Gereja

In 1819. That’s when modern Singapore was founded. Half a year later Christianity arrived. A missionary named William Milne started his work. The first Catholic priest arrived in December 1821. He investigated the possibility of opening a mission station. He celebrated the first mass. Colonial authorities remained neutral on religious matters. Missionaries established churches and Christian services. They also founded welfare organizations and many mission schools. These schools are now highly regarded for their quality education. Local church leaders gradually took over the services. Theological schools were established. These schools produced future leaders. More churches and Christian organizations were founded. The proportion of Christians in Singapore increased. The percentage of Christians among Singaporeans grew from 12.7% in 1990 to 14.6% in 2000. The 2010 census showed a further increase to 17.5%. The Church of the Good Shepherd became a cathedral in 1888. This was after the Diocese of Malacca was restored. The Catholic community suffered severe persecution during the Japanese occupation from 1942 to 1945. After the war the Catholic community was restored. The Church resumed its activities in education healthcare and social fields. In 1953 the Diocese of Malacca including Singapore became an archdiocese. In 1972 Singapore became a separate archdiocese directly subject to the Holy See. The Catholic Church in Singapore is one of the most dynamic and vital in Southeast Asia. Despite changing times the Church remains active in education and social care. Half of the Catholic population regularly attends Sunday Mass. Churches remain full thanks to migrants who form an important part of the local Church. Christianity and in particular Catholicism is the only growing religion in the city-state. This growth shows the enduring strength and influence of the church in Singapore.