Catholic News issue 6, 2017

Sunday MARCH 19, 2017

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Archbishop shares vision for cathedral, archdiocese ... at Mass marking the close of cathedral celebrations

n Continued on Page 3

No. 06

Inside home

Getting to know church ministries Parish organises special weekend n Page 6

By Christopher Khoo A place vibrant with prayer and fellowship. This is a dream that Archbishop William Goh has for the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, the Mother Church of the archdiocese.

Speaking at the Feb 26 Mass marking the close of the cathedral’s dedication celebrations, he said he hopes that one day, the cathedral will be able to have the Sacrament of Reconciliation every day.

“I want to make this cathedral truly a place of prayer,” he told the crowd, some of whom had attended many of the activities during the Feb 14-26 celebrations.

“We have the perpetual adoration room, but that is not enough.

I want to bring worship to this place … I want this place to be vibrant and rich in prayer – private prayer, personal prayer, community prayer – because only prayer can change this diocese, and change the world.”

Archbishop Goh said he wants the cathedral to be a place “where people can encounter God and know that God is real”.

He also wants the cathedral to be “a place of fellowship”.

“We need to have a community to support us,” he stressed.

“No Catholic would ever leave the Church if they have a community,” he said, adding that “we need each other”.

In his homily during the Mass, which had the theme, “You are the Light of the World,” Archbishop Goh once again stressed a point he made during the cathedral’s Dedication Mass on Feb 14.

Vol 67

Young people learn to evangelise A look at the School of Witness programme n Page 9

ASIA

Reinstating death penalty in Philippines Bishops oppose move n Page 12

WORLD

US immigration crackdown Church leaders urge solidarity with vulnerable n Page 13 Archbishop Goh holds the Blessed Sacrament as he leads a procession around the cathedral on Feb 26.

I want to ‘make this

VITA Images

Actor underwent spiritual exercises n Page 15

cathedral truly a place of prayer.

FAITH ALIVE! Spiritual journeying during Lent

’

– Archbishop William Goh

Preparing for priestly role in movie

A look at prayer and fasting Archbishop Goh signs the certificate of the dedication of the cathedral.

n Page 19

2 Cathedral dedication

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

Special ‘Come Home’ Mass for those who left Church

By Christopher Khoo “I left the Catholic Church shortly after my confirmation at 17 years.

It was not intentional but a sequence of events drew me further and further away from God.” So shared Mr Augustine Low during the Catholics Come Home Mass at the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd on Feb 23.

The Mass, held as part of the celebrations of the cathedral’s dedication, was to pray for Catholics who have been away from the Church and to invite them to return.

In his testimony at the end of the Mass, Mr Low shared that when he was a teenager, he “couldn’t find meaning in the Mass”. Time on Sundays for teenagers was precious, and his faith then “was a transactional faith”.

“I had believed that if I prayed a certain amount, served a certain amount of time in church, I would be granted my wishes from God. … When I didn’t see the results in my prayer, it was a ‘bad transaction’,” he shared.

Mr Low, now 37, left the Church for 12 years, and called himself an atheist.

Then he met his wife-to-be, a practising Catholic, and was attracted to the vibrant Church community she was in.

He then decided to join Landings, a 10-week programme that welcomes back Catholics who have left the Church.

During one series of Landings in 2009, “I found myself drawn

‘As I played and sang along, it was like part of me came back to life …

This was the first time in a long while I felt God being present.’

– Mr Augustine Low on how a Church programme helped him return to Church

towards the musicians who were practising; they invited me to pick up the guitar and jam along with them,” he shared.

The crowd at the Catholics Come Home Mass at the cathedral on Feb 23.

“As I played and sang along, it was like part of me came back to life … This was the first time in a long while I felt God being present. I felt a sense of belonging I didn’t know was missing. It was as if I had come home in a way.”

The Landings booth seen outside the cathedral.

Landings is a programme that reaches out to Catholics who have been away from the Church.

It was the beginning of his return to the Catholic Church “with a supportive community” in which he could share his struggles.

“Spiritually, I’ve been given the opportunity to know Jesus better,” said Mr Low. During his homily, Archbishop William Goh told the packed cathedral that a recent survey showed that about two-thirds of Catholics in Singapore are not regular Sunday Massgoers.

There are 383,000 Catholics in archdiocese and only about 140,000 come for Sunday Mass regularly, he said.

“Why do people lose faith in God? Why do people stop coming to Church? Why do people leave the Church?” Archbishop Goh asked.

The reasons include complacency about one’s spiritual life, presumption – taking one’s faith for granted – and pride, prefer-

ring to place value on things like one’s own intelligence, money and power, he said.

Another factor for people leaving the Church is disillusionment with Church leadership and the hypocrisy that they see in the lives of fellow Catholics, he said.

“I know many Catholics have left the Church because of us priests, bishops and lay leaders,” said Archbishop Goh, adding that many have been scandalised by the harsh and unreasonable behaviour of priests.

“This evening I just want to take the occasion to apologise to all of you, at least on my part, for the priests. Myself and the priests, we know we are not perfect… we are sinners,” said Archbishop Goh. Yet another factor for Catholics leaving is a lack of love within the Church community. “We have people fighting, failing to show good example,” said Archbishop Goh. Catholics have to “play our part to help people return to Jesus.

There is no other way except by love,” he said.

“Love is the first step, not doctrines,” Archbishop Goh stressed, “Secondly, we have to give people a sense of community.

They left the Church because they had no community.”

The Mass also saw cathedral rector, Msgr Philip Heng, conducting a healing service with the Blessed Sacrament as Archbishop Goh prayed prayers of healing and reconciliation.

The Landings website is https://landings.org.sg/ n christopher.khoo@catholic.org.sg

cathedral dedication 3

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

‘A home for everyone’ n From Page 1

II united his sufferings with the sufferings of Christ.

During the Mass, Archbishop Goh and the 10 priests concelebrating went around the cathedral anointing and blessing the sick and elderly.

A healing service with the Blessed Sacrament was also conducted. n

The Church in Singapore “must be a home” for everyone – for the rich, the poor, young and old, and children. He noted that some churches are intolerant of the noise that children sometimes make.

“Whatever sexual orientation you have; whatever race, colour, language, culture; migrants; the Church is a home for everyone simply because we’re the family of God.” He told the congregation that if they believed in his vision for the archdiocese, “to build a vibrant, missionary and evangelistic community”, then “join me, work with me, collaborate with me”.

“If you have talents, share with us your talents. If you have time, share your time with us. If you have resources, share your resources with us.”

“Let us work together,” he urged. “Share this dream with me, and this can be a beautiful Church for you, for your children.”

A candlelight procession with the Blessed Sacrament was also held during which Archbishop Goh and cathedral rector Msgr Philip Heng led the congregation in prayers at five locations in the compound.

Towards the end of the celebration, Archbishop Goh as head of the archdiocese, Msgr Heng as cathedral rector and Fr Ignatius Yeo as notary formally signed the certificate of the dedication of the cathedral. n

christopher.khoo@catholic.org.sg

christopher.khoo@catholic.org.sg

Left: Archbishop Emeritus Nicholas Chia was among the many who received the anointing of the sick at the cathedral on Feb 25.

Right: Fr John Bosco Pereira blessing a participant.

Ministering to the sick and elderly at cathedral celebrations

By Christopher Khoo Archbishop Emeritus Nicholas Chia was among those who received the anointing of the sick at a special Mass at the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd on Feb 25.

About 90 people in wheelchairs, from various Church homes and organisations, attended the Mass for the sick and elderly.

The event, titled “Come All Ye Who Are

Weary”, was part of the cathedral dedication celebrations.

In his homily, Archbishop William Goh spoke of “redemptive suffering”, telling those experiencing illnesses that if they “suffer patiently, cheerfully,” they can “inspire” others. “[If] you share in the sufferings of Christ in a cheerful way,” he said, “you can bring many people to God”.

He noted that the late Pope John Paul

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Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

CHARIS helps provide clean water in Cambodia

By James Khoo and Victoria Lim

Before commencing work, the volunteers attended Mass at St Thirteen volunteers from CHAR- John’s Catholic Church in Siem IS embarked on a mission trip to Reap. train staff of Caritas Cambodia Fr Totet Banaynal, a Filipino and villagers to build a bio-sand Jesuit, reminded volunteers that water filtration systheir encounter with The CHARIS tem, which provides the villagers would clean drinking water volunteers worked be that of grace, at low cost. mission and friendThe Feb 12-18 with villagers and ship. trip to the rural vil- staff from Caritas The project saw lage of Beng Mealea, the filtration system Cambodia to get which is about 65 constructed entirethem acquainted ly out of material km away from the main town of Siem sourced from within with the setup Reap, Cambodia, the village area, of the biosand saw the CHARIS making it a sustainfiltration tank.

(Caritas Humaniable endeavour that tarian Aid & Relief can be easily repliInitiatives, Singapore) volunteers cated by villages throughout rural working with villagers as well as Cambodia.

Caritas Cambodia staff.

The effort of hand washing the The aim was to to get them ac- sand to remove the organic matter quainted with the setup of the bio- from the sand was done by both sand filtration tank. villagers and volunteers. This

CHARIS volunteers, villagers and Caritas Cambodia staff working on the base of the bio-sand filtration tank.

time spent together was an opportunity for fellowship for both parties as they learnt about each other’s culture through activities such as song-singing.

At the end of the mission, a maintenance team was formed amongst the villagers to maintain the tank.

Mr Michael Tai, 64, a first time volunteer with CHARIS said, “The villagers welcomed us with open arms, sharing their food with us. We were tired but it was

always a joy to be working with them.”

Ms Bernadette Glisse, director of the Community Health and Livelihood Programmes of Caritas Cambodia in Siem Reap, expressed optimism for the system and hopes that it would improve the health of the villagers and that it can be replicated in other villages and schools in the future.

As Cambodia experiences the ongoing impact of climate change, clean water has become a

very precious resource in the region. Caritas Cambodia is hoping to improve access to clean water and thus improve the health of the villagers.

The villagers have been using water from contaminated water ponds for drinking, washing and cooking.

Between 2015 and 2016, CHARIS had assisted in the building and training of five biosand systems in Sri Lanka, Bogo City and Romblon in the Philippines. n

BUILDING THE CHURCH of Tomorrow 5

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

A LEGO CATHEDRAL BUILT IN CELEBRATION OF CATHEDRAL DEDICATION As part of the 12-day celebrations surrounding the dedication of the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, the Catholic Foundation initiated a challenge to those attending to build a Lego model of the cathedral. The 500-brick structure was completed and offered at the closing Mass.

A 500-brick Lego model of the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd being offered up during the closing Mass of the cathedral dedication celebrations.

To build a 500-brick Lego model of the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd within 12 days.

This was the challenge the Catholic Foundation set for itself and those coming for the celebrations commemorating the dedication of the cathedral.

Starting from the cathedral’s Dedication Mass on 14 February and lasting throughout its 12 days of celebrations, the Catholic Foundation challenged participants present for various events to help build the Lego structure.

Each brick could only be contributed by one person, and in order to obtain a brick, every individual is asked to write a message or prayer to be placed on a thanksgiving wall, and optionally make a love offering in support of the archdiocese.

“We had no idea how people would respond to this and were worried we might not be able to complete the structure. But as with all things for God, we set out in faith,” said Ms Juliana Foo, Executive Director of the Catholic Foundation.

