Catholic New Issuel 19 2018

A publication of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 16, 2018

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EXCLUSIVE

Nun recalls the day her prayers saved her from harm Carmelite Sister Francede talks about her intimate love for God and how she hopes to share this love with others through prayer

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INSIDE Promoting a safe environment Statement on the Archdiocese Professional Standards Office n Page 19

Photo: VITA Images

“Listen to your heart attentively and you will know that the deepest form of love is that which comes from God.” – Sr Francede, seen here at her solemn profession

Our Lady procession returns to Novena Church Emotional experience for devotees n Page 2

Seminarians urged to be good role models Leadership qualities stressed at seminary blessing n Page 6

Celebrating Catholic Education Sunday Parents, educators on the strengths of Catholic education n Pages 10-11

Jared Ng Before she knew about the Religious life, Francede was in Thailand working as a caregiver for the elderly.

One evening in 2004 when she was 24, she took a taxi in Bangkok and was heading to her friend’s house.

After an hour’s ride, she sensed that the driver was taking her to a different route, certainly not the way to her destination. Instinctively, she put her hand into her handbag and reached out for her rosary.

Though terrified, she calmed herself and began saying her prayers

to Our Mother. Her quick-thinking action was noticed by the driver when he stopped his vehicle at a secluded spot, came out of the driver’s seat and glared at her.

Undeterred, Francede kept her fingers on the rosary beads reciting her prayers, and taking an occasional glance at the driver. The man backed off after seeing her praying. Mother Mary must have intervened. He got back into the taxi and drove her straight to her friend’s house. The harrowing journey ended safely for her but it made a strong impression on Francede.

This was one encounter that

fuelled her desire for prayers and she was subsequently introduced to the Carmelite Sisters working as missionaries in Myanmar by a friend.

“God has called me to intimacy with Him and the Carmelite way of life has drawn me like a magnet,” and this was how she became Carmelite Sister Francede.

“Through this intimacy with God, He calls me to love others even more and this is how I hope to reach out through prayer,” she said.

Sr Francede, who moved to Singapore from Myanmar in 2010 to serve as a counsellor to the many people who came for prayers at the

Carmelite Monastery, made her solemn profession on Sept 4.

In his homily during the celebration, Archbishop William Goh said that “a priest or Religious finds his or her calling because they have fallen in love with Jesus. This is the most important. If there is no love, everything becomes a chore.”

Contemplative life, which Sr Francede has chosen, will demand even more and there will be challenges, said Archbishop Goh. It is a “purification and deepening process each day so continue

Our parish communities

n Continued on Page 16

n Pages 14-15

Featuring Church of St Mary of the Angels n Pages 12-13

Saluting our Jubilarians Honouring priests and Religious celebrating special milestones

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Devotees gathered around to photograph the crowned icon of Our Lady. Photos: MICHAEL LIEW

Return of the annual Our Lady procession to Novena Church Jared Ng “Mary, Our Mother of Perpetual Help, we remember today all the times you have stood by us fervently in prayer ... We ask that you continue to pray for us and our families.”

Redemptorist Father Simon Pereira proclaimed these heartfelt words during his homily at the Sept 2 Mass which was the first procession of Our Lady’s icon since Novena Church underwent a major rebuilding programme in 2015. The church was officially reopened in September last year.

Against the backdrop of the natural disasters and conflicts that have impacted countries as well as the scandals in the Church, Fr Simon implored Our Lady to continue to watch over the faithful and “help us be a community that cares for the poor and abandoned.”

Rector Fr Peter Wee, in his address at the end of Mass, said that “Mary is indeed a treasure that Jesus has given to the whole Church ... Ultimately, she wants us to look at Jesus.”

Thousands packed the church grounds eager to catch a glimpse of the icon of Our

Lady as it made its way solemnly around the compound. Those seated in the church watched the event unfold via television screens. In unison they sang hymns as the icon made its way around.

Many arrived well before the 6 pm procession to take part in praise and worship and the rosary recitation.

Ms Jane Ong, who brought her two sons for their first procession, said she was left “speechless and in awe” as the icon of Our Lady made its way past her. “Our local Church community’s devotion to Mary is so powerful and I think this was never more evident than today,” she said.

Mr Gary Sim, who has been attending the annual procession for about 40 years, said, “I missed the celebration so much when Novena was under repair. I would walk by [the church] almost every day waiting for this day to come and I was moved to tears when it finally happened. All love to our dearest Mother and Jesus Our Saviour.” n jared.ng@catholic.org.sg

The icon of Our Lady making its way around the church compound.

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being stewards of god’s gifts

In this extract from his homily, Father Francis Vijayan explains the importance of being mindful that everything we have is not ours alone. He also reminds us that we are all stewards of the Lord’s many gifts.

There is a need to recognise two instances in which many of us take God for granted.

the lord’s grace The first instance is when we take what He has given us for granted. To name a few, the number of years we are given on this earth, our health, being physically able, and the ability to see and hear. Sure, we may take care of what we have, but being born with them has very little to do with us.

The second instance is when we claim all the credit for certain achievements.

We sometimes claim our successes in life are due to our own efforts - the result of our own hard work. We may say we are rich because we are smart or because we have worked very hard. To be born with a good mind or being a hard worker is also God’s grace. Even our children are all gifts from the Lord.

We often forget to remind ourselves that not everything we have is the fruit of our labour alone.

It is a combination of our work with many other

factors that are beyond our control. Some may feel that somehow things have come together to work in their favour. Others may even go as far as to say the universe conspired to make something happen or that it was a product of positive energy that drew good things towards us.

recognising his blessings As Catholics, we simply view all these gifts as God’s providence or God’s blessings. Every gift we have comes from God for He is the creator of all things.

God’s gifts can come in many forms - money, health, children, our lives, skills, time, spiritual gifts, etc.

What is God asking of us with all the gifts and talents He has blessed us with?

being responsible stewards We need to recognise that all the gifts and resources we receive from God belong to him. We are merely stewards of God’s gifts. As stewards, our responsibility includes how wisely we share the gifts entrusted to us with the community,

so that, through us, God can bestow His love and blessings on others. It is only by sharing with others that our gifts can grow.

Many of us are guilty of acting as if we own all of God’s gifts we have. The result is the irresponsible use of what we are blessed with. The parable of the tenants reminds us that what we have, are only on lease to us. So often, we become so comfortable with the freedom and power we are given in dealing with our gifts that we think they belong to us alone.

Just think about how we use our wealth, what we do with our bodies, our skills and our time. Think about how we sometimes control what our children should do with their lives. We can even go as far as killing the spirit of love we share with others when we do so.

In another parable - the parable of the talents, we are reminded that just like for the three servants, God will hold us accountable for how we use our gifts and talents to build His Kingdom on earth. Do we

god will hold us accountable for how we use our gifts and talents to build his kingdom on earth. do we act like stewards or owners of our talents?

act like stewards or owners of our talents?

The second letter of Peter proclaims that grace and peace will be multiplied as we come to know our Lord better. When we do not place our security in the Lord or when we do not acknowledge that the gifts we receive from God to steward are not for our self-indulgence, we will start placing our security on fleeting, materialistic things.

The more we place our faith in the Lord for our needs, the more willing we will be to share our talents and gifts with others for God’s glory.

Fr Francis Vijayan, CSsR, from the Church of St Alphonsus (Novena Church), is the most recently ordained Redemptorist priest in Singapore. Photo: Vita Images

Our archdiocese envisions a more vibrant, missionary and evangelistic Church. As the fundraising arm of the Archdiocese of Singapore, the Catholic Foundation has launched the Giving in Faith & Thankfulness (GIFT) campaign to urge every Catholic to participate in making the vision of the archdiocese a reality.

Gift Now

gift.catholicfoundation.sg

a series contributed by

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My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, You must be wondering what is going on in the minds and hearts of the Archbishop and his priests with regard to the revelation in August 2018 that some 300 priests had sexually abused over a thousand minors in Pennsylvania over the last 70 years. Like you, we are shocked and dismayed at the severity and extent of the abuse described.

Some of the clergy implicated operated at the highest echelons of power in the US church. We feel extremely sad that those young people have been hurt, and are suffering even now, the effects of the trauma of being abused by the very people who were entrusted to protect and to shepherd their souls. As clergy, we feel terribly ashamed and betrayed by the evil and selfish acts of our brother priests who slaked their lust on the young and vulnerable children placed under their care, stripping them of their innocence.

We are even more scandalized to read that some Church leaders deepened the pain by snuffing out evidence and shielding their subordinates.

Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

We are as bewildered as you with regard to the many diverse and conflicting reports on the sex abuse of minors in the United States. We are in no position to judge the merits of the various allegations. We have to depend on those responsible to seek out the truth so that justice can be done. It is best at this stage not to speculate but to wait for the events to unfold, as the gospel says, “For there is nothing hidden that will not be disclosed, and nothing concealed that will not be known or brought out into the open.” (Lk 8:17) Let us trust that good and sincere leaders of the Church are searching for the truth and will get the answers for us.

are on the fringe are now convinced that this is not where they want to be. Those whose faith is not strong are ashamed to be associated with the Church. This is understandable, because the credibility of the Church’s leadership has been greatly affected. The entire Church is suffering because of the wolves who have infiltrated the Church in sheep skin.

Our hearts grieve at the deplorable state of the Church’s affairs. With the growing number of revelations and scathing reports from the media, we cannot but begin to doubt our Church leaders. The faith of the People of God has been greatly shaken. Some have left the Church. Many who have embraced the faith against all odds wonder if they have made the right decision. Yet others who

Nevertheless, we must also recognize that there is much goodness in the Church founded by Christ. Of the more than 400,000 priests in the world, the great majority have striven to be faithful to their calling, and to live good and holy lives. They have given their lives in service to the people of God generously and humbly, attending to the sick, burying our loved ones, counselling the wounded,

praying for us, leading us in worship and instructing us in our faith. They are there when we need help and support most.

Sadly, they have been tarred with the same brush by the world, shouldering the blame for the failures of their fellow priests, just like those who are unjustly implicated when their spouse commits a crime. We must be careful not to throw the baby out with the bathwater. More than ever, with all the negative reports, our faithful must stand up and show their support for the good priests they have encountered in their lives. As human beings, we priests need your encouragement and support. We also feel ashamed and disheartened at the state of affairs.

The scandals abroad are a wakeup call for us, as the Catholic Church in

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Singapore has not been spared allegations of child abuse. Over the years, a handful of cases have been brought to our attention. These were handed over to the Professional Standards Office (PSO) of the Archdiocese for investigation. Thus far, all the cases have been judged to be inconclusive by the PSO, and confirmed by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith in Rome.

As Archbishop, I want to assure you that, to the best of my knowledge, there has been no cover-up in our archdiocese. The PSO, set up by my predecessor in 2011, and subsequently enhanced during my tenure as Archbishop, is the instrument by which the Church deals with sex abuse complaints. Staffed by lay professionals, its investigations are conducted at arm’s length from the Archbishop. This is to ensure total impartiality and non-interference from the Archbishop’s Office.

