Catholic News Issue 20 2018 by CatholicNews

A publication of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore SUNDAY SEPTEMBER 30, 2018

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The Church wants

HEALING FORGIVENESS RECONCILIATION Jared Ng

The Church has gone through ups and downs, yet it still stands. In a world that is becoming more difficult to live in, look to the cross as the symbol of divine mercy for all humanity. When you do so, there will be love instead of sin, said Archbishop William Goh. Speaking during the feast of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, Archbishop Goh condemned the clerical sex abuse scandals that have hit the Church in other parts of the world and which have brought “tremendous shame and confusion”. He had called for this special Mass to pray for the healing and purification of the Church. The evening Mass, held at the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd on Sept 14, had a sombre mood with many faithful seen deep in prayer and reflection while others were in tears. “Church leaders have failed to live up to their fidelity and have harmed the innocent,” he said. “These scandals have not only affected the abuse victims but innocent priests and laypeople as well,” he added. Nevertheless, he urged for Christian justice to prevail so that there may be “strength,

hope and healing grace”. Christian justice is when you forgive those who hurt and heal those who are hurt, he said. Quoting Mahatma Gandhi when he said, “An eye for an eye makes the whole world blind,” Archbishop Goh added that “evil cannot be overcome by evil.” “This is why the Church says ‘no’ to the death penalty. The Church wants healing, forgiveness and reconciliation,” he said. However, Archbishop Goh made it clear that this in no way excused the hurts caused by offenders. “Christian justice also demands that the offender is prevented from causing more harm, to stop evil.” To help offenders in their rehabilitation, prisons cannot be a place of punishment but a place of reflection and growth, he said. After Mass, there was adoration of the Blessed Sacrament until midnight. The Cathedral remained packed throughout as prayers were offered for the reparation of sins and included the Divine Mercy Chaplet, Litany of the Sacred Heart, Sorrowful Mysteries of the Rosary and guided reflections by rector Msgr Philip Heng. jared.ng@catholic.org.sg

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INSIDE “No silo saints” Conference stresses growing in holiness together n Page 2

Serving the needy MC nuns to work at St Theresa’s Home n Page 6

Starting them young Kindergarten kids reach out to elderly n Page 10

Our social service organisations A look at the St Vincent de Paul Society n Pages 12-13

Understanding addictions among youth Agape Village holds talk n Page 14

God’s daily miracles Above: Archbishop William Goh: “Evil cannot be overcome by evil.” Photos: VITA Images Right:

The faithful praying during Holy Hour after Mass.

Msgr Heng on growing in faith n Page 18

2 HOME

Sunday September 30, 2018 n CatholicNews

Growing in holiness as a community

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A panel discussion and a mini-talk show were among the highlights of the New Wine Conference Christopher Khoo How can Catholics grow in holiness both individually and as a community? This was the main question tackled during the New Wine Conference held at SJI International on Sept 15, which had the theme, No Silo Saints. The takeaway for participants, who are members of various Church groups, is that they should learn to work and pray together, not just within their group, but also as part of a larger Church community to build up the Archdiocese. Participants were also provided with a Communal Prayer Toolkit to share with their own groups. The event, organised by the Office for the New Evangelisation, was the third in an annual series aiming to help parishes move towards the Archdiocesan pastoral vision of being a vibrant, evangelistic and missionary Church. Fr Terence Pereira, in his opening address, noted that for years, the Catholic Church in Singapore has focused on individual ministry activities to the extent that people from different groups are not used to uniting and collaborating with one another. He also noted that in instances where Church groups are disunited and fighting among themselves, it is pointless to evangelise and bring people to the Church. “In all the things that we do, we must see how we are getting closer to the Lord, how are we building the kingdom of God,” said the Episcopal Vicar for the New Evangelisation. “We are re-

Panel discussion on the topic No Silo Saints. Panellists (from left) Dr Philip Yap, Mr Nick Jarvis Tan, Ms Jocelyn Loong, Ms Sherlyn Khong and Mr Eric Lam (moderator).

sponsible for one another, to grow in holiness.” About 350 members of Parish Pastoral Councils, their executive committees, Small Christian Communities and ministries attended the conference, which saw speakers and panellists sharing on the topic. Msgr Ambrose Vaz elaborated further on the theme of unity in his talk, “Unity: the first step to maturity in Christ” (Ephesians 4:1-16). “Unity is oneness in mind and heart, and the result of an intentional choice,” he said, adding that this is possible through the help of the Holy Spirit, “who is the Spirit of Unity”. Unity of relationships is characterised by qualities such as humility, gentleness, kindness and patience, said Msgr Vaz.

