What does it mean to grow old with grace, purpose, and joy?
In this second episode of DIS Conversation, we explore the beauty and depth of life’s later seasons. Pastor Ray sits down with Geok Cheng, and Alvin— two individuals whose lives reflect what it truly means to age with purpose, faith, and joy.
Listen in as they share heartfelt stories of grandparenting, ministry, health challenges, and spiritual growth in their senior years. From singing Sunday School songs with grandchildren to leading church-wide events after retirement, their journeys are rich with wisdom, vulnerability, and faith.
💬 “Don’t write off the seniors—we haven’t reached our expiry date!”💬 “Ministry is not just programmes—it’s presence, listening, and love.”
Whether you're a senior, caring for one, or simply want to understand how to finish life’s race well, this episode will inspire and challenge you. So grab a cup of tea, settle in, and join us as we discover how ageing can be not just endured—but embraced—as a deeply fulfilling journey.
*******
DIS Conversation is an insightful podcast by Wesley Methodist Church that explores real-life societal issues through the lens of Christian discipleship. With heartfelt conversations and practical reflections, each episode encourages believers to live out their faith with compassion and purpose—bringing Christ’s love into everyday spaces and serving His purpose in the world.
About Our Guest
Koh Geok Cheng is married to Henry Tan. They have 2 married adult sons and are grandparents to a 4½ months old grandson. Geok Cheng was an accountant and retired 25 years ago to be homemaker to raise her sons. She has served in the Parents Support Group in her sons’ schools, and in various ministries in church including Family Life, Small Group Ministry, Missions and WSCS. Currently she serves as a worship leader in the Traditional service and as Chairperson of Glowing Years Ministry (GYM).
Alvin Tay retired as a newspaper editor in 2018 and now spends his time in church ministry and a charity he co-founded. Alvin is the Chairperson of the Local Church Executive Committee (LCEC). He and his wife, Wendy Tan, are known among their circle of friends in church as the A&W couple. A&W enjoy baby-sitting their first grandson, Micah. They have two sons, Daryl and Keefe, who are married to Gina and Charlotte, respectively.
About Pastor Ray:
Rev Raymond Fong, known in the church community as Pastor Ray, is the Pastor-in-Charge of Wesley Methodist Church.
Wesley Podcast introduces a new podcast series, “DIS Conversation”, to talk about issues in society today. This is in line with Wesley Methodist Church’s Directions 2025, Discipleship in Society.
In this first episode on “Loneliness", Pastor Ray and Ms Charmaine Lim explore the profound impact of loneliness on singles and the broader community. Charmaine shares her struggles with loneliness and finding unexpected blessings and a richer life through singleness. Inspired by Henri Nouwen's writings, she discusses transforming loneliness into solitude and finding communion with God.
They highlight the importance of community and practical steps the church can take to support those feeling isolated. Charmaine addresses the challenges singles face, including unhelpful comments and misconceptions, and shares positive experiences of being included in families' lives.
The conversation also touches on the stigma of loneliness, the reality of marital loneliness, and the need for authentic connections beyond social media.
Tune in to this call to action for the church to foster a more supportive and inclusive community where everyone, including singles, can find companionship and spiritual growth.
*******
Join Charmaine as she prepares for an upcoming women-only talk on loneliness, organised by Wesley WSCS. For more information on “Finding Christ & Community through Seasons of Loneliness”, visit this page:
https://wesley.sg/findingchristncomm-event
About Our Guest
Charmaine is currently an in-house legal counsel in a bank. She is a member of Wesley Methodist Church and is serving in the Small Group Ministry, as an usher in TSS, and a facilitator for Companions in Christ. She is also passionate about Christian Spirituality and exploring what fruitful Christian singlehood looks like. She loves spending time with her family, especially her lovely niece and nephew, and her wonderful godchildren.
About Wesley Women’s Society of Christian Service (WSCS):
Visit this page for more info: https://wesley.sg/about-wscs
About Pastor Ray:
Rev Raymond Fong, known in the church community as Pastor Ray, is the Pastor-in-Charge of Wesley Methodist Church.
Lectio Divina 7 | Seven Signs In John
Death and Resurrection of Jesus ( John 20:1-31)
19 April 2025
Facilitator:
Ms Liana Seah
Chairperson
BeTween Ministry
This is an audio guide in a time of sacred reading, "Lectio Divina", as we read and reflect on Scripture, and more importantly, respond to what God may be saying to us.
Find a quiet space and quieten your heart before you begin. Sit comfortably, both feet on the ground. Have your Lent Devotional or journal and pen ready for you to jot down your thoughts and reflections.
