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M.I.T.A. (P) No. 032/01/2002 PPS 201/4/2003
4 Go therefore, make disciples of all the nations... teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. 9
i n News Proclaim Forgiveness m
(M t 28:19)
SUNDAY, OCTOBER 13 - October 20, 2002 SINGAPORE 50g / WEST MALAYSIA RM1.20 Vol. 52 No. 21
F O C U S
M ission S unday October 20, 200 2
IN S ID E
ACM A _____ p a g e 6
Mission
D e a r B r o t h e r s a n d S is te r s , MESSAGE OF THE HO LY FATHER FOR W O R L D M IS S IO N SUNDAY
2. Urgency of Mission Kenya , page 7
______ p a g e 8 F O R M A T IO N
B ib le
V a t ic a n II ___ p a g e 9
At the beginning of the third Christian millennium the missionary duty is ever more urgent, because as I said in the “Mission o f the Redeemer" Encyclical “The number of those who do not know Christ and do not belong to the Church is constantly on the increase. Indeed since the end of the Council it has almost doubled. When we consider this immense portion of humanity which is loved by the Father and for whom he sent his Son, the urgency of the Church’s mission is obvious” With the great apostle and evangelizer St Paul, we wish to repeat: “ Yet preaching the Gospel is not the subject o f a boast: I am under the compulsion I have no choice. Woe to me if I do not preach the G ospel... it is a charge entrusted to me” ( 1 Cor 9,16.17). Only God’s love, able to make brothers and sisters of people of all races and cultures, can heal the painful divisions, ideological conflict, economic unbalance and violence which still oppresses humanity. We are all aware of the horrible wars and revolutions which bloodied the last century and the conflicts which, unfortunately, still afflict the world almost endemically. However undeniable also is a longing of men and women who, despite dire spiritual and material poverty, have a deep thirst for God and for his loving mercy. The Lord’s call to proclaim the Good News is still valid today: indeed it is ever more urgent.
The evangelizing mission of the Church is essentially the announcement of God’s love, mercy and forgiveness revealed to mankind through the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ our Lord. It is the proclamation of the good news that God loves us and wants all people united in his loving mercy, he forgives us and asks us to forgive others even for the greatest offences. This is the Word of reconciliation entrusted to us because, as St Paul says “God in Christ was reconciling the world to him self not counting m en’s transgressions against them and he entrusted the message o f reconciliation to us” (2 Cor 5,19). These words are
the echo and a reminder of the supreme cry from the heart of Christ on the cross “Father, forgive them for they know not what they do’ (Lk 23,34). This, in synthesis, is the fundamental contents of Mission Sunday which we will celebrate on Sunday 20 October, with the stimulating theme: ‘ Mission is Proclamation of Forgiveness. Although this event is repeated every year with the passing of time it loses none of its special significance and importance, because mission is our response to Jesus’ supreme command: “Go therefore and make disciples o f all the nations ... teaching them to observe all that I have commanded y o if (Mt 28,19).
3. The Face of Christ SUFFERING . . . . and . . . In the apostolic Letter The New Millenium I underlined the importance of contemplating the face of Christ suffering and glorious. The heart of the Christian message is the proclamation of the paschal mystery of Christ, crucified and risen.
. GLORIOUS
The Cross, in which the GLORIOUS FACE of the Risen Christ already shines, introduces us to the fullness of Christian life and perfect love, because it reveals God’s longing to share with mankind his very life, his love, his holiness.
4. Forgiveness and Love C h ild r e n ’s C om er _____ p a g e 1 0
FATHER MIKE
speaks R o s a ry M o n th page 1 5
^ R tro n s page 1 6
Dearest Brothers and Sisters, the cry of Jesus on the cross (cf. Mt 27,46) is not the anguish of a desperate man, it is the prayer of the Son who offers his life to the Father for the salvation of all mankind. From the cross Jesus shows the conditions which enable us to forgive. To the hatred with which his persecutors nailed him to the Cross, he responds with a prayer for them. He not only forgives them, he continues to love them, to want their good and to intercede for them. His death becomes the full realization of Love. Faced with the great mystery of the Cross we can only kneel in adoration. “In order to bring man back to the Father’s face, Jesus not only had to take on the face of man, but he had to burden himself with the “face’ of sin. “For our sake he made him to be sin who knew no sin, so that in him we might become the righteousness of God’ (2 Cor 5,21) ’’ The New Millenium”, n. 25. The total forgiveness of Christ, also for his persecutors, is the beginning of the new justice of the Kingdom of God for everyone. During the Last Supper, the Redeemer said to his Apostles: “/ give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you too love one another. This is how all will know you for my disciples, your love for one another’ . (Jn 13,34.35)
Contemplating the FACE OF THE CRUCIFIED ONE IN AGONY “we confront the most paradoxical aspect o f his mystery, as it emerges in his last hour, on the Cross"
In the light of this mystery, the Church, remembering the words of the Lord: “Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfecf (cf. Mt 5,48), understands ever more clearly that her mission would be senseless, if it did not lead to fullness of Christian life, that is, to perfect love and holiness.
See also: Application in life - page 8 Road to Mission •page 16
A rc h d io c e s e of S in g a p o re h o m e p a g e , V e rita s : h ttp ://w w w .c a th o lic .o rg .s g
Contemplating THE CROSS we learn to live with humility and forgiveness, peace and communion. This was the experience of St Paul who writes to the Ephesians: “/ plead with you, then, as a prisoner for the Lord, to live a life worthy o f the calling you have received, with perfect humility, meekness and patience, bearing with one another lovingly. Make every effort to preserve the unity which has the Spirit as its origin and peace as its binding force" (Eph 4,1-3). And to the Colossians he adds: “Because you are God’s chosen ones, holy and beloved, clothe yourselves with heartfelt mercy, with kindness, humility, meekness and patience. Bear with one another; forgive whatever grievances you have against one another. Forgive as the Lord has forgiven you. Over all these virtues put on love, which binds the rest together and makes them perfect. Christ’s peace must reign in your hearts, since as members o f the one body you have been called to that peace" (Col 3,12.15). On the Cross, Christ’s total forgiveness, even of his executioners, establishes the new justice. In the Cross God revealed to us all his love. The Cross is the key that gives free access to “wisdom which is not o f this world, nor o f the rulers o f this age ... God’s wisdom, mysterious and hidden” (1 Cor 2,6.7).
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A to m ic e n e r g y 46th General Session Conference of the International Agency for Atomic Energy, Vienna, Austria 16-20 September. The Vatican Delegation was headed by Very Rev. Msgr. Leo Boccardi, Permanent Observer to UN International Organizations in Vienna.
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to victim s handicapped through land m ines and the ir rights m ust be respected throughout the ir life | cycles. IfeJ
Vatican Press Reports
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In his intervention, Msgr. Leo Boccardi said that the Holy See “...has always followed with great interest the initiatives, efforts and projects undertaken by the Agency that are aimed at the improvement of the safety in the use of nuclear energy and technology. We would like to underline especially the
importance of the scientific research work, seminars and symposia on the radiological protection of patients, the monitoring and reduction of occupational exposure to radiation (cf. Symposium held in Geneva in August 2002) and on the safe management of radioactive waste.
Appeal to Sharon
UN photos
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Conference on the Convention on banning anti-personnel mines. Geneva, Switzerland 16-20 Spetember. The Vatican delgation was headed by H..E. Msgr. Diarmuid Martin, Permanent Observer of the Holy See at the UN Office of Specialized Institutions at Geneva. The growing awareness of the catastrophic consequences which anti-personnel mines continue to cause should encourage all of us to realise the fundamental aim of the Ottawa Anti-Personnel Mine Convention. . to remove these inhumane weapons definitively from the lives of entire populations. The dangers posed by anti personnel mines continue long after the period of armed conflict. Great progress has been made, but we have also heard the numbers of deaths (over 20,000) still caused by anti personnel mines, year after year, the numbers of those maimed, as well as the socio-economic consequences which affect
millions of women, men and children. It is estimated that there are in our world approximately 230 million mines still remain to be eliminated. Our society too often has a short memory and a limited time span for concentration. Public opinion must be continuously alerted to the fact that so much is yet to be achieved. Any delay or weakening of the full implementation of the Ottawa Convention will only mean more and more loss of life, more and more victims. In this era of interdependence, it is no longer tolerable to condemn, through inaction, entire populations to live in fear and precariousness.
W o r ld C o m m u ic a t io n s D a y
1st Ju n e 2 00 3
"Communications media at the service of authentic peace in the light of “Peace on Earth/1, based on truth, justice and love - Encyclical of Blessed John 23, 1963, "Peace on Earth".
Concerned about the serious attack on the Headquaters of the Palestinian Authority , the Secretary of State, Card, Angelo Sedano sent a special message to Israeli Prime Minister, Ariel Sharon, asking, in the name of the Holy Father, that military action be suspended because it jeopardizes the already fragile hopes of peace in the region, and hoping for a prompt resumption of dialogue, between the parites in mutual respect and understanding. At the same time, the Cardinal Secretary of State assured president Arafat of the support of His Holiness John Paul II in this painful time for the Paliestinian people and assured him that the Holy See will continue its defense of the right of every people to lie in peace within secure borders and in a climate of mutual respect. The Pope’s appeal has since been heeded by Prime Minister Sharon. Ed.
A g in g The Ministerial Conference of the UN Economic Commission for Europe was held from the 11 to 13 September 2002, in Berlin, Germany. It focussed on “Aging". The Vatican delgation was headed by H..E. Msgr. Diarmuid Martin, Permanent Observer of the Holy See at the UN Office of Specialized Institutions at Geneva. Too often, today, longevity and ageing are classified as problems. Longevity is rather is a gift of God, to be enjoyed and utilized fruitfully. In most parts of our world, longevity can be said to be a characteristic of our times. Older people have therefore the right to be able to realize fully the capacities and the talents they possess and to take their rightful place within society. On their part, society and the institutions of society - including the private sector - must assume
a more coherent role in ensuring that an adequate framework exists within which people, as they grow older, receive the support they need to remain active protagonists. There is a need to foster a more positive image of older people. We must recognise our societies as multi-generational societies, to which older people belong not just on the margins. Social recognition should not be linked solely to economic productivity. The inalienable dignity of each older person does not depend on his or her apparent utility. A truly multi-generational society is one in which older people feel that they fully belong, in which their dignity will always be fully protected, in which they need not fear, and in which their contribution will be respected and their wisdom appreciated.
Historic meeting New President 1 October 2002 The Holy Father has appointed as President of the Council for Justice and Peace, His Exc. Msgr. Renato Martino, Titular Archbishop of Segerme, until now Permanent Observer of the Holy See at United Nations Headquarters, New York, a post he has held since leaving Singapore as the Vatican’s first Ambassador to our country. Presidents of Councils, sooner or later, tend to be named Cardinals!
The Holy Father will meet with Parliament of the Republic of Italy in its ordinary session at Montecitorio, on 14 November.
Apostolate of the Sea and globalization The 21st Congress of the Apostolate of the Sea took place, Sept 29 to Oct 5 in Rio de Janeiro under the auspices of the Pontifical Council for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itenerants. 250 delegates from 60 countries were present. The Congress examined the effects of globalization on the maritime industry, hence the theme: “The Apostolate o f the
Sea in the age o f globalization.” Globalization has created growing competetiveness in the maritime industry, in which profits have to be optimized at all costs, and at the expense of the dignity of those who work in the industry. The congress also dealt with tourism which represents the fastest growing sector and which places new demands on the pastoral ministry of the Church.
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OUR Holy Father, after the Synod of Asia, a meeting of all the Bishops of the continent, issued an Apostolic Exhortation, in 1999, entitled “The Church in Asia’ addressed to the Hierarchy, Laity and Religious ofthe Continent. Just last month, in September, this document was the subject of study by the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) at a symposium in Thailand. The focus of the Holy’Father’s exhortation is evangelization - “Jesus' Mission of Love and Service in Asia". It is important to note that the Holy Father describes the “witness of Christian living"as the first form of witness, which in turn forms the basis of proclamation and evangelization, and consequently mission. There is a widespread misconception that “Missionary Work” means leaving one’s country for distant lands to proclaim the Good News after the example o f the great early missionaries o f the Church. And, indeed, that this task is to be done by priests and religious. True, this had literally to be done, at one time. This was “sowing the seed”. After that, comes the period o f growth. Today, the Church has already been planted in practically every country. Some are well established and mature, others are still young, and yet others are still “saplings”. But at whatever stage they are, it is they themselves who have to continue the work of mission and evangelization in their own country, through their witness of Christian living. It is this which has been described as the hallmark of Asian Mission by the Synod of Asian Bishops and which is treated in detail by the Holy Father in his Exhortation. This, too, was the emphasis of the Federation of Asian Bishops’ Conferences (FABC) at their recent Symposium in Thailand. We reproduce below, excerpts from the Holy Father’s Exhortation to the Church in Asia which empha size the conviction of personal witness of life which all of us in the Church need to foster. Editor
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42. A Witnessing Church C The Second Vatican Council taught clearly that the entire Church is missionary, and that the work of evangelization is the duty of the whole People of God. In every case it is clear that there can be no true proclamation of the Gospel unless Christians also offer the witness of lives in harmony with the message they preach: “The first form of witness is the very life of the missionary, o fth e Christian family, and o fth e ecclesial community, which reveal a new way of living... Everyone in the Church, striving to imitate the Divine Master, can and must bear this kind of witness; in many cases it is the only possible way of being a missionary".
