Harlow one and all! This is your editor wishing you all a happy return to school and a great semester ahead with CCM!!! As we look to fulfilling our goals for 1998, let us look to fulfilling them together as one Body in Christ! Right, about this issue then. First up, we have an inspiring message from our new president, Angie as she speaks from her heart about the things we can ALL do to serve in God's kingdom. Then, we hear from members who over the holidays had returned to Singapore and we find out from them what life was like there. Not much difference I'd think to activities had over here, considering the singular goal we have, to bring to the knowledge of others the warmth of the love and glory of God.

For our Orientation programmes this year, we are organising yet another great tour of the Great Ocean Road. I've been there a whopping 8 times and am still going strong. That's how good it is. We hope that as many of you as possible will make the trip with us. Then a week after, we are organising a BBQ, a classic of these Summer months that we hope you will make time for because it promises to be a time of fabulous fellowship, food and games.

In this issue, we hear from our dearly missed Priscilla , as she writes about the perils and the joys of her days in Melbourne. Accompanying her opinions are two by none other than our secretary Nat Ang, as he reviews a book and a CD. Then to round everything off, we have provided a list of CCM sponsorships, for your convenience, and as much details about them as we could gather. We hope that your life here will be aided by their generousity, coz really, every little bit counts.

And knowing that every little bit counts, realise also that any gift you can bring to the Kingdom of God, and to other brothers and sisters will ultimately go a long way. Be it a gift of loving aid in times of need, or even, simply, a generous smile. As we aim to fulfill the great commission that Christ gave us, let us remember that the world is made up of people like you and me, and each of us need God's love and each other's tenderness and warmth. Amen. - shei.

Greetings in the wonderful name of our Lord Jesus Christ. I trust this letter finds everyone in good spirits. A warm welcome to those who have just come back from your holidays, and also to those who have just arrived to study here. I trust that you all had a refreshing time with your family and friends. For those who stayed here over the whole summer, I'm sure you all had a great time and are now rejoicing because all our other brothers and sisters have returned from their hols.

I just want to take this opportunity to share something from my heart. I personally believe that 1998 will be an exciting year for all of us. As we have been faithfully planting the seeds in our Campus throughout 1997, this year will be a year of reaping souls. We must be ready and available for God to use as channels to bring many into His Kingdom. I challenge everyone not to be ashamed to proclaim the resurrection of Jesus. If we truly want to see more people to come to know God, I believe the key is the mobilisation of the whole group. I really desire to see our group mobilised to serve God fully. Each one of us has great talents and gifts, and so we must learn to refine our God-given talents to enrich ourselves to become a better servants of God. The Bible says that the manifestation of the Spirit is given to each one for the profit of all. (1 Corinthians 12:l7) . Each one of us has our own roles to play to build God's Kingdom. I strongly encourage everyone to seriously get involved in any area that match your giftings and your skills. Discover your giftings and develop them where you can serve most effectively. If you can't find any area that is of interest to you, you are most welcome to create a new ministry according to the needs of the group and for the benefits of God's Kingdom. The leaders in our group and the CCM Committee are most happy to receive your new idea and creativity. In this coming year, we have planned and organised plenty of programmes throughout the year that truly needs everyone's undying support and participation. Lets really enrol ourselves as a player not just a spectator in the "game of life". We need to be people who show excitement for Jesus.

However, from my own experience and heart's conviction, I have come to the realisation that programmes and activities are not going to bring us anywhere. I strongly believe that the key to extend God's Kingdom is our real spirit of heartfelt commitment and our zealous burning fire and passion for Jesus. The only way to maintain and increase our passion for God is to walk intimately with God because I believe that in order for us to live full and fruitful lives as Christians, we have to be continually plugged into the source of our strength and joy.

I am excited with the opportunities that are before us in 1998. I invite everyone to join us in influencing the students of today who might in turn influence the nations of tomorrow. Let's move together that we might help to fulfil the Great Commission of Jesus Christ.

In His Majesty's Service,

Angie NG

How is life in Australia??? Will the people there be friendly??? Will I be able to find true friends??? How do I get around Melbourne???

Sounds familiar??? Well, these were some of the questions asked by soon-to-be freshmen of the various Unies of Australia at the Great Australian Experience held in Singapore on 26th January 98.

