November 23, 2004

Christmas greetings from the Harveys in Singapore!

This is our “cool season” with temperatures in the low 80s, but that is because it is the monsoon season and it rains nearly every day. When the weather clears, however, the skies are beautiful and the temperature comfortable.

The last few months we have been getting into the swing of things here in Singapore after our time of interpretation in the United States. It was certainly a joy to visit churches and spend time with family and friends from May to August. Always a bit anxious preparing for the trip home in trying to work out transportation, housing, visitation, friends and family, but in the end all worked out well. Reflecting back on our trip, we are all the more aware of God’s providence and timing all along the way.

I encourage you to continue to learn more about what the PC(USA) is doing in mission and why it is essential for the churches to continue to support this work in your prayers and financially.

Though this period was meant as a sabbatical for Tom, it has been a busy one. While in Louisville, Tom met up with a good friend from Duke, Sheldon Sorge, who is now working with the PC(USA)’s office of theology and worship and has headed up a program called a “Company of Pastors” that provides vocational nurture for pastors and ministry candidates in the PC(USA). For some time in Singapore we have been looking to establish a program for the spiritual nurture and formation of our Presbyterian students. Thus, Tom brought the program to our denominational officials and the Presbyterian Church of Singapore will be adopting and adapting the program starting in January with our students here at Trinity Theological College. This program represents something we have wanted to get started for some time. Please keep it in your prayers for it is important for the future of the church.

Tom continues to serve on the General Council of the NCCS, which has advised the government as to the churches’ concerns over the promotion of the gaming industry and the building of casinos in Singapore. It also held meetings with the arts council and leaders of the arts and entertainment industry to express interest in the development of suitable standards for arts and entertainment in Singapore. The NCCS also continues dialogue with other religious groups and religious leaders as well as state officials to promote understanding and harmony in a manner that retains the theological integrity of our churches.

Judy continues her work with the Bible study. There has been a lot of turnover, which is normal for the fast-moving expatriate community here in Singapore, but there has been no loss of interest. Nonetheless, all the activities of the kids as well as teaching keep Judy on her toes.

Joe is in his senior year and is applying for colleges. Both of the boys really want to return to North Carolina. Joe has applied to Davidson and Duke, both fine schools and difficult to get into. Joe continues to advance on the string bass and plays in the orchestra and jazz band. Just last week the drama department put on a great performance of “South Pacific.” Both Joe and Paul are coaching soccer this year. Paul has become a great “swing” dancer, and his group has performed at different venues. Emma is the last of our soccer players; though tough on the field she pursues refined recreation as well in the debutante cottillion dance group that meets weekly at the American Club for dinner and dancing.

With Tom’s sabbatical coming to an end and Joe preparing to leave for some college in the fall, we will have our hands full in the months to come. Do keep us and the churches of Southeast Asia in your prayers.

May you have a blessed Christmas and New Year and do let us know if you are headed this way so we can help you experience the warmth of Singapore.

Blessings from Singapore!

In Christ’s Service,

The Harveys (Tom, Judy, Joe, Paul and Emma)

The 2005 Mission Yearbook for Prayer & Study, p. 125