Any allegations of abuse should now also be reported to the police when the PSO takes up the case. This is to discourage falsified or exaggerated claims which malign the innocent, as the pain of being questioned and living under suspicion while waiting for judgement to be pronounced can be as traumatic for these priests as it is for those who have truly been abused.

Since prevention is better than cure, the Archdiocese has also put in place systems and processes to protect the People of God by reducing the risk of sexual abuse. The PSO has already issued guidelines for the creation of a safe environment in our parishes and organisations, and will soon announce how they are to be enhanced. All priests, religious and workers employed by the archdiocese must declare that they have not been convicted of any sex offences.

Those with known records will not be allowed to work in ministry or mingle with the vulnerable. Soon, all seminarians and novices who want to join priestly or religious life will not only have to sign this declaration but they would be subjected to more stringent psychological tests and background checks. There is a need also to ensure that our Church volunteers, especially those dealing with children, are vetted and cleared of sexual crimes against children. I seek the understanding of Church volunteers why such a step is necessary. I would like to appeal to those who are lawyers, doctors, psychiatrists, and counsellors to offer their service to the PSO. Finally, every scandal is also a stepping stone for growth. The Church is undergoing testing and purification. The

I invite you to join me in a day of Fast, celebration of Holy Mass and Holy Hour for the healing and purification of the Church in holiness on the Feast of the Triumph of the Holy Cross: Date & Time Venue

: :

Friday, 14 September, 2018, 6.30pm Cathedral of the Good Shepherd

exposure of such crimes is good for the Church in the long run. It purifies the Church, ensures the highest integrity of our Church leaders, and helps them to be more discerning in accepting Church workers or candidates to the priesthood and religious life. Guided by the Holy Spirit, we will come out of this crisis stronger. In the meantime, I appeal to you to pray for the victims and for the Church; for Pope Francis and the leaders of the Church to have wisdom and to find courage to take the necessary actions to rectify the abuses and prevent future incidents. We need your prayers and mortifications. Please pray for me, your archbishop, for wisdom, courage and strength. Pray for your priests, religious and Church workers to walk the way of truth and holiness. I encourage all parishes to organise Holy Hour and prayer vigils to pray for healing and unity in the Church. More than ever, we need to pray for God’s forgiveness for the evil that we have allowed into the sanctuary of His Church, for the pain and suffering of her wounded children, for the divisiveness that these scandals have brought to the Church, and for abandoning Jesus Christ who never abandons us even in our darkest hour.

Let us take heed of the advice of St Paul. “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his power. Put on the whole armour of God, so that you may be able to stand against the wiles of the devil. For our struggle is not against enemies of blood and flesh, but against the rulers, against the authorities, against the cosmic powers of this present darkness, against the spiritual forces of evil in the heavenly places. Therefore take up the whole armour of God, so that you may be able to withstand on that evil day, and having done everything, to stand firm.

Stand therefore, and fasten the belt of truth around your waist, and put on the breastplate of righteousness. As shoes for your feet put on whatever will make you ready to proclaim the gospel of peace. With all of these, take the shield of faith, with which you will be able to quench all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God. Pray in the Spirit at all times in every prayer and supplication. To that end keep alert and always persevere in supplication for all the saints.” (Eph 6:1018) United in love and prayers for the healing of the Church,

Most Rev. William Goh Archbishop of Singapore Page 19

Promoting a safe environment: PSO

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The new St Francis Xavier Seminary is next to St Joseph’s Church (Bukit Timah).

Father Valerian Cheong blessing the building which he hopes will bring “about a renewal and a growth of vocations to the priesthood”.

Seminarians must be good role models, says Archbishop Jared Ng Seminarians were reminded by Archbishop William Goh of the three leadership qualities they must have as they prepare for their formation to the priesthood, namely, humility, compassion and collaboration.

He acknowledged the many challenges that the Church faces today to attract young men and women to serve God as priests or Religious. The community has high expectations of the clergy, and it didn’t help with the recent sex abuse scandals involving the clerics. Archbishop Goh made these points in his homily to celebrate the opening and blessing of

the newly completed St Francis Xavier Seminary on Aug 22. The seminary sits on freehold land next to St Joseph’s Church (Bukit Timah).

One way to combat the challenges is for Church leaders to be “good role models and examples” for future generations of leaders, he said. The real vocation promotion is through “living a life of joy and humble service” for Christ, he added.

Archbishop Goh, said that because the seminary now shares its premises with the Catholic Theological Institute of Singapore (CTIS) for the formation of laypeople, “there should be more collaborative efforts for the work

of evangelisation for the growth of the Archdiocese.” He said laity and clergy must be co-responsible for teaching and sharing the Good News.

He reminded the seminarians to take their formation seriously and responsibly and this means working with everyone, including laypeople when it comes to formation.

Seminary Rector Father Valerian Cheong expressed his gratitude to all involved in building the seminary and hopes that “the seminary will continue being that beacon of light for the faith of the people of God here in Singapore.

Also, that it brings about a renewal and a growth of vocations to the

priesthood in these challenging times.”

Brother Timothy Soo, a second-year seminarian, said the official blessing of the seminary represented “a renewal of life” for him.

He is looking forward to continue building a fraternal bond with his fellow seminarians and “to bring this brotherhood to the Church”.

Br Shaun Lim, who is in his fourth year regency programme, expressed his joy and happiness as “we seminarians now have a place we can call our own”.

He said he hopes that the community spirit and the shared experiences of Christ within the seminary can be a place to produce shepherds for the Church.

There are currently 10 seminarians living in the four-storey seminary building with a basement. It is shared with CTIS when laypeople come for their formation and studies.

The two upper floors of the building are dedicated to the seminary. There are live-in quarters for

seminarians and priests, a dining room and kitchen, gym, prayer room and chapel with an open-tosky courtyard with a Marian water feature.

The CTIS office is on the first floor, while the second floor houses the seminary offices and quarters for priests.

The first floor and basement are for common use by the seminary, CTIS and other Church groups on an availability basis. There are 10 classrooms, a multi-purpose hall, a meeting room, a canteen and a two-storey library that is managed by CTIS. The topics covered in the eight years of seminary studies are: 1st year – Initiation Year.

2nd year – Philosophy Studies.

3rd year – Philosophy Studies.

4th year – Regency year (usually in the parish, but not necessarily).

5th-8th years – Theology Studies. n jared.ng@catholic.org.sg

HISTORY

Archbishop William Goh incensing during the blessing ceremony.

The St Francis Xavier Major Seminary was established by the late Archbishop Gregory Yong in 1983, with Fr Noel Chin as the first Rector.

From 1983-1987, the major seminary operated at the premises of the minor seminary at Upper Serangoon Road. In August 1987, it moved to its new location at 199 Punggol Seventeenth Avenue. It was officially opened and blessed on

Jan 28, 1988, by Archbishop Yong.

On Dec 30, 2015, the major seminary made another move to its temporary premises at the Church of St Teresa.

In November 2016, a groundbreaking service was held to kickstart construction works of the new seminary at St Joseph’s Church. n Source: https://seminary. catholic.sg/our-history/.

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Learning how to overcome setbacks Taking a cue from piecing broken ceramics

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A Brisbane Catholic principal guiding local educators on how to mend broken art pieces during their retreat. Photos: ACCS

Karen Matilda Tan The next time you feel broken or experience hopelessness, well don’t despair. Take a leaf from the Japanese art of kintsugi, where by repairing broken ceramics you are able to give new life to pottery. And, the end product may be even better than the original.

This was the lesson shared by a team from Brisbane, Australia, with some 100 Catholic school teachers and principals during a recent retreat. They found that in kintsugi one learns that there is an alternative way to add value to a broken object.

In fact, the principle in this art can be applied to help students

view setbacks as opportunities for growth.

The special retreat was conducted by a team from the Brisbane Catholic Education office (BCE) at St Joseph’s Institution on Aug 17 and 18. It is part of an ongoing collaboration between the Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic Schools (ACCS) and BCE. This year’s theme was on finding strength and new life in brokenness.

The participants were given broken ceramic bowls and art pieces to repair as an experience of how failures and imperfections can become a focal point of beauty and a source of healing.

Many saw a spiritual connection between the activity and

Montfort students serving Brisbane educators Teochew porridge during their lunch.

their role as educators, finding new insights on how to guide students to look at setbacks as opportunities for growth and learning.

Participants also watched video clips on how people who have encountered severe setbacks emerged all the stronger.

Prior to the retreat, 20 educators from Brisbane Catholic schools visited local Catholic schools to learn about the teaching and learning practices in these institutions’ diverse settings.

From Aug 13-17, they visited St Anthony’s Primary School, Canossa Convent Primary School, CHIJ St Nicholas, Montfort Secondary School, SJI International

and Catholic Junior College.

At Canossa Convent Primary, the visitors learnt of the school’s programme to successfully integrate students from the Canossian School for children with hearing loss into mainstream primary school, with the help of special education teachers.

Canossa Convent Primary is part of the larger Canossian Eduplex which includes the Canossian School, a pre-school and the Canossaville Children and Community Services.

Ms Michaela Lewis from Holy Spirit School at Bray Park, Brisbane, commented, “This was a joyful and caring community. I was amazed by the level of sup-

port that the students received.’’

Another highlight was the visit to Montfort Secondary School where the boys whipped up a six-course Teochew porridge lunch to the delight of their guests. Some of the specialities included garlic prawns, braised doufu and chye poh omelette.

The boys were coached by professional chefs as part of an elective module on culinary skills offered to students with an interest in the culinary arts.

This is the sixth year that ACCS and BCE have collaborated on this Teaching and Learning exchange programme. Educators from both sides have said they look forward to a further sharing of ideas. n

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Bringing parishioners Baptism is just the start closer through sports of a life-long journey to

know Christ, says Archbishop Photo: VITA Images

The fun way to bonding for parishioners young and old.

Andrew Kiflie If you think this is all kids’ stuff – then think again. This is a game with a serious objective in mind.

It is the Church of St Anthony’s way of getting everyone to take part in a Street Challenge.

The winner is all the parishioners who took part – they made lasting friendships and made many new friends.

“I enjoyed the games a lot with my teammates and my greatest takeaway was that it is important to just have fun in the games,” said Madeline Ng, 20. “Winning isn’t as important.”

For Gladys Toh, 14, the games held at the Mega Sports Park at Woodlands Avenue 1 on Aug 22 was all about connecting with fellow parishioners. “I really became closer to others,” she said.

Madeline and Gladys were among 120 parishioners – from young kids to those above 50 – who took part in the games, which is held annually since 2011.

Initially aimed at the youth, to help them bond with one another over some friendly competition, the organisers subsequently de-

cided to expand them to include all parishioners.

The games played ranged from soccer, basketball and captain’s ball – you take your pick.

