AUGUST 25, 2013, Vol 63, No 17

Page 1

www.catholicnews.sg SUNDAY AUGUST 25, 2013

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Young Catholics learn about new evangelisation Conference participants commissioned to evangelise to others

VOL 63

NO. 17

INSIDE WORLD YOUTH DAY S’pore volunteers share their experiences in Rio de Janeiro „ Pages 6-7

HOME Year of Faith activities Risen Christ parish celebrates special year with workshops, quizzes „ Page 8

ASIA ‘Emulate young Catholics!’ Panel discussion at the Proclaim! Youth Conference.

By Clara Lai caught her eye. icons – such as Facebook, Twitter ! " # $% & ' ( ' ) * ' it. “Never really thought about ' + & / & + the social networking tools I use:)�, wrote the parishioner of

' / ! & # ! 1 !

( 23%4 5 5 6 During the workshop, participants took photos of objects that caught their eye, wrote spiritual 7

as a way of evangelising. ( 5 %8 ' ' 6

9 tant way of evangelising because & ; & sphere�. 9 + & great opportunity to evangelise

< ' 1 ( took part in the stay-in conference on the new evangelisation, & ' = + %> $? The highlight of the conference were the talks given by ( @ A B A / G

ceremony.

Nepali PM praises Catholics’ service to nation on TV „ Page 11

WORLD Engaging with faith-based groups New US State Dept „ Page 12

POPE FRANCIS Pontiff meets Argentine, Italian soccer teams Praise and worship session.

B H B J B A ference by highlighting how it was the laypeople who brought

' # 6 6 & ' ' & 9 + <

( 6 & back to their country. B A # # B K + A & &people. „ Continued on Page 9

„ Page 14

FAITH ALIVE! The good steward’s story of faith Everyone has a story to share „ Page 18

2 ORDINATIONS

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

Newly ordained Frs Edward Seah and Benedict Chng share

He’s a former La Salle Brother By Darren Boon Newly ordained Fr Edward Seah was a La Salle Brother for more than 20 years before becoming a priest. But during his time as a Religious Brother serving in La Salle 7 & ?X3& 3 old priest said. He recalled how children tell their teachers that they had ( thought of Catholics who have said. B # ' 1 # + said he felt that since he was & agine himself “becoming a priest so soon�. / 5 Salle Brothers was during a trip to the Daughters of St Paul for ) Z & Malaysia. There he met a La Salle Brother who invited him to visit his congregation. Fr Seah described that as 9 ; <

thought of Religious life did not occur to him until he chanced upon a book in the Toa Payoh Public Library – Something Beautiful for God – which was on Mother Teresa. ( God inviting him to “take the road less travelled� and started discerning what God could be calling him to do. / 7 life and his ministries – as a cat 5 ! & & Church of the Risen Christ and his involvement with student-care services. He then felt called to become a La Salle Brother. Although Fr Seah is a trained & ligious Brother he gave spiritual and pastoral support in the Catholic schools he worked in. These included St Patrick’s School and St Joseph’s Institution. “I have no regrets joining the

< his years of work as a Brother have been meaningful and that the Brothers’ work “is still + & + & ed�.

Fr Edward Seah poses for a photo with Archbishop William Goh, Archbishop Emeritus Nicholas Chia and La Salle Brothers. Fr Seah and Fr Chng were ordained at the Church of the Holy Family on Aug 8. Photos: KEVIN HO

/ + hood remained. With the support of the La # & & & mation and studies. Moving from Religious life to seminary life was manageable as he already had experience liv & B Seah said. / + than many of the other seminar studies as his “thinking process is slower� and his “memory not as good� as before.

He jokingly added that he & ; had lost touch with exam strate that he used to remind students about exam strategies. B # is called to minister to everyone

‘I have no regrets joining the Brothers.

’

– Fr Edward Seah

and to “serve as Christ serves�. “As I try to live out what God & help others to live out the call God has for them...God’s desire for them which will lead to true hap < said. / 9 + tations with age and everything. God calls me in spite of my unworthiness and with His grace I’ll serve as best as I can in whatever years the Lord is giving me to serve.� „ darren.boon@catholic.org.sg

ORDINATIONS 3

Sunday August 25, 2013 CatholicNews

their faith stories

‘I ran from my call for 13 years’ By Darren Boon He tried to ignore the call to the priesthood for 13 years. Fr Benedict Chng, 50, said he was in his 20s when he accompanied his mother to visit the Carmelite nuns. One of the nuns suddenly asked him in Teochew if he wanted to be a priest. He laughed it off then, he said. Although he had served in various ministries – such as the RCIA ministry at the Church of the Holy Family, the children’s liturgy ministry at the Church of Our Lady Queen of Peace, and the Followers of Christ ministry in St Patrick’s School where he attended – he did not feel attracted to the priesthood. He wanted “to have the best of both worlds”, to “serve God while enjoying what the secular world offered because it is very attractive”, said Fr Chng, who was working for a local audio broadcasting equipment company then. Becoming a priest “was the last thing” on his mind as making money and achieving the 5Cs were more important, he said. Nevertheless, he felt restless and unhappy. “I ran from my call for 13 years...each time when I reached that crossroad in my life, I did not want to take that leap of faith. I did not want to take that challenge.” Later, the urge to seek God led him to attend vocation discernment retreats for three consecutive years. Even then, Fr Chng said he was hoping God would say “no” to him. He even asked a priest if it was a sin to ignore God’s call, but was told that everyone was given

the freedom to choose. After the third retreat, he decided that he did “not want to die without responding to God. Since the opportunity is given to me, I should take that leap of faith.” He entered the seminary at around the age of 40. He found this stage of his life a challenge as well – academically and also in terms of his energy level. He also had to familiarise himself with the liturgical rites which were foreign to him as he had never been an altar server. Furthermore, there was a period of time when his parents were

The urge to seek God led Fr Chng to attend vocation discernment retreats for three consecutive years. sick and he had to attend to them, he added. Though he had thought of returning to the secular world, he said it was his prayer life and God’s grace that gave him the perseverance to carry on. Without a prayer life, one has no vocation, Fr Chng said. He said his ordination is like seeing “the light at the end of the tunnel”. He added that he looks forward to serving God’s people fully and living “with openness to the will of God”. darren.boon@catholic.org.sg

The two deacons prostrate themselves during the ordination ceremony.

Fr Benedict Chng poses for a photo with Archbishops Goh and Chia. Behind them are Fr Chng’s family members.

4 HOME

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

Vocation retreat attracts record number of participants By Br Shawn Wong $ave Million$. This was the theme for this year’s Diocesan Vocation Retreat held at the St Francis Xavier Major Seminary from Aug 2-4. The annual retreat, held to help young men discover their vocation in life and gain a better understanding of the diocesan priesthood, saw a record attendance of 76 participants aged 18 to 35. Archdiocesan vocation director Fr Alex Chua led the retreat, which helped participants – many of whom were attending for the 7 to surrender to God’s will rather than hoard worldly possessions. The theme $ave Million$ was inspired by Luke 12:13-21, which is about the rich fool who cared more about his wealth than anything else. During the retreat, priests of

the archdiocese shared their personal stories on how their vocation was one of love and surrender to God’s will, which in turn led to “millions� of souls being saved. Participants were helped to have a deeper experience of God’s love through praise and worship led by Amplify youth ministry, the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Eucharistic adoration. Each participant also had a seminarian to pray with for their needs and struggles in their discernment journey. They were able to learn more about seminary life and also had opportunities to interact with other participants. Archbishop William Goh joined participants for their meals and celebrated the closing Mass. Members of the Serra Club, who promote priestly vocations, were at the retreat fasting and interceding before the Blessed Sacrament for the participants,

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facilitators, priests and seminarians. Vocation Promotion Team members from parishes all over Singapore also joined in to offer prayers. Many participants said they experienced a deep encounter with Jesus during the retreat. Luke Yeo, 19, from the Church of St Francis Xavier said he is very “grateful to the semi-

nary for enabling [him] to embark on this journey of discernment‌ and now understands that everyone is called to discern their lives’ vocationâ€?. Another participant, Jerome Lim, 19, from the Church of St Michael, remarked that he “realised the important need of being humbleâ€? through the Sacrament of Reconciliation, which

Each participant had a seminarian to pray with for their needs and struggles in their discernment journey.

was conducted during the retreat. Andy Joel Ng, from the Church of the Holy Cross, said he strongly recommends this retreat “for people discerning their life’s vocation and [those desiring an] understanding of what a vocation [truly is]�. The next Vocation Discernment Recollection is from Oct 4-5. Look out for more details in about the seminary, visit www. sfxms.org.sg. „ Br Shawn Wong is a seminarian at the St Francis Xavier Major Seminary.