Over the two weeks, the Catholic Foundation saw participants from all walks of life step forward to help build the Lego Cathedral.

From priests and parishioners of the various archdiocese districts to young children, youth and young adults, and entire families.

Even the more senior parishioners participated. Each brick on the structure not only represented different individuals’ thanksgiving and petitions, but it also captured the vibrancy of the Catholic Church in Singapore.

The completed Lego model, together with the thanksgiving messages, were offered up during the closing Mass of the cathedral

celebrations on 26 February.

“I thought this was a very creative way to celebrate our Mother Church. I like how each brick represents someone’s gratitude and generosity, symbolising how the Church is built on our thanksgiving to God,” said Ms Nicole Cheok, a parishioner of the Church of St Mary of the Angels, who was present at the closing Mass.

Ms Winnie Lee, a parishioner of the Church of St Alphonsus (Novena Church), said, “I was here during the first day and contributed a piece to the Lego Cathedral. It made me feel like I played a part in building the Church, and I thought it was a great idea to drive home archbishop’s message that everyone needs to play their part to offer our generosity in terms of our time, talent, and wealth, to build up our archdiocese.”

Msgr Philip Heng SJ, the Rector of the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, added, “The Lego Cathedral really affirms just how God provides through His people, much like the miracles that enabled our actual cathedral to undergo its much needed restoration.”

For the staff of the Catholic

Archbishop William Goh places a brick on a cross in the Lego Cathedral.

Foundation, the offering of the Lego Cathedral was deeply symbolic of the struggles and joys they face with the recently launched Giving in Faith & Thankfulness (GIFT) Campaign to build the Church of Tomorrow.

“Setting out on the Lego Cathedral Challenge was very much like our GIFT Campaign.

We had no idea how people would respond or if we would reach our target within the stipulated timeline. But seeing the completed Lego Cathedral reaffirms us of God’s providence, and the generosity of Catholics in Singapore. We believe that our archdiocese will truly grow into a more vibrant, missionary and evangelistic Church” said Ms Foo.

Friar Justin Lim OFM contributes a brick to the roof of the Lego Cathedral.

One youth contributes her brick to a pillar on the left side of the Lego Cathedral.

A boy intrigued by a time-lapse video of the Lego Cathedral built up to day 10.

A participant writes his message of thanksgiving on a sticky note.

The last piece of the Lego Cathedral, a crucifix on the top, is placed

by Archbishop Emeritus Nicholas Chia and Msgr Philip Heng SJ.

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Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

CTIS graduates encouraged to live out what they learnt The Catholic Theological Institute of Singapore (CTIS) celebrated the graduation of 97 students on Feb 18 at the Church of St Teresa.

The ceremony, held in the auditorium, was presided over by Archbishop William Goh. He took the opportunity during his keynote address to thank the students for their diligence, as well as the many benefactors who contribute to the growth of the academic community at CTIS. He exhorted students to live out what they learnt in their Christian vocations.

Out of the 97 students, 42 graduated with the Certificate in Theology while 55 graduated

with the Diploma in Theology.

These students were participants of the respective programmes conducted in English and Mandarin.

CTIS programmes provide students with a foundational introduction to theological studies, which include Scripture studies, Church history, moral thought and philosophy.

CTIS was established in 2013 by Archbishop William Goh to cater to formation of the lay faithful. Since 2016, it has merged academic operations with the St Francis Xavier Major Seminary to include the training of candidates for the priesthood and the Religious life. n

Archbishop William Goh addressing the CTIS graduates on Feb 18.

Parish organises ministry weekend to create awareness

Catechism children visiting the altar servers’ booth during the Ministry Awareness Weekend at the Church of Sts Peter and Paul.

The Church of Sts Peter and Paul to catechumens and children from organised a Ministry Awareness the catechetical programme.

Weekend from Feb 18-19 to creThere was a collaborative efate greater awareness of the vari- fort by the RCIA team, catechists ous avenues one can serve in the and the organisers to arrange parish. guided tours for catechumens and The event, an initiative of children so that they could gain the parish pastoral council, also greater insights regarding the varserved as an opportunity to facili- ious ministries in the parish. tate greater community building As part of the programme, among people who are already the parish’s choirs, ukulele team serving in ministries. and the Cantonese Parish priest, Carput on perDuring the apostolate melite Fr John Chua, formances that added course of the to the vibrancy of the kicked off the event with a Holy Hour. event. weekend, He reminded the 100 These activities 21 ministries were well-received by ministry members that charity should be at the set up booths parishioners. heart of all ministry “I liked the carnito inform work and that ministry val atmosphere and service should never camaraderie! Fellowthe parish be competitive or selfwas really good!” community ship righteous. shared choir member Ministry memChristopher See. about bers were also given Irma Sarmientheir work. to, Ms a blessing during the a Legion of Mary 5.30pm Mass. representative, shared, During the course of the week- “All of us in the group enjoyed end, 21 ministries set up booths the bonding and felt extra happy to inform the parish community that we received new memberabout their work. Among them was ships!” one set up by the Carmelite Friars, Mr Dominic Koh, the organiswhich served to create awareness ing chairperson, said that the parof the Carmelite charism. ish could consider continuing this Organisers of the event also practice on an annual or bi-annual made special effort to reach out basis. n

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

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Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

Archbishop stresses importance of prayer at Rite of Election More than a thousand expected to join Catholic Church this Easter The previous day at the Church of St Mary of the Angels, Be rooted in the Word of God be- there were 389 catechumens and cause it, not the world, gives us 38 candidates. the truth.

A Chinese Rite of ElecThis was Archbishop Wil- tion was scheduled for March liam Goh’s message to catechu- 12 at Nativity Church for 123 mens and candidates prepar- catechumens and six candiing to become Catholics this dates. This would bring the total Easter, during a Rite of Election number of people entering the held at Church of the Nativity Catholic Church this Easter to of the Blessed Virgin Mary on 1,006.

March 5.

The Rite of Election on Referring to the Gospel read- March 5 saw catechumens writing where Jesus fasted in the de- ing their names in the Book sert for 40 days and nights and of the Elect, which was in the was tempted by Satan, Arch- form of a long scroll. Godparbishop Goh said, ents placed their “Whenever Jesus hand on the cateThe support faced temptation, chumens’ shoulHe always cited der as they wrote from the Catholic Scripture.” names. community has been theirAfter Similarly, in this was overwhelming and done, catechetia society full of worldly tempcal director Fr I’m really looking tations where Erbin Fernandez forward to my “modern man presented the does not think Book of the Elect baptism in Easter. he needs Jesus, to Archbishop – Mr Bob Lim, an Elect, choose God and Goh. on his thoughts after the really be familiar Candidates Rite of Election on March 5. with His Word,” also participated he urged. in a rite called He encouraged those prepar- the Call to Continuing Convering for the Sacraments of Initia- sion in which they were urged to tion – Baptism, Confirmation, and hear the Lord’s call to conversion Holy Communion – to “spend at and be faithful to their baptismal least half an hour praying to the covenant.

Lord everyday.”

CatholicNews spoke to some “If you do this and have an of the Elect after the service for intense prayer life, your faith will their thoughts. be strong and temptations will “I feel God’s love at work not stir you,” said Archbishop here,” said Mr Bob Lim, 68, Goh. from the Church of the Holy There were 406 catechumens Trinity. (non-Christians seeking Baptism) “The support from the Cathoand 44 candidates (baptised Chris- lic community has been overtians seeking full communion whelming and I’m really looking with the Catholic Church) at the forward to my baptism in Easter,” service held at Nativity Church on he said.

March 5.

Ms Amelia Ang, 27, from the

By Jared Ng

‘

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Catechumens writing their names in the Book of the Elect.

Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, said she felt “at peace” after the service and would be taking up Archbishop Goh’s call to “pray more fervently in preparation for baptism.”

The Rite of Election refers to an understanding that God continues to choose people through the covenant of baptism, just as He established a covenant with Israel.

The rite provides an opportunity for the catechumens to be formally enrolled among God’s chosen people.

The Elect, as the catechumens are now called, will undergo the rite of Scrutinies during the Lenten season to help them examine their lives. The community will also pray that the Elect be freed from temptations and be protected as they continue their journey towards baptism. n jared.ng@catholic.org.sg

Archbishop William Goh holding up the Book of the Elect. He urged those preparing to be baptised in Easter to ‘spend at least half an hour praying to the Lord everyday.’

Working on evangelisation and catechist formation The Office for Catechesis shares more about its work in response to questions from CatholicNews. We present a condensed version of their replies here.

CN: In 2015, during the Rite of Election, Archbishop William Goh said he wanted to see a minimum of 5,000 catechumens a year in eight years’ time, and 15,000 in 17 years’ time. Is the Office for Catechesis (OfC) working to try and achieve this vision?

RCIA process more effectively and how to journey with catechumens during the process and beyond. OfC is currently collaborating with other organisations to look at the pre and post-RCIA process and examine ways to more effectively evangelise catechumens and disciple neophytes.

OfC: OfC is working closely with the Office for New Evangelisation (ONE), alongside other key organisations, to bring across the message that all Catholics are called to the apostolic mission to evangelise.

OfC also offers ongoing formation to equip catechists with evangelisation techniques. For the RCIA ministry in particular, we conduct formation on how to run the

CN: In 2016, during the launch of the Catechetical Year, the archbishop said he felt the main weaknesses in catechesis were a lack of discipleship and a lack of community. Has the Office for Catechesis tried to remedy these issues?

OfC: Since 2010, OfC has been focusing on the formation of catechists as we believe that one has to receive the Good News first

in order to be able to share it effectively.

We have also been offering opportunities to build community among catechists through our courses, events and retreats.

In particular, Craft of Catechesis workshops as well as Commun-Tea events provide avenues for catechists to share best practices and learn from one another. We also have annual Days of Recollection for catechists and this year, we are offering a four-day Kerygma retreat to all those serving catechetical teams.

With regard to parent involvement, OfC runs parent-formation workshops to help catechists reach out to parents through formation and reflection on their role as primary catechists.

OfC is also collaborating with

other organisations such as the Archdiocesan Commission for Families to explore how key stakeholders such as parents can be formed and involved in the catechesis of their children.

OfC’s formation opportunities increased by 30 percent in 2016 over the previous year and is slated to increase by 28 percent this year. In 2016, OfC kickstarted the Archdiocesan Catechetical Trainers (ACT) programme which aims to equip senior catechists to form and mentor catechists.

OfC prays that these ongoing efforts, over time and in collaboration with others, will help the archdiocese to achieve its vision of becoming a vibrant, evangelical and missionary Church. n

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Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

Participants of the Office for Young People’s School of Witness programme pose for a photo with Archbishop William Goh after the Mass marking the end of their eight-week programme.

School of Witness participants learn to be a community of evangelisers

By Christabel Fernandez To mark the end of this year’s School of Witness (SOW) programme, 41 participants were commissioned during a Mass celebrated by Archbishop William Goh on March 3 in the presence of family, friends and SOW alumni.

SOW is an eight-week school of Christian discipleship organised by the Office for Young People (OYP). It aims to deepen the faith of young people through coming to know Christ and discovering themselves and their identity in God. Most of the participants are currently experiencing transitions in their lives. Some are waiting to enter the army, while others are waiting to enter university and to begin a new career path.

