Beneath Singapore’s skyline stands Changi Bethany Church. This church has a rich story that spans decades. Let’s explore its history and contributions to the community.
In 1964, Miss Lu Ti Gu dedicated land to build a church. She wanted to spread the Gospel. The land was located on 31 Lorong Chabai at Koh Sek Lim Village. It was initially intended for a female missionary sanatorium.
Four elders formed a trustee. They were Luo Ka Bek, Lim Tong Siu, Gan Kiong Pang and Peter Sia. They began planning the church. They named it Bethany Church.
Preacher Mabel Ong became the first preacher in 1964. She reached out to the youth and neighboring residents. Her pioneering work laid the foundation for Changi Bethany Church.
In September 1975, Preacher Richard Teo became the church’s second preacher.
On September 25, 1977, Bethany Church registered under the Synod of the Presbyterian Church of Singapore. The name “Bethany Church” was already taken. So, it was renamed Changi Bethany Church.
The first Elders and Deacons Board was established. In 1979, an afternoon Hokkien-Chinese service began. An English service led by Preacher Yap Wai Keong started in 1980.
In 1981, the government acquired the land for development. The church faced relocation challenges. Despite a congregation of mostly senior citizens, students and blue-collar workers, they pressed on. They continued to preach His Word.
Pastor Richard Teo Ee Hock was appointed as CBC’s first Senior Pastor on October 20, 1984.
The government acquired the land in 1987. CBC entered a period of migratory sojourn. In 1988, Bethany moved to Joo Chiat Presbyterian Centre.
In the same year, Jurong Town Corporation allocated land on 694 Upper Changi Road East. It was allocated to Singapore Life Church, Bethany Presbyterian Church and Changi Bethany Church for a 30-year lease. Singapore Life Church and Bethany Presbyterian Church generously gave up their share to bless CBC.
A thanksgiving ground-breaking worship service was conducted on July 14, 1991.
Joo Chiat Presbyterian Centre’s land was also acquired in 1993. CBC then moved to Holy Grace Presbyterian Church. They held their evening services there.
In May 1994, CBC moved to its new location. This was after the first phase of the church building was completed. They celebrated their 30th anniversary. The basement auditorium was named Ka Bek Hall. It commemorated the late Elder Lok Ka Bek’s contribution.
In July 1994, the church started a kindergarten. This outreach ministry provided early childhood education in Changi.
After moving to the new church building, an afternoon English worship service started. It was in addition to the existing morning English worship service. Brothers and sisters from other churches initiated it.
A ground-breaking thanksgiving service for the second phase of church building was conducted in June 1997. Soon after completion in 1998, another afternoon English worship service began. Brothers and sisters from several other churches came together.
In December 2001, the afternoon English worship service was integrated with CBC’s existing English service.
Rev Richard Teo went for his sabbatical study leave in July 2002. Rev Andrew Hwang was appointed as the Interim Moderator.
In 2004, the sanctuary on the 3rd floor was named Tong Siu Hall. This commemorated the faithful service of Elder Lim Tong Siu.
In January 2005, the English service registered under the English Presbytery. It became Hope Presbyterian Church. On April 15, 2007, the Chinese youth worship service began.
Rev Richard Teo Ee Hock retired on July 5, 2008. He and his wife Preacher Ong Chau Sang were appointed local missionaries. They served the elderly community at Tampines Evergreen Circle.
Rev Dr Phua Leong Cheng Michael was appointed as CBC’s Interim Moderator in July 2008.
In May 2009, the Hokkien-Mandarin service divided. It became a Hokkien service and a Mandarin service. The Chinese youth worship integrated into the Mandarin service.
Rev Chau Soo Kheong was appointed as CBC’s second senior pastor and moderator in July 2010.
On April 2, 2013, the kindergarten became a childcare centre. It was renamed Changi Bethany School-House.
In September 2013, the Hokkien service was terminated. This prepared for a bilingual English-Chinese worship service.
CBC celebrated its 50th anniversary on August 10, 2014.
Changi Bethany Church stands as a testament to faith. It also shows dedication and service to the community. Its history reflects resilience and commitment. The church enriches the lives of those it serves.