Barnabas (front row, third from left) presenting plaques to pastors during the council’s appreciation and thanksgiving lunch. — Photos: LIM BENG TATT/The Star
Three charitable organisations also receive RM3,000 at festive meet
THE Penang Tamil Council of Churches (PTCC) recognised the efforts of its pastors in a post-Christmas gathering in Penang.
A total of 18 pastors and 15 senior pastors from 13 churches were presented with certificates and plaques during the Appreciation and Thanksgiving Lunch in Tanjung Bungah.
PTCC chairman Rev Dawid Barnabas said the lunch was the first major event they had organised since the Covid-19 pandemic struck.
“It is a timely recognition of the work the pastors do and their contributions to society at large,” he said.
The chairman also presented the churches with hampers and gifts.
Some 100 guests including residents of local welfare homes were in attendance for the lunch at Mercure Penang Beach’s grand ballroom.
The gathering observed prayer and worship sessions before enjoying a sumptuous buffet.
Guests enjoying their first major event since the pandemic.
Three charitable organisations, namely Rumah Anak Kesayangan, Pertubuhan Kebajikan Agape Pulau Pinang and Relau Rumah Charis, were also given donations of RM1,000 each.
Barnabas, who is also Crystal Family Home director, said churches under the council recognised the threat posed by Covid and had taken precautions.
“We have told members of congregations to stay away if they are feeling unwell, and we encourage the wearing of face masks on premises.
“Everything is voluntary for now as there are no official measures or restrictions for us to implement or adhere to.
“But we hope people will play it safe,” he said.
The 13 churches under the council are The Faithful City Church, Petra Praise Assembly, Elohim Tamil Church, Bethany Grace AOG, FGA Centre, Gospel Ministry, Praise Tamil Baptist, Faithful Tasek Gelugor, Follow Jesus Assembly, Hillside Baptist Tamil Congregation, Global Harvest Tamil Congregation, Mizpah Tamil Baptist Church and Hosanna Tamil Assembly.
The council has yearly open houses in Bandar Baru Ayer Itam, where it is based, and does regular community outreach activities, such as donations of rice, schoolbags and clothing to the needy.
They are also involved with conferences, prayer rallies and other Christian events organised by the state.
