Ruth Song knew little about SYFC but much about troubled youth through her secular work experiences. Her heart was always drawn to them but could not share the gospel in that environment. Today however, she talks with them about the Lord as much as she can.
What is your role in Youth Guidance?
As the main coordinator for two programmes with children of the incarcerated, I’m the point of contact with partnering organisations, I help to plan the content/curriculum and I teach.
I support a school programme as well as the programmes for two girls’ residential homes, a drug rehabilitation centre, and a drop-in centre. I also assist at our Saturday Christian Fellowship where youths have tuition, Bible teaching, games and sports. I make time for Bible study with two girls.
What led you to join us as a full-time staff?
I see God’s hand preparing me for this ministry. During my previous work experience as a polytechnic lecturer, followed by working at the Institute of Mental Health and the Social Service Office, I developed a special burden for disadvantaged youths I met – perhaps because they had such a long road ahead in their seemingly hopeless circumstances.
In early 2021, I quit work as my mum was at the end of battling with cancer. After she passed on, I thought of what to do next. At a prayer meeting, a SYFC staff shared about YG Ministry. I connected with him later and did an internship. Then in March 2022, I converted to full-time.
What is one important lesson you learnt as a full-time staff?
I learnt to trust that God will provide. One of my main fears when deciding to convert to full-time was the need to raise financial support. But I took a step of faith in the midst of uncertainty, and God provided through encouraging supporters and a supportive church.
What do you like most in your outreach to troubled youth?
I like that I can play with the young people and the nature of the work. I enjoy outdoor activities with them like cycling, hiking and rock climbing.
What discourages you as you serve among troubled youth?
When they are unresponsive or stand me up. But each youth goes through different seasons, and I learn to trust in God’s timing and purposes.
What keeps you going in the work?
It is easy to feel discouraged as sometimes what’s done on a daily basis does not seem significant. But recently, through Bible teaching at a staff meeting, I was reminded that what makes our work glorious is not the work itself. It is God’s presence in the work that brings the glory.
So what keeps me going is knowing God is with me; He strengthens me. The work is not about me but about His glory.
