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{{multiple issues|copyedit=April 2010|peacock=April 2010|self-published=April 2010|weasel=April 2010}}
{{expert|date=April 2010}}
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{{Infobox church {{Infobox church
|image= | image =
|denomination= Independent | denomination = Independent
|founded_date= 1989 | founded_date = 1989
|seniorpastor= Rev. Dr. ] | seniorpastor = Rev. Dr. ]
|country= ] | country = ]
|website= | website =
|logo= CHC_logo.jpg | logo = CHC_logo.jpg
|logosize= 150 | logosize = 150
}} }}

'''City Harvest Church''' ({{zh|s=城市丰收教会}}) or '''CHC''' is the largest ] in ].<ref>{{Citation | periodical= MinistriesToday | title=West Meet East| issue=January,February | year=2004| pages=Pg:32–33}}</ref> It bases its values on ] and ] teachings, with doctrinal emphasis on the Great Commandment, the Great Commission and the Cultural Mandate. It has been described by the '']'' magazine as "one of the largest congregations in Asia."<ref> {{cite web|title= Why Isn't the American church growing?|work=Charisma Magazine|url=http://www.charismamag.com/display.php?id=10291|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}}</ref> It is the largest independent church in Singapore, with a membership of 32,731 and a monthly average of 28,134 attendees in its weekend services.<ref name="CHCOurChurch">{{cite web|title=CHC Factsheet|work=Kong Hee|url=http://www.konghee.com/www/chc-factsheet/|dateformat=mdy|accessdate=Mar 07 2010}}</ref> The church's highest record attendance was 57,691 during City Harvest's Christmas services in 2008. 47.3% of its members are below the age of 25 years.<ref>{{cite web|title=Average Weekly Salvation & Rededication Decisions|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/church/church_stats_congregation.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 06 2010}}</ref> Its income for the year ending on 31 Mar 2009 was $34.7m which mainly came from tithes and offerings.<ref>{{cite web|title=Straits Times report|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/Breaking%2BNews/Singapore/Story/BgSty_277387_1.html}}</ref> '''City Harvest Church''' ({{zh|s=城市丰收教会}}) or '''CHC''' is the largest ] in ].<ref>{{Citation | periodical= MinistriesToday | title=West Meet East| issue=January,February | year=2004| pages=Pg:32–33}}</ref> It bases its values on ] and ] teachings, with doctrinal emphasis on the Great Commandment, the Great Commission and the Cultural Mandate. It has been described by the '']'' magazine as "one of the largest congregations in Asia."<ref> {{cite web|title= Why Isn't the American church growing?|work=Charisma Magazine|url=http://www.charismamag.com/display.php?id=10291|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}}</ref> It is the largest independent church in Singapore, with a membership of 32,731 and a monthly average of 28,134 attendees in its weekend services.<ref name="CHCOurChurch">{{cite web|title=CHC Factsheet|work=Kong Hee|url=http://www.konghee.com/www/chc-factsheet/|dateformat=mdy|accessdate=Mar 07 2010}}</ref> The church's highest record attendance was 57,691 during City Harvest's Christmas services in 2008. 47.3% of its members are below the age of 25 years.<ref>{{cite web|title=Average Weekly Salvation & Rededication Decisions|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/church/church_stats_congregation.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 06 2010}}</ref> Its income for the year ending on 31 Mar 2009 was $34.7m which mainly came from tithes and offerings.<ref>{{cite web|title=Straits Times report|url=http://www.straitstimes.com/Breaking%2BNews/Singapore/Story/BgSty_277387_1.html}}</ref>


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==Mission Statement== ==Mission Statement==
The church has a mission "to build a church with a strong spiritual atmosphere of faith and purity, where every member is released into ministry, discipled in the ] to obey the ] and the Cultural Mandate."<ref name="sof">{{cite web|title=Statement of Faith|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/church/church_missionStt.php The church has a mission "to build a church with a strong spiritual atmosphere of faith and purity, where every member is released into ministry, discipled in the ] to obey the ] and the Cultural Mandate."<ref name="sof"> {{cite web|title=Statement of Faith|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/church/church_missionStt.php
|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}}</ref> |dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}} </ref>


This belief spawns from the two beams of the cross: the "vertical" beam of loving God wholeheartedly, and the "horizontal" beam of loving people fervently, both representing the Great Commandment and the Great Commission. This belief spawns from the two beams of the cross: the "vertical" beam of loving God wholeheartedly, and the "horizontal" beam of loving people fervently, both representing the Great Commandment and the Great Commission.
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On June 4, 1995, CHC leased the former Hollywood Theatre at Tanjong Katong Road and held services there for six years. On June 4, 1995, CHC leased the former Hollywood Theatre at Tanjong Katong Road and held services there for six years.


On April 29, 2004, City Harvest was awarded the ]:2000 certification for quality management and process management.<ref name="iso_cert2">{{cite news|title=Harvest Times-City Harvest Church:PSB ISO 90012000|date=2004-06-30|publisher='']''|author=Cheok Soh Hui}}</ref><ref name="iso_cert">{{cite web|title=PSB Certification|work=PSB |url=http://www.psbcert.com/CompanySearch.aspx|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}}</ref> On April 29, 2004, City Harvest was awarded the ]:2000 certification for quality management and process management.<ref name="iso_cert2">{{cite news|title=Harvest Times-City Harvest Church:PSB ISO 90012000|date=2004-06-30|publisher='']''|author=Cheok Soh Hui}}</ref><ref name="iso_cert"> {{cite web|title=PSB Certification|work=PSB |url=http://www.psbcert.com/CompanySearch.aspx|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}} </ref>


December 15, 2001 marked the day when the church moved to its 2,300-seater venue at Jurong West Street 91. Starting from December 11, 2005, the church rented another worship site at ] Hall 8 for its weekend English services to accommodate its rapidly growing congregation. In addition to its services at the Singapore Expo, CHC introduced two additional weekend English services at its Jurong West premises on 2 December 2007, increasing the number of English services to four. December 15, 2001 marked the day when the church moved to its 2,300-seater venue at Jurong West Street 91. Starting from December 11, 2005, the church rented another worship site at ] Hall 8 for its weekend English services to accommodate its rapidly growing congregation. In addition to its services at the Singapore Expo, CHC introduced two additional weekend English services at its Jurong West premises on 2 December 2007, increasing the number of English services to four.


==Staff and Committees== ==Staff and Committees==
The senior pastor of the church, ], and Pastor Choong Tsih Ming hold honorary positions and are not on the church’s payroll. The church has 10 licensed pastors on its payroll, with eight of them ordained as Reverends. The church employs 154 full-time staff at two locations - its Jurong West premises and its corporate office at ].<ref>{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church's Organisation Structure|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/english/our_church/organization_chart.cfm|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}}</ref> The senior pastor of the church, ], and Pastor Choong Tsih Ming hold honorary positions and are not on the church’s payroll. The church has 10 licensed pastors on its payroll, with eight of them ordained as Reverends. The church employs 154 full-time staff at two locations - its Jurong West premises and its corporate office at ].<ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Church's Organisation Structure|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/english/our_church/organization_chart.cfm|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}} </ref>


==Weekly Services== ==Weekly Services==
The church holds different weekly services in ], ], ], ], ], ] and ]. It also has weekly services for children and the mentally challenged. In 2010, the Childrens' Church launched their very own website. <ref>{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church Service Schedule|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/english/our_church/service_times.cfm|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}} </ref><ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Church Children's Church|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chckids.org.sg/default.aspx|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 10 2010}}</ref> The church holds different weekly services in ], ], ], ], ], ] and ]. It also has weekly services for children and the mentally challenged. In 2010, the Childrens' Church launched their very own website. <ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Church Service Schedule|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/english/our_church/service_times.cfm|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}} </ref><ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Church Children's Church|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chckids.org.sg/default.aspx|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 10 2010}} </ref>


