Reaching out to the Cantonese-speaking community was the initial vision of Grace Church. It was founded on January 24, 1950, by Reverend Ho Yew Kin. It was formerly known as Grace Overseas Chinese Christian Church.
This Grace Church we see before us today has a rich history. It reflects the changing demographics and spiritual needs of Singapore. Let’s delve into its story.
In the 1950s Singapore saw many immigrants arriving from Hong Kong and Guangdong. Reverend Ho Yew Kin recognized the need for a church. It would serve this growing community.
Initially, Grace Church had only 50 members. They gathered at a rented worship hall. It was located in the Chinese YMCA off Selegie Road. Cantonese was their main language.
The congregation desired a permanent home. They started raising funds in the 1970s. They managed to buy land at 14 Queen Street. The new Grace Church building officially opened on August 22, 1971.
Reverend Jacob Fung became the second senior pastor that same year. Reverend Chan Fong followed him in 1983. Rev Chan Fong stepped down in 2010. Reverend Chua Yeow San became the fourth Senior Pastor in May 2010.
The Grace Church adapted to the evolving needs of its members. The English Congregation was formed in 1980. The Mandarin Congregation followed in 1985. This catered to the descendants of immigrants. These descendants spoke English and Mandarin.
Grace Church has grown considerably. In 2024, it had 1,399 members. Today, 14 pastoral and ministry staff serve the Grace Church. Eight admin staff support their work. Worship services are held in Mandarin, English, and Cantonese. These take place on both Sunday and Saturday. The Grace Church is also involved in mission ministry.
Grace Church believes in the Bible as the ultimate authority. They believe in one God in three persons. These persons are the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. They also believe that Jesus Christ died for the sins of mankind.
Grace Church holds firm positions on spiritual matters. It believes the Bible mentions only one tongue. This is a foreign language, not spiritual utterances. The Grace Church does not encourage speaking in tongues. They also do not encourage attending healing rallies.
Grace Church is also involved in various ministries. These include a vibrant Youth Worship Service. They also run an Elderly World Ministry. This actively engages seniors. Grace Church supports over 80 missionaries. They also support mission projects worldwide.
Grace Church supports community outreach through Grace Community Outreach. They strive to bring the hope of the Gospel. They reach out to those in need. Their efforts target community members near their two campuses.
Note the 4-storey facade treatment here. It is made up of glass louvres. The tempered glass panes provide transparency and lightness. They also give a dynamic character. This comes from the interplay of light and shadow.
Grace Church has come a long way since its humble beginnings. From a small group of Cantonese-speaking immigrants. It has grown into a large diverse congregation. It continues to serve the spiritual needs of Singapore. The Grace Church stands as a beacon of faith. It exemplifies adaptability and commitment to its mission.