“It is the 200th year of Catholicism in
Singapore, and so for the Church this is a
very momentous occasion.”
In 1821, St. Laurent Imbert was the first Catholic priest to arrive in British Singapore to minister to the country's growing population. 200 years later, the Archdiocese of Singapore is celebrating this special anniversary with a year-long celebration to deepen the faith of the 300,000 Catholics throughout the country, titled Catholic200SG.
FR. VALERIAN CHEONG
Co-Chair, Catholic200SG
We want to celebrate with gratitude and with thanksgiving how far we have come as a Church today.
Events ranging from a musical talent show to faith talks held throughout the year will bring Catholics together, both in-person and virtually, to build community and strengthen their faith.
Among the activities organized by the Archdiocese is a collective discernment exercise, which will engage Singapore's Catholics, who comprise about 5.7% of the population, in determining the future of their church.
FR. VALERIAN CHEONG
Co-Chair, Catholic200SG
It is the first ever archdiocese-wide exercise of its kind, where we reflect with scriptures and then inspired by the promptings of the Holy Spirit we will contribute ideas to the future pastoral plan for our local Church.
The Catholic Church in Singapore is celebrating its anniversary in a year marked by the Covid-19 pandemic. Yet it is also a chance to demonstrate the Church's flexibility.
FR. VALERIAN CHEONG
Co-Chair, Catholic200SG
I would say that Catholic200SG has been a pivotal moment to show that the Church is very ready to adapt, the Church is malleable, the Church goes with the times, so that we can present the message of Christ, the message of the Gospel in new yet refreshing ways.
After a turbulent year that left so many feeling isolated, Catholic200SG is an opportunity
for Catholics to connect with others and grow in faith. It’s a celebration of the Church’s history in
Singapore, as well as a sign of its vibrant
future.
Justin McLellan
