The Methodist Fathers Movement (MFM) marked its fifth anniversary on 4 October 2025 at Ang Mo Kio Methodist Church, celebrating five years of faith, growth and impact since its inception on 17 October 2020.
Centred on the theme “Sonship: Journeying to the Heart of the Father”, the celebration brought together fathers, families and church leaders to reflect on the spiritual call to fatherhood grounded in God’s love. The event opened with heartfelt worship led by David Lim, accompanied by Geoffrey Chew on the cajon and Ashvath on the keyboard—a talented neurodivergent child who is currently taking lessons at the Methodist School of Music.
Guest-of-Honour Bishop Philip Lim, Bishop of The Methodist Church in Singapore, delivered a stirring message on intimacy with God the Father. He reminded all that we are God’s adopted children, called to live as sons who walk in freedom and grace. Referring to a new spiritual exodus, Bishop Lim spoke of two movements of grace: deliverance from bondage and the restoration of identity through the Father’s love.
The speakers, who are all Methodist fathers—David Ang, Leong Jenn Yeoong, Asir Samraj, Morgan Zhou and Phua Yee Farn, together with his son Isaac—reflected on how MFM has shaped their faith and family life and ministered to others. Their stories highlighted the transforming power of fatherhood rooted in God’s truth and the call to leave a godly legacy for generations to come.
The celebration also welcomed mothers and children, affirming MFM’s belief that strong families are built on unity, faith and love. It was both a thanksgiving for the past and a renewed commitment to MFM’s mission of building faithful fathers and flourishing homes.
The journey so far
The Methodist Fathers Movement began as part of the OneMCS initiative commemorating 135 years of Methodism in Singapore. Rooted in the Methodist heritage that began in 1885 and inspired by the global fathering movement that emerged in 2009, MFM was founded to strengthen families through intentional, faith-led fatherhood.
Its humble beginnings trace back to a virtual launch on 17 October 2020, presided over by then-Bishop Dr Chong Chin Chung. The purpose was simple yet profound: to inspire fathers to turn their hearts towards their children. That inaugural online gathering drew more than 650 Zoom log-ins and over 700 participants, signalling a deep desire among men to grow as fathers of faith.
From that first event, MFM has blossomed into a vibrant community dedicated to transforming hearts and homes, embodying Bishop Emeritus Chong’s vision when he first declared the birth of the Methodist Fathers Movement.
A growing brotherhood
A defining hallmark of MFM is its network of fathers’ groups that meet regularly to share experiences, pray together and encourage one another as fathers, husbands and sons.
These small groups provide safe and nurturing spaces for honest conversations guided by Scripture and practical wisdom.
Such fellowship fosters spiritual growth and strengthens families, creating ripple effects across churches and communities. Fathers are reminded that they do not walk this journey alone but as brothers in Christ.
MFM’s growth has been guided by the pastoral leadership of Methodist bishops, including Bishop Emeriti Dr Robert Solomon, Dr Wee Boon Hup and Dr Gordon Wong, each affirming that fatherhood is a vital pillar in the holistic ministry of the Church.
MFM conducted a fathering workshop on “Spiritual Conversations and Identity” in Wesley Methodist Church (Cambodia)
Partnering beyond borders
Beyond Singapore, MFM has forged international partnerships with ministries such as Fathers’ School, The World Needs a Father, Family Foundation International and Fatherheart Ministries. It has also conducted fathering workshops overseas, including in Cambodia, extending its impact to families beyond our shores.
These collaborations provide valuable resources and training that help MFM fathers grow in both spiritual maturity and practical leadership. By drawing from global best practices, fathers are equipped to stay rooted in biblical truth while responding to the evolving needs of families in today’s world.
Inclusivity and impact
MFM’s inclusivity is evident in the diversity of its fathers’ groups, which have taken root across churches, schools and residential communities.
Special support is extended to fathers in unique circumstances, including single fathers and those raising children with special needs. These groups cultivate belonging and resilience, helping men find strength and purpose through shared faith and brotherhood.
In just five years, MFM has grown from a fledgling network into a movement of hope, equipping fathers to lead with compassion and conviction while helping families thrive in faith.
Looking ahead
From a virtual beginning in 2020 to a thriving, multi-generational community today, MFM reflects a wider awakening to the truth that fatherhood is a cornerstone of strong families and societies.
The movement continues to expand through online communities, workshops, mentoring programmes, social support networks and shared resources. Emphasising lifelong learning and spiritual growth, MFM seeks to equip fathers to meet the changing demands of family life with wisdom, courage and grace.
Every testimony, gathering and act of service echoes a central truth: when fathers walk closely with God and with one another, families and communities are strengthened from within.
MFM’s fifth anniversary stands as a testament to God’s faithfulness and to the dedication of fathers who have answered his call. It continues to nurture a Christ-centred model of fathering, encouraging men to lead with presence, passion and purpose in their homes.
Through faith, fellowship and partnership, MFM remains a beacon for future generations. Its mission endures: to raise fathers who know their identity as sons of the Heavenly Father and, through that sonship, bless their families, churches and communities.
For more information about MFM, write to methodist.fathers@outlook.com.
Jointly written by Dr David Ang and Dr Morgan Zhou, on behalf of the Core Team of the Methodist Fathers Movement. / Photos courtesy of Methodist Fathers Movement
