#OneNationTogether—52nd Year National Day Parade (NDP)

Aug 9, 2017 marks Singapore’s 52^nd year of independence. On this day, Singapore held its annual National Day Parade (NDP) to celebrate it’s nation’s birthday. This year, the parade was held at Marina Bay Floating Platform, under the theme of ‘#OneNationTogether’. ¹⁾

‘One Nation’ is to remind Singaporeans that regardless of origin and background, they belong as one people and one nation. It encourages Singaporeans to harness their diversity and to leave no one behind, as they strive towards an even brighter future. ²⁾

‘Together’ emphasises the importance of unity in times of uncertainty and challenges ahead. It also represents a call for all Singaporeans to overcome the odds together. ³⁾

2017 also marks 50 years of National Service in Singapore’s national defence force. This year’s NDP celebrations also pays tribute to the generations of Singaporeans who have defended Singapore’s peace and security. ⁴⁾ United as one people and one nation, all citizens were filled with the spirit of patriotism to honour and reaffirm their loyalty to the country.

NDP 2017 Logo–Four Hands Interlocked in Unity and Strength

This year’s NDP logo features four hands clasped and interlocked with each other in unity. This was inspired by the image of Singapore’ first ten-dollar note launched in 1967. ⁵⁾

The intertwined hands symbolise Singaporeans, from all walks of life, setting aside their differences, and coming together with the conviction of building a better Singapore of tomorrow. It also reflects the important role that racial harmony has played in Singapore’s 52 years of nation building. ⁶⁾

Let’s Keep the Singapore We Love Clean

The World Mission Society Church of God Singapore (SGWMSCOG) once again worked in partnership with the Public Hygiene Council (PHC) for a clean-up campaign during the NDP. This was a continuation of the successful collaboration from previous volunteer service efforts.

The SGWMSCOG volunteers gathered at one of Singapore’s iconic landmarks—Gardens by the Bay for a short briefing. Donning yellow vests with a lanyard tag that says “Let’s be kind and keep clean”, the volunteers approached the people in the vicinity and gave them gentle reminders to bin their trash. To reward the people for their efforts, the volunteers also distributed gifts such as coasters, giant paper clips, and foldable fans.

At the end of the parade, the volunteers also went about to pick up the trash that was left behind. One of the main media channels in Singapore—Channel 8, recognised the efforts of the SGWMSCOG volunteers and interviewed them.

“I am so proud to be part of the WMSCOG member! I give thanks to Father and Mother for allowing us to be part of this event which even the media interviewed us! Happy birthday Singapore!” exclaimed a very excited volunteer, Jasmine Lim, 23.

The theme of the event was very close to the volunteers’ hearts as Heavenly Mother emphasises the importance of unity to the Church of God members. Though the volunteers come from very diverse backgrounds, they are one in mind to follow this teaching. As the volunteers celebrate the NDP together under the theme of “#OneNationTogether”, they ruminated once again on how precious they are as one family.