Attending the 7^th Asian Baptist Congress 2007

For the first time, Community Baptist Church sent a team to attend the Asian Baptist Congress, held in Chiangmai, from April 30^th to May 6^th, 2007. The team consisted of Pastor Richard, Pat Toh, Pastor Swee Tchung, Sue Ng and Anne Tan. Joined by another dozen Malaysians, we formed a small minority when compared to the 1700+ participants from all over Asia, Australia and America.
 
The Theme verse for the Congress was, “The blind receive sight, the lame walk, those who have leprosy are cured, the deaf hear, the dead arise and the good news is preached to the poor.” Matt.11:5. The Congress Logo is the various shades of blue representing sea waves which stand for Asia in the diversity of cultures and peoples, as well as the challenges and disasters that often confront it. The symbol of flower or light with the cross above the waves represents Jesus Christ who loves and cares at all times.
 
It was a tremendous time of learning from Baptist missionaries from all over the world as well as making new friends. There were special workshops for pastors, youth and women leaders, laymen, evangelists, worship leaders, mission leaders, theological educators, parents, etc. Fellowship time, especially during meal times, was precious. We connected with brothers and sisters from India, Nagaland, Nepal, Thailand, Singapore, Philippines, Australia, and many more countries.
 
We hope to meet again when Malaysia hosts the next ABF, or rather, the next Asian Pacific Baptist Federation (APBF) Congress in 2011. The change of name was accepted at this Congress because it better describes the participation of nations, which include those in the Pacific. We will like to see CBC members participate in 2011.