During the Mass, Archbishop Goh highlighted the need to be joyful when called to love and serve others, for it is in this joy that one can give wholeheartedly without worry or calculativeness.

The commissioning Mass was followed by a showcase of various creative pieces by the SOW participants as well as testimonies by three young people who shared how their personal experience of God’s love had empowered them.

This year’s SOW, centred around the theme “I was once blind, but now I see” (John 9:25), saw participants aged 19-33 journeying together in a live-in community setting. Discipline and respect were stressed as part of character building and this was encouraged through daily reflections on a particular virtue.

Participants deep in prayer.

The school was run under the spiritual direction of OYP chaplains Fr Brian D’Souza and Fr Jude David together with OYP staff.

The school was divided into two sections. In the first four weeks, participants concentrated on growing in their faith through sessions on the Trinity and their identity in Christ, studying topics like Theology of the Body and the sacraments, and learning to evangelise.

Participants were placed into groups of four under the care of a group leader. They were also grouped according to gender which made it more conducive for sharing and growth.

The second half of SOW saw participants preparing for outreach through creative expressions of the Gospel, writing and presenting their personal testimonies as well as learning to lead praise-and-worship sessions.

We have stumbled and fallen in these ‘ eight weeks but our community of SOWers picked each other up ... We entered as strangers, we left as family in Christ.

’

– Mr Leonard Teo, a School of Witness participant

Participants then reached out to junior college students, universities, various parishes and the Nox Gaudii event at the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd.

Mr Leonard Teo, 21, commented on his experience of living in community, “We have stumbled and fallen in these eight weeks but our community of SOWers picked each other up and continued walking towards Jesus.

We entered as strangers, we left as family in Christ.”

Mr Marcus Yee, 21, shared that his “life as a Catholic had been one that was fickle and underdeveloped. I never thought of God in my life and only prayed when I was in need of divine intervention or due to obligation. I’ve come to understand the need to build a personal relationship with God and I’m beginning to understand the depth of my faith and what is required of me to live a life for Christ.”

If you are between the ages of 16 (post-confirmation) to 35 and wish to find out more about OYP, visit www.oyp.org.sg, write to info.oyp@catholic.org.sg like its Facebook page or follow it on Instagram: oyp.sg n

Young people put on a dance at the Church of St Vincent de Paul as part of their outreach programme.

Participants hold a worship session with Singapore Management University students.

Sports and games were also part of the activities at the School of Witness live-in programme.

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Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

A grateful heart: the foundation for evangelisation SINGAPORE – At the closing cel-

ebrations of the Mar Thoma Syrian Church’s 80th anniversary in Singapore, Archbishop William Goh was invited to speak on the theme, “Speak Lord, Your Servant is Listening” (1 Samuel 3:9).

He applauded the community for their active witnessing to the workings of the Lord in their life.

Reminding them that the basis for evangelisation is a grateful heart, he cited several reasons to be thankful: for the gift of encountering God, for His merciful love, for being chosen and sent. Sharing

God’s Word, good works, living exemplary lives and testifying to what He has done for us are ways in which we can show our gratitude.

However, the archbishop stressed that effective witnessing can only take place if we make an effort to encounter God daily through prayer and contemplation on His Word.

In his congratulations to Rev John G Mathews, Vicar of the Mar Thoma Syrian Church in Singapore, and the Mar Thoma Syrian Church community for their

work here, Archbishop Goh also thanked them for their ecumenical efforts in promoting unity among all Christians.

Also present at the celebrations were Bishop Terry Kee, Head of the Lutheran Church in Singapore; Rev Fr Aby M Thomas, Vicar of St Thomas Syrian Orthodox Cathedral; and Rev Fr Sanu Mathew, Vicar of St Mary’s Jacobite Syrian Cathedral. n Submitted by THE ROMAN CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESAN COMMUNICATIONS OFFICE

Photographs for the event may be viewed at www.flickr.com/catholicsg/albums

Present at the Mar Thoma Syrian Church’s 80th anniversary celebrations (from left): Rev John G Mathews, Vicar of the Mar Thoma Syrian Church in Singapore (host); Archbishop William Goh; Bishop Terry Kee of the Lutheran Church of Singapore; and Rev Jacob Johnson, Vicar, CSI (Church of South India) Immanuel Congregation in Singapore.

Korean celebs make rosaries

Seoul – Paul Kim Tae-won from Boohwal, a famous Korean rock band, and his wife, Pauline Lee Hyun-joo, have found a special way to help others. Just buying a rosary can help raise money for people with developmental disabilities like autism.

Lee makes the “Happiness Sharing Rosaries” by herself, at a rate of 15 a day. They are all limited edition and she started 10 years ago. Kim purchases the materials, including pearls imported from the Philippines.

“I’m making the rosaries with a heart wishing God’s grace to be granted to the new owners because God’s grace is endless,” said Lee, who has a son with autism.

Lee said that by making the rosaries, she began healing the scars

she received when other people poured judgement upon her disabled son. Then she began sharing her rosaries with neighbours.

“I felt happy making and presenting the rosaries to neighbours. I

I felt happy making and ‘presenting the rosaries to neighbours. I pray while making them.

’

– Pauline Lee Hyun-joo

pray while making them,” Lee said.

As her skills improved, more people wanted her rosaries. She began donating them to Korean shrines and parishes to sell and raise money.

Gaining confidence, Lee started to sell them to fund welfare centres for people with developmental disabilities.

“Lots of people don’t know what a developmental disability is,” she said.

Kim said, “I hope society can care for children with developmental disabilities like my son even after we parents pass away. At least, I wish our children would not receive strange looks. Our rosaries, I hope, will be a small step towards treating disabled people better.”

Lee also sought help from the Catholic Publishing House of Seoul archdiocese which has a distribution network to sell her rosaries. Now, they are sold in the Catholic Center in Seoul and Myeongdong Cathedral. n UCANEWS.COM

Church loans help small-time offenders avoid prison South Korea – More than 400 small-time criminal offenders in South Korea have been assisted by a credit scheme set up by the Catholic Church that helps them to pay off their fines and avoid jail time.

Named the Jean Valjean Bank, after the main character from Les Miserables who spent 19 years in prison for stealing a loaf of bread, the microcredit scheme came into being because thousands of

small-time offenders were being imprisoned as they were unable to pay their fines. To pay off their fines they had to do forced labour.

Established in February 2015, the scheme has offered 429 smalltime offenders loans totalling US$720,000 (S$1 million).

Bishop Peter Kang U-il of Cheju is an advisor to the bank that is supervised by a steering committee of 10 members including Fr Elias Lim Yong-hwan,

former director of Catholic Urban Poor Pastoral Committee of Seoul archdiocese, and Ms Teresa Ahn Curie, professor at the Catholic University of Korea.

“If the criminal offenders who have to go prison due to unfair reasons disappear, our bank will naturally close its door. I wish the day would come soon,” said Mr Luke Oh Chang-ik, a member of the loan appraisal committee. n UCANEWS.COM

ASIA 11

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

Vietnam’s Catholics urged to aid families in need during Lent

Church against casino plan

CNS file photo

HO CHI MINH CITY – Vietnamese

bishops have called upon Catholics to assist families in need during Lent as part of a three-year ministry inspired by Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation on the family.

Bishop Paul Nguyen Thai Hop of Vinh diocese wrote a Lenten letter that was read out during weekend Masses on March 3-4.

“This Lent, I would like to invite all parishes to journey with young couples and families in need,” he said in the letter.

Bishop Hop said that caring for young couples and those in irregular unions is an urgent task in the diocese where there are 550,000 Catholics.

He called on parish priests to organise seminars and courses for married couples in accordance with Pope Francis’ Amoris Laetitia and the Vietnamese bishops’ Letter for Catholic Families issued on Nov 20.

The Vietnamese bishops recently launched a 2017-2019 family ministry programme – Preparations for Youth Entering Married Life, Journeying With Young Families and Journeying

Newly baptised Catholics hold candles in a church in Vietnam. Bishops have urged Catholics to journey with young couples and families in need.

with Families with Problems – aimed at strengthening marriages.

Bishop Hop asked Catholics to visit and console those whose marriages have ended and to “help them keep their faith strong”.

Archbishop Paul Bui Van Doc of Ho Chi Minh City also urged local priests to encourage those who have divorced and remarried without an annulment to take part in pastoral activities.

He admitted: “Cases of divorce and remarriage today are quite widespread.”

Bishop Joseph Nguyen Nang of Phat Diem in northern Vietnam said that many women resort to divorce due to domestic violence, and fights with their in-laws.

He urged families to show mercy to one another. “Only mercy heals suffering in familial and social life,” he said. n UCANEWS.COM

MANILA – Catholic Church leaders in the southern Philippine region of Mindanao have stepped up a campaign against a plan to open a casino in the city of Cagayan de Oro. The planned casino will be housed A Philippine archbishop says gambling creates in a mall complex problems in society. near a Catholic church and a university.

“And because it is in front of “We cannot turn a blind eye to the negative effects that gambling an educational institution and near institutions will create in our soci- places of worship, it could result ety,” read a pastoral letter issued in the erosion of the values system

by Archbishop Antonio Ledesma of our young people,” said Archbishop Ledesma. of Cagayan de Oro. The proposed casino is expectThe Church leader said the planned location for the casino in ed to generate revenue for the city the heart of the city “will be high- and provide jobs for residents. n UCANEWS.COM ly inviting for [people] to enter”.

12 ASIA

Church takes lead in Timor-Leste presidential campaign Timor Leste – In a sign of how much in-

fluence the Catholic Church retains in Timor-Leste, all eight presidential candidates together with 5,000 people joined a prayer rally in Dili to mark the start of campaigning ahead of the March 20 election.

In acknowledgement of the country’s turbulent past since its colonial Portuguese masters left in 1975, candidates signed an agreement for a peaceful campaign on white linen after walking and chanting the rosary on March 2 from St Joseph’s Church to a Marian shrine next to the Dili bishop’s residence.

The campaign, in which Mr Francisco Guterres Lu-Olo is seen as the front-runner, kicked off on March 3 and ends on March 17.

The presidential election will be followed by elections for the nation’s one house parliament in July where the party with the most seats chooses the prime minister.

“The Church wants leaders who love peace and embrace all elements of society to ensure growth in all aspects,” Bishop Virgilio do Carmo da Silva of Dili said after the march.

“Everyone should accept whoever wins the presidential race on March 20,” he added.

Mr Jose Ramos-Horta, former TimorLeste president and Noble Peace Prize laureate, called on all political leaders to follow a peace agreement – facilitated by the Catholic Church – that ended civil strife following independence from Indonesia.

“As Christians we all should love peace, which is the cultural identity of Timor,” he said. n UCANEWS.COM

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

Philippines poised to reinstate death penalty, bishops oppose MANILA – The Philippines stands poised to

reinstate the death penalty after it was put on hold 11 years ago. The Church in the Philippines, which has grown more vocal in recent months, continues to oppose the measure that passed the Philippine House on the third and final reading on March 7.

Archbishop Socrates Villegas of Lingayen-Dagupan, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines, lamented that the Lower House “has given its consent for the state to kill.”

“We, your bishops, are overcome with grief, but we are not defeated nor shall we be silenced,” Archbishop Villegas said.

