Equipping the saints, engaging the world

The Trinity Theological College (TTC) story was birthed in the crucible of suffering during World War II when Singapore was occupied by the Japanese. While interned as prisoners of war in Changi Prison, some Anglican, Methodist and Presbyterian missionaries and pastors had the idea of setting up a union college to train locals for church ministry and leadership. This God-given vision became reality when TTC was established in 1948. The Lutherans came on board in 1963.

After 70 years of ministry, TTC continues to faithfully serve the Church in Singapore and beyond as a union college. It conducts classes in both English and Chinese, and is now the college of choice for Methodists, as well as other churches and denominations. As future pastors, parish workers and church leaders train together, they spur one another to answer God’s call to Christian service and greater inter-denominational understanding. Solidarity is forged among these Christians, regardless of their backgrounds.

Since the idea of a union college was birthed in Changi Prison, it is especially meaningful for TTC to have played a key role in training ex-offenders who are now alumni, such as Pastor Jacob Lim (Class of 2017).

To nurture biblically and theologically trained adults, TTC offers academic programmes and night courses for Christians in the marketplace. Regular spiritual retreats, led by well-trained spiritual directors, are also organised for the edification of lay Christian leaders.

Serving the Church continues to be the lifeblood of TTC. Together with the National Council of Churches of Singapore and the Bible Society of Singapore, TTC formed the Ethos Institute for Public Christianity—a think tank that makes theological and ministry resources available to pastors and lay people. Through this partnership, it is hoped that Christians will be encouraged to think biblically and theologically about issues of concern in our society.

Last year, a memorandum of understanding was signed with Nanyang Technological University’s S. Rajaratnam School of International Studies to conduct modules leading to a Master’s degree. Thanks be to God for this opportunity to extend the service of the College to non-seminarians and play a part in fostering religious harmony in Singapore.

TTC is deeply grateful that it has been able to fulfil its mission over the past seven decades because of the generous support of many well-wishers—initially missionary agencies based in the West, and now individual donors as well as churches in Singapore.

Do pray that, as we advance into the next decade of ministry and beyond, we will continue to shine the light of Christ and make a difference in the Church and society.

We hope that as we offer our best—a highly-trained faculty, a robust and rigorous curriculum, coupled with deep concerns for spiritual formation and Christian mission—the flame in each student will be ignited to burn bright wherever God leads them.

Together, we shall then truly be LUX MUNDI, light of the world.

Christine Ting is Trinity Theological College’s Communications Officer.

“I dropped out of secondary school and loitered around with my friends, some of whom were in triads. Soon I joined their gang activities, and even peddled drugs. Before I knew it, I was behind bars. In the darkest period of my life, I discovered the love of a God of second chances who turned my prodigal life around. Upon my release, I was placed in an internship programme that prepared me for employment in Pentecost Methodist Church, which had by then become my second home. The leaders mentored me and even supported my studies at TTC, which I have now completed. By the grace of God, I am preparing for ordination in the Methodist Church in Singapore.”
—Jacob Lim, pastor-in-training, Class of 2017

“TTC is a great place to learn and make good friends. I came to TTC with no clue what to expect or what was really expected of me, only that I was going to be equipped for the pastoral ministry. I thank God for the lecturers and fellow students who were willing to come alongside to teach, coach and mentor me, and be a buddy. It helped to shape my spirituality.”
—Rev James Nagulan, ETAC President, Class of 1997

“In the mission field, as you plant and run churches, your theology informs everything you do. Theological education has helped me to focus on fulfilling the mission of God (missio dei).”
—Seth Tan, missionary-in-training, MDiv Year 3

“The courses at TTC have enabled me, as a young believer, to have a deeper understanding and strengthen my faith through a systematic and structured course. I am able to apply what I have learnt in my church, where I can share the knowledge with the youth and my Bible class.
—Sherrin Chua, lay person in the civil service, MTS Year 2

For the latest in TTC’s courses and other offerings, contact the college at: