Adventist Mission and Thomson Chinese Church Bring Joy and Belonging to Singapore’s Seniors

In the busy heart of Singapore, amidst 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. This idea becomes real at the three Adventist Active Centres for the Adventist Mission in Singapore. Here, the 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 Among Seniors
Singapore is home to a rapidly ageing 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% 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 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.

Mdm Chan’s Journey: A Story of Resilience and Faith
Mdm Chan Nean Foon is among the many seniors who found a home at the Adventist Active Centre (AAC). She strongly desired to be baptised, a step that symbolised her faith and commitment to her spiritual journey. However, just two days after sharing her wish, Mdm Chan suffered a brain haemorrhage and stroke. Since then, she has been under medical care, and her condition improved. Regular visits from Pastor Kevin Tain and Alan Teo have provided her with ongoing spiritual support, and her unwavering faith remains evident. Despite the challenges, Mdm 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.

Amy Leong’s 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 actively volunteers at the centre’s activities, often bringing her family members, including her son and granddaughter, to worship services. Amy’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.

Jennifer Lim’s Path to Renewal
Jennifer Lim’s journey with the Adventist Mission 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. Jennifer 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 with Ang Hui Eng’s Baptism
In June, Ang Hui Eng took a significant step in her faith journey by getting baptised. 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: The New Care Group at Kallang Trivista
In addition to existing initiatives, the Kallang Trivista AAC launched a new care group to support Singapore’s seniors further. The first meetup on 26 September saw an impressive turnout of 45 seniors. With increasing sign-ups, the centre anticipates hosting over 100 participants at the subsequent care group sessions scheduled monthly. This group provides a safe, nurturing space for companionship, support, and spiritual growth. By expanding its reach, the Adventist Mission reinforces its 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 the 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 organising 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:

• Parents Day Worship Service (12 May 2024): This event helped seniors feel recognised and appreciated, strengthening their connection to their families and the church community.
• 316 Musical Concert (27 July 2024): Seniors like 陈女士 (Ms Chen) eagerly attended, enjoying the chance to learn new things and regularly socialise, which promoted emotional and mental well-being.
• Mid-Autumn Steamboat (14 September 2024): A cultural celebration that fostered a strong sense of belonging, allowing seniors to interact with the community and reinforcing their connection to the church.
• Gospel Camp (17-18 November 2024): This camp will continue the Adventist Mission’s focus on spiritual growth and fellowship.
• Christmas Event (21 December 2024): Planned as a joyful celebration to close the year, this event invites the seniors and their families to experience the hope and love central to the Christmas message

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

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Mission
The Adventist Mission remains committed to fostering meaningful connections and nurturing discipleship among Singapore’s seniors. While attendance has fluctuated recently due to natural ageing, health challenges, and increasing caregiving responsibilities, the focus remains on the quality of relationships where everyone feels valued and loved. As seniors navigate the complexities of ageing, the Adventist Mission, Adventist Active Centres, and the churches in Singapore continue to provide spaces for support, companionship, and spiritual growth. Regardless of external circumstances, our spiritual community's commitment to each other is a testament to the strength and resilience of the bonds formed.

Conclusion
These personal stories reflect the heart of the Adventist Mission: a commitment to love, connection, and community. As Singapore’s population ages, the mission’s work grows more vital. Through compassion, faith, and meaningful engagement, the Adventist Mission, Adventist Active Centres, and Thomson Chinese Church are creating a lasting legacy—one relationship at a time.