New Creation Church Scores a Shopping‑Mall Victory
When scandal‑free Singapore’s New Creation Church popped up a news headline on Wednesday (Nov 20), it wasn’t just the usual “church‑theology” banter. The church announced that its business arm, Rock Productions, just sealed a $296 million deal for the entire Star Vista mall—all to make sure the place stays safe for the church’s religious activities.
Why a Mall? A Quick Back‑story
- Up until now, New Creation only owned the Star Performing Arts Centre (PAC), a concert venue inside the mall that doubles as a worship hall.
- The move came after the church learned that former owner CapitaLand was shopping around for buyers.
- By snapping up the property through its front‑office, the church guards against a future owner who might not be so “church‑friendly.”
What the Church is All About
- Roots & Rebirth
Joseph Prince, born to a Sikh priest and a Chinese mother in Singapore, embraced Christianity at 12. In 1983 the local church couldn’t stand their “open worship” and told them to go. So, along with a handful of friends, they started New Creation in a tiny flat on Holland Road. By 1984, they formally registered with the Registrar of Societies. Pope? No, just Pastor Prince, as his fans call him. - From 150 to 31,000
With a message about grace and unconditional love, the congregation exploded. While it had just 150 members in 1990, today the numbers top 31,000—hence the need for an even bigger venue. - Going Global
The charismatic leader wrote at least 20 books and hosts a religious TV show that fans can catch in 200+ countries, including the US, Israel, South Korea, and Indonesia. - Riches & Rumours
A 2014 feature on the entertainment website “Richest Lifestyle” named him the 10th richest pastor worldwide, claiming a net worth of US$5 million and a salary of $550,000 a year. New Creation brushed this off as unverifiable gossip, noting that Pastor Prince stopped drawing a salary from the church in 2009 and that his actual fortune is “substantially lower.” - Other Income Strategies?
(Details on these remain a bit hidden, but one can bet a savvy pastor has a few sources beyond sermons.)
With the whole of Star Vista under its wing, New Creation is set to keep its worship services uninterrupted—no surprises from new landlords, and no more “open‑worship” banquets in a different place.
Joseph Prince: Beyond the Pastor’s Paycheck
He might not receive a monthly salary from New Creation Church, but that’s just the tip of the iceberg for Mr Prince’s earnings.
Front‑Row TV Stardom
Across the Atlantic, Destined to Reign has been airing daily on networks like ABC Family. The show is produced by Joseph Prince Ministries, an independent non‑profit headquartered in the U.S., and it’s a pure gold mine for the senior pastor.
Questions Raised by Tax Papers
- A 2012 UK tax filing revealed that the ministry pocketed US$1.7 million that year — yet none of that gold went straight into Mr Prince’s bank account, even though he’s listed as president.
- Sources point to overseas speaking gigs, book royalties (his bestseller The Power of Right Believing reached No. 2 on the NYT list), and a raft of special editions, translations, CDs and DVDs that all pile on the royalties.
New Creation’s Donation Flame
In 2018, New Creation blew a staggering US$122 million into a single campaign, making it the country’s second‑ranked fundraiser that year, just behind the National University of Singapore.
- Other religious heavyweights like City Harvest Church, Kwan Im Thong Hood Cho Temple and Faith Community Baptist Church were also in the top ten.
Epic Fund‑Raising Feats
Looking back, the megachurch has pulled off some jaw‑dropping fundraising records:
- In April 2008, they smashed a single‑day record with US$18 million.
- Then in February 2009, the figure crept up to US$18.8 million, and in August 2010 it topped US$21.1 million.
- Fast forward to February 2016, the mega‑church announced that it had finally paid off the US$500 million Star Performing Arts Centre, thanks to the voluntary giving of its congregation.
Where’s the Money Going?
Beyond the Star Performing Arts Centre, New Creation also manages high‑profile venues like the Marina Bay Sands Ballrooms and Cathay Cineplex Causeway Point. How exactly did they cover the cost of the Star Vista remains a mystery—one that even tax records seem shy about answering.
In Short
So while Joseph Prince may not draw a formal salary from the church, he’s clearly not a man in the gutter. Between TV, books, speaking tours, the endless stream of royalties and the church’s monumental fundraising prowess, his cash flow looks pretty robust. And if you’re wondering where all that money goes, it’s safe to say the church’s coffers are probably never empty.
The Star Performing Arts Centre: A Star‑Lit Hub in The Star Vista
Picture this: a shiny, brand‑new performing arts venue tucked into the heart of The Star Vista, brought to life by the powerhouses CapitaLand and New Creation’s Rock Productions. Think of it as a concert pad for global hits and a cozy spot for Sunday hymns.
What’s on the Menu?
- Ed Sheeran’s “Perfect” moments – because anyone who has ever cared about a guitar‑strummed ballad knows what I mean.
- Local bands turning the local scene into a roaring, worldwide rave.
- New Creation’s own Rock Productions choir belting out church songs every Sunday AND once mid‑week.
Design‑by‑Design
Designed by the duo Artec Consultants and Bromberg, it’s not just a place to listen; it’s a sonic playground. The acoustics are fine‑tuned to make every note feel like a hug.
Ten Reasons to Love It
- Modern architecture with a pop‑of‑art vibe.
- CapitaLand’s luxury touch ensuring every concert feels like an elite night out.
- Rock Productions’ mission to bring music to every corner of the city.
- Versatile use: concerts, church services, & midnight studio jams.
- Location: right in the buzzing hub of The Star Vista.
- Convenient transport for fans and patients alike.
- Energy‑efficient design for a greener planet.
- State‑of‑the‑art lighting that turns you into a visual junkie.
- Easy backstage logistics for the whizz‑banging performers.
- Feel like a VIP while staying budget‑friendly.
Bottom line? Whether you’re dancing to a chart‑topper or skipping church with a heartbeat, The Star Performing Arts Centre is where music meets its match. Grab a ticket, bring your friends, and let the rhythm take the wheel.
New Creation Steps In With Mall Takeover
What’s the New Deal?
New Creation has just closed the deal on the remaining portion of a popular mall, adding the 2012‑opened retail hub to its portfolio. With the purchase, the company now owns the entire shopping space—no more half‑ownership headaches.
Who’s Hanging Out Here?
- Beauty in the Pot – Tonic drinks and tasty broths for the health‑conscious crowd.
- LeNu – A trendy spot for fashion lovers.
- Canton Paradise Teahouse – A fragrant sanctuary where tea tastes as good as the company slogan.
- RedMan by Phoon Huat – Your go‑to for fiery flavors and good vibes.
- Swee Lee – Sweet treats that make you feel like a kid again.
- Cold Storage – Because we all need a place to keep our groceries fresh.
Future Plans & CapitaLand’s Role
New Creation promises to keep the mall’s classic commercial vibe intact while staying true to zoning guidelines. Additionally, they’re exploring a partnership with CapitaLand, giving the seasoned developer a chance to continue running day‑to‑day operations.
Originally published in The Straits Times. Reproduction requires permission.