IJ alumni share ‘light of love’ overseas By Stefania Hartley Twelve former Convent of the Holy Infant Jesus (CHIJ) students spent two weeks in Bangkok teaching English to primary school children. The 19- and 20-year-olds were answering a call for help from an IJ nun whom some had met during previous mission trips to the Chiang Rai region. The trips were organised by CHIJ Toa Payoh (Secondary) when the girls were in Sec 3. The group, who call themselves Amoris Lumine (Latin for “light of love�), started with just four girls who then roped in other ex-IJ Toa Payoh students. They were asked to assist two other IJ nuns in teaching English in two IJ primary schools – the Mary Immaculate Convent and Holy Redeemer School. Prior to the June 30-July 13 self-funded trip, they formed three committees – Games, Crafts and Language. These planned hands-

going through the day’s worksheet with the children.

on activities, edited storybooks, and devised worksheets and lesson plans. Three of the girls, who were

studying in the National University of Singapore, also took a Thai language elective module to help them communicate with their young charges. During the two weeks in Thailand, they taught English to upper primary students in the co-ed schools where only a small portion of the student population was Catholic. It was tough, the Singaporeans recalled, but added that they were

Learning about the parts of the body through a hands-on activity.

thankful to the IJ nuns for their complete trust in them. The group said the students, who are used to being taught in a formal, textbook-based style, responded well to the hands-on lessons which the Singapore group conducted in teams of three per class. “Embarking on a mission trip with a group of ex-IJ girls, with some I barely knew taught me to always take that leap of faith and also the importance of compas-

sion,� said Ashley Ng, a member of the group. “My biggest takeaway from this trip is the value of a community: in giving, loving and sharing as one,� said another member, Fiona Hong. “We went to Thailand because we had a contact there but we don’t exclude going to other places in future, should there be a greater need elsewhere,� said fellow member Jocelyn Loong. „

HOME 5

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

CHANCERY NOTICE APPOINTMENTS

OTHER MATTERS

1. Fr Michael Teo is being transferred out of the Church of St Joseph, Victoria St, with effect from 20th August 2013 and will reside at Church of St Teresa.

Overseas priests and invited speakers

2. Fr John Bosco Pereira has been appointed as Rector of the Church of St Joseph, Victoria St with effect from 20th August 2013. He will also assume the oversight of the Restoration Project of the Church. Fr John Bosco continues to be a member of the formation faculty at the St Francis Xavier Major Seminary. 3. Fr Frederick Quek is appointed as an assistant priest at Church of St Anthony with effect from 5th August 2013. 4. Fr Edward Seah has been appointed as a member of the Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic Schools with effect from 9th August 2013. 5. Fr Robert Balhetchet will reside at the Church of the Sacred Heart. 6. Mr Thomas Tan Aik Hong is appointed Chairman of Catholic Welfare Services Singapore with effect from 30th October 2013 for a term of two (2) years.

In implementing the practice for safe environment, the Archdiocese would require all non-resident clergy from outside Singapore and any invited speakers for any events organised for the ( proval from Msgr Ambrose Vaz, Vicar General (Pastoral). This request is to be processed through the Chancery, ac & “Statement of Suitability� form by the proper ecclesiastical superior of the visitor and a letter of support from the relevant local spiritual director. The softcopy “Statement of Suitability� form can be obtained from the Chancery. At parish level, parish priests may approve speakers and visit-

Aug 5, 2013

ing priests but must submit a “Statement of Suitability� to the Chancery in accordance with safe environment policies of the Archdiocese prior to giving permission. Religious and foreign clergy and laity posted for stay and assignment in the Archdiocese of Singapore All members of religious institutes, members of societies of apostolic life and other non-resident clergy or laity intending to be posted for stay in the Archdiocese of Singapore and/or for pastoral assignments are required to inform and update the Chancery. Those intending to engage in public ministry of any sort are also required to submit a “Statement of Suitability� before approval will be given by the Vicar General (Pastoral).

Fr John-Paul Tan OFM, JCL Chancellor, Chancery of the Titular Roman Catholic Archbishop of Singapore Archbishop’s House, 31 Victoria St, Singapore 187997 Tel: 6337 8818 Fax: 6333 4735 Email: chancellor@catholic.org.sg

6 WORLD YOUTH DAY

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

It’s all about you, not m

It is more blessed to give than to receive By Christian Chong It is another thing to be a volunteer for WYD instead of the “usual routeâ€? of being a pilgrim. I was assigned to be stationed at an information point located at the main ferry terminal called “Praça XV Barcasâ€?. It is where the Cariocas (citizens of Rio de Janeiro) take regular boat rides between downtown Rio and the city of NiterĂłi where I was residing. Basically, I was there to give information to pilgrims and others regarding the events of WYD. Most queries were about directions to churches, Corcovado Mountain where the Statue of Christ the Redeemer is, and Copacabana beach. To inject a little bit of fun into our work, we would wave handshaped placards and walk around with standees printed with “How can I help you?â€? in three languages – Portuguese, Spanish and English, while the extroverted ones will take turns using the megaphone to shout out greetings to passengers boarding and alighting from the ferries. Personally, if I look at my job in practical terms, I wasn’t of much help because I’m in a foreign land speaking a different language. But in terms of “heartwareâ€?, I would say I have succeeded because many tired pilgrims lightened up when they saw our smiley faces, waving at them and cheering them on.

Perhaps the only time I gave practical advice was to a group of Hong Kongers and some Malaysians. I even performed the “Gangnam Style� dance to put a smile on their faces. During the lull periods in between ferry arrivals, someone from the team of volunteers would play dance music (all Latin American) and blare it out loud using the megaphone, and we would start dancing and having fun, much to the amusement of everyone in the vicinity! We are young, and young at heart, after all. More often than not, duty called. My scheduled duty was between 12 to 6 pm, and there were alternate days of rest. My friends and I planned to go to Petropolis one day that is a 1.5-hour bus journey from downtown Rio, but at the eleventh hour, I was recalled for duty because of manpower shortage. 7 side me – I came all the way here, and I would like to do some sightseeing, but here I was being called back to work. Then I remembered the fundamental purpose why I was here – I registered myself as a WYD volunteer, and I’m called to put aside my personal interests and avail my whole self to the service of WYD. So I reconciled myself, and stayed behind while the rest of

I gave my service to all, and I received an abundant grace in a most unexpected way.

Christian (left) performing a capoeira routine with the cathedral coordinator.

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my friends who’re off duty continued with their plans. I gave my service to all, and I received an abundant grace in a most unexpected way. I contracted

7 & @ & of the Cross with the pope. I stayed back in the cathedral where I was residing and self-medicated, but

7 @

I stepped out of the cathedral to & 7 took a turn for the worse, and I had to be rushed to the local hospital. A Franciscan friar who happened to be at the cathedral waiting for his accommodation accompanied me throughout my ordeal in the hospital, translating into English what the doctors and nurses were prescribing me. I can’t remember how many hours I stayed in hospital that day, but I experienced a fraternal love given freely to me by a fellow brother of Christ. I can never thank him enough for staying by my side. This has been a different kind of pilgrimage, a holiday which I took to work instead of play. This was a WYD where Acts 20:35, “It is more blessed to give than to receive�, be + & personal time and space to be of service to the pilgrims, and my reward was in the form of friendships formed from all over the world, and most importantly, the plentiful graces from God most high. I’m recharged. „ The writer is a 28-year-old civil servant, and a parishioner of Church of Christ the King.

Small but meaningful service to pilgrims By Marcus Wu As an international volunteer, I was assigned to the Pilgrim Kit Distribution department. I personally was in charge in sorting and giving out of the bags. I spoke English and Mandarin, while most of the other volunteers spoke Portuguese and Spanish. Therefore, I handled most of the English-speaking pilgrims from Asia and UK. Without the role of distributing the pilgrim kits, many pilgrims would be left without their essential information, transport card and meal card. Hence, I felt that what I did was a really small but meaningful service to the pilgrims. I felt like a bridge for the English-speaking pilgrims at this WYD. A lot of English-speaking pilgrims as well as those who have their own languages and barely speak proper H a volunteer who speaks English. Coming from a country famous & it hard to accept how things were

Marcus with a Singaporean volunteer Molly Ng (left), and Indonesian volunteer Katherine.

very messy in the beginning. However, I realised that this was a challenge to me by God, to fully trust in His ways. Much to my surprise, despite the disorganisation and miscommunication, everything still went on pretty well. And I must say, the committee was fast to adapt, as

problems encountered on one day were settled by the next. That was all thanks to God’s grace. „ The writer is a 25-year-old full-time student in Sinapore Institute of Management, and a parishioner of Church of Sts Peter & Paul.

WORLD YOUTH DAY 7

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

me, at World Youth Day

! " # $ "

Truly experiencing God’s ways and grace

Filipina Maria (front row, third from left), with fellow volunteers and pilgrims.

By Maria Eleda May Dalisay I worked at an information point at the train station called SuperVia in Campo Grande, Rio. Most of the pilgrims housed around that area were either Spanish or Portuguese, and I do not speak any of it, but despite this sig A for a purpose. I learnt to share what I had, to discount what I didn’t, and to let go of myself to be able to hug strangers, considering them as close friends in the name of Jesus Christ. They left our station with a smile, and to be able to contribute to that lightness in their hearts was enough to make my service worthwhile. Apart from our main work, during our off days, my friend and I volunteered to do something else. On the day the pope arrived in Rio, which was our off day, we took part in the formation of a human chain located under the bridge near the Catedral Metropolitana de São Sebastião. To be part of this human chain, we had to be wearing the event’s yellow T-shirt and ID. We did not bring our tees. Feeling despondent, we watched the others as they took part in this monumental event, while looking around hoping to borrow the clothes. I then noticed a friend we met a day before. He was in the human barricade. We waved frantically until his friend beside him noticed

us and alerted him. Amazingly, of all the things cluttered inside his bag, he rummaged through it and handed over his extra two T-shirts. We rejoiced. So, this chain of interlocked hands of volunteers in yellow Tshirts and IDs was what stood between the people, some metal barricade, and the popemobile. Our task was to observe the masses, to notify the authorities of any irregularities that might be a threat.