==Ministries== ==Ministries==
CHC operates 37 internal ministries that ensure the smooth functioning of church services and various church-related activities and events. Almost all functions of the ministries are run by church members on a volunteer basis. The church believes that “every member is a minister in the house of God” and that each member should use his or her unique gifts, talents and abilities for the house of God. <ref>{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church - Our Ministry|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/ministry/ministry.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=December 5 2008}}</ref> It has various internal ministries in areas like ], ], ], ] and ], the ] and the ].<ref>{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – Join A Ministry |work=City Harvest Church|url= http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/ministry/ministry_joinMinistry.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=December 5 2009}}</ref> CHC operates 37 internal ministries that ensure the smooth functioning of church services and various church-related activities and events. Almost all functions of the ministries are run by church members on a volunteer basis. The church believes that “every member is a minister in the house of God” and that each member should use his or her unique gifts, talents and abilities for the house of God. <ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Church - Our Ministry|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/ministry/ministry.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=December 5 2008}} </ref> It has various internal ministries in areas like ], ], ], ] and ], the ] and the ].<ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – Join A Ministry |work=City Harvest Church|url= http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/ministry/ministry_joinMinistry.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=December 5 2009}} </ref>


===Usher=== ===Usher===

The Usher ministry is the largest ministry in CHC, with over 800 members. The ministry renders practical support to facilitate the efficient running of every service and meeting. Aside from their role as greeters and ushers, they also prepare the hall for services; such as the chairs, bulletins, offerings and communion elements. <ref>{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – Ushering Ministry|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/members/cm_Ushering.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 5 2010}}</ref> The Usher ministry is the largest ministry in CHC, with over 800 members. The ministry renders practical support to facilitate the efficient running of every service and meeting. Aside from their role as greeters and ushers, they also prepare the hall for services; such as the chairs, bulletins, offerings and communion elements. <ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – Ushering Ministry|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/members/cm_Ushering.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 5 2010}} </ref>


===Strikeforce=== ===Strikeforce===

A unique ministry in CHC is the Strikeforce ministry. It is part of the church’s music ministry and its purpose is to “train people to serve God in various expressions of rhythm, movement and drumming.” Strikeforce has taken part in many national events like the annual ] parade and also various church-wide conferences and events. On August 9, 2009, Strikeforce took the stage and performed before the masses in the annual Singapore National Day Parade celebration. Guests included the Singapore President and Members of Parliment. <ref>{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – Strikeforce|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/ministry/cm_Strikeforce.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=December 5 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – Strikeforce|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGk4qVaeJSA|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 10 2010}}</ref> A unique ministry in CHC is the Strikeforce ministry. It is part of the church’s music ministry and its purpose is to “train people to serve God in various expressions of rhythm, movement and drumming.” Strikeforce has taken part in many national events like the annual ] parade and also various church-wide conferences and events. On August 9, 2009, Strikeforce took the stage and performed before the masses in the annual Singapore National Day Parade celebration. Guests included the Singapore President and Members of Parliment. <ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – Strikeforce|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/ministry/cm_Strikeforce.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=December 5 2008}} </ref> <ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – Strikeforce|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hGk4qVaeJSA|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 10 2010}} </ref>


===The Millennial Orchestra=== ===The Millennial Orchestra===


A ministry started by CHC members, it was known previously as the City Harvest Symphony Orchestra. It performs in various church-wide conferences and events, and held its first performance under its new name, entitled “Sketches of Singapore” at the Asia Conference to an audience of 15,000. <ref>{{cite web|title=Biography of Kelly Tang|work=NIE|url=http://www.vpa.nie.edu.sg/music/kelly|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=December 5 2008}}</ref> A ministry started by CHC members, it was known previously as the City Harvest Symphony Orchestra. It performs in various church-wide conferences and events, and held its first performance under its new name, entitled “Sketches of Singapore” at the Asia Conference to an audience of 15,000. <ref> {{cite web|title=Biography of Kelly Tang|work=NIE|url=http://www.vpa.nie.edu.sg/music/kelly|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=December 5 2008}} </ref>


===Talking Hands (For The Hearing Impaired)=== ===Talking Hands (For The Hearing Impaired)===

This ministry seeks to help to meet the needs of the hearing impaired with support groups, recreational and tuition programs. This ministry seeks to help to meet the needs of the hearing impaired with support groups, recreational and tuition programs.
The volunteers befriend the hearing impaired and help them in developing their social skills. These volunteers are expertly trained in Sign Language courses conducted by City Harvest Community Services Association. <ref>{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – talking Hands|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/ministry/cm_talkingHands.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=January 20 2009}}</ref> The volunteers befriend the hearing impaired and help them in developing their social skills. These volunteers are expertly trained in Sign Language courses conducted by City Harvest Community Services Association. <ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – talking Hands|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/ministry/cm_talkingHands.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=January 20 2009}} </ref>


===Terminally-Ill=== ===Terminally-Ill===
Realizing the need to help the terminally-ill who are usually shunned by society, this ministry was started to provide practical and emotional support to this group of people. The volunteers make regular visits through home or hospital visitations in groups to patients including those suffering from Multiple Sclerosis and HIV/AIDS. Realizing the need to help the terminally-ill who are usually shunned by society, this ministry was started to provide practical and emotional support to this group of people. The volunteers make regular visits through home or hospital visitations in groups to patients including those suffering from Multiple Sclerosis and HIV/AIDS.


In order to be properly equipped for this ministry, the volunteers will attend training courses at the Communicable Disease Centre before they start to serve.<ref>{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – terminally-Ill|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/ministry/cm_terminallyIll.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=January 20 2009}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=CHCSA – terminally-Ill|work=CHCSA|url=http://www.chcsa.org.sg/terminally_ill.htm|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=January 20 2009}}</ref> In order to be properly equipped for this ministry, the volunteers will attend training courses at the Communicable Disease Centre before they start to serve.<ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – terminally-Ill|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/ministry/cm_terminallyIll.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=January 20 2009}} </ref><ref> {{cite web|title=CHCSA – terminally-Ill|work=CHCSA|url=http://www.chcsa.org.sg/terminally_ill.htm|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=January 20 2009}} </ref>


==Affiliate Organizations== ==Affiliate Organizations==
===School of Theology=== ===School of Theology===
The School of Theology, formerly known as City Harvest Bible Training Center, was started in 1994 with the purpose of training up pastors, missionaries and church workers for the establishing of local churches in Asia. <ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Bible Training Center|work=City Harvest Bible Training Center|url=http://chbtc.chc.org.sg |dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}} </ref> It conducts a six-month, full-time programe offering an Advanced Certificate of Theology. CHBTC is accredited with the ] in Singapore and ] for Education. In the past 16 years, 4,323 graduates from 32 countries have graduated from its courses. <ref>{{cite web|title=City Harvest Bible Training Center Cumulative Student Intake|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/church/church_stats_missions.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 7 2010}}</ref> The School of Theology, formerly known as City Harvest Bible Training Center, was started in 1994 with the purpose of training up pastors, missionaries and church workers for the establishing of local churches in Asia. <ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Bible Training Center|work=City Harvest Bible Training Center|url=http://chbtc.chc.org.sg |dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}} </ref> It conducts a six-month, full-time programe offering an Advanced Certificate of Theology. CHBTC is accredited with the ] in Singapore and ] for Education. In the past 16 years, 4,323 graduates from 32 countries have graduated from its courses. <ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Bible Training Center Cumulative Student Intake|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/church/church_stats_missions.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 7 2010}} </ref>