“In the midst of Lent we prepare to celebrate the triumph of life over death, and while we grieve that the Lower House has voted for death, our faith assures us that life will triumph,” he said.

At the same time, the archbishop called on Filipinos who stand for life to continue the “spirited opposition” to the death penalty.

In the months and weeks leading up to the Congressional votes on the measure, the bishops’ conference has posted statements opposing the death penalty and led marches against it, reiterating that life is sacred and that the death penalty would not put an end to crime.

Since taking office in late June, Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte has pursued drug dealers and addicts with laser-like focus. In July, his close associates in Congress filed a bill to reinstate the death penalty to support his tough-on-crime stance.

Filipinos protest against plans to reimpose the death penalty at the Walk for Life event in Manila on Feb 18. Bishops in the Philippines reiterated their opposition to the death penalty which is set to be reinstated in the country. CNS photo

So far in Mr Duterte’s “war on drugs,” which started even before he was sworn in, more than 7,000 mostly poor people have been killed in both police operations and unexplained killings of alleged drug offenders. Currently, drug offences carry sentences ranging from 12 years to life in prison, along with fines.

“Certainly we are for the campaign against drugs, and we know drugs can have very serious harmful effects on families,”

said Archbishop Antonio Ledesma of Cagayan de Oro. “But also we would like to say that drug offenders should not be subject to the death penalty, because it’s not a humane and Christian way of dealing with the problem.”

Archbishop Ledesma, a strong critic of Mr Duterte in the final days before the May elections, told Catholic News Service that instead of putting drug criminals to death, the country needs to address the “root causes of poverty” and pursue rehabilitation. n cns

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California bishops urge easing ‘climate of fear’ in country CNS photo

WASHINGTON – The bishops of

California say they are concerned about widespread deportations in the country that will break up families and communities in the wake of the recent crackdown on undocumented immigrants.

In a Lent message issued on Ash Wednesday, the California Catholic Conference asked the Trump administration and Congress to “ease the climate of fear that is now gripping our communities”. They also asked Catholics and “people of goodwill” to stand in solidarity with the “vulnerable and excluded in our society”.

The conference, which is the public policy arm of the state’s bishops, asked for reforms in visa and guest worker programmes, reforms that keep families together, due process for those who are detained and an “immediate path to regularise” the status of “those who are here and contribute to our economy and society but without documentation … with an eye to one day becoming citizens.”

They noted that “fear is now growing in our neighbourhoods and schools.”

“The work of businesses and farms is being disrupted. We seem to be turning away from our nation’s long history of renewal and innova-

People protesting against US President Donald Trump’s immigration policy in New York City. The California bishops note that the US seems to be turning away from its legacy of welcoming those fleeing violence in other countries.

tion inspired by successive generations of immigrants and refugees.

“We are a nation of immigrants. We have a long history of welcoming those fleeing violence in other countries. We should not turn our back on this proud legacy, especially in this current moment in our history.”

Proposals for reform should address immigration in a “compassionate, thoughtful manner,

and we encourage our political leaders to find bipartisan solutions,” the statement said.

While the bishops of California, as well as of the US, are concerned and support the federal government in protecting borders and upholding immigration laws, legal principles should be “at the service of human dignity and common good of society” the bishops said. n CNS

Vatican aids farmers affected by quake VATICAN CITY – In an effort to help support the economy of the central Italian region devastated by several earthquakes in 2016, the Vatican has purchased food from local farmers and producers to feed the homeless.

Pope Francis instructed his almoner, Archbishop Konrad Krajewski, to purchase large quantities of food from central Italy, known for its delectable selection of meats, cheeses and wine.

Working with bishops from the

devastated areas, Archbishop Krajewski purchased products from “several groups of farmers and producers whose businesses were at risk of closing due to the damage caused by the earthquake”, the Vatican said in a Feb 23 statement.

“The papal almoner proceeded to purchase a large quantity of their products with the intention, expressed by the Holy Father, of helping them and encouraging them to continue their activities,” the Vatican said.

All the products purchased by the papal almoner’s office will be distributed to soup kitchens in Rome that prepare meals for the city’s needy and homeless people.

The Vatican City State supermarket, which is open to Vatican employees and pensioners, also has made central Italian food products available for purchase.

Both projects are gestures of support for the local economy, struggling after major earthquakes last August and October. n CNS

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Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

Vatican, Islamic university ask world to stop religious extremism CNS file photo

CAIRO – The Vatican and al-Azhar

University, Sunni Islam’s leading institution of higher learning, called for the world’s governments, organisations and leaders to cooperate with each other in countering extremist and violent groups, noting that such groups “have negatively impacted stability and peaceful coexistence among peoples.”

In the final statement after a Feb 22-23 symposium at the Cairo university, representatives of al-Azhar and the Vatican called for finding realistic ways to fight terrorism and terrorist organisations: cutting off resources, including money and weapons, or closing down social communications that spread extremist ideologies to young people.

They also called for eliminating the “spirit of hatred and animosity for religions and defaming religious symbols, since these are hostile actions.”

The joint statement pointed to the need to address the “causes of the phenomena of extremism, violence, poverty, ignorance and the political abuse of religion and incorrect understanding of religious texts.”

Leaders must pay attention to issues that concern young people and open dialogue with them, explaining true concepts of religions.

The statement advocated an educa-

The joint statement pointed to the need to address the ‘causes of the phenomena of extremism, violence, poverty, ignorance and the political abuse of religion and incorrect understanding of religious texts’.

Pope Francis talks with Ahmad el-Tayeb, grand imam of Egypt’s al-Azhar mosque and university, in 2016. In a statement after a recent symposium, the Vatican and al-Azhar University called for the world’s governments to cooperate with each other and counter extremist groups.

tional curriculum “that establishes the common human values, taking into consideration women and youth issues and bearing the responsibility of caring for children.”

The symposium concluded on the vigil of the anniversary of the visit of St John Paul II to al-Azhar in 2000.

Cardinal Jean-Louis Tauran,

president of the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, led the 15-member Vatican delegation. A Vatican delegation member, Maronite Fr Fadi Daou, chairman of Adyan, a foundation for interfaith studies and spiritual solidarity based in Lebanon, told the symposium that Pope Francis “is continuously affirming the double responsibility

of all believers to delegitimise religious violence, on the one hand, and to engage in limiting its effect and build peace on the other hand.”

“As strongly stated by Pope Francis, every religion can and should be a source for peace and coexistence; yet any religion can be used for violence legitimisation,” Fr Daou added.

Organised by the Al-Azhar Al-Sharif Centre for Dialogue and the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue, the meeting represented a resumption in the dialogue established in 1998 between the two institutions. It also follows the landmark meeting at the Vatican on May 23, 2016, between Pope Francis and the university’s grand imam, Ahmad el-Tayeb. n CNS

World 15

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

God’s voice is heard through humility VATICAN CITY – Humility is need-

Andrew Garfield stars as Fr Sebastian Rodrigues in a scene from the movie Silence. Garfield underwent the spiritual exercises of St Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, as part of his preparation for playing a Jesuit priest in the film. CNS photo

Ignatian spiritual exercises helped actor in priest role WASHINGTON – Actor Andrew Garfield underwent the spiritual exercises of St Ignatius of Loyola, founder of the Society of Jesus, as part of his preparation for playing a Jesuit priest in Martin Scorsese’s new film, Silence.

Garfield’s spiritual adviser for this Jesuit journey was Jesuit Fr James Martin, editor at large of America magazine, a Jesuit journal, and the author of several books.

“I studied with Fr Martin all things Jesuit and attempted to crack what it means to be a soldier for Christ. The basis of that was the exercises for me,” Garfield told Catholic News Service (CNS) in a telephone interview from New York.

The movie, set in 17th-century Japan, deals with doubt, human frailty and fidelity.

Garfield was also given a small mountain of books and films by Scorsese to prepare him for the role of Fr Sebastian Rodrigues, a Portuguese Jesuit who goes to Japan in hopes of refuting a report that a favourite priest who once taught him in the seminary had renounced the faith during his missionary work there.

Upon reading the script, Gar-

field said, “I really connected to the material. I was really interested in the themes and the journey the character goes on.”

Another key aspect of his preparation for the role was fasting so Garfield’s frame would look believable on screen. “The physical rigour of losing weight was very, very, very painful and tricky, and created a tremendous kind of psychosis, but it was also very useful and was the only appropriate thing. ... It was a spiritual process as well.

It was a very immersive thing that I’m grateful for,” he said.

Garfield said his takeaway from Silence is “endless. What I’ve been given by playing this role and being with Marty Scorsese, being with Fr Martin, doing the exercises, it’s impossible to sum up. I’ve been given so many different graces for the whole experience ...The year of preparation, those months making the film were worth it.”

Mr John Mulderig, CNS’ associate director for media reviews said, Silence is a “dramatically powerful but theologically complex work best suited to viewers who come to the multiplex prepared to engage with serious issues.” n CNS

Diocese helps parishes become Internet savvy KOREA – Pusan diocese in Ko-

rea has developed a smartphonefriendly Internet platform so parishes can easily establish a stylish Internet presence for their blog or homepage.

The Parish Homepage of Pusan Diocese was created by its Social Communication and Computer Department and took a year to develop.

Currently, 24 parishes and seven diocesan institutions have established homepages on the platform.

The platform has been designed so that anyone with a basic knowledge of web pages, blog-

ging and email can easily manage the parish homepages. Any gaps in an administrator’s knowledge will be plugged by the Pusan Social Communication and Computer Department which offers training on how to use the new platform.

“This year, the pastoral motto of our diocese is the ‘Year of Evangelisation.’ I hope the new Internet platform will be a tool to help the faithful lead their Christian lives in the parishes,” said Fr Francis Lee Sung-joo, social communications and computer director of Pusan diocese. n UCANEWS.COM

ed in order to recognise the voice of God in others, especially those who are perceived to be weak or subject to prejudice, a Franciscan friar told Pope Francis and members of the Roman Curia during their Lenten retreat.

God not only speaks through Jesus, but also speaks through Peter, who recognises Christ as the Messiah “by revelation,” Franciscan Fr Giulio Michelini said on March 6, according to Vatican Radio.

“Do we have the humility to listen to one another, paying attention to prejudices that we certainly have, but attentive to receive that which God wants to say despite – perhaps – my closures?

The pope and top members of the Roman Curia attended their annual Lenten retreat from March 5-10 at the Pauline Fathers’ retreat center in Ariccia, southeast of Rome.

Fr Michelini was chosen by Pope Francis to lead meditations on the Gospel of Matthew’s de-

scription of the passion, death and resurrection of Jesus.

According to Vatican Radio, Fr Michelini called on the 74 people present for the retreat to reflect on the criteria on which they base their discernment and whether “I place myself and my personal benefit before the kingdom of God.” Fr Michelini explained that the reading of Christ’s Passion reveals two distinct types of logic: Jesus, an observant Jewish layman preparing to celebrate the Passover, and the high priests, who are concerned with the outward appearance of the feast but, at the same time, “prepare to murder an innocent man.”

The question Christians must ask themselves, he said, is if they are “sacred professionals resorting to compromise in order to save the facade, the institution, at the expense of individual rights.”

“This is about an attitude that loses the right perspective, believing they are serving God,” Fr Michelini said. n CNS

‘I’ve been given so many different graces for the whole experience.’

– Andrew Garfield on his experience preparing for and acting in the movie, Silence.

