30 Mar Engaging with people of different faiths
On 11 March 2017, Asia Gateway and Wesley Methodist Church, KL jointly conducted a Weekend Seminar on “Engaging with People of Different Faiths” by Dr Tan Kang San & Ms Lee Loun Ling with special sharing by Chitra Jayakaran.
This seminar introduced participants to the major religions in Asia such as Buddhism, Confucianism, and Hinduism as well as an analysis of Interfaith Issues in Asian contexts. It began with the various Approaches to the Study of Religions, followed by understanding the different religions through case study, video and group discussion from a Christian perspective.
Throughout the seminar, practical implications on gospel and culture; evangelism and inter-religious conversations; and the mission of the local church in a contemporary plural society were explored. Chitra, a Co-Mission Partner of AsiaCMS who works with Interserve India, shared from her rich experience as a Christian witness among her devout Hindu family and friends.
Despite a busy Saturday for many, about 120 participants came, mostly from Wesley Methodist Church KL, with some from other churches. Their enthusiasm on the subject and active interaction with one another during the seminar were very encouraging.
After the event Mrs. Irene Wong, the Chairperson of Missions Committee of Wesley Methodist KL, commented:
Thank you very much for spending time with us on 11th March to share your vast knowledge on Buddhism and Hinduism and to also arrange for Chitra to join us, adding to the dimension and interest of the seminar. We appreciate all that you have done for us and I must say that it got many participants engaged especially in the case study on Roberto de Nobili.
We look forward to further collaboration with Asia Gateway should opportunities arise.
The ultimate objective of this seminar was to equip every disciple of Jesus to better engage with our non-Christian neighbours in Malaysia. We hope that has been achieved by God’s grace.
— Lee Loun Ling, Dean of Asia Gateway and Training Director of AsiaCMS.