The excitement and intense competition helped to nurture a spirit of camaraderie among the players.

For example, when a team had to play with one person less because she suffered a leg sprain, the opposing team voluntarily got one of its players to opt out so that both sides could continue the game with equal number of players.

Certainly, this friendly spirit bodes well for the future of church parishioners.

There was also a section for children below 12, in which they played a scaled down version of the three sports and also frisbee.

For Alex Devadass, 48, his biggest takeaway was “the whole concept of bringing the Children of God together for sports”.

Isabelle Tan, 21, one of the organisers, added: “The Street Challenge is an event which allows the parish to get to know one another through sports. Youth, adult, it doesn’t matter because in the end we are just one!” n

Archbishop William Goh addressing catechumens as part of their preparation for the Sacraments of Initiation.

Alfred Yap Read the Word of the God and pray with adoration, contrition, thanksgiving and supplication.

These were words of advice that Archbishop William Goh gave to about 500 RCIA (Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults) catechumens across the archdiocese as part of their preparation for the Sacraments of Initiation into the Catholic Church.

They, together with their coordinators and some sponsors, had gathered at the Church of St Bernadette on Aug 25 to listen to the Archbishop as he helped them better understand what it means to be a disciple of Christ.

In his talk, Archbishop Goh encouraged the catechumens to acquire the habit of reading the Word of God daily and stressed

the importance of having a personal Bible. In times of need, he said, a familiar word from the Bible can be recalled easily to help them respond to a challenging situation.

This will also help a person to know Jesus Christ, “the Word made flesh, better”, he said.

Archbishop Goh also emphasised that baptism should not to be regarded as a “graduation” from

“If you want to be a Catholic Christian, it is very important to have your own Bible… you are going to make footnotes, you are going to highlight, that is why you need your own Bible.”

– Archbishop Goh

a course. Rather, it should mark the beginning of a lifelong process of getting to know the person of Jesus more and more intimately.

Archbishop Goh recommended one way of praying using the acronym “ACTS”: • Adoration: adoring God in all His glory and majesty as they begin their dialogue with God in humility.

• Contrition: acknowledging

one’s shortcomings and sinfulness before God. • Thanksgiving: giving thanks to God for all His blessings.

• Supplication: asking God for one’s needs and wants.

One must also be open to listen to the Word of God and not be blinded by one’s sufferings and thus fail to notice His blessings, said Archbishop Goh. Catechumens who attended the session said they found it welltimed as it was the beginning of their RCIA journey. Many were happy to hear from the chief catechist himself and found his catechesis informative and easy to follow.

Others shared that it helped them to better understand what it means to be a disciple of God and how to build a relationship with God through prayer and the reading of the Word of God. Organised by the Office for Catechesis, the session was the first of a series of four meetings with the Archbishop for those in the 2018/2019 RCIA process.

These meetings were first held for catechumens in the previous 2017/2018 RCIA process.

To find out more about future Archbishop’s Catechesis for Catechumens and the RCIA process, email rcia@catechesis.org.sg.

The Office for Catechesis website can also be accessed at catechesis.org.sg n

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Catholics learn more about building intercommunal bonds

Meditating on a Gospel passage through sight and sound

A sharing by Alvin on his painting on the calm after Jesus had quietened the storm.

Msgr Heng and MCCY’s Ms Goh (front) were among the speakers at the seminar.

The important roles that Catholic religious and community leaders play in building relationships with their counterparts from other communities was highlighted at a seminar recently The Archdiocesan Catholic Council for Interreligious Dialogue (ACCIRD) Social Cohesion Seminar was held at the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd on Aug 25.

It was organised together with the Ministry of Culture, Community and Youth (MCCY) for Catholic members of Inter-Racial and Religious Confidence Circles (IRCCs). Forty-seven IRCC representatives from 29 parishes attended.

During the seminar, Monsignor Philip Heng, the VicarGeneral for Interreligious Relations, noted that ever since Nostra Aetate, the Second Vatican Council’s 1965 Declaration On The Relation Of The Church To Non-Christian Religions, popes had worked to strengthen interreligious relations throughout the world.

Ms Goh Ching Hsia, Assistant Director of MCCY’s Community Relations and Engagement Division, outlined the aim of IRCCs (see other story).

She also stressed the important roles that Catholic IRCC representatives play as religious and community leaders in networking and building relationships with their counterparts from other communities.

Ms Goh noted that IRCCs could facilitate collaborations between religious and other organisations to reach out to the wider community, for example, through IRCC and SG Cares initiatives.

SG Cares is a national movement to build a more caring and

inclusive home for all, through acts of consideration and care, active volunteerism and organising ground-up efforts, explained MCCY’s Mr Chng Tze Kia, who is Assistant Director with the SG Cares Secretariat.

Mr Gerald Kong, ACCIRD’s Executive Secretary, explained how Church teachings and documents like Nostra Aetate and Dialogue and Mission (1984) made interreligious dialogue an integral element in the Church’s mission.

“It is essential, and not merely optional, for Catholics to have not only a solid grounding in the Catholic faith, but also a good knowledge of the beliefs and practices of other religions,” said Mr Kong.

ACCIRD member Ms Michelle Voo introduced the four forms of dialogue set out in Dialogue and Mission – the dialogue of life, the dialogue of action, the dialogue of theological exchange, and the dialogue of religious experience.

Among the examples she gave

of the dialogue of theological exchange was ACCIRD’s Interreligious Panels of Jewish, Muslim and Catholic speakers who have come together to explain the meaning of birth, marriage and death according to their faith traditions.

IRCC representatives from the Church of St Mary of the Angels and the Church of the Transfiguration also shared how their parishes organise and participate in community outreach events.

Many participants found the seminar engaging. Ms Anne Chiang from St Joseph’s Church (Victoria Street) said she was happy to learn about the Church’s teachings on interreligious dialogue, and was particularly inspired by what the representatives from the two parishes shared.

In response to participants’ requests, MCCY and ACCIRD said there could be follow-up sessions.

For more information on upcoming ACCIRD activities, email gerald.accird@catholic.org.sg. n

What are IRCCs? There are 89 IRCCs in Singapore with each IRCC comprising leaders from local religious, ethnic and community organisations. Each constituency has at least one IRCC. IRCCs are local-level interfaith platforms that play a critical role in promoting racial and religious harmony and social cohesion under the SGSecure movement, which aims to prepare the public to stay united and resilient in the event of terrorist attacks or other crises and

incidents with racial and/or religious overtones.

During peace time, IRCCs work to foster friendships and build trust so that challenges and strains on social cohesion are better withstood nationwide during crises.

In the aftermath of a crisis, IRCCs will be the key link to disseminate timely and accurate information, collect feedback, and maintain confidence in the local community. n Source: MCCY

The venue was not a church but it was a meeting room. At the front, instead of a rostrum there was an easel and a white canvas mounted.

Everyone sat in anticipation as Mr Sylvester Singh from the Office for the New Evangelisation (ONE) read out the Gospel of Mark 4:35-41, where Jesus urged His disciples to have faith after they feared drowning in the storm.

It was a prayer session. To be more accurate, it was a prayer with an element of meditation.

The 30-odd people in the audience were asked to visualise the image of the Gospel passage that was read to them. They were each given paper, pen and pencil. And as they listened to the reading accompanied by the sound of the sea, the waves and the storm, they were asked to write words and draw images that came to their mind.

“Place yourself in the Gospel story as it’s being read, as if you were there,” said Mr Singh.

Meanwhile, Alvin Mark Tan put his artistic talent to work.

He drew the scene of the peace that ensued after Jesus stilled the waves and the storm had subsided. He is a full-time artist and a parishioner of the Church of the Holy Family.

The participants were attending Faith in the City, an event organised by ONE on Aug 25 at

The Catholic Centre in Waterloo Street.

According to ONE, the purpose of painting the scene was to help the participants gain a deeper appreciation of the faith by using a visual medium in addition to hearing the Gospel text.

“Jesus Christ is the central figure of Christianity, and it is in Jesus Christ that we place our faith, hope, trust and confidence,” Mr Singh told the participants, some of whom were not Catholics.

The event also saw participants sharing their appreciation of the gift of faith that they have received and which has seen them through difficult moments in life.

Ms Cindy Foo, who is not a Catholic, and who was invited to the event by her Catholic friend, said, “I heard a lot about Jesus from people and I want to know Him more. So, this was a good opportunity to discover the Christian faith.”

Artist Alvin also shared that creating the Bible scene on canvas gave him a sense of peace and calm.

ONE aims to inspire, equip and support Catholics to be agents of the New Evangelisation through their personal witness, community life and the explicit proclamation of the Good News.

The ONE website is at one. org.sg n

10 HOME

Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

Sun

The draw of Catholic educatio Parents and educators share what they believe are the strengths of Catholic education in this feature to mark Catholic Education Sunday, celebrated on the weekend of Sept 8-9.

Christopher Khoo THOUGH both Mrs Maggie Lee Dabbs and her husband were not Catholics when their son was due for school enrolment, they decided to put him into St Joseph’s Institution Junior in 2003.

“The choice of SJI was a decision we made as we wanted our son to grow up with values that both my husband and I believe in,” Mrs Dabbs told Catholic News. The couple felt that the Catholic school would reinforce what they taught him at home, “which is the respect for humanity and … a belief in the intrinsic value of life”.

“And we were not disappointed as his experience in Catholic schools have enabled him to grow up with these values,” said Mrs Dabbs. Her son, Spenser, later entered St Patrick’s School.

The experience of the Dabbs echo what many parents say about the positive impact that Catholic schooling have had their children.

In fact, many parents would attest to the merits in Catholic education such as faith foundation, character formation, moral values and building relationships in a multicultural society.

“A Catholic school provides many opportunities for my children to encounter God, such as at daily prayers, religious education and sharing of Christocentric school values,” said Ms Aileen Seah, whose two daughters aged 10 and 12 are in Canossa Convent Primary School (CCPS).

“I also appreciate the loving and inclusive environment in CCPS which helps my children to learn to embrace diversity in others, as well as the emphasis on strength of character, a readiness to forgive and love for our Lord as embodied by the school’s patron saints,” added Ms Seah.

Alex and Valerie Chan, who have two daughters aged 12 and 15 in CHIJ Kellock and CHIJ St Theresa’s Convent respectively, felt that a Catholic education further builds on the faith taught in the family.

“While faith starts at home, sending our children to a Catholic school also reinforces their faith foundation, so that they are raised as morally responsible individuals and will contribute back to society,” they told Catholic News in an email interview.

Mr Sean La’Brooy, who has three children in Catholic schools, is happy that this allows his children to put their faith into practice.

His son, Emmanuel, 13, is a member of the St Vincent de Paul Society in St Patrick’s School,

while his daughter, Therese, 9, was given an opportunity to be a prayer monitor in CHIJ Primary (Toa Payoh).

“Through these opportunities, both Emmanuel and Therese ... have come to appreciate the value of service to others,” he said.