I learnt to share what I had, and to let go of myself to be able to hug strangers, considering them as close friends in the name of Jesus Christ. It was memorable for me because, apart from seeing Pope Francis up close drive past be A / showed us that if we served and submitted to Him, He would take care of everything. Everything was so smoothly and divinely executed from the moment we got our Tshirts until we reached home. My friend and I were hosted at a parish two-hours train ride from the Central, at the last stop. The ca-

thedral was a few stops away from the Central. Furthermore, the sun sets early in Rio, at 5.30pm. The place is dangerous in the morning, more so in the evening. We didn’t speak the language. After the pope’s arrival, the crowd went their separate ways. The trains were packed with pilgrims. We stayed for a while on the street, desperately looking for the friend who lent the T-shirts to return them, but to no avail. On our journey home, we looked for people who stayed in the same parish as ours. There was not a familiar face in the sea of people. We boarded the subway that would take us to the Central station, then transferred to another train for the two-hour journey. While walking towards the & A ’ nally met people who were housed in the same area and even in the same room as us. The day was so fruitful, angelic, and overwhelming that inside the train, my friend and I cried. In an email from the World Youth Day committee sent last 1 + & + & for our service, stating that God G “ / G / The basic barrier of language was overcome by smiles and hugs. What the words could not express, the actions conveyed. „ The writer is a 31-year-old banker, and a parishioner of Church of the Holy Trinity.

8 HOME

Sunday August 25, 2013 CatholicNews

Parish launches website, quizzes, workshops for Year of Faith The Church of the Risen Christ is holding a series of activities to mark the Year of Faith (YOF). These include exhibitions, talks, workshops, video screenings and a quiz on the Catholic faith. Topics range from the meaning of the YOF, Vatican II, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, a Biblical Walk Through the Mass to the Gospel of Matthew and the use of Catholic electronic resources. In late 2012, parish priest Fr John Sim asked the Church’s executive committee to propose activities to help parishioners increase their faith during the special year, which will end on Nov 24. A special YOF committee was then formed. It drew up a concept plan of activities for the year catering to parishioners of different ages and backgrounds. The committee set up a microsite on the parish website

(http://yof.risenchristmedia.org/) containing articles on the faith such as Pope Benedict XVI’s Porta Fidei (The Door of Faith) apostolic letter, YOF information, website links and other resource materials. The committee also produces a fortnightly YOF bulletin featuring articles on Church history, lives of saints and upcoming events. One such event was an exhibition on the Mass held from June 1-2 in conjunction with the feast of Corpus Christi. It was held in the parish hall and featured an array of items used in the Mass such as the liturgical books, vessels and vestments. On the two weekends leading up to Corpus Christi, slides were shown before weekend Masses explaining the meaning of gestures and postures used during Mass. The parish also held quizzes on the faith. From June 8 to Aug

Above: Risen Christ parishioners at a Year of Faith workshop conducted by Fr Erbin Fernandez earlier this year. Below: Screen grab of the parish’s Year of Faith site.

10, parishioners were encouraged to answer a set of questions released each weekend. These focused on topics such as the sacraments, Vatican II, and Catholic teaching on human life, mission and evangelisation. Parishioners say they are enjoying the faith-based activities. The quiz is an extremely good initiative to reach out to parishioners of all ages and this should not be limited to just the YOF, said Mr Jerome Wong, 23. Others, such as Ms Karen Fong, 47, said they found the video series Matthew: The

King and His Kingdom and the Bible TimeLine: The Great Adventure helpful for their faith and appreciation of the Bible.

The YOF committee is planning to mark the Marian month of October with an exhibition on Marian devotion and Mary’s role in salvation.

ASIA 9

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

‘Laypeople are the ones to evangelise’ „ From Page 1

“Charity begins at home!� 9 ’ +

' + & • + – & ' ’ ' & start here.� Archbishop Goh spoke about + 9 + < 9 + + to the Lord and experience His + < 3' 9/ & & & —1 Z + + / ˜’< 9™ & + + & A & of God,� he said. “Personal con+ + A + < On the last day of the conference, Fr Erbin reiterated the 9 + ’ Fr Gino, Archbishop Goh or Fr Erbin, but it’s the laypeople,� he said. 9! & ’ baptised as children or as con+ + ; —& Z ’ < Fr Erbin also introduced 1 H+ lisation Spiral that describes the + – from befriending another, sharing one’s personal faith story, in+ Christian community, to mentor-

Display of social media icons at a workshop.

ing and ongoing formation. According to Fr Erbin, this is a continuous journey that spirals Young parishioners of the ' # B K + cluded a skit on issues that youth communities face, a faith sharing and a panel discussion. ! ! +& Foo noted that a “community ; + G people praying together�. Rath 9 & + & + + the element of hospitality.� During the panel discussion, ! ( 5 & dinator from the Church of the Holy Family quoted Archbishop A & 9 & ’ you die. There’s no such thing as a stagnant community.� Panellists also shared tips on community building. These in-

Speakers from left: Redemptorist Fr Gino Henriques, Archbishop William Goh and Fr Erbin Fernandez.

‘Until you have been loved by God, you cannot do the work of God.’

– Archbishop William Goh

+ + + + members bond. Ms Jessica Tan, 24, a former core leader of a youth community at the Church of St Francis Xa+ “Prayers and Praises� Whatsapp group. + portunity to pray for one another, and share other intercessory and

+ & ) sioned during a Mass celebrated by Fr Erbin on the last day, dur ; &

& “This is the cross that you ‘carry’,� said Fr Erbin, referring

; + to others by telling them about Jesus. The conference culminated in + ' ' 3' + + ) + + ; shared their experience of God reaching out to them, or someone reaching out to them in a

difficult situation. # + ' 1 & spired by the conference. › # %8 9 ally liked� the Sacrament of Reconciliation held on the second day. 9 + ’ in one and a half years, and I forgot the peace you can get from + & gain my faith,� she said. “I lost it has helped me.� ! ' # $% the Church of Our Lady Queen of ) ; her three other siblings “before reaching out to others�. Mr Jason Wong, 25, a Protes + & 9 & uplifted and refreshed� after the short outreach session. „ clara.lai@catholic.org.sg

Bomb at Catholic Sri Lankan cardinal condemns army shooting of civilians in church school sparks alert COLOMBO

– Cardinal Albert Malcolm Ranjith of Colombo, Sri Lanka, expressed “shock and distress� as he accused the military of storming a Catholic church and refuge there. The cardinal condemned the &’ & ed statement read out on Aug 7 during the funeral for one of three ( % dent at St Anthony Parish in Weli & + ” capital. Authorities said more than 50 ”

diers broke up a demonstration by + & 9 & + + < ' nal Ranjith said at the funeral of + ) %2 # ) Â’ ' ' died after being shot in the head. 9 & &

Cardinal Albert Malcolm Ranjith

+ & premises of any religion and re premises seeking protection,� he said. Cardinal Ranjith also demanded that the “those found guilty • – sideration of rank or status�. During the protest, residents blocked a road and demanded permanent closure of a factory

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police in dispersing the protesters (

+ ians is “unacceptable under any circumstances�, said Cardinal Ranjith. “When the army started attacking and shooting at people, church for safety. People hid

+

+ < said, quoting Fr Lakpriya Nonis, the parish priest. A human rights leader also + + &’ actions. “It’s absolutely unacceptable to shoot at people asking for clean + ceptable to attack people seeking shelter in a church,� Catholic hu + B

' 1 # + „ CNS

JAKARTA – Archbishop Ignatius

Suharyo Hardjoatmodjo of Jakarta called for tighter security at parishes and Church-run institutions on Aug 7 after a petrol bomb exploded at a Catholic high school in Tebet, South Jakarta. Security guards at St Francis ( / # ed on Aug 6 by a small explosion ( +

& contained petrol. 1 ” ) + the incident. “We should tighten security at churches and Church-run institutions such as schools and hospitals to offset possible terror or + < He added that the need for + dhist temple in Kebon Jeruk, West Z (

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on Aug 4, slightly injuring one person. Security guards at the Catholic JJ + encountered any problems in the neighbourhood. 9 Â’+ + &

& %2 & at the school,� said Piet Cunno, one of the guards. 9# • – & < „ UCANEWS.COM

10 ASIA

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

War of words as HK diocese urges democracy HONG KONG – A war of words

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At the moment, voting rights are not universal and candidate selection and election are widely perceived to be heavily vetted by Beijing.