Pope Francis attends the first day of his Lenten retreat at the Pauline Fathers’ retreat centre. The pope and top members of the Roman Curia were on retreat from March 5-10. CNS photo

16 pope francis

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

Read the Bible as often as you check your mobile phone: pope CNS file photo

VATICAN CITY – Christians should

care about reading God’s messages in the Bible as much as they care about checking messages on their mobile phones, Pope Francis said.

As Christ did in the desert when tempted by Satan, men and women can defend themselves from temptation with the Word of God if they “read it often, meditate on it and assimilate it” into their lives, he said before praying the Angelus with those gathered in St Peter’s Square on March 5.

“What would happen ... if we opened [the Word of God] more times a day, if we read the messages of God contained in the Bible the way we read messages on our cellphones?” the pope asked the crowd.

The pope’s reflection centred on the day’s Gospel reading (Mt. 4:1-11) in which Jesus is tempted by the devil while fasting in the desert for 40 days and nights before beginning His ministry.

Christians, the pope said, are called to follow Jesus’ footsteps and “confront the spiritual combat against the evil one” through the power of God’s word which has the “strength to defeat Satan”.

Pope Francis laughs during an evening prayer service at All Saints’ Anglican Church in Rome. It was the first time a pope has visited an Anglican place of worship in Rome. CNS photo

‘We are on a journey,’ says pontiff at Anglican church ‘What would happen ... if we read the messages of God contained in the Bible the way we read messages on our cellphones?’ Pope Francis asked.

“The Bible contains the Word of God, which is always relevant and effective. Someone once said: What would happen if we treated the Bible like we treated our cellphones? What would happen if we always brought it with us, or at least a small pocket-sized Gospel?” he asked.

While the comparison between

the Bible and a cellphone is “paradoxical”, he added, it is something that all Christians are called to reflect on during the Lenten season.

“If we have the Word of God always in our hearts, no temptation could separate us from God and no obstacle would deviate us from the path of good,” the pope said.

After praying the Angelus prayer with the faithful in the square, Pope Francis asked for prayers before departing for a weeklong Lenten retreat with members of the Roman Curia.

Lent, he said, “is the path of the people of God towards Easter, a path of conversion, of fighting evil with the weapons of prayer, fasting and works of charity,” Pope Francis said. “I wish everyone a fruitful Lenten journey.” n CNS

ROME – Pope Francis made history as the first pontiff to visit an Anglican church in Rome.

He was invited by the Anglican community and took part in an evening liturgy at the All Saints’ Anglican Church on Feb 26. He also blessed an icon of Christ the Saviour to commemorate the 200th anniversary of the church’s establishment in Rome.

The path towards Christian unity can’t be found isolated in a laboratory hashing out theological differences, but rather by walking together on a common journey, Pope Francis said.

While theological dialogue is necessary, Catholics and Anglicans can continue to “help each other in our needs, in our lives and help each other spiritually,” he said as he answered questions from parishioners.

“We are on a journey and while we walk, we can have these [theological] discussions,” he said.

The prayer service included a “twinning” pledge between All Saints’ Anglican Church and the Catholic parish that shares its name in Rome. As Pope Francis looked on, the pastors of both parishes signed a pledge to collaborate in joint retreats, works of charity and sharing meals with each other.

The pope acknowledged that much has changed between Anglicans and Catholics, “who in the past viewed each other with suspicion and hostility”.

“Today, with gratitude to God, we recognise one another as we truly are: brothers and sisters in Christ, through our common baptism. As friends and pilgrims, we wish to walk the path together, to follow our Lord Jesus Christ together,” he said.

He also emphasised the need for Catholics and Anglicans to work together to help those in need, in order to build “true, solid communion” through a “united witness to charity”. n CNS

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

pope francis 17

Pope: Lent breathes life into world choked by sin ROME – Lent is a time to receive people in order to save them from God’s breath of life, a breath that the suffocation of “petty ambisaves humanity from suffocating tion” and “silent indifference.” under the weight of selfishness, “The breath of God’s life sets indifference and piety devoid of us free from the asphyxia that so sincerity, Pope Francis said. often we fail to notice or become “Lent is the time to say no to so used to that it seems normal, the asphyxia born of relationships even when its effects are felt,” the that exclude, that try to find God pope said. while avoiding the wounds of The Lenten season, he conChrist present in the wounds of tinued, is a “time for saying no” His brothers and sisters,” the pope to the asphyxia caused by supersaid on March 1 durficial and simplistic ing an Ash Wednesanalyses that “fail to Lent is the day Mass. grasp the complexity Lent, he said, is of problems” of those time to say a time to say “no” to who suffer most. no to the “all those forms of “Lent is the asphyxia spirituality that retime to say no to duce the faith to a the asphyxia of a born of ghetto culture, a culprayer that soothes relationships our conscience, of ture of exclusion.”

The Church’s an almsgiving that that exclude.

Lenten journey toleaves us self-satis– Pope Francis wards the celebration fied, of a fasting that makes us feel good,” of Christ’s passion, death and resurrection is made the pope said.

Instead, Pope Francis said, on a road “leading from slavery to freedom” and “from suffering Lent is a time for Christians to reto joy,” he said. “Lent is a path: It member God’s mercy and “not the leads to the triumph of mercy over time to rend our garments before all that would crush us or reduce evil but rather make room in our us to something unworthy of our life for the good we are able to do.”

“Lent is the time to start breathdignity as God’s children.”

The ashes, while a symbol of ing again. It is the time to open our humanity’s origin from the earth, hearts to the breath of the One cathe pope said, is also a reminder pable of turning our dust into huthat God breathes new life into manity,” the pope said. n CNS

Pope Francis places ashes on a man’s forehead during Ash Wednesday Mass at the Basilica of Santa Sabina in Rome.

CNS photo

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Don’t worry how it’s spent, always give homeless a hand VATICAN CITY – People who don’t

give money to the homeless because they think it will be spent on alcohol and not food should ask themselves what guilty pleasures they are secretly spending money on, Pope Francis said.

“There are many excuses” to justify why one doesn’t lend a hand when asked by a person begging on the street, he said in an interview published the day before the beginning of Lent.

But giving something to someone in need “is always right,” and it should be done with respect and compassion.

The interview, published on Feb 28, was conducted by the monthly magazine, Scarp de’ Tenis (Tennis Shoes), which serves homeless and marginalised people in Milan.

Of the several questions the pope was asked, one focused on whether he thought giving money to people begging on the street was the right thing to do.

One thing people may tell themselves to feel better about not giving anything, the pope said, is “I give money and then he spends it on drinking a glass of wine.”

But, the pope said, if “a glass of wine is the only happiness he has in life, that’s OK. Instead, ask yourself what do you do on the sly? What ‘happiness’ do you seek in secret?”

Or, another way to look at it, the pope said, is recognise how “you are luckier, with a house, a wife, children” and then ask why should the responsibility to help be pushed onto someone else.

When encountering people who live on the street, the pope said he always greets them and sometimes inquires about their lives and background.

He always chatted with a homeless family and couple that lived next to the archbishop’s residence in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he said, and never considered getting rid of them. n CNS

Crossword Puzzle 1180 1

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ACROSS 1 Abraham was one 6 Catholic Oscarwinning actor of “Leaving Las Vegas” fame 10 Green and Pekoe 14 Ishmael, to Jacob 15 Mr. Greenspan 16 Gymnast Korbut 17 What some angels are 19 Trundle 20 Word on a biblical wall

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39 Woman in the Book of Judges who killed Sisera 40 Hairy Addams cousin 41 “They shall ___ their swords into plowshares…”

(Isa 2:4) 42 Pretty girl 43 Three-legged support 45 Milk dispenser 46 Paving substance

33 Papal vestment 34 Sr. Prejean 35 On one’s toes 37 Jesuit who took part in the discovery of the Peking Man 38 Engrossed 39 “Star Wars” warrior 41 Bric-a-___ 42 Some jade sculptures 43 Certain angel 44 Celtic priests 46 Capital of Ghana 47 Article of bedding 48 The Feast of Lots is also called this (Esth 9:24–28) 50 Mount Blanc, for one 52 Smallest component 55 Alphabet string 56 Pay ending 57 Slave Turner 58 Doctors’ org.

59 First name in werewolves

Solution to Crossword Puzzle No. 1179

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

21 Floor covering 23 Reprieve 27 Holy Name ___ 28 Once more 29 Responded in boredom 31 Come with 32 Fine and delicate 33 US government loan source 36 The “B” of N.B. 37 Judah, for example

DOWN 1 Bk. of the Pentateuch 2 “I believe in ___ God…” 3 They may start affairs 4 Roker and Capone 5 Judging 6 Catholic actor of gangster movie fame 7 On sheltered side 8 Freshwater fish 9 Hide securely 10 Oppressively hot 11 Quickly form a union?

12 Shoelace end 13 Saline 18 Jesus told Peter to cast this out 22 ___ deucy 23 Title for Jesus 24 Heron 25 Holy one 26 Yearn deeply 27 Large mop 30 Catholic United States Supreme Court justice

49 Shining 51 The Catholic ___ 52 “___ Lang Syne” 53 King mackerel 54 Mass response 60 Restraint 61 Large crucifix 62 Fort in the San Antonio diocese 63 “Hey, don’t look ___!”

64 Foot drs.

65 Lucifer

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18 opinion

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

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REFLECTION

Going for confession: a tale of humour, grace and blessings

By Maureen Pratt “Confession is good for the soul,” they say. I agree. I also find that it helps us to live well no matter what our station or situation in life, especially if we make it a time to move fully out of our comfort zone.

During Lent and Advent, nearby parishes regularly have reconciliation services that allow us to reflect and prepare for these holy seasons. Often, before our regular parish Saturday evening Mass, the Sacrament of Reconciliation is offered, making it convenient to go to confession and Mass in one trip.

This year, I want to make a robust effort to revisit the Sacrament of Reconciliation when it might not be at the forefront of my schedule or mind, or even be convenient. This decision has led already to humour, grace and a tale to tell.

A recent Saturday ended a week punctuated by heavy rain, wind and very cool temperatures. I was snug inside, but decided to unwrap myself from the comfort of home and go to confession. The church I selected was in a very heavily trafficked area of the city. On a Saturday afternoon after a blustery, stormy week, I realised it would be next to impossible to find a nearby parking space.

This got my mind a-worrying:

People wait in line to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Going for regular confession allows one the chance to reflect and prepare for holy seasons such as Lent. CNS file photo

Over Christmas, my car had been burgled, and since then I’d been especially vigilant about keeping it close no matter where I parked.

But even with the rawness of my recent experience, I still went forth.

True to my hunch, traffic was thick and spaces all along the way were full ... except as I turned the corner in the last block. Right in front of the church was an empty parking space! I have to admit I was a little anxious about what God had in store that it was so easy to park my car and save me a long walk in the chill. But I had no excuse now!

I noticed there were others entering the church, so I sat in a pew and read a page from the devotional I’d brought with me.

Gradually, my breathing slowed and I began to pray with my eyes fixed on the beautiful crucifix just

behind the altar. Mundane concerns faded as I remembered the magnificent sacrifice made so that I could sit in silent reverence.

A feeling of disappointment in myself washed over me as I realised how small my thoughts had been before, when I’d worried about finding a parking space. Such a petty thing, compared to Jesus’ act of selfless love. And with that realisation, my whole body relaxed.

