Secular Assembly – Jan 2025

27 January 2025 by

On 25-Jan-2025, our Secular Assembly offered an inspiring mix of creativity, personal growth, and collective sharing. The event kicked off on a high note as everyone united in singing “Firework” by Katy Perry, setting an upbeat and celebratory atmosphere right from the start.

Our highlight speaker, Bertram, then took the stage to share his journey as a coach. With enthusiasm and authenticity, he detailed the evolution of his career and introduced his innovative AI Ikigai webapp—a tool designed to help individuals uncover their life’s purpose. The interactive demo invited the audience to try the app firsthand, sparking engaging discussions about the blend of technology and personal development.

The session continued with heartfelt personal stories from our community. Koi Hin recounted his experiences from a personal retreat, sharing valuable insights on balancing mind, body, and spirit. His reflections resonated deeply with many, encouraging us all to embrace holistic well-being. Adding another layer to the tapestry of experiences, Lionel also shared his personal journey. His story, rich with challenges overcome and transformative insights gained, provided a unique perspective that underscored the power of resilience and self-discovery.

Overall, the Secular Assembly was a celebration of individual narratives woven together by a shared commitment to growth and community support. The day reminded us that every personal story enriches our collective journey, inspiring us to keep exploring new paths towards a more fulfilled and balanced life.

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Conversation on Humanism: Irreligiosity and Mental Health

27 January 2025 by

On 25-Jan-2025, we hosted an insightful session as part of our Conversation on Humanism series on Irreligiosity and Mental Health.

This engaging discussion explored the intersection of secular values and mental well-being, addressing key questions like: How does irreligiosity influence mental health, and how can we, as humanists, foster resilience and support?

Key Highlights

Understanding Humanism and Mental Health:

The session began with a broad exploration of humanism, emphasizing its values of compassion, reason, and community. Participants discussed how these principles shape mental well-being in secular contexts.

Insights from Mental Health Statistics and Research:

We delved into local mental health statistics, including findings from the Institute for Health Metrics and Sofia Wellness Clinic, highlighting the growing challenges faced by Singaporeans.

Studies on the relationship between religion and mental health, such as the Straits Times report, were discussed alongside the unique experiences of irreligious individuals.

Debunking Stereotypes:

There is a common misconception that irreligious individuals lack purpose or face higher rates of depression and suicide simply because they don’t adhere to a faith community. However, mental health is influenced by a variety of factors genetics, environment, social support, and personal life experiences rather than religious affiliation alone.

Irreligious people, like those with a religion, can find meaning in family, friendships, personal goals, or ethical and humanitarian values. This highlights that a lack of religious belief does not inherently lead to poor mental health; well-being is shaped by complex, multifaceted influences.

Interactive Activity:

An engaging session on values and coping mechanisms encouraged participants to reflect on their personal approaches to mental health and how their values shape their resilience.

A Humanist Approach

We discussed the “three-prong approach” to mental health which emphasises a holistic framework. It involves three key dimensions:

1. Psychological: Humanism and Mental Well-being

Focuses on fostering emotional resilience and self-awareness through reason, critical thinking, and evidence-based practices like journaling, mindfulness and therapy to build a supportive communities were shared as effective tools for maintaining mental well-being.

2. Existential: Building Meaning and Purpose

Humanists seek answers to life’s big questions—such as existence, morality, and the afterlife—through reason, critical thinking, and shared human experience rather than doctrine. They value personal growth, embracing evolving perspectives shaped by curiosity, compassion, and fairness.Meaning is often found in relationships, creativity, scientific exploration, and contributions to society. Whether through deep personal connections, artistic expression, activism, or altruism, humanists recognize that purpose is self-created and enriched by the positive impact we have on others and the world around us.

3. Social: Supportive Community

Providing a safe and inclusive spaces where irreligious individuals can openly share beliefs, experiences, and support. Rooted in empathy, reason, and respect for autonomy, these communities help combat isolation and foster a sense of belonging.Beyond social connections,  we should promote secular mental health initiatives, including access to non-religious therapists, peer support groups, and evidence-based well-being programs. By encouraging open dialogue and resilience, these efforts ensure that individuals can seek help and thrive without religious judgment.