Genuine Christian witness is needed especially now, because “people today put more trust in witnesses than in teachers, in experience than in teaching, and in life and action than in theories”. This is certainly true in the Asian context, where people are more persuaded by holiness of life than by intellectual argument. The experience of faith and of the gifts of the Holy Spirit thus becomes the basis of all missionary work, in towns or villages, in schools or hospitals, among the handicapped, migrants or tribal peoples, or in the pursuit of justice and human rights. Every situation is an opportunity for Christians to show forth the power which the truth of Christ has become in their lives.
43. Pastors
45. The Laity
People in Asia need to see the clergy not just as charity workers and institutional administrators but as men whose minds and hearts are set on the deep things of the Spirit.
By the grace and call of Baptism and Confirmation, all lay people are missionaries; and the arena of their missionary work is the vast and complex worlds of politics, economics, industry, education, the media, science, technology, the arts and sport. I encourage all lay people to assume their proper role in the life and mission of the People of God, as witnesses to Christ wherever they may find themselves.
By their life of prayer, zealous service and exemplary conduct, the clergy witness powerfully to the Gospel in the communities which they shepherd in the name of Christ. 44. The Consecrated Life and Missionary Societies
The search for God, a life of fraternal communion, and service to others are the three chief characteristics of the consecrated life which can offer an appealing Christian testimony to the peoples of Asia today. The Special Assembly for Asia urged those in the consecrated life to be witnesses to the universal call to holiness and inspiring examples to Christians and non-Christians alike of self-giving love for everyone, especially the least of their brothers and sisters. 46. The Family The family is the normal place where the young grow to personal and social maturity. It is also the bearer of the heritage of humanity itself, because through the family life is passed on from generation to generation. The family occupies a very important place in Asian cultures; and, as the Synod Fathers noted, family values like filial respect, love and care for the aged and the sick, love of children and harmony are held in high esteem in all Asian cultures and religious traditions. Seen through Christian eyes, the family is “the domestic Church” (ecclesia domestica). The Christian family, like the Church as a whole, should be a place where the truth of the Gospel is the rule of life and the gift which the family members bring to the wider community. The family is not simply the object of the Church’s pastoral care; it is also one of the Church's most effective agents of
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F A IT H P IL G R IM A G E S evangelization. Christian families are today called to witness to the Gospel in difficult times and circumstances, when the family itself is threatened by an array of forces. To be an agent of evangelization in such a time, the Christian family needs to be genuinely “the domestic Church”, humbly and lovingly living out the Christian vocation. It also means that parents should strive to make the moments when the family naturally comes together an opportunity for prayer, for Bible reading and reflection, for appropriate rituals presided over by the parents and for healthy recreation. This will help the Christian family to become a hearth of evangelization, where each member experiences God's love and communicates it to others. The Synod Fathers also acknowledged that children have a role in evangelization, both in their family and in the wider community.
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EDITOR
Dr. (Rev.) Robert R Balhetchet
W itn e s s in g
MANAGER Rev. Fr. Johnson Fernandez STAFF CORRESPONDENT Ms. Mel Diamse-Lee
We have practically saturated this issue with articles connected in one way or another with “Mission”, beccause on the 20th of October we will celebrate “Mission Sun day”.
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When one hears of mission and missionaries one imme diately thinks of people who sacrifice their lives, and leave everything, as did the first Apostles, in answer to the call of Jesus: “Come follow me!” As the Gospels always report: “They left everything and followed him.” There is definitely a certain “aura” about m issionaries T h e E d ito r which inspires and wins admi ration, because o f the Dr (Rev) Robert P. Balhetchet self-sacrifice and abnegation which are necessarily involved in the generosity of their answer. from
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Perhaps it is this which is partly responsible for the thinking amongst many that to be a missionary is a very special vocation which is not for all of us.
“In the last issue (29/9/2002) of the Catholic News, it was stated that Dr John Hui was the author of the article “Singapore represented at 21st World Congress” found on page 5. This was incorrect. The article was written by Fr. Colin Tan and Dr. John Lee, not Dr. John Hui. The correspondent is sorry for any embarassment that may have resulted from this mistake.”
This, however, is far from the truth. All of us are called to be missonaries for Jesus. The whole Church is called to mission, and indeed the Second Vatican Council put it even more emphatically when it said that the Church IS mission. It is of the essence of the Church. The Church exists for mission. The explanation is perhaps surprisingly simple. Chirst died for all mankind, and indeed, not just for mankind but for ALL creation. The Church is “merely" the gathering of part of that creation that has recognized what Jesus has done through the
to
L o v e
mystery of Incarnation - Redemption. But there is still and will always be the “rest” of creation that needs to be continually brought into that mystery. We have seen in the Holy Father’s exhoration to the Church in Asia the emphasis that he puts on the “personal and community witness” of every Christian. Our Asian continent is the home of many religions which in one way or another acknowledge a divine power. We in the church believe that Jesus has revealed the fullness of God in his own person, and it is the Mission of the Church which he founded - it is our Mission - to lead everyone to the knowledge of that revelation and the experience of the fullness of life which is given to us. Our Holy Father in his Message for Mission Sunday reminds us: “During the Last Supper, the Redeemer said to his Apostles: ‘I give you a new commandment: love one another. As I have loved you, so you too must love one another’. This is how all will know you are my disciples.” Apparently the early Christians took this command very seriously, so much so that a non-Christian classic writer of the Roman Empire declared that it was easy to recognize the Christians of his time - by the way in which they loved one another! We are all called to be missionaries and we need to be convinced that we can be very effective at that, simply by manifesting in our daily living the love which Jesus com manded us to practice. The face of the suffering and glorious Christ must be seen on the face of every Christian - on OUR faces!
IlDIII
Can wrong be right?
TH E PEW S W h y
h e lp th e
3 r d w o r ld ?
Why do we need to go and help the poor in 3rd world countries. Aren’t there worldwide organizations which do that? M. A. K. There certainly are worldwide organizations, but even these do need volunteer helpers if they are not to deplete funds through payment o f salaried helpers. However, “organizations" necessarily work within certain parameters and consequently “restrictions”. Oftentimes, “free lance” people are needed to cater to needs that are outside the parameters o f organizations. In any case, the work o f such organizations does not remove the personal obligation o f individuals to help others in need, however one chooses to do so.
In many ways, what we are witnessing today is just like ancient times, when the disciples and apostles were asked to give up their faith, under persecution by the Romans, Jews and pagans. Many apostasized, but equally many were matyred,(Simon the patriot was skinned alive, Bartholomew was sawn in half, others quartered, crucified, beheaded, or fed to the animals in the Roman arenas).But they never gave up their belief and love for God the Father, and His Son, Jesus Christ, who had come to save us. But through their matyrdom they brought to us the Good News . Today, to remain silent and not rock the boat is to reap the rewards of a secular and materialistic society. When Men and Women of Conscience and of usually high moral values lie low, knowing wrong is being conducted, but find it expedient to remain quiet, and mum, and to accept that wrong is right,or that white is black..or a 14-day old human embryo is not human, even though it has human chromosomes, and time lapse cinematographic studies show that these are real, living and rapidly differentiating human cells forming a baby, then, what kind of values are we human beings living by? Do we not ask God for life, and to guide us on the path of righteousness, yet we silently approve of what is
G.O. (Dr)
W h y e v a n g e liz e ? All religions promote virtue and goodness, so why do we need to evangelize? S.T. The Holy Father provides the answer in his Mission Sunday message. To put it briefly, however, our faith teaches us that Jesus is the fullness o f revelation, and in Him and through Him is found the fullness o f truth and life. It certainly is true that all religions do teach and promote virtue and goodness that is the reason for the respect that we have to show for all religions - that is the reason why the Church promotes interreligious dialogue which Our Holy Father has called the “Road to Mission”. But we do need to bring all men to the fullness o f life in Jesus.
happening? And do we prefer to follow Man’s ways rather than God’s footsteps? (Luke, 1,79). IsaiahfSS.S-fOjsaid when giving God’s message, “ My thoughts are not your thoughts, and my ways are not your ways...” As pilgrims making our earthly lifetime journey towards God, should we not try harder to follow His ways? Must we not make a bigger effort in not spreading the evil of death practised by the destruction of living human embryonic lives, and beseech those who are doing such practices to refrain, instead of ourselves sitting on the sidelines? And how many of us are putting the car stickers, calling for an end to embryo killing? And have we spoken out at our Parishes, neighbourhood groups, with friends and working colleagues about these senseless killings? God’s message to Loadicea applies to Humanity today...” I know what you have done. I know that you are neither cold nor hot....but because you are lukewarm, neither hot or cold, I am going to spit you out o f my mouth." (Rev, 3,14-20). Lets try and do this little service for our Lord, who loved us and His creations so dearly.
Indeed, the sentiments you express highlight the “mission” o f all individuals in daily living. That is something which is more than a little lacking in most, if not all o f us. It seems more than a little difficult to get through to everyone that each and every individual has an OBLIGATION to mission - an obligation to bear witness to Christ the Redeemer and Saviour. Perhaps, the blame lies with our vocabulary - our usage o f the terms “mission” and “missionary”. Even the many articles that are written on “Mission” subtly convey the misconception that “mission” and “missionary” belong to that special category o f people who go to some distant land and bring the Gospel message to people who have yet to hear it. Perhaps we need to change our vocabulary!
We suggest that “witness" and “witnessing" would put a greater emphasis on the obligation that is incumbent on each and everyone o f us, in the daily circumstances o f our lives - the very ordinary circum stances o f going about day to day living, in the very excercise of our daily work, in the various professions we exercise, the jobs we do, the positions we occupy. In all o f these we must be witnesses to the saving mystery o f Christ. In all o f these we must witness actively and consciously to the truth and the good that Jesus suffered and died for on the Cross - before we can expect to see the whole world rise to newness o f life.
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M ISSIO N M is s io n O r ie n ta tio n
P ro g ra m m e
By Diana Koh
F OR more than 10 years, ACMA has been encouraging Catholics to undertake Mis sion Exposure trips in lands beyond Singapore. As this invitation was extended to the Church at large, it became clear that some form of prior formation would be beneficial to both those going on the trips and to the hosting mission station. This formation programme is now known as the Mission Orientation Programme (MOP) which comprises an introduction to missiology and how it is practiced in the countries around South East Asia. Integral to this formation is a visit to a mission base as well as to visit missionary efforts, both Catholic/Christian as
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well as those of other religions. The MOP programme while, short, is inten sive, lasts for 7 days and is usually a live-in workshop-retreat with practicum included. Each p a rtic ip a n t is intervie w ed and screened prior to acceptance. The participant bears the full cost of the formation and expo sure trip. Graduates of the MOP have formed them selves into a group called Mission Awareness Group. Not only do they become the backbone of the MOP, but they help in mission efforts of other organizations in Singapore and strive to live a simpler life of mission and evangeliza tion.
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Where has all the money gone? E ACH year, on the 3rdweekend of January, a special collection is made from all parishes to support missionary efforts. The money is held in trust by the Finance Commission and the requests are made through A.C.M.A. which scrutinizes each appeal for financial assistance prior to recommending that such support be granted. So, you, the Singapore Catholic, has in this way, been part of supporting the following missionary initiatives and projects. YOU TOO HAVE BEEN A MISSIONARY! Sri Lanka Renovation and Transport Facilities for St Martin’s Home for Elders, Colombo Uganda Essential Facilities and Equipment for Diocesan Archives iin Diocese of Kiyinda, Mityana.