The event was actually put together by the various Campus Christian Movements of Australia for students who would be going to Australia to study. The main objective of the event was for these freshmen to make new friends who would be going to the same Uni as themselves, or even the same state.

The event was supposed to start at 7pm sharp. But as usual, everyone seemed to be caught up in traffic or somehow got lost :) and therefore the evening only kicked off at about 7:15pm. The first item of the night was a "warm-up". Hee! ; ) There was lots of fun as all of us participated sportingly in the games planned and led by CCM Brisbane. So, thru these games, most of us got to know each other by name, or at least by sight.

After all the pumping of adrenaline, all of us sat down to enjoy a skit put up by various people. Magdelene, from Brisbane, also shared with us how she learnt the importance of having friends and how they have helped her in Australia.

Groughhhhh............ Opps! Do I hear someone's stomach grouching? Anyway, it came time to tuck into the delicious food and drinks for the night. After a few bites, everyone moved on to their respective "state corners " to meet their seniors and bombard them with all their questions!!! However, nobody asked for any past assignments. Maybe shy lah!!!

Very soon, the evening came to an end at 10pm although we still had so much to talk about!!!! Well, if you ask me... I truly had an enjoyable evening with my fellow CCMers from Perth, Canberrra, Sydney and Brisbane and I believe everybody who was present had a great time.

Well, if you freshmen out there should ever need any help, do not hesitate to give us a tinkle. Or if you are the shy type, send us an e-mail. We will be very happy to hear from you! Our names and contacts are listed in this issue of the CCM Newsletter. Meanwhile, do enjoy your stay in Melbourne and study hard but PLAY EVEN HARDER!!!! Ciao... and till we meet again, God Bless!!!

Karen Lee

I have been singing this song in church since I was nine years old. However, Christmas then never started from deep within me. It was only a public holiday where I'd get to watch cartoons at home and then get dressed up either as an angel or Mother Mary to perform in church. It wasn't until these last few years when I finally gave my heart completely to Jesus that I felt the true meaning of Christmas.

Christmas in Singapore this year was probably the most meaningful one in my life. Instead of just performing for my parents (as in Sunday school), we performed for people in a hospital. Many of them had been hospitalised because of their old age rather than any truly major illness. Only for a little boy who was there for a broken leg. We sang songs to them but many couldn't understand the English songs we were singing, so we surprised them with a simple Cantonese song. We could see smiling faces and hands clapping even though their sense of rhythm was ..... well ....not too good, but from their faces, we knew we meant a lot to them.

Presents were distributed to every one of the patients and we all helped to wheel them back. We were given about half an hour to talk to them. The lady I was talking to (with much difficulty since she could only understand Cantonese), is in her eighties. We asked her why she was in the hospital but she only shook her head and said she didn't know.

"My son sent me here", she replied still smiling, probably pleased with the one and only present she has received for that Christmas. However, looking around, you could see many other patients who seemed purposeless and who seemed to have lost all meaning to life. Many of us, including myself do not appreciate our youth. If you had the chance to see the people there, you would realise that if you don't catch on to your youth, it would disappear for sure. The worst is probably to know your life was not spent meaningfully but all that could be done is to watch TV and see your life waste away and your body weakening. I was really glad to be able to share my Christmas with people who needed its warmth and appreciated its simplicity.

Indeed Christmas isn't Christmas until it happens in your heart and not from your bank account. My greatest gift for Christmas this year was a priceless lesson that money cannot buy.

Lizzie Beh

Join our much celebrated tour extravaganza as we hit ONCE AGAIN!!! THE GREAT OCEAN ROAD! Come along with us and soak in the marvellous sights of the famed and wonderous TWELVE APOSTLES as well as the beautifully sculpted LOCH ARD GORGE! Indulge with us in the luxuries of a world-class coach as we cruise this fabulous coastline drive. Unbeatably priced at $25 for members and $30 for non-members, this is truly a trip of a lifetime! Have fun with us and as we muck around (as we usually do) in the coaches, and then lunch with us with your own packed lunch (we recommend sandwiches and the lot) as we zip through towns like Geelong, Torquay, Lorne and Port Campbell. See you there!

Further details may be obtained at our Orientation Counter along the Dorey Mall, or with a call to Angie at 9572-4180.

