM held on 15 August 2008. Although KK Wong stated that since the transfers were approved (by ratification) by the BOD and therefore, there were no CBT involved, he later, during question time, qualified his opinion by saying that if we were to give the same set of documents to other lawyers, we would get all different opinions. In answer to a question, he also stated that he has no way of confirming if the documents and minutes given to him by the BOD are genuine.
Another thing to note is that KK Wong made his presentation at the EGM in his personal capacity. He did not represent his firm and therefore, the announcement by the BOD is MISLEADING!
Edward confirmed that the funds were transferred over several years to CIM and the BOD’s approval was obtained (ratified) only after each transfer was done.
Listen to both KK Wong and Edward’s statements by clicking on the audio clips below.
Clip #1 : Lawyer's statements
Clip #2 : Treasurer's Statements
OTHER FACTS:
#1. IT IS A FACT that a gift of US$10,000 was given to Dr Guynes!
#2. IT IS A FACT that the Church paid for the overseas airfare of PG’s grandchild!
#3. IT IS A FACT that the Church gave a scholarship to PG’s children to study in USA!
#4. IT IS A FACT that the Church paid RM40,000 medical fees for PG’s grandchild!
#5. IT IS A FACT that PG’s gym membership was paid for by the Church!
#6. IT IS A FACT that PG has never declared the love offerings he has received!
#7. IT IS A FACT that our Ampang Outreach Pastor was paid a mere RM250 a month previously!
#8. IT IS A FACT that the love offering collected for Pas Phil was not given to him!
(Read Pas Phil’s story at http://calvarytoday.blogspot.com/2009/09/pastor-phils-story.html)
#9. IT IS A FACT that PG appraises his own children and the BOD does not know their increments!
#10. IT IS A FACT that there is poor financial management!
#11. IT IS A FACT that there is a lack of transparency!
#12. IT IS A FACT that Dr Lum was sacked for speaking out!
#13. IT IS A FACT that the CCC’s building cost has ballooned from RM50m to RM150m!
#14. IT IS A FACT that the CCC construction commenced without sufficient funds in hand!
#15. IT IS A FACT that Calvaryland was built to house 200 orphans and homeless but today has only 4 residents, at the last count!
The first 9 facts listed above which were published in the newspaper report were taken verbatim from the Church’s Annual Report 2009. All the 9 items were also investigated by our Internal Auditors and presented to the members at an EGM held on 4 April 2009. ALL the 9 “ allegations” were proven by the Internal Auditors to be TRUE! These were actual transactions and incidences which took place according to accounting records and witnesses which neither PG nor the BOD could deny. Therefore, these items cannot be deemed as "allegations", much as PG and the BOD want all to believe. They even took great pains to ensure that PG's name is not mentioned in the EGM minutes pertaining to this Internal Auditors' presentation. If you have a copy of Calvary Church's 2009 Annual Report, take a look at the EGM minutes and you will see how ridiculous the EGM minutes have appeared. While at it, also take a look at the minutes on lawyer KK Wong's presentation. If you had attended the EGM, you will notice a number of statements in the minutes alluded to KK Wong which he DID NOT say at all. That is creative minuting by PG and the BOD.
Listen to the Internal Auditors’ presentation by clicking on the audio clips below.
Clip #3 : Church Auditors' Statements
The renowned firm of Investigative Accountants which the BOD referred to in their announcement was Ferrier Hodgson. The firm was asked by the BOD to look into the accounts of CIM but this is barking at the wrong tree. They should have been asked to investigate the accounts of the Church because that was where the funds were being channelled from. Therefore, their findings that the accounts of CIM are in order is totally irrelevant.
The BOD knows this and the purpose of their mentioning the appointment of "a renowned firm of Investigative Accountants and a firm of Advocates and Solicitors specializing in criminal practice" in the announcement is merely to hoodwink the church members and the public.
Clip #4 : Forensic Accountant's Statements
The Church website statement also says, "These allegations were presented by the Board of Deacons and deliberated at length by the members of Calvary Church at the EGMs on 15 August, 2008 and 4 April, 2009 and AGM on 19 June, 2009." Listen to Clip 5 to see if this is a true statement. All the AGMs or EGMs so far have always been conducted according to PG's autocratic style. Members' grouses or criticism are always brushed aside, other times promises are made by PG to pacify the members but never intended to be fulfilled. There has not been a single occasion whereby the members' views have been considered as worth listening to, unless the views are in support of PG. It is shocking that one of PG's supporters (Lawyer David Peters) considers fellow church members' request to solve church issues at a General Meeting as HIJACKING THE AGENDA. However, PG & BOD's unscheduled introduction of the church auditors to present their findings without prior notice to members is deemed legitimate.