CHANCERY NOTICE

17 September 2018

BANNS OF ORDINATION The following candidate Deacon Gabriel Wong Feixiang will be called to the Order of the Presbyterate on 1 January 2019 at Church of St Bernadette by His Grace, Archbishop William Goh DD. The publication of these banns

CHN/BNN/2018/002

fulfil the canonical requirement, can. 1051 2°. Catholics are obliged to reveal any impediments or circumstances that would prevent Deacon Gabriel Wong from receiving Sacred Orders and should contact the Parish Priest or Archbishop William Goh DD with such information as soon as possible. n

Fr John-Paul Tan, OFM, JCL, Chancellor Chancery of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore #07-01 Catholic Centre, 55 Waterloo Street, Singapore 187954 Email: chancery@catholic.org.sg

Fr Ignatius Yeo gave an overview of Gaudete Et Exsultate, Pope Francis’ apostolic exhortation on “the call to holiness in today’s world”, published in April this year. Fr Ignatius noted that the document reminds Catholics that they can and should aspire to become saints, and highlighted several key points. These include learning from ordinary people, whom the Pope calls the “saints next door”, such as the woman who listens to others with patience, who cares for her children and who prays in the face of problems. A panel discussion followed in which five Catholics from various walks of life shared on the joys and challenges of growing in holiness. One of them, Ms Sherlyn Khong, a founder member of missionary group acts29, shared that for her, holiness is committing to being in a community and staying in it even when times get tough. Mr Nick Jarvis Tan, a Catholic motivational speaker, said that for him, “holiness is allowing God to love the people around me through the products and services that I offer”. In a talk show-like segment, Fr Luke Fong and Ms Adel Lim, a parishioner of Our Lady Star of the Sea, discussed the topic, An enemy of holiness. Enemies of holiness include laziness, egotism and selfishness, said Ms Lim, adding that a “lack of humility in many people who serve in ministry” is also an obstacle. Fr Luke reminded the crowd that “any good that we do in life doesn’t start from us. The first move is always God’s.” Participants also broke into

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Fr Luke Fong and Ms Adel Lim in a talk-show segment.

“In all the things that we do, we must see how we are getting closer to the Lord, how are we building the kingdom of God.” – Fr Terence Pereira

groups to discuss the challenges of being in community, and also experienced communal prayer by reflecting and sharing on a Gospel passage. A video on what it means to be in communion and unity in the Church was also screened. Ms Noreen Yong, who attended the conference for the first time, told Catholic News she learnt much from it. The Holy Trinity parishioner acknowledged that sometimes

disagreements arise in ministries, but “we must be united in common prayer and have to understand and love each other”. The first New Wine conference, held in 2016, focused on building communion through a spirit of thanksgiving and welcome in parishes. The second focused on the challenges and strategies for building communion. n christopher.khoo@catholic.org.sg

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Sunday September 30, 2018  CatholicNews

WITNESSING CHRIST IN MY LIFE

Cecil Peters, a lay Catholic, shares why she recently committed herself to witness for Christ.

In the past, I used to cringe whenever I heard a homily or a message on witnessing for Christ. I even took slight comfort in knowing that I was not alone. I believe many Catholics also have similar feelings. However, I asked myself, “What is making me cringe?” For me, at least, I think it is because I feel like I do not know enough about the faith to bear witness. When challenged with questions about the Catholic faith, I must admit that there are times I do not have the answer. I began reﬂecting on what faith knowledge I must acquire to be a witness of Christ when I was inspired by the Holy Spirit to read the story of the Widow’s Mite: “He sat down opposite the treasury and watched the people putting money into the treasury, and many of the rich put in a great deal. A poor widow came and put in two small coins, the equivalent of a penny. Then he called to his disciples and said to them, “In truth I tell you, this poor widow has put more in, than all who have contributed to the treasury; for they have all put in money they could spare, but she in her poverty has put in everything she possessed, all she had to live on.” (Mark 12:41-44) There are three key lessons I learned from this passage.