BBQ!! BBQ!!! Hallow Everyone!!! Interested in joining us for a morning of BBQ and games??? Yum! A fine spread consisting of BBQ faves such as Chicken Wings, Sausages and Salad will be available!!! Feeling hungry already??? Well, come on down to Studley Park in Kew on 21st March, Saturday at 10:30am to tuck into all the delicious food. It will cost you $$0 to come! Umm ... except transportation cost. Remember to ask a few friends to come along as well! Uhh? No friends??? Come along and make new ones!!! No matter what, just come, okay? Any questions? Call Angie the Great Engineer!!! 9572-4180. See you there!!!

Hey! It's another fabulous time of the year where we can come together and live in seclusion, (well, almost) to have a great time with all our Campus Christian Movement Melbourne brothers and sisters. As with the past few years, we will be spending 4 fabulous days at the Coonawarra Resort in beautiful Gippland. Quick! Take out your pen and mark off the 10th - 13th of April on your calendar! It costs only AUD$125 which includes food and accommodation if you sign up by 14th March (otherwise a higher fee applies).

Right then... What will we do there??? Well, there'll be games, sightseeing, horse-riding and of course, of course, the invaluable lessons that we will receive from Dr Varun Laohaprasit. A short introduction for those who have not heard of him, Dr Laohaprasit is a very well known neuro-surgeon and he will be speaking on the theme of Anointing Breaks the Yoke!

Quick! Grab hold of Angie Ng at 9572-4180 for an application form today! And don't forget to come prepared to be anointed by our Almighty God. Amen!

As we excitedly await the next CCM Australia camp, our brothers and sisters in Canberra are as yet in the midst of making preparations for our visit. So even as we uphold them and their ministries in prayer, let us all continue in the enthusiasm that surrounds our CCMA camps, and indeed, let us have great Expectations in our Lord, even as He works in them who will be hosting us this year!

Do not give up meeting together as some are in the habit of doing, but let us encourage one another - and all the more as you see the day approaching.

CCM meets regularly every week for a time of fellowship, praise & worship and Bible-study. Do come along for these meetings, as they are catered to refresh your heart, mind and soul with fresh words from our Father, and warm love from His children. This is where friendships blossom and commitment grows as the Word is instilled in our lives and we experience the marvellous presence of Our God. Transportation is not an issue with us as we have ample volunteers each week to drive our members and visitors home. So come along for a totally stress free, worshipful evening with your friends here at CCM!

Every alternate Saturday, CCM organises a sporting day, where members get together for a time of fitness & fun. Most of this takes place at the very new, very improved sport complex at the Clayton campus, where we indulge in court games like Tennis, Basketball & Squash. Swimming is also a great fave, especially in these summer months. So should you be interested in a fortnightly session of sports and rec and plain good company, give Newson a buzz at 0414-336-585 and I'm sure he'll be happy to fix you up with any of the available groups.

Note: any other activities may be organised- if you're interested in doing something less-done, like bush-walking, rowing, horse-riding, dancing, rock-climbing, cycling... you get the idea... give Newson a ring and he'll see what can be arranged.

Angie Ng [President]
e-mail: lcng4@student.monash.edu.au

Sharon Lee [Vice President]
e-mail: yllee8@student.monash.edu.au

Nathanael Ang [Secretary]
e-mail: nath@yoyo.cc.monash.edu.au

Lily Hu [Treasurer]
e-mail: lily@yoyo.cc.monash.edu.au

Karen Lee [Publication]
e-mail: yllee5@student.monash.edu.au

Jane Ho [Publicity]
e-mail: wcho10@student.monash.edu.au

Mavis Chew [Publicity]
e-mail: blur@yoyo.cc.monash.edu.au

Meena Sharma [Clayton Co-ordinator]
e-mail: mksha1@student.monash.edu.au

Shei-Lin Teo [Publication]
e-mail: steo2@student.monash.edu.au

I remembered the first time I landed in Melbourne, feeling both excited and anxious over my new environment. However, my jaw dropped when I opened the door of my new habitat- the halls of residence, Clayton. Yucks! What distasteful woody panels and jail-like moving space. That placed my trip to a bad start, not mentioning the superficial hi-bye "pals" that populated the halls (at least they seemed like that initially), the loneliness in University and the erratic weather that constantly confused my dressing. By and by, I made friends, got used to the people and surrendered to the fact that no matter how I shifted my furniture, my room would still be small.

