Short Summary of Presidential Address

In his presidential address, President Su thanked God for allowing him to learn and grow in this big Methodist family. He pointed out that as we learn, we need to take note of two Christian life issues. First is Christian witness in the real world. Second, the re-equipping of pastors and lay people.

In answering the question of how we can as people of worship manifest our faith in the real world, Su suggested three general rules set by John Wesley: by doing no harm, by doing good and by obeying all the ordinances of God.

In dealing with the second Christian life issue, Su pointed out that there should be common understanding among the pastors, and mutual respect between pastors and members.

Concerning the future of the Methodist Church, President Su gave clear targets for next year: Number of baptism 3,564; Number of confirmation 1,782 (50% of the baptized); Members to be found 3,280; Reducing the “lost sheep” from 55% to 30- 40%.

Church education need to be geared to contemporary needs. We need to renew and provide quality education for children. We hope that 30-40% of children will know and accept Jesus Christ at a young age.

In the areas of social concern, our church needs to care for external as well as internal needs. We also need to develop a holistic evangelism method.

At the present moment, our conference has 3,000 Hakka believers worshipping in 10 churches (about 80% of the church members are Hakka). This is a very good beginning. We should strive to go on.

About 60% of our churches are in the village areas; we should consider using “circuit” method (Disciplines 106.2) in pastoring. In case of urban churches, it is necessary to develop a systematic way of evangelism, teaching, equipping and pastoring in small groups.

Written by Ming