Regular praise and worship sessions, rosary devotions and weekly Masses are among the many things that Mr Gilbert Tan appreciates in the schools he has sent this three sons to, namely SJI Junior and SJI Secondary.

“When most of the drilling of facts and figures for examinations are forgotten, the life and ethos of the schools will remain in the minds and hearts of those who pass through the doors of the Catholic schools.”

– Fr Edward Seah, ACCS

“The schools also organise exam Masses for the children where parents are also invited to pray with them as one big community,” said Mr Tan. “Another good thing is the presence of the prayer room or chapel in the school which allow the children to have a place to seek solace and comfort when they are down.”

FATHER EDWARD SEAH, Executive Director (Ad Interim) of

the Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic Schools (ACCS) believes that what is attractive about Catholic schools is the “culture that supports meaningful relationships among all partners: students, teachers, non-teaching staff, parents and former students”.

This includes shared stories, experiences, learnings, history, values, aspirations and faith, said Fr Edward.

“When most of the drilling of facts and figures for examinations are forgotten, the life and ethos

of the schools will remain in the minds and hearts of those who pass through the doors of the Catholic schools.”

He added that school leaders have made efforts to come together to provide the encouragement and support among themselves for a better future. “We are also working in communion with some Archdiocesan offices for the same reason,” said Fr Edward.

ACCS works with Catholic schools to strengthen the Catholic ethos in their communities, and

Gilbert and Aileen Tan and their family. Their sons (from left) Gilbert, Shawn and Samuel are all in Catholic schools.

support the religious, civics and moral education these schools provide.

Other Catholic educators stress the importance of the Catholic community working together to build up the faith of young people.

“There needs to be a very strong linkage between Church, family, school and community,” said Mr Wilbur Wong, principal of Montfort Junior School. “It is not good enough for our children to just be exposed to their faith on weekends when they attend Mass

or cate they h sions a Thr in scho to cont nity an said.

M of CH agrees. work t chance the uni created

Alex and Valerie Chan’s two daughters Isabelle (le CHIJ schools.

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Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

cation for students

cs and schools

s stress atholic her to people. a very Church, munity,” incipal . “It is hildren aith on d Mass

CHIJ Secondary (Toa Payoh), feels that Catholic educators need to be living examples of their faith just like the missionaries who set up their schools. With the dwindling number of Religious in schools these days, “we must perpetuate the legacy they began and left to us to continue,” he said.

“When parents and schools work together, they stand a better chance of forming children to be the unique individuals that God has created them to be.”

– Mrs Pauline Wong, principal of CHIJ St Theresa’s Convent

or catechism class, or even when they have their daily prayer sessions as a family.”

Through the religious activities in schools, students “will also learn to contribute back to the community and be witnesses of Christ,” he said.

Mrs Pauline Wong, principal of CHIJ St Theresa’s Convent, agrees. “When parents and schools work together, they stand a better chance of forming children to be the unique individuals that God has created them to be,” she said.

o daughters Isabelle (left) and Kathleen are both in

Catholic teachers note that they have a challenging role.

Mrs Audrey Chong, a teacher at Maris Stella High (Secondary), said that in an increasingly secular world, the challenge is not only speaking about God to non-believers in Catholic schools, “but even making this God real” to Catholic students.

“We still need to pray constantly to be discerning in our role as educators and especially as Catholic educators,” she shared.

Mr Ernest Leong, a teacher at

The Archdiocese launched Catholic Education Sunday last year to enhance the thrust of Catholic education in our schools. The celebration this year will see students from Catholic schools serving at Masses in parishes on Sept 8 and 9 in their uniforms. They will serve as lectors, hospitality ministers and also sing with the choirs.

A two-minute video on Catholic education in Singapore will also be screened. n christopher.khoo@catholic.org.sg

Online resources You can now get updates about events and activities happening in Catholic schools on Instagram and Facebook. Since late June, school events as well as workshops and activities organised by the Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic schools have been posted on both social media platforms (see http://schools.catholic.sg).

Information of interest and concern to Catholic parents are highlighted for timely access.

For example, relevant information on Catholic schools

was posted during the period of the Ministry of Education’s Primary One Registration Exercise.

Catholic educators can also now look forward to a monthly e-newsletter entitled Sowers@schools.catholic. sg. The Council of Catholic Schools’ Principals says they hope to stay connected with educators in the Catholic fraternity by sharing faith stories and tips for strengthening the Catholic ethos of our schools. n

12 OUR PARISH COMMUNITIES

Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

Sun

The church atop a hill in

Bukit Batok

In following the footsteps of St Francis, who is the patron saint for animals and the ecology, the Church of St Mary of the Angels is unique in its own way. JARED NG looks at the church in this series on parish communities.

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The Flo ral deco cial fea

The Church of St Mary of the Angels sits on a hill in Bukit Batok. Photos: LUMINAIRE PHOTOGRAPHY MINISTRY

On a hill in Bukit Batok is a church that the Franciscan friars in Singapore have called home for the past 60 years.

What started as a simple chapel in 1958 has today grown into a vibrant, nature-caring and evangelistic church known as the Church of St Mary of the Angels.

Following in the footsteps of St Francis of Assisi, founder of the Franciscans, the friars live and preach the Good News, serving the parishioners and the community. The church collaborates with other faith groups and secular organisations to reach out to the poor and needy living in the neighbouring Bukit Batok area.

And, in keeping with the teachings of St Francis, who is the patron saint of animals and the ecology, every first Sunday of October, the friars are on hand to bless animals with holy water in what has become an annual event of the Franciscans here.

The special event is connected to the Oct 4 feast day of St Francis of Assisi. Cats, dogs, birds, turtles, hamsters, rabbits and sometimes even fishes are among the pets at the blessing.

A noticeable feature at the church are the recycle bins and as part of its care for nature, couples getting married in the church are encouraged not to print their wedding booklets so as to save paper.

Parish priest Friar Clifford Augustine, 52, has introduced a variety of programmes and ministries that cater to people of different ages. These range from a pastoral care ministry for the sick and elderly, faith formation sessions for adults on various topics to a selection of prayer ministries.

One other key area of focus is forming children and youth in the faith, said Fr Clifford, who has served as parish priest for five years.

The children’s liturgy for Primary 1 and 2 students seek to develop in them an appreciation of the Word of God. The main objective of this is “to get children to know the person of Jesus and to have Bible knowledge” through activities such as skits, videos and stories, said Fr Clifford.

Liturgical catechetical sessions are subsequently available for

Franciscan friar Clifford Augustine (left) said the objective of the children’s liturgy is “to get children to know the person of Jesus”.

Pri 3 to Pri 6 children to further develop their understanding of the faith.

For youth attending catechism classes, the church holds community catechesis which builds on the liturgical catechetical sessions and also empowers each teen to share his or her faith within the community. Instead of regular Sunday classes, the sessions are held on Friday evenings from 7.45pm9.30pm. This is to prioritise attending Mass together as a family on Sunday, said Fr Clifford.

The youth receive the Sacra-

ment of Confirmation at the start of their third year in catechism so there is no “graduation mentality”, said Fr Clifford. Instead, after confirmation, there are follow-up programmes and sessions throughout the remainder of the year to help them grow further in their faith and to also get them involved in youth or other church ministries.

There are currently six youth ministries that fall under an overarching community known as Deus caritas est (God is Love).

They are the praise and wor-

ship ministry, junior catechists, altar servers, youth wardens, youth choir and Youth for Christ ministry.

Mr Alvin Arvind, youth coordinator of the church, said that his aim for the youth is that they not be exclusive but be “a part of and involved” with the church’s activities and communities.

One other interesting ministry within the church is the Flower Arrangement Ministry.

With about 40 members, their weekly activity consists of selecting and buying flowers, arranging the floral decorations for Masses as well as making necessary preparations for special feast days celebrated in the church.

On Mother’s Day, the ministry takes pre-orders for bouquets in the month preceding and sells loose flowers on that weekend.

Said Ms Sylvia Koh, the ministry’s coordinator, “this work we do is a way of giving back to the Church for all the blessings us members have received.” n jared.ng@catholic.org.sg

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OUR PARISH COMMUNITIES 13

Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

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A special animal blessing is held on the first Sunday of October in connection with the Oct 4 feast day of St Francis of Assisi.

The church serves up to 10,000 parishioners every weekend.

The Flower Arrangement Ministry of the church assists in arranging the floral decorations for Masses as well as making necessary preparations for special feast days.

HISTORY St Mary of the Angels Church started as a simple chapel in 1958. By 1970, the friars’ chapel had been turned into a church.

Plans were announced that the church would be extended to accommodate the growing number of parishioners.

In 1985, the church was extended a second time due to the increase of parishioners resulting from the new blocks of flats in the Bukit Batok and Bukit Gombak area.

By 1998, with the building of high-rise housing estates all around the church, the number of parishioners had tripled. Renovations were once again needed to meet the needs of parishioners and the new church was completed in September 2003. On Feb 2, 2004, then Archbishop Nicholas Chia led parishioners in dedicating the church. n

The Christmas season can be quite a spectacle at the church.

Source: http://www.stmary.sg/web/ index.php/about-us/our-history.

e minr bouceding on that

e minork we to the ngs us The old church building in the 1980s. Church file photo

The Stations of the Cross is held for children to develop their understanding of the person of Jesus.

14 JUBILARIANS

Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

Sun

TRIBUTE TO ALL JUBILAR

Let us be inspired by the unfailing commitment of our priests and Religious for faithfully li

La Salle Brother Gregory Lim

75 years

La Salle Brother Gregory Lim, 94, celebrated his 75th anniversary of his first Religious profession.

He made his first vows on Oct 7, 1943, and final vows in 1949.

Br Gregory has been an educator all his life. He came from a devout Catholic family consisting of four brothers and four sisters.

Three of his sisters joined the Religious congregations, two of whom are Canossian Sisters and one, a Little Sister of the Poor.

His formation was in St Joseph’s College, Pulau Tikus, Penang, during World War II. After the war, he was posted to Noah’s Ark, a primary school, and then to St Xavier’s Branch School for a few years before being posted to St Xavier’s Institution until 1954.

After this stint in Penang, he was transferred to St Michael’s School in Singapore for six years and later to La Salle Primary

FMM Sister Mary Ng s r a e y 60 Sixty years in Religious life – more than half a century! It seems like such a long time. However, if one lives it one day at a time walking in faith, it seems like yesterday that I entered the FMM noviciate in 1957. A year later, I made my first vows.

In 1963 I was missioned to Kuantan, in the east coast of Malaysia where I made my final commitment that same year.

Since 1963, I spent most of my Religious life serving in different parts of Malaysia becoming a permanent resident in 1965, while at the same time remaining a Singapore citizen.

In the early years in Kuantan, I was incharge of a boarding school catering to the children of estate workers in the remote areas. These children would have no access to schooling if they did not come to live in the town. I saw to the daily needs of the children, visited the families and also the families of the kindergarten children for whom the FMM congregation had set up in the estates.

