Through encounters on public transport, God showed me how individuals with special needs were often overlooked and misunderstood, despite being just as precious in His sight.
Though I had never considered starting a ministry, I felt increasingly convicted that they deserve the same opportunities as anyone else: to know God personally, and to have a place where they belong and can worship.
With little knowledge of how to care for this people group, we partnered with MINDS and other churches, observing and gaining insight from their work. Along the way, God brought brothers and sisters who shared the same heart and vision, which encouraged and strengthened us.
Eventually, by faith, our inaugural Hope SHINE fellowship was launched in December 2015.
We were amazed to see about 15 people join us!
Along the way, we learnt the importance of caring not just for our friends with special needs, but also for their caregivers. We saw their need for support, encouragement, and a safe space to share their journeys. This led us to intentionally start a Life Group for caregivers, where they could connect, support one another, and find strength in community.
In 2018, God expanded the ministry further when a team of volunteers from Axis SHINE stepped out to pioneer North East SHINE. We now have a total of 80 caregivers and their children attending our SHINE services!
As in 1 Corinthians 12:21–25, I truly believe that every part of the body of Christ is indispensable.
When we were told Samuel would be born with a cleft lip and palate, we were downcast and discouraged.
After his birth, Samuel faced further challenges: delays in speech, mental and physical development, and epilepsy. Multiple surgeries were needed in both Malaysia and Australia. Along the years, we also had to bring Samuel for various physical and speech therapies.
Through the unexpected journey of raising Samuel, we began to draw closer to God. He reassured us through Psalm 23 that He will go through the challenges with us, giving us supernatural strength and peace. Each time we placed our trust in Him, our faith was strengthened.
By God’s leading, we attended church in Hope Kuching, and later decided to move to Singapore, settling down in Hope Singapore. Here, we witnessed God’s provision through the support of HopeKids, Hope SHINE, and MINDS.
Today, Samuel is 24 years old and a joyful part of the SHINE family. Through SHINE, Samuel has found a place to worship and experience service freely without the concern of disturbing others. It has also given us time to enjoy moments of couple time together.
Though he cannot speak a word, God has used his life to love the wider SHINE community. God has been faithful, and we are grateful for our brothers and sisters who serve faithfully by loving and caring for kids with special needs.
