5 Questions With...Marojahan ("Ojah") Tampubolon

1. How did you first get involved with Friendship Presbyterian? I came to Taiwan from Indonesia to pursue my Master’s degree in 2012. The main reason I came to Taiwan is that Taiwan provided a scholarship, in addition to its high-quality education, especially in electronic engineering. I was introduced to FPC by a brother I met in my grad-school department, who had also graduated from my high school. A few months later, I joined the newcomer meeting in Pastor Dennis’ house. It was the first time for me to get to know more about Pastor and some people in FPC. FPC was the first church I visited in Taipei and I have never thought to find another church. I was attracted by the fellowship time in the fellowship hall. For me, it was unique because I have never found this kind of fellowship style before. Another reason that makes me stay on is that the teaching is biblical, gospel-centered, and very profound. I joined the membership around May 2013. 

2. What do you do Monday through Saturday? In this last month, from Monday to Friday, I have been working for a company in Hsinchu. Basically, I am doing things related to electronic devices. Saturday is just like a typical day off. When I was a student, I would sometimes visit nice places in Taiwan or just hang out with friends. But now, I always go to Taipei to join the Bible study in our school on Sunday afternoon.

3. What is something people might be surprised to know about you? I do not think I have something that might surprise people. But this one might be surprising for all the modern people in our congregation. When I call my parents back home, I have to use an old 2G service because the service in our home area does not cover the more advanced telecommunication service. 

4. What do you find most challenging about being a Christian today? Well, for sure, the most challenging thing is to be like Christ. Firstly, because of the sinful nature of man. Secondly, because the freedom that the world offered has become so distorted such that we are tempted to downgrade our values and moral standards.  

5. What is one of your favorite books of the Bible? The book of Romans is my favorite. It is beautiful, deep, challenging, and very eloquent.