Clip 5 : "Deliberation" between PG & Members
.
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Calvary Crisis in The Star
The Star newspaper has today published a report on the on-going crisis in Calvary Church under their Metro Section. You can read the report from The Star online portal by clicking on the following link :
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2009/11/18/central/5118315&sec=central
(Thanks to a church member who sent us this scan copy of the newspaper article. On the right is the scan of report on the issues raised at the EGM found in the newspaper but not found in the Star online portal)
************************************************************
On another note, CT received this e-mail on 16 November 2009, in which the writer posed a simple question to us. We publish this so that all who are reading and following the CC Saga will ask themselves that one simple question which is recorded in the last paragraph of this e-mail. This is the view of someone outside of Calvary Church.
Hi brothers & sisters in Christ,
I accidentally stumbled upon your blog site "calvarytoday.blogspot.com" when I surfed the net under Calvary Church. I have heard about the grand plan of your church a couple of years ago but did not follow up on the development towards your church's vision until recently when out of the blue I wonder what has taken place since the news of a RM100 million Calvary Church building plan hit the Star newspaper several years ago.
To start off, what your church is experiencing now is not a surprise to me. Mega churches almost always has a hidden agenda. In your case, money mismanagement by the senior pastor, a compliant board of deacons who are hand pick by the senior pastor, a pastor who shove his feet into the face of his sheeps who rebel, an EGM which is manipulated. These are clear signs of a wrong leadership. I want to lend support here to all you who rebel with a cause, as an outsider but a fellow follower of Christ that what you people are doing is a great show of courage, righteousness and wisdom. Your guys are not blind followers. What puzzles me is why is it so diffficult to remove your pastor. He has no business to lead the church now. In fact to allow him to continue, is to be a fellow comrade in crime. Mis-using God's money for one's own selfish purpose is sinning against God. To let your pastor continue to hold on to his post is to continue to allow him to plunder God's money. And to continue allowing him to do, now that the congregation is aware, is to be a partner in crime. Your congregation has all the facts of his abuse already. The right thing to do now is to remove him through a EGM. And following that, all the money embazzled must be recovered. You can write off the money the thieves stole from you but Do not write off the money the thieves stole from the church because the church's money do not belong to you. What your pastor did is a carbon copy of the many churches in USA and many dirty politicians common practice. That's saying one thing but doing another. Not practicing what one preaches. You can call him a false preacher. His crime is the prove.
In conclusion, may I ask this simple question? Do you want to be accused of being a partner in crime with your pastor? If your answer is no, sack him! God will be your supporter. Satan will be your discourager. Who then do you follow? Fear not if you are doing right. The one who should tremble is the criminal.
**********************************************************
LATEST ADDITION!
CT would like to quote this Comment put in by a Calvarite today, 20 November 2009 to address those who have expressed their disappointment that this matter has been made public in the Star newspaper. No one would have wanted things to get this far but since it has, the question that really begs for an answer from the church leadership NOW is :
WHAT PROACTIVE ACTION IS PG AND THE CHURCH DEACONS GOING TO TAKE, TO AVOID THE SITUATION DETERIORATING FURTHER?
Standing Up for Truth said...
In any conflict there will be supporters for both sides. No matter how wrong or unjust one party has been there will be faithful supporters who will fan them and urge them on. We are not surprised that until now there are still fervent supporters to what PG, pastors and BOD have done against and /or failed to do according to Biblical standards.
But we must understand that Truth and Righteousness is never relative. If it is white it has to be white, no matter how people may argue and say it is black or grey according to their interpretation. Those of the people who say how sad they are about the Star Article and that matters has gone public..and how the Christian faith would have been tarnished, it is humbly submitted that all attempts have been made to all levels of Christian leadership in the country on the matters at hand over the past many months. If PG, pastors and BOD had been Christlike and willing to humble themselves then the turn of events would not have come this far.
