Archbishop Yong re-elected as the Archbishop of the

The Most Reverend Datuk Yong Ping Chung, Bishop of Sabah was re-elected as the Archbishop of the  Province of the Anglican Church in S E Asia at the Extraordinary Meeting of the Synod held in Kudat, Sabah on 20 November 2003.

The Provincial Synod assembled from 18 to 19 November 2003 for a 2-day retreat, meditation and continuous prayers in preparation for the election of the Archbishop. All 32 Synod members, Provincial officials and their spouses attended the retreat.

Following the close of the retreat sessions, Synod members held a time of sharing of the perceived needs of the Province. The session was held in the absence of all the 4 Diocesan Bishops. It was clear that members shared a common vision to have a man appointed by God to lead the Province in the challenging times ahead. Members then retired to their rooms for prayers to seek the Lord’s hand over the election.

The election was conducted by secret ballot following a Holy Communion service on the morning of 20 November 2003 and the result was announced at 9.35 am.

In his acceptance speech, Archbishop Yong said: “I humbly accept your mandate as Primate of this Province. The last 4 years had not been easy but we did it because our focus was on Jesus and not on the problems. I know I cannot do it on my own. I ask that as you have given me the mandate, please also continue to give me your support for the tasks ahead.”  Referring to John 17:20-23, the Archbishop urged all members of the Province to “Let the Spirit take hold of us so that we may be one in Christ.”