Call to look at episcopal role

THE General Conference (GC) will have to look at the structure and the role of oversight and shepherding of the flock, and examine the directions The Methodist Church in Singapore (MCS) is taking.

Stating this in his Episcopal Address on Sept 12, Bishop Dr Robert Solomon said the administrative role of the bishop is an area that is often a grey area.

He said: “We have made several turnings in the past that have affected this role of the bishop. It is perhaps in this area that I had experienced a fair degree of frustration for various reasons, and the GC will have to look at our structure and the role of oversight and shepherding of the flock, and examine the directions we have consciously or unconsciously taken and are taking.”

The episcopal role has biblical roots and has been fleshed out in history as the church encountered many challenges in its history, from severe persecution to serious divisions, to heretical and socio-cultural and moral corruptions. Being in episcopal office has given him a first-hand experience of the challenges, opportunities and travails of the role.

The bishop’s role covers three main areas: the teaching office, the ceremonial/liturgical role, and the administrative role.

Bishop Dr Solomon said: “I have had the privilege to be in a liturgical and ceremonial role in having dedicated church buildings, and ordained clergy in Singapore and in our Missions in the region. I have also had the joy of baptising children and adults in some of our churches.

“This role of the bishop gives a tangible connectional function to the office of bishop and I have had the privilege of connecting with our local churches and ministry units across our wide connection, and I have learned much and been blessed much from the experience.”

But it is in the teaching role of the episcopal office that he has found greatest satisfaction. “I have had the joy of preaching and teaching in our churches, and of exercising the teaching office through writing and speaking at our various connectional gatherings. I have also attempted to live up to the vows I had taken, which include defending the faith and order of our church.

“This quadrennium had its difficult moments and I want to thank those who had prayed for me and given encouragement to their bishop.

“My greatest joy is in my Lord Jesus Christ who called me and as the apostle Paul said, ‘stood at my side and gave me strength’ (2 Tim. 4:17). I have found the Lord to be always true and faithful to His word, promises and purposes and I count it the greatest privilege to be His unworthy servant.”