It is sad that CC leaders were just too arrogant to acknowledge their mistakes and to say they are sorry and to humble themselves and repent....There have been numerous attempts to talk to PG, pastors and BOD but to no avail. So what makes one not wonder that God will not use people to bring about change in CC and that God's fire can come in different forms. Many months back a visiting pastor prophesied that God's fire will descend at the altars in CC. Don't we believe that God is the righteous and holy God and He shares His glory with no one!
I believe God will never compromise on what is the truth, righteousness and justice because He delights in these. I would rather be supporting and stand up for what is right than compromise with what men perceive is not the proper thing to do when the truth is revealed and it hurts and that further, there are negative consequences that will naturally follow due to such exposures.
November 20, 2009 5:09 PM
http://thestar.com.my/metro/story.asp?file=/2009/11/18/central/5118315&sec=central
(Thanks to a church member who sent us this scan copy of the newspaper article. On the right is the scan of report on the issues raised at the EGM found in the newspaper but not found in the Star online portal)
************************************************************
On another note, CT received this e-mail on 16 November 2009, in which the writer posed a simple question to us. We publish this so that all who are reading and following the CC Saga will ask themselves that one simple question which is recorded in the last paragraph of this e-mail. This is the view of someone outside of Calvary Church.
Hi brothers & sisters in Christ,
I accidentally stumbled upon your blog site "calvarytoday.blogspot.com" when I surfed the net under Calvary Church. I have heard about the grand plan of your church a couple of years ago but did not follow up on the development towards your church's vision until recently when out of the blue I wonder what has taken place since the news of a RM100 million Calvary Church building plan hit the Star newspaper several years ago.
To start off, what your church is experiencing now is not a surprise to me. Mega churches almost always has a hidden agenda. In your case, money mismanagement by the senior pastor, a compliant board of deacons who are hand pick by the senior pastor, a pastor who shove his feet into the face of his sheeps who rebel, an EGM which is manipulated. These are clear signs of a wrong leadership. I want to lend support here to all you who rebel with a cause, as an outsider but a fellow follower of Christ that what you people are doing is a great show of courage, righteousness and wisdom. Your guys are not blind followers. What puzzles me is why is it so diffficult to remove your pastor. He has no business to lead the church now. In fact to allow him to continue, is to be a fellow comrade in crime. Mis-using God's money for one's own selfish purpose is sinning against God. To let your pastor continue to hold on to his post is to continue to allow him to plunder God's money. And to continue allowing him to do, now that the congregation is aware, is to be a partner in crime. Your congregation has all the facts of his abuse already. The right thing to do now is to remove him through a EGM. And following that, all the money embazzled must be recovered. You can write off the money the thieves stole from you but Do not write off the money the thieves stole from the church because the church's money do not belong to you. What your pastor did is a carbon copy of the many churches in USA and many dirty politicians common practice. That's saying one thing but doing another. Not practicing what one preaches. You can call him a false preacher. His crime is the prove.
In conclusion, may I ask this simple question? Do you want to be accused of being a partner in crime with your pastor? If your answer is no, sack him! God will be your supporter. Satan will be your discourager. Who then do you follow? Fear not if you are doing right. The one who should tremble is the criminal.
**********************************************************
LATEST ADDITION!
CT would like to quote this Comment put in by a Calvarite today, 20 November 2009 to address those who have expressed their disappointment that this matter has been made public in the Star newspaper. No one would have wanted things to get this far but since it has, the question that really begs for an answer from the church leadership NOW is :
WHAT PROACTIVE ACTION IS PG AND THE CHURCH DEACONS GOING TO TAKE, TO AVOID THE SITUATION DETERIORATING FURTHER?
Standing Up for Truth said...
In any conflict there will be supporters for both sides. No matter how wrong or unjust one party has been there will be faithful supporters who will fan them and urge them on. We are not surprised that until now there are still fervent supporters to what PG, pastors and BOD have done against and /or failed to do according to Biblical standards.
But we must understand that Truth and Righteousness is never relative. If it is white it has to be white, no matter how people may argue and say it is black or grey according to their interpretation. Those of the people who say how sad they are about the Star Article and that matters has gone public..and how the Christian faith would have been tarnished, it is humbly submitted that all attempts have been made to all levels of Christian leadership in the country on the matters at hand over the past many months. If PG, pastors and BOD had been Christlike and willing to humble themselves then the turn of events would not have come this far.
