What does ‘Everyday Christianity’ look like in action? For former missionary Hong Pik Chuen, it’s about serving the elderly with ‘small things, great love.’ For many years, Pik Chuen has been a familiar face for the elderly and vulnerable, embodying the very essence of Everyday Christianity: Faith@Community. Her story, rooted in a simple Chinese proverb and fuelled by unwavering faith, reminds us that even the smallest acts of kindness, done with great love, can reflect the boundless love of God. Join us as we delve into Pik Chuen’s journey, a testament to the transformative power of service and the impact one life can have on a community.
Pik Chuen, kindly share with us about where you serve. What inspired you to get involved in this area?
I started serving in the early 90s with the Wesley Befrienders of Older Persons (WBOP) outreach ministry under Mrs CK Ee’s leadership. Back then, we used to visit many elderly persons in the Bukit Ho Swee, Bukit Merah and Jalan Kukoh areas. These are some of the poorest housing estates in Singapore. I remember vividly the small, cramped flats, the loneliness in the elderly’s eyes and the daily struggles they faced. The poor and vulnerable opened my eyes and heart. I thought and prayed about it, asking God to show me how I could make a difference, and decided to join this ministry. The stark contrast between my comfortable life and their hardships was a powerful call to action.
How much time do you spend in your serving with WBOP?
It really depends on the needs of the individuals we visit. Sometimes, it could be just a 30-minute quick visit, a brief check-in and a word of encouragement. At other times, it would be two to three hours if we take them out for a meal, help them with grocery shopping at the supermarket or accompany them to medical appointments. We also spend time simply listening, which can be the most valuable gift we offer.
Do you have a role model or inspiration who has influenced your commitment to service? Are there any specific Bible verses or Christian teachings that guide you in your efforts?
I deeply admire the teachings of St Louis de Montfort. I am influenced by his book Taking Risks for God Alone. When I first read the book, I was struck by how St Louis de Montfort put it: “unless you take risks for God, you will never do anything worthwhile for Him”. It challenged me to step out of my comfort zone and trust God’s leading.
As for Bible verses, there are two that guide me in my motivation and love for serving the lonely or elderly. The first is Psalm 32:8: “I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you with my loving eye on you.” This reminds me that God is always guiding me. The second one is from Isaiah 46:4: “Even to your old age and grey hairs I am he, I am he who will sustain you. I have made you and I will carry you; I will sustain you and I will rescue you.” This verse provides comfort and assurance, especially when serving those who often feel forgotten.
How has your involvement in your serving impacted your own faith journey?
It has helped deepen my faith in God. It disciples me continually in obedience, surrendering my will to let God lead me in my life. It helps me to work on decreasing my personal agenda, focusing instead on being a vessel for His love. It has taught me patience, compassion and the importance of seeing Christ in every person I encounter. My faith has become more practical, less theoretical.
What brings you the most joy and fulfilment in your serving at WBOP?
I feel thankful and joyful when I can build up a relationship with the elderly I befriend and visit and earn their trust. Seeing a smile on their face, hearing their stories and knowing that I’ve made a small difference in their day is incredibly rewarding. It is all about building another person up, it is all about reflecting the love of our Lord to them. To see a spark of hope rekindled in their eyes is a priceless gift.
In what ways do you see God working through your efforts?
I am just His vessel. God is working all the time. Once, an elderly living at Kelantan Lane whom I visit regularly asked me to help her to buy an item to pray to a deity. I told her my God is Jesus Christ and He does not require us to bring anything except an open heart when we pray to Him. I boldly declared to her Jesus is true God (耶稣是真神). I was cautious after that fearing her protest, but I realised the lady just kept quiet.
Another time, after I brought another elderly friend, who is normally reticent and quiet, for a haircut, I was pleasantly surprised she told me to visit her more often (“常常来”). Through all these small gestures, I can sense the Holy Spirit is working in these elderly’s hearts and God is in control of all the visits I made. These moments remind me that it’s not about my abilities, but about God’s presence.
How do you maintain your own spiritual well-being while engaging in emotionally or physically demanding serving?
There must be a balance in our lives even as we serve actively, ministering to others. I like to take brisk walks in the morning twice or thrice weekly. This helps me clear my mind and stay physically fit. I also enjoy having solitude time with the Lord, sitting at the park, reading and meditating upon His Word for me. I enjoy and appreciate the simple pleasures in life like having a chit-chat with a good friend over a cup of local coffee. These are light moments and simple joys which help me de-stress and relax. I also make sure to regularly attend church services to stay connected with my community.
Do you feel that your serving strengthens your connection to the church, or do you see them as separate aspects of your life?
Yes, through my serving in WBOP, I get to meet more Wesleyans who serve alongside me. Recently, I got to know a friend, Audrey Koh, when we went out together for visits. As we serve together, we discuss how to improve our serving, and share about ourselves and life. We pray together, support each other and celebrate small victories. This shared experience has strengthened my connection to the church. It has become a vital part of my spiritual growth and fellowship.
Looking ahead, what are your hopes and dreams for the future of your serving and its impact on the community?
I hope the Lord will grant me a healthy body, heart and mind so that I can continue to be His hands and feet. I want my life to reflect God’s love and grace. I also hope to see more young people get involved in serving the elderly and vulnerable. I believe that intergenerational connections are vital for building a compassionate community.
Lastly, Pik Chuen, if you could share one message with our readers about the importance of engaging with the wider society, what would it be?
I am Chinese educated, and I like this Chinese saying: 怀大愛心做小事情. It means “Do Small Things with Great Love”. This quote reminds me to try my best in serving, no matter how small the gesture might seem, and not just give it my best but also to do it with love. Every act of kindness, no matter how small, can make a significant impact. Remember, it’s not about the magnitude of the action, but the magnitude of the love behind it.
Photos courtesy of Hong Pik Chuen and CJ Goh
This year, our church theme will focus on Discipleship in Society. Wesley TIDINGS is delighted to introduce “Faith@Community”, a new monthly series for 2025 that explores the concept of “Everyday Christianity”. Everyday Christianity is about recognising that faith is not confined to the walls of our church. It is about living out our Christian values in every aspect of our daily lives – in our homes, workplaces, schools, neighbourhoods and communities.
Throughout the year, “Faith@Community” will share stories of inspiring individuals who are actively living out their faith through compassionate service, advocating for the marginalised and extending a helping hand to those in need. We hope their stories will challenge and inspire us to deepen our own discipleship and find ways to express our faith in practical, everyday actions.
Whether it is through acts of kindness, advocacy for justice or simply shining the light of Christ in your daily interactions, your story matters. Do you know someone quietly making a difference in their community? We want to hear their stories! If you have someone in mind (maybe even yourself!), please encourage them to reach out to us at tidings@wesleymc.org.
Wesley TIDINGS Team
For more information on the church theme this year, please go to:
https://wesleymc.org/dir2025
Read also: Woven with Grace: Jean Ho Weaves with Love in the Empowering Mums Project by YWCA