ASIA 11

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

Nepali PM urges Vatican envoy urges young people to ‘inclusive’ peace during atomic bomb anniversaries emulate Catholics

Cardinal Turkson, president of the < = ( CNS photos HIROSHIMA,

JAPAN – A top › Catholic Church’s repudiation of atomic weapons during a visit to Japan for the 68th anniversaries last week of the bombing of Hiroshima and Nagasaki at the end of the Second World War. Cardinal Peter Kodwo Appiah Turkson, president of the Vati ’ ) ' Z tice and Peace, was in Japan from Aug 5-9 to take part in the Ten Days for Peace initiative organised every year by all the Catholic dioceses in Japan. He took the opportunity to not only pray for victims of the atomic bombs but to emphasise the foolishness of wars and to urge religious leaders to become peacemakers. = ( ? a prayer at the Atomic Bomb Memorial Mound in Hiroshima Peace Memorial Park along with a group of pilgrims from all over Japan. He then joined a two-km march from the park to the Catholic Memorial Cathedral for World Peace. On Aug 6, he joined Buddhist, Protestant and Shinto leaders

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on the anniversary of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima. In a speech at a dinner organised by the Inter-religious Dialogue for World Peace, he invited the world’s religions, as well as today’s secularised people, not to succumb to the “suffering� that often seems to be man’s only “destiny here on Earth�. “Confused and discouraged, we are tempted to undergo suffering as chastisement or punishment, as a cruel fate. Such senseless suffering can eventually defeat us,� he said. › that to build real and lasting peace, no segments of the population should “suffer exclusion, deprivation, injustice and violence�. “No amount of ‘peace-build-

peace-making ‘isReal to include and to integrate even those on the peripheries.

’

– Cardinal Turkson

ing’ will be able to last,� he said, quoting Pope Francis, “nor will harmony and happiness be attained in a society that ignores, pushes to the margins or excludes a part of itself.� “Real peace-making is to include and to integrate even those on the peripheries,� he concluded. Cardinal Turkson then travelled to Nagasaki where he took part at an interreligious memorial ceremony at Ground-Zero Park before celebrating Mass on Aug 9 to commemorate the victims of the atomic bombing of that city. The Ten Days for Peace are observed every year as a time for remembrance and as a call for world peace. The “ten days� that are remembered begin with the bombing of Hiroshima on Aug 6, 1945, continuing through the bombing of Nagasaki three days later, and concluding with the surrender of Japan to the Allies on Aug 15. these 10 days as such was made when Pope John Paul II issued an appeal for peace in Hiroshima in 1981. „ UCANEWS.COM

Evangelisation summit for Asian bishops MANILA – The Archbishop of Manila has invited bishops in Asian countries where Catholics are a minority to join a conference to share their experiences of practis + ments. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle has set the date for the Conference on New Evangelisation in the Philippines for Oct 16-18. “We want to know from them how it is to be a Church in a country where the Christian presence is less than one percent,� Cardinal Tagle said. The prelate said it would be good for Filipinos to hear stories from other countries to inspire

them to become missionaries. “We Filipinos should draw inspiration from their stories so that we will strive to be missionaries in places such as in Asia that have yet to hear the Good News,� he said. Most of the workshops and sessions are to be conducted in English. The Conference on New Evangelisation is Manila archdiocese’s contribution to the celebration of the Year of Faith. Dubbed a Festival of Faith, the conference, which will be held at the University of Santo Tomas in Manila, is expected to be attended by some 6,000 people. „ UCANEWS.COM

< > (

KATHMANDU – The interim prime minister of Nepal has urged his countrymen to follow the example of Catholics in serving the nation. “Many young Nepalis are after material prosperity and money,� said Mr Khilaraj Regmi on national television, “but Catholics give a different example to be followed.� “We need young people to develop strong national consciousness, which can be used to help the state without waiting for the state to do something for them.� Mr Regmi was speaking on Aug 12 on the occasion of International Youth Day. Young Catholics “are an example to follow, especially now that our country is in a time of change. Young people must make their contribution�, he said. Mr Regmi cited the case of Ms Pushpa Basnet, who in 2012 won the CNN Hero Award. Her work in support of prisoners “was born from the teachings received in Catholic schools�, he said. Mr Basnet studied at St Xavier College in the capital. Fr Lawrence Maniyar, former Jesuit superior in Nepal, noted that the Church’s educational work “has played an important role for young people and their future�. “Several pioneers in the social + < “We greatly appreciate the words of the prime minister,� Kishor, a young Catholic from the capital, told AsiaNews. “We try to

pass on God’s message through service to the needy. We are pleased that the government recognises this dedication because our work transcends religion [since] we try to be of help to everyone.� Despite threats and attacks suffered in recent years, Nepal’s Catholic community has grown in the recent past.

U

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( CNS photo

Today it can count on 7,000 members, or approximately 0.45 per cent of the population. Its work, especially in the respected throughout the country. In 2011, the government made Christmas a public holiday, allowing Christian processions and events in which hundreds of people of other faiths participate. „ ASIANEWS

Bishops visit slum-dwellers MANILA

– Philippine bishops have heeded Pope Francis’ call to spend more time with the poor by visiting slum dwellers in Manila. Bishops Deogracias Iniguez, Elmer Bolocon and Artemio Luwaton were among several religious leaders who visited displaced slum dwellers living along canals in Quezon City on Aug 13. The slum dwellers are resisting government attempts to tear down their homes and relocate them outside the capital. The prelates said the current practice of demolishing poor urban communities is “gravely inhuman, unfair, unjust and oppressive in the eyes of God and civil society�. They called for an urgent moratorium on slum demolitions and effective disaster-response measures for those living along waterways, instead of resorting to mass relocations. “The Church as witness to God’s liberating presence in the world cannot turn away from the disturbing reality of the urban poor whose shacks have been forcibly dismantled, after which they are just left by the side of the road without shelter, money, food or care,� said Bishop Iniguez. The prelates said the provision

of relocation sites outside Manila for slum dwellers “is not viable because they don’t have work opportunities there�. The slum dwellers say most relocation sites have inadequate water and electricity supplies, and are located far from schools and health centres. Slum areas in the Philippines often have limited access to basic services and no legal land tenure. The urban poor in the Philippines now number about 20 million, according to UN Habitat, the UN agency dealing with human settlement. „ UCANEWS.COM

12 WORLD

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

WASHINGTON – The creation of

The Knights on Bikes ministry was started in Fort Worth, Texas, and has since expanded internationally with chapters in more than 30 states. CNS photo

# Catholic faith, values TULSA, OKLAHOMA – Members of the Knights on Bikes adamantly make it clear that they are not a “bike gang�. While they proudly wear a vest with a patch, they claim no territory like a traditional motorcycle club. Instead, as an extension of the larger ministry of the Knights of Columbus, the group is a family-friendly organisation that seeks to serve the Catholic Church and the community through a common interest in riding motorcycles. It is a motorcycle ministry dedicated to improving the image of bikers, promoting safety and Christian values. In April 2005, Mr Raymond C Medina in Fort Worth, Texas, founded Knights on Bikes as a way to further the work of the Knights of Columbus by organising members who are also motorcycle riders. It is now an international group with chapters in more than 30 US states and in Mexico, Canada and the Philippines. Their motto is “In God We Trust and Ride�, and they strive to address the spiritual and cultural needs of the Knights of Columbus and encourage faith, friendship and service. Members serve the community through charitable works, while they enjoy camaraderie with their brothers in faith as motorcycle riders. In Tulsa diocese, members have served as escorts for a fourth-

degree Knights colour guard in the Tulsa Christmas Parade the last two Decembers. Oklahoma Knights on Bikes col ily of Joey Pustajovski, a volunteer 6 the fertiliser plant explosion in West Texas, in April. Pustajovski left a wife and four children. Knights on Bikes in both Oklahoma and Texas were able to raise more than $4,000 (S$5,100) for the family. Its current president Mark Cearley said the organisation tries to schedule one ride a month so members can visit their brothers in other councils, cities and states. Mr Cearley believes that Knights on Bikes provides an outreach to Catholic men to help them grow in

/ & enthusiast and then a Catholic. He joined a different group of Catholic motorcycle enthusiasts but said he and fellow members from Tulsa diocese became disenchanted with it because it strayed from solid Catholic foundations. Then he knew about Knights on Bikes, and it became an outlet for ministering to others while enjoying a passion for riding. Each month they continue to add new members. The group + B ruary 2012 and now has 28 members statewide, with half of them from the Diocese of Tulsa. „ CNS

" " WARSAW, POLAND – Church spokesmen in Belarus said Catholics are “uneasy and disquieted� by the lack of information on the status of a parish priest arrested in early June for alleged spying. Fr Vladislav Lazar, 46, pastor of Holy Spirit Parish in Borisov in central Belarus, remained in custody on Aug 8, weeks after he was taken into custody by the State Security Committee, or KGB. “All we know is he’s still in prison, with no prospect of being freed,� said Fr Yury Sanko, press director of the Belarus bishops’ conference. 9@

charges against him, as well as For now, we can’t make a formal statement or lodge a complaint,� Fr Sanko said. The spokesman said church relations with the government were “continuing normally�, without “special tension�, but added that parishioners in Borisov were “exhausted and worried� by the lack of contact with him. B # Z & $8 the arrest of the priest, who had been pastor of Holy Spirit Parish in the Archdiocese of Minsk-Mohilov since April. „ CNS

