Our church history
Maranatha Church has come a long way since the 1900’s when they first worshipped at 5 Penang Road before moving to 730 Dunman Road from Balestier Church. In the meantime, R. A. Pohan looked after the interest of the Malay-speaking congregation while inspiring the members to have their own place of worship. It was not long before they found a piece of government land in the Katong area with a 99 years lease.
Members donated towards the church building fund and a special mention must be made of the late Mr. Chew Ten Chee, who contributed the most. He also solicited donations from his business associates for this particular fund. On August 14, 1954, a modest house worship located in a fine residential area at 730 Dunman Road was formally opened by the Union President, J. M. Nerness. This was the beginning of “Maranatha,” a name chosen by the early pioneers of the church, which means “The Lord is Coming.” The majority of the church consisted mainly of Peranakans and Indonesians. The former building, was designed by Ng Keng Siang and our first pastor was Pastor R. A. Pohan. Maranatha was a booming church with vibrant activities such as Vacation Bible Schools, Youth Camps, Outdoor Sabbath Schools, Evangelistic Youth Programs and many other wonderful activities.
After 50 years, wear and tear had taken its toll on the old building structure and the ground it stoon on was eroding. Thus plans and drawings of a new church building was put up for a total make over. After a groundbreaking ceremony officiated by MP Mr Chan Soo Sen on November 18, 2001, the present building was completed in December 2002. Worship was resumed in a brand new building with a garden landscape fitted with the latest audio and video technologies with Pastor Berson at the helm.
