James and Kim are our senior pastors. They have been in full time ministry for over 30 years. Originally from Malaysia, James was the Senior Pastor of one of the largest evangelical churches in the country. They established Lighthouse in 1990 following their arrival in New Zealand. While James remains responsible for setting the vision and direction of the church, together with Kim, he provides spiritual cover for Lighthouse Hamilton and Hong Kong and ministers in various countries. Kim also looks after the life-group ministry.
(J) = James (K) = Kim
Why did you become a pastor? (J) A very clear and distinct call of God as a teenager to serve Him. Opportunity came when the pastor of our church went home to the Lord. Was invited to take over as the Pastor. Has been ever since for over 30 years. (K) It felt like I grew into the pastoral ministry and eased into the role rather than making a sudden decision.
What is it like to work together in the ministry? (K) God has blessed us with complimenting strengths and abilities. James is more of a big picture man, a visionary. I am more of an implementer. God certainly uses us as a team.
What is your heart for lighthouse? (J) To see a new group of leaders rise up within church and plant a movement within and outside of NZ to reach unreached people group. (K) That Lighthouse will be a church that continues to declare the praises of the Lord and continues to be strong.
Favourite parable? (J) The good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) – that passage teaches us compassion to reach out to different people, even when it’s a demanding task. (K) The parable of the Mustard seed (Matthew 13:31-32) – I see everything & everyone also as seeds that can grow into trees, strong trees that can bless others.
Favourite character in the Bible? (J) Paul. He’s focused reaching new people and territories; he’s relentlessly going out and continuously on fire for God. (K) Joshua – He never wavered.
Hobbies / Favourite pastime? (J) I am a thinker. I spend time pondering through issues, possibilities of how things can be done, improving my methods for doing specific tasks. I also enjoy sports – both playing and watching. I am getting better at my table tennis. (K) Soduku – I spend hours doing it. I like reading healthy cookbooks, playing tennis, and walking.
Next place to visit? (J) Israel- as part of my own spiritual journey and to be able to walk the path that the Lord walked. (K) Switzerland, Cinque Terre in Italy and Japan
Memorable holiday destinations? (J) England – I love English literature, the lake district and visiting universities. (K) Malaysia East coast – a different place to West Malaysia (where we used to live) in culture, food and scenery. I like Europe too, it’s full of history.
Favourite food? (J) Pork belly and preserved vegetable casserole. (K) Sushi and Korean / Chinese dumplings
Are you a Coffee or Tea person? (J) Coffee. Flat white (K) Neither, I prefer water.
Secret talents that no one knows? (J) Making a good Chinese style roast pork (K) Having words of wisdom, encouraging and helping people grow
What gets you excited? (J) When there’s a break through (K) Seeing children & young people passionate and knowing the reality of God. Seeing them excited for God makes me excited.
Share with us an example of someone that’s changed by Christ under your care? (J) Many years ago, a man dying of cancer came to know the Lord. His whole spirit changed. His wife and 3 kids all came to know God. God gave him 6 more months to live than original 3 months predicted by doctor. He was a great testimony of God’s live changing power. (K) A lady with a suicidal tendency came for help. Her marriage was on the rocks and she tried to kill herself a few times already. She would call me every day. I was young and very inexperienced in the ministry then. But she came right. Her situation did not changed for many years, but she grew strong in her character to deal with her issues. God came through for her. Even her husband came to the Lord. The marriage was saved. The couple now serves the Lord together.
Hope and vision for Lighthouse? (J) That every generation will have people rising up to take church further. Lighthouse will have a bigger and bigger influence for the Lord. Also for God’s hand to be over the church- that the presence of the Lord will be with us so we can be an influence wherever we are. (K) A church that keeps moving for God. Like migrating geese flying in a formation. When the lead goose is tired, they slip back and another one comes up seamlessly to assume the lead role so the formation keeps going. They don’t stop, or even slow down. I hope to see Lighthouse as a church that won’t slow down and that God will raise up new leaders to take the church further.