I could say that the reconciliation was in those moments before I went in to the confessional. But really the entire experience was necessary – private prayer, the reflection and the sacrament. Confession is good for the soul. And it helps us readjust so that our lives focus, not on that proverbial open parking space, but on the wide open arms of Jesus on the cross. n CNS

Gradually, my breathing slowed and I began to pray with my eyes fixed on the beautiful crucifix.

Mundane concerns faded.

Of ‘winners’ and ‘losers’ Our society tends to divide us up into winners and losers. Sadly, we don’t often reflect on how this affects our relationships with each other, nor on what it means for us as Christians.

What does it mean? In essence, that our relationships with each other are too charged with competition and jealousy because we are too infected with the drive to out-do, out-achieve, and out-hustle each other. For example, here are some of slogans that pass for wisdom today: Win! Be the best at something! Show others you’re more talented than they are! Show that you are more sophisticated than others! Don’t apologise for putting yourself first! Don’t be a loser!

These phrases aren’t just innocent axioms cheerleading us to work harder; they’re viruses infecting us so that most everything in our world now conspires with the narcissism within us to push us to achieve, to set ourselves apart from others, to stand out, to be at the top of the class, to be the best athlete, the best dressed, the best looking, the most musically talented, the most popular, the most experienced, the most travelled, the one who knows most about cars, or movies, or history, or sex, or whatever. At all costs we drive ourselves to find something at which we can beat others. At all costs we try to somehow set ourselves apart from and above others. That idea is almost genetically ingrained in us now.

And because of that we tend to tend to misjudge others and misjudge our own meaning and purpose. We structure everything too much around achieving and standing out. When we achieve, when we win, when we are better than others at something, our lives seem fuller; our self-image inflates and we feel confident and worthwhile.

Conversely, when we cannot stand out, when we’re just another face in the crowd, we struggle to maintain a healthy self-image.

Either way, we are forever struggling with jealousy and dissatisfaction because we cannot help constantly seeing our own lack of talent, beauty, and achievement in relationship to other’s successes. And so we both envy and hate those who are talented, beautiful, powerful, rich, and famous, holding them up for adulation even as we secretly wait for their downfall, like the crowd that praises Jesus on Palm Sunday and then screams for His crucifixion just five days later.

This leaves us in an unhappy place: How do we form community with each other when our very talents and achievements are cause for jealousy and resentment, when they’re sources of envy and weapons of competition? How do we love each other when our competitive spirits make us see each other as rivals?

Community can only happen when we can let the talents and achievements of others enhance our own lives and we can let our own talents and achievements enhance, rather than threaten, others. But we’re generally incapable of this. We’re too infected with competitiveness to allow ourselves not to let the achievements and talents of others threaten us and actualise our own talents in a way so as to enhance the lives of others rather than to let ourselves stand out.

Like our culture, we too tend to divide people into winners and losers, admiring and hating the former, looking down on the latter, constantly sizing each other up, rating each other’s bodies, hair, intelligence, clothing, talents and achievements. But, as we do this, we vacillate between feeling depressed and belittled when others outscore us or inflated and pompous when we appear superior to them.

And this becomes ever more difficult to overcome as we become more obsessed with our need to stand out, be special, to sit above, to make a mark for ourselves. We live in a chronic, inchoate jealousy where the talents of others are perennially perceived as a threat to us.

This keeps us both anxious and less than faithful to our Christian faith.

Our Christian faith invites us not to compare ourselves with others, to not make efforts to stand out, and to not let ourselves be threatened by and jealous of other’s gifts. Our faith invites us to join a circle of life with those who believe that there is no need to stand out or be special, and who believe that other people’s gifts are not a threat, but rather something which enriches all lives, our own included.

When we divide people into winners and losers, then our talents and gifts become sources of envy and weapons of competition and superiority. This is true not just for individuals but for nations as well.

One of these competitive slogans within our culture tells us: Show me a good loser and I will show you a loser! Well, seen in this light, Jesus was a loser. People were shaking their heads at His death, and there was no championship ring on His finger. He didn’t look good in the world’s eyes. A loser! But, in His underachieving we all achieved salvation. Somewhere there’s a lesson there! n

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

Faith alive! 19

Different ways to pray, journey during Lent

How various prayers can truly deepen one’s relationship with God

By Effie Caldarola “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.”

These words are from Scripture, in 1 Samuel, chapter 3. The young boy Samuel, the future prophet, awakens the aged Eli because he thinks he has been called by him. But Eli recognises that it is God calling Samuel. When it happens again, Eli says, tell the Lord you are listening.

In a very real sense, these are words we are all called to speak during Lent. During this season when we come close to the suffering Jesus, we desire to let the Lord know we are listening. This listening is called prayer.

During Lent, Catholics are challenged to embrace the season’s three “pillars” – prayer, fasting and almsgiving. A pillar supports something, and in this case, the three pillars, taken together, support a strong Lent, worthy of our call to renewal, repentance and growth.

Keep in mind that just as a three-legged stool collapses if one leg is taken away, so our Lent is not sturdy without an integration of these three principles of growth.

Prayer is integral to a good Lent.

Sometimes, we mistakenly think of prayer as recitation, as somehow scripted for us. In reality, prayer is a relationship. Like Samuel, we are being called into dialogue with God.

Most of us yearn for a deepening prayer life, and Lent, with its focused 40 days, provides a great opportunity.

There are many forms of prayer and no one “best” way to pray. But a good first step is a commitment to a time and place. Prayer may seem ethereal and other-worldly, but the reality is we need a practical, down-to-earth commitment, a real space, an actual time.

Choose a time and stick to it.

For busy parents, it may have to be early morning before others arise or the half-hour after kids are in bed.

Maybe it’s a few minutes at lunchtime or a few minutes of quiet meditation after early morning Mass.

Place is also important. Find a peaceful, quiet place with no distractions. Don’t set yourself up for failure by overcommitting to time. Choose a realistic time period that’s doable for you.

But how to pray? How to find God’s voice inside our noisy minds and busy schedules? How to quiet down and listen?

“Lectio divina” is an ancient form of prayer that’s accessible to all. The Church provides daily Scripture readings that can be the gateway to prayer.

Choose a daily reading and go through it slowly. Pause and recall a word or phrase that particularly speaks to you. Spend time reflecting on what moves you. Then slowly read the entire text again

Many find the Stations of the Cross a helpful prayer that can lead one into a deep experience of Christ’s passion and a deeper love for Him.

A man prays during Mass. The season of Lent offers Catholics an opportunity to renew their faith through prayer, fasting and almsgiving. CNS photo

to put the phrase into context and explore deeper meaning.

Another helpful use of Scripture is sometimes called “Gospel contemplation.” St Ignatius of Loyola, the founder of the Jesuits, urged praying with the imagination by selecting a Gospel passage, reading it carefully and then putting yourself into the experience.

Perhaps you can imagine yourself as the Samaritan who stops to help the wounded victim, or perhaps you are the Levite passing by, or a bystander.

During Lent, many find the Stations of the Cross a helpful prayer that can lead you into a deep experience of Christ’s passion and a deeper love for Him.

Or perhaps committing to a time of Eucharistic adoration will help you find the intimacy and silence that bring you to prayer. Others may find that a daily prayer walk is helpful.

The “examen” is a powerful daily prayer. It allows you to review the preceding 24 hours with gratitude, focusing on what was life-giving and what was not.

The “examen” helps you examine where you felt the hand of God and how you responded to God’s will and where you fell short.

No matter the prayer method you choose, a prayer journal helps. After you have prayed, write down what you have felt and “heard” during prayer.

Choose the method that is best for you. The important thing to remember is that God is in control and is infinitely merciful and gracious towards our failings and our efforts. n cns Caldarola is a freelance writer and a columnist for Catholic News Service.

The significance and meaning of fasting

By David Gibson Fasting is a paradox for Christians. It encompasses seemingly contradictory intentions.

First, fasting appears to possess a negative quality. It asks us to do less of something – to eat less, to reduce the amount of our TV viewing or curtail our spending and the time devoted to shopping, for example.

When this effort does not prove easy, fasting sometimes becomes a singular focus of attention as one tries and tries to succeed in its outward goal.

Yet, the goal of fasting is positive. It aims to shift attention away from something we relish and onto areas of life that deserve to be relished far more.

So fasting is confusing. Maybe Christians need to ask again and again, “Why do we fast?”

Fasting from something is not an end in itself. Fasting points beyond itself.

Thus, the degree of hunger felt

Fasting helps to ‘focus our attention, move our hearts’ and ‘give vision and insight.’

– Canadian Archbishop Paul-Andre Durocher of Gatineau, Quebec

People receive food rations at a community soup kitchen. Fasting can prompt Christians to identify with the hungers of the poor. CNS photo

after consuming a simple Lenten soup supper can prompt Christians to refocus attention on profound hungers of another kind – the hunger to reconcile a hurting human relationship, the hungers of the poor or the hunger to comprehend

better what God is asking of me.

Fasting in Lent, along with prayer and almsgiving, is a way of “deepening our spiritual life,” Pope Francis said in his 2017 Lenten message.

The problem with fasting is

that one so easily loses sight of its essentially positive, spiritual characteristic. The goal in what we do not do is neither to weaken nor discourage us but to encourage growth and to enrich our faith.

Canadian Archbishop PaulAndre Durocher of Gatineau, Quebec, had in mind the images of drowned Middle East refugee children, when in 2015 he spoke of meditation, prayer and fasting.

Fasting helps to “focus our attention, move our hearts” and “give vision and insight,” according to the archbishop. He accorded a place to fasting on a list of ways to support refugees fleeing

violence in their homelands.

Fasting from food is a practice rooted deeply in Judaeo-Christian history. Scripture links it directly to actions that provide care for others. Describing the kind of fasting God desires, the biblical Book of Isaiah makes this clear, saying: “Is this not, rather, the fast that I choose: releasing those bound unjustly, untying the thongs of the yoke; Setting free the oppressed, breaking off every yoke?

Is it not sharing your bread with the hungry, bringing the afflicted and the homeless into your house; Clothing the naked when you see them?” (Is 58:6-7).

Fasting is not a passive action for Christians, something simply to undergo or suffer through. Paradoxically, it is meant to set the wheels of the mind and spirit into motion, and to reawaken us to the overlooked and unresolved challenges in our actual lives. n cns Gibson served on Catholic News Service’s editorial staff for 37 years.

20

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

By Jennifer Ficcaglia Jacob had 12 sons. His favourite was one of the youngest ones, Joseph.

Jacob loved Joseph so much that he gave the boy a special coat that was very beautiful.

Joseph’s brothers were jealous and began to hate him. They hated him even more after the boy told his family about some of his dreams.

In one of the dreams, Joseph saw 11 stars, the sun and the moon, all of which bowed down before him.

Joseph’s brothers were angry when they heard this, and even Jacob scolded the boy. They thought it was wrong for Joseph to think his elders would bow before him.

One day, Joseph’s brothers were tending the flocks, and Jacob asked Joseph to see how they were doing.

When the brothers saw Joseph

approaching, they started to grumble.

“Here comes that master dreamer!” they said. “Come on, let us kill him and throw him into one of the cisterns here; we could say that a wild beast devoured him. We shall then see what comes of his dreams.”

