“What began as a small Sunday school class in a rented bungalow is now the Pasir Panjang Church of Christ.” That’s how its story often begins. Here, at 347 Pasir Panjang Road, stands a testament to faith and community. Let’s step back in time.
In 1935, a school principal started a humble Sunday school class. It met in his rented bungalow at 356 Pasir Panjang Road. This was the genesis of Pasir Panjang Church of Christ. The church sought refuge in different locations during the Japanese occupation. Pastor Phoa Hock Seng purchased the bungalow in the late 1950s. Donations from friends and relatives made this possible. He named it Pasir Panjang Christ Church. He believed it belonged to Christ, not him.
Pasir Panjang Church of Christ initially held English and Hokkien worship services. They also had Hokkien Bible studies and prayer meetings. A ministry at Perak House started the Youth Fellowship. They reached out to people in surrounding kampongs. The gospel’s seed was sown far and wide.
In 1973, Pasir Panjang Church of Christ acquired this property at 302 Pasir Panjang Road. They erected a new church building here. Pastor Phoa laid the foundation stone that year. The building was completed in 1974. A Multi-purpose Hall Block was added in 1991. A renovated annex now houses the Fellowship Centre since 1997.
After 43 years of faithful service, Pastor Phoa Hock Seng passed away in 1978. Pastor James Phoa then assumed pastoral leadership. In 1981, Pasir Panjang Church of Christ stood firm on biblical separation. They separated from the charismatic, neo-evangelical and ecumenical movements.
In 1984, Pastor Dennis van Etten became Youth Minister. Pastor KT Yeow took over pastoral duties from Pastor James Phoa. More pastors were ordained in the following years. These included Pastor Elbert Lim and Pastor Ho Long Soon. They also included Pastor Peter Goh, Pastor Charles Chow, and others.
In 2000, Pastor Peter planted Grace Bible Church in Punggol. In 2001, a ministry for senior citizens began at Ju Eng Nursing Home. Pasir Panjang Church of Christ sent mission teams to Asia, following Pastor Phoa’s example. In 2002, Pastor Charles became the church’s first missionary to the Philippines. Pastor Yeow answered the call for mission work in 2004.
In 2009, Pasir Panjang Church of Christ mourned the loss of Pastor Elbert Lim. He had been the senior pastor since 2004.
Today, Pasir Panjang Church of Christ continues to evolve. They evangelize, edify, and exalt. They write their future with faith. They trust that God makes all things beautiful in His time.
Pasir Panjang Church of Christ offers both English and Mandarin worship services. These services reflect its diverse community. The church also streams their services online.
Remember the humble beginnings of Pasir Panjang Church of Christ. It began with a small class and grew into a beacon of faith. Its history reflects dedication and devotion. May its future be as bright as its past.