International Saline Solution Medical Conference

On the 27^th of February 2010, we were blessed with the chance to participate in the International Saline Solution Medical Conference organized by Agape, where many practicing Christian healthcare professionals shared their experiences with us. Among them were Alet Uittenbogaard, Dr. Bill Becknell, Dr. Darin Brink, Dr. Olga Polezhaeva and Dr. Larissa Pavlova. It was a great opportunity for us to learn about how we could impact our workplace by being the salt and light to share the love of Christ Jesus with patients and colleagues.

The conference started off with a brief introduction, a session of praise and worship and a video on the ministry of Agape. The entire course was based mainly on five questions:

1. Why is faith important in healthcare?

2. What are the opportunities and barriers to fulfilling God’s call?

3. What is my part?

4. What other tools will help me to cultivate and sow?

5. Where do I go from here?

As doctors, we should not only be concerned about the physical needs of the patient but the spiritual needs as well. In a report by World Health Organization (WHO), it was stated that we should be more concerned about the patient with the disease rather than what disease the patient has. We were also able to recognize the different barriers that may prevent us from being witnesses for Christ, overcoming them through the practice of social sensitivity, respect, and most importantly, by being good listeners.

Throughout the sessions, many different teaching methods were used, such as role playing and case studies. We were also given the opportunity to practice what we have learnt through small group activities. Furthermore, after each part, some time was allocated for us to voice out opinions, and even share life experiences! In between sessions, frequent breaks were given which were really useful for the tired to stretch their legs, drink coffee, munch biscuits and feel refreshed once again to continue the session.

As the session came to an end, Dr. Bill Becknell shared 7 Bible verses that we could use to help the unreached realize their need for Christ. Needless to say, everyone enjoyed themselves and thoroughly benefited from this conference.

International Saline Solution Medical Conference

Dear friends,

This Saturday, we are very fortunate to have the International Saline Solution Medical Conference held right here in Moscow! On Saturday, the 27th of February, from 10am to 7pm, we will have many international speakers with years of experience in the medical field - American Dr. Bill Becknell, Russian Dr. Sergey Arkhipenko, and Dutch Alet Uittenbogaard speak into our lives. Don't miss this chance to refine our medical skills and learn more about how to share God's love as a medical doctor!

Conference fees are only 200 rubles, and this is inclusive of lunch and conference materials! The Solution is founded by the Christian Medical Fellowship and the healthcare Christian Fellowship.

For more information, please contact Andrew at +7(926) 687 68 95.

*Notice: Conference fees has been changed to 150 rubles, excluding lunch. *

Chinese New Year Reunion Dinner

Spartive Hotspot

Once again, the lunar new year celebrations gripped the Spartive hostel. Held in the hostel study room, the celebrations kick-started at 6.30pm. First up, was an interesting and very interactive game involving only a bit of toilet roll, some brave people and a cheering crowd. Next up, we had the Emcee of the night, Mr. Yan lead the crowd in singing the traditional Chinese New Year Song “He Xin Nian”.

We also had an amazing sharing about the Chinese culture of giving angpow, but with a twist that would change the way we look at receiving and giving the red packets. And as with any good family, we had a wonderful true story told, about how our ancestors in ancient China practised customs and have their roots associated with the stories from the Bible.

And the highlight of the evening, the wonderful 9 course meal prepared by everyone of the hotspot CG members. We started with the Lou Sang, and followed with the homemade soup, Chinese BBQ Pork, Lemon Chicken, Fish, Squid, Vegetables, Spring Rolls and of course, Lychee Ice as dessert.

The night continued with a “yam seng” or cheers session and of course, a karaoke singing session. At the end of the day, the Spartive Hotspot not only celebrated Chinese New Year in a style fitting for an emperor, but we also truly experienced the feeling of having a family to celebrate with, here in Moscow.

Kahovs Hotspot

On the eve of Chinese New Year, three hostels namely Kahov, Pushkin and Yugo gathered to usher in the New Year. Fellowship began around 7.30pm. A simple ice breaking game organized by Alex Koh was first on the agenda. The winners got to have desserts which were limited in number. Everyone then gathered in a room to sing a classic Chinese New year song to brighten up the atmosphere. Andrew then proceeded with a short offering message. Since it was Chinese New year, offering was carried out a little differently. Our offerings were sealed and packed in traditional red packets called "ang paus".

Without further a due, everyone then proceeded to the hall to have dinner. Dinner was absolutely scrumptious. After saying grace, everyone joined forces in mixing and tossing the yee sang. The full ambience of Chinese New Year can still be felt despite being miles away from home. Fellowship ended approximately around 10.30pm. Everyone returned to their respective hostels cheerfully with satiated bellies.

Kuzmin Hotspot

Who says only families gather for reunion dinner on the eve of Chinese New Year? In Kuzmin Hotspot, 30 medical students gathered for a joyful yet fun Reunion Dinner that took place in a small cozy room decorated with creatively handmade ornaments. We started off with some games where participants stand a chance to taste the sensation of wasabi-filled sushi when the game wasn’t on their favour.