GOD WATCHES The ﬁrst of which is that God sees everything I do. He sees my intentions, motivations, and efforts at witnessing. I sometimes beat myself down for failing to witness or for not making enough effort to do so.

However, I have come to realise that any seed I sow, whether in the form of a kind word, act or thought, is a seed planted in faith. Witnessing to others and expecting instant results, is setting myself up for failure. The germination of the seed in faith formation takes time and one may not have the chance to see the fruit of one’s labour. I am also reminded “that neither the one who plants nor the one who waters is anything, but only God, who makes things grow.” (Corinthians 3:17) In witnessing Christ, I learned that I needed to trust in the Holy Spirit to work his miracles on the people of God, in his own time.

NO ACT TOO SMALL The next lesson for me is the persona of the poor widow. In today’s context, my interpretation is that she would represent the marginalised of our society; the poor, the unemployed and the orphaned. How often, do we gloss over the marginalised, and the ‘have-nots’ in our society as we perceive them as just receivers from those who ‘have’? Yet, she touched the heart of God, and the Lord raised her status to one from whom the apostles could learn. Here, Jesus teaches me a valuable lesson, which is that any kind word or deed, no matter how small, would not escape the eyes of God. Thus, I am called to witness with conﬁdence and courage.

FAITH IN ACTION “She gave all she had to live on” - Witnessing is faith in action, trusting God to not only meet our needs but also to allow God to touch others through us. The more I placed my trust in God, the more I was surrounded by an indescribable peace. It is the kind of peace a child may discover, as when Jesus said, “Let the little children come to me; do not stop them; for it is to such as these that the kingdom of God belongs.” (Mark 10:13) Witnessing for Christ became easier after I experienced a personal conversion. Ten years ago, I would not dare to witness for Christ. It took my personal conversion, a process in which I had to confront my internal ‘demons’ and bring them before the Lord before I could take the first step. I had to look at what separated me from God and ask hard questions like, “Why me, God? Why did this have to happen?” and allow God to heal me. The healing process helped open the door of my heart so that Jesus could come in and show me the way I should live my life. In retrospect, it is difﬁcult to pinpoint how it all started, sufﬁce to say that I took baby steps. Following my conversion 3 years ago, I began to consciously ask myself “What would Jesus want

once i started putting him at the centre of my life and began living my life his way, i grew stronger in my faith formation.

me to do in this or that situation? Would what I am going to do please the Lord?” Once I started putting Him at the centre of my life and began living my life His way, I grew stronger in my faith formation.

WORK IN PROGRESS Meeting the Lord, almost daily in personal prayer, continues to build me up and I joyfully celebrate in his plan for me. That said, I am always mindful that I am still a work-in-progress, and I should still expect disappointments from time to time. To build up confidence, I started practising witnessing in my family. I began setting an example to say Grace before family meals, sharing Gospel reflections with family members after Mass, and giving words of encouragement to my loved ones about the unconditional love of God (especially when they are in difficult situations). In this way, I learn to grow in faith and deepen my relationship with the Heavenly Father. I began to see the Holy Spirit’s power transforming me as a witness to God’s love. In whatever task I do, whether I am at work or home, or with the community, I am called to not only do them with love and reverence for God, but also to bring Jesus to others and to testify to the redemptive sacrifice He paid for our salvation. May the Holy Spirit continue his marvellous work in transforming us for the glory of God and the salvation of souls.

