#161 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 07 30

Article by Wilson Loo

小天使隨伴笨驢兩老往省北蘇市參加完小女兒婚禮，回到老家，吃過晚飯，一眾在後院乘涼，兩老有些兒神不守舍，小天使看在眼內，打笑說：『怎麼啦，捨不得啦？』兩老相對凝視了片刻，笨驢打開話匣：『非也，非也，男大當婚，女大當嫁，我等實在為小女找得個如意郎君，樂極忘形而已。婚禮歡宴，雖因疫情而極度簡單，卻隆重而親切，使我倆更浸淫於其中，現重歸日常，有點兒要適應適應而已。』

笨驢稍頓，曰：『講起適應，近日新冠疫情， 隨著接種疫苗人數不斷增加，疫情明顯好轉，疫情居家限聚令，快將解除，我等宅男宅女，可有一段時間適應矣，欣聞教會亦快將回復實體崇拜，『疫中情』也可『功成身退』矣。

小天使彈指一算，『對啊, 『疫中情』與教友共渡時艱， 自去年三月廿一日開始,不經不覺已差不多一年半了，今天『出版』的已是第161期,是鳴金收兵的日子矣，是將目光從疫情的挑戰中轉過來，看看疫後的挑戰矣。』

小天使沉思片刻，若有所悟，曰：『回顧過去年半極富挑戰性的日子，眼見地球村很多事物都因新冠疫情在改變，經濟活動改變了，生活作息改變了。但也更徹底暴露了世界的貧富懸殊，人命貴賤的天淵之別，而更易看見人性兩極, 這邊廂，有盡忠職守，『站在活人死人中間，瘟疫就止住了』 民16：48； 那邊廂, 有自私自利，自以為是， 妄信謠言， 害己害人的. 』

笨驢接曰：『這段困難的日子著實帶來不少挑戰，唯亦帶來不少屬靈反省的機會，更親身經歷到使徒保羅在羅馬書第五章所講，『…就是在患難中，也是歡歡喜喜，因為知道患難生忍耐，忍耐生老練，老練生盼望，盼望不至於羞恥… 因為所賜給我們的聖靈，將神的愛澆灌在我們心裡。』羅 5：3－5

笨驢續曰: 『這年半以來，我們從患難到忍耐，從忍耐到老練，從老練到盼望，此刻如同走到長長漆黑隧道的盡頭，外面的耀眼強光把我們照射得頭眩眼花，看也看不得清楚，前路如何走,卻真是要洞悉聖靈的帶領，行出天父的心意。林寶珠牧師在她七月份的牧函,可真是神給我們的合時雨。祈望教友細心閱讀，更將牧函內的問題，加以祈禱作答. 』

小天使搶著說，『五個問題，且聽我道來：

1. 我們究竟是誰我們究竟是誰--作為一間教會，作為一種聖工，作為居住在密市或周邊作為一間教會，作為一種聖工，作為居住在密市或周邊地方的一名基督徒？地方的一名基督徒？

2. 現在我們從疫情隔離限制之下走出來，作為一間教會，我們應向甚麼現在我們從疫情隔離限制之下走出來，作為一間教會，我們應向甚麼方向，甚麼目標再出發呢？目的地何在呢？你認為神在呼召我們作甚方向，甚麼目標再出發呢？目的地何在呢？你認為神在呼召我們作甚麼的工呢？麼的工呢？

3. 我們怎樣才能去到目的地，達到我們的目標呢？我們怎樣才能去到目的地，達到我們的目標呢？

4. 為要見到此事工得以成就，為達到此目標，我自己願意作甚麼的工，為要見到此事工得以成就，為達到此目標，我自己願意作甚麼的工，我自己願意付出甚麼呢？我自己願意付出甚麼呢？ 我在頌主堂的身份是甚麼我在頌主堂的身份是甚麼?? 我是誰呢我是誰呢??

5. 當上帝細看頌主堂時，上帝看見甚麼呢？』當上帝細看頌主堂時，上帝看見甚麼呢？』

笨驢曰：『真棒，小鬼頭，此事就交你代辦好了，你替我聯絡各團契小組，

笨驢曰：『真棒，小鬼頭，此事就交你代辦好了，你替我聯絡各團契小組，請她們在跟著數星期，為此祈禱，求聖靈帶領，回答以上問題，並將答請她們在跟著數星期，為此祈禱，求聖靈帶領，回答以上問題，並將答案記錄下來，林牧師亦會同步作此屬靈練習，計劃案記錄下來，林牧師亦會同步作此屬靈練習，計劃在秋季時大家一齊聚在秋季時大家一齊聚集，看看神為頌主堂並每一個信徒預備了甚麼。』集，看看神為頌主堂並每一個信徒預備了甚麼。』

小天使一聲『領命』， 飛奔去了。飛奔去了。

Little angel accompanied stubborn donkey and spouse to Sault in Northern Ontario to attend the wedding of their younger daughter. Having returned to their hometown and having had dinner, they gathered in the backyard to enjoy the shade. The elderly couple seemed a bit ill at ease. Little angel took it to his heart, and said, "What's the matter? Missing your girl, eh?” The two elders stared at each other for a moment.

Stubborn donkey opened the chatterbox: "No, no. When men and women grow up, they get married. We are really happy for our daughter that she finds such a nice young man as her life time companion. The wedding and the reception were so simple due to pandemic restrictions, and yet so elegant and cozy, that made us all the more totally immersed in it. Now that we are back to our daily routine, it probably would take us a bit more time to adjust.”

Stubborn donkey paused for a while, and continued. “ Talking about adjustment, with the increasing number of people getting the Covid vaccine, the pandemic situation is gradually improving: restrictions are being lifted in stages. We who have remained to a large extent homebound, would need some time to readjust to the change. As well, the church will soon be restarting in-person worship, so, the “Love in Pandemic” email network, having fulfilled its objective successfully, can be put on a halt.”

Little angel did some calculations, “Oh, yes, “ Love in Pandemic” has been accompanying our parishioners since the lockdown from March 21 last year, for a total of nearly one-and-a-half-year now. Today’s issue is number 161. It has served its purpose well and is a good time for it to wind down, so that we can shift our focus from the challenges IN the pandemic to the challenges AFTER the pandemic!”

Little angel contemplated for a while, continued, “Looking back at the past one-and-a-half year, life has really been challenging. So much has changed in the global village: economic activities have changed, livelihood for so many has changed. And the pandemic also completely exposed the disparity between the rich and the poor in the world and the vast difference in the value of lives of the rich and the poor in the eyes of men. It’s all too easy to see the polarities of human nature. On the one hand, there are those who are dedicated to their duties and “stood between the living and the dead. And the plague stopped” (Numbers 16:48). On the other hand, there are those who are selfish, self-righteous, believe in rumours, and disregard harm to oneself and others.

Stubborn donkey nodded, “ Indeed this past 18months have brought with it many challenges, but they also provide many opportunities for spiritual reflection. Some people have personally experienced what Paul the apostle wrote in Romans, “Not only so, but we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.” (Rome 5:3-5)

Stubborn donkey continued, “In this year and a half, we have learnt to persevere during our pandemic challenges; and from perseverance, we have improved in our experience and character; and from our experience and character, we learnt to hope. We are now near the exit of a long dark tunnel. The bright light from the outside makes us feel dizzy so that we cannot see clearly. We don’t know which way to take. Surely we need the guidance of the Holy Spirit, so that we can walk along the path of our Lord. The pastoral letter from Rev. Maria Ling in July arrives at God’s perfect timing. It is sincerely hoped that all parishioners will read it through, pray on it, and then answer the five questions put forward to us.

