Dear Members and Friends of NCCS,
SG60 is also a time for us to reflect on our multicultural Singapore for God has given the Church a unique blessing: in the same city, we have congregations that worship primarily in English, and others in Chinese, Tamil and many more.
On the surface, this may seem like a simple language difference, but spiritually, it is a beautiful picture of diversity within unity. Yet, if we remain confined to our own language circles without interaction or collaboration, we risk missing the blessing of the Body of Christ living as one. Our different language churches may be distinct yet they are complementary. Each community carries a divine calling and unique strengths that the other needs: “For the body does not consist of one member but of many.” (1 Corinthians 12:14).
As a Chinese-speaking pastor, I believe that in God’s eyes, English and Chinese-speaking churches in Singapore are not two parallel worlds, but members of one Body, designed to complete each other. For instance, when English-speaking churches have fruitful experiences in marketplace ministry, youth work, or digital outreach, sharing these with Chinese-speaking congregations multiplies impact. Conversely, the cultural insights and family ministry strengths of Chinese churches can help English- speaking congregations serve locally with greater warmth and relevance.
Thus when society sees the Church transcending language, culture, and generational divides, we embody Jesus’ prayer in John 17: “…that they may be one…so that the world may believe that you sent me.”
Truly, the diversity of churches in Singapore is God’s gift. When we lay aside barriers, appreciate one another, and share our resources, we will fulfill the Great Commission more effectively and display the glory of Christ in our city.
“May our Lord grant us humility and love, that all our churches may be one in Christ, so that the world will see God’s glory and give praise.” Amen.
Yours in Christ,
Rt Rev Dr Caleb Soo | Vice-President
National Council of Churches of Singapore