Forty years. Four decades. In the life of a church, that’s a significant chapter. But within the vibrant story of our Wesley community, a quieter yet profoundly impactful narrative has been unfolding for just as long: the journey of one of our very first eight Small Groups.
Called simply the Toa Payoh Small Group, they are a band of fellowship and faith sustained by the grace of God to this day.
As our church celebrates its 140th anniversary, we also joyfully mark the 40th year of our Small Group Ministry – a milestone intrinsically linked to the enduring legacy of our pioneering band of believers.
The Humble Beginnings
What sparked this initial gathering in the early days? Who were the visionaries, the pioneers of Wesley Small Group Ministry who felt a stirring to connect on a deeper level?
Reflecting on the group’s inception in February 1985, 83-year-old Peter Chow and 81-year-old Doris, the leaders and founding members of the Toa Payoh Small Group, recall they “just had a simple desire to study the Word together in a more personal way. We also responded to Rev Isaac Lim’s vision of starting a Small Group Ministry to disciple members.”
Peter and Doris Chow, along with six Small Group members, began meeting in her home in Toa Payoh – a simple space filled with an earnest desire to learn and grow together.
“Our meetings revolved around shared meals, heartfelt prayers and discussions on parables and certain Biblical topics,” Doris remembers those early gatherings fondly. “We started in my humble living room. It was cosy, sometimes a bit crowded, but always filled with a sense of anticipation and genuine care for one another.”
Faith Forged in Fellowship
Through the years, the Toa Payoh Small Group became a close-knit circle of faith. The atmosphere was friendly, warm and enthusiastic. The leaders, Peter and Doris, would share a simple lesson and encourage members to participate in discussions. Members actively shared significant life milestones, their understanding of scripture, prayers within the group or experiences that etched themselves onto their hearts and impacted their faith.
Two members also took turns leading the group and praying. They bonded over shared meals and outings.
“In fact, we went on several mission trips together. Some of us visited the elderly and distributed meals.”
For Doris, some moments stand out: “One member fell under the power of the Holy Spirit when he was prayed over by a visiting evangelist. He was transformed to walk closer to the Lord after that.”
The Small Group was undergirded by prayer. “Whenever our members were unable to pray openly during vesper, they would be encouraged to pray aloud through the exercise of written prayer. In this way, they learnt how to pray confidently.”
This fellowship became a lifeline during personal storms. When challenges arose – the loss of a loved one, a career setback, a moment of doubt – the group rallied with prayers, offering unwavering support, practical help and the comforting embrace of Christian love.
Shared Learning in a Spiritual Family
The journey was also marked by shared learning. Memorable studies and discussions shaped their understanding of God’s Word and its application to their lives. Doris reflects: “We went through many scripture passages and books of the Bible together, and it was eye-opening. The different perspectives shared within the group really enriched my understanding. We really enjoyed studying the parables.”
To the Toa Payoh Small Group, these weren’t just intellectual exercises; they were opportunities for spiritual growth, for iron to sharpen iron as they encouraged one another in their faith and held each other accountable. Through these shared experiences, a profound sense of community and belonging blossomed. This wasn’t just a fortnightly meeting; it was a family, a safe space where vulnerability was met with grace and acceptance. As Doris puts it, “Over the years, they became my spiritual family.”
Impact Beyond the Four Walls in Toa Payoh
The impact of this Small Group extended beyond its immediate members.
Like any close-knit group, disagreements or conflicts may have surfaced, but the longevity of this fellowship speaks volumes about their commitment to working through challenges with grace and understanding, guided by the principles of Christian reconciliation. “We also had a covenant to agree to disagree. This is important to keep communication authentic and open,” says Doris.
Leadership within the group evolved over the decades, with different individuals stepping up to serve, each bringing their unique gifts and perspectives. The group witnessed significant changes – members moving away, new faces joining, the focus of their studies shifting to meet the evolving needs of the group and the times. As this pioneer group expanded and flourished, three members left to form their own small groups.
God also graced the Toa Payoh Small Group with Juliette Arulrajah, who became a pastor, and Rev Michael Tan, who joined the group upon his retirement.
Peter believes their long-standing presence has had a ripple effect: “I hope that our commitment over these years has shown others the power and strength that comes from doing life together in Christ.”
“Small Group Ministry is more structured now and many more groups are formed. Groups are put into zones. More young people are leading in the ministry. These are all very positive and encouraging changes.”
Encouragement for All Small Groups
Reflecting on their remarkable journey, what profound lessons have been gleaned from being part of this pioneering group? For Doris, it’s the simple yet profound truth that “consistency and genuine care are key. Showing up, being present and truly listening to one another – that’s what has sustained us.”
Says Doris: “Today there are still seven to eight of us now still with the Small Group. Through our Small Group, God has shown us 40 years of His faithfulness. We hope this will be an encouragement to all Small Groups. All these are made possible only because of God’s blessing and guidance. We hope to inspire other Small Groups to remain faithful in spite of trials and differences. Persevere in prayer.”
“Small Group Ministry is important in encouraging ownership of the church and equipping members to be intentional in their discipleship.”
Rev Gladwin Lee, pastor for Small Group Ministry, adds: “This is why the mission of our Small Group Ministry, Growing Groups that Bear Lasting Fruit, is vital. Every Small Group is the lifeblood of our church – where deep, transformative relationships are forged and faith takes firm root, shaping everyday life in powerful ways. I am constantly inspired by Small Group members and leaders like the Toa Payoh Small Group who are persevering in their gatherings and spurring one another to live with compassion and courage for Christ.”
Looking Ahead
As Peter and Doris look ahead, they are confident that Small Groups will continue to be vital hubs within our church, fostering connection, growth and missional impact in an ever-changing world.
Forty years of shared joys, sorrows, growth and service is a well of memories and deep bonds. When asked about her fondest memories, Doris shares, “There are so many! But I really remember the anniversary celebrations we had all these years.”
As we celebrate the 40th anniversary of Small Group Ministry alongside the church’s 140th anniversary, the message from the Toa Payoh Small Group, through the voice of Doris, is one of enduring faith: “God has been so faithful to us over these forty years. Through every season, He has held us together.”
The confluence of these anniversaries speaks to the deep roots and ongoing vitality of our church, with Small Groups playing an integral role in nurturing its growth and strength.
The Toa Payoh Small Group is more than just a gathering. It is a living testament to the power of Christian fellowship and God’s grace and faithfulness to sustain the group from 1985 till today.
When asked to describe her experience in a few words, Doris says simply: “God is faithful. All glory to God.”
(Photos courtesy of Doris Chow and Wesley Tidings)
Read related article:
Karen Mok shares how joining the Toa Payoh Small Group during a difficult time transformed her faith. Through prayer, support and fellowship, she found strength, healing and purpose, witnessing God’s grace in her family’s journey from struggle to restoration. Read her testimony here.
Watch video l The Small Group Challenge: SG Leaders Take the Quiz!
