Like every missions trip, the weeks leading up to Wesley’s first missions trip to Timor-Leste in June 2026 were filled with a flurry of activity, detailed planning of programmes and games, and logistical preparations.
But as the trip to St Paul Methodist School (SPMS) unfolded, God reminded us that missions are not built on perfect plans, but on obedience to Him. Each day, He provided exactly what was needed: team members, resources and energy.
ENOUGH PEOPLE
The team had originally expected to travel with 13 members. However, in the days leading up to the trip, three trippers were unable to make it. A significant turn of events came when a team member, a key liaison with SPMS who was familiar with the school’s context, was hospitalised the night before the team’s early morning flight.
Despite the smaller team, every workshop, camp activity, devotion and classroom session went ahead. When some members grew tired after long days, others stepped in. Medicines were shared, teammates covered for one another and everyone served where needed.
Trip leader Cassandra Leung reflected, “We give thanks for the many ‘it is enough’ experiences. I was a bit disturbed by the shortfall in team members, but God carried us through.”
She also witnessed “a cohesive, united and hardworking team who moved in tandem with the needs of SPMS and of one another”.
Assistant trip leader Liana Seah saw God’s hand in assembling the team. “God assembled this team for the work He has for us,” she reflected. “There’s much to do in Timor, and there’s a role for Wesleyans in this season.”
ENOUGH RESOURCES
God’s provision was also seen in practical ways. A shipment of 75 water bottles for the SPMS campers was cancelled just a few days before we were due to fly. A quick trip to a shop revealed exactly 75 water bottles available.
Accommodation, too, became an unexpected provision. Instead of staying with the hostelites or commuting an hour each way from Dili, the team was given its own quarters, allowing us to rest well and serve more effectively.
Even small travel incidents became reminders of God’s care. Treasurer Charlie Ang reflected on smooth flights, seamless connections and even the recovery of a passport accidentally left behind at a restaurant as signs of “God’s protection over every detail”.
ENOUGH FLEXIBILITY
The team also learned to hold their plans lightly.
Several sessions with the 30 hostelites were adjusted after observing how the students responded. The workshop on note-taking was simplified after the first session, while a planned devotion on the Good Samaritan was replaced with one on Jesus washing His disciples’ feet.
We also planned and revised games for Grade 11 and 12 students who were involved in a three-day leadership camp. The games focused on the themes of “My Worth”, “My Gift” and “Our Service”, building from how we are unique and priceless individuals to identifying our gifts and considering how we can serve.
Liana reflected, “Having pockets of time to review the activity allowed us the flexibility to pivot and make it land with the students.”
Rather than disruptions, these changes became opportunities to follow the Spirit’s leading.
ENOUGH TO BUILD CONNECTION
The team’s time with the hostelites was short, yet even within these limitations, God provided enough moments of connection.
Joyce Ang reflected, “The hostelite programme was a powerful reminder that ministry begins with presence. God’s love is often experienced through presence, listening, encouragement and prayer.”
“God may be challenging us to slow down and see people as He sees them. He calls us to be faithful rather than impressive, to serve humbly rather than seek recognition and to invest in people rather than activities,” she added.
Even simple activities became bridges. Pickleball unexpectedly became an avenue for building relationships with some of the hostelites. Mind mapping, which was meant to teach study skills, became a way for students to share about their own lives.
“What stood out most was how quickly the students opened up when they sensed genuine care and interest. Through conversations, games, prayer and simply spending time together, many shared about their families, dreams, struggles and hopes for the future,” said Joyce.
ENOUGH LOVE TO SERVE
Perhaps one of the most powerful moments came through the washing of feet.
Originally an unplanned addition, it became a deeply moving session on servant leadership. Some team members felt hesitant and unsure at first.
Charlie reflected on “my own fears, anxiety and uncertainty before the feet-washing session” and how “comfort zones can limit ministry opportunities”.
Yet as the evening unfolded, the students responded with openness. Some became emotional as they were prayed for. Others later volunteered to wash the feet of leaders, teachers and staff. In the end, even the trippers found themselves receiving from the hostelites.
Liana described it as “really amazing to see the outpouring of the Holy Spirit”, and was humbled to see many students come forward to wash the leaders’ feet.
As Joyce summed it up, “Leadership in God’s kingdom is expressed through service.”
ENOUGH FAITHFULNESS ALREADY THERE
Wesley’s trip was exploratory, but it quickly became clear that God had already been at work long before the team arrived.
We saw this in the dedication of SPMS leaders and staff, in the daily devotions, in the care of hostel parents and in the faithful service of those who carry out the school’s work day by day.
“I noticed that the principal was able to call many students by name,” shared Cassandra. “It is a caring community of leaders.”
She also observed “God’s goodness towards the school”, noting that it had not been without spiritual battles. After 11 years of hard work, she sensed the need for fresh support and continued prayer.
ENOUGH FOR THE FIRST STEP
This first missions trip to Timor-Leste was not meant to meet every need or answer every question. It was a first step: to listen, learn, serve and discern how Wesley might meaningfully partner with SPMS in the future.
There is still much to learn: overcoming language barriers, deepening relationships, supporting teachers and responding to practical needs within the school. But for this first step, God provided enough.
Susy Santoso reflected, “His holy presence and His Spirit were moving among us throughout the sessions.”
For Beatrice Lim, the trip was both encouraging and reassuring. “I am really thankful for how God sustained us each day with just enough, and for a team that was sensitive to His leading.”
The team returned knowing that the work is far from complete, but also trusting that the God who provided for this first step will continue to guide the next.
“Leadership in God’s kingdom is expressed through service.”
PRAYER FOR ST PAUL METHODIST SCHOOL
1. For the students and hostelites
• Spiritual growth and a deeper relationship with God
• Growth in confidence, character and servant leadership
• Protection and provision
• Strength for those facing family, financial or personal challenges
2. For the school staff and leaders
• Wisdom, strength and discernment for the leadership team
• Joy and perseverance for the hostel parents
• Motivation and encouragement for teachers
3. For the school
• Continued growth as a place of hope, learning and transformation
• A strong Christian culture and student leadership
• Lasting fruit from the ministry and partnerships
• God’s continued protection and provision over the school
4. For Timor-Leste
• God’s restoration in the nation
• Stable governance and greater employment opportunities
• Lives transformed through education
5. For Wesley Methodist Church
• Wisdom as Wesley discerns a future partnership with SPMS
• Courage to use our gifts in God’s mission beyond Singapore
• Lessons from the trip to continue shaping our lives and service
(Photos courtesy of Wesley Missions)
Read Related Article: The Many Faces of Mission at St Paul Methodist Church