For some years in Petaling Jaya, I took part in the administrative work and management board of the Assunta Hospital. Meanwhile, I also co-ran the Assunta Foster care programme which catered for the children of broken homes and single parents. They were placed in selected foster homes where they lived in a family environment and continued their schooling. I was also serving as the provincial for the FMMs in Malaysia/Singapore between 1991-1995.

In Kota Baru and Kuala Terengganu, I was involved in parish ministries, catechetics and visiting the families of Sabahan

and Sarawakian soldiers living in the army camps.

My main ministry within the FMM congregation is accounting work in communities and assisting at the provincial level. This is still my main contribution to our community.

I thank God for His constant affection and faithful love for me, giving me graces to persevere in my Religious vocation. I am ever grateful to the FMM congregation for accepting me as its member for the last 60 years and I pray to be a faithful and grateful FMM Sister until my last day. n

School in Kowloon, Hong Kong, where he later became headmaster for a few years.

He then pursued some studies in De La Salle University in Manila, Philippines, after which he returned to Hong Kong and taught in St Joseph’s College for many years. He returned to Singapore in 1969 and taught at St Joseph’s Institution (SJI) and St Patrick’s School.

He retired in 1984 but continued teaching moral instruction and Bible knowledge for several years at SJI as well as taking charge of the Legion of Mary in St Patrick’s School and at SJI. After that he volunteered to go to Japan to teach English in Kagoshima and later to Papua New Guinea to teach English to the postulants and novices there for two years. He returned to Singapore where he is currently retired at St Patrick’s Community. n

FMM Sister Rosalind Chan 60 years I just cannot thank God enough for His love and faithfulness these past 60 years.

In 1957, I was called by God to the congregation of the Franciscans Missionaries of Mary. A year later, I received my FMM habit.

In 1960, I made my first Religious vows.

That same year, I was sent to mission at Assunta Hospital, in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia.

Even though I was not a nurse, I was asked to help in different wards, even in the intensivecare units.

Later that year in December, I was sent to Australia to be trained as a registered nurse and I passed with flying colours!

The next 20 years of my mission was spent serving, in a variety of ways, in the healthcare industry.

In the 1980s, my next mission brought me to Paraguay. But first, I had to learn Spanish.

For the first time in my life, I understood what it meant to be “really speechless”. Everywhere I went and everyone I met, I could not communicate with. Thank God, my Jesus still could speak English and this was my sole consolation.

I arrived in Paraguay in 1982 and remained there until 1995. My time there saw me helping a very poor village with a population of about 2,000 Catholics who were not evangelised. We started basic Christian communities, trained catechists, youth leaders and started health programmes.

In 1996, back in Singapore, I started my mission at the Filipino Ongoing Development Programme (FILODEP).

FILODEP, started in November 1987,

aims to provide pastoral care for domestic helpers through skills training courses such as baking, cooking, dress-making, English classes, taekwondo and hairstyling.

Till today, I am still involved with this ministry and have been recently asked by the FILODEP volunteers to give first aid courses.

As I look back at all these marvellous deeds that the Lord has done for me, and through me, I want to thank Him with my whole heart and soul. Now and always, Amen. n

Please note that while effort was made to include all Jubilarins in this feature, not all celebrants avail themselves as some prefer to maintain their privacy.

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Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

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Carmelite s r a e y Sister Francisca 25

I joined a church choir at the age nine. There, I was very touched and inspired by the lyrics of the hymns.

During my teens, I enjoyed reading books including spiritual books on St Francis and St Therese but most of all I was very touched by the life of Jesus.

In 1991, I entered the Carmelite Monastery after eight years of working as a piano teacher. I made my first profession on Oct 4, 1993, and my solemn profession on Oct 4, 1996.

Cloistered life is a life of prayer in depth and in solitude, an experience of oneness with God. I find much support in community living. Knowing there is always someone there when in need but there are also challenges when we experience different ideas and opinions. These challenges help us

in knowing ourselves better and where we need to grow, change, forgive and most of all, love.

What is important for me is focusing on Jesus and keeping the presence of God in every event of

life. Together with St Paul, I like to meditate on his words in his letter to the Romans 8:38-39, “For I am certain of this: neither death nor life, nor angels, nor principalities. Nothing already in existence and nothing still to come, nor any power, nor the heights nor the depths, nor any created thing whatever, will be able to come between us and the love of God known to us in Christ Jesus our Lord.”

Offering to God every minute of my prayer and work for love of Him, for His people and the Church is fulfilling and worthwhile as every moment of my life is being used to the full.

Though I am still very far from perfection and holiness, as St Teresa of Jesus said, “The Lord does not look so much at the greatness of our works as at the love with which they are done.” n

Twenty-five years in the priestly ministry is truly a breakthrough. I not only feel good about it, I also feel the spirit of the faithful parishioners of the Church of St Michael, Church of Christ the King, St Anne’s Church and Church of the Holy Cross.

Not to forget the spirit of the simple people that I have served before as a young priest outside the Archdiocese of Singapore in such places like St Anthony Parish of Itupiranga and St Dominic of Araguaia at the Diocese of Maraba – in the province of Para in the South of Amazon, Brazil.

I thank God for the grace of being a “people’s priest” through these 25 years of service. As I come from a simple family, my own experiences of sadness and joy have really helped me to understand people’s pains and sorrows in their unfortunate situations and sufferings. I think that this has brought me close to the people that God has entrusted to me.

One of the major challenges that I place at the top of my list is the changing world and its increasing hostility towards the Word of Christ. The Word of Christ is being preached but it is being met with a lot of hostility today. Having to face that in daily life, the hostility towards Christ is a challenge for me.

I believe that people don’t take easily to the Word of God, and having been a priest and having to go through that in daily life, is really like a pilgrimage in the desert.

Mindful of the need to bolster the decreasing number of priests, I encourage other young men to join the priesthood. There is a lot of work to be done and the road can be rough, but there is great satis-

faction in serving the Lord. In this world, people look for satisfaction in different things. We sometimes look for satisfaction in material things, but I believe there is much satisfaction in the Lord, and that is the best way you can be fulfilled.

If it weren’t for the fact that I have served the Lord all these past years, I would not make such a claim.

Trust me and do give it a try! n

Scheut Missions 25 years Father Robertus Sarwiseso

FMM Sr Maria s r a e Sylvia Ng 25 y

I began my novitiate formation on March 19, 1993 in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia, and took my final vows in 2001 at the Church of the Holy Trinity. My ministry for close to 10 years was to helm Poverello Centre for youth-at-risk, mainly students from Hai Sing Catholic School.

Most of them were non-Catholic and came from disadvantaged backgrounds, of which their growing up years were more challenging than usual. Hence after the first year of grappling with the start-up of this ministry, I realised there was a need for more creative and inventive way of helping ... besides praying very hard!

One memorable ministry was a short mission stint in Liberia for two years in 2010. Liberia was still reeling from the impact of a 15year civil war as seen by damaged infrastructure all over which sadly equally applied to the Liberians as well. My daily encounters with the people, may it be teaching, sharing, meeting or simply walking in the dusty barren landscape of the street, the healing gift of a smile,

an attentive listening ear or an outstretched helping hand ... were Good News for that very moment.

In 2013, I was called to another healing ministry of anti-human trafficking in our own backyard of Singapore, where I too saw and met people who were traumatised and suffered. A gift of peace with hands clasped was sometimes all that we could give in the dark corners of the street and of course a prayer when all else was not possible.

At present, my ministry is focussed on the migrant scene with the Archdiocesan Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants & Itinerant People (ACMI) where we engage with migrants in all situations of life to hopefully enable them to live a holistic and fuller life.

It becomes a faith response to the call of the Spirit of the Good Shepherd to reach out and tend to the wounded and vulnerable.

These 25 years of my Religious life have been marked by God’s goodness and graciousness upon me and I am most thankful for His blessings. n

16 HOME

Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

Her prayers saved her from harm n From Page 1

to cultivate a deep intimacy with the Lord,” he told her. Your fellow Sisters in the community will also support you, you are not on this journey alone, he added.

When Sr Francede moved to Singapore, she had trouble adjusting to the local culture, language and food.

Although she learned English during her pre-postulancy period back in Myanmar, she still had difficulty communicating with her fellow Sisters in the Carmelite convent and this sometimes led to “misunderstandings”.

During breakfast, she was used to eating rice and initially baulked at the sight of bread. It was during these periods that she “leaned on God for perseverance and love”.

“I prayed and asked God to reveal Himself to me and I felt joy and love,” said Sr Francede, who is a cloistered nun, which means she lives within the enclosure of the monastery and follows

The Carmelite charism

Sr Francede, seen here with her parents who came from Myanmar, enjoying the cake cutting celebration.

a completely contemplative life.

Her Sisters in the community also reminded her of her purpose.

“They told me that if God is willing, you will overcome these [challenges],” she said.

Coming from a country where

most people are Buddhists, Sr Francede came to know about the Catholic faith through her family, who are Catholics.

She developed a strong prayer life and would often carry her rosary with her.

The charism of the Carmelite congregation is contemplation. What is distinctive of Carmelites is the way that they pray, live community life and serve, taking inspiration from the prophet Elijah and the Blessed Virgin Mary, patrons of the Order.

The congregation has a strong devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel. The First Order of Carmelites are the friars, the Second Order are the nuns, and the Third Order consists of laypeople who participate in the charism of the congregation by liturgical prayers, apostolates and contemplative prayer. n

Entering pre-postulancy in 2007, Sr Francede grew to love the Carmelite way of life and looked up to St Teresa of Avila, reformer of the Carmelites.

She shared that she was touched by how St Teresa saw contemplative prayer as a crucial means of reaching God, and how “He can be found in anything and everything.”

“In my life, I experienced the power of prayer when I was in difficulty and I want to pray for others who go through their

own troubles,” said Sr Francede.

In a day, Sr Francede prays the Divine Office, meditates and has other responsibilities such as counselling visitors, sewing and doing laundry.

For those thinking of joining the Religious life, she has this piece of advice: “We are all made to love and to be loved. Listen to your heart attentively and you will know that the deepest form of love is that which comes from God.” n jared.ng@catholic.org.sg

Sun

17

Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

By Jennifer Ficcaglia After he had freed the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, God wanted to make them a holy people with the help of his servant, Moses.

Moses had a very difficult job.

The people were always sinning against God by complaining, failing to follow His directions and laws, and by not trusting in Him. God eventually would become angry and punish the people for their sinfulness. The people would repent and ask Moses to pray to God for forgiveness, which God always granted.

Although God always forgave His people, He also gave them consequences for their sinful actions.

For example, a few years after being freed from slavery, God led the people to the border of Canaan, the land which God had promised them.