= H Faith-Based Communities at the US State Department, announced on Aug 7, follows long-standing criticism that US diplomacy has been too separated from the realities of the importance of religion. In remarks at the State Department in announcing the establish # & State John Kerry said that after discussing at length the global impact of religion with leaders from around the world who are involved in interfaith efforts, it’s time to do more than “just to talk about a better dialogue. I think we have to stand up and deliver one.� “We need to recognise that in a world where people of all faiths are migrating and mingling like never before, where we are this global community...we ignore the global impact of religion, in my judgment, at our peril,� he said. More than a dozen federal agencies, ranging from the Department of Education to Homeland Security and the Corporation for National and Community Ser+ + form partnerships between the agency and faith-based and neighbourhood organisations. The State Department has long been criticised, for instance by the independent US Commission on

need to recognise ‘Wethat in a world where people of all faiths are migrating and mingling like never before... we ignore the global impact of religion, in my judgment, at our peril,

’

– Secretary of State John Kerry (left)

International Religious Freedom, for inadequately educating personnel about the range and depth of religious issues and for not engaging more with religious entities. A white paper produced by the State Department-created Religion and Foreign Policy Working Group last year warned that ignoring or minimising the important role religion plays “because we are uncomfortable with them, or do not have time or interest to understand them in context, is no longer an option for US policy�. Mr Kerry also announced that

& ! Shaun Casey, professor of Chris-

tian ethics at Wesley Theological Seminary. Mr Casey holds degrees that include a master of divinity, a master of public administration and a doctor of theology, all from Harvard University. He served as a consultant to the Project on Reli ) 3' 7 at the Center for Strategic and International Studies. Mr Kerry said engagement – which he described as a two-way “Our job at the State Department is not just to proclaim or to stand that we want. We have to listen to people about the things that they want.� „ CNS

ST LOUIS – The identity of a

“mystery� priest who prayed with a young woman at the scene of an accident in central Missouri has been solved. The Diocese of Jefferson City, ! as Fr Patrick Dowling, a native of Kilkenny, Ireland, who is currently serving in prison ministry and in parish ministry to Spanishspeaking Catholics in the diocese. For days after the accident, which occurred on Aug 4, local and national media described an “angel priest� or a “mystery priest� suddenly appearing at the scene to pray with an accident victim and then just as suddenly vanishing. A statement from the diocese dated Aug 12 noted that Fr Dowling was travelling that Sunday on / & %8 ! assignments in northern and central Missouri. He stopped at the accident scene near Centre, where %83& 3 6 5 J trapped in her car with serious injuries. The Missouri State Highway Patrol reported that Aaron

Fr Patrick Dowling is the ‘mystery priest,’ who anointed and prayed with Katie Lentz, 19, at the scene of an accident. CNS photo Smith, 26, had crossed the centre line and struck Lentz head-on. The Missouri Highway Patrol, New London Rural Fire, Hannibal Fire and Ralls County Sheriff’s departments assisted at the accident site. The priest discovered late that week that his presence at the accident had become the centre of media attention.

He eventually came forward by contacting the Jefferson City diocese and posting an online comment to a story about the accident at the National Catholic Register’s website: “I had Mass in Ewing, Missouri, as the regular priest was sick. As I was returning, I arrived at the scene. The authorities were was possible to drive up closer. I parked behind a large vehicle about 150 yards (140m) from the scene. I asked the sheriff’s permission and approached the scene of the accident. “I absolved and anointed Katie, and, at her request, prayed that her leg would not hurt. Then I stepped aside to where some rescue personnel and the pilot were waiting, and prayed the rosary silently. I left when the helicopter was about to take off, and before I got to my car it was on its way to Quincy. Fr Dowling told the Catholic Missourian, newspaper of the Jefferson City Diocese, that he has since visited Lentz and her family in the hospital. „ CNS

WORLD 13

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

Vatican bank launches its own website

VATICAN CITY – In an effort to

shake its image as a secretive, scandal-ridden institute and improve its relationship with the media, the Vatican bank has launched its own website. “It is an important part of transparency to launch a website,� said Mr Ernst von Freyberg, president of the Vatican bank. The site for the bank – formally known as the Institute for the Works of Religion – went “live� on July 31 at ior.va. Having an online presence is meant “to tell our customers, the Church, the interested public what we are doing, how our reform efforts are progressing and what the scope of our work is�, he told Vatican Radio. But it is also a way for the bank to try to facilitate relations with the press, which has given extensive coverage of the bank’s woes and less to its campaign to clean up. + 3 lished in English and Italian, lists a number of contacts – including two people dedicated to press inquiries – complete with direct phone lines, street addresses and emails. It also explains what the Institute for the Works of Religion is and provides numerous links to its governing statutes and policies. Mr Von Freyberg told Vatican Radio, “We consider journalists and the media our key intermediaries with the public, but also with those in the Church who are interested in our work.� “We hope that this website will also create a platform to communicate with journalists and the media,� he said.

Slovenian archbishops " #

" collapse resign VATICAN CITY – Two Slovenian

The Institute for the Works of Religion, popularly known as the Vatican bank.

The launch comes at a time of both continued upheaval at the bank and beefed-up reforms. The bank’s director and depu-

It is an important ‘ part of transparency to launch a website’

– Mr Ernst von Freyberg, president of the Vatican Bank

ty director both resigned on July 1 after a prelate, who was an account holder, was arrested by Italian authorities in June on charges of fraud, corruption and slander. In 2010, Italian treasury police seized 23 million euros (S$39 million) that the Vatican bank had deposited in a Rome bank account, but later released the funds › ’ laws went into effect. „ CNS

archbishops, including the president of the Slovenian bishops’ conference, resigned because of their connection to multimillion & Archdiocese of Maribor. Pope Francis accepted the resignations of Archbishops Anton Stres, 70, of Ljubljana, who also resigned as president of the bishops’ conference, and Marjan Turnsek, 58, of Maribor, under the terms of canon law that cover “ill health or some other grave cause�. Jesuit Fr Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman, told journalists that their resignations on July 31 were in connection to a The Archdiocese of Maribor, together with two other dioceses, had been co-owners of a number of private holding companies that about 700 million euros (S$1.2 billion) in losses. The companies reportedly made high-risk investments and took out unsecure

bank loans over the years. The archdiocese had tried to prop up the companies’ mounting debt by putting a number of its real estate assets up as collateral. Media reports about the impending crisis surfaced in early 2011.

The Archdiocese of Maribor, together with two other dioceses, had been co-owners of a number of private holding companies ruin because of about 700 million euros (S$1.2 billion) in losses. The archdiocese responded to the media criticism in Jan 2011 by distancing itself from the amount of control it exerted over the companies while admitting that trying to seek earnings the way it did was “unsuitable for a Church institution�. „ CNS

14 POPE FRANCIS

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

ANALYSIS

Pope: Church must embody God’s mercy VATICAN CITY – ! &

) B

+ ' ' & ' 9 & < ) B Z & $2 7 J / 9 Church is mother and must follow

& & + & < The Church has a special ob & & who are suffering because “of the not-so-beautiful witness of some priests, also the problem of corruption in the Church, and the problem of clericalism, for example, + & & < 9 Church, which is mother, must go < Z B B 5 Vatican spokesman, told Vatican Z & �4 things that strikes people most about ) B 9 + ness in helping people understand

A Â’ + & which reaches out to soothe and &< B ) B

has patience, patience with us, He understands us, He waits for us, / + we are able to return to Him with a < In that same address, he said

! & & ' nal Walter Kasper “has done me so < & ence that the Church needs to de+ 7 9 & A B < ) Z ) Â’ & ! & Â&#x;%824 ' dinal Kasper’s book, recognised

& A Â’ & & A Â’ omnipotence and justice, but, the + = A Â’ & 9

& ” < 5 + & ) Z ) A ’ ” 9 & ” + + < 91 + +

• A ’ &– + < 9= & can limit it, a lack of readiness to be + <

The Church, ‘ which is mother, must go and heal those wounds.

’

– Pope Francis, referring to problems such as corruption and clericalism in the Church

+ ' ; A ’ & # ' has insisted that human repent A ’ & A & When speaking about God’s & ) B

& ) # (Luke 15:11-32), and he used it 9@ ) # ’ & —# & & ’ 1 & ! & & ' < (

& ' 9” < & + ( ” & ! %� # ) ’ #G 9A ’ is the face of a merciful father & / + & thought about God’s patience, the patience He has with each one of ˜ / & / &

Cardinal Kasper wrote that & ’ A ’ ’ + “ / & 9 + < Although it’s not an exchange A & / ’ merciful if one promises to repent – Cardinal Kasper said God’s & ’ 9 < & 5 " ; 1 J 9! & & < Cardinal Kasper wrote; it would 9 &

< 9= + & 3

& < 9 ’ & one’s face, but a warm cape that & < + All of the sacraments are sac A ’ & dinal wrote, but the sacrament of penance is the one where an indi+ & A ’ + & & 9 + & < „ CNS

Pope Francis receives a gift from Argentina’s Messi (right) and Italy’s Buffon at the Vatican. CNS photo

Pope to soccer players: be good role models VATICAN CITY – With admiration and big smiles all around, the life ) B

& the Argentine and Italian national soccer teams hoping to compete @ ' $4%X The teams were led to the Clem / ( ) ( %Â? & ( 5 ! & & B' A & & Z + B' The two teams were in Rome to & 9 &< Â’ honour on Aug 14; the game has no G & @ ' ) B + &

& ) B + & + + maintain the spirit and passion of 9H+ < & graciousness and teamwork, both