It is sad that CC leaders were just too arrogant to acknowledge their mistakes and to say they are sorry and to humble themselves and repent....There have been numerous attempts to talk to PG, pastors and BOD but to no avail. So what makes one not wonder that God will not use people to bring about change in CC and that God's fire can come in different forms. Many months back a visiting pastor prophesied that God's fire will descend at the altars in CC. Don't we believe that God is the righteous and holy God and He shares His glory with no one!
I believe God will never compromise on what is the truth, righteousness and justice because He delights in these. I would rather be supporting and stand up for what is right than compromise with what men perceive is not the proper thing to do when the truth is revealed and it hurts and that further, there are negative consequences that will naturally follow due to such exposures.
November 20, 2009 5:09 PM
Monday, November 16, 2009
Is PG a Narcissist?
Someone highlighted to CT this enlightening online article, “Narcissism in the Pulpit” by Grant Swanson of Power2Serve Ministries, which could help us understand what is going on in CC. We have extracted some note worthy statements from the article which is relevant to us in CC, with Bro Grant's permission. Please go to his ministry website for the full Article.
“Generally most church conflict is caused by carnality, selfishness and ambition (1 Cor 3:3)., Combine these sinful behaviors with an antagonist or two and you can have serious conflict problems as we have discussed earlier. Add selfish ambition to these characteristic in the Senior Pastor and spiritual abuse can be meted out in sinful, and destructive ways.”
This is a must-read article because "When you enter the web of the Narcissist, you leave yourself behind." This could explain the total compliance of our associate pastors, deacons and other leaders. “Hopefully by the time you have finished reading the information within this chapter you should be able to have a clear understanding as to whether or not the problems you are experiencing with your pastor are being caused by Narcissistic Personality Disorder.”
Who is a Narcissist?
"The overall definition of someone with a narcissistic personality disorder is characterized by a combination of severe limitations in understanding other people and their feelings, as well as an excessive pursuit of what are called narcissistic supplies, such as admiration, attention, status, understanding, support, money, power, control, or perfection in some form. While all of us need these supplies in adequate amounts to feel a sense of well being, the narcissist pursues them with an unrelenting desperation and a keen ability to manipulate others. Meanwhile the outer persona of the NPD individual is generally one of confidence and control, alongside a smooth or charming demeanor. As your involvement with the narcissist develops you will notice that the relationship increasingly becomes one-way with you in the primary giving position."
“It is close to impossible (to immediately recognize a narcissist) and that is the secret of their astounding success. Narcissists are good actors. They are adept at charming others, persuading them, manipulating them, or otherwise influencing them to do their bidding.”
“Generally most church conflict is caused by carnality, selfishness and ambition (1 Cor 3:3)., Combine these sinful behaviors with an antagonist or two and you can have serious conflict problems as we have discussed earlier. Add selfish ambition to these characteristic in the Senior Pastor and spiritual abuse can be meted out in sinful, and destructive ways.”
This is a must-read article because "When you enter the web of the Narcissist, you leave yourself behind." This could explain the total compliance of our associate pastors, deacons and other leaders. “Hopefully by the time you have finished reading the information within this chapter you should be able to have a clear understanding as to whether or not the problems you are experiencing with your pastor are being caused by Narcissistic Personality Disorder.”
Who is a Narcissist?
"The overall definition of someone with a narcissistic personality disorder is characterized by a combination of severe limitations in understanding other people and their feelings, as well as an excessive pursuit of what are called narcissistic supplies, such as admiration, attention, status, understanding, support, money, power, control, or perfection in some form. While all of us need these supplies in adequate amounts to feel a sense of well being, the narcissist pursues them with an unrelenting desperation and a keen ability to manipulate others. Meanwhile the outer persona of the NPD individual is generally one of confidence and control, alongside a smooth or charming demeanor. As your involvement with the narcissist develops you will notice that the relationship increasingly becomes one-way with you in the primary giving position."
“It is close to impossible (to immediately recognize a narcissist) and that is the secret of their astounding success. Narcissists are good actors. They are adept at charming others, persuading them, manipulating them, or otherwise influencing them to do their bidding.”
The Danger of a Narcissist
The other sections are:
1. How to Identify a Narcissist. This is recommended for church members to read.
2. How to Survive In Relationship with a Narcissist. This is very important for those working with PG especially the associate pastors and the church workers.
