Timothy Leong first came to a SJM event and attended a few LIFE group (LG) sessions as a student in 2011 before the demands of canoeing, his co-curriculum activity, took over. Currently, at 27 years of age, he is training to be a teacher and preparing for marriage next year.
How did you reconnect with SYFC after leaving school?
After National Service and before university in 2019, I had a long break and was looking for internship in a Christian ministry. When I attended a conference on full-time ministry, I met Chien Chong. We chatted about the possibility of interning in SYFC and he then introduced me to a SJM staff.
What do you do in SJM?
From 2019 onwards, as a volunteer, I started meeting students in different L.I.F.E Groups (LG). Occasionally, I conducted talks on topics like science and religion. Thereafter, I led a team of staff and volunteers to reach students in Bishan area. In 2024, I stepped down from that role and now I am part of a team that trains volunteers.
What were some of your challenges as a volunteer?
Definitely, time and energy! It was hard to juggle commitments in school, church, volunteering with other organisations and SYFC. And it was discouraging when students didn’t turn up for LG, especially when the group started with a lot of them and over time, the number dwindled. There were times I felt very helpless over what to do and whether I’m handling the group ‘wrongly’.
So what kept you going in SYFC?
The Lord was growing me in resilience and perseverance to serve Him through these challenges. To me, this is a great blessing since James 1:2-3 tells us to rejoice when we encounter trials, knowing it will ultimately produce perseverance.
Also, knowing students and seeing them grow is a real joy. I am encouraged when I see how God has graciously has used me in the students’ lives, like Yuan An who was in Project Serve this year. I was his LG leader for four years!
The SYFC community of staff and volunteers whom I serve with, plus the teaching I have received over the years are also channels God has used to grow me.
How can our readers pray for you?
For my wedding next year and the new season of priorities like marriage and family where I will learn to lead, to love as husband. In the same period, there will be a lot of decisions to make (like housing) and I will also be starting work as a teacher. Hebrews 12:1-2 is very helpful as I consider the transitions ahead. So, it will be great if you can pray that I will continue to run the race with endurance, always looking to Jesus in faith.
