As the curtains prepare to rise, the youths of My Saviour’s Church (MSC) are not just putting on a stage play; they are bringing to life a story of a father’s steadfast love for a new generation.
Over the past 45 years, MSC has grown deep roots along Prince Charles Crescent in the Alexandra region, serving residents and migrant workers.
For the Good Friday Service 2026 on April 3, MSC’s Creative Arts Ministry, primarily consisting of youths, is staging a play titled Priceless Embrace.
Inspired by the Parable of the Prodigal Son, the play frames the timeless, famous story Jesus told about a wayward son who squanders his inheritance and then returns home to a joyous, forgiving father. It showcases the encounter between Jesus and the religious leaders of his time.
For 22-year-old full-time national serviceman Delvyn Jayden, the upcoming play is a major milestone. After nine years of serving on the props team of MSC’s Creative Arts Ministry, he now steps into the spotlight to play the lead role as the wayward young man of the parable.
Taking on such an emotionally heavy role has made Mr Devlyn reflect on his need for forgiveness, making his performance more authentic.
Acting alongside him is an autism coach, Joanna Cara Fakrudin, 28, making her stage debut. She plays a character that grapples with being judged and cast aside, navigating heavy themes of rejection, joining a diverse ensemble that includes Mary Magdalene and a transformed Tax Collector.
While acting is a new challenge for her, the play’s message of making amends and finding renewed life hits close to home, Ms Joanna noted.
To ensure authentic portrayals, the directing team broke down the biblical text, relating emotions to real-life experiences, and even incorporated method acting.
“It can be emotionally and physically draining, but that’s when we pray and seek god’s strength and help,” shared Winson Eugene, 38, a theology student.
Whilst off-stage, Ms Jacintha Shalome, 32, a children’s programme executive, leads the befriending team. She has been meticulously designing welcome packs so every first-time guest feels valued the moment they arrive.
To the church’s leadership, these combined efforts represent a living commitment to faith.
“Each generation at My Saviour’s passionately upholds this dedication by actively engaging with the community,” said Reverend Charles Tewer Sahayam, Vicar of MSC.
Young adults like Mr Delvyn, Ms Joanna, and Ms Jacintha are demonstrating what it truly means to live out their values by serving and reaching out to those in need, Rev Charles added.