God had Moses send out 12 scouts to check out the land. When they came back 40 days later, 10 of the 12 scouts said that the Israelites were not strong enough to take the land from the inhabitants. The people believed them and rebelled against Moses and God. Since the people sinned by not trusting God, He made them wander in the desert for 40 years before entering the land.

Near the end of this time, the Israelites were getting worn out from the journey. They once again complained to Moses.

“Why have you brought us up from Egypt to die in this desert, where there is no food or water? We are disgusted with this wretched food!” they cried.

As a punishment for their sinfulness, God sent poisonous seraph serpents to bite the people, and many of them died.

SPOTLIGHT ON SAINTS:

St Vincent de Paul St Vincent de Paul was born in France in 1581. He began priestly formation in 1595 and was ordained in 1600.

From 1605-07 he was a slave in Tunisia after he was seized from a ship that pirates had attacked. After escaping his captors, he returned to France and worked in a parish outside of Paris.

Around 1615, he dedicated his life to serving the poor. He founded the Confraternity of Charity, the Congregation of the Mission (Vincentians) and, with St Louise de Marillac, the Daughters of Charity.

He died in 1660, and we honour him on Sept 27. n

The people realised they were sinning and begged Moses to help them.

“We have sinned in complaining against the Lord and you,” they said.

“Pray the Lord to take the serpents from us.”

Moses did, and God told him to make a bronze serpent and place it on a pole. All who had been bitten would be healed if they gazed upon the bronze serpent, God said.

Moses obeyed God, and, just as God had promised, those who were bitten and gazed upon the bronze serpent recovered. n Read more about it: Numbers 13-14 & 21

Q&A 1. Why did the Israelites wander the desert for 40 years?

2. What type of animal bit the Israelites?

Wordsearch: n TRUST n HEAL n BORDER n HELP n MAKE n CHECK n ALLOW n SEND n TUNISIA n REALISE n PROMISE n LEAD

ESSAY: Why is it important to trust in God?

Bible Accent: Answer to puzzle: 1. F; 2. T; 3. F; 4. F

PUZZLE: Using the hints provided, put a T next to the sentences that are true and an F next to the ones that are false.

1. God led the Israelites across the Sea of Galilee. (Ex 15:22) 2. Aaron and his sons were consecrated as God’s priests.

(Ex 30:30)

3. Moses’ sister, Miriam, was blind for seven days. (Nm 12:10-14) 4. Caleb was chosen to lead the people into the Promised Land.

(Dt 31:7-8)

Answer to Wordsearch

Children are very important to God, and there are many stories in the Bible where He used His people, even when they were still very young.

Isaac was born to Abraham and Sarah even though they were very old (Genesis 21).

Moses was saved from death after being found in a basket by Pharaoh’s daughter and was raised by his mother who had prayed he would live (Exodus 2).

God called Samuel, whose birth was an answer to his mother’s prayers, three times in one night until he answered, “Here I am.” (1 Samuel 3) David defeated Goliath, the giant warrior, wearing no armour, and armed only with a slingshot (1 Samuel 17).

And two of the most important stories were about Jesus: the account of His miraculous birth (Matthew 1), and when He was in the temple with the teachers (Luke 2). n

18 OPINION

Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

Fortnightly newspaper of the Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore

2 Highland Road, #01-03 Singapore 549102.

Telephone: 6858 3055. Fax: 6858 2055.

W: www.catholicnews.sg FB: www.facebook.com/catholicnews IG: catholicnews.sg EDITOR-IN-CHIEF: Sunny Wee: sunny.wee@catholic.org.sg MANAGING DIRECTOR: André Ahchak: andre.ahchak@catholic.org.sg ASSISTANT EDITOR: Christopher Khoo: christopher.khoo@catholic.org.sg STAFF CORRESPONDENT: Jared Ng: jared.ng@catholic.org.sg

EDITORIAL MATTERS AND QUERIES: cnedit@catholic.org.sg IN MEMORIAM: Racquel Castanares: memoriam@catholic.org.sg SUBSCRIPTIONS: Richard Paul: subscriptions@catholic.org.sg ADVERTISEMENTS: Elaine Ong: advertisements@catholic.org.sg DESIGN / LAYOUT: Christopher Wong: design@catholic.org.sg Elaine Ong: elaine.ong@catholic.org.sg

Please include your full name, address and phone no. for all letters to the editor.

All decisions on submissions rest with the CatholicNews. Published submissions will be edited.

The views or positions presented in articles in CatholicNews do not necessarily represent the views of the Church.

Advertisements that appear in CatholicNews are not necessarily endorsed by the Church.

Our story in the age of big data Brett Robinson I recently attended a conference in Silicon Valley hosted by Santa Clara University where we talked about what “big data” means for the Church.

We heard from a data scientist who explained that big data refers to data sets that are so large that conventional methods cannot make sense of them.

Marketers analyse everything from purchase activity on your credit card to the last webpage you looked at. When you include all of the data generated by text messaging and phone conversations, the amount of information available is staggering and a little disturbing.

Data scientists are interested in finding patterns so they can build a story around consumers that will help predict and influence their behaviour.

So what does big data have to do with the Church? Like many things technological, the theological implications are often hidden from view.

We can probably agree that certain ethical norms and privacy laws are necessary when we talk about tracking the behaviour of millions of peo-

While companies mine consumers’ information in this age of big data, God works from a “data set” that is complete and perfect, and His plans for us are much grander than what we can imagine. Photos: PIXABAY

ple. But those are legal and political concerns, not theological ones.

The theological link has to do with interpretation. What is theology if not a massive exercise in interpreting tremendous amounts of information?

From the creation of the cosmos to the sins I committed yesterday, there is a narrative thread that connects all those events: A story of perfect love squandered by pride and

BOOK NOW BY CALLING THE SCHOOL @ 6344 0929

restored again by sacrificial love.

God’s plans are so much grander than our minds can fathom. He is working from a data set that is perfect and complete. Our job is to remember the story that holds it all together. Rather than fixating on particular data points, recall the deeper connections – that all the life and death in the universe is under His merciful care.

Like a good data scientist, we are called to notice the deep connections that are intended to influence our behaviour towards the good and the true: connections between the stories and prophecies of the Old Testament, the events of the New Testament and our own daily lives; between Christ’s sacrifice on Calvary, the holy sacrifice of the Mass and the sacrifices we make each day out of love for God. While companies mine our information to get to know us better (and increase profit), our responsibility is to hold onto something more prophetic. Our story, our identity, is always and everywhere rooted in the biggest story of all, salvation from sin and death through Our Lord Jesus Christ and the Church. n CNS Robinson is director of communications and Catholic media studies at the University of Notre Dame McGrath Institute for Church Life in Indiana, USA.

Sun

You can breathe life into another with a word of praise St Thomas Aquinas once suggested that it’s a sin to not give a compliment to someone when it’s deserved because by withholding our praise we’re depriving that person of the food that he or she needs to live on. He’s right. Perhaps it’s not a sin to withhold a compliment but it’s a sad impoverishment, both for the person deserving the compliment and for the one withholding it.

We don’t live on bread alone. Jesus told us that. Our soul too needs to be fed and its food is affirmation, recognition and blessing. Praise, recognition and blessing build up the soul.

But complimenting others isn’t just important for the person receiving the compliment, it’s equally important for the person giving it. In praising someone we give him or her some needed food for their soul; but, in doing this, we also feed our own soul. There’s a truth about philanthropy that holds true too for the soul: We need to give to others not just because they need it but because we cannot be healthy unless we are giving ourselves away. Healthy admiration is a philanthropy of the soul.

Moreover, admiring and praising others is a religious act. Belgian Benedictine monk and author Benoit Standaert submits that “giving praise comes out of the roots our existence”. What does he mean by that?

In complimenting and praising others, we are tapping into what’s deepest inside us, namely, the image and likeness of God. When we praise someone else then, like God creating, we are breathing life into a person, breathing spirit into them. People need to be praised.

The image and likeness of God inside us is not an icon, but an energy, the energy that’s most real inside us. Beyond our ego, wounds, pride, sin and the pettiness of our hearts and minds on any given day, what’s most real within us is a magnanimity and graciousness which, like God, looks at the world and wants to say: “It is good! It is very good!”

But praise is not something we give out easily. Mostly we are so blocked by the disappointments and frustrations within our lives that we give in to cynicism and jealousy and operate out of these rather than out of our virtues. We rationalise this of course in different ways, either by claiming that what we’re supposed to admire is juvenile (and we’re too bright and sophisticated to be impressed) or that the admirable act was done for someone’s selfaggrandisement and we’re not going to feed another person’s ego.

However, more often than not, our real reason for withholding praise is the fact that we ourselves have been insufficiently praised and, because of that, harbour jealousies and lack the strength to praise others. I say this sympathetically, all of us are wounded.

Then too in some of us there’s a hesitation to praise others because we believe that praise might spoil the person and inflate his or her ego. Legitimate praise never spoils a person. Praise that’s honest and proper works more at humbling its recipient than spoiling him or her. We can’t be loved too much, only loved wrongly.

But, you might ask, what about children who end up selfcentred because they’re only praised and never disciplined? Real love and real maturity distinguish between praising those areas of another’s life that are praiseworthy and challenging those areas of another’s life that need correction. Praise should never be undeserved flattery, but challenge and correction are only effective if the recipient first knows that he or she is loved and properly recognised.

Genuine praise is never wrong. Refusing to admire when someone or something merits praise is, as St Thomas Aquinas submits, a negligence, a fault, a selfishness, a pettiness and a lack of maturity. Conversely, paying a compliment when one is due is a virtue and a sign of maturity. n

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STATEMENT 19

Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

Promoting a SAFE ENVIRONMENT : The Archdiocese Professional Standards Office (“PSO”) was set up in 2011 after studying the processes in Australia. This was done during the time of Archbishop Nicholas Chia. It was set up to deal with sexual abuse against children and young people.

More recently, the Vatican had instructed every Diocese to have its own office to deal with incidences of sexual abuse and harassment of minors and young people. The Catholic Church in Singapore has in place a document that promotes a safe environment, including the implementation of a protocol to receive any complaint of sexual abuse or harassment of a minor or young person.

In line with this, we have begun to put in place certain instructions and best practices for parishes to adhere to. The PSO will continue to strengthen the safe environment initiatives through training, workshops and internal communications.

Besides establishing safe environments, the PSO has a second duty of handling any complaints of sexual abuse or harassment of a child or young person. The document sets out the procedures to ensure a just treatment of all complaints in a transparent and juridical manner restoring communion for all parties concerned. Allega-

tions may be against priests, Religious, employees or volunteers in the Archdiocese.

Any allegation of sexual abuse of a minor is a serious matter and treated with utmost urgency and confidentiality. To ensure that the investigations are carried out professionally and independently and at arm’s length, the PSO strongly advises all complaints to be reported to the appropriate civil authorities. Once the matter has been reported to the civil authorities, the PSO will cease all

involvement until the results of the civil investigations are out.