One of the brothers, Reuben, stopped them.

“Instead of shedding blood,” he said, “just throw him into that cistern there in the desert; but do not kill him outright.”

Reuben planned to rescue Joseph and return him to Jacob unharmed.

So when Joseph reached his brothers, he was stripped of his special coat and thrown into the cistern. Then his brothers went to have something to eat.

While they ate, they decided to sell Joseph instead of killing him. So the brothers sold the boy for 20 pieces of silver. He was taken to Egypt,

Spotlight on Saints:

St Lucy Filippini St Lucy Filippini was born in Italy in 1672. She was orphaned when she was a little girl, but the bishop of Montefiascone and Corneto, Italy, acted like a father towards her.

The bishop was very interested in educating children, especially young women. When she was older, Lucy helped him and Blessed Rose Venerini form the Institute of the Maestre Pie. She also helped create and maintain girls’ schools in that diocese and beyond.

The institute eventually became known as the Religious Teachers Filippini. It helped to educate many women before people were required to go to school.

St Lucy died in 1732. We remember her on March 25. n

where he became the slave of the pharaoh’s chief steward.

When Reuben returned to the cistern and found Joseph was gone, he was so upset that he tore his clothes.

The brothers decided to cover up what they had done by killing a goat and dipping Joseph’s coat in the blood. They sent the coat to Jacob.

“My son’s tunic! A wild beast has devoured him! Joseph has been torn to pieces!” Jacob cried

when he saw the coat.

No matter how much his children tried to comfort him, Jacob would not stop mourning the son who he thought was dead. n Read more about it: Genesis 37

Q&A 1. Who was Jacob’s favourite son?

2. Who suggested that Joseph’s life be spared?

Wordsearch: n JOSEPH n JACOB n PHARAOH n SPECIAL n DESERT n SILVER n STEWARD n EGYPT

n COMFORT n DEVOUR n DREAM n RESCUE

ESSAY: Why is it sinful to be jealous of others?

Bible Accent:

Answer to puzzle: Joseph has been torn to pieces.

PUZZLE: Unscramble the letters in each word to form a sentence from the children’s story. seojhp

sah

eneb

––––––

–––

––––

nort ––––

ot

csipee

––

––––––

Answer to Wordsearch

There are many stories in the Bible that talk about people who were jealous and the bad things they did as a result.

For example, in Genesis 4, we read about two brothers, Cain and Abel. When God liked Abel’s offering better than Cain’s, Cain became jealous and killed his brother.

In Genesis 29-30, Jacob married two sisters, Leah and Rachel. Since Jacob loved Rachel but not Leah, God allowed Leah to have children, but not Rachel. Rachel became nasty and competitive towards Leah because she was jealous that Leah could have children.

In 1 Samuel 18, King Saul became jealous of David’s popularity after David killed the Philistine Goliath. King Saul was always plotting to do evil things to David and wanted to kill him. David had to flee from Saul many times to save his life.

God does not want us to be jealous and do bad things because of our jealousy. That is why the last of God’s Ten Commandments in Exodus 20 tells us we should not covet anything that belongs to our neighbours. n

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

EVENT SUBMISSIONS WHAT’S ON submissions now require the completion of a form from the Archdiocese before the event can be publicised. For events with foreign speakers, please submit the necessary documentation for approval to the Chancery. For more information and to download the form, visit http:// www.catholic.org.sg/chancery/ announcement-advertisement-request/.

Once forms have been submitted online, kindly send us details of your event for publication at www. catholicnews.sg/whatson/ at least one month ahead of the publication date. feb 13 to april 17 At Home Retreat Every Monday from 7.15pm-9.30pm.

Venue: Church of Sts Peter and Paul.

A 10-week programme based on the Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius of Loyola, which enables one to know Jesus Christ more intimately in the midst of the daily routine of life. It includes a weekly meeting of faith sharing, daily prayer using Scripture, and spiritual direction.

As the retreat period falls within the Lent season, the retreat theme of “Journeying from Ashes to Easter” would be a timely opportunity for us to deepen our Lenten pilgrimage.

Organised by the Cenacle Sisters. feb 21 to may 23 Discover Ministry and Msgr Ambrose Vaz present: The Gospel of Matthew Discover Ministry and Msgr Ambrose Vaz present the Gospel according to Matthew.

Time: 8pm-10pm. Venue: Church of the Holy Spirit, room #03-11. This Gospel is read at Sunday Mass during Ordinary Time for this liturgical year. Matthew shows us that Jesus is the perfect fulfilment of God’s promises made in the Old Testament as the messiah promised by the prophets. To register: E: kim_f_ ho@yahoo.com; T: 90102829 feb 22 to april 26 SYMBOLON PART TWO A DVD programme. Time: 7.30pm-9.30pm.

Dr Edward Sri and his team of experts from Augustine Institute turn our attention to how we encounter God in the sacraments and the moral life. Organised by Bible Apostolate team. At Church of the Holy Spirit (Room # 03- 11) To register: T: 97848090 (Louisa). Love offerings welcomed. feb 24 to march 31 Walking in the Spirit Every Friday from 8pm-9.30pm at Church of St Bernadette, 12 Zion Rd. Inspiring video talks to help Catholics continue to

RCIA/RCIY A journey for those seeking to know more about the Catholic faith. Baptised Catholics are also invited to journey as sponsors. april 23 to may 20, 2018 RCIA at church of our lady of perpetual succour (OLPS) Time: 7.30pm-9.30pm. Interested to inquire about the Catholic faith? New RCIA Journey will begin with a welcome night on April 23 and thereafter every Sunday evening till May 20, 2018. Please register your name or names of those who are interested in our Catholic faith.

Registration forms are available at the OLPS secretariat or RCIA ministry @ www.olps.sg. For more information, T: 96718216 (Christina); T: 96355635 (Peter) discover the joys of their faith, to open their minds and hearts to the wonder of God, who is at all times guiding their lives. To register: T: 90070987; E: acptcafe@gmail. com with your name and age. Presented by the Archdiocesan CaFE Promotion Team. feb 28 to march 28 Special Needs Catechesis 1 – Understanding & Supporting Young People with Special Needs Time: 7:30pm-10pm. Venue: Catholic Archdiocesan Education Centre 2 Highland Road, S549102. Please register using the link: http://tinyurl.com/hexcsgx.

This course aims to provide participants with an insight into the wide spectrum of physical, intellectual, emotional, behavioural and learning challenges more commonly faced by people with special needs. For more information, T: 68583011; W: www.catechesis.org.sg march 15 Practical applications of the doctrine of the Holy Trinity in our daily life Time: 7.30pm-9pm. This talk uncovers multiple layers of meaning of the Holy Trinity, with focus on the Christological issue of Jesus’ divinity and humanity and how it affects us. Organised by the Catholic Theology Network. Venue: St Joseph’s Church, Victoria Street, Conference room. Speaker : Mary Rajadurai (Masters in Religious Education, Australian Catholic University). To register: E: theology.sg@gmail.com march 17 to march 19 Montfortian Xperience 3 (MX3) - Friends Of the Cross Time: 7pm (Fri)-1pm (Sun). A weekend live-in retreat based on the spirituality of St Louis Marie de Montfort. A Friend

of the Cross is one chosen by God, from among thousands. A Friend of the Cross is one who is holy and set apart from the things that are visible. Are you walking along the true way of life – the narrow and stony way of Calvary? By Br Dominic Yeo-Koh and Br John Albert. Venue: Montfort Centre. To register: T: 67695711; E: enquries@montfortcentre.org march 18 CBN Lenten Retreat A day of self-reflection and recollection.

Time: 8.30am-3.30pm. The Catholic Business Network is organising a Lenten retreat to bring together Catholic professionals and business owners in a day filled with engaging talks and praise and worship. It will be led by Mr Lance Ng, a spiritual director in the Ignatian tradition. Venue: FMM Retreat House.

For more information, T: 92284463 (Raymond). E: admin@cbn.sg. Cost: Free (CBN Member) / $50 (Non Member), includes one-year membership.

March 18 Finding God in Writing Workshop Time: 10am-5pm. A full-day workshop designed to help you write your sacred story. Through writing exercises and other activities, explore and express your innermost thoughts and feelings.

No prior writing experience required.

Fee: $80 (includes lunch and refreshments).

Organised by Kingsmead Centre, 8 Victoria Park Rd. To register: W: http:// tinyurl.com/writing2017; T: 64676072 March 19 IHM Lenten Bloodmobile Outreach Time: 10.30am-3.30pm Venue: Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary multipurpose hall, 24 Highland Rd. Our blood is God’s gift of life. Give blood and save up to three lives! (If you’re between 16 to 60 years and weigh above 45kg). Bring along your NRIC or passport. The bone marrow donor programme (BMDP) is also available.

For more enquiries: T: 97519906 March 19 Introduction to Authentic Conversations Time: 9.30am-5pm. The lack of authentic conversation spaces has reduced many conversations into gossip and slander.

How does one facilitate and nurture safe spaces for authentic conversation that is so critically needed today? Listen to your call through the needs of the many who thirst for real conversation. Fee: $60.

Organised by Kingsmead Centre, 8 Victoria Park Rd. To register: W: http:// tinyurl.com/iac2017; T: 64676072

march 25 and april 1 Catechist Elective Course (CEC) - History of the Catholic Church in Singapore This two-week course seeks to create an awareness of the history of the Catholic Church in Singapore. Time: 9:30am12:30pm. Venue: CAEC 2 Highland Road, S549102. Contribution: Waived for 2017.

Register using the following URL: http://tinyurl.com/j4x7ucf.

For more information: E: enquiry@ catechesis.org.sg; T: 68583011; W: www.catechesis.org.sg

march 26 to may 17 Couple Empowerment Programme (CEP) 2017 CEP is a programme for married couples who wish to discover more about building strong marriages, and to raise emotionally balanced children. This programme is faithful to the Catholic Church teachings and incorporates well-studied life skills. Childminders available. Venue: Church of St Ignatius. To register: T: 91059921 (Victor); 98579075 (Andrea); E: goto_cep@hotmail. com; W: www.cep-sg.org or fb.com/sg.cep April 1 Healing Mass All are welcome and no registration is needed. Time: 2pm-4pm. You are invited to join us for praise and worship and Mass followed by prayers for healing. After Mass, prayer teams will be available to pray with you for healing. Please spread the word to your family and friends.

Celebrant: Fr Tom Curran.

Organised by SACCRE- Praise@Work.

Venue: Church of Sts Peter and Paul. For more information: E: praiseatworksg@ yahoo.com; T: 97472467.

April 1, 8, 22 Clarity’s Self-Worth Introductory workshop Join us for a three-session workshop to understand self-worth, its importance and impact in your life. Through various activities and exercises, practise ways to recognise and replace self-defeating thoughts. Learn how to love and accept yourself, in spite of your imperfections, and how to make your life more meaningful. Time: 10am-noon. Venue: Blk 854 Yishun Ring Rd. Cost: $10 per person.

For more information, T: 67577990; E: email registration@clarity-singapore april 8 open house Canossian Convent Kindergarten open house. N1, N2, K1 and K2 open for registration! Time: 9am – 1pm, 100 Jalan Merbok, S598454. “We believe that every child has the potential to

In memoriam

What’s On 21 shine.” Games for preschoolers, mini food fair, thrift shop and free parents’ workshop. For more information: T: 64692201; E: cckg.generaloffice@ gmail.com; W: www.canossian.org.sg. april 12 to may 17 april 8 The prophets - messengers of god’s mercy Every Wednesday from 9.30am-11.30am.