Little angel rushed to say, “ Yup, 5 questions, let me tell you,

1. Who are we? As a church, as a ministry? As Christians living in and around Mississauga?

2. Where are we as a church headed now as we come out of this time of isolation and quarantine? Where do you think God is calling us to go?

3. How will we get there?

4. What work am I willing to do to make this, see this happen? Who am I within St E’s?

5. What does God see when God looks at St E’s?

Stubborn donkey commented, “good job, naughty. Well, maybe we will ask you to handle this task. Do go and liaise with all the fellowship group leaders, and the non-group members, requesting them to pray for this exercise in the coming few weeks, ponder over these questions and then put down their answers on paper. Rev. Maria Ling will also be doing the same spiritual exercise, and hope to discuss on these questions/topics in the fall season, so as to discern what the Lord has prepared for St. Elizabeth’s Church and for each parishioner.”

Little angel replied, “no problem” and hastily dashed out to coordinate the spiritual exercise among the parishioners.

#160 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 07 27

Article by Yvonne Zheng

今天早上打開網上靈修日程， 讀到一個女仕做麵包的故事。她因家務忙，讓麵團過份發酵。焗出來的麵包外面金黃內裏卻是空心的。空心麵包， 令她想到人往往因別的事情而遠離上帝。對靈命有負面的影響。

在過去一年多的時間，大部份我認識的人都在家工作。在家工作是不是等於多一些時間做自己想做的事呢？有部份人，的確有多餘的時間,在家做蛋糕、做麵包、做家居小裝修、出外接觸大自然或在家「煲劇」。但是有些人的工作量卻比以前多，連休息的時間都沒有。有小朋友的家長，更加活在水深火熱之中。工作之餘還要充當日托保母、網校助教、補習老師、課外活動教練、家中紛争仲裁員和一日三餐大厨等工作。他們隨時或已經變成了空心麵包。 我們在生活忙亂之中，有沒有與上帝疏離？又或者我們在忙亂之中更加信靠上帝？希望大家都能每天抽出時間做靈修工作。因為「那等候耶和華的必重新得力。他們必如鷹展翅上騰；他們奔跑卻不困倦，行走卻不疲乏。」（以賽亞書四十：三十一）

I recently read a short piece from The Upper Room Daily Devotional by Stacey Elza from West Virginia. Stacey wrote about making bread with just a few ingredients and simple steps. While she was busy with other household chores she forgot about the bread. Her bread turned out to be golden on the outside but hollow in the middle because she left it to rise for too long. In her reflection, Stacey wrote that if we are distracted from God because of our busy life, our spiritual live will suffer. Like a loaf of hollow bread, it looks good on the outside but is empty on the inside.

For the past year and a half, most of the people I know are working from home due to COVID-19. One might think that working from home gives people more time to do things. Things like baking, bread making, doing household repairs, hiking, or binge-watching TV dramas. But if you talk to parents with young children, working from home can be a nightmare when the children are also learning from home. You would be tired too if you have to be the babysitter, teaching assistant, tutor, gym teacher, peacemaker, chef and the parent on top of working from home. I wonder how many parents feel like they have turned into hollow breads.

Dealing with everyday challenges can be tiring and draining. If we do not take care of our spiritual life, we will end up like a loaf of hollow bread. Spending time with God each day is important for our spiritual health. He shall give us strength when we are weary.

” but those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.” (Isaiah 40:31)

#159 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 07 23

Article by Billy Ng

昨日黃昏天氣驟變，狂風大雨好像將要來臨，趕快到後院收拾雜物，免生危險。今天早上天高氣爽，看見後院的菜園，沒被風雨破壞，反而快速成長，看來將快豐收了！

最近媽媽搬入我家居住，為鼓勵她户外走動，每天早上她會為菜苗澆水，更建造高身的菜棚，以免她要彎腰工作，(看附圖) ，她也樂見蔬菜每天不斷成長。看見幼苗於合適的地方、悉心的栽培，就算遇到大風雨，只要有鞏固的根基，也能漸漸成長，成為可供使用的蔬菜。

假若我們說教會是培育信徒的地方，我們應將她建立成為一個合適栽培信徒的地方、提供能讓信徒成長需要的資源；同樣地，信徒們應抓緊信仰的根基下成長，成為主可用的器皿；當遇到挑戰難題的時候，互相幫助、彼此扶持，建立滿有主愛的群體。

頌主堂將在9/12日開始，重開實體崇拜，盼望能盡快回到較理想的正常生活，當然前面的路，還有很多的挑戰，我們可以憑著信心一起面對，正如昔日門徒在海面上，遇到大風浪的時候，耶穌對他們說：「是我，不要怕！」(約翰福音 6:20) ，然後門徒的船立時到達目的地。

人生好像生活在扁舟之中，有平靜、有暴風雨的時候，遇上風暴，當然會懼怕，但是耶穌常與倚靠祂的人同在，祂是我們患難中隨時的幫助，有祂同在，驚慌會變成平安喜樂。求主幫助我們在人生旅途中，全然地信賴主、倚靠主！

#158 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 07 20

Article by Chivas Chu

在今年三月在疫中情分享當中，我提及到彷似上帝給予我們在這疫情中所扮演著的一個角色，如果我們今天在想，疫情快將過去了，一切回復新正常狀態，而我們並沒有作出深刻些的自我反省和改變，那麼現在去做還是來得及的。

疫情年多以來，我體會到要多關心我們身邊不太認識或是在生活上所碰到的人，他們的生活和需要。認識的人當然不在話下。耶穌教導我們，我們做在最小的身上就等如做在祂身上。我相信這「最小」不是指年紀，而是一些被人常常遺忘的，或是一般人看他們是無名小輩‘Nobody’，或是他們在一般人眼中是透明的。如果我們仍有這思想，一起嘗試靠著我們所信的上帝去幫助我們去作出一點改變。

不知道你們有沒有這經歷，我偶然開車到高速公路的出口，會見到有人拿着一張詰紙寫著請幫忙‘please help’等等的一些字句。在安全的情況下，我也會打開車窗，取一些碎錢交給他，然後說願主祝福你‘God bless you’。通常他（她）也會回應願主也祝福你’God bless you too‘. 目的是希望他們也知道我們這羣信上帝的人也希望可以给這羣較不幸的人的一個祝福。我不用多想他拿到的錢作甚麼用途，或是想他們是不務正業等等。而是他們已經告訴了別人他們的需要。試想想，在烈日當頭下去站在高速公路邊討錢也是一個不好受的事情。我在聖經裏也見到耶穌也有許多動了慈心的例子。我們聽了，也渴望可以行出來。或者這就是聖靈的教導和感動。 或許這是我在疫中情跟你們最後的一個分享，好高興能夠透過在這個平台將我個人的所思所想跟大家在主內互相共勉。

