Adventist Mission in Singapore Unites to Support Senior Citizens

In the busy heart of Singapore, amid its tall buildings and fast pace, a quiet mission unfolds. This mission isn’t limited to church walls — it reaches into everyday life. To be a disciple means to be like Jesus, to love others, and to build meaningful connections.

It is an idea that becomes real at the three Adventist Active Centres for the Adventist Mission office in Singapore. In those places, the Seventh-day Adventist Church brings people together, creating a community where love is shared and new disciples are formed. It’s a reminder that discipleship happens everywhere, showing that every encounter is a chance to bring Jesus’s love to others.

A Growing Need for Connection

Singapore is home to a rapidly aging population, with one in four Singaporeans expected to be 65 and above by 2030. As more seniors face the risk of loneliness and isolation, the need for genuine connections becomes more urgent. Studies show that nearly 40 percent of seniors in Singapore report feeling lonely, a factor linked to higher risks of health issues like heart disease and depression.

Many seniors find themselves navigating an increasingly digital world that can feel alienating and unfamiliar. The Office of Adventist Mission in Singapore is responding to this challenge, offering spaces where seniors can find comfort, companionship, and a sense of belonging through partnership with the Adventist Active Centres and Thomson Chinese Church.

A Story of Resilience and Faith

Chan Nean Foon is among the many seniors who found a home at the Adventist Active Centre. She strongly desired to be baptized, a step that symbolized her faith and commitment to her spiritual journey. However, just two days after sharing her wish, Chan suffered a brain hemorrhage and stroke. Since then, she has been under medical care, and her condition has improved.

Regular visits from Adventist church members have provided her with ongoing spiritual support, and her unwavering faith remains evident. Despite the challenges, Chan continues to express her trust in God, lifting her voice in a strong “Amen” after each prayer, a powerful reminder of her resilient spirit and connection to her faith.

Enthusiasm and Influence

Amy Leong embodies our typical seniors at the Golden Clover AAC. A convert from Taoism to Christianity, Amy has not only embraced her new faith but also become a beacon of inspiration for others. She volunteers in the center’s activities, often bringing her family members, including her son and granddaughter, to worship services.

Leong’s willingness to volunteer and her eagerness to share her faith with her sister and friends highlight the ripple effect of one person’s commitment to living like Jesus.

A Path to Renewal

Jennifer Lim’s journey with the Adventist Mission project began after she answered an altar call during a gospel camp. Following the loss of her husband, Jennifer had stopped attending church. However, she found a rejuvenated purpose and community through the Adventist Mission care group at Golden Clover AAC.

Lim now engages in regular Bible studies, discovering a renewed connection to her faith and a supportive network that nurtures her spiritual growth. Her story is about finding hope and community after loss, illustrating the transformative power of belonging.

Celebrating New Beginnings

In June, Ang Hui Eng took a significant step in her faith journey by getting baptized. Surrounded by her daughters and granddaughter, the event was a joyful celebration of faith and family.

Hui Eng’s baptism represents a personal milestone and strengthens community bonds. Her family’s presence highlights the intergenerational impact of faith, showing how one person’s commitment can inspire and involve others.

Expanding Outreach

In addition to existing initiatives, the Kallang Trivista AAC launched a new care group to support Singapore’s seniors further. The first meetup on September 26 saw an impressive turnout of 45 seniors. With increasing sign-ups, the center anticipates hosting more than 100 participants at the subsequent care group sessions scheduled monthly.

The group provides a safe, nurturing space for companionship, support, and spiritual growth. By expanding its reach, the Adventist Mission project reinforces the commitment to fostering meaningful connections across diverse communities within Singapore, ensuring that every senior feels valued and connected.

The Power of Community Support

The work of Adventist Mission and Thomson Chinese Church is deeply rooted in the collective efforts of church members and volunteers at the Adventist Active Centres. These individuals are crucial in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for seniors. Whether through organizing activities, offering companionship, or providing spiritual guidance, their dedication embodies the mission of discipleship.

Several key events in 2024 have reinforced the church’s role in building meaningful relationships, including a Parents Day, Worship Day, a musical concert, and a gospel camp.

Testimonials from seniors and their families continue to affirm the impact of these activities.

Looking Ahead

Adventist Mission remains committed to fostering meaningful connections and nurturing discipleship among Singapore’s seniors. While attendance has fluctuated recently due to natural aging, health challenges, and increasing caregiving responsibilities, the focus remains on the quality of relationships in which everyone feels valued and loved.

As seniors navigate the complexities of aging, Adventist Mission’s Adventist Active Centres, and the churches in Singapore continue to provide spaces for support, companionship, and spiritual growth.

The original version of this story was posted on the Singapore Conference news site.