_________________________
Lectio Divina, which means sacred or holy reading, is an ancient practice of Christian meditation. It has four basic movements: lectio (reading), meditatio (reflecting), oratio (responding to God), and contemplatio (receiving and resting in God).
Or simply the 4Rs – Read, Reflect, Respond, Rest.
Over the seven Saturdays during this Season of Lent, church leaders of Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, will take turns to guide you through a session of lectio divina, adapting from one of the exercises in the Companions in Christ spiritual formation course.
To find out more about Lent 2025, click here.
For more information on Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, visit this link.
Lectio Divina 6 | Seven Signs In John
Raising Of Lazarus (John 9:1-16)
12 April 2025
Facilitator:
Ms Wendy Tan
Companions in Christ Volunteer
Discipleship & Nurture
This is an audio guide in a time of sacred reading, "Lectio Divina", as we read and reflect on Scripture, and more importantly, respond to what God may be saying to us.
Find a quiet space and quieten your heart before you begin. Sit comfortably, both feet on the ground. Have your Lent Devotional or journal and pen ready for you to jot down your thoughts and reflections.
_________________________
Lectio Divina, which means sacred or holy reading, is an ancient practice of Christian meditation. It has four basic movements: lectio (reading), meditatio (reflecting), oratio (responding to God), and contemplatio (receiving and resting in God).
Or simply the 4Rs – Read, Reflect, Respond, Rest.
Over the seven Saturdays during this Season of Lent, church leaders of Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, will take turns to guide you through a session of lectio divina, adapting from one of the exercises in the Companions in Christ spiritual formation course.
To find out more about Lent 2025, click here.
For more information on Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, visit this link.
Lectio Divina 5 | Seven Signs In John
Healing The Blind Man On The Sabbath (John 9:1-16)
5 April 2025
Facilitator:
Mr Kevyn Lai
Pastoral Team Member
Organisational Learning and Development Ministry
This is an audio guide in a time of sacred reading, "Lectio Divina", as we read and reflect on Scripture, and more importantly, respond to what God may be saying to us.
Find a quiet space and quieten your heart before you begin. Sit comfortably, both feet on the ground. Have your Lent Devotional or journal and pen ready for you to jot down your thoughts and reflections.
_________________________
Lectio Divina, which means sacred or holy reading, is an ancient practice of Christian meditation. It has four basic movements: lectio (reading), meditatio (reflecting), oratio (responding to God), and contemplatio (receiving and resting in God).
Or simply the 4Rs – Read, Reflect, Respond, Rest.
Over the seven Saturdays during this Season of Lent, church leaders of Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, will take turns to guide you through a session of lectio divina, adapting from one of the exercises in the Companions in Christ spiritual formation course.
To find out more about Lent 2025, click here.
For more information on Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, visit this link.
Lectio Divina 4 | Seven Signs In John
Feeding of the 5,000 (John 6:1-15)
29 March 2025
Facilitator:
Ms Charmaine Lim
Companions in Christ Facilitator
Discipleship & Nurture
This is an audio guide in a time of sacred reading, "Lectio Divina", as we read and reflect on Scripture, and more importantly, respond to what God may be saying to us.
Find a quiet space and quieten your heart before you begin. Sit comfortably, both feet on the ground. Have your Lent Devotional or journal and pen ready for you to jot down your thoughts and reflections.
_________________________
Lectio Divina, which means sacred or holy reading, is an ancient practice of Christian meditation. It has four basic movements: lectio (reading), meditatio (reflecting), oratio (responding to God), and contemplatio (receiving and resting in God).
Or simply the 4Rs – Read, Reflect, Respond, Rest.
Over the seven Saturdays during this Season of Lent, church leaders of Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, will take turns to guide you through a session of lectio divina, adapting from one of the exercises in the Companions in Christ spiritual formation course.
To find out more about Lent 2025, click here.
For more information on Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, visit this link.
Lectio Divina 3 | Seven Signs In John
Healing the Man at the Pool (John 5:1-11)
22 March 2025
Facilitator:
Mr Shaun Tan and Ms Hoo Feng Wen
Zone 4 Leaders
Small Group Ministry
This is an audio guide in a time of sacred reading, "Lectio Divina", as we read and reflect on Scripture, and more importantly, respond to what God may be saying to us.
Find a quiet space and quieten your heart before you begin. Sit comfortably, both feet on the ground. Have your Lent Devotional or journal and pen ready for you to jot down your thoughts and reflections.
_________________________
Lectio Divina, which means sacred or holy reading, is an ancient practice of Christian meditation. It has four basic movements: lectio (reading), meditatio (reflecting), oratio (responding to God), and contemplatio (receiving and resting in God).
Or simply the 4Rs – Read, Reflect, Respond, Rest.