The session concluded with an open discussion and a call to action, acknowledging that Compassion is at the heart of building strong, supportive secular and humanist communities. By fostering meaningful connections, we create inclusive spaces where individuals feel valued and understood. We encourage everyone to seek support when needed and extend kindness to those around them, reinforcing the humanist commitment to mutual care, empathy, and shared well-being.

A quote by Robert G. Ingersoll beautifully captured the essence of the evening: “Happiness is the only good. The time to be happy is now. The place to be happy is here.”

We’re grateful to everyone who joined us for this meaningful conversation. Stay tuned for updates on upcoming events, including the next session in the Conversation on Humanism Series!

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HSS Socials: Movie and Game Night

25 January 2025 by

On 24-Jan-2025, a member initiated a movie and game night, and it was a resounding success! The event brought together a delightful mix of new faces and long-time members, some of whom we were thrilled to welcome back after a long absence. It was heartwarming to see everyone reconnecting and enjoying each other’s company in a relaxed, fun-filled atmosphere.

The evening kicked off with games—many of us learned how to play mahjong and sharpened our skills at pool. Laughter and cheers filled the room as participants discovered hidden talents or simply enjoyed the camaraderie.

After the games, we gathered for the feature movie of the night, Heretic, which did not disappoint! Hugh Grant’s chilling portrayal of a psychopath kept us all on edge, while the unexpected plot twists had the group collectively gasping with “aahs” and “oohs.” It was refreshing to share the thrill of such a gripping film together as a community.

Of course, no movie night would be complete without food, and we indulged in a feast of pizza and KFC, perfectly complementing the electrifying atmosphere. Sharing a meal while engaging in lively post-movie discussions made the night even more enjoyable.

This event marked our first movie and game night, but it’s certainly not the last! The success of the evening reminded us how vital and rejuvenating it is to gather as a community, share experiences, and create lasting memories.

Thank you to everyone who attended and made the night so special. We look forward to seeing you at our next event! 

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Hanging Out with Humanists Updates

15 January 2025 by

These are updates from Hanging Out with Humanists from Sep 2024 to Jan 2025, starting from the most recent.

Jan 2025

Eugene’s Rare Appearance and The Case of the Empty Plates!

On 04-Jan-2025, our hangout session got a delightful twist when our revered veteran, Eugene, graced us with his presence. Although he pops in only once in a blue moon, when he does, his wise words and cheerful vibes remind us that our society is on the right track.

Joining our usual merry band—and a few eager newcomers—everyone gathered for an evening of hearty laughs, thoughtful advice, and a touch of mystery. Speaking of mystery, if you took a peek at the group photo and wondered where everyone went, fear not! The empty plates on display are not evidence of a ghost town but a clever nod to our camera-shy members, who prefer to let the plates (and their appetites) do all the talking.

A big shout-out to Eugene for the nuggets of wisdom and to everyone who made this session unforgettable. Until next time—keep the empty plates ready for more fun and unexpected appearances!

Dec 2024

December was our last hanging out session of the year at Han’s Union in Springleaf, and it was a pleasure to welcome several new faces to our circle. As always, the conversation was delightfully loud and full of laughter — just the way we like it! The energy in the room was tangible, and it was wonderful to see newcomers quickly feel at home among us.

We’ll continue to make Han’s Union our go-to hangout spot for as long as they’ll have us. It is also in a convenient location, close to the MRT and bus stations, making it easy for anyone to pop by without fuss. On top of that, the food there is both tasty and reasonably priced, and the friendly staff often let us claim our usual corner to ourselves. It’s the perfect backdrop for our lively discussions and good-natured banter.

If you haven’t joined any of our socials yet, we’d love to see you at our next gathering. Bring your curiosity, your sense of humor, and be ready for some engaging conversations with fellow humanists. We’re always eager to meet new people and share ideas in a fun, relaxed atmosphere!

Nov 2024

We had our regular crew plus two new faces, who were brave enough to join us. As always, the night was a perfect mix of laughs, chatter, and just enough decorum to remind us we’re not a stand-up comedy club… yet!