#157 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 07 16

Article by Wilson Loo

一個天氣酷熱的傍晚，笨驢開了噴水機，為乾旱的土地灑水，小天使一句『唔該哂』，飛跑到花灑下『乘涼』，讓水花為她稍解熱氣，悠然自得，更哼起歌來. 笨驢見小天使之心情，近幾天好像撥開雲霧,開朗過來，遂問曰：『怎麼啦，明天安省放寬疫情限制，正式進入第三階段重開，有甚麼大計，去散心散心乎？』

小天使稍頓,答曰『由開始打新冠疫苗至今，近半年了，最初以為極速回復正常生活,無奈疫苗供應不穩定，加上『D形變種』病毒肆虐，至使自二三月來，第三波疫情洶湧，醫療系統幾不勝負荷，可幸官民同舟共濟，各守崗位，醫療人員更任勞任怨，而『皇天不負有心人』，新冠疫苗陸續充裕供應，市民亦對醫學科學投以信任一票，雖明白疫苗可能產生副作用，但衡其利害，都爭相捲起衫袖，互相配搭之下，適齡注射省民有八成已接受首針，而接受兩針的也超過五成矣。一如所料，隨著打針人數增加，立桿見影，疫情個案跟著除除降下，由高峰時超過每日四千確診， 降到現在的每天不到二百症, 大家都稍為舒一口氣，但仍未敢有所鬆懈。而雖然很多人無論在經濟或其他方面都受著大小不同的影響，但有異於第二波疫情時之倉猝開關，催使第三波一發幾乎不可收拾，現今大家都沉著氣，步步為營，忍耐著，盼望著,盼望著美好的明天. 』

笨驢頻頻點頭，表示贊同。

小天使好整以暇，伸個懶腰，續曰：『老實說，環顧地球村，我們的安省， 甚至楓葉國，在這回合的抗疫戰中，真的打了一場漂亮的勝仗呀』小天使搔搔頭，問曰：『這可也是經上所說的 『就是在患難中，也是歡歡喜喜的，因為知道患難生忍耐，忍耐生老練，老練生盼望，盼望不至於羞恥，因為所賜給我們的聖靈，將神的愛，澆灌在我們心裡』羅5:3-5』『喂， 笨驢， 明日晚飯，出街堂食，大快朶頤, 一齊慶祝，我請.』

One hot summer evening, stubborn donkey turned on the water sprinkler, hoping to moisten the dried up lawn a bit. Little angel shouted aloud, “thank you.” And he was already lying under the water shower from the sprinkler system, letting the water soak him up and cool him off. He lay there, relaxed, and started humming tunes.

Stubborn donkey noted that little angel’s mood seemed much better these last few days and asked, “what? The provincial pandemic restrictions will be further lifted tomorrow, entering into stage 3 reopening. Any plan to enjoy yourself?”

Little angle paused, and answered, “it is nearly six months since we started on the Covid vaccination program. At first everyone thought that normality would be achieved very soon. However, due to the interruption of supply of the vaccine and the prevalence of the delta variant, the third wave of the pandemic hit us hard since February or March. The healthcare system was barely able to cope. Fortunately, both the government and the public sit together tight in the same boat, guarding their own posts. And the medical personnel gave their very best, walking extra miles for the sick and the needy. The Lord rewarded our dedication. The Covid vaccine supply grew and was maintained. It was good that the public trusted our medical and scientific profession. Although they were aware of the possible side effect of the vaccines, and after they carefully weighed the pros and cons, most if not all strived to get the vaccine done, and soon, so much so that by now, over 80% of the eligible population had got their first shot and over 50% had their full two shots. As predicted, with the increase in people vaccinated, the number of cases fell gradually, dropping from over 4000 cases per day to now under 200 a day.

Everyone breathed a sigh of relief, but not letting one’s guard down. As well, although many people had been suffering economically and otherwise, unlike during the second wave, when the restriction was lifted so abruptly and unprepared, and causing an unrelenting surge in the third wave; now, all remain calm, patient, and composed, taking gingerly steps, one step at a time, and all looking forward and hoping for a better tomorrow.

Stubborn donkey nodded.

Little angel stretched his angel body, continued, “To be honest, looking around the earth village, I can see that our province, and even our country have really done a good job during this phase of the pandemic. Surely we had fought a beautiful battle.”

Little angel scratched his head, “is it not what the scripture says,`…we also glory in our sufferings, because we know that suffering produces perseverance; perseverance, character; and character, hope. And hope does not put us to shame, because God’s love has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit, who has been given to us.’ “

“Hi, stubborn donkey, let’s dine out tomorrow evening, and let us have a big feast to celebrate. I will treat!”

#156 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 07 13

Article by Terence Kim

疫情中的駕車旅行：孩子的看法

金卓年 （盧頌欣譯）

六月下旬，我們去安省的Sault Ste. Marie 市參加我姨姨的婚禮。我外公外婆也有去。以下是我對疫中乘車旅行的看法。

最初車子由車房駛出時，我們都慶祝，因爲已經有超過一年沒有旅行了。但我在心裏其實有點害怕，因爲我未曾打任何新冠防疫針（我未夠年齡）。但當我開始和哥哥玩，我在這8個小時的旅程就放鬆了。

在這次去Sault Ste. Marie 市的旅途有三個不同之處：口罩、社交距離、和進食。我覺得很難記住帶口罩，如果我把口罩遺留在車子裏，我就要回去拿。要保持社交距離就即是要與親戚保持距離，變相很少可以相擁，對我來説實在很困難。進食時很不同。在旅途中休息時，我們不能在店子裏吃東西，要在戶外或車内吃。幸好，我媽媽爸爸早有準備。我們帶了盤子，所以我們在車子裏吃東西也不會搞得太髒！

在 Sault Ste. Marie 市，我應邀吃了幾頓飯，大快朵頤：意式、日式、加拿大式都有。這是有史以來我其中一次最大的食物探索旅程。在婚宴上有很多個我完全未聽過的菜式，是意大利和亞洲菜的融合，我叫它做Italiasian意亞式。

好玩的時間過得很快。不知不覺，我們就已經回家了。這次旅程實在是一個難忘的經歷。雖然有疫情的限制，但旅程的大部分都很刺激，甚至搞笑。我覺得最寶貴的教訓是就算我們在一個困難的情況中，我們仍然可以有個愉快的經歷。

A Child's Perspective on a Road Trip in COVID-19

Terence Kim

In late-June, we headed to Sault Ste. Marie, ON, for my aunt's wedding. My grandpa and grandma were coming too. Here is my perspective on a road trip during the COVID-19 pandemic.

When we first came out of the garage, we celebrated because we hadn't gone on a trip for over a year. Inside though, I was scared because I have not yet received any COVID-19 vaccines (I am not old enough). Once I started playing with my brother, I relaxed for this 8-hour long trip.

There were three things different about this road trip to Sault Ste. Marie: masks, social distancing, and eating. The masks were hard to remember to bring. If I left mine in the car, I would have had to go back and retrieve it. Social distancing meant that we had to stay away from my relatives, which meant not many hugs, and that was so hard for me. Eating was very different. At rest stops, we could no longer eat inside; we had to eat outside or in the car. Luckily, my mom and dad came prepared. We brought trays so that we could eat in the car with little mess!

During my stay in Sault Ste. Marie, I stuffed myself, getting treated to multiple meals: Italian, Japanese, and Canadian cuisines. It was one of the biggest food adventures that I've had. At the wedding dinner, there were so many dishes that I never knew existed. It was an Italian-Asian fusion, and I called it Italiasian.

