Rev Anthony Loh, newly appointed Bishop of the Lutheran Church in Singapore (LCS), never imagined stepping into this role. Yet, from his early days in a Malaysian town shaped by tin mining to now leading an entire church body, his life story is a powerful testament to God’s unexpected calling and unwavering faithfulness. Anthony grew […]

Rev Anthony Loh, newly appointed Bishop of the Lutheran Church in Singapore (LCS), never imagined stepping into this role. Yet, from his early days in a Malaysian town shaped by tin mining to now leading an entire church body, his life story is a powerful testament to God’s unexpected calling and unwavering faithfulness.

Anthony grew up in Kampar, a town near Ipoh in Perak, Malaysia. Though his parents were not believers, an aunt introduced him to church at a young age. One particular Christmas service captured his heart and drew him into the life of the church. As he grew, the Methodist Youth Fellowship and the Boys’ Brigade played vital roles in his spiritual formation. These ministries gave him a space to serve, to lead, and ultimately, to surrender his life to Jesus by the age of 15.

In 1989, Anthony moved to Singapore for work and began attending Jurong Christian Church (JCC), where he soon started serving in the youth ministry. Despite a demanding job, he felt a strong calling to theological training and enrolled at Singapore Bible College (SBC) in 1993. It was a deeply formative season, enriched by the wisdom of humble, learned lecturers and the close bonds formed with fellow students. He graduated in 1997 with a degree in theology.

The following year, Anthony married Chen Meiling, a missionary-hearted woman from Taiwan. Together, they served in Campus Crusade for Christ (Cru), with Anthony ministering at the National University of Singapore for four years. The experience, shaped by fervent prayer and spiritual leadership, left a lasting impact. In 2002, Anthony returned to JCC as youth pastor, continuing to invest in the next generation.

His years at JCC were marked by mentorship from many seasoned pastors. He also worked closely with leaders in the Chinese section and the support and example of these faithful shepherds deeply shaped his approach to ministry and life.

Reflecting on his own leadership philosophy, Anthony describes it simply: Play hard, work hard, pray hard. He believes that ministry should be joyful, not burdensome. An environment that draws others to experience God’s presence and mission. His vision is to cultivate a space within the LCS Executive Council where prayer is foundational, excellence is pursued, and fellowship is rich. “Ministry is a joy,” he says. “Let us serve the Lord with gladness, and let that joy inspire others to join in His mission.”

When nominated as Bishop, Anthony initially declined, believing others were more suitable. But through prayer, his heart shifted from resistance to willingness. “To my surprise,” he recalls, “I became the only candidate nominated. I accepted with a deep sense of privilege, and with fear and trembling, as I step into the big shoes of those who came before me.”

The role of Bishop carries more than spiritual leadership. It also involves administration, public representation, and being the voice of the church in the wider community. For Anthony, the most important grounding in all this is remembering that, first and foremost, he is a child of God.

“A bishop is, first and foremost, human,” he says. “Whether bishop, pastor, or layperson, we are all called to walk with and listen to the Holy Spirit. The Bible remains our lifeline. Our identity in Christ comes before any role or title we carry.”

He believes a heart that continues to learn is essential. “The moment we stop learning, pride creeps in, and with pride comes stagnation. But when we remain teachable, we remain fruitful.”

Looking ahead, Bishop Loh recognises the many challenges facing LCS: the retirement of pastors, aging congregations, declining offerings, younger members leaving the church, and the looming issue of land lease renewals. These are not unique to LCS but reflect the broader landscape for churches across Singapore.

His first priority as Bishop is to connect personally with leaders and council members across all five LCS congregations to understand their context and support them meaningfully.

At a personal level, what Anthony looks forward to most is seeking God with others in this new season, together longing for a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. His desire is not just to lead but to walk faithfully in the divine plan before Christ returns. “At the end of the day,” he says, “it’s all about Him. His name and His glory.”

“Loving God and loving people. This is the essence of both the Great Commandment and the Great Commission. Let us not reduce it to a ‘Great Convenience.’ We must leave behind a biblical and spiritual legacy for the next generation. Not just with words, but through years of intentional modelling.”

As he steps into this new chapter, Bishop Anthony Loh is not seeking titles or recognition. He’s simply answering the call to serve faithfully, lead humbly, and finish the race well.

Many of our partner churches are working in new territory for the kingdom of God; therefore, spiritual attack is their everyday reality. As a member of a congregation, school, or family, or a couple or individual, you are invited to commit to praying for our partners in mission. For regular prayer point updates, go to www.lca.org.au/international-mission/act-now/pray

Read more stories about our partner church in Singapore at https://www.lcamission.org.au/category/stories/international-partners/singapore/