Gongs instead of bells? Here at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, you will find something unique. This church stands as a testament to Singapore’s rich history and diverse cultural influences. It offers a serene escape from the city’s hustle.
The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus’ story begins in the early 20th century. The Catholic population in Singapore was growing. Many Chinese Catholics attended the Church of Sts Peter and Paul. Father Vincent Gazeau recognized the need for a new church. He wanted to serve the Cantonese and Hakka-speaking Catholics. In 1908, he initiated a building fund.
Legend says that the site for the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus became available after a novena. The site was an old, abandoned soya sauce factory. It was located behind Fort Canning Hill. Father Louis Lambert, a French priest-architect, designed the church. He chose the French Baroque style. The design included two side altars. These were dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Joseph. Parisian artists sculpted life-sized statues. French stonemasons carved the white marble altars.
Three wealthy Chinese benefactors largely financed the construction. Mr. Chan Teck Hee, Mr. Low Kiok Chiang, and Mr. Cheong Quee Thiam were key contributors. Mr. Low Kiok Chiang donated the teak pews. He had them carved from chengai wood in Bangkok. Mr. Lim Sin Tat gifted the Baptismal Font. Mr. Low Kiok Chiang and Mr. Chan Teck Hee provided the stained glass features. Mr. Chan Teck Hee also donated the central altar.
Bishop Barillon blessed the completed Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus on September 11, 1910. The first parishioners included 200 Cantonese and Hakka Catholics. By 1935, the congregation had grown to 2,150.
During World War II, on February 15, 1942, Japanese shells hit the church. The roof, ceiling, pews, and fittings were destroyed. Thankfully, no one was hurt. The Chinese New Year thanksgiving mass had already concluded that morning.
The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus has undergone several renovations since then. These upgrades occurred in 1969, 1985, 2002, and 2007. Father Paul Tay oversaw the last renovation. It included a seven-and-a-half-story community building. Two shop houses were part of the frontage. A columbarium garden was also added behind the church.
Before the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus was built, the Parochial House served many purposes. Mr. Chan Teck Hee donated it. It functioned as an anti-opium clinic and the Catholic Young Men’s Association. Today, it houses the Archdiocesan Office for Human Resources.
Today, as you stand before the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, notice the two stone lions guarding the entrance. These are in Chinese style. The lions protect the church from evil spirits. Instead of traditional church bells, a Chinese gong is used here. It reflects the unique blend of cultures. The church is dedicated to the Sacred Heart of Jesus. It focuses on love and compassion for humanity. The Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus is more than a building. It is a symbol of faith. It is a testament to community. It is a unique blend of cultures in the heart of Singapore.