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Interview with Rev David Lim
Sep 2014

Synod: How did you get involved with the Presbyterian Community Services?

David Lim (DL): My involvement with the Presbyterian Community Services (PCS) started with an invitation by Elder Laurence Wee to be part of the PCS Resource Panel in 2002. Subsequently, I was invited to be on the PCS Executive Committee in 2004. It was only in 2011 that I was asked by the Nomination Committee to join PCS full-time on 2 Jan 2012.

Synod: How has PCS changed according to the change in our Society?

DL: In recent years, the government has taken a heightened focus to address the changing social landscape of our society. Amongst the many issues faced by Singaporeans, Singapore has one of the fastest ageing populations in the world. By 2030, about one out of five Singaporeans will be 65 years old and above. (Population Trends 2011, Department of Statistics, Singapore)

With an ageing population, health issues and healthcare will need greater attention. Prevention of chronic diseases through a healthier lifestyle and better healthcare will have to be stepped up. Accessibility and availability of social and healthcare services will have to be increased. This ageing issue will not just affect the old but will stress the care givers, families and even the community.

Dual income families are facing the physical and emotional strain of balancing between work and family needs. In view of the multi-generational needs in Singapore, PCS has an important role. Over a span of 40 years, PCS has grown in the number and type of services to stay relevant and effective, in order to meet the varied needs of the community.

For PCS to better impact the community, we need to work in partnership with the various Presbyterian churches, through shared resources, to provide greater accessibility and availability of quality services to meet the multi-generational needs.

Synod: Now that you have switched role, what difference does it make?

DL: The Gospel has to be made relevant to the people and I am convinced that the love of Christ Jesus can melt the most hostile heart. As such, touching lives through the good work of community outreach has always been one of my foci in ministry. (Matthew 5:16)

The switched role has now enabled me to do more and witnessed the power of God beyond the church walls.

Synod: Is it difficult to fit into the shoes of Elder Laurence Wee, a veteran in the social service sector?

DL: Indeed, Elder Laurence Wee is a veteran in the social service sector. The wealth of 40 years’ experience in social service, both on the ground and in management, has made him an invaluable figure in the sector.

I will never be able to fit into the shoes of Elder Laurence Wee. However, I am mindful that I have to learn faithfulness in who God wants me to be and do.

Synod: What is your dream?

DL: The day when the “face” of charity and community services is Christ Jesus radiating through the genuine good works of the Christian community; this will be an awe-inspiring dream to be realized.

Synod: Where do you see our community services going in a globalised city state like Singapore?

DL: As a global city state with many foreigners, there is a need to reach out to the international community in our land as well, especially those in need. This is in line with scriptural teaching, “Do not mistreat or oppress a foreigner” (Exodus 22:21) and “… you are to love those who are foreigners”. (Deuteronomy 10:19)

Synod: What can our local congregations do to support PCS?

DL: The local congregations can keep PCS in prayer. We also need to share resources and expertise, working together to better impact the community.

In Matthew 5:14, the call to be the light of the world, like a city on a hill that cannot be hidden; this verse alludes to a collective lighting from a community of households in a city on a hill that can be seen from afar.

Hence, as we work together as a collective light, we can shine more brightly in the community.