9 & &

& < ) B 9H+ & & & < / & & &

& 9 ; & &

< 9 + & & < The pope, who follows soccer, knows that in Europe the game & & & ( / & & be models of inclusion, working

9 & < When teams are committed to + & 9+ < 9& Â’ < ) B & & 9

— ’ A & courageous game for the good of < „ CNS

Vatican Financial Intelligence Authority role and reach expanded VATICAN CITY – As part of the

Vatican’s ongoing efforts to en + & complies with international stand & + &

) Francis has expanded the role and the reach of the Vatican’s Finan ( & Less than a month after he updated the Vatican’s criminal code

› & around the world and not just

› ' & ) B ( 2 › ' & + ' & 3

out of the Vatican, including Caritas Internationalis and Aid to the ' 1 ) B added “the function of prudential + < ties of the Vatican Financial In ( & & ) K› $4%% + B ( 9 + + + + < & the Institute for the Works of Religion (the Vatican bank) and the ( ) & / & # › & + Z B B 5 ›

) B ’ tained in a document on “the pre+ & rorism and the proliferation of < 9 < ’ + The document, along with an appendix, also establishes a Finan # & '

3 + + & › & + & Fr Lombardi said the committee + forts to coordinate all aspects of the › ’ „ CNS

POPE FRANCIS 15

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

Pope asks for mutual respect between Catholics and Muslims VATICAN CITY – As a sign of his “esteem and friendship�, Pope Francis said he personally wanted to write this year’s Vatican message to Muslims who are celebrating the end of their monthlong Ramadan fast. The pope’s message, released by the Vatican on Aug 2, focused on the need for Catholics and Muslims to promote respect for one another, especially through the way they educate their youth. Catholics and Muslims must respect “the religion of the other, its teachings, its symbols, its values�, he said. “Particular respect is due to religious leaders and to places of worship. How painful are attacks on one or other of these!� Most Muslims around the world marked the end of their monthlong fast on Aug 7 or 8. Since 1973, the Vatican has sent formal greetings to Muslims to mark the feast and propose a

7 message is distributed by Vatican diplomats and by Catholic leaders taking part in Eid celebrations. In his message, Pope Francis said that “what we are called to all his life, his physical integrity, his dignity and the rights deriving from that dignity�. Catholics and Muslims also must respect the reputation of the other, “his property, his ethnic and cultural identity, his ideas

‘Particular respect is due to religious leaders and to places of worship. How painful are attacks on one or other of these!

’

– Pope Francis

and his political choices�, he said. Education is essential in helping Catholics and Muslims grow in knowledge of and respect for each other, he said, and “families, schools, religious teaching and all forms of media have a role to play in achieving this goal�. Pope Francis said that in offering each other best wishes for major religious celebrations, people of different faiths do not have to worry that they may be seen as somehow accepting the faith tenets of others. “When we show respect for the religion of our neighbours or when we offer them our good wishes on the occasion of a religious celebration, we simply seek to share their joy, without making reference to the content of their religious convictions,� he said. “I send you my prayerful good wishes, that your lives may glorify the

Almighty and give joy to those around you.� „ CNS The pope’s full message is at http://www. vatican.va/holy_father/francesco/ messages/pont-messages/2013/documents/papa-francesco_20130710_musulmani-ramadan_en.html

16 FOCUS

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

Fortnightly newspaper of the Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore

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Pastoral letter from the Archbishop regarding St Joseph Church, Victoria St

12 August, 2013 My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Many of you have read the Sunday Times article of 11 August, 2013 regarding the Decree of Removal and Transfer issued to Rev Fr Michael Teo. There are questions as to why this sudden turn of events, why it is necessary to resort to this course of action, and whether there is a better way of managing the issues. It pains me much to have to deal with matters of the Church administration in so public a manner, knowing how disagreements and schisms within the Church affect the Body of Christ, and how hurtful it is to all parties involved. However, I feel it is important at this juncture to provide a more rounded perspective of the issues at hand, so that you can all appreciate the complexity of the problem and how long and hard the former administration under the helm of His Grace, Archbishop Emeritus, and now that of my team, have struggled to mediate a just and amicable settlement of the differences among the stakeholders of the SJC Stained Glass restoration project, so that the work can proceed according to plan. # & & volved in this project, including the government under the stewardship of the Preservation of Monuments Board, which is co-funding the project. The challenges in executing the project have resulted in an acrimonious situation, causing the project to be stalled for over a year. All attempts at mediation have failed to yield a breakthrough and every party is equally aggrieved. It is clearly untenable for the situation to remain unresolved, and much as we feel with Fr Teo, the administration under my charge were left with no other option but to invoke the earlier notice of his removal from the project issued by the then Archbishop Nicholas Chia. Not to do so would subject the Church to civil suits, and this may cause even greater damage to the standing of the Church in society. It was thus with a heavy heart that my consultors and I decided on the present course of action, following much discernment, prayer and soul searching. At the end of the day, the larger interests of the Church must be served. &

Facade of St Joseph Church, Victoria St.

for healing of all aggrieved parties and for unity in the Church. ' & & 7 & healing of all aggrieved parties and for unity in the Church. Pray also for me, your shepherd, and my team, for the Holy Spirit’s wisdom and guidance and the courage to do what is right and just. Finally, I seek your understanding and co-operation to suspend judgement and to refrain from indulging in any form of speculative conversations that might cause more hurt to individuals and to the Church, but to join in prayer and supplication to the Lord for His Church. Yours in Christ,

Msgr William Goh Archbishop of Singapore

The private and the universal AMERICAN psychologist Carl Rogers once suggested that what’s most private within us is also most universal. His belief was that many of the private feelings that we would be ashamed to admit in public are, ironically, the very feelings which, if expressed, would resonate most deeply inside the experience of others. But this isn’t always true in terms of our tears. Sometimes our private tears are only that, private tears, tears which are ours alone and which don’t resonate with the feelings of others but rather cause them an unhealthy discomfort. Why don’t all of our tears draw empathy? Because not all tears are alike; there’s a difference between weeping and whining. The former is healthy, the latter isn’t. Weeping is healthy. It’s a wholesome expression in the face of loss. Moreover, when we weep we are giving expression to a sorrow that speaks not just of some private loss and pain, but somehow too of that same sadness within the entire world. The loss we are mourning may seem a private thing, like the death of a loved one, but, if the focus of our grief is on the one lost rather than on ourselves, our weeping is essentially empathic. Our deep sadness then mourns a universal condition and connects us more deeply to the world, where death and loss spare no one. Everyone, ultimately, carries that same sadness. Whining, on the other hand, is mostly self pity. Unlike weeping, its focus is not on what has been lost to tragedy but is primarily upon ourselves, our hurt, and our plea for sympathy. To whine is to hold a private wound up for public viewing in order to look for sympathy, like a child showing a bruised knee to his mother. We can feel sorry for a bruised child, the propriety there is not offensive, but the scenario is not nearly as palatable when we are adults. We cry tears for different reasons and we cry tears in different ways. In all tears, the question is: “Whom am I crying for, for someone else or for myself? What is causing my tears, sympathy for someone, sympathy for something, or self pity?� That’s not an easy question to answer because our tears are invari & ; & without self pity, like the tears that Jesus wept over Jerusalem or the ones Mary wept under the cross of Jesus. Our tears can indict us just as much as they can exhibit empathy. For instance, St Therese of Lisieux suggests that when we cry tears over a broken heart it is generally because we were seeking ourselves, rather than the other, inside that relationship. The tears are real, but they’re hardly noble. In a similar vein, Fr Antoine Vergote, the renowned Belgian psychologist and priest, suggests that the tears we cry when we feel guilty about doing something wrong are generally tears of self pity rather than a sign of actual contrition. True contrition, he contends, evokes something else inside of us – sorrow. What distinguishes sorrow from guilt is that in sorrow, we weep because something we’ve done has hurt someone else. With tears of guilt, we’re crying because we’re feeling badly. The difference between whining and weeping is often seen too in their aesthetics. Whining is invariably exhibitionistic, over sentimental, and causes discomfort to those witnessing it. It fails to keep a respectful aesthetic distance. In essence, it’s bad art! We’ve all experienced this at times, at a funeral perhaps, where, however tragic or sad the occasion, someone’s tears were simply so raw and so exhibitionistic that we experienced them as somehow violating proper propriety. We felt uncomfortable for the person shedding those tears. We experience this occasionally too to a lesser extent in bad popu + ; simply too raw, too sentimental, or too juvenile to leave us a safe space within which to view it and digest it. Again, the fault is in the aesthetics – bad propriety. Bad art leaves us wanting to shield our eyes so as not to embarrass someone else or it leaves us feeling like we have ingested too much sugar. That’s a second feature of whining; beyond being self pitying, it’s bad art. And so we need to be careful about the tears we shed in public and the frustrations we express out loud. Of course, none of our tears are pure, we’re always crying too for ourselves. The same is true for our protests; there’s always some self interest involved. But, with that being admitted, we should strive to do more weeping and less whining, that is, to insure that when we express sadness or indignation in public our tears and our anger are expressing more empathy than self pity. Carl Rogers is right: What’s most private inside us is also what’s most universal. That’s true too for our deep sadness, for our chronic heartaches, for a good number of our frustrations, and for many of the tears we cry. But it’s less true for our whining. „

