Starting in 1980 Lutheran Missionaries who had served the church in Malaysia and Singapore began to have reunions. THE PURPOSE OF THESE "GET TOGETHERS" WAS TO MEET OLD Colleagues who had worked together. We not only learned what each other was doing, how the family was getting on, but we always had a time when someone would update us on the ministry of the church in Malaysia and Singapore. We always were eager to hear about the congregations we had served in, to hear about former co-workers and our many friends we had come to know and love in years past.

At first we only had reunions every 5 or 6 years. Around the year 2000 we decided to hold such reunions every other year. We have held these meetings in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, New Mexico, Minnesota, North Carolina, Arkansas and Georgia. Both Former Bishops, Daniel Chong and Gideon Chang as well as some former co workers and their spouses have joined us for some reunions. At the reunion held in 2007 Bishop Philip Loke of the LCMS invited the missionaries to have the 2009 reunion in Malaysia.

At that time there were 29  missionaries who planned to attend. As the time drew near some were not able to come because of health reasons or because of family commitments. The final number who came was 17. It was a joy for all to be back in a place and with people we love. For some it was the first time they had returned in 40 years. Naturally the changes were great. Above all what a joy to see the fruit of the sowing of the Gospel those many years ago.

On Sunday we preached in congregations that we had started years ago. We took part in the dedication of the new Luther Centre in Petaling Jaya. A beautiful 7 story building which houses the LCMS headquarters, with Glad Sounds occupying one floor, and auditorium seating 1,000 a chapel for 250 as well as conference , meeting and class rooms. There are also guest rooms on one floor and a roof garden. Indeed it is a building that will be a great blessing to the ministry of the church.

After the festivities in Malaysia eight of the group who had served in Singapore accepted the invitation of Bishop Terry Kee and the Lutheran Church in Singapore to attend a dinner and reception held for them. Here we were joined by many Singapore pastors and church workers as well as many Congregational members. Our cups were filled to over flowing with the love and warmth shown to us. We rejoiced in meeting old friends and former co-workers and visiting churches were we had served. "It was worth the Trip" to see all. May God continue to bless your ministry for Him. You are in our prayers.

~ Rev John Nelson