Archbishop Emeritus Nicholas Chia, Singapore’s first local Archbishop, dies at 86

SINGAPORE: Archbishop Emeritus Nicholas Chia, the first Singapore-born priest to be appointed Archbishop of Singapore, passed away at the age of 86 on Tuesday, 17 December.

His death was announced by Archbishop William Goh in a Facebook post on Tuesday night.

According to Archbishop Goh, Archbishop Emeritus Chia passed away peacefully that evening at St Theresa’s Home.

“Let us pray for the repose of his soul. May perpetual light shine upon him and may he rest in peace,” he wrote.

Funeral arrangements and details for the public to pay their respects will be announced in due course.

Earlier that afternoon, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore shared on Facebook that Archbishop Emeritus Chia was critically ill and requested prayers for him and those caring for him.

Prime Minister Lawrence Wong paid tribute to Archbishop Emeritus Chia in a Facebook post, expressing “deep sadness” at his passing.

The Prime Minister conveyed his condolences to the Catholic community, describing Archbishop Emeritus Chia as a “devoted shepherd and steadfast pillar.”

He further noted, “His unwavering faith, humility, and compassion enriched many lives.”

From humble beginnings to historic leadership in Singapore’s Catholic Church

Nicholas Chia made history in the local Catholic community as the first Singapore-born priest to be appointed Archbishop of Singapore.

Born on 8 April 1938, Nicholas Chia grew up in a staunch Catholic family in Hougang, Singapore, living a “simple but happy” life.

Influenced by Father Francis Chan and Brother Noel, his priestly vocation was nurtured through his upbringing, education at Holy Innocents’ English School, and active participation in church life.

He assumed the Archbishop role on 7 October 2001, serving for nearly 12 years before stepping down on 18 May 2013, as recorded by the Archdiocese.

Archbishop Emeritus Chia’s journey of service began even earlier when he was ordained a priest in January 1964 at the age of 25. Over six decades of ministry, he became a prominent figure of faith and leadership.

His later years were marked by a health challenge following a fall in February 2014 at Punggol Park, where he was found unconscious.

He suffered head injuries, including a blood clot. After months in the hospital, he was transferred to St Theresa’s Home, where he continued his recovery and remained until his passing.

During his golden jubilee celebration Mass in 2014, Archbishop Goh reflected on Archbishop Emeritus Chia’s devotion to serving others, particularly the elderly, poor, and needy.

His acts of kindness were not limited to the church community, as he was known to provide financial assistance to strangers who sought help, visit the sick, and participate in overseas mission trips.

Archbishop Emeritus Chia’s legacy as a compassionate and steadfast spiritual leader is widely recognised. His tenure as Archbishop of Singapore left a lasting impact on the Catholic community and beyond.