3. Around the Board Table. This is especially important for the deacons to read.
Read the full article at:
http://www.power2serve.net/narcissism_in_the_pulpit1.htm
Is PG a narcissist?Go to the link below and complete the check list and you will know.
http://www.power2serve.net/Narcissism%20Checklist.htm
We list here a sample of the symptoms of a Narcissist.
Does PG have any of these symptoms?
1. Self-centered. His needs are paramount and take precedence over the church.
2. No remorse for mistakes or misdeeds. Will not offer heartfelt apologies or ask forgiveness.
3. Projects his faults on to others. High blaming behavior; never his fault.
4. Insensitive to needs and feelings of others
5. Has a good front (persona) to impress and exploit others
6. Rationalizes easily. Twists conversation to his gain at other’s expense. If trapped, keeps talking, changes the subject or gets angry
7. Pathological lying. Will lie if he thinks it will further his image and if he doesn’t think it will be discovered. When lies are followed up on will imply that the other person is mistaken, and that he never said the lie in the first place
8. Often perceived as caring and understanding and uses this to manipulate
9. Secret life. Hides money, friends, activities
10. Seldom expresses appreciation unless he is buttering the person up for further use
11. He announces, not discusses. He tells, not asks
12. Controls money of others but spends freely on himself
13. Very good at reading people, so he can manipulate them
14. Will exaggerate and brag about past accomplishments
15. Will be overly concerned with the ‘image’ of the church building/bulletins etc.
"Realize that a narcissistic pastor is a very real danger both to himself and to the church life. According to Dattner Consulting LLC if the NPD pastor is able to accumulate too much power and prestige, and if others in the church are not able to moderate the narcissist’s destructive impulses, success can soon lead to failure. In the narcissists quest to maintain and promote their fragile self-esteem, the NPD pastor can often ignore or deny reality when it presents itself. They will also exploit the organization in order to attain their own goals. Grandiosity can lead to too much risk taking, and fear of failure can at other times lead to too little risk. With this in mind it becomes necessary to establish appropriate boundaries around the areas of finance, relational power over other staff, the board and other leaders appointed by the congregation. Unfortunately fear is the main deterrent to the narcissist—fear of losing his reputation, and fear of consequences which are clearly delineated and carried out when necessary."
The other sections are:
1. How to Identify a Narcissist. This is recommended for church members to read.
2. How to Survive In Relationship with a Narcissist. This is very important for those working with PG especially the associate pastors and the church workers.
3. Around the Board Table. This is especially important for the deacons to read.
Read the full article at:
http://www.power2serve.net/narcissism_in_the_pulpit1.htm
Is PG a narcissist?Go to the link below and complete the check list and you will know.
http://www.power2serve.net/Narcissism%20Checklist.htm
We list here a sample of the symptoms of a Narcissist.
Does PG have any of these symptoms?
1. Self-centered. His needs are paramount and take precedence over the church.
2. No remorse for mistakes or misdeeds. Will not offer heartfelt apologies or ask forgiveness.
3. Projects his faults on to others. High blaming behavior; never his fault.
4. Insensitive to needs and feelings of others
5. Has a good front (persona) to impress and exploit others
6. Rationalizes easily. Twists conversation to his gain at other’s expense. If trapped, keeps talking, changes the subject or gets angry
7. Pathological lying. Will lie if he thinks it will further his image and if he doesn’t think it will be discovered. When lies are followed up on will imply that the other person is mistaken, and that he never said the lie in the first place
8. Often perceived as caring and understanding and uses this to manipulate
9. Secret life. Hides money, friends, activities
10. Seldom expresses appreciation unless he is buttering the person up for further use
11. He announces, not discusses. He tells, not asks
12. Controls money of others but spends freely on himself
13. Very good at reading people, so he can manipulate them
14. Will exaggerate and brag about past accomplishments
15. Will be overly concerned with the ‘image’ of the church building/bulletins etc.
Wednesday, November 11, 2009
An Open Reply to an E-mail from Overseas.
CT received this e-mail from someone overseas. We believe that what this brother/sister has expressed may be something that some of you out there reading this blog have in mind also. As such, we have decided to reply this e-mail as an Open Letter to all the followers of CT, who may have similar questions. The e-mail reads like this:
"My name is __________. I attended Calvary Church for many years until I moved to _________ in 2000. I am currently residing in ____________. I have been following your blog and the writings with great interest. I also keep in contacts with current Calvarites.