Thailand Centre of HIC and Homeless Children Mother of Perpetual Help Centre, Nong Bua, Lamphu
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fo c u s - A C M A
The work of ACMA
A rc h d io c e s a n By Diana Koh
C o m m is s io n fo r M is s io n a ry A c tiv ity By Diana Koh
T
HE Singapore church, in fact, all the churches in Asia, are the di rect outcom e o f m issionary activity. M issionaries from the W est travelled dangerous journeys to share the Good News o f Jesus with people who did not know Him. In addition, they established centres o f healing, caring, education fo r these people. We can also be missionaries These m issionaries were priests, without leaving Singapore. and sisters and brothers from reli gious congregations. The recipients and beneficiares w ere the laity. As a result, m any Catholics associate m issionary activity with priests, nuns and brothers. This is not so! The C atholic Archdiocese o f Singapore, in the 1970s, set up a task force to look into m issionary activity and how to better inform and form the church. The result is the Archiocesan Com m ission for M issionary Activity. A C M A is currently headed by Fr A lbert R enckens and the C om m ission has 12 m em bers, 8 o f w hom are lay people, selected because o f th eir zeal for m ission and evangelization.
P ito v o x m (JF tE p C
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A small office/secretariat located at 49 Holland Road, manned by an Administrative Secretary. Mission As sistance : substantiated appeals for financial assis tance are scrutinized and recommendations are made to the Finance Commission to release funds accord ingly. These funds come from the 3rd Sunday in Janu ary parish collections. Formation: Talks,seminars and sharing ses sions are organized annually. Through these, ACMA hopes to foster better understanding of the major religions found in Singapore and to promote dialogue with the other religions. Mission Orientation Programme which prepares the laity for Mission Exposure Trips and even for longer mission attachments. School of Evangelization by the New Evangeli zation Team to motivate Catholics to be better evangelizers. Evangelical Outreaches : through NET. These include outreaches to missionary institutions in Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia, street outreaches, evangelization of the elderly and housebound in English and in dialect and the Alpha programme, working in collaboration with the
Redemptorist community to initiate non-Christians to Christianity. Children’s Mission : programmes aimed at Catholic children invite them to participate in mission and evangelization at their own levels. Celebration of World Mission Sunday : Special leaflets on mission and evangelization are designed and published for distribution in parishes with the aim of promoting better appreciation and participa tion of the laity in the mission of the church. Print & Publicity : To source, design and print leaflets and tracts for distributiion not only to Catholics but also to non-Catholics. Another activity is to inform the laity through the media and the internet, on missionary activity and needs. Introduction to Christian Living : a series of booklets which introduce non-Christians to the Catholic church and the response of Catholics to life’s issues. Catalysts in Parishes : through Parish Mission ary Groups where, at grassroot level, Catholics can be missionary, reaching out, contacting, inviting non-Christians to know more about and to experi ence God’s love.
Call and Mission Reflections from ACMA’s Day of Recollection 2002 directed by Fr Paul Staes, CICM By Diana Koh In John’s Gospel, we find the passage : You did not choose me, no, I chose you; and I commissioned you to go out to bear fruit, fruit that will last. (Jn 15:16). This passage holds all the elements of the Call to Mission of each Christian. The Call is to all ... not just a few, and the Call is the choice of God. While it is a Call to all, it is unique and for a specific Mission. So if you are married, you are not asked to abandon your family and go to the wilds of Asia to be a missionary. God calls us where we are, and he provides the gifts we need to fulfil the task to which he calls us. Like Christ, we must be in communion with God the Father, to be one with the Father as Jesus is one with the Father. We need to be sanctified for mission, made holy “as the Father is holy”, always doing His will and not succumb to the temptations that Jesus experienced in the desert - to quickfixes, short-cuts and spectacular deeds. What are the fruits that we are asked to bear? Since it is the same mission as Christ, we have to “proclaim” the love of God for each and everyone, and to do everything within our means and power to help others experience and believe in this love. This may involve “setting the captives free”, “giving sight to the blind" (cf Luke 4:18ff). With the grace and gifts of God, we are to help to free others from their bondage, whether it is
attachment to sin or even physical bondage. We speak up for those who have no voice, we give comfort to those who are in despair or in need, we extend friendship to the lonely. As a result of our “sanctification”, a life that is wholly with God, we are able to show them the way to Christ, open their eyes to the truth that Jesus came to reveal. What are the fruits that will last? ... it is not multiplying churches, converting in numbers . It is what we pray in the Our Father each day "... your kingdom come, your will be done". Christian mission fosters growth, not mainte nance. Christian ministry is life-giving, not expansionism. Christian ministry is both Christcentred and person-oriented, not focused on organizations nor tasks. Just as God has filled us with his Ife, we, in turn are invited to birth the living Good News to others. So we are not just salesmen, activists, but people who help make the Good News a reality. Finally, we have to remember that we are “sent” ... chosen and sent, firstly by Christ, then by his Church or Christian community. We continue, not originate Christian ministry, therefore, in answering the Call, we need the rest of the Body of Christ to sustain us, to nurture us and to help reap the harvest of the seed that has been sown.
M issio n aries w ith ou t leaving S in g ap o re? SACCRE Conference Dates : Saturday 23rd Nov 2002
(1.30pm - 9pm) Sunday 24th Nov 2002 (9am - 6pm) Venue : St Joseph Institution Auditorium Contribution : $35 (includes tea-breaks & meals)
In Conjunction With the 25th Anniversary of the Risen Christ Charismatic Prayer Group: “New heart ... New spirit ... New life” Dates : 18th, 19th, and 20th Nov
2002 (rallies) at 7.30 pm Venue : Church of the Risen Christ *Programme Includes : Praise &
Worship, Talks, Healing
*Conference by registration only. Forms available from respective Charismatic Prayer Groups.
W o r ld R e n o w n e d S p e a k e r s
m
.
Patti Gallagher Mansfield
Ralph Martin
By Diana Koh Who has God placed around us to whom we can be His good news? Singapore survives on foreign la b o u r... do we regard them with gratitude for their work, do we respect them, do we talk to them, do we listen to them? Many of our nurses are from China and the Philippines. Who is welcoming them? Are we concerned about what they do when they are not taking care of our sick? At home, how do we regard our maids? How much do we respect their dignity as fellow human beings, who have similar needs as we, in respect of rest, recreation, dignity. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if we had a Christian work ethic for employers of maids and migrant workers? A number of people are unemployed these days. What can we do for them, do we even know them? Then there are the sick, disabled and lonely, not in hospitals and homes, but around us. Mission is not confined to being “churchy” or
preaching the Good News. Mission is a ministry of being Christ in the world; it is spreading a thick layer of the love of God over the whole world! We can take someone shopping, take the old to see the Christmas lights, spend time with them, talking to them, making them feel wanted, useful, loved. Putting Christ back into Christmas is a serious missionary task of all Christians. Another missionary activity that can be con ducted within the shores of Singapore is inter-religious dialogue - getting to understand and respect the beliefs of others without compromis-ing our beliefs. In turn, we should invite them to our own Church so that they can see what we believe in, and how we put these beliefs into action. Similarly, we should also dialogue and collabo rate with the other Christian churches in projects. A case in point is the Alpha programme which is a programme of the Anglican Church but which has been very well received in Catholic churches around the world, both as a tool of evangelization and re evangelization.
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MISSION FEATURE
Missionary Community of St Paul the Apostle and Mary, Mother of the Church In conversation with F r. F ra n c is T e o , M C S P A
What are they?
About the man ... Asean Scholar at Hwa Chong JC. In 1987, left behind homeland Malaysia and law studies at NUS to answer the call of Jesus in Turkana, Kenya in the Diocese of Lodwar.
A public association of the Catholic Church, made up of priests and lay people, men and women, from different parts of the World.
"To be a priest was the last thing on my mind" He was ordained, though, in 1997, at the age of 33, after studying Philosophy at Mill Hill, London and Theology in Nairobi.
What inspires your Community?
Following in the footsteps of Christ the good Shepherd, who calls people to follow him. We specify three dimensions in which we live this spirituality. 1 Calling others in Christ's name, to leave everything and, in turn become shepherds them selves, giving of their lives for others in the same way that Jesus called specific men and women to follow him to learn from him and whom he sent as his apostles. 2 Constituting an apostolic family with people from different backgrounds and cultures, in the image of the large group of Jesus' followers desribed in the Scriptures. 3 Sharing in peoples' suffering and searching for specfic ways of alleviating it, as Christ was moved with pity when faced with the multitudes "because they were like sheep without a shepherd". (Mk 6:32) Spirituality is based on daily prayer: - Personal, in peace and silence - Communal, around the Eucharist. Living life in the midst of the world, experiencing the dynamism of the Spirit.
What does the Community hope to achieve?
- Promote missionary vocations, primarily to the priesthood and to a life-long commmitment, by proviiding integral formation - Look for practical ways in which any committed Christian can partipate in the mission of theChurch. - Foster missionary awareness wherever we may be. - Give preference to the most marginalized people, going to the remotest regions of the world. - To create bonds of solidarity among people of all creeds and social, economic, cultural andreligious contexts, especially among those further away from the Church.
What are the priorities in Turkana?
How to do go about achieving these wonderful goals?
The people will tell you: give us a church, food and education - in that order! It is a challenge to teach them that he who comes to Jesus will never hunger or thirst! It is most important to provide food and nutrition for women and children. About 50% of the children won’t reach the age of 5 years. It is surprising how much one can grow and grow very well even in the dessert. We drill wells and small dams with stones to store the water for irrigation, because the rains come once a year. We approached a multinational for seeds and agro-technology. The answer: You want money, we’ll give you - technology, no! We did that once for another country now they are the biggest world producer! So much for human solidarity and development from the West!
Announcing the Gospel in places where the people have not yet heard of Christ, acting as witnesses of his love, and promoting a fully integrated evangelization: 1 Assuming pastoral tasks in dioceses with material or vocational needs, in response to requests from each local bishop 2 Taking charge of development projects to better people's quality of life, and this requires an integrated understanding of health, which includes a wide range of actions. Nutritional programmes v
Programmes of preventive and curative medicine
V Development of water and agricul tural resources Acknowledgement with thanks: MCSPA publicity materials
*
Promotion of an integral education
3 Making use of various media to spread the Gospel values. 4 Maintaining a permanent presence
The mission church . . . bringing Jesus to the nomadic people - under a tree-vault
wherever the local bishops have called us to share our lives with the people, since the evangelization process requires full, long-term dedication.
WANT TO HELP? Telegraphic transfer in US$ to: Missionary Community of St Paul the Apostle A/C NO: 102.684.001 Citibank, N.A. Upper Hill Road Branch, Nairobi, KENYA.
■
Fr Francis with the children and their teachers
‘Air-conditioned” classrooms. There are no walls!
8 - THE
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F A IT H IN LIFE
C a lle d a n d c h o s e n 13 October 2 0 0 2 TEXTS FIRST READING Isaiah 25:6-10 RESPONSORIAL Ps. 22 SECOND READING Phil. 4:12-14,19-20 GOSPEL MATT. 21:1-14
2 8 th
O R D IN A R Y
F i r s t R e a d in g The figure of a wedding feast, " the Lord will prepare a banquet o f rich food and fine wines", is common enough in the scriptures to portray life with God in his eternal Kingdom, and this is what begins the Reading. The passage goes on to describe this life with God, which is the realization of the promises made and the hope which is now fulfilled. R e s p o n s o r ia l
FEASTS OF THE WEEK Mon 14 St. Callistus, Pope, M artyr Tue 15 St. Teresa of Avila, Virgin, D octor W ed 16 St. Hedwig, religious St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, Virgin Thu 17 St. Ignatius of Antioch, Bishop, M artyr Fri 18 St Luke, Evangelist, F ea st (Gl.) Sat 19 Sts. John of Brebeuf and Isaac Jogues, priests St. Paul of the Cross, p rie st
Psalm 22 is the well known "The Lord is my shepherd. "Again we find the figure of a banquet: "you have prepared a banquet for me ..." Eternal life with God is described also as a pasture where the Lord gives us repose near restful waters. S e c o n d R e a d in g A hint of the banquet image - in the phrase "full stomach or empty stomach the Lord will fulfill all our needs, provided we have done our part with God's strength. G ospel We have a "Parable o f the Kingdom", the Parable of the Wedding Feast. It concerns citizenship of the Kingdom of God. There are
three levels of guests. The first lot were the original invitees on the guest list. However, when everything had been prepared and all was ready for the banquet, the original invitees "were not interested". The servants were ordered to go out and invite everyone they could find, so that the banquet hall could be filled. These accepted. These are the second tier. The new invitees accepted the invitation and came in, but there was one fellow who was found wanting - he just came in without bothering to prepare himself for the occasion - he was without a wedding garment - a third tier. As a result, he found himself rejected and thrown out. Jesus ends the parable with that famous warning: "For many are called, but few are chosen."