Fun times passed quickly. Before we knew it, we were back home again. This road trip was an unforgettable experience. Even with the pandemic restrictions, most of the trip was exciting and even funny. I think the most valuable lesson is that even in a difficult situation, we can still have a wonderful experience.

#155 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 07 09

Article by盧頌欣

疫中的畢業禮和婚禮

大兒子第八班畢業了。雖然不能聚首一堂行畢業典禮，但學校出盡法寶舉行慶祝活動。首先，校長在戶外幾個幾個地接見學生和頒證書，好朋友們借此機會在學校外短暫見面。第二天，畢業生乘父母的車子圍繞學校巡遊，老師們在路旁為他們喝采和祝福。車子都繫上氣球、裝飾、和自製的畢業橫額，好熱鬧。晚上有網上聚會，同學們致感謝辭和表演。我大兒子寫了點歌詞來抒發對學校的感情，聽見的老師和同學都很感動。第三天，學校發出一個錄像，有老師的説話，頒獎名單，還有畢業生的名字和他們參與的活動。孩子在疫情裏仍然能有一個很窩心的“畢業禮”, 我很感恩。

妹妹住在一個小鎮，我們在六月下旬參加她的婚禮。婚禮只限男女方近親參與，但同時直播給親戚朋友。教堂内人很少，而且我們都帶著口罩，但大家都歡喜地見證兩人成爲夫妻。至於晚宴，男家父母在後院設立了一個大帳篷，把桌子隔開放，讓大家可以在戶外安全用餐。當晚下微雨，為免帳篷負荷太重，我們久不久就要申手把積水推掉，但大家都不介意。人少的好處是大家可以和所有人傾談，彼此加深認識，而且致辭也輕鬆點。還有，由於人少，大家都來幫忙，我兩個兒子更自告奮勇捧餐。妹妹的婚禮和晚宴確實很特別，我也為她和她丈夫高興。

以前，我們都習慣了用一些固有的方法來慶祝人生的里程碑。雖然今年原定的計劃因疫情被逼改變，但我發現：不一樣的畢業禮和婚禮，一樣的感恩和高興！

A graduation ceremony and a wedding during the pandemic

Joanne Loo

My older son just graduated from Grade 8. The class could not gather for a traditional graduation ceremony, but the school organized a series of celebrations. First, the director met with a few students at a time and gave them their graduation certificates outdoors. Good friends took this opportunity to meet outside the school briefly. The next day, the graduates took part in a parade on their parents’ vehicles around the school. The teachers lined the route to cheer them on and send them best wishes. Many cars came with balloons, decorations, and homemade banners. The atmosphere was incredibly lively and fun. In the evening, the graduates gathered online. Some of them gave thank-you speeches while others performed. My son wrote lyrics to express his love for the school, and his teachers and fellow classmates were very touched. On the third day, the school sent out a video with messages from the teachers, lists of award recipients, as well as a list of all the graduates’ names and their school activities. Given the persistence of the pandemic, I am so glad that my son could still have such a warm graduation.

My sister lives in a small town, and my family drove to attend her wedding late June. The guests of the wedding were limited to close relatives, but the ceremony was live streamed to relatives and friends. Even though there were very few people within the cathedral and we had masks on, we happily witnessed the union of the bride and groom. For the reception, the groom’s parents had set up a large tent in their backyard and spaced out the tables so we could enjoy the dinner safely outdoors. It rained that evening, and we had to be careful not to let the collected rainwater overload the tent. Every once in a while, we had to reach up to push the water off the tent, but no one minded. With so few people, we could easily chat with everyone and get to know one another better, and making a speech was more relaxing. Also, everyone helped move things to the backyard, and my two sons even volunteered to serve the meals. My sister’s wedding and reception were special indeed, and I am happy for her and her husband.

In the past, we were accustomed to certain ways to celebrate major milestones in life. Although our graduation and wedding this year looked quite different because of the pandemic, I am just as grateful and glad!

#154 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 07 06

Article by Grace Liu

同行者

「同行者」這個名字對我來說是很吸引。代表着一份投入、一種承諾、一個委身的盟誓。我認為人生每一個階段都總有一位同行者。打從母腹開始神已經為我選擇了孕育之所。母親與我連體通行。呱呱落地之後，她仍然是那位分秒不離，餵養保護，供應不缺，教導督責之人。直到我找到另一半作同行者，建立了屬於自已的新家庭，母親仍然牽掛不斷。生兒育女進入人生另一個旅程的我, 和身邊另一半同行者面對順境、逆境；短短幾十年，感恩同行者依然有你。

日前，多謝同行者計劃Carol的推廣，我如獲至寶。感恩神己為我找到一位屬靈家之同行者。經過兩次短聚，好感受到當中有一股力量環抱着我倆。在分享經課時，當中有共同回應，一矢中的，感到非常雀躍。又或者從一些分享中我仍心有恐懼，或是愧疚；多謝當時同行者正面回應，我感到獲得支持與認同。最重要是自己不再孤單面對，在軟弱時也得到善意提醒。在信心禱告時互相代求，彼此建立，深信必蒙主垂聽。

今日回望過去，原來自信主冼禮後另一位同行者已經默默打從我獲新生命時候加入了我的生命中。聖靈已經帶領我每日生活。在自我靈修或透過主日學查經分享時，祂都會引領我的心思意念，藉此嘗試明白神的心意。若不是祂一直帶領，過往逆境豈能勝過呢？同行者除了現在和我一齊讀經禱告的姊妹外，原來還有神在其中。節錄自章伯斯所撰寫的 God is Love上是這樣說：「上帝的本質就是愛，祂的愛彰顯在各個方面。其中藉著祂的聖潔，上帝與人同行及交談。衪向人指示當行的路，使人能以享受祂所命定的福樂。」願意你也加入同行者計劃，再一次與主同行，共同建立一個相愛的群體。

#153 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 07 02

Article by Sunny Wong

寄宿学校惨案 王晨

最近在加拿大温哥华原住民寄宿学校的旧址发现了215具学童的遗骸，在沙省又发现了在寄宿学校的周围751个无名孩童坟墓。

其实原住民在加拿大居住已有上千年的历史。当英，法登陆加拿大后，建立了加国。他们占用了原住民的土地，留给他们很小的土地面积让他们居住，又尝试同化他们。在不获家长同意的情况下把他们的子女强行带走，送到寄宿学校接受现代教育，强逼他们说英, 法语及改变宗教信仰。在学校里发生了很多虐待，暴力及性侵犯的事件。不少孩童在残酷的生活环境中得病，死亡。

寄宿学校在加拿大有100多年的历史，有约150,000.00名原住民孩童入住，现在估计其中有约15,000.00名孩童死亡。寄宿学校由教会管理，有44间属罗马天主教，有21间属于圣公会。寄宿学校从1876开始到1996结束，经历了120年。寄宿学校出来的原住民丧失了自己的语言，文化，信仰及与家庭民族的联接，变成不被加拿大现代社会及原住民部落接受的异类，在创伤及压力中，心理出现障碍，导致酗酒，自杀。

经历了漫长的100多年，加拿大终于认识到了自己所犯的错误。由政府到皇家骑警，由教会到教育机构都陆续出面向原住民道歉及赔偿。这段黑暗的历史教导我们不要施己欲与人，上帝创造不同的人类有他的旨意，人类不应用暴力去强逼别人改变，强逼就是犯罪。希望我们能从中吸取教训，不再重蹈覆辙。

历代记下28:10

如今你们有意强逼犹大人和耶路撒冷人做你们的奴婢，你们岂不也有得罪耶和华你们神的事吗？

圣法兰西斯的祷告

使我作你和平之子，

在憎恨之处播下你的爱，

在伤痕之处播下你宽恕，

在怀疑之处播下信心。

使我作你和平之子，

在绝望之处播下盼望，

在幽暗之处播下光明，

在忧愁之处播下欢愉。

使我作 你和平之子，

在赦免时我们便蒙赦免，

在舍去时我们便有所得，

迎接死亡时我们便进入永生。

哦，主啊！

使我少为自己求，

少求受安慰，但求安慰人；

少求被了解，但求了解人；

少求爱，但求全心付出爱。

阿门！

Boarding school tragedy

Sunny Wong

Recently in Canada Vancouver Indigenous residential school site found 215 indigenous child remains, also at Saskatchewan an old boarding school site, found around 751 nameless graves belong to boarding school children.

