In 1997 and 1998, HopeKids Sunday services were held at Kreta Ayer People's Theatre. Back then, space was limited. We would use whatever space we could find – backstage, make-up rooms, even spaces outside the theater, including staircases and alleyways.
These spaces were dirty, noisy, messy, unsafe and prone to floods. Make-up rooms were packed with Chinese Cantonese Play costumes. Rubbish trucks would drive past during praise and worship, bringing much stench and noise. Much time was spent cleaning, setting up, and tearing down just for services to run.
Services at Kreta Ayer theatre in 1997
But we persevered in obedience. As we did, the church grew, and newcomers served alongside us. Though we didn't have much, we all chipped in by bringing whatever we had from home – booster seats, high chairs, sleep mats, playpens, and snacks.
Whatever we had, we brought to share. Despite the poor conditions and mismatched furniture, the children arrived each week with the same eagerness, worshipping with joyful hearts; their love for God was stronger than any obstacle.
God built His church through simple people like us. It wasn't about how much we had; it was about how much we trusted that God would move with the little we gave.
To the children, may you grow strong in the Lord – to love Him deeply and trust Him fully. And to my fellow volunteers, may you be faithful gardeners, planting seeds that will one day grow into deep, unshakeable faith.