Over the seven Saturdays during this Season of Lent, church leaders of Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, will take turns to guide you through a session of lectio divina, adapting from one of the exercises in the Companions in Christ spiritual formation course.
To find out more about Lent 2025, click here.
For more information on Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, visit this link.
Lectio Divina 2 | Seven Signs In John
Healing The Official's Son (John 4:46-54)
15 March 2025
Facilitator:
Ms Wong Ee Hwee
Pastoral Team Member, Worship & Music Ministry
This is an audio guide in a time of sacred reading, "Lectio Divina", as we read and reflect on Scripture, and more importantly, respond to what God may be saying to us.
Find a quiet space and quieten your heart before you begin. Sit comfortably, both feet on the ground. Have your Lent Devotional or journal and pen ready for you to jot down your thoughts and reflections.
_________________________
Lectio Divina, which means sacred or holy reading, is an ancient practice of Christian meditation. It has four basic movements: lectio (reading), meditatio (reflecting), oratio (responding to God), and contemplatio (receiving and resting in God).
Or simply the 4Rs – Read, Reflect, Respond, Rest.
Over the seven Saturdays during this Season of Lent, church leaders of Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, will take turns to guide you through a session of lectio divina, adapting from one of the exercises in the Companions in Christ spiritual formation course.
To find out more about Lent 2025, click here.
For more information on Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, visit this link.
Lectio Divina 1 | Seven Signs In John
Turning Water Into Wine (John 2:1-12)
8 March 2025
Facilitator:
Rev Raymond Fong
Pastor-in-charge
Wesley Methodist Church
Lectio Divina, which means sacred or holy reading, is an ancient practice of Christian meditation. It has four basic movements: lectio (reading), meditatio (reflecting), oratio (responding to God), and contemplatio (receiving and resting in God).
Or simply the 4Rs – Read, Reflect, Respond, Rest.
Over the seven Saturdays during this Season of Lent, church leaders of Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, will take turns to guide you through a session of lectio divina, adapting from one of the exercises in the Companions in Christ spiritual formation course.
To find out more about Lent 2025, click here.
For more information on Wesley Methodist Church, Singapore, visit this link.
Success – a pursuit for many, a symbol of significance and importance. But is it truly so?
In this episode of Workplace Conversations, Pastor Ray delves into the inspiring journey of Mr Maurice Tan, who transitioned from corporate success to finding true significance. Maurice shares his unique perspective on balancing ambition with purpose and finding fulfilment beyond traditional measures of success.
Discover how resilience and faith can guide you through life’s challenges, and gain practical advice on staying grounded and finding peace. Whether you’re starting your career, thriving in your role, or contemplating a change, join us for an enlightening conversation that offers wisdom and biblical principles to help you redefine success and set your sights on achieving true significance.
About Our Guest
Maurice most recently served as Senior Consultant at the Ministry of Health Office for Healthcare Transformation, focusing on digital mental health solutions and population health strategies. He also holds advisory and academic roles at NUS, NTU, and SMU, mentoring and directing programs. Previously, he was Deputy CEO of the Health Promotion Board, leading public health services and digital transformations. Maurice has extensive experience in business strategy and operations, including senior roles at Microsoft in Asia. His career spans marketing, sales, and leadership across various industries, emphasising consumer-facing businesses and public service interventions.
About Pastor Ray:
Rev Raymond Fong, known in the church community as Pastor Ray, is the Pastor-in-Charge of Wesley Methodist Church.
Join us in this insightful podcast, hosted by Pastor Ray, as our guests, Ms Josephine Loo and Mr Nijendra Mahendra (Nij) open up on the highs and lows of living out one’s faith in the building and construction industry.
Discover how professionals navigate ethical dilemmas, manage project changes, and maintain integrity while witnessing the fruits of their labor and divine providence. Hear inspiring stories of God’s provision during challenging times, including navigating the COVID-19 pandemic with faith and resilience. Learn about the spiritual principles that guide them, such as seeking God’s kingdom first and relying on His strength.
This episode offers encouragement and wisdom for industry professionals to focus on God, trust in His guidance, and honor Him in their work.
About Our Guests
Josephine is an architect in the construction industry. She is currently the Chairperson of Wesley Methodist Church’s Property Management Committee (PMC) and is also a Small Group member of HUIOS. Her outlook is to do God's work and seeks more volunteers to join her in the PMC. She is happily married to Terence Wee and share a teenage daughter, Elizabeth.
