A Personal Testimony by Rev Stanley Chua (PIC of AMKMC)

On 11 November 2006, I facilitated my first group of Companions in Christ ("CIC") and I must say I've been very blessed and enriched by the entire experience especially in drawing close to God and to my fellow companions-in-Christ.

I confess that although I have been a pastor for ten years now, I've never really experienced the full range of practicing the various Spiritual Disciplines in my life. I read somewhere before that most Christians only have one or two spiritual disciplines that they practice regularly for most of their faith journey. Many are ignorant that there are other spiritual disciplines and many still who fail to practice spiritual disciplines as part of their spiritual growth. I agree! Going through this course has certainly helped me discover many other spiritual disciplines that the early spiritual fathers had practiced. Importantly, it gives me the opportunity to practise these spiritual disciplines as I go through the program. As a result of this experience, my own quiet time with the Lord has been deeply enriched as I now use many of these spiritual disciplines that I've learnt from this program in my own walk with God.

Another blessing that I have experienced from going through this program is that it has allowed me to experiene authentic community through spiritual conversations. In these spiritual conversations, we learn to share honestly and listen to one another about how the Holy Spirit moves in our hearts to uncover our deepest thoughts and struggles. As a result of this, I've witnessed and experienced how the people in my CIC group have been transformed from being superficial to being transparent with each other, accepting and loving one another without passing any judgments. This is what authentic community is really all about where we don't need to hide from one another and where we are not being afraid that people will not accept us if they discover who we really are. There were moments when such personal spiritual conversations bought us to acknowledge that God was truly present with us. I would highly recommend this programe to anyone who wishes to develop a deeper walk with God through Spiritual Formation as well as to experience authentic community.

Companions in Christ

Time flies, Rev Marjorie Thompson was in Singapore to conduct the very 1st training last March. Thank God for a few churches who have started using this set of materials. This one-volume introduction to Companions in Christ moves through an uninterrupted 28-week study of five topics: spiritual formation, scripture, prayer, vocation and spiritual companionship.

Each week of study begins with an inviting and often challenging reading by a recognized author in spiritual formation. In addition to the weekly reading, this book provides questions and daily scripture readings to guide your private reflection. The week closes with a two-hour group session where you share your thoughts, reflect together, and take part in diverse group learning experiences.

Companions in Christ offers small groups a powerfully transforming experience in opening yourself to God's presence and guidance. Explore classic spiritual practices, and develop new daily patterns that will open your life to a deepening relationship with God and with your group.