Fankun and Candy are originally from Hong Kong. They joined Lighthouse as full time workers in 1995. They look after our Cantonese and Mandarin speaking ministries and life groups, as well as our Cantonese Service on Sundays.
(F) = Fankun (C) = Candy
Why did you become a pastor? (F) When I was still a university student, I heard a sermon from a pastor challenging young men to ‘hold’ from their career and serve God full time for 2 years. The analogy was taken from the need for Taiwanese young men being required to fulfill two years of military service. If you can give up two years for the country, why not give up two years for God? I was moved by the sermon and the thought of serving God for a period of time was planted in my head. In 1995, Pastor James invited me to join Lighthouse as a full time worker. God reminded me of the commitment I made after listening to that sermon and I agreed to do so for 2 years. Towards the end of the 2 years, I asked God for directions as to whether I should stop or continue. And since God gave no indication for me to stop, I decided to continue serving full time, as a sign of submission to Him.
What is it like to work together in the ministry? (C) Ten years ago, a pastor from Singapore gave us a vision – tandem cycling. Fankun was sitting in front – leading the way and I behind, supporting him. Over the years, God has shown me how we can work together for his glory. Fankun is a good leader; I help him in practical ways as well as a friend to bounce ideas off. For the past few years, I have also been financially supporting the family so Fankun can help serve full time. God has put us in different but complimenting positions.
Heart for lighthouse? (F) Too see real followers of Jesus. Many Christians have faith without deeds. Lighthouse followers must fully follow God in their everyday life. (C) To have one God, one family, the unity & bond within the different cultures; a place they can call home that provides a pathway for them to grow.
Favourite parable? (F&C) Mustard seed – It’s amazing to see what faith can do.
Favourite verse? (F) Matthew 11:28-30 “Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened, and I will give you rest. 29 Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am gentle and humble in heart, and you will find rest for your souls. 30 For my yoke is easy and my burden is light.” This is the message from God. It’s the reason why we need God and why we need to respond to Him. (C) 1Timothy 6:6 ‘But godliness with contentment is great gain” It’s an important life principle that I remind myself every day.
Favourite character in the Bible? (F&C) Barnabas (F) He was a good helper. (C) He was willing to lower himself and let others shine. His focus was to build men, not his own glory.
Hobbies / Favourite pastime? (F) Watching TV (C) Catching up on sleep. Also travelling, eating and chatting with friends.
If you could be an animal for a week, what would it be? (F) A snake – I want to hybernate after a nice big meal. (C) A penguin in Kelly Tarltons. They live a good life there. They have no worries and just play
Next place to visit? (F) China – to experience the Chinese culture, and perhaps do some bible training (C) Taiwan. Its the place I met Fankun and came to know God. I have many happy memories there.
Favourite food? (F) Something hot and savoury (ie. Anything that’s NOT sweet). Even if it’s just a bowl of hot rice. (C) Dessert – anything sweet except for chocolate, or chocolate flavoured desserts
Are you a Coffee or Tea person? (F) Coffee – flat white (C) Latte in a glass and a piece of cake.
Secret talents that no one knows? (F) A hoola hoop expert, I can go on for just about forever. (C) Floral arrangement
What gets you excited? (F) When I meet a good Wei Qi (a type of Chinese chess) player (C) When I complete writing a song
Share with us an example of someone that’s changed by Christ under your care? (F) A man once sought my advice on looking for a spouse. He was surprised when I urged him to find a good Christian lady. In his mind, this was not a quality he was seeking. However, he took my advice, and now he has a wonderful marriage in the Lord. Both of them are serving together in a church. (C) A lady I met used to call me her ‘handkerchief’. It was because she really liked to cry. When she needed a shoulder to cry on, I was always by her side. She went through some very tough times but I can see God’s hand on her. Through prayer, encouragement and support, she learnt to stand strong in Christ. Her story is a living testimony to God’s faithfulness stated in Proverbs 10:22 – “It is the blessing of the LORD that makes us rich, And He adds no sorrow to it.”
Hope and vision for Lighthouse? (F) That Lighthouse will continue to grow as a church for all people. That people from all backgrounds and cultures will find a home with us. (C) That it will be a home for all nations and languages and a family for all those who come here.