===City Harvest Community Services Association === ===City Harvest Community Services Association ===
{{main|City Harvest Community Services Association}}<ref>{{cite web|title=City Harvest Community Services Association|work=City Harvest Community Services Association|url=http://www.chcsa.org.sg
|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}}</ref>


City Harvest Community Services Association (CHCSA) currently employs 8 full-time staff and was registered with the Registry of Societies (ROS 162/97 WEL) on August 16, 1997. It received full membership with the National Council of Social Service on January 7, 2000. The current President of CHCSA is Toh Poh Chin Eileen. On April 29, 2004, CHCSA attained the ISO 9001:2000 certification. In 2009, CHCSA’s staff and volunteers provided 19,196 services to 14,227 different individuals in Singapore. These include services to prison inmates, drug addicts and ex-offenders. In 2009, CHCSA made 5,107 home visitations per week to help the community of Singapore. CHCSA received the Outstanding Community Partner Award 2009 for its partnership with Singapore’s Southwest CDC. <ref>{{cite web|title=About Us|work=City Harvest Community Services Association|url=http://www.chcsa.org.sg/about_chcsa.htm|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}}</ref> {{main|City Harvest Community Services Association}}<ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Community Services Association|work=City Harvest Community Services Association|url=http://www.chcsa.org.sg
|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}} </ref>
City Harvest Community Services Association (CHCSA) currently employs 8 full-time staff and was registered with the Registry of Societies (ROS 162/97 WEL) on August 16, 1997. It received full membership with the National Council of Social Service on January 7, 2000. The current President of CHCSA is Toh Poh Chin Eileen. On April 29, 2004, CHCSA attained the ISO 9001:2000 certification. In 2009, CHCSA’s staff and volunteers provided 19,196 services to 14,227 different individuals in Singapore. These include services to prison inmates, drug addicts and ex-offenders. In 2009, CHCSA made 5,107 home visitations per week to help the community of Singapore. CHCSA received the Outstanding Community Partner Award 2009 for its partnership with Singapore’s Southwest CDC. <ref> {{cite web|title=About Us|work=City Harvest Community Services Association|url=http://www.chcsa.org.sg/about_chcsa.htm|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}} </ref>


==Culture== ==Culture==
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===Missions & Church Planting=== ===Missions & Church Planting===

As of 2009, City Harvest Church has 47 affiliate "Harvest" churches. CHC has direct supervision over 29 of them, while 18 come under the oversight of Harvest School of Ministry led by Rev. George Ong.<ref>{{cite web|title=The City Harvest Church Story |work=City Harvest Church|url= http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/founder/publications_churchhistory.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 7 2010}}</ref> In 2009, CHC sent out 1,758 members in 301 teams to 70 cities to help Christian agencies overseas.<ref>{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – CHC Missions & Church Planting |work=City Harvest Church|url= http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/church/church_stats_missions.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=December 5 2009}}</ref> As of 2009, City Harvest Church has 47 affiliate "Harvest" churches. CHC has direct supervision over 29 of them, while 18 come under the oversight of Harvest School of Ministry led by Rev. George Ong.<ref> {{cite web|title=The City Harvest Church Story |work=City Harvest Church|url= http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/founder/publications_churchhistory.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 7 2010}} </ref> In 2009, CHC sent out 1,758 members in 301 teams to 70 cities to help Christian agencies overseas.<ref> {{cite web|title=City Harvest Church – CHC Missions & Church Planting |work=City Harvest Church|url= http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/church/church_stats_missions.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=December 5 2009}} </ref>


===Recordings and Stage Productions === ===Recordings and Stage Productions ===
Like most Charismatic churches, CHC uses contemporary music and settings for praise and worship, including a ] and a wide range of musical instruments.<ref>{{Citation | periodical= Asia Conference 2008| title=Facts & Figures | year=2008| pages=Pg:3–7}}</ref> It also has a strong drama team for its stage productions.<ref name="Taken from http://www.cross.com.sg">Taken from http://www.cross.com.sg</ref> In 2008, CHC's music style was featured in Channel News Asia prime time program 'Get Rea!' A summary of its works over the years is as follows: Like most Charismatic churches, CHC uses contemporary music and settings for praise and worship, including a ] and a wide range of musical instruments.<ref>{{Citation | periodical= Asia Conference 2008| title=Facts & Figures | year=2008| pages=Pg:3–7}}</ref> It also has a strong drama team for its stage productions. <ref name="Taken from http://www.cross.com.sg">Taken from http://www.cross.com.sg</ref> In 2008, CHC's music style was featured in Channel News Asia prime time program 'Get Rea!' A summary of its works over the years is as follows:


*1994: Against All Odds (CD Album) *1994 : Against All Odds (CD Album)
*1995: Remember Us (CD Album) *1995 : Remember Us (CD Album)
*1996: Life (CD Album) *1996 : Life (CD Album)
*1997: Moments (CD Album) *1997 : Moments (CD Album)
*2000: Future (CD Album) *2000 : Future (CD Album)
*2001: Angel—"The Story Of Singapore" (Stage Production) *2001 : Angel—"The Story Of Singapore" (Stage Production)
*2002: Megastar.com (Stage Production) *2002 : Megastar.com (Stage Production)
*2005: Mid-Autumn's Love (Stage Production) *2005 : Mid-Autumn's Love (Stage Production)
*2005: ] (CD Album, DVD)<ref name="Taken from http://www.cross.com.sg"/> *2005 : ] (CD Album, DVD)<ref name="Taken from http://www.cross.com.sg"/>
*2006: Emerge (DVD) *2006 : Emerge (DVD)
*2006: Glory (DVD) *2006 : Glory (DVD)
*2007: When I Grow Up (Musical Production)(DVD) *2007 : When I Grow Up (Musical Production)(DVD)
*2007: When I Grow Up (Soundtrack)(CD) *2007 : When I Grow Up (Soundtrack)(CD)
*2007: First Vol. I (Chinese DVD) *2007 : First Vol. I (Chinese DVD)
*2007: First Vol. II (Chinese DVD) *2007 : First Vol. II (Chinese DVD)
*2007: Destiny (CD Singles) *2007 : Destiny (CD Singles)
*2007: Breakaway (CD Album) *2007 : Breakaway (CD Album)
*2007: Breakaway (Chinese)(CD Album) *2007 : Breakaway (Chinese)(CD Album)
*2008: Special (Musical Production)(DVD) *2008 : Special (Musical Production)(DVD)
*2008: Special (Soundtrack)(CD) *2008 : Special (Soundtrack)(CD)
*2008: Light Of The City (CD Album) *2008 : Light Of The City (CD Album)
*2009: Light Of The City (Chinese)(CD Album) *2009 : Light Of The City (Chinese)(CD Album)
*2009: Fly High (Chinese) (CD Album) *2009 : Fly High (Chinese) (CD Album)
*2009: Writings On The Walls (CD Album) *2009 : Writings On The Walls (CD Album)


===Broadcasting=== ===Broadcasting===

In 2009, the church’s ] of its services reached approximately 484,723 viewers from 106 countries, totalling an average of 9,322 viewers per weekend. The church also has a 30-minute television broadcast program called "Harvest Time", which is broadcast on 13 Cable Television Networks and satellites, with a potential viewership of about 986 million.<ref> {{cite web|title=Harvest Times Broadcast|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/church/church_stats_missions.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=Feb 02 2009}} </ref> In 2009, the church’s ] of its services reached approximately 484,723 viewers from 106 countries, totalling an average of 9,322 viewers per weekend. The church also has a 30-minute television broadcast program called "Harvest Time", which is broadcast on 13 Cable Television Networks and satellites, with a potential viewership of about 986 million.<ref> {{cite web|title=Harvest Times Broadcast|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/church/church_stats_missions.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=Feb 02 2009}} </ref>
Harvest Time is available in its original English-language or Chinese-language translation, depending on the broadcast station.<ref> {{cite web|title=Harvest Times Broadcast|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/media/media_satellite.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=Feb 02 2009}} </ref> Harvest Time is available in its original English-language or Chinese-language translation, depending on the broadcast station.<ref> {{cite web|title=Harvest Times Broadcast|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/media/media_satellite.php|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=Feb 02 2009}} </ref>


===Publications=== ===Publications===
The church published a magazine quarterly called ''Harvest Times'' (founded in 1999).<ref name="chc.org.sg">{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church's Fact Sheet|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/english/founder/factsheet.cfm |dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}}</ref><ref>Taken from http://www.chc.org.sg/harvesttimes/default.asp</ref> The church published a magazine quarterly called ''Harvest Times'' (founded in 1999).<ref name="chc.org.sg">{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church's Fact Sheet|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/english/founder/factsheet.cfm
|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}} </ref><ref>Taken from http://www.chc.org.sg/harvesttimes/default.asp</ref>
It has a readership of 60,000. In 2006, a Chinese version of ''Harvest Times'', now dubbed ''Chinese Harvest Times'' was started and has a readership of close to 45,000. It has a readership of 60,000. In 2006, a Chinese version of ''Harvest Times'', now dubbed ''Chinese Harvest Times'' was started and has a readership of close to 45,000.


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==Awards== ==Awards==
List of awards received.<ref name="chc-factsheet">{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church's Fact Sheet|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/founder/publications_factsheet.php |dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 07 2010}}</ref> List of awards received.<ref name="chc-factsheet">{{cite web|title=City Harvest Church's Fact Sheet|work=City Harvest Church|url=http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/founder/publications_factsheet.php
|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=March 07 2010}} </ref>
*2002: 3rd Annual Intelligent20 Award <ref>{{cite news|title=3rd Annual Intelligent20 Award |date=January/February, 2003|publisher=Inteelligent Asia|author=Leong Khay Mun}}</ref> *2002 : 3rd Annual Intelligent20 Award <ref>{{cite news|title=3rd Annual Intelligent20 Award |date=January/February, 2003|publisher=Inteelligent Asia|author=Leong Khay Mun}}</ref>
*2004: ISO 9001:2000 Certification <ref name="iso_cert2"/><ref name="iso_cert"/> *2004 : ISO 9001:2000 Certification <ref name="iso_cert2"/><ref name="iso_cert"/>
*2005 : Hitwise Award - Ranked #1 in the category: Lifestyle - Religion for most visited website *2005 : Hitwise Award - Ranked #1 in the category: Lifestyle - Religion for most visited website
*2006: Hitwise Award - Ranked #1 in the category: Lifestyle - Religion for most visited website<ref>{{cite web|title=Hitwise Singapore|work=Hitwise Singapore|url=http://sg.hitwise.com/index.php |dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}}</ref> *2006 : Hitwise Award - Ranked #1 in the category: Lifestyle - Religion for most visited website<ref> {{cite web|title=Hitwise Singapore|work=Hitwise Singapore|url=http://sg.hitwise.com/index.php
|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=May 29 2007}} </ref>
*2007: Hitwise Award - Ranked #1 in the category: Lifestyle - Religion for most visited website *2007 : Hitwise Award - Ranked #1 in the category: Lifestyle - Religion for most visited website
*2008-2009 Hitwise Award - Ranked Top 10 in the category: Lifestyle - Religion for most visited website *2008-2009 Hitwise Award - Ranked Top 10 in the category: Lifestyle - Religion for most visited website


==Conferences== ==Conferences==
===Emerge Conference=== ===Emerge Conference===

City Harvest Church is the organizer of ''Emerge'', a four-day youth conference. In 2007, 8,830 youth leaders and delegates from a total of 16 nations attended the event. CHC also co-hosts Emerge conferences in Malaysia and Taiwan every year. There are 61 competitions including Spelling Bee, Math Olympaid, Word Power, Singing Contest, Preaching Challenge, Blog Design, Short Film, Make-up & Costume Design, Extreme Sports, etc. The May 31 opening night of the Singapore Emerge 2007 was broadcast "live" on GOD TV to 122 million homes in more than 200 nations and territories.<ref>{{cite web |title=Distribution |work=God TV |url=http://eu.god.tv/Group/Group.aspx?id=1000012649 |dateformat=mdy |accessdate=June 5 2007}}</ref> City Harvest Church is the organizer of ''Emerge'', a four-day youth conference. In 2007, 8,830 youth leaders and delegates from a total of 16 nations attended the event. CHC also co-hosts Emerge conferences in Malaysia and Taiwan every year. There are 61 competitions including Spelling Bee, Math Olympaid, Word Power, Singing Contest, Preaching Challenge, Blog Design, Short Film, Make-up & Costume Design, Extreme Sports, etc. The May 31 opening night of the Singapore Emerge 2007 was broadcast "live" on GOD TV to 122 million homes in more than 200 nations and territories.<ref> {{cite web|title=Distribution|work=God TV|url=http://eu.god.tv/Group/Group.aspx?id=1000012649
|dateformat=mdy |accessdate=June 5 2007}} </ref>


===Asia Conference=== ===Asia Conference===

Asia Conference is a biannual five-day conference with workshops and sessions. World-class preachers, bible teachers, worship leaders and Christian artistes are invited to teach and perform at the conference. Asia Conference is a biannual five-day conference with workshops and sessions. World-class preachers, bible teachers, worship leaders and Christian artistes are invited to teach and perform at the conference.
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==Church Building== ==Church Building==
The present, main church building located at Jurong West Street 91 was completed in 2002. Construction of building cost approximately S$48 million (US$26.6 million) and it seats up to 2,300 attendees. <ref>{{cite news |title= Other places of worship slash out too|publisher= Electric New Paper |date= 2005-08-29 |url= http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/news/story/0,4136,93714,00.html}} By Skye Tan</ref> The present, main church building located at Jurong West Street 91 was completed in 2002. Construction of building cost approximately S$48 million (US$26.6 million) and it seats up to 2,300 attendees. <ref> {{cite news | title = Other places of worship slash out too| publisher = Electric New Paper | date = 2005-08-29 | url = http://newpaper.asia1.com.sg/news/story/0,4136,93714,00.html}} By Skye Tan </ref>


It is the first ]-clad building in Asia and is modelled after the Guggenheim Museum in ], ]. Special limestone for part of the building was imported from Europe. The frontage of the building has a fountain wall which is lit up at night. There are more than 200 parking lots within the building. The lounge area on the first floor has plasma television monitors built into the walls featuring local news program or video recordings of past church services. The building also encompasses a café, a rooftop garden, a children’s playground and wading pool, a baptism pool as well as a small putting green for golf enthusiasts. It is the first ]-clad building in Asia and is modelled after the Guggenheim Museum in ], ]. Special limestone for part of the building was imported from Europe. The frontage of the building has a fountain wall which is lit up at night. There are more than 200 parking lots within the building. The lounge area on the first floor has plasma television monitors built into the walls featuring local news program or video recordings of past church services. The building also encompasses a café, a rooftop garden, a children’s playground and wading pool, a baptism pool as well as a small putting green for golf enthusiasts.
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On December 15, 2005, CHC began renting Hall 8 of ] as an additional worship venue with a seating configuration that accommodates a maximum of 8,100 attendees. Currently the church is on a building fund drive for another bigger building to house its increased attendance. On December 15, 2005, CHC began renting Hall 8 of ] as an additional worship venue with a seating configuration that accommodates a maximum of 8,100 attendees. Currently the church is on a building fund drive for another bigger building to house its increased attendance.


The mega church invested $310 million to become the co-owner of Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre.<ref>http://www.todayonline.com/Singapore/EDC100322-0000021/Spirits-remain-high-at-City-Harvest-Church</ref> The 12,000-seater auditorium is expected to be ready for use in the second quarter of 2011. <ref>{{cite news | title = Church to co-own Suntec | publisher = Straits Times | date = 2010-03-07 | url = http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_499058.html}}</ref> Levels six and seven will solely be used by the church.<ref> {{cite news | title = Church to co-own Suntec | publisher = Straits Times | date = 2010-03-07 | url = http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_499058.html}}</ref> Dr Kong, the church's senior pastor has commented that "we will have a church in the marketplace, for the marketplace, to penetrate the marketplace." <ref>{{cite news | title = City Harvest's expansion plan | publisher = Straits Times | date = 2010-01-18 | url = http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_478770.html}}</ref> The mega church invested $310 million to become the co-owner of Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre.<ref>http://www.todayonline.com/Singapore/EDC100322-0000021/Spirits-remain-high-at-City-Harvest-Church</ref> The 12,000-seater auditorium is expected to be ready for use in the second quarter of 2011. <ref> {{cite news | title = Church to co-own Suntec | publisher = Straits Times | date = 2010-03-07 | url = http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_499058.html}}</ref> Levels six and seven will solely be used by the church.<ref> {{cite news | title = Church to co-own Suntec | publisher = Straits Times | date = 2010-03-07 | url = http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_499058.html}}</ref>Dr Kong, the church's senior pastor has commented that "we will have a church in the marketplace, for the marketplace, to penetrate the marketplace." <ref> {{cite news | title = City Harvest's expansion plan | publisher = Straits Times | date = 2010-01-18 | url = http://www.straitstimes.com/BreakingNews/Singapore/Story/STIStory_478770.html}} </ref>


==Controversy== ==Controversy==
===S$310 million Suntec investment=== ===S$310 million Suntec investment===

The decision by the church to become a co-owner of Suntec with its S$310 million investment has generated much controversy within the country. As a registered charity, CHC's income - expected to include profits and dividends from space rental and tenant leases in Suntec Singapore in the future - is non-taxable. The authorities, including the Commissioner of Charities are seeking clarifications on its business venture. A church follower, operations executive Pamela Lim, 42, felt that CHC should not be taxed, fellow church-goer Purandi Kertonugroho, 39, said it should pay taxes on profits derived from the venture.<ref>{{cite news | title = City Harvest's expansion plan | publisher = Today Online | date = 2010-03-22 | url = http://www.todayonline.com/Singapore/EDC100322-0000021/Spirits-remain-high-at-City-Harvest-Church}}</ref> The decision by the church to become a co-owner of Suntec with its S$310 million investment has generated much controversy within the country. As a registered charity, CHC's income - expected to include profits and dividends from space rental and tenant leases in Suntec Singapore in the future - is non-taxable. The authorities, including the Commissioner of Charities are seeking clarifications on its business venture. A church follower, operations executive Pamela Lim, 42, felt that CHC should not be taxed, fellow church-goer Purandi Kertonugroho, 39, said it should pay taxes on profits derived from the venture.<ref> {{cite news | title = City Harvest's expansion plan | publisher = Today Online | date = 2010-03-22 | url = http://www.todayonline.com/Singapore/EDC100322-0000021/Spirits-remain-high-at-City-Harvest-Church}} </ref>


The Straits Times also reported that in the wake of the $310 million investment, the public is questioning whether religious organisations, which are registered as charities, should be allowed to go into business using what are essentially donor funds.<ref>http://news.asiaone.com/News/the%2BStraits%2BTimes/Story/A1Story20100320-205694.html Charity commissioner questions City Harvest. Mar 20th, 2010</ref> More than a dozen of letters have also been published in the Straits Times Forum questioning if City Harvest Church should still be considered as a charity and if the returns from its property investments should be exempted from tax.<ref>http://www.temasekreview.com/2010/03/24/city-harvest-church-continues-to-come-under-fire-from-skeptical-singaporeans-on-st-forum-over-its-purchase-of-suntec-stake City Harvest Church continues to come under fire from skeptical Singaporeans on ST Forum over its purchase of Suntec stake. Mar 24th, 2010</ref>The church also said that there was a "strong and unfounded allegation" floating online that the Management Board and Reverend Kong Hee were "deliberately concealing a number of embarrassing facts from its members" with regard to the Suntec investment. It said that the allegation was "furthest from the truth".<ref>http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1047863/1/.html City Harvest Church responds to questions over non-disclosure of Suntec deal. April 4th, 2010.</ref> The Straits Times also reported that in the wake of the $310 million investment, the public is questioning whether religious organisations, which are registered as charities, should be allowed to go into business using what are essentially donor funds.<ref>http://news.asiaone.com/News/the%2BStraits%2BTimes/Story/A1Story20100320-205694.html Charity commissioner questions City Harvest. Mar 20th, 2010</ref> More than a dozen of letters have also been published in the Straits Times Forum questioning if City Harvest Church should still be considered as a charity and if the returns from its property investments should be exempted from tax.<ref>http://www.temasekreview.com/2010/03/24/city-harvest-church-continues-to-come-under-fire-from-skeptical-singaporeans-on-st-forum-over-its-purchase-of-suntec-stake City Harvest Church continues to come under fire from skeptical Singaporeans on ST Forum over its purchase of Suntec stake. Mar 24th, 2010</ref>The church also said that there was a "strong and unfounded allegation" floating online that the Management Board and Reverend Kong Hee were "deliberately concealing a number of embarrassing facts from its members" with regard to the Suntec investment. It said that the allegation was "furthest from the truth".<ref>http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1047863/1/.html City Harvest Church responds to questions over non-disclosure of Suntec deal. April 4th, 2010.</ref>
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===Association with healing evangelist Benny Hinn=== ===Association with healing evangelist Benny Hinn===
{{Off-topic|Benny_Hinn}}
City Harvest Church has on a number of occasions hosted healing evangelist Benny Hinn to conduct miracle healing sessions. On March 11 and 12, 2005, City Harvest Church hosted Benny Hinn at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.<ref>http://www.chc.org.sg/harvesttimes/ht_25/ht_25_03.asp</ref> On April 13 to 15, 2007, City Harvest Church had a weekend special with Benny Hinn.<ref>http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/church/church_eventsCal.php?YRID=2007</ref> City Harvest Church also hosted its very first Asia Conference from 19 to 23 November, 2008 at the Singapore Expo and Benny Hinn conducted a healing session during the conference.<ref>http://www.chc.org.sg/citynews/?p=7980</ref>


City Harvest Church has on a number of occasions hosted healing evangelist Benny Hinn to conduct miracle healing sessions. On March 11 and 12, 2005, City Harvest Church hosted Benny Hinn at the Singapore Indoor Stadium.<ref>http://www.chc.org.sg/harvesttimes/ht_25/ht_25_03.asp</ref> On April 13 to 15, 2007, City Harvest Church had a weekend special with Benny Hinn.<ref>http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/church/church_eventsCal.php?YRID=2007</ref> City Harvest Church also hosted its very first Asia Conference from 19 to 23 November, 2008 at the Singapore Expo and Benny Hinn conducted a healing session during the conference.<ref>http://www.chc.org.sg/citynews/?p=7980</ref>
Benny Hinn himself is a controversial figure. In April 2001 HBO aired a documentary called "A Question of Miracles" on Hinn and another fellow faith healer.<ref> http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0447686/</ref> The Emmy award-winning director and producer of the documentary, Antony Thomas told CNN's Kyra Phillips that they did not find cases where people were healed by Hinn.<ref>http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0104/15/sm.13.html</ref> Thomas also told the New York Times about Hinn's claims: {{quote|"If I had seen miracles, I would have been happy to trumpet it... but in retrospect, I think they do more damage to Christianity than the most committed atheist."<ref>http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9F0CEFDE1131F936A25757C0A9679C8B63&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=print</ref>}}
{{Off-topic|Benny_Hinn}}
Benny Hinn himself is a controversial figure. In April 2001 HBO aired a documentary called "A Question of Miracles" on Hinn and another fellow faith healer.<ref> http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0447686/</ref> The Emmy award-winning director and producer of the documentary, Antony Thomas told CNN's Kyra Phillips that they did not find cases where people were healed by Hinn.<ref>http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0104/15/sm.13.html</ref> Thomas also told the New York Times about Hinn's claims, "If I had seen miracles, I would have been happy to trumpet it . . . but in retrospect, I think they do more damage to Christianity than the most committed atheist."<ref>http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9F0CEFDE1131F936A25757C0A9679C8B63&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=print</ref>


In March 2005, Ministry Watch, an independent evangelical organization which reviews Christian ministries for financial transparency and efficiency issued a Donor Alert stating that "the reported exorbitant spending of the Hinn family reveals that Benny Hinn's ministry has far more money than it needs to carry out its ministry". It advised Christians to "prayerfully consider withholding contributions to Benny Hinn" while praying for his restoration and repentance.<ref>http://www.ministrywatch.com/mw2.1/pdf/MWDA_053105_BennyHinn.pdf</ref> Benny Hinn's ministry is not a member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability.<ref>http://www.apologeticsindex.org/h01.html In March 2005, Ministry Watch, an independent evangelical organization which reviews Christian ministries for financial transparency and efficiency issued a Donor Alert stating that "the reported exorbitant spending of the Hinn family reveals that Benny Hinn's ministry has far more money than it needs to carry out its ministry". It advised Christians to "prayerfully consider withholding contributions to Benny Hinn" while praying for his restoration and repentance.<ref>http://www.ministrywatch.com/mw2.1/pdf/MWDA_053105_BennyHinn.pdf</ref> Benny Hinn's ministry is not a member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability.<ref>http://www.apologeticsindex.org/h01.html
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==References== ==References==
{{reflist|2}}
{{refs|colwidth=30em}}


==See also== ==See also==
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*] *]


==External links== == External links ==
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Revision as of 16:18, 12 April 2010

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Church in Singapore
City Harvest Church
CountrySingapore
DenominationIndependent
Websitewww.chc.org.sg
Clergy
Senior pastor(s)Rev. Dr. Kong Hee

City Harvest Church (Chinese: 城市丰收教会) or CHC is the largest megachurch in Singapore. It bases its values on Charismatic and Pentecostal teachings, with doctrinal emphasis on the Great Commandment, the Great Commission and the Cultural Mandate. It has been described by the Charisma magazine as "one of the largest congregations in Asia." It is the largest independent church in Singapore, with a membership of 32,731 and a monthly average of 28,134 attendees in its weekend services. The church's highest record attendance was 57,691 during City Harvest's Christmas services in 2008. 47.3% of its members are below the age of 25 years. Its income for the year ending on 31 Mar 2009 was $34.7m which mainly came from tithes and offerings.

The church is a full member of the National Council of Churches, Evangelical Fellowship of Singapore and Festival of Praise Fellowship. It has multiple, multi-lingual weekend services at two locations, its church building in Jurong West and the Singapore Expo. In Singapore, it operates various internal ministries and two affiliate organisations and companies. Overseas, CHC serves as the spiritual resource centre for related churches based in Asia, and has active relationships with churches and bible schools across Asia, conducting joint conferences and seminars with them annually.

Mission Statement

The church has a mission "to build a church with a strong spiritual atmosphere of faith and purity, where every member is released into ministry, discipled in the Great Commandment to obey the Great Commission and the Cultural Mandate."

This belief spawns from the two beams of the cross: the "vertical" beam of loving God wholeheartedly, and the "horizontal" beam of loving people fervently, both representing the Great Commandment and the Great Commission.

The third aspect of City Harvest's ministry is the Cultural Mandate, also known as Christ in Culture, where its members are encouraged to engage culture in innovative manners.

Together with its Mission Statement, City Harvest Church has 17 statements of faith, which form the basis of its teachings to the congregation and the foundation of its various ministries.

History

City Harvest Church was founded by Kong Hee with 20 people on May 7, 1989. During its early years, CHC met at various venues such as the Katong Park Hotel, NTUC Auditorium, Ministry of Environment Building, National Productivity Board Auditorium, Hotel Grand Central, Orchard Hotel, World Trade Centre and the Westin Hotel.

On June 4, 1995, CHC leased the former Hollywood Theatre at Tanjong Katong Road and held services there for six years.

On April 29, 2004, City Harvest was awarded the ISO 9001:2000 certification for quality management and process management.

December 15, 2001 marked the day when the church moved to its 2,300-seater venue at Jurong West Street 91. Starting from December 11, 2005, the church rented another worship site at Singapore Expo Hall 8 for its weekend English services to accommodate its rapidly growing congregation. In addition to its services at the Singapore Expo, CHC introduced two additional weekend English services at its Jurong West premises on 2 December 2007, increasing the number of English services to four.

Staff and Committees

The senior pastor of the church, Kong Hee, and Pastor Choong Tsih Ming hold honorary positions and are not on the church’s payroll. The church has 10 licensed pastors on its payroll, with eight of them ordained as Reverends. The church employs 154 full-time staff at two locations - its Jurong West premises and its corporate office at Suntec City.

Weekly Services

The church holds different weekly services in English, Mandarin, Hokkien, Cantonese, Indonesian, Filipino and Tamil. It also has weekly services for children and the mentally challenged. In 2010, the Childrens' Church launched their very own website.

Ministries

CHC operates 37 internal ministries that ensure the smooth functioning of church services and various church-related activities and events. Almost all functions of the ministries are run by church members on a volunteer basis. The church believes that “every member is a minister in the house of God” and that each member should use his or her unique gifts, talents and abilities for the house of God. It has various internal ministries in areas like media, technology, music, service and community services, the Boys Brigade and the Girls Brigade.

Usher

The Usher ministry is the largest ministry in CHC, with over 800 members. The ministry renders practical support to facilitate the efficient running of every service and meeting. Aside from their role as greeters and ushers, they also prepare the hall for services; such as the chairs, bulletins, offerings and communion elements.

Strikeforce

A unique ministry in CHC is the Strikeforce ministry. It is part of the church’s music ministry and its purpose is to “train people to serve God in various expressions of rhythm, movement and drumming.” Strikeforce has taken part in many national events like the annual Chingay parade and also various church-wide conferences and events. On August 9, 2009, Strikeforce took the stage and performed before the masses in the annual Singapore National Day Parade celebration. Guests included the Singapore President and Members of Parliment.

The Millennial Orchestra

A ministry started by CHC members, it was known previously as the City Harvest Symphony Orchestra. It performs in various church-wide conferences and events, and held its first performance under its new name, entitled “Sketches of Singapore” at the Asia Conference to an audience of 15,000.

