What’s in a Name?

Our name, Marine Parade Christian Centre, or MPCC for short, carries with it an important history.

When HDB estates began to develop across Singapore, Canon James Wong initiated a church-planting vision to bring churches closer to the heartlands, where many future generations of Singaporeans would live. “Extension Centres” were established in various HDB estates as outreach arms of existing parishes, such as the Church of the Good Shepherd and the Chapel of the Resurrection. In their early years, many of these centres did not have clergy or full-time pastors leading the work.

One such extension centre began in a flat at Marine Terrace. It naturally took the name Marine Parade Christian Centre. It was almost called the Marine Parade Extension Centre, but since “Extension Centre” was a generic term, the decision was made to replace “Extension” with “Christian.”

Over the years, however, we have discovered that the word “Centre” can sometimes create confusion. To those unfamiliar with us, it may suggest that we are a Christian counselling centre, welfare organisation or community agency. We have consistently received feedback from outsiders who were unsure whether we were a church that held worship services and welcomed visitors.

The PCC recently considered this matter. As we celebrate our 50th Anniversary, this may be an appropriate time to consider a change. It may seem like a small step, but it could signal our desire to see MPCC renewed and better positioned to serve future generations.

Three possible names have been suggested, each retaining the familiar acronym MPCC:

• Marine Parade Christian Church

• Marine Parade Community Church

• Marine Parade Christ Church

The PCC believes that this matter should now be brought before the wider church for prayerful consideration. Should there be sufficient support for a change, it may be necessary to hold a special EOGM for members to vote on the proposal.

Changing a name does not change who we are. Our identity remains rooted in Christ, the gospel and the community God has called us to serve. Yet a clearer name may help others understand more readily that we are a church—and that they are welcome among us.

Which name best preserves our history while making our identity and mission clear to future generations?

What do you think?