Nij is a Civil Engineer by training and owns an engineering & construction company. He has served in various leadership roles in ministries within and outside of Wesley Methodist Church. Currently, he is the Chairperson of the Prayer & Praise Ministry in Wesley and is also on the Board of Witness & Evangelism for the Trinity Annual Conference Singapore. Nij is married to Carole and they have 2 teenage daughters, Mikayla & Marissa. He loves playing and watching various sports and is a long suffering fan of Tottenham Hotspurs Football Club.
About Pastor Ray:
Rev Raymond Fong, known in the church community as Pastor Ray, is the Pastor-in-Charge of Wesley Methodist Church.
In this enlightening Episode 4 of Workplace Conversations, we delve into the multifaceted world of education in "The Joys and Stresses of Education".
Hosted by Pastor Ray, our guests, Ms Cassie Heng and Ms Jo-Anne Seet, both passionate educators, peel back the layers, revealing the joys, struggles, and transformative moments that define their roles.
They discuss the highs and lows of their work, the role of faith in coping with stress, importance of parent’s role in identity formation and the impact of the education system on mental health. Tune in to discover how they bring hope to young hearts and their advice for the next generation.
About our guests:
Cassie is a young adult who had the privilege of serving as a youth leader in Wesley's Youth Ministry. She works in the Education and Healthcare industry as an Associate Psychologist, supporting preschoolers with special needs, and is passionate about raising up emotionally intelligent children while promoting secure parent-child attachment.
Jo-Anne is an English teacher and has worked in both public and private sectors of education. She is passionate about helping her students realise their hidden potential and working with them to find fulfilment in various areas of their life. She is also currently serving in the worship ministries of the Wesley Traditional and Prayer & Praise Services.
About Pastor Ray:
Rev Raymond Fong, known in the church community as Pastor Ray, is the Pastor-in-Charge of Wesley Methodist Church.
Step into the realm of workplace ethics with this latest episode of “Workplace Conversations.” Join Pastor Ray, Ms Wong Sook Ling, and Mr Hargaven Gill as they explore the moral maze of professional life in “Ethics, Challenges and Pursuits.”
From standing by a struggling team member to navigating the murky waters of career advancement, our speakers unpack the complexities of making choices that are consistent with professional ethics and Christian values. Tune in to hear their candid confessions and the wisdom gleaned from their experiences, all while striving to align their actions with the compass of integrity and faith in a demanding corporate world.
About our guests:
Sook Ling has been an in-house counsel in financial industry for more than 20 years. She enjoys problem solving, working with stakeholders, and is committed to building nurturing and supportive work environment. Currently she’s on a career break to recharge and explore new interests.
Hargaven is a first generation Wesleyan learning to marry ministry, home and workplace responsibilities. He is also a surgeon in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic surgery.
About Pastor Ray:
Rev Raymond Fong, known in the church community as Pastor Ray, is the Pastor-in-Charge of Wesley Methodist Church.
In this second episode of our series, “Workplace Conversations”, Pastor Ray, Ms Cheryl Seow, Mr Aw Choon Hui and Mr Andrew Ng delve into the concept of “Work Life Integration”.
Hear the forthright perspectives, personal struggles and outlooks in life from our guests, who are in different seasons of their lives, address these questions.
About our guests:
Cheryl has around 20 years of work experience in the legal industry, and chairs the Women’s Society of Christian Service at Wesley. She is currently on a career break, to spend quality and quantity time with her two teenage daughters.
Choon Hui is a long-time member and currently serves as the Lay Leader and in various mnistries of the church. He works in the finance industry and sees that as part of his ministry. He is married to Meng Yin and is a father of two and a grandfather of one.
Andrew is a young adult who has the privilege of serving his Small Group as an Assistant Small Group Leader. Andrew enjoys brewing coffee and long cycles, and also works in the legal industry.
About Pastor Ray:
Rev Raymond Fong, known in the church community as Pastor Ray, is the Pastor-in-Charge of Wesley Methodist Church.
Transcript Video:
https://youtu.be/YmgbkMQP1KU
In our inaugural podcast Pastor Ray, Ms Lynn Lau and Mr Shaun Tan talk about ministry in the marketplace and address questions such as:
This is Episode 1 of "Workplace Conversations", a series in line with Wesley Methodist Church's directions for 2024, "Discipleship in the Workplace".
About our guests:
Lynn works in the private equity industry and chairs the Marketplace Ministry at Wesley. She seeks to integrate faith into business, and explore how the investing business can be made more redemptive.
Shaun currently serves in Wesley’s Small Group Ministry & Campus Ministry. He works in the healthcare industry and is passionate about discipling and building up the community for the next generation.
About Pastor Ray:
Rev Raymond Fong, known in the church community as Pastor Ray, is the Pastor-in-Charge of Wesley Methodist Church.
Transcript Video: