CHRISTIANS IN SINGAPORE : COPING WITH A CHANGING URBAN SOCIETY

Abstract

The religious scene in Singapore is a fascinating topic, not only for its myriad forms, but also for its dynamic nature. Unfortunately, research into this area has not been given the priority it deserves. This study focuses on Christians, in particular, young Catholic and Protestant graduates. It explores their perception of Christianity in society and charts the changes in their behaviour. The changes in behaviour and perception are justified both by necessity as well as by the graduates' own reasoning. In spite of this, the coherence of the Christian faith is kept intact. The motivation to adopt changes stems precisely from the desire to preserve the cognitive reality of Christianity amidst changes taking place. The Christian located within a dynamic world needs to find a new balance between his or her social and spiritual life. There is a search for a holistic organisation principle using Christianity. This study will examine the acco1nmodations between belief and reality made by graduate Christians in Singapore.