Barker Road Methodist Church

In 1957, a small group of Anglo-Chinese School boys ignited a spark that would blaze into the Barker Road Methodist Church. This vibrant church, nestled along Dunearn Road at 48 Barker Road, shares its location with the Anglo-Chinese School (Barker Road) and Anglo-Chinese School (Primary). The Barker Road Methodist Church’s story is interwoven with the school’s history. In the 1950s, a revival of Christian faith swept through the school. The Barker Road Methodist Church, then known as Barker Road Chapel, played a vital role. This spiritual fervor continued into the 1970s with the ACS Clock Tower Charismatic revival. The Barker Road Methodist Church opened its sanctuary to the students, nurturing their faith. Some of those students later became pastors at the very church that had inspired them. The first church building, completed in 1963, was a testament to the growing congregation. It was dedicated by Bishop F. Lundy in 1965. As the church family expanded, a new sanctuary was built in 1991. Further renovations in 1999, coinciding with the redevelopment of the entire Barker Road campus, seamlessly integrated the church into the school’s landscape. The current sanctuary, completed in 2002, may not be architecturally striking, but its spacious interior provides a welcoming home for hundreds of worshippers. A simple stained-glass window, salvaged from the original building, adds a touch of history to the modern space. The Barker Road Methodist Church’s influence extends beyond its walls. It has been instrumental in establishing several other churches, including Covenant Community Methodist Church, Living Waters Methodist Church, and Holland Village Methodist Church. The church continues to shine its light on the community, serving not only its own members but also the wider Singaporean community. With a membership of over 3,000 in 2023, the Barker Road Methodist Church stands as a beacon of faith and service. Its story, from humble beginnings to a thriving community, is a testament to the power of faith and the enduring spirit of the Anglo-Chinese School boys who first brought it to life.