Oct 2024

We welcomed our regulars alongside four new guests, including two ladies – one an expat opera singer, who surprised us with a beautiful rendition of The Name of the Rose theme. True to our lively spirit, the night was filled with laughter and good company, as usual, but with that signature dose of respect for all!

Sep 2024

September’s Hanging Out with Humanists session was a lively gathering as always, with the usual crowd joined by two new faces. One was a familiar friend of HSS, resurfacing after a two-year hiatus, and the other was a newcomer curious to learn more about who we are and what we do. We spent some time explaining our society’s work and values to her.

As always, the chatter was loud and enthusiastic, with our signature pink T-shirt draped over a chair, signaling our presence. The discussions covered the conference that was held in August with a briefing for those who couldn’t make it, and a buzz of excitement around our Anniversary and Appreciation Dinner on 26-Oct-2024. Look out for this announcement!

The topic of the night? The Pope’s visit—yes, even Humanists get excited about that! Meanwhile, another group engaged in a serious debate about the truth: the ultimate truth versus the perceived truth.

It was another memorable evening of connection, conversation, and, of course, a lot of laughter.

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Secular Assembly – Dec 2024

28 December 2024 by

Our last event of the month was the lively Secular Assembly held at HDG on 28 Dec 2024, complete with an optional 45-minute excursion through the HDG gallery. For those who arrived early or simply wanted to explore, the gallery tour offered a fascinating look at the venue’s history, exhibits, and art pieces that beautifully complemented the spirit of our gathering.

Year-in-Review Reflection
After the gallery excursion, our co-founder and Secular Assembly Programme Director, Dan Thio, led a guided reflection session on three key areas: health, relationships, and meaningful work or passions. Through a series of thoughtful prompts, participants took a moment to identify their personal achievements, challenges, and the valuable lessons they learned over the course of the year. This introspective exercise allowed everyone to connect more deeply with themselves and to consider how they might carry these insights into the new year.

Sing-Along Session
Rounding out the evening was a sing-along led by our enthusiastic member, Lava. We sang two tunes that captured both the festive mood and the sense of togetherness at this time of year:

• Christmas Is a Time to Say I Love You

• Auld Lang Syne

Voices rose in unison, bringing a heartwarming close to our December events. Whether you joined for the gallery tour, the reflection, or simply for the good company, we appreciate everyone who made this final Secular Assembly a memorable one! We look forward to welcoming you at future gatherings as we continue to foster community, personal growth, and humanist values.

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A Celebration of Life – Nov/Dec 2024

23 December 2024 by

29 Nov 2024

We hosted our very first Celebration of Life gathering, a heartfelt event dedicated to embracing life’s precious moments. This was a time to celebrate milestones, honor the inspiring legacies of others, and revel in the sheer joy of being alive. Together, we celebrated the birthdays of Yew Hwee Hong, Ashwini, and Lava, creating a vibrant atmosphere filled with gratitude and camaraderie. The gathering was a meaningful pause to reflect on life’s beauty and the connections that make it so special. Here’s to many more such moments of shared happiness!

22 Dec 2024

To close out the year on a joyful note, we held our final Celebration of Life meetup, honoring the moments that make life extraordinary—birthdays, the memory of inspiring individuals, or simply the everyday joy of being alive. This time, it was a Mookata Night at Phuket Town Mookata in Ang Mo Kio on 22 Dec 2024, and it couldn’t have been more fun!

Great Food and Great Company
We indulged in a sizzling spread of delicious and reasonably priced Mookata, sharing laughs, stories, and the warmth of a close-knit community. New friends and familiar faces came together around the table, making it a truly memorable evening.

A Special Birthday Celebration
Amid the clinking of cutlery and lively banter, we also had the pleasure of celebrating NeoSree’s birthday, complete with a birthday cake. Everyone joined in with well-wishes, turning the night into a heartwarming blend of celebration and camaraderie.

It was the perfect way to wrap up the year, reflecting on life’s precious moments and cherishing them together. Here’s to many more meetups filled with shared meals, laughter, and collective gratitude for life’s gifts! 

And if you find yourself with no one to celebrate your birthday or achievements, don’t worry—reach out to us, and we’ll celebrate with you!