Pending the outcome of the investigations, the alleged perpetrator will be suspended from duty until such time when the civil authorities have concluded their investigations and the Archbishop is notified of the results.

Where the investigation finds the case to be inconclusive or the accused is found not guilty, the

PSO

Archbishop will then make the final decision as to whether or not the person is to be returned to duty, having consulted with the relevant Church bodies.

Where the investigation finds the person guilty, and involves a member of the clergy, Rome will duly be informed. Based on the applicable provisions of Canon Law, Rome will then invoke the applicable provisions and instruct the Archbishop to execute accordingly.

In addition to this, the guilty party will be subject to sentencing according to the laws of the land.

The work of restoring communion will then begin.

It may be that the complainant, for whatever reasons or difficulties unknown to the PSO, chooses not to file a police report. Under such circumstances, the PSO, upon receiving the complaint, will convene an Inquiry Committee to look into the complaint.

The PSO would however require the complainant to declare in a Statutory Declaration that the statements and facts raised are true and accurate.

Should the complainant choose to lodge a police report midway through the inquiry, he/

she has the right to do so, in which case, the PSO Inquiry Committee will immediately cease its investigations so as not to obstruct or interfere with the operation of any relevant agency or civil authorities. It is always the preference of the PSO that civil authorities conduct investigations to avoid any bias or partiality.

For matters within its purview and scope, PSO takes up every complaint that is lodged with it.

The PSO is made up of professionals comprising Senior Counsels (law), ex-District Judges, senior lawyers and legally trained persons, psychologists and people in senior management, some of whom are not Catholics but have come forward to assist the PSO in its work. The investigations by PSO and the outcomes are confidential, including all the proceedings at any Inquiry.

At no point during the investigation does the Archdiocese or the Archbishop’s Office interfere with the investigations by the PSO Inquiry Committee or Review Committee. It is only when its findings are concluded that the PSO furnishes the Report to the Archbishop, through the Archbishop’s delegate. n

20 WHAT’S ON

Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

Sun

Compile d by Jared Ng and C hristo pher Wo ng

Sept 15

Sept 6, 13, 20, 27 and Oct 4, 11, 18, 25 Basic Catechist Course Level 1 – Introduction to Catechetical Pedagogy & Catechetical Methods Time: 7.30pm-10pm. Venue: Church of St Teresa.

This eight-session module will introduce participants to the method of catechesis as proposed by the Universal Church. The courses are recommended as the basic requirement for all catechists including home-based and special needs. For more information, W: www.catechesis.org.sg; W: https://tinyurl.com/y8joexd5; E: formation@catechesis.org.sg; T: 6911 0400.

Sept 20 to Sept 23

Understanding Our Youth: Love and Addiction Time: 2pm-4.30pm. Venue: Agape Village, 7A Lorong 8 Toa Payoh, S319264. Set in the year 2018, Project Fireworks is a performative presentation of Boys’ Town’s production “The Museum of the Unlovables”, which offers glimpses into the lives, voices and stories of youth in 2018. WE CARE Community Services will deliver a talk – “Addiction and Youth: A Singapore Context”. To register: E: agapevillage@caritas-singapore.org; T: 6801 7400.

Treasure #10 Venue: 2 Lor Low Koon, S536449. Treasure – Encounter retreat for young working adults. The Office for Young People (OYP)’s Treasure Retreat is a live-in retreat for young working adults below 35 years of age. Come to encounter the saving love of Jesus Christ, and meet others who desire to live a life of discipleship. Cost: $130 per participant. Register at http://oyp.org.sg/treasure10.

For more information, E: treasureretreat@gmail.com.

Sept 15

Sept 22

Basic Catechist Course Level 1 – Evangelisation & Mission Workshop Time: 9am-5pm. Venue: Catholic Archdiocesan Education Centre. Topics include Evangelisation in the Pedagogy of God, the Evangelisation Cycle, Proclamation of the Kerygma and Practical elements of evangelisation. Please register using the following URL: https://cms.catechesis.org.sg/civicrm/event/ info?reset=1&id=221.

For more information, E: formation@catechesis.org.sg; T: 6911 0402; W: www.catechesis.org.sg.

Celebrating Life Together Time: 10am-4pm. Venue: Agape Village, 7A Toa Payoh Lor 8, level 1, S319264. Conference for parents and caregivers of adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD). Prominent speakers will address burning topics of legal, mental health and behavioural issues, caregivers’ self-care concerns and integration and inclusivity of adults with IDD. Free admission.

Registration required via URL: https://www.eventbrite. sg/e/conference-tea-dance-registration-47700759255.

Sept 15

Connected Couples, Strong Relationships Time: 9am-6pm. Learn how you can create a deeply satisfying and long-lasting relationship with your partner.

Organised by Kingsmead Centre, 8 Victoria Park Rd. Cost: $180 per couple. To register: W: http://tinyurl.com/couples18; T: 6467 6072.

Movie Screening Time: 3:30pm-5:30 pm. Movie screening of Summer in the Forest at Vivo City Golden Village Cinema. This movie follows Jean Vanier and l’Arche, a residential community home for men and women with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) worldwide.

Book tickets at www.canafilmfest.com.

Sept 15 New Wine Conference 2018 Time: 9.30am-4.30pm. Venue: SJI International, 490 Thomson Road. Come and discover what it means to be called to holiness in today’s world.

Speakers at the conference include Msgr Ambrose Vaz, Fr Ignatius Yeo and Fr Luke Fong. Conference is for PPC and its EXCO, Ministry leaders and members and Small Christian Communities. Organised by Office for the New Evangelisation.

To register: W: www.one.org.sg/events; T: 6911 0420.

Sept 22

Sept 23 Celebrating Life – Tea Dance Time: 2pm-5pm. Venue: Agape Village, 7A Toa Payoh Lor 8, level 1, S319264. Mamre Oaks’ first ever tea dance party for adults with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD), to show what they do best, and that’s to have fun, dance and sing. Free admission to all adults with IDD, with one accompanying parent or caregiver.

Registration required via URL: https://www.eventbrite. sg/e/conference-tea-dance-registration-47700759255.

For more information, T: 6801 7476.

Oct 15 My Journey Series Talk Time: 7:30-9pm. Venue: Catholic Centre Level 3, 55 Waterloo St. Catholic Business Network presents an evening of Christian fellowship and sharing by Mr Ooi Boon Hoe, CEO of Jurong Port. He will speak on his personal and corporate life journey; his perspective and approach to balance faith, family and a successful career as a shepherd in the marketplace. FOC. A light dinner will be provided.

To register: E: celine@cbn.sg; T: 9858 4782.

Oct 17

Sept 12 to Oct 17 Basic Catechist Course Level 2 – Catholic Social Teachings Every Wednesday from 7.30pm-10pm. This course aims to facilitate catechists in their understanding and practice of what it means to uphold their Catholic identity as agents for love, peace and justice. For more information, W: www.catechesis.org.sg.

Sept 15, 22 and 29 Clarity’s Youth Workshop – SPACEBAH Time: 3pm-5pm. Venue: Agape Village, 7A Lor 8 Toa Payoh, S319264. Do you find it hard to fall asleep or find yourself waking up several times throughout the night?

Do you experience irritability, low mood levels and difficulty focusing during the day? Our new workshops aim to help youth with mental health needs improve their sleep quality and make lasting changes to their sleeping habits. FOC. To register: T: 6757 7990.

Meditations & Psychological Components of the Spiritual Exercises – Part 1 Time: 7.30pm-9.30pm. Venue: Kingsmead Centre, 8 Victoria Park Rd. This talk focuses on the principle and foundation and the call of the king meditations, as found in the spiritual exercises of St Ignatius of Loyola.

These meditations will be illuminated with psychological research findings. Facilitator: Fr Jerry Cusumano, SJ. Organised by Kingsmead Centre. Cost: $50.

To register: W: http://tinyurl.com/jcsj18; T: 6467 6072.

Oct 18 Meditations & Psychological Components of the Spiritual Exercises – Part 2 Time: 7.30pm-9.30pm. Venue: Kingsmead Centre, 8 Victoria Park Rd. This talk focuses on the three classes of men and contemplation to attain love meditations, as found in the spiritual exercises of St Ignatius of Loyola.

These meditations will be illuminated with psychological research findings. Facilitator: Fr Jerry Cusumano, SJ. Organised by Kingsmead Centre. Cost: $50.

To register: W: http://tinyurl.com/jcsj18; T: 6467 6072.

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SG, Br John Albert, SG. Cost: $130 (twin/sharing).

For more information, E: enquiries@montfortcentre.org; T: 6769 5711.

er

Nov 8 Annual PIETA Memorial Mass Time: 8pm. Venue: Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, A, Queen Street, S188533. We will be holding a Mass for all children who have died (including unborn children).

The Mass will be celebrated by Msgr Philip Heng, SJ. If you would like to include the name of your child in this Mass, please email us before Oct 21 with your name, contact details and your child’s name.

For more information, E: pieta.singapore@gmail.com; W: www.facebook.com/PietaSingapore/.

0

Nov 10 commencing Maryvale Certificate in Catechesis (MCC) This is a two-year, part-time, distance-learning course for those interested to develop his or her faith.

It includes practical aspects of catechesis, as well as a solid foundation in key areas of theology and spirituality. Organiser: Office For Catechesis.

E: actp@catechesis.org.sg (Jane).

Nov 17

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Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

St Patrick’s School 85th Anniversary Dinner Time: 7.15pm. Venue: Fairmont Hotel. All alumni are invited to join us for this celebration and fellowship.

Tickets are available at the school office.

T: 6344 0929 (school hours). Per head: $150.

Per table: $1,380. Extra costs apply for specially requested halal food.

Oct 19 to 21 A Scriptural Journey through the Spiritual Exercises Oct 19 (7.30pm)-Oct 21 (4.30pm). Venue: Kingsmead Centre, 8 Victoria Park Rd. In this retreat, participants will reflect on some major themes found in the spiritual exercises of St Ignatius of Loyola, from the graced history, to getting to know Jesus more intimately in our everyday life. Facilitator: Fr Jerry Cusumano, SJ. Organised by Kingsmead Centre. Fee: $270 (non-AC), $330 (AC). To register: W: http://tinyurl.com/jcsj18; T: 6467 6072.

Oct 26 to Oct 28 Montfortian Experience Retreat (MX6) – Christian Discipleship Time: 6:30pm (Fri)-1:30pm (Sun). Venue: Montfort Centre.

A Christian disciple is a person free with the freedom that comes from God, detached from everything and devoid of self-interest. Animator: Br Dominic Yeo-Koh,

Dec 1 to Dec 7 Family Mission Trip 2018 Venue: Tagaytay, Philippines (60km south of Manila).

Want an unforgetable and meaningful family vacation?

Cost (estimated): Adult (12 yrs and above) $800. Child (7-11 y/o) $750. Cost includes airfare, accommodation twin-share, full board, local transfers and transport.