Amidst the hustle and bustle of Uni, tutorials, lectures (yikes!:(), stress and the hall's food (double yikes:(), a big part of my stay was the Church and fellowship that I found. It enriched and deepened my religious standing and developed many issues in my life like my sense of purpose, character and way of living. The fellowship was great as my church was like a overseas family. This itself was a big consolation. Plus all the free meals I got from church members during exams and many heartfelt grumbling sessions about stress and assignments with my pals from church was an unforgettable part of my life there. However the greatest thing that happened was the growth and maturity of my Christian walk with God. It brought a lot of sense to Christianity and also instilled passion in the things that I did. It also steered my attention to important things in my life like relationships, family and friends.

In retrospect, Australia has not only been an educational experience for me, it has also been one of character growth. Incidentally, these experiences have been of much help at this point when I am still unemployed. :) My confidence and trust in God expels any form of worry and my maturity has taught me to be patient.

So you see, Australia is not just about yucky halls food and ugly lectures.
Priscilla Ang

"Where is God when it hurts", by Philip Yancey, gives a realistic answer to this question which many have honestly asked. I discovered that the very nature of the book's title beckons one to pick it up and read it. My mum did just that! Of all the books that I had, she chose this. And when I was reading the book in the salon, a customer eyed curiously over the title. I wonder if your reaction is similar to theirs.

In this book, Yancey examines, first of all, the reality and purpose of the existence of suffering and pain. He mentions that physical pain is essential for life on this planet. It is a proven fact that without the sensation of pain, our lives would be in grave danger - as the author discovered through meeting with people suffering from Hansen's disease, better known as leprosy.

In the following section, he uses examples of real-life people who met with catastrophes to illustrate the extent to which people seem to have misconceptions of God and why He allows such bad things to happen. Many of these people found themselves helpless and doubted the fairness of God. Some, in fact, surrendered up their arguments and chose to accept God's love but question God's power. They came to a conclusion that God desires to help, but cannot. But Yancey wrote about the interesting encounter between Job and God that demonstrated God's sovereignty, wisdom and power over ALL things.

With more real-life examples of people who suffered from physical disabilities, Yancey provides us with an inspiring look into overcoming fears and doubts. One worthy of mention, is Joni Eareckson - does her name ring a bell to you? Though she had firmly believed that she would be healed completely of her paralysis, it was not to be the case. Instead, she came to see the grace of God through her pain and learnt a lesson of faith in God. And the question of "Does lack of healing mean lack of faith?" was answered in her life - to this day, she is a shining testimony of the work of God.

After hearing about the lives of those who suffered, Yancey proceeds to discuss four "frontiers" where every suffering person will do in battle: the frontiers of fear, helplessness, meaning and hope. Our response to suffering depends largely on the outcome of our struggle in those frontiers. From the examination of the frontier of hope, I like how he defines that "hope means simply the belief that something good lies ahead. It is not the same as optimism or wishful thinking, for these imply a denial of reality. Often, I think, those of us who stand alongside suffering people tend to confuse hope and optimism."

Finally, he addresses the question that many suffering people eventually ask:" Where is God? How does He feel about my plight? Does He care?" Through the Suffering Messiah, Jesus - Yancey dispels any doubts about the love of God. In conclusion, he brings to attention that we - the Body of Christ, are to be part of God's response to the massive suffering in this world. We are to minister to the needy and whilst people ask the question "Where is God when it hurts?" we ought to ask, "Where is the church when it hurts?"

On a personal note, I find that this book provides a clear and biblical perspective of suffering in this world. It has provided me with the assurance of God's sovereign rule in the lives of His creation and that He hears every cry of despair. He has been through it in Calvary - and He understands it better than us!
Nathanael Ang

This compilation truly reveals Boltz's song-writing talents. Through reading the introduction to every song, I see that there is a deep sense of purpose and meaning behind the creation of each song.

"I Pledge Allegiance to the Lamb" depicts the unshakeable faith of martyrs and the hope of victory in Jesus. The song was inspired by Ray's trip to Africa with a mission group where they used a drama called "Allegiance" to share the gospel.

