Was it fate or divine intervention that led the Assemblies of God to build what is now the Balestier Road Seventh-day Adventist Church? This church stands as a testament to faith and architectural ingenuity.
Let’s delve into the story of the Balestier Road Seventh-day Adventist Church. It is a story of transitions and transformations. Originally, the church was known as the Community Church. It was built in 1932 by the Assemblies of God. They are a different religious group. C. Y. Kong designed it. He envisioned it in the shape of a pipe organ.
Kong was a structural engineer. He designed many Art Deco buildings in the 1930s. The Balestier Road Seventh-day Adventist Church is an early example of this style. It combines Zigzag Moderne and Streamline Moderne features.
Look closely at the facade facing Balestier Road. Notice the vertical bands. They are arranged symmetrically. They rise to a central band. It ends in a semi-circular arch. This arch hints at the vaulted ceiling inside. Clerestory windows on both sides light the interior.
In 1951, Seventh-day Adventists bought the church. They renovated it at a cost of $90,000. The church formally reopened on November 3. The renovated church included a special nursery. It was called the Mother’s Room. It had a glass panel and a public announcement system. Mothers could see and hear the services. Their children’s noises would not disturb others.
A major renovation took place from 1988 to 1989. It cost $400,000. The Balestier Road Seventh-day Adventist Church celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2011. Mark Chan is the senior pastor.
The Balestier Road Seventh-day Adventist Church stands as a conserved building. It is located at 120 Balestier Road. You can attend worship services every Saturday at 11:00 am. Sabbath School is also on Saturdays. Adult Sabbath School starts at 9:30 am. Children’s Sabbath School begins at 10:00 am. Prayer meetings are held every Wednesday at 8:00 pm. The Balestier Road Seventh-day Adventist Church is more than just a building. It is a place of community. It is a place of worship. It is a landmark with a unique history.