Registration is now open on a first-come-first-served basis.

For more details or enquiries, W: http://verbumdeisingapore.org; T: 9689 0919 (Diana Ho).

Dec 8 Catholic Business Network (CBN) Christmas Dinner Time: 6:30pm-10:30pm. Venue: Hotel Jen Tanglin.

A Christmas fundraising dinner for CBN project “Bursaries for Needy Students” and other events.

Table costs: $5,000 (VIP), $3,000 (regular), $300 (per head for regular table). Emcee: Bernard Lim. For more information, E: celine@cbn.sg; T: 9858 4782.

WHAT’S ON 21

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.sg/events/announcementadvertisement-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.

22 IN MEMORIAM Fourth Anniversary In loving memory of

ANNIE JULIET PINTO Departed: Sept 1, 2014 In our hearts you will always live Your love, your voice and your smile Are forever imprinted in our minds.

Dearly missed and fondly remembered by beloved children, grandchildren, greatgrandchildren and nieces and nephews.

Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

Twenty-fourth Anniversary In loving memory of

Tenth Anniversary In loving memory of

Ninth Anniversary In loving memory of

K. S. JOSEPH Departed: Sep 13, 1994 Time takes away the edge of grief But memory turns back every leaf Gone from our lives one so dear But in our hearts forever near.

Always remembered by children and loved ones.

JAMES A. BROWN Departed: Sep 9, 2008 Walled in our hearts There’s a garden Where memories bloom everyday, In the rainbow colours of happiness.

Please Lord, forever let him stay.

Deeply loved and missed by wife, children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

SHARON WONG JENNIFER MEI LING BRANSON Born: Sep 25, 1974 NEE HENDRIK Departed: Sep 12, 1988 Departed: Sep 17, 2009 The blessed We miss you memories we have in so many ways Of her we’ll We miss things always cherish, you used to say And count them And when old times tenderly each day we do recall Lest for lack of love It’s then we miss you we perish. most of all.

Always remembered Deeply missed by and cherished by loved ones. brother, sister-in-law and loved ones.

SECOND ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of

Eleventh Anniversary In loving memory of

JEROME ANTHONY THIO SOON HEAN Departed: Sep 12, 2016

This is how you are best remembered.. miss you Romey but will patiently wait for the joyous day when we each join you #foreverfamily #missuoredy Mum and Dad, Jon and Marie, Jus, Joel, Marie, Michelle, Natey and Sonia

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Quickly and quietly came the call, Your sudden departure shocked us all.

We who have lost can tell, the loss of our loved one.

With a farewell, we still do grieve, though days have gone by, that you parted from us without a goodbye.

MARINA Deeply missed & BERNARD fondly remembered by Departed: Sep 14, 2017 siblings and loved ones.

In memoriam rates Minimum $80 for an insertion not exceeding an eight-centimetre column. Additional space: $8 per one-centimetre column.

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Solution to Crossword Puzzle No. 1217

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ACROSS 1 Five virgins in Matthew 25 5 Equips 9 Poor actors 13 Mountain goat 14 “…and they shall ____ their swords into plowshares” (Isa 2:4) 15 Spine-tingling 16 Screenwriter Ephron 17 Teen scourge 18 These fell in Jericho

19 Score 20 Melt 21 Call forth 22 Parodies 24 Not at attention 25 Holy 27 Mount from which Moses saw Canaan 31 Toward the stern 34 “_____ against the dying of the light” 35 “See, I am sending you out like lambs into the midst of _____.” (Lk 10:3)

37 Section in the Bible 39 Bedtime recitations 40 Attack with severe criticism 41 The Dead and the Red 42 Cell “messenger” 43 Architect Saarinen 44 “_____ lizards!”

46 Applauds 48 Paul’s companion during his missionary travels 52 Anorak

55 Biblical name for Syria 57 Cite of the first miracle 58 Letter by which a priest is released from one diocese and accepted into another 59 Not mad 60 Opposite or absence of good 61 Snow conveyances 62 Major and bar ender

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In ever loving memory of

Twenty-fourth Anniversary In loving memory of

37th Anniversary In loving memory of

RICHARD GOMEZ Who was called to the Lord on Sep 20, 2011 You brought joy and laughter To all who knew you.

You gave hope to anyone in need.

You brightened our lives Even in the darkest times, And now in God’s heavenly light May you abide.

Remembered with love and deeply missed by all the family.

PHILOMENA PNG SEOK CHOO Departed: Sep 14, 1981 “I am the Resurrection and the Life.

Whoever believes in me will never die.”

John 11:25 Dearly loved and remembered by your loved ones.

Twentieth Anniversary 29 Capital of In loving memory of Switzerland 30 Tasmanian peak 31 Where the altar is located 32 “By the sweat of MAGDALENE your ___ you shall TAN LEE HOON eat bread” (Gen Departed: Sep 11, 1994 3:19) 33 Former Russian Dearest ruler Mummy/Mama, 35 Enclose in paper Rest in the peace PAUL CHER 36 Abraham was of the Lord.

TZE MONG probably glad Take comfort in the Departed: Sep 10, 1998 to see this in the presence of the desert Holy Spirit and we Gone from our lives 38 Jail will rejoice when One so dear we see you again.

39 Country persons But in our hearts We love you and 41 Notched Forever near. will always miss you. Always remembered by 44 Hired 45 ___ Creed Fondly remembered your wife, Sam Moye, 47 ___ off to you! by all loved ones. your children 49 First bishop of and grandchildren.

Canada 50 Jungian term In loving memory of 51 Melchizedek’s our beloved parents domain (Gen 14:18) First Eleventh 52 Nuisance Anniversary Anniversary 53 Wheel shaft 54 Go for a spin?

56 They will inherit the earth

63 “…hallowed be thy ___.”

64 Cast leader?

65 School spot 66 Shem’s eldest son

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31

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Gone but never forgotten.

JESPINE JOOSA Departed: Sep 12,1993 Her smiling way and pleasant face Are pleasures to recall; She had a kind word.

Loved by all.

Some day we hope to meet her, we know not when, To clasp her hand in the better land, Never to part again.

Cherished and fondly loved by family and loved ones.

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EDDIE TAN SIN ENG Departed: Sept 9, 2017 A light from home has gone The voice we loved to hear is stilled Gone is your face we so dearly loved Leaving a vacuum in our home Never shall your memory fade Sweet thoughts of you will always remain.

Deeply missed and fondly remembered by loved ones.

ARPUTHAM DANIEL JACOBS (A.D. JACOBS) Called home 50 years ago on September 13, 1968

DOWN 1 “I will raise you up on eagle’s ___…”

2 Apple variety 3 Caravansary 4 Praises 5 Blind as ___ 6 Energize again 7 Plant-eating aquatic mammal 8 Like some tomatoes 9 ___ being 10 Guthrie who converted to Catholicism 11 Land of ___ and honey 12 Mobutu ___ Seko 15 Female sheep 23 Wife of Abraham 26 Catholic Oscarwinning actor of “Leaving Las Vegas” fame 28 Mary, ___-Virgin

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Crossword Puzzle 1218 1

First Anniversary In loving memory of

In loving memory of Dearest Papa

Twenty-fifth Anniversary In loving memory of

CHERIYAN RACHAEL (Mrs Rachel Rockey) Departed: Sep 13, 2007 In our hearts, You will always live.

Your love, your voice and your smile are forever imprinted in our minds.

The Rockey Family Memorial Mass will be held at 6.15pm, Thursday Sept 13, 2018 at Church of the Holy Family.

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven..”

Thirtieth Anniversary In loving memory of

Sun

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N E E D I L E E S H I T A G C H I E G Y N O O D A G A T A

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C R E D E C E D O N P Y E F H O H U B A N S P T P F E A N D

L O L A

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VAWA V FRANKLIN FERNANDEZ FERNANDEZ Departed:

Sept 13, 2017 Nov 22, 2007.

I have fought the good fight.

I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.

Deeply missed and remembered by sons and spouses, grandchildren, relatives and friends.

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In loving memory of our beloved parents Eighteenth/Twenty-fifth Anniversary

JOSEPH & COLLETTE NATHAN Departed: May 21, 2000 Sep 19, 1993

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.

Always remembered by your children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and all loved ones.

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Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

Twelfth Anniversary In loving memory of

Second Anniversary In loving memory of

VIVIEN HO YEE MEE Departed: Sep 8, 2006 Treasured memories hold you near Silent thought bring many a tear Tears in my eyes I can wipe away But the love in heart will always stay.

Always remembered by hubby and loved ones.

Twenty-third Anniversary In loving memory of

Twenty-first Anniversary In loving memory of AUSTIN WOODREW KESSLER Departed: Sept 12, 1995 We’re assured of your love Even though we’re apart ‘Cause so much we’ve shared Is written in our hearts.

Deeply missed by your loving wife Elizabeth (Girlie), children and grandchildren.

OW KIM TEE Departed: Sep 16, 1997 Always remembered by loved ones.

Sixth Anniversary In loving memory of

First Anniversary In loving memory of

GLADYS LIM – SEOW GEOK KEE Departed: Sep 20, 2017 Our Lord Jesus knew what was best He took you home for eternal rest We wiped our tears and tried not to be sad and remember the precious times we had.

Always remembered by husband Lawrence, children and grandchildren.

First Anniversary In loving memory of

D’CRUZ PETHOLIA RAMAJI who was called home to the Lord on Sept 6, 2012 Dearest mother We remember and cherish the happy times together Remembering them today and forever.

Always remembered and missed by family and loved ones.

Dr Lorraine Lim Boon Fang Departed: 13th September 2017

Dearly missed and always cherished by family and loved ones.

ELEVENTH ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of

In loving memory of our beloved parents

ANTHONY NALPON Called home to be with the Lord on Sep 12, 2007 In our hearts you will always live.

Your love, your voice and your smile are forever imprinted in our minds.

Deeply missed and lovingly remembered by beloved wife, brother, children, grandchildren, great-grandchildren and loved ones.

Mass will be celebrated at Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary on Sunday Sep 9, 2018 at 5.45pm

Fifty-second Anniversary

Ninth Anniversary

DAVID ALSTON MARGARET

BATES BATES Born:

May 25, 1911 July 4, 1923.

Departed:

Oct 7, 1966 Sept 8, 2009.

Time takes away the edge of grief But memory turns back every leaf Gone from our lives one so dear But in our hearts forever near.

Deeply missed and remembered by all loved ones.

THERESA VIVIAN PESTANA Departed: Sep 4, 2016 If in one fleeting moment we could hear your voice and see you smile We’d give up everything we have So we could hold your hand, sit with you and talk for a while We all love you and miss you so very much and we will always love you our whole lives through.

In our hearts your memory lingers, Sweetly tender, fond and true, There is not a day, dear Mummy (Mama), That we do not think of you.

Dearly missed and always remembered by your children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren.

IN MEMORIAM 23

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Sunday September 16, 2018 n CatholicNews

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