“We often reverse the rhythm: work, burnout, recovery and then work again,” said Rev Dr William Sam, pastor overseeing Christian Outreach & Social Concerns (COSC), at its Volunteers’ Appreciation Lunch. “Rest is not the finish line after exhausting ourselves in service; it is the posture from which faithful ministry begins.”
On the morning of 12 September 2026, volunteers across Wesley’s diverse outreach arms gathered at Concorde Hotel Singapore. For teams that spend their weeks befriending frail seniors, journeying with migrant friends, visiting prisons and mentoring youth, the gathering offered a meaningful, unhurried space to reconnect.
“Rest is not the finish line after exhausting ourselves in service; it is the posture from which faithful ministry begins.”
The room was filled with laughter early on as tables competed in an interactive Kahoot! quiz before joining in acoustic worship. Drawing from Matthew 11:28–30, Pastor William unpacked the morning’s theme: “Reorder, Refuel, Re-yoke.” Echoing the Desert Fathers, he urged servants never to run on empty, reminding all that fruitfulness flows from being tethered closely to Christ’s gentle yoke.
The message resonated deeply across the room. “Today’s sermon by Pastor William was so encouraging on the need to rest before serving,” one volunteer reflected after the session. Another attendee noted: “I was just so glad to reconnect with fellow volunteers I hadn’t seen for quite some time.”
A pivotal moment followed with the COSC main committee dedication. Sincere gratitude and a tribute video honoured outgoing chairperson Alvin Chua for his steadfast stewardship. Incoming chairperson Daniel Tong then stepped forward, delivering an inspiring address titled “A Heart for the Ministry” and highlighting upcoming developments for COSC. Long-serving volunteers who had faithfully poured 10 to over 30 years into social outreach were also recognised for their quiet, enduring commitment.
Building on that foundation, Pastor-in-Charge Rev Raymond Fong took the floor to share Wesley’s roadmap under Vision 2035. Pastor Raymond highlighted how social concerns remain integral to Wesley’s missional heartbeat, encouraging volunteers to look outward with renewed compassion, strengthen community partnerships and intentionally notice and care for the marginalised in Singapore.
Sub-ministry tribute videos captured touching glimpses of lives touched through COSC over the past year, before everyone gathered for a group photo and a delightful lunch spread.
Tables buzzed with lively chatter, shared stories and deep camaraderie as members affirmed the organising team for bringing the whole COSC family together. Volunteers stepped back into their respective ministry fields refuelled, anchored in Christ’s rest and united for the journey ahead.
About COSC
Christian Outreach & Social Concerns (COSC) is the social outreach arm of Wesley Methodist Church. COSC actively walks alongside vulnerable and underserved communities, including the elderly, youth-at-risk, migrant workers, the Deaf community and ex-offenders, through practical care and Christ-centred friendship. To find out more or volunteer, email cosc@wesleymc.org.
(Photos by William Choo)
Read also: Wesley Prison Ministry Christmas Outreach: Blessings, Belonging, Believing