A p p lic a tio n
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Israel, in the Old Testament, had been hand-picked by God, for the Promised Land, they had been prepared by the Prophets and were indeed looking forward with great expectiations to the coming of
the Messiah. But when the Messiah Christ himself, actually came, then they "were not interested" - they actually failed to recognize him and accept him. The second category of substitute guests who were invited to take the place of those who were not interested, represents us, the New Chosen People of God, who are now invited to fill the kingdom. We have indeed been called and chosen by God to be his disciples. We have accepted the invitation, as attested to by the fact that we were baptized, but it is a question now of whether we are fully prepared for the eternal "wedding feast" in the Kingdom of God. It could well be that we fall into the third cat egory in the parable - the guest who was usuitably dreessed for the occasion when the king entered the banquet hall. He didn’t bother to “rise to the occasion”. He didn’t bother to “change” into “new garments”. We were given a symbolic “new robe” at Baptism and were charged to keep it “unsullied”? Have we done that? Have we bothered to “change”? Have we bothered to “put on the new m an "as St Paul would say? Do we still have our “old selves”? Do we now have “the mind of Christ”? These are questions that we need to ask ourselves very seriously? If we have to admit that the answers are all negative, then we might indeed question whether we are real disciples of Christ! We need to take heed that the man was invited, he accepted and turned up, but was rejected! We must not fall into the mistake of thinking that just because we are the new Chosen People and that we have received "external accreditation" as it were (through baptism), that we now automatically qualify for the Kingdom. That would be a fatal mistake!
GRAPHICS: COPYRIGHT-TTHE ORDER OF ST BENEDICT TEXTS: COPYRIGHT-DR (REV) R. BALHETCHET
S e n t to p r e a c h 2 0 October 2 00 2
TEXTS FIRST READING Isaiah 2:1-5 RESPONSORIAL Ps 66 SECOND READING Eph. 3:2-12 GOSPEL MARK 16:15-20
2 9 th O R D I N A R Y - M IS S IO N
GO OUT
SUNDAY
F i r s t R e a d in g The passage from Isaiah is a prophetic vision of the full realization of the establishment of the Kingdom of God. R e s p o n s o r ia l P s a lm This echoes the same theme while the Response repeats the missionary command to proclaim the Good News to all creation.
FEASTS OF THE WEEK
S e c o n d R e a d in g
Mon 21 O rdinary Tue 22 O rdinary W ed 23 St. John of Capestrano, priest Thu 24 St. Antony Mary Claret, Bishop Fri 25 O rdinary Sat 26 O rdinary
This reading gives us an insight into the seriousness with which St. Paul viewed the missionary command and the effort he put in to bring that command to practical realization.
Liturgical Colour Green Symbolizes “HOPE”-in the Christian context -hope in eternal life founded on Christ's promise. The focus is on our Response to God revealing himself through Salvation History. Sunday Cycle 1-A Weekday Cycle: 2
TOTtoewtoolje WORK); PROCLAIM Tt)€Godt>N€WS TOA li CR6ATION
command of Christ seriously. The Church itself has always been missionary. The vast number of missionaries who have, over the centuries, evangelized various parts of the world stands as a glorious testimony to the continuing mission of Christ. Every Christian, however, is a part of the Church and, as such, every Christian must consider himself a missionary for Christ. Are we conscious of that fact? Do we take Christ’s command seriously? We do not have to go out into the streets literally preaching the Gospel of Christ to the passers-by, but we have to preach Christ through the living testimony of our lives. That would be a very compelling manifestation of the saving action of Christ's salvific plan for all.
A c c la m a t io n This is the famous, often quoted missionary command of Christ to go out to the whole world and proclaim the Good News to all creation, which is inded the beginning of the Gospel text which follows immediately. G ospel The message o f today could not be clearer: "Go out to the world and proclaim tire Good News to all creation There is nothing new in that message. Christ himself was sent by his Father to reveal God’s love for mankind and his plan of salvation. He founded his Church to continue that mission, enshrined in the injunction o f today’s Gospel. The early Church certainly took that
A p p lic a tio n
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life
( From the Holy Father’s Message for Mission Sunday) The celebration of Mission Sunday offers every one an opportunity for self-examination on the demands of God's infinite love. Love which calls for faith; love which tells us to put all our trust in Him. “ Without faith it is impossible to please him. Anyone who comes to God must believe that he exists, and he rewards those who seek him ” (Heb 11,6). On this annual recurrence we are called to pray assiduously for the missions and to
cooperate with every means in the Church’s activity all over the world to build up the Kingdom of God, “an eternal and universal Kingdom: a kingdom o f truth and life, a kingdom o f holiness and grace, a kingdom o f justice, love and peace” (Preface for the Feast o f Christ the King). We are called to bear witness first of all with our life, through our total adhesion to Christ and to his Gospel. Yes, we must never be ashamed of the Gospel and never be afraid of proclaiming that we are Christians, hiding our faith. Instead we must continue to speak, to extend the spaces for proclaiming salvation, because Jesus has promised to be with us for ever and he is always in the midst of his disciples. Mission Sunday, the feast day of Mission, helps us discover the value of our personal and community vocation. It stimulates us to reach out to “my least brothers” (cf. Mt 25,40), through missionaries in every part of the world. This is the task of the Pontifical Mission Societies which have always been at the service of the Church’s mission, ensuring that the least ones are not lacking those who break with them the bread of the Word and continue to bring them the gift of inexhaustible love that gushes from the heart of the Saviour. Dearest Brothers and Sisters, let us entrust this commitment to proclaim the Gospel and indeed the whole evangelizing activity of the Church to the Most Holy Mary, Queen of Missions. May she accompany us on our journey of discovering, proclaiming and witnessing to the love of God who forgives and gives peace to mankind. With these sentiments, to all missionaries throughout the world, to those who accompany them with prayers and fraternal help, to Christian communities of ancient and new foundation, I gladly send my Apostolic Blessing, invoking upon you all the unfailing protection of the Lord. Pope John Paul II
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FO R M A TIO N C h a r a c t e r is t ic s a n d t h e o lo g ic a l u n d e r s t a n d in g
T E A C H E S
C h a r a c te r iJ ic s
o f t h e E lo h is t ( E ) x
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THE OLD TESTAMENT B IB L IC A L '
P R IM E V A L
H IS T O R Y The
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Documentary Hypothesis (continued) Biblical Primeval History appears within the written corpus of the Pentateuch. Scholars have long held that ,the Pentateuch can be traced to four major written sources which were eventually combined in the period after the Babyldnian exile (post 538BC) under the guiding hand of the Priestly (‘P’) tradition, and who probably was the redactor. Thege four written sources are : the Yahwistic, the Elohistic, the Deuteronomistic, and the Priestly traditions. *■* „* « We have dealt with the Yahwist (J) and we now- touch on the Elohifct (E ) and Bquterdtio^ist ^D) ^
■
the Elohist calls God Elohinr,
■
he tends to be less vivid and less concrete in his presentation than the Yahwist (J);
and
t h e o lo g ic a l u n d e r s t a n d in g o f t h e D e u t e r o n o m is t ( D )
■
th e£ lgh ist portrays God as transcendent, rather than im m anent: God is utterly different from man. As such, the Elohist usually avoids §nthropomor-phisms and forbids the making of any image of God. This otherwise inaccessible God reveals himself through dreams. When God speaks in person, he does so through theophanies, or spectacular manifestations . ■ the Elohist has a keen interest in moral issues. In his account, the law of Moses is less concerned with how to celebrate the cult than with morality and duty towards God and one’s neighbour; ■ for him, real worship consists in worshipping God and observing the Covenant (made on Mt. Sinai); rejecting all covenants with false gods; ■ the reflections of the Elohist are rooted in the prophetic tradition and in the reflections of the wise men; the true “men of God” are no longer the king (as for the Yahwist) and the priests, but the prophets ; Abraham, Moses, Elijah, Elisha,'etc... The Elohist has been associated with the traditions of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, emphasising morality and reflecting the proper response of Israel, viz., faith, and the fear of the Lord! However, the EJohist has also been considered to be merely a composite of independent traditions, or a redaction of the Yahwist traditions, to produce a Sacred Hisfpry of the Northern Kingdom of Israel, around 750 BC. ; . ‘
■ the style of the Deuteronomist is very emotional; D is not content just to teach; he wants to convince people that they should obey! ■ numerous repetitions are found : eg., “Hear, O Israel, rem em ber... keep the commandments, Jaws and customs ...” , ■ there is a constanfmbriure of the second person singular and the second persofi plural; this is doubtless the sign of two stages in the editing; ■ God has c h o ^ D a people for himself, lit ' response to this4election, the people must love God; ■ The landls a gift to m Qod ... and calls,fot a response o f faithfulness to Him, o j the part of the people: they have to remember and live out the Covenant. The Deuteronomist tradition was begtin tfi the f** Northern Kingdom of Israel before the fall of Samaria in 721 BC. It was completed in Jerusalem and took its final (i.e. present) fprm and place in the Pentateuch around the focteth century BC. * 9 * 4 m ■% 1 *
" V
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By Rev. Ambrose Vaz, SSL Professor Of Sacred Scripture St Francys Xavier’s" Major Seminary
A r t ic le 1 - I n t r o d u c t io n Wehave mentioned before that Vatican docu ments (not just the Council) but practically all official documents from the Church do not have “Introductions”. The documents are always di vided in to “articles” and the first article is al ways very important because it serves as the “Introduction”. The art.1 of the doument “Light o f the Na tions" is precisely the introduction to the whole Constitution and sets out its purpose. The exposition can be set out as follows: • • • L in k w ith w h a t h a s b e e n c o v e re d
•
Up to now we have been discussing, in gen eral, the Second Vatican Council and then, in particular, the central document, the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church with the title “Lu men Gentium” (Light of the Nations). With this issue we will begin to elabo rate Chapter 1 which is entitled “The Mystery o f the Church’. This first Chapter contains 8 articles. The articles DO NOT have titles, but in our exposition we shall be giving them titles, as it will, we feel, contribute to an easier understanding of the teaching of the Council, apart from the fact that it permits more cohe sive treatment, explanations and references
•
Christ is the light of the nations that light shines in the Church and must reach all men the Church is therefore a “sacrament" outward sign of inner grace) need to clarify for everyone, the Church’s nature and mission greater urgency today (written in 1964!) - era of globalization, but men have yet to achieve full unity in Christ
It is so fitting that we are considering this point when the Holy Father also speaks of the “urgency of mission today” in his Mission Sun day Message. Two important points emerge from this: 1 The Church reveals God’s plan of salvation. 2
The whole people who are gathered in the Church make up this visible sign (Sacra ment) of the invisible grace of salvation.
1 The Church is the Revelation of the Mystery (of salvation) This is the first article of the Chapter entitled “The Mystery o f the Church". We have mentioned previously that mystery is taken here in its strict meaning of something that is hidden and unknown (NOT “beyond comprehen sion”). In a very brief and passing reference, the article refers to "... the light o f Christ which shines out visibly from the Church". What is being stated here is that the Church is the “revelation of that Mystery” - the hidden “mystery” of God’s tremendous love in wanting to save Man through the Incarnation of Jesus as man, and through his sacrifice on the Cross, and his glorious Ressurrection. Jesus is THE revelation of God’s saving mystery but the Church is the “mystical Body o f Christ", the visible and incarnated extension of the living Jesus, continuing to “reveal” God’s loving plan of salvation. The article skips any elaboration for the time being - it will be dealt with later. 2
The Church is a Sacrament
The article goes on to state: “Since the Church, in Christ, is in the nature o f a sacrament - a sign and instrument, that is, o f the communion with God and o f unity among men - she wishes to set forth as clearly as possible her natue and universal mission." We can problably remember from our Catechism days that a Sacrament is an “ Outward (or visible) sign o f inward (or invisible) grace. ” That was fine for the 7 sacraments! But this statement about the Church being a Sacrament surprised many! Is it an eighth Sacrmaent? NO! It is truly a Sacrament (a visible sign) of the grace of salvation (invisilbe grace), since it is the continuing revelation of the Person of Jesus. The seven sacraments are but external signs of various aspects of the overall “grace of salvation”. But more of this in the next issue!
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CHILDREN’S CORNER C R O S S W O R D O
C h ild r e n ,
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to God. Both offered This means God asked them to build a
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S This contest is open to children who are preparing to receive Holy Communion and are attending classes at their Parishes. It has to be the children's own effort and parents are asked to use this opportunity to teach the children the value of honesty.