In fact, Indigenous people have lived in Canada for more than a thousand years. When Britain and France landed in Canada, they established a country. They occupied the land of indigenous peoples, gave them a small land area to let them live. They try to assimilate them. Without obtaining parental consent to send their children to boarding school to get modern education, force them to speak English and French and compelled them to change religion. There have been many incidents of abuse, violence and sexual assault in schools. Many children got sick and died in the cruel living environment.

Boarding school in Canada has more than 100-year history, there has approximately 150,000.00 Indigenous children stayed in school, of which about 15,000.00 children died. Boarding schools are managed by the churches. 44 of them belong to the Roman Catholic church, 21 of them belong to the Anglican Church. The boarding school started in 1876 and ended in 1996, which lasted 120 years. The Indigenous who stayed in Boarding school, lost their own language, culture, religion and connection with their family and nation, at the end, they not be accepted by modern Canada society either their own nation tribe. Under the trauma and pressure, most of them have a mental disorder, leading to alcoholism and suicide.

Through more than 100 years, Canada finally recognizes the mistakes they made. Gradually from the government to the RCMP, from churches to educational institutions, there have been apologies and compensations to the indigenous people. The dark history teaches us not to force other people to change. God created different human beings has his will. Humans do not use violence to compel others to change, and compelling is a crime. I hope we can learn from it and stop repeating the same mistakes.

2 Chronicles 28:10

Now you intend to make the men and woman of Judah and Jerusalem your slaves. But aren’t you also guilty of sins against the Lord your God?

Peace Prayer of Saint Francis

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace:

where there is hatred, let me sow love;

where there is injury, pardon;

where there is doubt, faith;

where there is despair, hope;

where there is darkness, light;

where there is sadness, joy.

O divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek

to be consoled as to console,

to be understood as to understand,

to be loved as to love.

For it is in giving that we receive,

it is in pardoning that we are pardoned,

and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life.

Amen.

#152 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 06 25

Article by Yvonne Zheng

終於打了第二針新冠疫苗了。期待三星期後可以帶老公阿Sam一起去超市買餸。去買餸好像是一件很簡單的生活瑣事。不過在新冠居家令下,是一件阿Sam十幾個月都沒有機會做的事。

對要用輪椅出入的阿Sam來説,外出走走遠比在家看電視好。超市地勢平坦,沒有日曬雨淋,花錢買嘅都係可以食在肚裏。行超市是一件寓生活於娱樂的事。 而我自己就期待可以和一個住在我家附近的好朋友見見面,敘一敘。這個朋友平時散步都會經過我家門口。女兒和女婿帶孫女去公園也常常和她碰面。連孫女離遠見到她都會揮揮手叫auntie。由居家令開始至今卻只能和她在在網上見面傾談。十分希望可以像以前一樣相約飲茶食飯。

期待是一件開心的事。令人想起都高興的事。有些人甚至高興到睡不着,渴望明天快快來臨。今天我一早起來上網讀一讀和「同行者」計劃的伙伴一起同讀的靈修日程。期待在約定的時間與神同行。那高興的心情像一隻吱吱咋咋的鳥兒。希望你也和我一樣找到一個好伙伴與神同行。

#151 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 06 22

Article by Mandy Li

疫境期,少了活動,多了思想,就…

一片荒涼乾固的土地,被忽畧多時,偶爾雨水降臨,令土地濕潤了,嫩綠的紛紛抬起頭來,但雨水过後不消幾日,地又乾固起來,嫩綠的还是不能堅穩的站立,继而消失.

偶爾風帶飄來的种子只能靠晨初霧露滋潤点滴,令嫩綠的掙扎爬起來,但那点滋润又能維持多久呢.

不要以為乾固的土地就沒种子飄来,如何令种子能在这土地上發芽成苗,拙壯成長,那些霧露,和不時的雨水,並不足以維持嫩綠的平均需要啊！

哥林多前書2:9說:神会為愛祂的人所預備的,眼睛未曾看見,耳朵未曾聽見,人心也未曾想到的.

这片泥地,是的,以為被忽略,但神是沒有放棄这些乾固的土地,神是愛,这時候,有農莊在附近建立起來,在里面是有許多慈愛良善的使者在作工.像都是為这各處被忽略的乾地而有預備而来,帶來盼望.令多地都得到更多生命活起來,讓更多的新生命承著这愛而成長.

使者对附近的荒地,盡己之能去关顧,他們都有時有候去施灌溉. 把种子撒發在土地內,不時留心檢察,添養份,務求土地都能把种子開發成長. 由於愛,灌溉有時,就成了有滋潤的土地.農莊还不時邀請專家,帶来專業知識,使嫩綠得到更多精良養份,又令週边有害物質讓接觸者認識能分辨出来,除去,不擾亂嫩綠的健康成長.

因有慈愛和關顧作工,荒地都可以成為滿有种子成長的良地.

當嫩綠成熟了,又可帶出大量种子撒佈到各地去,如此在各地都得到种子飄臨,活躍飛舞,讓多處各地都多了好多新生命,似是欢樂喜悅,在抬頭盼望.

神所預備的,看不到,聽不到,想不到,但神愛早存在了,感謝神的眷顧.

