“Arise, shine, for your light has come.” These words from Isaiah greet you as we approach the Church of the Epiphany. This church stands as a beacon of God’s love right here in Jalan Kayu.
The Church of the Epiphany holds a special place in Singapore’s religious history. It is the first Anglican Tamil church in the Diocese of Singapore. But its story began long before it was formally established.
Let’s step back in time to the late 1930s. Many immigrants from South India came to this area. They settled in the kampongs and quarters of Jalan Kayu. Many also worked at the Royal Air Force Base in Seletar. These believers gathered in homes. They shared their Christian faith and a community began to grow. This humble beginning planted the seed for the Church of the Epiphany.
The Vicar of Christ Church, Reverend Canon Samuel Baboo, recognized the need for pastoral care. He started regular meetings in a makeshift attap shed. This shed was located off Lorong Thanggam. This provided a dedicated space for the community to worship and connect.
Over time, the congregation grew. After the Second World War, prayers moved to a shed with a metal roof along Lorong Thanggam. In 1965, Christ Church helped build a new chapel at the present site. The foundation stone was laid on January 1, 1966, by Group Captain R.W.G. Freer of the RAF. Reverend C.K. Sansbury, the Bishop of Singapore and Malaya, blessed the chapel. The Church of the Epiphany was officially dedicated on May 1, 1967.
For 52 years, the old Church of the Epiphany witnessed many changes. The Jalan Kayu Village, the Jalan Kayu Bus Terminal and the Jalan Kayu Primary School disappeared over time. In the nineties, the construction of the Tampines Expressway and Sengkang New Town further transformed the area.
The original white single-storey building was demolished to make way for a new five-storey church. During construction, church members held prayer sessions at the nearby Abundant Grace Presbyterian Church along Jalan Kayu.
Today, the Church of the Epiphany continues to serve its community. Services are held in English, Mandarin, and Tamil. The Church of the Epiphany welcomes people from all backgrounds. It embodies the spirit of unity and faith.
As you stand here, remember the journey of this church. From a simple attap shed to a vibrant house of worship. The Church of the Epiphany stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and community in Singapore.