6.
God was very pleased with the gifts of th e ________ child. 9. The second child was a _________ . 10. Adam and Eve h a d ____ children. 11. The second child was ca lle d ____ .
2. 3. 4. 7.
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y o u m u s t f o l lo w t h e s e R U L E S
No 11- FAMILY
C L U E S R
C O N T E S T
Prizes will be awarded to the first three correct entries to reach the Editor, AFTER midnight Wednesday/Thursday 2/3 October 2002, by e-mail to steep/e@s/nonef.com.sg. The first three correct entries will be based on the date and time as recorded in the "Inbox". The Editor's decision is final. Closing Date: midnight. Fri/Sat 4/5 October 2002.
The first offered ______ . The first child became a _______. The first child was called____ . When God created Adam and Eve, he told them to go and have________ . The second offered th e _____ of his lambs. The children were
All that is needed to send the answers, is to use the numbers of the clues as indicated and state the answer for each clue. You must give your full name, address, and the Communion Class you are attending at your Parish. Winners, the first three correct entries, (according to the "Inbox") will be announced in the following issue of the Catholic News, and will be informed of how they can collect their prizes.
Created by CNews with EclipseCrossword ©2000-2002 by Green Eclipse Software
Here are the ansu/ers for\G RIOIS|S |W|0|Rl P[
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N0.10 - CREATION TEACHES
S p e c ia lly f o r y o u Dear Boys and Girls, The iast time, we talked about the Story of Creation and we mentioned that it was a story with a lesson that God was trying to teach us - a sort of “fable". The important thing to remember about such stories, is that the story itself is not reallly important. It is the lesson itself which is very important. And so, for the story of Creation, it's the same. The story itself is not that important, it couid have been told in some other way, but what it teaches us is very important, and it is the lesson itself which we must try to remember. Today we would like to say something about this “Corner” of yours. We call it ’ Children’s Comer’ becasue it is done very especially for you, children. The centre of it all is the “Crossword Puzzle”, and there are certainly a number of you who take a great interest in it and take the trouble to figure it out and send in your answers. That’s very good indeed! But, like all the stories that have a lesson to teach us, the Crossword puzzle is also something that has a lesson for us - it is meant to teach us something. That is what we want to point out to you today so that you can pay a little more attention not just to the puzzle and the contest and winning a little prize, but to the lesson that the Crossword Puzzle is trying to get across to you. it is the lessons attached to the contest that are much more important than winning a prize. The Puzzle makes you think about some points - it makes you look for an swers, but the whole idea behind it is to get you to know more about the lesson that is being taught. i’m sure you have noticed that each contest makes you think about one “thing” in the Catechism you are learning of have learnt in Catechism. I am hoping, though, that you also read aii these extra little bits that you find in your Corner, because they contain the “lessons’ - the things we would like you to learn that are connected with the Crossword Puzzle. So please, children, don’t just grab the paper and do the Crossword, but also take time to read what’s on this page because the little pieces are written ‘Specially for You’.
God love you all!
A C R O S S Since our life is given to us by God, we must also take care of our HEALTH. 4. We must try our best not to disobey God, but if we do happen to sin we must REPENT. 6 . Most important of all, LIFE is given to us by God. 8 God has asked us to take CARE of everything he created. 10 God gave animals and plants to us for our food, but that does NOT mean that we can be CRUEL to them. 12. We must not do things that will HARM our bodies. 13. The Sacrament we need to use to confess our sins and repent is called the Sacrament of RECONCILIATION. 2.
.
T H E 1 2 3
W I N N E R S
Desiree Low Yi Hui - Risen Christ S. Nicholas Dinesh - Immaculate Heart of Mary Chan Yen Fern, Marianne - St Bernadette
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Consolation 4
Alexis Arthur Tan Yan Xiong - Holy Family 5 Claudia Lim Yi Xuan - Risen Christ 6 Joseph Gwee Ming-Wei - Holy Family 7 Benjamin Yong Zhen Hui - St Anne’s
Since God gave life to everyone,
we must also respect OTHER people as well as ourselves. 3. Since God made everything, then we must also treat everything with RESPECT. Disobeying God is called SIN. From the story of creation, we learn that EVERYTHING comes to us from God. 9. Not just the life of people comes from God, but ALL life comes from him. I I . The story of creation teaches us that we need to OBEY God.
A total of 10 entries came in, but 3 have errors. Congratulations to all even for trying your best. There’s always another time! C O L L E C T IO N O F P R IZ E S Contact Catholic News Office, 2 Highland Rd. #01-03, S 549102 (next to Immaculate Heart) TEL: 6-858-3055, FAX: 6-858-2055 e-mail. cathnews(5)catholic.ora.sa. Monday to Friday: 9.00am-6.00pm ( except lunch: 12.00-2.00pm ) and ask for Auntv Cecilia.
Lessons from the Story of Creation HE last time we spoke about one lesson in the Story of Creation, and that was about God giving us everything that we have and see around us in the world. What we have to do is to treasure everything and take care of everything, especially life. What is terribly important too is “human life” and that means taking care also of our health and not doing things that can harm our health and also the health of others. But there is also another very
T
important lesson that we are taught in this “Story of Creation”. The lesson is about obeying and disobeying God. It’s about what we call sin. Any kind of sin, small or big, is really about disobeying God. All of us understand what obedi ence and disobedience is, no matter how little we are. Daddy and Mummy often tell us to do things. These “DO” things can be anything. Some, may be “small” things, like “Brush your teeth”, “Wash your
hands before you eat”, always say “Thank you”when you are given something, say “Please”, when you want something. Then, there are also “DON’T do” things - like “Don’t steal anything”, “Don’t fight with other children” and so on. These are about “BIG” things. Your teachers, too, tell you to DO certain things in school, and NOT to do certain other things. When you don’t do the “DO” things or when you do the “DON’T do” things,
that’s called “DISOBEDIENCE”. Okay! If all this sounds very difficult to understand, read it again. It’s quite simple really, but you need to read it slowly and perhaps more than once and you will get what the meaning is. We’ll talk more about this next time! Meanwhile, do try your best to be “good”! Make sure you try to do the “DO” things and please don’t do the “DON’T do” things.
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Children’s Mission Some 4,000 primary school children from 11 parishes have been participating in a project which involves them in simple missionary and evangelical activities.
d is c e r n m e n t.
This ACMA project, which began in July and ends in October, is the second such project for our young children. This year, members of the Catechetical Commission were also involved at the planning and promotion stages.
W HERE AM I H E A D IN G IN MY LIFE?
The project is in four stages : marriage?
The first is a pledge which the children undertakes to make Jesus known and love. This pledge is made at each weekend’s catechism classes.
priesthood? religious life?
LEAR N TO DISCERN G O D 'S W IL L IN YO U R LIFE. HAVE SIMILAR Q UESTIO NS LIKETHESE CLARIFIED.
The second stage invites the children to pray for seven intentions; prayer for family members, prayer for someone who doesn’t know Jesus yet whether in or out of school. The third stage comprises four activities which can be undertaken over a period of a month. The activities are to tell someone about Jesus, to make someone happy, to give a picture of Jesus to someone and finally, to help someone.
CO M E,JO IN US AT O U R
V
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DISCERNMENT WEEKEND FRIDAY, 18 OCTOBER (6PM) - SUNDAY, 20 OCTOBER (4:30PM)
St Joseph s Church catechism children with their nonCatholic guests during the Christmas party.
Jesuit Spirituality C en tre Kingsmead Hall (behind the Church o f St Ignatius) Kings Road CONTACT
F r Philip Heng, S.J. at tel: 6467 2790 email: philipheng@pacific.net.sg Fr Colin Tan, S.J. at tel: 6469 7356 email: cxtsj@singnet.com.sg
THISISALIVE-INWEEKENDOPENONLYTOSINGLEMALECATHOLICSABOVE21YEARSOFAGE. THEREISNOCHARGEFORTHEWEEKENDEXPERIENCE
The fourth stage is to invite a non-Christian friend to a special party. P E R F E C T IN T E R IO R D E C O R A T IO N
R en o v atio n c o n tra c to rs & m a te r ia ls s u p p lie r s E sta b lis h e d sin c e 1974 Two catechism girls (left) and their non-Catholic friend
R A D A C : G O LD AW ARD
S p e c ia li s e d i n r e n o v a ti n g o f H D B , H U D C fla ts , a p a r tm e n ts , p r iv a te h o u s e s , f a c to r ie s , o ffi c e s a n d s h o p s .
The children of St Joseph’s parish in Bukit Timah, held their party on Sunday 29 September during which time there was the usual fun and games as well as a magic show.
We provide the follow ing m aterials and services a t reasonable prices:
Texts and pictures: Courtesy o f ACMA
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Catholic News Book & Media,
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Nazareth Special Learning Centre, S r Anne May Chua, FMM 6276-3200
Good Shepherd Child Care Centre, Ms Helen Tan 6242-5695 Fax:6448-3454
HANDICAPPED Catholic Office for the Hearing Impaired, Friar R owland Yeo, OFM
rowlandyeo@hotmail. com Canossian School For The HearingImpaired, 6749-8971 Fax: 6749-8976 Ang Mo Kio Home, S rJ o 6459-4801
cathkg@singnet. com. sg Nativity Church Centre, 6285-6198, Fax: 6285-9556 nativity@pacific.net.sg
Magdalene's Kindergarten, Mary Goh Boon How 6747-6554
Canossian Convent Kindergarten, Sr Jane C hong 6469-2201 Fax: 64661307 cankdg@singnet.com.sg
Holy Family Kindergarten, Mrs A gnes Lee 6440-4344 Fax: 6478-0402 Maris Stella, Sr M arjorie Alm odiel, FMM
6858-3066 Fax: 6858-2055
MIGRANT COMMUNITY
PETER LEK JOO HOW
Departed: Oct 25, 1991 He had a smile, a pleasant way, A helping hand to all he knew, He was kind, generous and true, On earth he nobly did his best; Grant him, Jesus, heavenly rest. Lovingly remembered by wife, children and grandchildren. Mass will be celebrated at Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace, Singapore on Friday, Oct 25, at 6.30 pm.______________________ In loving memory of Eleventh Anniversary
Seventh Anniversary
Filipino
Catholic Community N e lly Faminialagao 9831-8044 / 6893-7609 French-speaking Catholics, Sabine et Jean-Baptiste Juery 68870564
jbsabine@singnet.com.sg German-speaking Catholics, 6468-1534 Fax: 6468-2402
Hong Kong Catholics, 6737-9285 Fax: 6737-8502
Indonesian-speaking Catholics, Josephine Handojo 6235-2820
Japanese Catholics, Kiyoko Jarnes 62548710 james@pacific.net.sg Korean Catholics, E sther You 6242-5607
Comm, for Migrants & Itinerant People 6280-5424 migrants@singnet.com.sg
Jesuit Refugee Service, jrs@jesrefsg.org Fr Colin Tan 6463-6022 cxtsj@singnet.com.sg
China Catholic Communication,
KOH HOU SEN MARY TAN LIM KEE Departed:Oct 13,1991 Departed: Nov 14,1995
God took them home, it was His will, But in our hearts we love them still; Their memories are as dear today As in the hour they passed away. W e often sit and think of them The memories of those happy days. Always rem embered by loving children, sons-in-law, daughters-inlaw and grandchildren.
Patrick Lee Kim Hwee 9060-5080
SPIRITUALITY
Second Anniversary In ever loving memory of
Cenacle, 6565-2895 Fax: 6565-3875
cenacie@mbox4.singnet.com.sg
6474-3590
Ignatian Spirituality and Counselling
Marymount Kindergarten, Petrina Siow
Br Gerard Choo, SJ 6467-6072
6251-5049 Fax: 6252-67904
Franciscan Retreat Centre,
St Francis Xavier Play Centre,
6567-9771 Fax: 6567-9786
Mrs Em ily Goh Tel: 6280-8929
FMM House of Prayer and Formation, Sr M ary C hua 6474-2526
Bakhita Search-lnn, Christina/Sr Veronica
Infant Jesus Retreat &Youth Centre,
(6367-6264 / 6467-4290)
Sr Gerard Lee 6760-2461 Fax: 6769-9369
yscchris@yahoo.com/canosis@padfic.net.sg
Life Direction Team, S r Theresa Koh, FMM 6474-2422 Fax: 6472-5895 S r Florence W ong, FMDM 6 7 53-9 602 /926 4-6 733
Boys’ Town Fraternity,
gaudette@boystown. org. sg Br Dominic Kiong 6769-1618 Fax: 67627846 Adrian (9836-5217) or Dennis (6274-2979)
or cosdu@yahoo.com.au Choice, 9307-7752/9671-0767
choice@cheerfui. com Harvesters Ann 6481-5912 W ebsite: w w w .harvesterscom m unity.org Hosanna! Music Ministry www.hmmonline.org
LifeSprings Canossian Spirituality Centre, Sr Lily Tan 6466-2178 Fax: 6466-1307 iifspmg@singnet.com.sg
SFX Retreat Centre, 6288-7901 Fax: 6858-2716 sfxrc@singnet.com.sg
Website: http//www.catholic.org.sg/SFX The Sojourners’ Companions,
Tammy 9747-8570.
