On Bukit Purmei, meaning ‘beautiful hill’, is a church befitting the name of the hill it rests on, our final feature, the Church of St Teresa.


This church was opened in 1929 to serve Hokkien-speaking Catholics. Parishioners believed that it was through the intercession of St. Therese, ‘the Little Flower of Jesus’, that the land for the church was acquired, and thus the church was named in her honour. 

From providing educational services since its opening, to sheltering women who needed protection from the Japanese soldiers during the Occupation, to helping the people made homeless from the Bukit Ho Swee Fire, the Church St. Teresa has a long history of serving the community in Singapore through its most challenging times.


Beyond its history, the Church of St. Teresa is also well-known for its architecture. It is the only church in Singapore built in a Romano-Byzantine style, incorporating domes, cupolas and arches.


A striking feature of its interior is a ciborium (canopy), supported by tall columns, making for a defining and picturesque backdrop.

The back of the altar is adorned with French-made stained glass panels depicting the key events of the life of Saint Therese, inspiring worshippers to live a saintly life.

With the care that went into building the church and its history of helping those in need, the inspiration of St. Therese and her words lives on.


“When I die, I will send down a shower of roses from the heavens, I will spend my heaven by doing good on earth.” 
-St. Therese of Lisieux


The Church of St. Teresa is an embodiment of all that the sacrament of Matrimony stands for, and a truly beautiful and fitting place for your marriage.

Recognising its place in Singapore’s history, its importance to the community and its architecture, the church was gazetted as a national monument in 2009 by the National Heritage Board


Get in touch with the Parish Office to book a date or email your enquiries to cst.secretariat@catholic.org.sg


Church of St Teresa

510 Kampong Bahru Road, Singapore 099446

 

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