#150 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 06 15

Article by Carol Shih

與神與人同行

由上月籌備、宣傳至「同行者計劃」開始，至今有一個多月，它除了與人同行外，更重要是藉着閱讀材料、彼此的分享和提醒，一起發現上帝與我們同行。「兩個人總比一個人好，他們勞碌同得美好的報償。若是跌倒，這人可以扶起他的同伴；倘若孤身跌倒，沒有別人扶起他來，這人就有禍了。」(傳道書4:9-10)

經歷15年多在主裏的同行，感受到自己的同行者不單是同伴，兩人一起閱讀和分享，可以互相推動去發掘神話語裏的亮光，發現祂在向自己講說話：她的說話提醒我所察覺不到的，我的感受也讓她對經文有另一個睇法，這樣大家一起發掘，遠比一個人看到的更多。另外，在人生裏有潛伏已久的傷痕，也可能有突如其來的衝擊，兩人同行，一起經歷高低起跌，互相扶持，大家成為彼此信仰路上的手杖給予依傍，不致讓自己感到孤單無助。

當兩個人一起分享經歷，也是分享彼此的生命。透過讀物裏神的說話，讓我們回首過去，看到原生家庭的價值觀、父母的關係、童年的教育、成長中的遭遇怎樣塑造了今天的自己，也影響了今天的自己。在同行者的陪同下，我們可以一步步按着神給我們的亮光，讓過去有一天成為對自己的祝福，對身邊人的祝福。我們可以按自己的境況展望未來，也可以因着主的話給我們的盼望，對將來的自己期盼更美好的事，並相信神對我們的計劃比我們所想、所求的更好。

這些分享幫助我們慢慢地與過去的自己、現在的自己和將來的自己對話。當中不單是發自內心的反省，不單是同行者給自己的愛心回應，更是神藉人、事和讀物向我們說話；可以是幫助自己發掘恩賜，推動自己去面對難題，解答自己對信仰的問題，也可能是指出自己的盲點和要注意的地方，甚至是回應祂給自己的召命。因此，這同行者的關係是與神與人的同行。

這些年裏，我深受同行的益處，尤其在疫情下，我和同行者更覺得要互相支援。希望你們能同樣得益，一起聆聴上帝的說話，知道上帝在你們信仰路上的足跡。主祝佑你們。

Walk with God and Companion

It has been more than a month since the preparation and promotion of the Companionship project. In addition to walking with people, it is more important to discover that God is walking with us through reading, sharing and reminding each other.

‘Two are better than one, because they have a good reward for their toil. For if they fall, one will lift up the other; but woe to one who is alone and falls and does not have another to help.’ (Ecclesiastes 4:9-10) In my more than 15 years of companionship, my companion and I are not only companions of each other. The reading and sharing encourage us to discover the light in God’s Word together and how He speaks to us. Her words reminded me of what I could not perceive, and my feelings also gave her another way of looking at the scriptures. It helps us explore more than one person can notice. Besides, we may carry our experience with pains or receive sudden shocks. Two people walking together and experiencing ups and downs can find the mutual support of each other like a rod to lean against in the faith journey. They will not feel alone and helpless.

When two people share, they also share each other's lives. Through the words of God in the reading, we may notice the past and how the values of the original family, the relationship between parents, upbringing, and childhood experiences shaped us and also affected us. The companionship allows us to identify and follow God’s light at our pace. It can let the past become a blessing to ourselves and those around us. For sure, we can look forward to the future according to our circumstances. We can also look forward to better things for ourselves in the future because of the hope given to us through God’s words. We can believe that God's plan for us is better than what we can imagine and ask.

The sharing helps us to connect our past, the present and the future slowly. It is not only a reflection from our heart and the response of the companion, but also God speaks to us through others and reading. It may help us discover spiritual gifts, push us to face challenges and answer to our beliefs. It may also point out our blind spots and raise out cautions. It may even ask us to respond to his call. Therefore, the companionship is relationship between the two persons and God.

Over the years, I have been profoundly benefiting from companionship. Especially during the pandemic, we support each other more. I hope that you can also find it beneficial. Your pairs can listen to God's words together and know God's footprints in your lives. God bless.

#149 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 06 15

Article by Billy Ng

感謝生命的美意

上月5/12日剛巧是汶川大地震13週年，報章上記者追訪，其中一位倖存者，舞蹈老師廖智的近況，去年我已在疾中情#62，於7/21日中分享過她的故事，她雖然劫後重生，但卻失去深愛的女兒、婚姻破裂、更失去了雙腿，她說：「苦難不會改變人的生命，但是生命可以改變生命。」她憑著堅毅的信念，裝上義肢後繼續她的舞動人生，感動更多人面對困境。在報導中她現已再婚，育養兩個可愛的兒女，現任丈夫Charles更是當年為廖智製作義肢的一位技師， 相信這也是上帝的美意之一。

在過去一年多，面對疫情的反覆，我們在所難免會感到孤單、失落、無奈，但是在當中，仔細的回望，也會找到不少的「感謝生命的美意」的時刻！正如路加福音24：13-35節中記載，兩位門徒看見了耶穌的受難之後，帶著迷惘、失望及恐懼，離開其他門徒，在以馬忤斯的路上，遇見了復活的耶穌，為他們講解聖經，明白救恩，讓他們從真道上重新得力。

我們知道生活不會因為信主，而不會面對困難，但是若我們相信耶穌必與我們同行，便可以藉著祂的話語得力，勇敢地面對困境。今年暑假神學生Carol推出同行者計劃，相信用意亦是希望透過兩個人，與耶穌結伴同行，互相勉勵及彼此支持下，一同在屬靈的路程中經歷神。

附上星島日報5/12日關於廖智的報導：https://bit.ly/3CVzaAW

#148 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 06 11

Article by Joel Chiu

安省疫情最近減弱了，今天（六月十一日）可以進入經濟重啟第一階段。整個疫症大流行期間﹐我們好像行船遇到強風，許多事情大家要受限制，行動不能依照自己預定的安排。這是甚麼意思呢？

疫情給我們再上一堂課，我們在世上所遇，絕對不是一直風平浪靜，而是有忽然來的大風，叫我們像使徒保羅的海上行程，「船被風抓住，無法頂風航行，只好任它飄流。」靠著一個小島背風的一面岸航行。(使徒行傳二十七：１５，１６)。

為甚麼必需到背風的一面岸？因為，航行雖然慢一點，多繞路一些，但是比較安全我們不止有照顧自己安全的義務，同時也要眷顧別人安全的義務，這是防疫管理的基礎。

瘟疫使我們同舟共濟，不是一盤散沙，各行其事。任何人都不應該到危險的地方，那是把自己的享受，建立在他人危險的承受上，實在很不應該。

疫情的籠罩下，不應該有任何一個人，有特權降低防疫的門檻，那是為病毒開道路。如果有人這樣做，他是比瘟疫的毒害，更有毒害，顯示他心底的黑暗和醜陋。

使徒保羅在強風時，沒有出來說，他可以叫風止息，需要靠超自然維護的真理，本身就是不自然。他沒有說﹕就讓我開船，也沒有說船要開到那裏較安全，他默默禱告，默默承受，默默仰望主，因為再強的風，都在主手中。

強風的最後，不是終於沒有風了，而是大家要認識我們需要主，我們需要福音。如同使徒保羅末了說的:「諸位可以放心，我信上帝怎樣對我說，事情也要怎樣成就。」(使徒行傳二十七：２５)。

在疫情的強勢下，人要在甚麼時候才放心？除非肯聽上主的話，肯等候他成就他所作的事工，永遠不會放心。

#147 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 06 08

Article by Margaret Loo

持續了兩個月的安省的居家令終於在六月二日結束！經濟重啟計劃則與以往不同的方式分三個階段進行，而主要指標是每一階段的疫苗注射率。

第 1 階段：60% 的成年人接種了一劑疫苗。

第 2 階段：70% 的成年人接種一劑疫苗，20% 的成年人接種兩劑疫苗。

第 3階段步：70% 至 80% 的成年人接種一劑疫苗，25% 的成年人接種兩劑疫苗。

其實，不少專家，都曾明確指出，注射疫苗是真正能打擊新冠病毒最重要的措施。

去年，加拿大統計局做了一個有關注射新冠疫苗調查，結果顯示， 被訪者中有76% 表示願意接受疫苗注射，亦同時顯示，約有四分一的被訪者不願意或不肯定接受疫苗注射，而他們的理由是對疫苗的安全性沒有信心， 或是擔心疫苗的副作用。 當時，加拿大首席公共衛生醫療官對這調查結果回應時指出，在推出疫苗注射計劃時，有需要針對不願意或不肯定接受疫苗注射人士的特殊需要，考慮採取不同的措施。