Catholic Students' Society - NUS
9268-6723
sojoumers_companions@yahoo. com
PROFESSIONAL Catholic Nurses Guild of Singapore, Miss Janet C han Poh Goon 6442-8546
Catholic Teachers' Movement, Mrs Gail Siow (R) 6454-4094
N I E Catholic Students’ Apostolate (NIECSA),
Dr John Hui Keem Peng
johnhui@cyberway.com.sg
Infant Jesus Retreat and Youth Centre,
Poverello Teen Centre, Sr Maria Sylvia Ng, FMM 6544-2603 jub2000@singnet.com.sg
Praise@Work Juliana 9799-9184 email: welcome@praiseatwork.org
St Patrick House, (Boarding) Br Collin Wee 6345-5929 Fax: 6345-4635
Youth Life-Line, 6252-6300 Fax: 6285-5311 Youth Praise MinistryHelen Lee (9029-0118)
email ypmsingapore@yahoo. com. Young Christian Students’ Movement (Mandarin-speaking), Mr Stephen Chia
GRACIE SHANMUGAM NEE GRACIE MARTIN Departed: Oct 21,2000 It has been two years since you’ve gone safely home Sand not a day has passed without us recalling the ever so precious memories of you, our dearest one. Dearly missed and forever cherished by Peter, Kevin & Karina Shanmugam and the Martin Family. Mass will be offered for Gracie on 21 October, 2002 at Novena Church at 6.30 am and 12.15 pm. Blessed Sacrament Church at 8.30 am Church of Our Lady Star of the Sea at 6.30 pm.
Catholic Medical Guild
Ang Mei Ling 96663234 Sr Gerard Lee 6760-2461/92947521 Fax: 7699369 srtlee@yahoo.com
A ll p ro ce ed s w ill g o to C h urch a n d School B u ild in g F u n d
katongcatholic@padfic.net.sg
S r Rose Low/M s A nne S iew 6748-5777
Mr Budi Susanto 9478-7827.
Organised by: Church of St Francis Xavier, Chartwell Drive and CHU Our Lady of Good Counsel, 2C Burqhley Drive
Website: http://www.cams.org.sg 6345-1413 Fax: 6440-0272
irvingteo@cathoiic.org
Galore!
Hai Sing Pao, Ms Catherine Chia 6337-2465 cario@cams.org.sg
ijhcc@singnet.com.sg Canossaville Children’s Home,
N T U Catholic Students’ Apostolate,
Foo<j
ccs55@singnet. com. sg
Katong Catholic Book Centre Pte Ltd,
Mr Irving Teo 6296-0897
Make a date with family and friends!!! Drop by a CHIJ-OLGC on Sunday, November 3, 2002, between 8 am to 2 pm for a fun and food-filled day.
6337-4238 Fax: 6339-2583
Ms Maria Swee 6777-3893
Catholic Overseas Students Down Under
ALWAYS THERE FOR YOU
Kim Hwee 9060-5080/6286-1826
Francis Tamel Mane 9586-9938, 6792-6701
Catholic Kindergarten, Ms Edna Ng Poh Tiang 6283-3821 Fax: 6284-7783
9637-1544
China Catholic Communication (Zhonglian Centre), Patrick Lee
Christian Family and Social Movement,
KINDERGARTEN
BU ILDING A N D TR AD IN G PTE LTD We specialise in • All kinds of waterproofing/ roofing • Re-painting (interior/exterior) • Renovation work • Upgrading work Call: John Stephen Lim
6858-3077 Fax: 6858-2077
mail@zi.per.sg web: www.zi.per.sg
Sirach 38:4
Contact: E d w a r d 9 0 0 1 - 2 3 3 0
Bible Correspondence (Chinese)
6269-2877 Fax: 6368-4505
CHILDREN
Invitation Cards. RSVP. Thank you Cards. . Mass I Service Booklets. Ring Pillows. . Unity Candles. Guest Book/Scroll. .Favours. Wine Labels.
#
6
MAY THEY REST IN PEACE Eleventh Anniversary
St Joseph’s Home, S r Maria Sim
Good Catholic Home and Quality student guidance in H ougang for foreign student. Prim ary and Secondary level.
(W e d d i n g (S L s s e n t i a l s X
CATHOLIC SERVICE DIRECTORY
SPECIAL SERVICES Catholic AIDS Response Effort (CARE), P eter Lau 6353-4976, 9745-8991
Good Shepherd Centre, 6755-6496 Fax: 6752-0670
R. C. Prison Ministry, S r Gerard Fernandez, RGS 6250-9151 Fax: 6250-1804
THANKSGIVING Grateful thanks to Sacred Heart of Jesus, Mary of the miraculous Medal, St Joseph for answered prayers. Please continue to guide us and give us strength in all our problems. Special thanks to St Joseph of Cupertino for your continued blessings on our children’s studies. Grateful thanks to Jesus, Mother Mary and Holy St Jude for prayers answered. Please continue to bless and protect my family and me. Maria Koh
OHoly St Jude, Apostle and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need, to you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg to whom God has given such great power to come to my assistance. Help me in my present and urgent petition. In return I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. St Jude pray for us all who invoke your aid. Amen. Margaret
T H E C A T H O L I C N E WS ■ 13
F o r tn ig h tly : S u n . O c t. 1 3 a n d S u n . O c t.2 0 , 2 0 0 2
“ I a m th e re s u rr e c tio n a n d th e life H e w h o b e lie v e s In m e s h a ll n e v e r d ie ." In loving memory of
F o r a ll th o s e w h o h a v e n o o n e to p r a y f o r th e m — w e p ra y to th e L o rd .
Twelfth Anniversary In sweet remembrance of
In everloving remembrance of
In loving memory of
In loving memory of
I n lo v in g m e m o r y o f Fifth Anniversary
T r in ity Casket Pte L td Your Right Choice.... For: ~ • Complete & dignified funeral arrangements by professional and caring staff. • Catholic male & female specialist embalmers.
Third Anniversary
Note: Female embalmer will attend to all female deceased.
NICHOLAS (NICKY) BHEEM Departed: Oct 20,1975
Love’s Greatest Gift Remembrance. Always remembered by sister Theresa and family, daughter Merlin, brothers Tony,Johnny and all loved ones. In loving memory of
M DM ELIZABETH ANNABEL MARIE LEE YAM IM M DESKER (nee Wee) Departed:Oct 16, 1985 Departed:Oct 18, 1990 As the days and It was His will that months melt into years, she should die, We realize that God His will that we has dried our tears. should let her go; The thoughts of you: And we must ever your smile, your face, bow to it, Your gentle touch, But oh dear God, your warm embrace. we miss her so! Though 17 years "H e leads me beside oh! How it still hurts! To know that you’re restful water: H e receives m y so u l”. gone, never to return. (Psalm 23:3) But, in faith we pray to Dearly remembered the good Lord up there, To grant you peace by father, mother, and His loving care. sister, brothers, aunts Always, uncles and all loved The Neo family ones.
JAMES LEE SIANG POO Departed: Oct 12,1994 Time may heal the broken heart, Time may make the wound less sore, But time can never stop the longing For the loved one gone before. Sadly missed by wife, children and all loved ones.
ROSALIN NG HENG YONG TAN PAUL Departed:Mar 3,1997 Departed:Oct 20,1999
TH E LO R D IS M Y
SHEPHERD.
Twenty-eighth Anniversary In loving memory of
Departed: Oct 20, 1996 Upright and just in all her ways, Loyal and true through all her days, Silently suffered, patiently bore, God took her home to suffer no more. Dearly missed and fondly rem embered by family members, relatives and friends.
Tel:
MARGARET OLGA MOWE Departed: Oct 13,1992 What is a home without a mother? All things this world may send, But when I lost my darling mother, I lost my dearest friend. Always remembered by Donna, May, George, Laurie, Gerard, Walter and loved ones.
SANDANAM RAYAR Departed:Oct 20, 1985
FRANCIS PHILOMINA Wife of late Mr Sandanam Rayar Departed:Sep 12, 1999
Mum and Dad, There is not one day that passes that we don’t think about you, You are and will always be in our hearts No matter where life takes us, you walk a journey of blissful love, serenity and tranquility W e love you and miss you so much. Fondly remembered by family, relatives and friends.
V. SIMON PAULINE FERNANDEZ FERNANDEZ Departed: Jan 18, 1987 Departed:Oct 24,1984
There is a link death cannot sever L o v e and remembrance last forever Fondly remembered by your loved ones.
Ninth Anniversary In loving memory of
IRIS THERESA DANKER Who returned to the Lord on Oct 11, 1987 It was His will that she should die, His will that we should let her go; And we must ever bow to it, But oh, dear God, we miss her so! Eternal rest grant unto her, O Lord, and let your perpetual light shine upon her. May sherest in peace. Amen. Forever in the hearts of your loved ones.
P le a s e t u r n to p a g e 13 f o r m o r e “ In M e m o r i a m ” a n n o u n c e m e n ts a n d c la s s if ie d a d v e rtis e m e n ts .
Tel: 6455-5288,6456-5288,9691-3229 ' Professional services for Christians ‘ Qualified professional embalmers ' Quality local and imported caskets ' Special package and discount price for Catholics ' Professional handling of repatriations and import Sin Ming Drive, #01-523 Singapore 575712 (COMPLETE FUNERAL SERVICES)
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In loving memory of
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Complete one-stop funeral arrangements Affordable air-con funeral parlours with facilities All funeral-related services including columbarium works, exhumation, international repatriation of human remains etc Quality service affirmed by families which we had the honour to serve Transparent & reasonable pricing with genuine discounts No overtime charges, no hidden cost
ASIA CASKET SIMON LEE YONG HEE Departed: Oct 23,1993 Nine years have passed and loving memories of you continue to linger in our minds and in ourhearts. Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let your perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Sadly missed by sons, daughters-in-law, daughters, sons-in-law, grandchildren, great grandchildren and all loved ones.
ANISSA TAN KEEN HLEE Departed:Oct 24,2000 Take her in Thy arms, dear Lord, And never let her be A messenger of love Between our hearts and Thee. Dearly remembered by father, mother, Philip and brothers Alvin and Alex.
Fifteenth Anniversary In loving memory of
R A Y A R A R O K IA N A T H A N
(John 11:25-26)
A Mass will be celebrated at Church of St Francis Xavier, Oct 20, 2002 at 6.30 pm. Always remembered by wife, children and loved ones.
2 4
Blk 38, #01-527/531, Sin Ming Drive, Singapore 575712
In loving memory o f our parents GABRIEL SELVARAJ PAUL Departed: Oct 12, 1974 I am the resurrection and the life, he who believes in me, even if he dies, shall live; and whoever lives and believes in me, shall never die.
O pen
In loving memory of our mum
Sixth Anniversary
MISS THERESA LIM PECK JOO
Second Anniversary In loving memory of
In loving memory of
In everloving memory of PETER S. MURUGASAN Departed: Oct 15,1994 My heart is sore As time goes by I miss you more. Your loving smile, your gentle face, No one can fill your vacant place. Always remembered by wife, children and loved ones.
THERESA HENG GUAN HIANG Departed: Oct 21,1987 (Fifteenth Anniversary) Fondly remembered by children, grandchildren and loved ones.
• Affordable air-conditioned memorial chapels with microphone, electronic organ & appropriate furnishing & lighting. • All other funeral-related services including import & repatriation of human remains. • No overtime charges. • Special discount for Catholics. • Catholic guidance counsellor Ms Olivia Stravens Pg: 9524-9940
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Departed: Oct 1st, 1992 God took you home, it was His will But in our hearts we love and miss you. Fondly remembered by wife Lovene Devi, daughter Jaslyn Shalini, family, relatives and friends.