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Humanist Cafe Dec 2024 – Navigating relationships across different beliefs and faiths

14 December 2024 by

Our final Humanist Cafe of 2024 focused on a theme that resonates with many of us: how to nurture and sustain relationships when beliefs and faiths differ. It was a warm, enlightening session where participants openly shared their personal stories and insights.

One participant, for instance, spoke candidly about her experience marrying into a different cultural and religious background—a journey that began with “culture shock” due to various traditional beliefs and superstitions she wasn’t familiar with. When asked, “Why did you decide to marry this person?” her response highlighted the importance of character over creed:

“He was humble and genuinely caring toward others. That was what caught my attention.”

Their relationship blossomed from a simple friendship into love, and eventually led to marriage. Now, more than 25 years later, she has learned to adapt and accommodate her partner’s cultural practices and religious customs. She attributes her flexibility and open-mindedness to humanist values, which encourage empathy, respect, and an acceptance of diversity.

This moving story underlined our discussion about the importance of focusing on shared humanity rather than differences in beliefs. By embracing humanist ideals, we can broaden our perspectives, build deeper connections, and find harmony in even the most diverse environments.

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Hiking with Humanists at Kent Ridge Park & Alexandra Park

8 December 2024 by

We recently embarked on a refreshing morning hike through the lush greenery of Kent Ridge Park and explored the iconic black-and-white bungalows of Alexandra Park. The day began with a gentle climb and panoramic city views, offering a glimpse into Singapore’s wartime past. Along the way, lively conversations flowed—true to the spirit of any Humanist event!

Here’s a lovely note we received from one of our participants:

“Thanks for leading such an enjoyable walk last Saturday, 7th December 2024. I appreciated the warm welcome from all those I walked with and talked to over brunch at the hawker market. It was a really interesting route and for a lover of vernacular architecture, the black-and-white bungalows were a real bonus!”

Strolling through Alexandra Park, we soaked in the unique colonial charm of these historic homes. By the end of the hike, everyone left with a deeper appreciation for Singapore’s green spaces and our architectural heritage—and, of course, plenty of happy memories and new connections.

If you missed out this time, don’t worry—more adventures await! We look forward to seeing you at our next event for more exploration, camaraderie, and the warm humanist spirit.

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Secular Assembly – Nov 2024

30 November 2024 by
Photo of Assembly participants taking part in the HDG gallery tour, Sep 2024

The Secular Assembly (30 Nov 2024) was a vibrant mix of music, learning, and inspiration. The session kicked off with Lava leading us in two spirited sing-alongs, “Beautiful Sunday” and John Lennon’s iconic “Imagine.” The uplifting melodies set the perfect tone, reminding us of the simple joys and shared humanity that bring us together.

The highlight of the assembly was a thought-provoking sharing session by Adrian Chia, a dedicated humanist, futurist, and transhumanist, as well as a longtime volunteer and member of our society. Adrian, deeply passionate about Healthy Longevity, offered insights into this fascinating field. He discussed its significance in today’s world and shared practical tips to help optimize our health and well-being.

Adrian’s talk covered recent research and key factors influencing longevity, sparking engaging conversations among attendees. His expertise and enthusiasm left everyone inspired to reflect on the future of health and how small changes can lead to big outcomes.

With music, wisdom, and community spirit, this assembly truly celebrated the essence of humanism: cherishing life, learning together, and striving for a better tomorrow.

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Conversations on Humanism

24 November 2024 by

On 23 Nov 2024, we held an insightful session focused on understanding Humanism and what it means to be a humanist. The discussion delved into the foundational principles that guide Humanist thought and action, emphasizing Humanism’s dedication to reason, compassion, and the pursuit of human well-being.

Participants explored the philosophy’s emphasis on critical thinking, ethical decision-making, and a commitment to creating a better world for all. By prioritizing shared human values over supernatural beliefs, Humanism offers a framework for individuals to contribute meaningfully to society while embracing inclusivity and mutual respect.

The session further highlighted Humanism’s optimistic vision of human potential and progress, underscoring the importance of empathy and cooperation in striving for collective betterment. It was an engaging exploration of how Humanist principles apply to daily life and inspire positive change within communities.

This discussion served as a vital opportunity for attendees to reflect on their own values and consider how Humanism provides a unifying and empowering worldview for people from all walks of life.

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