在過去幾個月, 相信大家可能留意到, 安省在安排疫苗接種的過程中， 有多方考慮到接種者的困難和特殊需要，透過創意和彈性的安排， 和與民間團體的合作，提供不同接種按排。以下是一些例子 ： 疫苗接種中心有不同的開放時間，包括在假日開放，以方便要上班的人士。有流動疫苗接種中心， 進入疫情熱點地區服務。有工作人員，進入個別疫情嚴重地點服務， 如學校，工廠，老人院等。亦有工作人員，為因健康或其他原因不能離家的人士提供上門注射服務。而政府則透過各種傳媒， 不斷定期提供有關新冠疫情和疫苗的正確資訊。

安省的疫苗注射計劃，去年十二月推出，開始時因疫苗供應不足，步伐緩慢，疫苗注射率偏低。當疫苗供應問題解決，疫苗注射率急起直追，根據加拿大政府網業資料，安省五月底的疫苗注射率是 (起碼接種了一劑疫苗) 是 56.32%.隨著接種率的持續上升，自四月中三波疫情高峰至今，全國日增病例已經下降了70%。

不錯，有了疫苗，還要有針對不願意或不肯定接受疫苗注射人士的特殊需要，考慮採取不同的接種措施。

這亦是一個很好的提醒：信徒有了主耶穌寶貴的福音， 還要針對不願意或不肯接受福音人士的特殊需要，考慮採取不同的傳講福音的方法 ， 邀請他們信主。

#146 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 06 04

Article by Chivas Chu

整整超過一年多的疫情，隨著安省市民開始接種疫苗，我和太太都為己為人去打了第一針。期望可以早些打完第二針之後便可以有更好的免疫果效。我再沒有跟起初一般的每天坐在電視機前面去留意有關疫情的最新消息。不是我不再關心，而是漸漸學會了怎樣去調教自己的心情，不譲這疫情再帶給自己太多在情緒和心態上的負面影響。反正身邊有許多朋友都會WhatsApp 我有關的情況。眼見到身邊所認識的長者當中也被一個接一個的居家令限制而漸漸變得呆滯和不愉快。雖然多次嘗試開解他們，但是最終還是沒有太大的改變。

我多次在想和問自己，到底自己有這世紀大疫情下有幾信靠上帝。我跟別人一樣，也會有軟弱的時候。一方面嘗試去鼓勵這些長者，另一方面又是自己內心的爭扎。感謝主，我們的軟弱祂是淸楚知道的。每次當我們想到好渴望可以盡早返香港探望兒子但又因現時的隔離要求限制而不可行的時候，我便想起這一首詩歌「信心的等待」「Wait with Faith」，歌詞話 ”明天怎麼你仍是不知道，越想得到的總會得不到”，這並非指我們永遠也得不到，只是不會在我們預期之內得到，一切都是在神的旨意之中，深信祂是會為我們預備一個又適合的時候去做這件事情。因我知道”盼望”因祂而來，感謝祂為我們編寫的一切。

或者有些”疫中情”的讀者還會依稀記得我在上年疫情初期曾提及到我太太堅持每個星期返到教堂去照顧那些在聖堂內的蘭花，而我倆亦可以直此機會向上主禱告祈求。一年多已過，時間可證明，只要做了我們應做的，其餘的就交予上主。今天看到這些花比起在疫情前還要強壯和荗盛，可見上主的美意在當中。祝願頌主堂的主內姊妹弟兄們，同樣得著主的看顧保守，能夠早些回覆昔日在教堂的敬拜和事奉。

#145 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 06 01

Article by Justin Kim

一針一針齊抗疫

金正顯 （盧頌欣譯）

最近，我的診所開始爲人打新冠防疫針。這防疫針的程序與記錄與其他一般的防疫針不同。我的團隊要學用一個完全新的數據軟件。當我們開一瓶防疫針藥後，藥物只會在六小時内有效，所以我們一定要預約好要來打針的人士，才不會浪費寶貴的防疫針藥。整個程序需要很多功夫，令我的團隊很忙碌，特別是在第一天。當我終於坐下來小休，一個熟悉的的感受臨到我。上一次我有這樣的感覺是幾個月前我自己接受防疫針的時候。

當我預備接受新冠防疫針時，我沒有預料到會有什麽反應。每年秋季，我都會打防流感針。我有責任去打所有與我有關的防疫針來保護我的病人。我照常地捲起衣袖，接受第一劑新冠防疫針。不料，我的眼睛竟然被淚水充滿了。不，那針並不很痛。那些是歡欣的淚，因爲我們向疫症大流行的終點走近了一步；那些是有愧的淚，因爲我很多職員、病人、同事、家人、和朋友當時都未能接受防疫針，而我卻因爲要在醫院工作而可以打針了；那些是驚異的淚，因爲科學又再次幫了忙；那些是感激的淚，因爲很多人的辛勞，我能夠打針；那些是舒一口氣的淚，因爲疫症大流行的完結可能近了一點。

當我在診所裏為人打新冠防疫針時，病人的反應把我的回憶帶回來。他們微笑，還感謝我。他們開心地在診所裏按要求逗留十五分鐘，離開時脚步更輕鬆了。雖然我接受過很多訓練去保持專業，但我也免不了成為這喜樂場合的一部分。我很高興我能為人打新冠防疫針，也能繼續在診所照顧病人。我很高興能夠與病人分享這舒一口氣的感受，也喜見更多人受保護，盡量減低感染新冠病毒的機會。我對能夠一起擊敗這疫症更加有希望。感謝神，我能夠一針又一針地分享他的愛。

“要常常喜樂， 不住地禱告，

凡事謝恩，因為這是神在基督耶穌裡向你們所定的旨意。”

帖撒羅尼迦前書 5:16-18

阿們。

One jab at a time

Author: Justin Kim

Recently, my clinic began administering COVID-19 vaccines. The procedure and documentation were different from those of the usual vaccines we give in the office. My team and I had to learn a whole new database program. Once a vaccine vial was opened, it was only good for 6 hours, so we had to organize all the appointments in advance to prevent wasting the precious vaccines. The whole process was a lot more work and it kept us very busy, especially on the first day. When I finally sat down to take a break, a familiar emotion came upon me – one that I have not felt since I got my own COVID-19 vaccine a few months ago.

When I was getting ready to receive my COVID-19 vaccine, I did not expect to feel much reaction. I was used to getting my annual influenza vaccines in the same hospital every fall. It was my duty to protect my patients by getting all the relevant vaccines. So, as I would usually do, I rolled up my sleeve and got my first COVID-19 vaccine. Unexpectedly, my eyes started to well up with tears. No, the needle did not hurt that much. Those were tears of joy that we were one step closer to the end of the pandemic. Those were tears of guilt that so many of my staff, patients, colleagues, family, and friends were still not on the vaccine list, and I got one due to my hospital work. Those were tears of wonder that science came through once again. Those were tears of appreciation for all those who made this vaccine possible. Those were tears of relief that the end of the pandemic may be one step closer.