Talking Hands (For The Hearing Impaired)

This ministry seeks to help to meet the needs of the hearing impaired with support groups, recreational and tuition programs.

The volunteers befriend the hearing impaired and help them in developing their social skills. These volunteers are expertly trained in Sign Language courses conducted by City Harvest Community Services Association.

Terminally-Ill

Realizing the need to help the terminally-ill who are usually shunned by society, this ministry was started to provide practical and emotional support to this group of people. The volunteers make regular visits through home or hospital visitations in groups to patients including those suffering from Multiple Sclerosis and HIV/AIDS.

In order to be properly equipped for this ministry, the volunteers will attend training courses at the Communicable Disease Centre before they start to serve.

Affiliate Organizations

School of Theology

The School of Theology, formerly known as City Harvest Bible Training Center, was started in 1994 with the purpose of training up pastors, missionaries and church workers for the establishing of local churches in Asia. It conducts a six-month, full-time programe offering an Advanced Certificate of Theology. CHBTC is accredited with the Ministry of Education in Singapore and CaseTrust for Education. In the past 16 years, 4,323 graduates from 32 countries have graduated from its courses.

City Harvest Community Services Association

Main article: City Harvest Community Services Association

City Harvest Community Services Association (CHCSA) currently employs 8 full-time staff and was registered with the Registry of Societies (ROS 162/97 WEL) on August 16, 1997. It received full membership with the National Council of Social Service on January 7, 2000. The current President of CHCSA is Toh Poh Chin Eileen. On April 29, 2004, CHCSA attained the ISO 9001:2000 certification. In 2009, CHCSA’s staff and volunteers provided 19,196 services to 14,227 different individuals in Singapore. These include services to prison inmates, drug addicts and ex-offenders. In 2009, CHCSA made 5,107 home visitations per week to help the community of Singapore. CHCSA received the Outstanding Community Partner Award 2009 for its partnership with Singapore’s Southwest CDC.

Culture

Cell Groups

Cell groups (CG) are a major part of the church's ministry. The cell group meeting is a time where members meet in smaller groups for worship, prayer and bible studies. The meetings are usually held once a week, on a day decided by the cell group's leader and its locations can be found throughout Singapore. Currently, there are 700 CG leaders with some running more than two CGs. CG leaders are mostly lay members of the church who have gone through the church's discipleship and leadership training. Cell groups are divided into youth and adult cell groups, with youth cell groups comprising adolescent individuals of ages 12 to 18.

According to CHC's senior pastor, as the Church grows larger in numbers, "Cell groups provide the optimum context for effective discipleship", where members can still forge close relationships with fellow Christians in a much smaller setting. Positive peer pressure can also be exuded in smaller cell groups, fostering strong bonds of friendship among church members.

Missions & Church Planting

As of 2009, City Harvest Church has 47 affiliate "Harvest" churches. CHC has direct supervision over 29 of them, while 18 come under the oversight of Harvest School of Ministry led by Rev. George Ong. In 2009, CHC sent out 1,758 members in 301 teams to 70 cities to help Christian agencies overseas.

Recordings and Stage Productions

Like most Charismatic churches, CHC uses contemporary music and settings for praise and worship, including a choir and a wide range of musical instruments. It also has a strong drama team for its stage productions. In 2008, CHC's music style was featured in Channel News Asia prime time program 'Get Rea!' A summary of its works over the years is as follows:

  • 1994 : Against All Odds (CD Album)
  • 1995 : Remember Us (CD Album)
  • 1996 : Life (CD Album)
  • 1997 : Moments (CD Album)
  • 2000 : Future (CD Album)
  • 2001 : Angel—"The Story Of Singapore" (Stage Production)
  • 2002 : Megastar.com (Stage Production)
  • 2005 : Mid-Autumn's Love (Stage Production)
  • 2005 : Cross (CD Album, DVD)
  • 2006 : Emerge (DVD)
  • 2006 : Glory (DVD)
  • 2007 : When I Grow Up (Musical Production)(DVD)
  • 2007 : When I Grow Up (Soundtrack)(CD)
  • 2007 : First Vol. I (Chinese DVD)
  • 2007 : First Vol. II (Chinese DVD)
  • 2007 : Destiny (CD Singles)
  • 2007 : Breakaway (CD Album)
  • 2007 : Breakaway (Chinese)(CD Album)
  • 2008 : Special (Musical Production)(DVD)
  • 2008 : Special (Soundtrack)(CD)
  • 2008 : Light Of The City (CD Album)
  • 2009 : Light Of The City (Chinese)(CD Album)
  • 2009 : Fly High (Chinese) (CD Album)
  • 2009 : Writings On The Walls (CD Album)

Broadcasting

In 2009, the church’s webcast of its services reached approximately 484,723 viewers from 106 countries, totalling an average of 9,322 viewers per weekend. The church also has a 30-minute television broadcast program called "Harvest Time", which is broadcast on 13 Cable Television Networks and satellites, with a potential viewership of about 986 million. Harvest Time is available in its original English-language or Chinese-language translation, depending on the broadcast station.

Publications

The church published a magazine quarterly called Harvest Times (founded in 1999). It has a readership of 60,000. In 2006, a Chinese version of Harvest Times, now dubbed Chinese Harvest Times was started and has a readership of close to 45,000.

On 1 April 2009, Harvest Times launched its monthly online edition and is available at www.harvesttimes.com.sg.

In addition, City News, a Christian news broadcasting sector of the church that publishes its newspaper weekly was started in 2009 and celebrated its first-year anniversary in February 2010.

Awards

List of awards received.

  • 2002 : 3rd Annual Intelligent20 Award
  • 2004 : ISO 9001:2000 Certification
  • 2005 : Hitwise Award - Ranked #1 in the category: Lifestyle - Religion for most visited website
  • 2006 : Hitwise Award - Ranked #1 in the category: Lifestyle - Religion for most visited website
  • 2007 : Hitwise Award - Ranked #1 in the category: Lifestyle - Religion for most visited website
  • 2008-2009 Hitwise Award - Ranked Top 10 in the category: Lifestyle - Religion for most visited website

Conferences

Emerge Conference

City Harvest Church is the organizer of Emerge, a four-day youth conference. In 2007, 8,830 youth leaders and delegates from a total of 16 nations attended the event. CHC also co-hosts Emerge conferences in Malaysia and Taiwan every year. There are 61 competitions including Spelling Bee, Math Olympaid, Word Power, Singing Contest, Preaching Challenge, Blog Design, Short Film, Make-up & Costume Design, Extreme Sports, etc. The May 31 opening night of the Singapore Emerge 2007 was broadcast "live" on GOD TV to 122 million homes in more than 200 nations and territories.

Asia Conference

Asia Conference is a biannual five-day conference with workshops and sessions. World-class preachers, bible teachers, worship leaders and Christian artistes are invited to teach and perform at the conference.

The first inaugural Asia Conference was held from 19 to 23 November 2008 and drew over 20,000 foreign delegates from 63 countries. Speakers included Kong Hee, Phil Pringle, Chris Pringle, Ulf Ekman, A. R. Bernard and Benny Hinn. Don Moen, C3 Band, Carola Häggkvist and True Worshippers also performed during the conference.

The event used up 3 Expo halls and 26 rooms for the 10 conference sessions and 53 elective workshops.

The next Asia Conference will be held from 26 to 30 May 2010. Confirmed speakers include Kong Hee, Phil Pringle, A. R. Bernard, Steve Munsey, David Yonggi Cho and Reinhard Bonnke.