I don't believe in condoning what is wrong. However, I also believe that what the bible says about "he who has no sin casts the first stone". Also, vengeance is mine, says the Lord.
I am a person of vengeful spirit especially when someone does me wrong. The anger that boils inside me wants me to strike back. Recently, a brother in Christ shared with me and made me realized that anger and pride goes hand in hand. God wants us to be humble and approach everything and every situation with humility. I pray that you would do the same. I also pray that you would not hide behind a blog but be open and reveal yourself. Hiding behind a blog and throwing darts is not helping. Going on our knees in humility and prayers before God will.
God bless you."
Our reply to this e-mail:
It is great to know that God has helped you deal with your anger problem and your lesson on humility.
We, the concerned members of Calvary Church, KL, on the other hand, have been called, led together and have responded to God’s leading to do what we are doing not because we have anger in our hearts for any of our Pastors or the Church. In fact, many of us have been in church for many years and some may even be considered the “pillars” of the early Calvary Church.
As individuals, we are all tremendously blessed by God with good jobs, wonderful families and have a passionate heart for God’s work and many are currently actively involved in Christian ministries. Many are also supporting different Christian organizations financially. We believe God has brought us together to stand up firmly for Him to declare His Righteousness and Holiness in this time and age. We are to be the "salt" and the "light" and to be a “city on the hill” for His Name’s sake. We cannot bend or try to blend in together with any form of unrighteousness and ungodly practices especially in the management of God’s Church and God’s money.
We don’t fault you for not knowing who the TTG concerned brother and sisters are.
CT is only a tool used to disseminate information to interested church members (but now includes others like yourself also) who may otherwise have no access to information about the CC Saga from ordinary church members' point of view. The only information that we have gotten from the church leadership so far have been heavily "sugar coated" resulting in "half truths" information, which by the way, was only privy for church leaders and some selected few privileged members. What is announced from the pulpit are sweeping statements, specially tailored to make us "feel good" as someone said earlier in another post. So, your statement that CT is someone "hiding behind a blog and throwing darts," is wrong deduction. We don't blame you since you are residing half way across the world from us. Just to let you know, the darts that you are referring to are the TRUTH of the matter at hand. Truth, sometimes if not always hurts.
Now as to revealing ourselves, we are a group of no less than 50 people at any one point in time. If you are here in KL, you will know us. TTG have no membership. TTG only have volunteers who feel led by God to contribute their share of expertise as and when needed for a specific task. People respond to God’s leading at the perfect timing, to lend the group a helping hand to fulfill the purpose that God has, to carry out His Will at very specific times, in this journey. TTG have not been in any desperate need to ask anyone for help to get things done. We don't need to because God has always sent someone with the right expertise to do the job that was needed to be done.
To recollect such occasions, we relate to you this incident. When Dr Lum's interview was published, a brother volunteered his help to translate that post into the Chinese language to benefit our Chinese congregation. After doing that, he decided to worship in another church. He was really a man sent by God to fulfill His plan. Then when all the documents were complied for distribution to members at the EGM held on 15 August 2008, another brother volunteered to print the pages for free. Then another brother volunteered some workers to stand outside the church and at the carpark area to distribute the handouts. Everything was done so smoothly because God sent people to do a little part each. No one went out of the way to scout for helpers. People came on board to support the group's effort on their own accord after hearing about the task at hand. TTG have only so far asked for support in the form of signature campaigns during the earlier “teh-tarik” meetings.
We do nothing in our personal capacity but everything is done in unity of spirit among brethren, always being mindful of the Holy Spirit's leading and guiding, even though we are a group made up of many individuals from diverse backgrounds and personalities. It is really amazing to see how God motivates each one of us to move very differently and at different times and yet at the same time, to coordinate so well as a group, is unbelievable. Only God in His great wisdom and understanding, can unite a group of people with such diversity and only God’s people who are responding to the call that God has impressed on them, that the cause for TTG – Truth, Transparency and Godly Governance, can be accomplished and persevered on till this day. When one person completes his task, God calls another one in to carry on the next task, and this has been going on from the beginning. So how do you “reveal” the TTG people? TTG is many brothers and sisters in Christ, called by God, brought together by the Holy Spirit, all with a common love and dedication for our Lord Jesus Christ, so that no one can claim glory for themselves.
As to your exhortation for us to go on our knees to humbly pray, we would like to ask you to read back the past articles in the category of “Prayer & Testimonies” in this blog.