As I was administering the COVID-19 vaccines in my office, my patients’ reactions must have jogged my memory. They smiled. They thanked me. They happily waited the required fifteen minutes in the office after their jab. They left the office with an extra bounce in their steps. Despite all the training for me to stay professional, I could not help but become a part of that joyful occasion. I was thankful that I could administer the COVID-19 vaccines and continue to care for my patients, both in my regular office. I was happy that I was able to share the sense of relief with my patients. I was glad that a few more people became protected from COVID-19. I became more hopeful that we could beat this pandemic together. I thank God that I was able to share His love, one jab at a time.

“Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thessalonians 5:16-18)

Amen.

#144 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 05 28

Article by Grace Liu

疫中情- 生命牆．下

今天又再次在露台默想。突然傳來一陣陣機械摩打聲。原來幾位園藝管理工人正在修剪這一道生命牆。(一種我不知名的高矗植物附圖) 。 他們把包裹樹幹的麻布拆去，把頂尖一段约1 呎剪除；又把不整齊的橫枝修正。反正沒有特別事情，走出露台看究竟。工人們在清理剪下的斷枝外更細心地把藏在樹叢底部的垃圾抓出來。有飲品盒、膠水樽、纸巾、口罩和零食。最終，所有垃圾清理後工人放入木碎並倒入樹腳下，細心鋪好完成。

這一連串工序是要保護樹牆為它在新一季作準備。剪去頂部會長出更多新芽，加入枝狀肥料使植物生長得更茂盛。去除橫枝後樹牆更筆直，今年夏天枝葉更趨濃密。地下碎木既可以保護根部，小動物如花粟鼠和松鼠又可藏身其中，作為入冬前的家。垃圾自然是不受歡迎，時侯到了便要清理。

到這刻我似乎有點領悟…… 一連串解釋似曾相識，我們的天父不也在做同樣的事嗎？ 聖靈帶領我們行直路，我們因自己錯而犯罪。每週認罪文可幫助我們醒察，把身上「垃圾」清除。天父也會出於祂的慈愛而作出管教、修剪；在過程中我們會痛。感恩的是只要我們願意悔改，天父會與我們同行，加添力量。最終是讓我們長得更像祂，活出更豐盛生命來榮耀祂。隨着園藝工作人員的離開，一個回頭的揮手和微笑，好像是對我説：孩子「你真的明白嗎？」我也揮手點頭，謝謝天父。

#143 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 05 25

Article by Sunny Wong

关于菲利普亲王 王晨

我们小时候都喜欢听王子和公主的故事，这里就来说说我们身边的一个王子的故事 —刚去世的英国菲利普亲王。

菲利普亲王是伊丽莎白二世女皇的丈夫。他和女皇其实是亲戚，他们都是维多利亚女皇的曾孙辈。菲利普是维多利亚女皇女儿的女儿的女儿的儿子。伊丽莎白是维多利亚女皇儿子的儿子的儿子的女儿。菲利普本身是希腊及丹麦的王子。他的母亲嫁给了菲利普的父亲希腊的安德烈王子在希腊生活并生下了菲利普。

好景不长，在菲利普只有18个月大时，他的希腊国王祖父被刺杀身亡，他的大伯继位，在一战期间被逼退位，皇族大部分成员被流放到瑞士。几年后全家重返希腊。他的父亲安德烈王子参与了希腊和土耳其的战争，战争对希腊不利，安德烈王子被责犯错，全家第二次被流放到了法国， 靠亲戚的资助生活。菲利普的母亲爱丽丝精神失常被关入治疗院。父亲离开了母亲和一个演员同居。他在不同的亲友家及寄宿学校度过童年。在法国，德国及英国成长并接受教育，后在英国皇家海军服役并与女皇相恋结婚。婚后一直在女皇身边支持相伴。他们的婚姻成为皇室历史上最长久的婚姻。在皇室生活并不容易，尤其是漫长的73年婚姻。他的子女不被英国皇室及国会允许继承他的姓，需延用英国皇室的姓。他幼年的经历把他磨练成一个坚强的人。他亲民，幽默，直言不惟。他创立了爱丁堡公爵奖，用以帮助和鼓励14-24岁的年轻人接受挑战突破自我境界，又支持750个世界组织， 为英国及世界做出贡献。

愿上帝看顾菲利普亲王的灵并安慰英女皇及她的家人！

About Prince Philip, Duck of Edinburgh

Sunny Wong

When we were young, we all liked to hear the stories of princes and princesses. Here is the story of a prince near us—the British Prince Philip who died recently.

Prince Philip is the husband of Queen Elizabeth II. He and the Queen are actually relatives; they are both great-grandchildren of Queen Victoria. Philip is the son of the daughter of the daughter of Queen Victoria. Elizabeth is the daughter of the son of the son of Queen Victoria. Philip himself was the prince of Greece and Denmark. His mother married Philip's father, Prince Andrew of Greece and Denmark, who lived in Greece and gave birth to Philip.

The good times didn't last long. When Philip was only 18 months old, his Greek king grandfather was assassinated and his uncle succeeded. He was forced to abdicate during World War I. Most members of the royal family were exiled to Switzerland. The family returned to Greece a few years later. His father, Prince Andrew, participated in the war between Greece and Turkey. The war was not good for Greece. Prince Andrew was accused of making mistakes, and his family was exiled the second time, they moved to France, living on financial support from relatives. Philip's mother, Alice, had a severe nervous breakdown and was sent to a treatment center. The father left his mother to live with an actress. He spent his childhood in different relatives and friends’ homes and boarding schools. He grew up and received education in France, Germany and the United Kingdom, and later served in the Royal Navy and married the Queen. After marriage, he has always been with the Queen to support her. Their marriage became the longest marriage in royal history. Life in the royal family is not easy, especially the long 73 year marriage. His children are not allowed to inherit his surname by the British Royal Family and Parliament, and the British Royal Family's surname shall be used. His childhood experience honed him into a strong man. He is down-to-earth, humorous, and outspoken. He founded the Duke of Edinburgh Award to help and encourage young people aged 14-24 to accept challenges and breakthrough their boundaries. He also supported 750 world organizations to make contributions to the UK and the world.

May God carry the spirit of Prince Philip and comfort the Queen and her family!

#142 疫中情 // Love in Pandemic

2021 05 21

Article by Elaine Wong

〈頌主一家〉

世界何其大，教會何其多，

我眾來加住，共聚頌主堂。

前互不相識，今主內一家，

毋問為甚麼，主旨意如斯。

既是一家人，樂參家中事，

基督為元首，你我屬肢體。

萬事共效力，不分你我他，

處處相包容，時時相親愛。

彼此需尊重，真誠莫虛假，

猜疑嫉妒念，去盡勿沾心。

不以己為大，看人比我強，

虛懷若山谷，效主謙卑態。

誰人無過錯，彼此要饒恕，

家中各人事，顧念互代求。

主言常緊記，主訓常遵守，

叫人從我貌，見到主耶穌。

疫情下阻隔，主愛把心繫，

疫戰何日止，定睛主基督。

把握每一天，全力去事奉，

恩賜要運用，福音務廣傳。

愛主我上帝，盡心性和意，

愛人若愛己，誡命謹遵行。

儆醒常預備，燈油不可缺，

我王復臨日，頌唱和撒拿。