Venue: Church of the Holy Spirit Level 3 Room 10 - Annex Blk. A DVD-based programme presented by Thomas Smith and Sarah Christmyer (Great Adventure Catholic Bible Study). Prophets bridge the Old and the New Testaments, calling us to return to our covenant relationship with God. This study shows us how their words continue to speak to us with urgency today. No pre-registration.

For more information: E: hsbibleapostolate@gmail.com April 22 FINDING GOD IN MOVIES Time: 2pm-5pm. Stories in movies allow for reflective moments, often inviting us to question something about ourselves, our faith or in a greater sense, humanity. Join us to watch Queen of Katwe, the inspiring real-life story of Ugandan chess prodigy Phiona Mutesi. Thereafter, engage in conversation on Phiona’s riveting journey.

Organised by Kingsmead Centre, 8 Victoria Park Rd. Fee: $10. To register: http:// tinyurl.com/Godinmovies; T: 64676072 April 22 clarity’s workshop on ‘a guide to understanding depression’ Time:10.30am-12.30pm. Individuals with depression often have difficulties seeking help for themselves and in most times, causing friends and family members to feel frustrated and burnout. Come join us to find out what depression is about and share insights on the journey of providing care to your friends or loved ones who may need help. CANA The Catholic Centre L2. FOC. To register: E: registration@clarity-singapore.org April 29 to may 1 DEEPENING AUTHENTIC CONVERSATIONS April 29 (9am) - May 11 (4pm). In the workshop ‘Introduction to Authentic Conversations,’ we became more conscious of an experience of the presence of God through real conversations. In this deepening installation (retreat), we dive into the mystery of presence as a ministry of presence. Organised by Kingsmead Centre, 8 Victoria Park Rd. Fee: $260 (non-AC), $300 (AC). To register: http:// tinyurl.com/deepeningacr; T: 64676072 Third Anniversary In loving memory of

Eighteenth Anniversary In loving memory of

In God’s kingdom you live forever

Twenty-third Thirteenth Anniversary Anniversary

JAMES LOURDOE MR & MRS ANTHONY PETER MARY ANTHONY RENGASAMY Departed: Mar 17, 1994 Departed: Jun 8, 2004 Thirty-seventh Twenty-second Twenty-eighth Anniversary Anniversary Anniversary Twenty-fourth

Anniversary

FELIX MAURICE

Departed:

Mar 8, 1993

Alexander DANIEL JOHN Departed: Mar 20, 2014 We think of you in silence No eyes can see us weep But still within our aching hearts Your memory we keep Dearly missed by Patricia & family .

Twenty-first Anniversary In loving memory of

Sixty-fourth

Anniversary

James David

Departed:

1953 DOMINIC PAUL ANTUAN EMILE

MORRIS MAURICE MORRIS Departed: Feb 7, 1980 Departed: Jun 25, 1995 Departed: Dec 17, 1989

Walled in our hearts there’s a garden Where memories bloom every day In the rainbow, colours of happiness Before the Lord took away.

Fondly remembered by: children, in-laws, grandchildren, great-grandchildren, relatives and loved ones.

JAMES HEATHCLIFF ZEHNDER Called to be with the Lord on Mar 18, 1996 Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord and let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace, Amen.

Lovingly remembered by sister Valerie, brothers Patrick, Desmond, Barry and loved ones.

GEORGE D’ SOUZA Departed: Mar 18, 1999 Time changes many things but not the memory this day brings Till now you are still in our minds and hearts.

Fondly remembered by wife, children, grandchildren and loved ones.

In loving memory of

VICTOR KOLANDASAMY Departed: Mar 20, 1999 He longed to be with Him Now God has him in His keeping We have him in our hearts We will always cherish you with love.

Always remembered by wife Agnes, Jackie, Jude, Bridget, Jerome and Jonas.

Please turn to pages 22 and 23 for more in memoriam advertisements.

22 in memoriam

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

Fourth Anniversary In loving memory of

Second Anniversary In loving memory of

Cecilia Myra Beins Departed: Mar 19, 2011 Forever remembered

by Ken, Kirk, Keith, and Betty.

PETER GOH LYE HENG Departed on: March 24, 2013 Love still bridges the chasm of the worlds We live apart Memories still draw us together on the different Journeys we embark Forever and ever you will always Live in our hearts.

We remember with love, Agnes, children, children-in-law and grandchildren.

HENRY NG SOON CHIANG Departed: March 23, 2015

Eighth Anniversary In loving memory of

Rene Gabriel Nathan Departed: Mar 16, 2009 There is a place in our hearts which is yours alone A place in our lives No one else can ever own We hold back tears when we speak your name But the ache in our hearts Remain the same.

Deeply missed and always cherished by wife, Sharon, children, Aaron, Reuben & Hannah, parents, sister, in-laws, nephews, nieces, relatives and friends.

Masses will be celebrated at the Church of St Mary of the Angels on Mar 16, 2017 at 6.55am and 6.30pm.

REV FR PETER LU Departed Mar 21, 2007 Thank you for the years you’ve been there for us Thank you for the way you cared In our hearts you will always live Your memory we will always keep.

Mass will be celebrated at the Church of the Nativity of the B.V.M. on Saturday Mar 18, 2017 at 4.00pm.

We remember and cherish the happy times together.

Remembering you today and forever.

Tenth Anniversary In loving memory of

In everloving memory of our beloved parents, grandparents and great-grandparents

Thirteenth Anniversary In loving memory of

Tenth Anniversary In loving memory of

Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord, and let perpetual light shine upon him.

May he rest in peace.

Forever in our hearts and fondly remembered by your loving wife Sally, son Wei Kian, daughter Jacqueline, son-in-law Arthur, daughter-in-law Gwen, beloved grandchildren and all loved ones.

Eighteenth Anniversary

S.M. FRANCIS XAVIER

Departed: Sep 8, 1999

Oswald John Pinto Departed: Mar 17, 2004 In our hearts you will always live.

Loved and remembered...

Twenty-seventh Anniversary In loving memory of

JOSEPHINE AGNES HARDING (NEE NONIS) Departed: Mar 18, 2007 We speak your name with love and pride We smile with tears we cannot hide We thank you for the years we shared The love you gave, the way you cared.

Fondly remembered by husband John and those who loved her.

Eternal rest grant unto her O Lord and may Your perpetual light shine upon her.

Sixth Anniversary

MUTHU ANTHONY AROKIAMARY Departed: Mar 20, 2011

To us, both your names will ever be The key that unlocks our memory of both of you, our dearest ones, who have gone but cherished yet Your beloved face we’ll never forget.

Gaema and Tata, many years have passed and how I wish you were around to be the peacemaker for every worry, trial and trouble that happens.

I really miss you so much. Though you are gone, you are definitely living in my memory and heart. I love you.

You will always be our most beloved Appa, Amma, Tata, Gaema, Big Tata and Big Gaema.

Deeply missed and lovingly remembered by beloved sons, daughters, sons-in-law, daughters-in-law, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and all loved ones.

Please turn to pages 21 and 23 for more in memoriam advertisements.

Sixth Anniversary In loving memory of

LUCY DE ROZARIO Departed: Mar 18, 1990 Time changes many things but not the memory this day brings Till now you are still in In loving memory of our minds and hearts.

Always remembered Second Twenty-seventh Anniversary Anniversary by loved ones.

Seventeenth Anniversary In loving memory of

ANUGRAHAM FLORA SAMUEL PAUL AROKIAMARY

PAUL ANTOINE Departed JOSEPH TAMBOU July 29, 2015 Mar 14, 1990 Passed away peacefully on Mar 21, 2000 Our Lord Jesus knew what was best Our Lord Jesus He took you both home for eternal rest knew what was best We wipe our tears and tried not to be sad He took you home and remember the precious times we had for eternal rest We wiped our tears Deeply missed by children and tried not to be sad and loved ones.

And remember the precious times we had.

Always remembered In precious & loving memory of by wife, children, grandchildren and loved ones.

Twenty-first Anniversary In loving memory of

MICHAEL WONG TENG KIAN Departed: Mar 15, 1996 His helping hand was always first To tender any aid he could His voice was always raised in praise, His words were wise and good.

Dear Father, since you went away, The ones you loved so true, try hard to carry on the way we know you’d want us to.

Always remembered by loved ones.

KULANDAI SEBASTIAN THIRESAMMAL VEDAMANICKAM (RANI) Departed:

Mar 16, 2015 Apr 11, 1990

A million times we needed you A million times we have cried, If love alone could have saved you You never would have died.

In life we loved you dearly, In death we love you still.

In our heart you both hold a place, No one else can ever fill.

It broke our hearts to lose you, But you didn’t go alone Part of us went with you, The day God took you home.

Dearly missed by daughters and SILs, DIL and grandchildren.

Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

In loving memory of

FREDDIE MORAES Departed: Mar 26, 1986 In the emptiness and silence of our mourning comes the comfort From on high With peace in our hearts and the joy that you are always nearby.

Always remembered by loved ones, especially his granddaughter.

Eighth Anniversary In loving memory of

Ninth Anniversary In loving memory of

Jacob Lee Hua Pheng Departed: Mar 22, 2009 In our hearts you will always live Your love, your voice and your smile And fond memories of you Are imprinted in our minds.

Always remembered by wife, daughters, sons-in-law and grandchildren.

Philip Ooi Ban Lee Born into eternal life Mar 25, 2008 Everyday in some small way We miss you more than words can say.

In our hearts you will always stay Loved and remembered everyday.

Love and dearly missed, Agnes, Mark, Shermaine, Sr Wendy, Martin and Marcus Mass will be celebrated at Church of the Divine Mercy every first Thursday of the month till December 2017.

First Anniversary In loving memory of

ROCKEY JOSEPHINE Departed: March 22, 2016 Thank you for the years we shared Thank you for the way you cared We loved you then and we love you still Forget you, we never will.

Dearly missed and fondly remembered by children, grandchildren and loved ones.

Mass will be offered at Church of St Vincent De Paul on Wed Mar 22 at 6pm.

In loving memory

Tenth Anniversary In loving memory of

Third Fourteenth Anniversary Anniversary

JOSEPHINE joseph JOSEPH arputhasamy Departed on:

Mar 18, 2014 Dec 8, 2003

We think of you in silence No eyes can see us weep But still within our aching hearts Your memory we keep.

From your loved ones.

Please turn to pages 21 and 22 for more in memoriam advertisements.

JOSEPH BENJAMIN FERNANDEZ Departed: Mar 29, 2007 Your presence is ever near us Your love remains with us yet You were the kind husband, father and grandfather Your loved ones will never forget.

Forever cherished by wife, children, grandchildren and loved ones.

Mass will be offered on Sunday March 26, 2017 at the Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary at 11.15am.

Fifth Anniversary In loving memory of

MATHEW CHRISTIAN was called to be with the Lord on March 27, 2012 Death leaves heartache no one can heal, Memories are treasures no one can steal.

Remembered with love and deeply missed by loving wife Eunice, children and grandchildren.

in memoriam 23

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Sunday March 19, 2017 n CatholicNews

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