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

Sunday September 30, 2018 n CatholicNews

Dear brothers and sisters in the Lord, There is much debate today, even among Catholics, as to whether Singapore should repeal S377A of the Penal Code. Some feel the law should be retained to avoid normalising same-sex relationships. Others want it repealed in the name of human rights. Empathising with persons with same-sex attraction (SSA), they feel that the state discriminates against gay males by criminalising their sexual activity, while simultaneously permitting the sexual improprieties of opposite-sex couples, such as pre-marital sex and adultery. This pastoral letter seeks to enlighten our Catholics on how to make an informed and prudent judgment on this matter. From the outset, it has to be clarified that the Church regards everyone, regardless of sexual orientation, with equal respect. All of us are worthy of God’s love and mercy. The Church feels for, and empathises with, those who are struggling with homosexual inclination. She sees them with the eyes of Jesus, i.e., as people who are unique and of infinite worth, and especially loved by God as His children and heirs to eternal life. The Church, therefore, does not discriminate against the homosexual person. This does not mean, however, that the Church condones homosexual acts. GOD’S PLAN FOR HUMAN SEXUALITY To help us form our judgement prudently on this matter, we should first understand God’s Plan for human sexuality. Sexuality takes into account the entire makeup of the person as a male or female. It is a fundamental component of the person that expresses the call to love as God loves, in the complementarity and totality of the gift of a person, in all his masculinity and all her femininity (cf. The Truth and Meaning of Human Sexuality, 10). According to the Catechism of the

Catholic Church (CCC), “Sexuality is ordered to the conjugal love of man and woman.” (CCC #2360). Any action that diverts sexuality away from this end to which it is ordered is, thus, disordered. “Sexuality, by means of which man and woman give themselves to one another through the acts which are proper and exclusive to spouses, is not something simply biological, but concerns the innermost being of the human person as such.” (CCC #2361) The Church considers the union of man and woman part of the order of creation. “‘The intimate community of life and love which constitutes the married state has been established by the Creator and endowed by him with its own proper laws… God himself is the author of marriage.’ The vocation to marriage is written in the very nature of man and woman as they came from the hand of the Creator. Marriage is not a purely human institution. ‘The well-being of the individual person and of both human and Christian society is closely bound up with the healthy state of conjugal and family life.’” (CCC #1603) True married love and the whole structure of family life which results from it are ordered for the greater good of humanity. In this sense, the fundamental task of marriage and family is to be at the “service of life” (CCC #1653), and for the common good of society. All persons, whether married or single, and including persons with SSA, are called to share in God’s goodness and love by living in a chaste and authentic manner according to their state in life, so as to grow in relationship with God and others. To help us further form our judgement on this matter, this issue (of 377A) should be seen from the perspectives of moral law and civil law. THE MORAL LAW PERSPECTIVE The Sacred Tradition of the Church has constantly taught that homosexual

acts are “contrary to the natural law. They close the sexual act to the gift of life. They do not proceed from a genuine affective and sexual complementarity. Under no circumstances can they be approved” (CCC #2357). There is indeed a distinction between homosexual acts and the homosexual person. It is only the former that violates the teaching of Scripture. The Church clearly teaches that a homosexual person or persons with SSA “must be accepted with respect, compassion, and sensitivity. Every sign of unjust discrimination in their regard should be avoided. These persons are called to fulfil God’s will in their lives and, if they are Christians, to unite to the sacrifice of the Lord’s Cross the difficulties they may encounter from their condition.” (CCC #2358) From Scripture, St Paul gives his views on homosexuality (cf. Romans 1:26f, 1 Tim 1:9f). To the Corinthians, St Paul said, “Do you not know that wrongdoers will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived! Fornicators, idolaters, adulterers, male prostitutes, sodomites, thieves, the greedy, drunkards, revilers, robbers - none of these will inherit the kingdom of God.” (1 Cor 6:9f) Here St Paul clearly admonishes all, heterosexuals and homosexuals alike, who do not observe propriety in sexual and moral matters. THE CIVIL LAW PERSPECTIVE From this perspective, the Church acknowledges that the decision on S377A should come from Parliament. Nevertheless, on moral issues, the Church seeks dialogue and offers her views on the implications of the laws that are enacted in the country so that Parliament can make wise and just laws for the good of all. As to whether the law should be repealed, the principle underlying all laws is that the laws enacted must be for the common good on grounds of truth and justice, respecting human dignity and human rights. Laws should