Church Building

The present, main church building located at Jurong West Street 91 was completed in 2002. Construction of building cost approximately S$48 million (US$26.6 million) and it seats up to 2,300 attendees.

It is the first titanium-clad building in Asia and is modelled after the Guggenheim Museum in Bilbao, Spain. Special limestone for part of the building was imported from Europe. The frontage of the building has a fountain wall which is lit up at night. There are more than 200 parking lots within the building. The lounge area on the first floor has plasma television monitors built into the walls featuring local news program or video recordings of past church services. The building also encompasses a café, a rooftop garden, a children’s playground and wading pool, a baptism pool as well as a small putting green for golf enthusiasts.

The auditorium (which is underground) covers 1,700 square meters and is totally column-free. There are two artist make-up rooms directly behind the stage. The stage was created by Dan Hess, a designer who formerly worked with Christie’s Auction House in New York.

On December 15, 2005, CHC began renting Hall 8 of Singapore Expo as an additional worship venue with a seating configuration that accommodates a maximum of 8,100 attendees. Currently the church is on a building fund drive for another bigger building to house its increased attendance.

The mega church invested $310 million to become the co-owner of Suntec Singapore International Convention and Exhibition Centre. The 12,000-seater auditorium is expected to be ready for use in the second quarter of 2011. Levels six and seven will solely be used by the church.Dr Kong, the church's senior pastor has commented that "we will have a church in the marketplace, for the marketplace, to penetrate the marketplace."

Controversy

S$310 million Suntec investment

The decision by the church to become a co-owner of Suntec with its S$310 million investment has generated much controversy within the country. As a registered charity, CHC's income - expected to include profits and dividends from space rental and tenant leases in Suntec Singapore in the future - is non-taxable. The authorities, including the Commissioner of Charities are seeking clarifications on its business venture. A church follower, operations executive Pamela Lim, 42, felt that CHC should not be taxed, fellow church-goer Purandi Kertonugroho, 39, said it should pay taxes on profits derived from the venture.

The Straits Times also reported that in the wake of the $310 million investment, the public is questioning whether religious organisations, which are registered as charities, should be allowed to go into business using what are essentially donor funds. More than a dozen of letters have also been published in the Straits Times Forum questioning if City Harvest Church should still be considered as a charity and if the returns from its property investments should be exempted from tax.The church also said that there was a "strong and unfounded allegation" floating online that the Management Board and Reverend Kong Hee were "deliberately concealing a number of embarrassing facts from its members" with regard to the Suntec investment. It said that the allegation was "furthest from the truth".


Association with healing evangelist Benny Hinn

City Harvest Church has on a number of occasions hosted healing evangelist Benny Hinn to conduct miracle healing sessions. On March 11 and 12, 2005, City Harvest Church hosted Benny Hinn at the Singapore Indoor Stadium. On April 13 to 15, 2007, City Harvest Church had a weekend special with Benny Hinn. City Harvest Church also hosted its very first Asia Conference from 19 to 23 November, 2008 at the Singapore Expo and Benny Hinn conducted a healing session during the conference.

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Benny Hinn himself is a controversial figure. In April 2001 HBO aired a documentary called "A Question of Miracles" on Hinn and another fellow faith healer. The Emmy award-winning director and producer of the documentary, Antony Thomas told CNN's Kyra Phillips that they did not find cases where people were healed by Hinn. Thomas also told the New York Times about Hinn's claims, "If I had seen miracles, I would have been happy to trumpet it . . . but in retrospect, I think they do more damage to Christianity than the most committed atheist."

In March 2005, Ministry Watch, an independent evangelical organization which reviews Christian ministries for financial transparency and efficiency issued a Donor Alert stating that "the reported exorbitant spending of the Hinn family reveals that Benny Hinn's ministry has far more money than it needs to carry out its ministry". It advised Christians to "prayerfully consider withholding contributions to Benny Hinn" while praying for his restoration and repentance. Benny Hinn's ministry is not a member of the Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability. In November 2006 the CBC Television did a special show titled "Do You Believe in Miracles" on the apparent transgressions committed by Benny Hinn's ministry. With the aid of hidden cameras and crusade witnesses, the producers of the show attempted to demonstrate Benny's misappropriation of funds, his fabrication of the truth, and the way in which his staff chose crusade audience members to come on stage for televised healings. According to the show, the seriously disabled who attend his healings are interviewed and then weeded out from ever getting the chance to come on stage. There is a wheelchair section situated at the back of the audience, away from the stage. Instead, those who have minor injuries, or injuries not immediately visible are brought up in their place. Benny Hinn claims proof from the believers' doctors that healings have been successful. However, according to the show, none of these doctor notes have ever been produced as evidence to his claims. All the 'healed' that the show was able to track down and talk to were not healed and had never heard from Benny Hinn's ministry again. Hinn promised on stage to set up a fund for the college education of a blind child, who he said was now healed. When contacted, the child was still blind and had not heard back from his ministry after two years. The show further estimates that Benny Hinn's ministry rakes in about $200 million annually.

In December 2006, Benny Hinn's ministry sent out mailers asking for donations towards a new Gulfstream jet valued at an estimated $36 million and costing over $600,000/year to maintain and operate.

On 1 February 2010, Hinn's wife filed papers in Orange County (CA) Superior Court seaking a divorce, citing "irreconcilable differences".


References

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  5. "Straits Times report".
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  8. ^ "PSB Certification". PSB. Retrieved May 29 2007. {{cite web}}: Check date values in: |accessdate= (help); Unknown parameter |dateformat= ignored (help)
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  33. Taken from http://www.chc.org.sg/harvesttimes/default.asp
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  38. "Other places of worship slash out too". Electric New Paper. 2005-08-29. By Skye Tan
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  41. "Church to co-own Suntec". Straits Times. 2010-03-07.
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  44. http://news.asiaone.com/News/the%2BStraits%2BTimes/Story/A1Story20100320-205694.html Charity commissioner questions City Harvest. Mar 20th, 2010
  45. http://www.temasekreview.com/2010/03/24/city-harvest-church-continues-to-come-under-fire-from-skeptical-singaporeans-on-st-forum-over-its-purchase-of-suntec-stake City Harvest Church continues to come under fire from skeptical Singaporeans on ST Forum over its purchase of Suntec stake. Mar 24th, 2010
  46. http://www.channelnewsasia.com/stories/singaporelocalnews/view/1047863/1/.html City Harvest Church responds to questions over non-disclosure of Suntec deal. April 4th, 2010.
  47. http://www.chc.org.sg/harvesttimes/ht_25/ht_25_03.asp
  48. http://www.chc.org.sg/eng/church/church_eventsCal.php?YRID=2007
  49. http://www.chc.org.sg/citynews/?p=7980
  50. http://www.imdb.com/title/tt0447686/
  51. http://transcripts.cnn.com/TRANSCRIPTS/0104/15/sm.13.html
  52. http://query.nytimes.com/gst/fullpage.html?res=9F0CEFDE1131F936A25757C0A9679C8B63&sec=&spon=&pagewanted=print
  53. http://www.ministrywatch.com/mw2.1/pdf/MWDA_053105_BennyHinn.pdf
  54. http://www.apologeticsindex.org/h01.html
  55. http://www.cbc.ca/fifth/main_miracles.html#bio
  56. http://www.cbc.ca/fifth/main_miracles.html#bio
  57. http://web.archive.org/web/20070604203321/http://www.bennyhinn.org/external/pdf/dove_one_brochure.pdf
  58. http://cbs2.com/local/benny.hinn.televangelist.2.1503860.html

See also

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