Exactly a year ago we suspended church services and Holy Communion because of this pandemic that has since claimed more than 2.6 million lives worldwide. Daily we receive news of how countries are being ravaged by COVID-19.
We give thanks to God for the availability of vaccines in Singapore to help prevent or reduce the severity of this disease amongst us. Some of us have read opinions that express doubts or even doomsday warnings against the COVID-19 vaccinations that are currently available. Some are concerned about any negative side-effects which may emerge in the longer term.
On the other hand, we must weigh such concerns against the endorsement and approval of these vaccines given by our Ministry of Health. The Bible teaches us to weigh contrasting opinions wisely (Proverbs 18:17), and so we must consider the testimony of our doctors who are well-trained to examine and assess the scientific, medical facts against the contrasting opinions of others.
We also remind ourselves of the past and present record where our national vaccination programmes have made once-dreaded diseases such as measles, whooping cough and tuberculosis merely distant memories. It was through vaccinations that smallpox was eradicated and polio tamed worldwide.
Others among us are not so worried about the science and safety of the vaccines, but are afraid of needles and pain. We reckon that Singapore is safe enough even without a vaccine. If this is your thinking, I hope that you will ‘sacrifice’ your own concerns and submit to the VacciNation programme for the sake of your neighbour and fellow Singaporeans. This is one way in which we demonstrate love for God by loving neighbour and nation.
The Methodist Church in Singapore encourages all her members and families to get vaccinated when they are offered the opportunity. We love God by loving our neighbours. Let’s urge each other to play our part in protecting each other. Help those who may have difficulty in registering for an appointment to do so. Offer to accompany any who may need assistance and transport. Encourage those who fear the pain and discomfort of temporary aches and pains.
The more quickly we can achieve 80%-90% of the population vaccinated, the sooner we may be able to return to face to face fellowship over coffee rather than the current fleeting in-and-out-without-lingering experience. We pray for the day we can together sing God’s praises with gusto.
Let’s pray this – not just for ourselves – but for all peoples and places, and especially those who are still unable to procure vaccines to help control the spread of COVID-19.
Let’s Love God By Loving Our Neighbour!
Bishop Dr Gordon Wong
The Methodist Church in Singapore