"The Hammer" strikes a portrait of the crucifixion of Christ. The writer imagines himself standing in the crowd at the foot of the cross upon which Jesus died, angry with the injustice done to Jesus. And he writes,

Indeed, it was us who nailed Christ to the Cross.

My personal favourites are "Watch the Lamb" and "Thank You". The former seems to be a re-enactment of Christ's painful journey along the road to Calvary as seen through the eyes of Simon of Cyrene. It is a reminder to keep our eyes focussed on Jesus amidst all the distractions possibly faced. The latter is a beautiful piece of encouragement to what we're doing here on earth - the sacrifices we've made will be counted for in eternity.

Then there are other songs based on the characters in the Bible that teaches about servant-hood, forgiveness, hope and intimacy with Christ. I'm amazed with the way Boltz portrays the lives of these inspiring characters and sculpts them into songs.

Honestly, just by listening to this album a few times or so, it may seem to lack any "catchy tunes" and appear to be a far cry from the usual "Praise & Worship" albums that most of us are accustomed to. But the richness in the lyrics makes this album one that you'll never find "stale". It's one of the few albums that can stand the test of time. Trust me!
Nathanael Ang

Keswick Bookshops Inc.
1st Floor, Port Philip Arcade, 232
Flinders St., Melbourne 3000
9654 8188
Sells Christian books, CDs, cassettes, gifts, posters, etc.
15% discount on all books purchased, 10% discount on videos, CDs and cassettes purchased. Discounts do not apply for items on special.

Chinatown Duty Free Shop
206 Lt. Bourke St., Melbourne 3000.
9663 1390
Sells duty-free products such as abalone and seafood (fresh frozen or canned), nougat, macadamia nuts, chocolates, wool products, health products, souvenirs, T-shirts, perfume, opals, etc.

5-20% discount on different types of products.

Andy's Café
Cnr. Queens Avenue and Sir John Monash Drive, Caulfield East.
9571 0936
10% discount on all items.

Seng Hing Restaurant
1 Derby Road, Caulfield East
9571 9186
10% discount on main course items only.

Caulfield Chinese Restaurant
11-12 Sir John Monash Drive, Caulfield East.
10% discount on catering functions. (Value must be of $50 and above).
10% discount on dine-in meals. Main course only (Value must exceed $30).
NB. This applies only to a group.

McDonalds Restaurant
At Mac's Burwood, Chadstone, Clayton, Holmesglen, Noble Park and Waverly Gardens.
Show card before ordering a LARGE Extra Value Meal and receive a FREE dessert.

Tai-Pan Cake Shop
256 Swanston St., Melbourne 3000.
9663-2981

Sells wedding cakes, birthday cakes, Chinese and European cakes and Hong Kong style bread.
10% discount on all purchases.

Top 5 Computer Group
769 Centre Rd., Bentleigh East 3165
9571 8355

1375 Toorak Rd., Burwood 3125
98891355

45 William St., Melbourne 3000
9889 1355

5% discount on all computer systems purchased.

CDF Travel Pty. Ltd.
1st Floor, 206 Lt. Bourke St., Melbourne 3000.
9663 7771

$5 to $50 cash vouchers with purchase of air-tickets or joining of tours.

They:

• Sell competitively priced air-tickets to Hong Kong, Singapore, Malaysia and Taiwan.

• Organise day tours for sightseeing trips, European Countries tour, America and Canada tour, Fishing Trips, Cruises and others
  
• Sell air-tickets to Australia and other countries.

Kings Hairdressing
Shop 115, level 1, Melbourne Central.
9639 1355

Shop Lower Ground 14A, Melbourne Central.
9663 8359

Offers professional services at an affordable price for students.

Men's Haircut: $17.50
Ladies': $20.00

Pizza Haven
Any outlets in Victoria.

Newspower Newsagency
14 Derby Rd., Caulfield East.
9571-6194

Lat's Malaysian Cuisine Restaurant
15-17 Heffernan Lane, Lt. Bourke St., Melbourne 3000.
9669 2848

Multi-award winning restaurant at American Express Food Festival.
Best Asian Food Award, Excellent Malaysian Cuisine Award, Best Value for Money Award, Best Service and Welcome Award.
Four-star rating by The Herald Sun.

CCM