Sunday August 25, 2013 CatholicNews

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17

18 FAITH ALIVE!

Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

The good steward’s story of faith Everyone has a story to share

A father watches his daughter light a candle at church. When parents speak Z ( CNS photo

By David Gibson There is an important story of faith to be told. It is your story. “We all have – and are – stories of faith,� the US Catholic bishops said in “Go and Make Disciples�, a 1992 message on evangelisation. “Whether you were baptised as a child or joined the Church as an adult, you have a story of faith�, and “whether you have a grade-school knowledge of the catechism or have a theological degree, you have a story of faith�, the bishops declared. Stories of faith can be personal. Notably, however, when parents tell these stories to their children, when parents speak openly about faith in this way, they are good stewards of faith. “Good stewards understand that they are to share with others what they have received� from God and as possible, according to another 1992 pastoral letter of the US bishops, this one on stewardship. They described good stewards as no less than God’s co-workers, with their “particular share in His creative, redemptive and sanctifying work�. What is a faith story? I’ve heard countless stories of faith in a retreat group that for years has been part of life for my wife and me. I vividly recall one participant telling about once feeling desperately anxious during a family member’s profound illness, then of sensing, with supreme con A ’ Another story told in our group involved a member’s con-

viction that God had a hand in the welcome but utterly unplanned path his life took. Hope could be a faith story’s theme. Ms Dolores Leckey, a former director of the US bishops’ Secretariat of Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth, once said that to live in settings that involve “many unchosen, uncontrollable factors�, and yet to remain hopeful, is “a story worth telling�. Sometimes people forget their stories of faith. Others never have acknowledged having a personal

Stories of faith can be personal. Notably, however, when parents tell these stories to their children, when parents speak openly about faith in this way, they are good stewards of faith. story of faith to forget. Naturally, forgotten or overlooked stories are not told to others. The outlines of our stories simply await our discovery or rediscovery, however. That may occur when we recall our life’s turning points. Possibly we will gain moments God quietly spoke to us and moved us to act. What happened at that time, how it happened and its impact on us in the ensuing months and years is a story of faith. It is a story worth telling. „ CNS

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Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

By Joe Sarnicola

choose today whom you will serve. As for me and my household, we will Joshua called representatives from the serve the Lord.� 12 tribes of Israel to come and stand The people who stood in front of before the Lord. The elders, leaders, Joshua, in the presence of the Lord, ” said, “Far be it from us to forsake the what Joshua had to say. Joshua remind- Lord to serve other gods. For it was ed them that God had blessed their an- the Lord, our God, who brought us cestor Abraham with many descend- and our ancestors up out of slavery. He ants and that God had delivered them performed those great signs before our out of the slavery of Egypt and gave very eyes and protected us along our them victory over opposing armies. entire journey and among all the peoSpeaking words the Lord had giv- ples through whom we passed. At our en to him, Joshua continued, “I gave approach the Lord drove out all the you a land you did not till and cities peoples, including the Amorites who you did not build, to dwell in; you dwelt in the land. Therefore we also ate of vineyards and olive groves you will serve the Lord, for he is our God.� did not plant. Now, therefore, fear the Then Joshua warned the people, Lord and serve him completely and “If you forsake the Lord and serve sincerely. Cast out the gods your an- strange gods, he will then do evil to cestors served beyond the river and you and destroy you, after having in Egypt, and serve the Lord. If it is done you good.� displeasing to you to serve the Lord, The people answered again, “No!

We will serve the Lord.� “You are witnesses against yourselves that you have chosen to serve the Lord.� “We are witnesses!� So Joshua said, “Now, therefore, put away the foreign gods that are among you and turn your hearts to the Lord, the God of Israel.� The people promised, “We will serve the Lord, our God, and will listen to his voice.� As a symbol of their promise, Joshua found a large stone, put it in

the sanctuary of the Lord and said, “This stone shall be our witness, for it has heard all the words which the Lord spoke to us. It shall be a witness against you, should you wish to deny your God.� Then Joshua sent the people home. „ Read more about it: Joshua 24

Q&A 1. Who did Joshua call before him?

2. What choice did the people of Israel make?

WORDSEARCH:

SPOTLIGHT ON SAINTS:

„ JOURNEY „ VOICE

St Medericus

„ WITNESS „ JOSHUA

„ EGYPT „ SERVE

„ LORD

Medericus (d. 700), often called Merri, was probably in his early teens when he joined a monastery, most likely that of St Martin in Autun, France. The reputation of the monks as holy men was known throughout the country. After Merri was named as the abbot of the monastery, he tried to encourage his monks to become even better Christians. Afraid his modesty might turn to vanity, Merri resigned and became a hermit living in the woods a few miles from the monastery. When he was approaching old age, Merri made a pilgrimage to the shrine of St Germanus in Paris with one travelling companion. He remained in Paris for two more years until his death from a long illness. We honour him on Aug 29. „

Bible Trivia: What was the name of the city Joshua defeated?

PUZZLE: Answers to Bible Trivia: Jericho

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The Old Testament tells us about the lives and actions of some of our religious ancestors, such as Abraham, Moses, Joshua and David. It also is a record of the laws given by God to Israel and it contains many of the prophecies given to Isaiah, Ezekiel and Jeremiah and other prophets who are not as well-known. Poems and songs are an important part of the Old Testament, especially those found in the Book of Psalms. The Old Testament is organised according to the topics + ) Â&#x; + books of law) followed by the books of history and wisdom and closes with the books of prophecy. „

Answer to Wordsearch

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3. John, 6. James,

1. J

Answers to Puzzle: 1. Jesus, 2. Joseph, 4. Jacob, 5. Jeremiah, 7. Jonah

Joshua’s name starts with the letter J. Can you name seven other men in the Bible whose names start with the same letter? One letter has been provided as a hint for each name.

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Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

WHAT’S ON 21

Sunday Sunday August 25, 2013 „ CatholicNews

EVENT SUBMISSIONS We welcome information of events happening in our local Church. Please send your submission at least one month before the event. Online submissions can be made at www. catholic.sg/webevent_form.php

also discussing current treatment options that are available to overcome depression. Cost: $20. By Clarity Singapore. At Khoo Teck Puat Hospital Auditorium, Tower B Learning Centre, Ground Floor (90 Yishun Central). Register: 6757 7990, 9710 3733; E: registration@clarity-singapore.org AUGUST 24 36TH CANOSSIAN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION AGM CUM HOMECOMING MASS 1.45-6pm: Calling all Canossian students and alumnus for an afternoon of activities, including an AGM of the Canossian Alumni, a homecoming Mass celebrated by Fr Johnson Fernandez, a guided tour of the refurbished SACSS and a Captain’s Ball face-off among current students, teachers and ex-students. At St Anthony’s Canossian Secondary School (1600 Bedok North Avenue 4)

THURSDAYS AUGUST 22 TO NOVEMBER 14 THE GOSPEL ACCORDING TO ST LUKE 8-9.30pm: Build your faith and understanding of Luke’s Gospel, with Fr Eugene Vaz. Cost: $20. At Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour. Register E: maurice3428@gmail.com THURSDAY AUGUST 22 TO SUNDAY AUGUST 25 CHURCH OF ST STEPHEN’S PARISH SPIRITUAL RENEWAL Aug 22-23 (7.30pm): Rosary followed by Mass. Aug 24 (2-5pm) Parish recollection; 5.30pm Rosary followed by Mass. Speaker: Fr Miguel Garaizabal, SJ, from Chiangmai SATURDAY AUGUST 24 TO SUNDAY AUGUST 25 CAMP FIDELIS Sat (9.30am)-Sun (12.30pm): For students who will be (or already are) studying in the UK or Ireland (including exchange students), though students studying in other countries are welcome to join. The camp hopes to provide an opportunity for overseas Catholic students to meet, with a focus on how to keep our faith while dealing with the demands university life brings. By Catholic Students’ Overseas Community. At FMM House (49 Holland Rd). Register E: csocsingapore@gmail.com; W: http:// ¢ 3 ¢

AUGUST 26 CHRISTIAN UNITY EVENING OF PRAISE AND WORSHIP 8-10pm: A follow up of the Annual Octave of Prayer for Christian Unity. With praise and worship, homily and healing session. At Aldersgate Methodist Church (98 Dover Rd – within compound of B ! ) & #  AUGUST 27 RELAX WITH ART FOR ADULTS 3-5pm: Enjoy a healthy time and space for your creative enjoyment and expression through art-making activities so as to feel relaxed and refreshed. No prior art experience is necessary Cost: $10. By Clarity Singapore. At Block 854 #01-3511, Yishun Ring Road. Register: 6757 7990, 9710 3733; E: registration@clarity-singapore.org TUESDAY AUGUST 27 TO TUESDAY OCTOBER 1 PERSONAL MORAL COMPASS: BIOETHICS (STEWARDS FOR LIFE) 7.30-9.30pm: This module addresses the range of bioethical issues faced by clinicians and researchers in hospitals, laboratories and classrooms, as well as family members caring for others. It covers the ethical issues that arise at the beginning of the human life span, at its end, and in between. Speaker: Fr David Garcia, OP. At Catholic Archdiocesan Education Centre (2 Highland Road). Cost: $70. Register T: 6858 7012 (Janice); E: janice@catholicspi.org

SATURDAY AUGUST 24 TO SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 1 HEARTSPACE EXHIBITION: BE STILL AND KNOW – PRAYING WITH ART 9am-8.30pm (Sat-Sun); 6-9pm (Mon-Fri): Opening reception at 3pm on Aug 24; Fringe event: Talk by resident art therapist at Heartspace@StMary, Joanna Tan, from 3-4.30pm on Aug 25. The visual journeys of more than 40 participants will be exhibited with the majority of artworks going on sale. Proceeds will be donated to the church maintenance fund and the Open Studio. At Church of St Mary of the Angels St Clare Hall.