The atmosphere wouldn’t have been perfect without the singing of CNY songs, which was then accompanied by a few worship songs. Next up was the offering message where we were all encouraged in giving rather than the normal tradition of receiving ang pows. The message shared that night was simple but meaningful. Finally it was time to enjoy the 7 Course Dinner, which started out with Yee Sang. Indeed it was a memorable night of fellowship.

M2 Hotspot

This year, the Malaysian Fellowship M2 Hotspots had successfully organized the reunion dinner in order to celebrate the Chinese New Year in the respective zones of cell group. Among the activities held were the singing of Chinese New Year songs and games. The sharing of the word of God had also been preached by the respective leaders during the celebration. And of course, there were scrumptious food to fill our hungry stomachs on that day as well.
Although we cannot celebrate this wonderful festival with our families back home, yet, we've got each other here in the Malaysian Fellowship, to support one another and to treat one another as a part of the family here in Moscow. And there's nothing better than to have the traditional reunion dinner with our family, true? Happy Chinese New Year!

MF Reunion Dinner

Dear friends,

Happy Chinese New Year!

This Saturday evening, cell groups will be organizing an MF Reunion Dinner to celebrate Chinese New Year! Let this be a time of fellowship where people can talk about their holidays, a time where the leaders share about God's blessing and how it pertains to CNY, and a time of giving!

Please check with your cell group leaders for details of your Reunion Dinner! :)

Winter Conference 2010

During the span of the winter holidays, much toil and sweat have been put in order to make this Winter Conference a reality and a truly memorable one. The catch phrase "Change Begins With Me" coined for this Winter Conference 2010 (5th Feb-7th Feb) could not have been any better. Change truly begins with oneself especially in the field of medicine whereby the bulk of the medical career entails us to reach out to those who are less fortunate.

We realised that before we can actually do that, much is required from us first. Therefore the Winter Conference which was held in Renaissance Hotel for the first two days mainly consisted of talks and workshops not only aimed at honing our clinical skills but also in various aspects as well such as leadership, media and worship.

The first session was conducted by Pastor Kevin Loo himself, a truly down to earth man with the fastest growing church in Malaysia. Pastor Kevin heads CHC KL and has an average attendance of about 2000 members. The man himself imparted words of wisdom and encouragement with a powerful sermon noting how important change can be and that the word of God triggers change to empower us to not only become normal doctors but spiritual doctors that not only bring the medicine but also hope to the downcasted and the broken hearted. We as doctors merely provide the medicine but it is only God that provides the cure. As a whole, Pastor Kevin stressed that he wanted MF to not only be empowered as a strong family, but also to be deeply rooted in God and to be the light and salt of the world. The night ended with the sweets croons of praise and worship by the highly acclaimed CHC band all the way from KL.

The second day of the Winter Conference 2010 was a full blown 13 hour session that included a much anticipated message by Pastor Matts Ola, a highly revered and respected pastor that commands a large following of Russian Christians in Moscow. His church popularly goes by the Russian name of Slava Zhizny which literally means Word of Life. There was also a talk conducted by Dr Shan Ong himself who is one of the top pediatricians specializing in child developmentin Sydney, Australia. He was there to talk about highly acquired medical skills and advice to us aspiring doctors. Last but not least, Dalvinder Singh who is the founding director of the Moscow Malaysian Fellowship and also in his final year also imparted much wisdom to us as he delivered tips on leadership skills and people management.

The CHC band also took part in organizing a workshop regarding praise and worship. They spoke about the dos and don’ts of creating an atmosphere that invites the presence of God.

The highlight of the event was Ms Jaclyn Victor herself. The first ever Malaysian Idol and a currently well established singer and recording artist with 3 albums to boot. A true superstar with undeniably raw talent and an incredibly amazing voice, she was there to serenade us for the span of three days of the conference. She left no one in the room doubting her triumphant reign six years ago. Not only that, Ms Jaclyn herself is extremely down to earth and with her bubbly personality, she is indeed an idol to many of our hearts. Not a dry eye was left in the hall as she displayed her impressive vocal range and soulful voice. Cheers were heard all around as she performed the song that won her the Malaysian Idol, Gemilang. As strains of the familiar melody floated through the hall, the crowd went into rapturous delight and cheered wildly. The atmosphere at that time was stunning.

Moreover, the all girl band "Free to Fall" was also there. Nothing screams louder than girl power for this band of extremely young and talented girls rocking out in electric guitars and drums. They have been featured in Channel V and was the winner of Malaysian Revival Songwriting Competition (MRSC) in Dec 2008. Other groups were also present to showcase their talent and to entertain the night, "Street Temple" a hip hop dance group by a group of four Russians and "Saved" a pop dance team were there to wowed us with their impeccable dance choreography.

The last day of the conference took place at the Word of Life Church. Pastor Matts Ola led the final session. In total there were 5 sessions. Jacyln Victor took the stage once more and delivered yet another trademark stunning performance. The congregation rose to their feet and gave her a standing ovation as the last few notes reverbrated around the hall. After yet another inspiring talk by Ps. Matts-Ola, the curtain came down on what was truly an amazing conference. As the last few guests trickled out the front door, it was obvious by the look on everyone's faces that it was truly a memorable experience and worth while indeed.

Written by,

Kimberley Eddy