FRANCIS GILBERT GOMEZ Departed: Oct 10, 1991 We often think of bygone days When we were together; The family chain is broken But memories live for ever. Always remembered by wife Celine, children, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law and grandchildren.
Member of the Association of Funeral Directors (Singapore) "w 5 T B l k 3 7 S i n M in g D r i v e # 0 1 - 5 6 9 /5 7 1 S in g a p o r e 5 7 5 7 1 1
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14 - THE
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Bulletin o fth e Fam ily Life Society, Archdiocese of Singapore
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T h e c o n tro v e rs y s u rro u n d in g s te m c e ll re s e a rc h w a s in th e lim e lig h t o n c e a g a in w ith re c e n t re p o rts th a t th e s ta te o f C a lifo rn ia h a d ju s t a d o p te d a la w p e rm ittin g s te m c e ll re s e a rc h . S in c e s te m c e lls w e re f ir s t is o la te d in 1998, s te m c e ll re s e a rc h h a s ra is e d th e o b je c tio n o f g ro u p s a n d in d iv id u a ls w h o are
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a g a in s t th e u s e o f h u m a n e m b ry o s fo r s c ie n tific re s e a rc h .
The Catholic Medical Guild will be co-organising a seminar on “Bioethics, Stem Cell Research and The Sanctity of Life” and contributes the following article to shed light on the matter. W h a t a r e S te m C e lls ?
A s s ig n m e n t Our heartfelt thanks to Brother Collin for helping Family Life Society (FLS) as our Principal Therapist, Spiritual Director for our Pregnancy Crisis Service (PCS) and for the many popular counselling and parent-youth talks and courses that he has presented on our behalf. Brother Collin has been with FLS since 1995 and will be missed by all of us here as he takes on a new assignment next year. We wish him the very best in his new assignment and pray that he will continually be blessed in his vocation. O U R N E W P R IN C IP A L T H E R A P IS T
Sue Richmond takes over as FLS' Principal Therapist, Designate. She has been with FLS since 1990 - first as a volunteer with PCS, and later as a Family & Marital Therapist. Sue is known to many in the Archdiocese and has also helped to train our staff, volunteers and the public in counselling skills. N E W S P IR IT U A L D IR E C T O R FOR P R E G N A N C Y C R IS IS S E R V IC E
Sr. Agnes-Claire Koh of the Good Shepherd Sisters is our new Spiritual Director of PCS. We thank her for saying ‘Yes’ to helping us develop our volunteers in their mission of providing counsel to pregnant mothers facing a crisis, and to saving unborn babies.
James Wong Executive Director
HSU
S u ic id e
Stem cells can be broadly divided into two main groups - adult and embryonic. Adult stem cells can be obtained from various tissues such as the bone marrow, umbilical cord blood, placenta, even nerve, skin and fat tissue. Under the right conditions, and using means like regulating proteins, these cells can be coaxed to develop cell lines such as heart cells, muscle cells and nerve cells. Embryonic stem cells are obtained from embryos that are four to five days old. These embryos are usually “excess” embryos discarded from the IVF programmes. Embryonic stem cells (ES cells) are thought to be able to develop into any of the 210 cell types within the human body, and thus possibly useful for the replacement of diseased cells, as for example in Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer's disease etc. However, harvesting ES cells kills the embryos from which they are obtained. W h y O b je c t t o E m b r y o n ic S te m C e ll R e s e a rc h ?
Based on the biological and anthropological status of the human embryo and on the fundamental moral and civil rule, it is illicit to kill an innocent even to bring about a good for society (Statement by Archbishop Renato Martino, apostolic nuncio and Vatican permanent observer to the United Nations, at the UN, 24th September 2002). The Catholic Church has been very clear in its position on ES cell research. The document “Donum Vitae” issued by the Church in 1987 states that "from the moment of conception, the life of every human being is to be respected in an absolute way.” (Introduction, 5) “To use human embryos or fetuses as the object or instrumentation of experimentation constitutes a crime against their dignity as human beings having a right to the same respect that is due to the child already born and to every human person.” (I, 4)
In te r v e n tio n
P a r t I V
“No objective, even though noble in itself such as a foreseeable advantage to science, to other human beings or to society, can in any way justify experimentation on living human embryos or fetuses." (I, 4) While the Church condemns research that involves the killing of human life at any stage, she supports scientific research that is carried out in a moral way, for the development of humanity in the fight against disease. P ro b le m s w it h E m b r y o n ic S te m C e ll R e s e a rc h
Besides its obvious ethical problem, ES cells have the potential for other problems, first and foremost of which is the development of cancer in such fast growing cells. A significant report appeared in the Asia Wall Street Journal on 20 July, 2001 by Antonio Regalaldo. This was a U.S Senate hearing, presenting a National Institute of Health (NIH) report requested by the White House, on the challenges and difficulties facing stem-cell development. The scientific report states: “When scientists have placed undifferentiated embryo stem cells into laboratory mice, they formed tumours.” According to the report, “the possibility of cancer evokes the greatest level of concern”. Indeed, in April 2002, reports of a form of cancer called choriocarcinoma that developed from these embryonic stem cells surfaced in medical journals and the media. W h a t a re th e A lte r n a tiv e s t o E m b r y o n ic S te m C e ll R e s e a rc h ?
Adult stem cells obtained without killing any human being can be used in research and treatment. In fact, to date, only adult stem cells have been used successfully in the treatment of various diseases like Thalassaemia and Leukemia. Adult stem cells can be obtained from sources such as the bone marrow, umbilical cord, placenta, and even brain and skin cells. In addition, some cells like fat cells have even been
reprogrammed to become other types of cells. Recent research has shown adult stem cells to be very promising, and they have not been shown to cause cancers at all, unlike ES cells.On the other hand, embryonic stem cells have not been used successfully in the treatment of disease in humans yet. Adult stem cell research is therefore not only possible, but also viable, promising, and more importantly, ethical since it does not involve the killing of any human being. To learn more about stem cell research, you are invited to our seminar: “ S E M IN A R ON S T E M C E L L R E S E A R C H , B IO E T H IC S & T H E S A N C T IT Y O F L IF E ” .
Jointly organised by the Catholic Medical Guild, Family Life Society and the Singapore Pastoral Institute.
Topics: 1. Where are we now? (An overview of the stem cell controversy and latest developments, both local and worldwide.) 2. Looking at the issue from the point of natural law and philosophy (A commonsensical approach to ethics). 3. The Church's teachings on stem cell research.
(The session ends with a Eucharistic celebration.) Speakers and panelists include: Rev Fr James Yeo (Moral Theologian) Dr Gabriel Oon (Scientist and Researcher) Dr Chan Yeow (Deputy Master, CMG) Dr John Hui (Master CMG) Date: Time: Venue:
4 November, Monday (Deepavali) 9 am to 1 pm. Catholic Archdiocesan Education Centre 2 Highland Road (Next to Immaculate Heart of Mary Church) St. Peter's Room Admission: Free To register, please call Family Life Society at 6488 0277 or 6488 0279 by November 2.
T h is is th e fin a l p a r t o f a s e r ie s o f a r tic le s o n S u ic id e In te r v e n tio n b y B r o th e r C o llin W e e , fsc
T h e 7 B asic F a c to rs in R is k A s s e s s m e n t Assessment of suicide potential is a very complicated and difficult process. There is no interview structure that offers certainty at identifying adolescents who have serious intention to committing suicide. However, suicidal emergencies, whereby there is a need to intervene, could fall under two situations. The first is when a person demonstrates behavioural symptoms (for example, he or she may say: “There's no point in life...’’) or even attempts suicide. The second involves problems within the family environment wherein the teen resides. Factors such as parental anxiety, family disorganisation and helplessness could contribute to a suicide crisis situation. To evaluate suicidal risk, an interventionist should not only assess the adolescent but also the ability of the adolescent's family to be a safe holding environment during the suicidal crisis. (If there is a lack of family support, it is advisable to admit the adolescent into a hospital setting where caregivers are available to prevent further attempts.) Next, the therapist should analyse present stressors and previous events in the adolescent’s life. The Samaritans of Singapore have a “C.P.R" Risk Assessment Model that outlines seven factors to consider when assessing suicide risk: 1. Age: The risk of suicide increases with age. 2. Sex: Men commit suicide more than women but women attempt suicide more often than men. 3. Stress: A loss or change (it could be current or anticipated) that is perceived as substantially diminishing the value of life. 4. Symptoms: Signs of inability to cope with stressors can be seen through changes in behaviour. (The following are the C.P.R factors.) 5. Current Suicide Plan: Suicide risk increases if a person at risk has specific, detailed plan of how
to kill himself as well as the means to carry it out. Prior Suicidal Behaviour: Persons with prior suicide attempt or history of suicide in the family is at greater risk of suicide. 7. Resources: The presence of support systems like family, friends, faith and career can effectively lower risk of suicidal behaviour. The person most at risk is someone who is feeling alone and unconnected to others.
6.
To investigate the CPR factors, an interventionist could ask the following questions:
Current Suicide Plan •
• • •
•
Is it merely a passing thought (i.e. life is not worth living) or is it a serious idea (i.e. he feels death will solve his problems)? Has he formed any specific plan of how he will commit suicide? Has he taken any active steps to carry out his suicide plans? Does he think he will do it or does he know that he cannot - either because of his children, parents, religion etc? Did he make a will? (For example make out a will ask someone to look after his pet, parents or children.)
Prior Suicidal Behaviour • •
Has he tried to harm himself before? What happened? Has anyone in the family attempted suicide? What happened?
Resources • • • •
Did he do it in front of someone? Did he tell his intentions to anyone before the act? Did he make it easy for his act to be discovered (e.g. Left the door open)? What would your sister/mother/ father tell you if they were here?
It would help if an interventionist could first gather background information about the nature of the crisis and use this information as a starting point when interviewing the adolescent.
The goal of the interview is to assess the level of danger presented by the adolescent and the family and to work with the family to re-mediate the crisis. During the interview, the interventionist should focus on the following points: 1. The Precipitating Problem: What is the nature of the problem? 2: Risk Factor: Was it a serious act? Would the person have died but for chance? 3. Rescue Factors: Did he do it in front of someone? Did he make it easy for his act to be discovered? (It is usually a “cry for help” if the attempted suicide was committed in the presence of other persons.) 4. Premeditation: Were there premeditated actions? Did he write suicide notes? (If there were premeditated actions such as writing suicide notes, we should take his attempts very seriously.) 5. Consequences of the act: ~ Feelings: How did he feel after the act? Were there any regrets at being rescued? (Regrets at being rescued may indicate future attempts.) - Situation change: Did the situation change after the act? Did he receive a lot of support and sympathy from the people who mattered? - Further suicidal ideas: Was there any further suicide risk? Did he still want to end his life? 6. Reaction of the Key Person (The key person refers to the person to whom the suicidal person identified with the most i.e. a parent, friend or the person who triggered the suicide attempt.)
Contact us or visit our website Family Life Society Catholic Archdiocesan Education Centre 2 Highland Road, #LG-01 Singapore 549102 Tel: 6488 0278 www.familylife.org.sg
~ What was the reaction of the key person? Was he/she very concerned or caring? Dealing with suicidal persons requires more than following the rules. It involves empathy, a creative and flexible minds and the courage to leave normal pathways that normally apply to regular psychotherapy. It is also important, when dealing with someone in a suicide crisis, to journey with him or her throughout the suicidal crisis until there is proper closure. The counsellor who cares for people is called to be skilful but not a handyman, knowledgeable but not an impostor, a professional but not a manipulator. When one is able to deny oneself, to be faithful and to understand the meaning of human suffering, then the man who is cared for will discover that through the hands of those who want to be of help, God shows his tender love for him. REMEMBER: God's love is REAL only when through me it touches others. W H E R E T O G ET H E LP? F a m ily L ife S o c ie ty P ro g ra m m e s • C o u n s e llin g S e rv ic e s : • Y o u th L ife -L in e : • P re g n a n c y C ris is C e n tre : O th e r h e lp c e n tre s • SOS: • P o v e re llo Teen C e n tre : • H e a rtv ille (S h e lte r fo r M e n): • T h e T ent:
6488 0278 62 52 6300 63 39 9770 1800-6221 4444 6260 0323 65 42 6559 62 45 3497
Our Programmes and Affiliates: Family and Marital Counselling; Pregnancy Crisis Service; Youth Life-Line; Joyful Parenting; Catholic Legal Aid; Celebration of Life; Marriage Encounter; Engaged Encounter; Couples for Christ; Marriage Preparation Course; Natural Family Planning; Hope, Retrouvaille and Choice.