At very important thresh holds of time in this journey, God spoke to us through the "rainbows" that was shared by one church member which gave us encouragement to continue on the journey even though we have no clue what to do next. He has sent many prayer warriors to talk to different individuals which has brought light and understanding to the group when we needed it.
Many in the group also network with Pastors and friends, locally and overseas, who are constantly praying for God’s will to be accomplished in Calvary Church. The most recent word from the Lord which was delivered to us through someone is this: Someone while praying for our CC Saga received a vision of many "tears" as in someone crying. In the last two weeks, different individuals have shared that during their personal devotion and Bible reading time, they were impressed to read Jeremiah. One person read Jeremiah 8 & 9. Another was impressed to read Jeremiah 12 & 13. We hope that you too will read the Book of Jeremiah and allow God to speak to you personally. Ask God to reveal to you, who have cried those tears?
Every “revelation” in this blog, has been timed by God Himself and actually furnished by God Himself too. The different articles written by different individuals were written and sent in by their own accord. Others were already written by members and CT only sought their permission to publish – CT did not ask for it to be written. Including this e-mail of yours which today serves as an Open Letter so that many readers like yourself can have a better understanding of this whole CC Saga and TTG. To the group, your e-mail is by no means accidental. Like many of us, we believe you have responded to God’s soft prompting without even realizing it and CT and TTG give praise to God for that.
CT would like to put on record once again, our gratitude to our Sovereign God and our Lord Jesus Christ for sending the Holy Spirit to be our constant guide in this journey through a very difficult and trying time in the history of Calvary Church. Indeed, without God, CT can do nothing. If you are thankful for the information that you have gotten from visiting CT, please express your "thanks" to God our Heavenly Father to whom Calvary Church belongs to. There is no one you can say "thank you" to, except to God and our Lord Jesus Christ, without whom, CT would have been wiped out long ago. The fact that you, who is residing half way across the world is reading what is published in CT, is a testimony of God's hand and faithfulness to us all.
It will be Christmas time again very soon. CT wish you a Blessed Christmas and God Bless You Too.
"My name is __________. I attended Calvary Church for many years until I moved to _________ in 2000. I am currently residing in ____________. I have been following your blog and the writings with great interest. I also keep in contacts with current Calvarites.
I don't believe in condoning what is wrong. However, I also believe that what the bible says about "he who has no sin casts the first stone". Also, vengeance is mine, says the Lord.
I am a person of vengeful spirit especially when someone does me wrong. The anger that boils inside me wants me to strike back. Recently, a brother in Christ shared with me and made me realized that anger and pride goes hand in hand. God wants us to be humble and approach everything and every situation with humility. I pray that you would do the same. I also pray that you would not hide behind a blog but be open and reveal yourself. Hiding behind a blog and throwing darts is not helping. Going on our knees in humility and prayers before God will.
God bless you."
Our reply to this e-mail:
It is great to know that God has helped you deal with your anger problem and your lesson on humility.
We, the concerned members of Calvary Church, KL, on the other hand, have been called, led together and have responded to God’s leading to do what we are doing not because we have anger in our hearts for any of our Pastors or the Church. In fact, many of us have been in church for many years and some may even be considered the “pillars” of the early Calvary Church.
As individuals, we are all tremendously blessed by God with good jobs, wonderful families and have a passionate heart for God’s work and many are currently actively involved in Christian ministries. Many are also supporting different Christian organizations financially. We believe God has brought us together to stand up firmly for Him to declare His Righteousness and Holiness in this time and age. We are to be the "salt" and the "light" and to be a “city on the hill” for His Name’s sake. We cannot bend or try to blend in together with any form of unrighteousness and ungodly practices especially in the management of God’s Church and God’s money.
We don’t fault you for not knowing who the TTG concerned brother and sisters are.
CT is only a tool used to disseminate information to interested church members (but now includes others like yourself also) who may otherwise have no access to information about the CC Saga from ordinary church members' point of view. The only information that we have gotten from the church leadership so far have been heavily "sugar coated" resulting in "half truths" information, which by the way, was only privy for church leaders and some selected few privileged members. What is announced from the pulpit are sweeping statements, specially tailored to make us "feel good" as someone said earlier in another post. So, your statement that CT is someone "hiding behind a blog and throwing darts," is wrong deduction. We don't blame you since you are residing half way across the world from us. Just to let you know, the darts that you are referring to are the TRUTH of the matter at hand. Truth, sometimes if not always hurts.
