Imagine, at 85, not slowing down but pouring out a lifetime of love. Liew Yuen Loong is a testament to this. At St Luke’s ElderCare Centre, he is more than a volunteer – he is a friend, a melody, a living story of God’s grace. For years, he has made the 45-minute journey by MRT, rain or shine, to share joy and companionship with residents who are often his peers or even younger than him. Wesley TIDINGS spoke with Mr Liew to hear his heart and witness the enduring power of a life dedicated to service.
It’s a privilege to speak with you, Mr Liew. Could you share a bit more about yourself with our readers?
God has blessed me with three sons and seven grandchildren. Fifteen years ago, my wife went to be with the Lord. Since then, I’ve lived alone, with some assistance from a part-time helper, but I’m never truly alone. Before retirement, I was a civil engineer working at SMRT. Now, my heart finds joy in the simple things – playing the ukulele and harmonica, and most importantly, sharing God’s love.
Please share with us about your volunteer work.
My journey at St Luke’s ElderCare began in 2007, when I was 65 years old. Retirement opened a door to serve. The elderly there, many with dementia, often have no one. Our group, the Glowing Years Ministry (GYM), visits monthly. We sing, play games, create art and share stories. I love playing Christian hymns on my harmonica – it’s a way to touch their souls with the music of faith. Sometimes, we sing old Chinese songs like The Moon Represents My Heart and watch their faces light up with memories. Sharing pictures of old Singapore also brings them so much joy. We try to take them out for meals and visit places like Gardens by the Bay and Changi Airport. Though my steps are slower now, the joy of seeing their smiles keeps me going.
What inspired you to serve in this area?
Years ago, I served inchristian Outreach & Social Concerns (COSC) and the experience planted a seed in my heart. After retirement, I joined friends like Shirley Koo at St Luke’s. Initially, I thought it was a way to fill my time, but it quickly became a calling. I enjoy the fellowship with the residents and my fellow volunteers. As Christians, we are called to extend a loving hand to the least among us. To bring a moment of joy to someone who feels lonely – that’s a blessing beyond measure. I look forward to making my trip to Hougang, where St Luke’s is, for my monthly visits, knowing the residents also look forward to us being there.
You mentioned you would make your own way there?
Yes, by God’s grace, I am still fit. I live near the Clementi MRT station, making the 45-minute journey easy. Though I have to watch my sugar due to diabetes and cannot walk so steadily now, I can still get around. God gives me the strength to serve.
Are there any specific Bible verses or Christian teachings that guide you in your serving?
Philippians 1:21 – “For to me, to live is Christ and to die is gain.” This verse reminds me that my life is for Christ, and every moment is an opportunity to serve Him.
What brings you the most joy and fulfilment in your serving?
The friendships. The bonds I’ve formed with the residents and my fellow volunteers are precious. We’ve shared years of laughter, tears and fellowship. It’s heartbreaking when a resident passes, but we welcome new ones and the cycle of love continues. It’s the same with our volunteer group – some have moved on, but God always provides. That’s life. I am the oldest among my fellow volunteers and I am blessed to still be able to serve.
Are you involved in other ministries in church?
I was an usher for many years. I also participate in Disciple classes and small groups, and I spend time with God daily. Recently, I challenged myself by attending Disciple 3 in Mandarin. Besides St Luke’s, I also volunteer at Jalan Berseh in the Zhen Xin Hua (真❤️话) programme once a month from 10am to 4pm. I am a Hakka but I can speak Cantonese, Hokkien and Teochew. God has given me the gift of languages and I want to use it to share His love.
Aren’t you already very busy with so many activities?
Why not? God has given me the strength and the time. If I can share the gospel in multiple languages, then I will. It’s about using the gifts God gave me to serve Him and others.
What practical advice would you give to someone who wants to make a difference in their community but doesn’t know where to start?
Don’t overthink it. Just take that first step. Start with simple acts of kindness, like asking an elderly person how they are doing. Step out of your comfort zone and invest your time in loving people. Once you experience the joy of fellowship, it becomes a part of you.
If you could, what would you tell your younger self?
As an engineer, for many years, I often worked long hours – sometimes even 24 hours. If I could go back, I would tell my younger self not to wait until retirement to serve actively. I should have carved out more time for Him sooner. God’s love is a gift that should be shared throughout our lives, not just in our later years.
Photos courtesy of Liew Yuen Loong
Feeling inspired by Yuen Loong’s heart for serving seniors? Come be part of the Wesley Glowing Years Ministry (Wesley GYM) at Wesley Methodist Church and make a meaningful difference in someone’s life.
Read also: Let Everything that has Breath Praise the Lord!
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