AUGUST 29 HOLY HOUR FOR VOCATIONS 8-9pm: At Church of the Holy Family Adoration Room. T: 9005 1611 (Christopher Fernandez)

AUGUST 24 OVERCOMING DEPRESSION 12.30-2pm: The talk focuses on the symptoms and causes of depression while

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FRIDAY AUGUST 30 TO SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 1 RETROUVAILLE WEEKEND – A LIFELINE FOR TROUBLED AND HURTING MARRIAGE Fri (8pm)-Sun (6pm): If you are serious about making your marriage work, this programme could be worthwhile for you. T: 6749 8861 (Michael/Lucy). Register W: http://helpourmarriage.sg AUGUST 30 EUCHARISTIC ADORATION FOR YOUNG ADULTS 238 Â?4 ¤ @ & 7 adoration and benediction. By Generation CHRIST! Ministry. At St Francis Xavier Chapel Kingsmead Hall (Church of St Ignatius). E: gen.christ.ministry@gmail.com AUGUST 31 HEARTBEATS FOR LIFE 9am-6pm: Explore what Catholics have to + contraception, abortion, pornography, euthanasia, homosexuality and many others. By Apostolate for Catholic Truth. At Church of Sts Peter and Paul. T: 9380 1581 (Andy); E: enquiries@prolife.caritashost.sg; Register W: http://prolife.caritashost.sg/site/ AUGUST 31 SSVP TALK AND WORKSHOP 1-5 pm: For those working with the poor and needy. Topics: Psychology of the Poor by Ms Vivienne Ng, Chief Psychologist in MSF and When the Talking becomes " & ! Z ' ( H" Kampong Kapor FSC. At SPI (2 Highland Rd). Register E: svdp88@gmail.com SEPTEMBER 4 RELAXATION EXERCISES IN ENGLISH 10-11am: Therapeutic breathing and guided imagery exercises will be taught to release tension, boost energy and mood to help one stay calm and stable in midst of the stresses of life. By Clarity Singapore. At Block 854 #01-3511, Yishun Ring Road. Register: 67577 990 (Rudy); E: registration@clarity-singapore.org FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 6 TO SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 8 MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER WEEKEND Fri (8pm)-Sun (6pm): A live-in marriage enrichment programme for happily married couples. Come for this once-in-alifetime experience to equip yourselves on this till-the-end-of-time journey of love. At 201-B Punggol 17th Avenue. Register T: 9670 5390 (Vincent & Julyn); E: register@marriage-encounter-sg.org

DOWN 1 Unlucky in Rome? 2 Doctrines 3 Affected 4 Cash ending? 5 Photo device 6 Tickle pink 7 Permits 8 Movie about Capote 9 Throttle 10 Become visible 11 Sad 12 Decayed 13 Palms are burned to make these 18 Tradition says Bartholomew preached here 23 â€œâ€Śhe suffered, _____ and was buried.â€? 25 Golden Fleece ship 26 Ones, to Pierre 27 Nephew of Abraham 28 First in a Latin trio

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Solution to Crossword Puzzle No. 1090 www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

ACROSS 1 Number for the last Leo 5 People St. Patrick converted 10 Trac II successor 14 Woe _____! 15 Wide-awake 16 Career golfers 17 Approval word 19 Essential substance 20 OT prophetic book

21 “Immediately they left their ____ and followed him.� (Mk 1:18) 22 “_____ Fideles� 24 Nucleus of a regiment 26 Eastern Rite Churches in union with Rome 27 Level of reverence reserved to God alone 29 Made irate 30 Alpha and ____

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FRIDAY SEPTEMBER 6 TO SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 8 MONSIEUR VINCENT THE MUSICAL 8pm (daily) with extra show on Sep 7 at 2pm: The Church of St Vincent de Paul is celebrating its 50th anniversary with a musical performance depicting the life of St Vincent, how his spirit of humility and patience leads him to overcome his challenges to become the symbol of love and strength for the poor all over the world, and an example for all Christians to follow. At Republic Polytechnic Cultural Centre. Cost of tickets: $20, $30, $50 (all 8pm shows); $15, $25, $40 (2pm show). Tickets purchase: T: 9687 1942 (Anne-Marie Lai); E: svdpmusical2013@gmail.com SEPTEMBER 6 INTERRELIGIOUS DIALOGUE LEARNING TRIPS FOR YOUTH & YOUNG ADULTS 3-5.30pm: These trips are efforts to initiate and involve Catholics into the unfamiliar grounds of the beauty and wonder of interreligious dialogue in the spirit of the Second Vatican Council. They consist of a mandatory 2-hour orientation and formation session prior

+ Â&#x; Â visit proper, and an immediate debrief. At Silat Road Sikh Temple (8 Jalan Bukit Merah). Register T:6858 7016 (Gerald); E: gerald@catholicspi.org SEPTEMBER 7, SEPTEMBER 10 TO 11, SEPTEMBER 12 TO 13 PAINTING MY WAY TO GOD 8-10pm (Sept 7) Talk; 10am-5pm (Sept 1011/Sept 12-13) workshops. Fr John Quigley, OFM, will speak from a Franciscan theology about the invitation that we have from God to co-operate in the process of creation, self expression and discovery. Cost: $20 (talk), $250 (2-day workshop inclusive of talk, basic art materials & lunch). At Church of St Mary of the Angels. Register E: heartspace.stmary@gmail.com

SEPTEMBER 14 CATHOLIC SINGLES JB DAY TRIP 9am-6pm: For travel, fellowship and friendship. Meet at Woodlands MRT McDonalds. FB: https://www.facebook. com/CatholicSinglesSingapore; Register E: CatholicSingle@gmail.com SEPTEMBER 14 MEDITATIVE PRAYER USING THE SONGS OF TAIZE 8-9.30pm: At the Armenian Church of St Gregory the Illuminator (60 Hill Street). T: 9837 7256 (Benny); E: bennycah@gmail.com; W: http://www.taize.fr/en WEDNESDAY SEPTEMBER 18 TO WEDNESDAY NOVEMBER 6 WALKING TO ETERNITYENGAGING THE STRUGGLES OF YOUR HEART 9.30-11.30am: A DVD-based programme by Jeff & Emily Cavins; Open your eyes to obstacles in our Christian walk such as greed, envy, fear and shame. Through prayer, we can learn crucial steps toward overcoming these ( ' / & # Register T: 8228 8220 (Clare); E: HSBibleApostolate@gmail.com SEPTEMBER 21 EXAM RALLY: CROSS EXAMINATION 2-5pm: Holy Mass will be offered ” examinations. Presided by Friar Edward Lim, OCD. No registration needed; all students are cordially invited. At Blessed Sacrament Church. SEPTEMBER 22 EL-SHADDAI DWXI PPFI SINGAPORE 22ND ANNIVERSARY 9am-6pm: At Toa Payoh Sports Hall (297A, Lorong 6 Toa Payoh). T: 6474 0714 (Jun)

SEPTEMBER 8 IHM BLOODMOBILE MERCY OUTREACH 9am-6pm: Our blood is God’s gift of life. Donate blood and save up to three lives. For 16-60 years old and those above 45kg. Bring NRIC/passport. At Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary Church Hall (24 Highland Rd). W: http://www.ihm.sg/bloodmobile

SATURDAY SEPTEMBER 28 TO SATURDAY OCTOBER 5 MISSION TRIP TO PHILIPPINES Calling young adults for mission trip to Tagaytay, Philippines. Register early as limited space available. ' & › " Missionaries. Register T: 6274 0251; E: verbumdeispore@yahoo.com.sg

SEPTEMBER 13 TEACHERS’ DAY MASS AND RECEPTION 4.30-5.30pm: Mass will be celebrated by Archbishop William Goh and will be followed by a reception. All teachers are invited (irrespective of participation the Catholic Education Conference). By ACCS. At Catholic Junior College Performing Arts Centre. Register T: 6858 7080 (Shirley); E: accs@catholic.org.sg

NOVEMBER 28 TO DECEMER 7 OR DECEMBER 1 TO DECEMBER 7 QUIETING THE SOUL RETREAT IN CHIANGMAI Choice of 5 days (Dec 1 to Dec 7) or 8 days retreat (Nov 28 to Dec 7). A silent retreat at Seven Fountains Chiangmai, Thailand. Dates inclusive of travel time. By Cenacle Sisters. Register by Sept 30. T: 6565 2895/9722 3148; E: cenaclesing@gmail.com; W: http://www.catholic.org.sg/cenacle

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PUBLISHED BY THE CATHOLIC NEWS, 2 HIGHLAND ROAD #01-03, SINGAPORE 549102. PRINTED BY TIMES PRINTERS PRIVATE LIMITED, 16 TUAS AVENUE 5, SINGAPORE 639340.

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