Now as to revealing ourselves, we are a group of no less than 50 people at any one point in time. If you are here in KL, you will know us. TTG have no membership. TTG only have volunteers who feel led by God to contribute their share of expertise as and when needed for a specific task. People respond to God’s leading at the perfect timing, to lend the group a helping hand to fulfill the purpose that God has, to carry out His Will at very specific times, in this journey. TTG have not been in any desperate need to ask anyone for help to get things done. We don't need to because God has always sent someone with the right expertise to do the job that was needed to be done.
To recollect such occasions, we relate to you this incident. When Dr Lum's interview was published, a brother volunteered his help to translate that post into the Chinese language to benefit our Chinese congregation. After doing that, he decided to worship in another church. He was really a man sent by God to fulfill His plan. Then when all the documents were complied for distribution to members at the EGM held on 15 August 2008, another brother volunteered to print the pages for free. Then another brother volunteered some workers to stand outside the church and at the carpark area to distribute the handouts. Everything was done so smoothly because God sent people to do a little part each. No one went out of the way to scout for helpers. People came on board to support the group's effort on their own accord after hearing about the task at hand. TTG have only so far asked for support in the form of signature campaigns during the earlier “teh-tarik” meetings.
We do nothing in our personal capacity but everything is done in unity of spirit among brethren, always being mindful of the Holy Spirit's leading and guiding, even though we are a group made up of many individuals from diverse backgrounds and personalities. It is really amazing to see how God motivates each one of us to move very differently and at different times and yet at the same time, to coordinate so well as a group, is unbelievable. Only God in His great wisdom and understanding, can unite a group of people with such diversity and only God’s people who are responding to the call that God has impressed on them, that the cause for TTG – Truth, Transparency and Godly Governance, can be accomplished and persevered on till this day. When one person completes his task, God calls another one in to carry on the next task, and this has been going on from the beginning. So how do you “reveal” the TTG people? TTG is many brothers and sisters in Christ, called by God, brought together by the Holy Spirit, all with a common love and dedication for our Lord Jesus Christ, so that no one can claim glory for themselves.
As to your exhortation for us to go on our knees to humbly pray, we would like to ask you to read back the past articles in the category of “Prayer & Testimonies” in this blog.
At very important thresh holds of time in this journey, God spoke to us through the "rainbows" that was shared by one church member which gave us encouragement to continue on the journey even though we have no clue what to do next. He has sent many prayer warriors to talk to different individuals which has brought light and understanding to the group when we needed it.
Many in the group also network with Pastors and friends, locally and overseas, who are constantly praying for God’s will to be accomplished in Calvary Church. The most recent word from the Lord which was delivered to us through someone is this: Someone while praying for our CC Saga received a vision of many "tears" as in someone crying. In the last two weeks, different individuals have shared that during their personal devotion and Bible reading time, they were impressed to read Jeremiah. One person read Jeremiah 8 & 9. Another was impressed to read Jeremiah 12 & 13. We hope that you too will read the Book of Jeremiah and allow God to speak to you personally. Ask God to reveal to you, who have cried those tears?
Every “revelation” in this blog, has been timed by God Himself and actually furnished by God Himself too. The different articles written by different individuals were written and sent in by their own accord. Others were already written by members and CT only sought their permission to publish – CT did not ask for it to be written. Including this e-mail of yours which today serves as an Open Letter so that many readers like yourself can have a better understanding of this whole CC Saga and TTG. To the group, your e-mail is by no means accidental. Like many of us, we believe you have responded to God’s soft prompting without even realizing it and CT and TTG give praise to God for that.
CT would like to put on record once again, our gratitude to our Sovereign God and our Lord Jesus Christ for sending the Holy Spirit to be our constant guide in this journey through a very difficult and trying time in the history of Calvary Church. Indeed, without God, CT can do nothing. If you are thankful for the information that you have gotten from visiting CT, please express your "thanks" to God our Heavenly Father to whom Calvary Church belongs to. There is no one you can say "thank you" to, except to God and our Lord Jesus Christ, without whom, CT would have been wiped out long ago. The fact that you, who is residing half way across the world is reading what is published in CT, is a testimony of God's hand and faithfulness to us all.
It will be Christmas time again very soon. CT wish you a Blessed Christmas and God Bless You Too.