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YOUNG CATHOLICS
The vowofobedience... W
By FATHER MICHAEL SITARAM
We know that Jesus was always closely united with His Father. Religious as well as priests obey and model themselves after the obedience of Jesus to the Father, taking Him as a role model. This is what all Christians are also called to do. Fr Michael Sitaram is youth chaplain of the Singapore Archdiocese. To contact him email:
cathvctr/Spacific.net.sa.
E HAVE often heard of the vari ous vows that priests and those in various Reli gious Orders make as a way of life. I would like to pen some thoughts on the three most common vows - those of obedience, poverty and chastity. In this column, let us focus on the vow of obedience. The vow of obedience is to follow the obedience of Jesus Christ to the Father. We know that Jesus was always closely united with His Fa ther. Religious as well as priests obey and model themselves afterthe obedience of Jesus to the Father, taking Him as a role model. This is what all Christians are also called to do. Jesus said: “M y aim is to do not my own will, but the w ill o f him who sent m e.”
- John 5:30 Through this vow, obedience is more binding and it is lived within an environment that has a particular life style, vision, mission, Rules and Constitutions, which must be consid ered in every decision-making, and activity. So those who take the vow of obedience, communicate with God through Jesus their way of life and they vow to continue to deepen their relationship with Jesus. In His life on earth, Jesus had one particular aim. This was the strong desire to know and do the will of His Father. Taking the vow of
FATHER MIKE obedience shows a serious concern and love of God and His plans which Jesus has shown us by His example. What are some ofthe character istics of Jesus’ obedience? Jesus had concern for the marginalized - Jesus’ mission in
volved forgiveness and compassion, fellowship with sinners and traitors. He proclaimed the Kingdom of God which was made real through His own activity as a healer. He hated sin but had concern for the sinner. Jesus learned obedience through His suffering. The opposition Jesus had to face in being faithful to God actually brought Him closer to God.
|s p e a k s Jesus' obedience was motivated by love. Through His obedient love,
He brought man back to God in a relationship of love broken by the sin of disobedience of our first parents. The vow of obedience is taken to prove this love in the test of obedi ence.
The obedience of Jesus involved unselfishness - Jesus’ obedience
centered around prayer and He al ways took time to be alone with God. His obedience was the fruit of His close relationship with the Father. We know that Jesus loved to go to lonely places to pray and communi cate with the Father and prayer was the source of strength for His minis try. “H e e m p tie d H im s e lf to a ssu m e the c o n d itio n o f a sla ve , a n d b e ca m e a s a ll m en, a n d b e in g as a ll m en are, he w as h u m b le r y e t, e ve n to a c ce p tin g d e a th , d e a th o n a c ro s s.”
- Philippians 2:7-8 Jesus' obedience was marked by freedom - He was so free that He
was able to free us from the slavery of sin.
Youth and Mission In h is e x h o r t a t io n t o t h e C h u r c h in A s ia , t h e H o ly F a t h e r , r e m in d s u s o f t h e im p o r t a n t r o le t h a t y o u t h s h a v e t o f u lf il in t h e M is s io n o f t h e C h u r c h .
The many complex problems which young people now face in the changing worid o f Asia impel the Church to remind the young o f their responsibility for the future o f society and the Church, and to encourage and support them at every step to ensure that they are ready to accept that responsibility. To them the Church offers the truth o fth e Gospel as a joyful and liberating mystery to be known, lived and shared, with conviction and courage. If young people are to be effective agents of mission, the Church needs to offer them suitable pastoral care. I recommend that, where possible, every diocese in Asia should appoint youth chaplains or directors to promote the spiritual formation and apostolate of young people. Catholic schools ami parishes have a vital role in providing all-round formation for the young, by seeking to lead them in trie way o f true
discipleship and developing in them the human qualities that mission requires. Organized youth apostolates and youth clubs can provide the experience o f Christian friendship which is so important for the young. The parish, and associations and movements, can help young people to cope better with social pressures by offering them not only a more mature growth in the Christian life but also help in the form of career guidance, vocational training and youth counselling. The Christian formation of young people in Asia should recognize that they are not only the object of the Church’s pastoral care but also “agents and co workers in the Church’s mission in her various apostolic works of love and service’ . In parishes and dioceses, young men and women should therefore be invited to take part in the organization o f activities which concern them.
The Holy Father Worid Youth Day Toronto, 2002
Many changes and renewals have been brought about by the Sec ond Vatican Council and among these is a change in the modern understanding of religious obedience, called dialogue. Today, the vow of obedience for us priests, for example, is meant to help us to obey the higher authority of the archbishop. Obedience and the exercise of authority are carried out through listening and dialogue. As for the Religious Superior, he /she exercises responsibility respect ing the human person. Renunciation of one’s will, though important, is a characteristic of obedience. Religious obedience has two spe
cial features: vertical and horizontal. The vertical refers to our per sonal relationship and bond with God and the horizontal refers to our rela tionship and commitmentto the Order that we belong to, be it religious or priesthood. Religious life, like any other vo cation, gives us the opportunity for a greater sense of fulfillment. Why else do you think others choose to be in Religious life? The vow of obedience as an expression of faith that brings about growth and personal fulfillment in life. When God chooses a person, it is not only to set apart and dedicate that person totally to Himself but also to involve that person in His divine work. That person is sent to do the work of God in the power of God. Total self-giving to God requires service based on love and freedom for the building of God’s kingdom. All Christians are expected to do this. It is obvious then that much more is expected from a consecrated person whose lifestyle is more closely modeled on that of Christ. So what does obedience mean for you, my young friends? Your parents have shown you love and concern and the best way to return their love is not only by giving them presents on special days but by re specting and obeying them. Let us recall again the words of Christ when he spoke of the importance of His obedience to His Father: “M y a im is to d o n o t m y o w n w ill,b u t the w ill o f h im w h o se n t m e .”
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At the Sunday Recitation of the “Angelas” in the Courtyard of the Pontifical Residence of Castelgandolfo, the Holy Father drew attention to October being the Month of the Rosary. Dearest Brothers and Sisters, Entering the month of October with its liturgical rememberance of the Blessed Virgin of the Rosary, prompts us to rediscover this traditional prayer, so very simple, yet so profound. The Rosary is an exercise in contemplating the face of Christ, as it were, through the eyes of Mary. It is a prayer which is rooted in the heart of the Gospels, and is in total harmony with the spirit of the Second Vatican Council and in perfect line with the indications that I have written in the Apostolic Letter “The New Millenium": It is necessary that the Church “casts out into the deep” in this new millenium, beginning from the contemplation of the face of Christ. I would like to strongly suggest the recitation of the Rosary to each and every one, to all families, to the Chrisitan community. To give even greater force to this appeal, I am in the process of preparing a docum ent, which will help to uncover the beauty and the depth of this prayer. To the Rosary, I would like, yet again, to confide the great cause of peace. We are facing an international situation of grave tension and volatile events. In some places of the world the situations are even worse - 1am thinking in particular of the martyred land of Christ - despite all politcal attempts, it appears the spirits are so exacerbated as to be incapable of a new look at the situation, from the heart, to resume with hope the threads of dialogue. But who can infuse such sentiments, if not God alone? It is more than necessary that a plea for peace should resound to him from the whole world. Indeed, it is from this perspective that the Rosary appears particularly apt. It will lead to peace because while appealing to the grace of God, it places in the one who recites it, the seed for good, from which can be expected the fruits of justice and solidarity, in personal and community life. I am thinking of nations as well as families. What peace will be assured in family relationship, if they would only adopt the recitation of the Holy Rosary in the family!
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□ THE ROAD Message of the Holy Father for Mission Sunday (n.5) The Risen Christ gives peace to his disciples. The Church, faithful to the Lord’s command, continues to proclaim and spread his peace. Through evangelization believers help people to realize that we are all brothers and sisters and, as pilgrims on this earth, although on different paths, we are all on our way to the common Homeland which God, through ways known only to him, does not cease to indicate to us. The main road of mission is sincere dialogue (cf. To the Peoples. n. 7; In our Aae. n. 2), “dialogue does not originate from tactical concerns of self-interest" (Mission o f the Redeemer, n. 56) nor is it an end in itself. Dialogue, instead, speaks to others with respect and understanding, stating the principles in which we believe and proclaiming with love the most profound truths of the faith which are joy, hope and meaning of life. In fact dialogue is the realization of a spiritual impulse leading “to inner purification and conversion which, if pursued with docility to the Holy Spirit, will be spiritually fruitful”, (ibid., n. 56) Commitment for attentive and respectful dialogue is a an essential condition for authentic witness of God’s saving love. This dialogue is linked closely with readiness to forgive, because a person who forgives opens the hearts of others and learns to love and understand others entering into harmony with them. Because the act of pardoning, after the example of Jesus, challenges and opens hearts, heals the wounds of sin and division and creates real communion.
Since my longing for martyrdom was powerful and unsettling, I turned to the epistles of St. Paul in the hope of finally finding an answer. By chance the 12th and 13th chapters of the 1st epistle to the Corinthians caught my attention, and in the first section I read that not everyone can be ■ an apostle, prophet or teacher, that the Church is composed of a variety of members, and that the eye cannot be the hand. Even with such an answer revealed before me, I was not satisfied and did not find peace.I persevered in the reading and did not let my mind wander until I found this encouraging theme: Set your desires onthe greater gifts. ^ And I will show you the way which surpasses all others. For the Apostle insists that the greater gifts are nothing at all without love and that this same love is surely the best path leading directly to God. At last I had found peace of mind. When I had looked upon the mystical body of the Church, I recognised myself in none of the members which St. Paul described, and what is more, I desired to distinguish myself more favourably within the whole body. Love appeared to me to be the hinge for my vocation. Indeed I knew that the Church had a body composed of various members, but in this body the necessary and more noble member was not lacking; I knew that the Church had a heart and that such a heart appeared to be aflame with love. I knew that one love drove the membersof the Church to action, that if this love were extinguished, the apostles would have proclaimed the Gospel no longer, the martyrs would have shed their blood no more. I saw and realised that love sets off the bounds of all vocations, that love is everything, that this same love embraces every time and every place. In one word, that love is everlasting. Then, nearly ecstatic with the supreme joy in my soul, I proclaimed: O Jesus, my love, at last I have found my calling: my call is love Certainly I have found my place in the Church, and you gave me that very place, my God. In the heart of the Church my mother, I will be love, and thus I will be all things, as my desire finds its direction.
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THE PATRONS: It is interesting to note that the two Principal Patrons of the Mission underscore the two aspects of Mission - the actual going forth to preach the Good News (St Francis Xavier who spent his life in mission lands) and the essential “power” for mission - prayer for mission work (St Th6rese, who never left her Carmelite Monastery).
Autobiography of St. Therese
Principal Patroness of the Missions
THE PATRONS
S t F r a n c is X a v i e r
(In fa n t) J e s u s ORN 1506, in Spain, he was an (also known as Therese of Lisleux, original member of the Society of Marie Francoise Martin) Jesus with St Ignatius - he took vows of ORN in Alen?on, France, poverty and chastity and committed himself to January 2, 1873; died in evangelise the people of the East. He is one of the Lisieux, Normandy, France, greatest of all Christian missionaries, preaching in on September 30, 1897; canonized Goa, India, South East Asia, and Japan where he in 1925 by Pope Pius XI, who,in landed in 1549. He learned Japanese and formed 1927 declared her a Principal a Church that endured long drawn-out persecution. Patron of missions, together with He died while on his way from Goa to China, in Saint Francis Xavier; in 1997, she 1552. St Francis Xavier also stopped at Malacca, a was named a Doctor of the Church much frequented place of pilgrimage, where there by Pope John Paul II. Entered the Carmelite Order at is a relic of him. St Francis Xavier also visited Singapore for several days, during which he wrote the age of 15. Afflicted with tuberculosis, Therese letters that are still kept, while his ship was at anchor at the Kallang River Basin, which at that haemorrhaged but endured her illness with patience and fortitude. time was the Port of Singapore (spelt Syncapura) She wished to join the Carmelites at with the Harbour Master’s office located there. (Map o f Eredia, 16 Cent.) Hanoi in Indochina (Vietnam) at Not only was his preaching effective in drawing their invitation, but her illness people to Christ, but he was able to organize the became worse. She moved into the infirmary in 1897 and died at the communities so that they could survive when he age of 24. left them.
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Venue : Church of Immaculate Heart of Mary D a t o : 2 0 t h tV 2 7 t h O eto bo l- 2 0 0 2
Times: 6:15pm (Sunset Mass) 7am, 8:30am, 10:45am, 6:15pm
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