not be enacted simply on the basis of current or popular opinion but must be rooted in Truth and the common good. Consequently, Catholics, as individuals and responsible citizens, have an important role to play in voicing their views to the government. We have a duty to speak out and be engaged in the public and social sphere to bring about the common good, which is the sum total of social conditions that promote the flourishing of individuals, family and society. We cannot be silent on issues that affect the lives of all in society and the well-being of society, today and in the future. Silence is often misinterpreted as consent. DISCERNING PRINCIPLES Having presented God’s Plan for human sexuality, marriage and family; and having considered the moral and civil law perspectives, as your Bishop, I invite you to consider the following in making a prudential judgement on S377A of Singapore’s Penal Code. On the Principle of Human Rights Is it true that this law deprives homosexuals of their rights and freedom? Are they in fact prosecuted when they engage in sexual activity in private? What is the underlying intent

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Sunday September 30, 2018 n CatholicNews

Indeed, I would not object to a repeal of S377A if it were merely aimed at removing all potential criminal penalties against homosexuals. However, until and unless Parliament puts in place a formulation that more perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the law, guaranteeing the protection of the rights of the majority who favour the traditional family, and that no further demands be made to legalise same-sex unions, adoption of babies by same-sex couples, surrogacy, or to criminalise those who do not support the homosexual lifestyle, I am of the view that S377A should not be repealed under the present circumstances. This is because, by accepting homosexual acts as a social norm, the dreadful consequences for the stability of our families, the well-being of our children, and the risks to the common good will be long-term and irreversible.

of the law? Is it not to underscore that the norm for our society is marriage between a man and a woman, in order to preserve the stability of marriage and the family and society? Does this law deprive homosexuals of their personal rights, or will the repeal of the law discriminate against the majority who holds the opposite view? Is the preservation of this law necessary to prevent a further weakening of the institution of marriage and the stability of our families, which is the bedrock of society? On the Principle of the Common Good: Implications for the Church and its Faithful Will repealing the law help to promote the flourishing of individuals, family and society according to God’s Plan? Or will it embolden activists to push further for the normalisation of same-sex relationships, such as legislation to permit same-sex marriage and the adoption of children by same-sex couples? Will the repeal of this law lead to the subjugation of the rights of Catholics to exercise their faith values, and force them to accept homosexual values and lifestyles in their homes, schools, faith communities, work places and places of worship?

Will the removal of this law subject the Church and her faithful to legal and political challenges for speaking out against same-sex unions, or for refusing to offer services to same-sex couples which go against our faith beliefs? Will the Church be forced to accept the promotion of homosexual values and lifestyles in our schools, let transgender persons use bathrooms for those of the opposite sex, and so on, as has happened in other countries? ARCHBISHOP’S PASTORAL POSITION AND APPEAL Having gone through with you the moral, social and legal implications of upholding or repealing S377A, it is natural that the faithful expect their Chief Shepherd to lead the Church on this issue. In fact, I have received many appeals from both camps to support their position. It is a delicate dilemma for any leader to have to negotiate. I feel trapped, just as Jesus must have felt when the Pharisees posed to Him the question of whether divorce was lawful (cf. Mk 10:2), or whether it was lawful to pay taxes to the emperor. (cf. Mk 12:14f) So, right from the outset, I want to make it clear that all the faithful are important to me, regardless whether they

have same- or opposite-sex attraction. Like the Lord, I care for every child of God that has been entrusted to me. On one hand, I feel the struggles and pains of those with SSA who sincerely love God and desire to live up to His divine plan for humanity. I feel with them when they are ostracised or marginalised by society. They too deserve to be loved and treated with dignity and respect. Indeed, the Church advocates, “every sign of unjust discrimination towards homosexual persons should be avoided and [the Church] urges States to do away with criminal penalties against them.” (Statement Of The Holy See Delegation At The 63rd Session Of The General Assembly, December 2008) On the other hand, I share the anxieties and fears of those who subscribe to the traditional and scriptural views of marriage and family, that repealing S377A would lead the country down a slippery slope. This is because repealing the law will not be the end of the saga. Rather, it would only embolden the push to legalise same-sex unions, adoption of babies by same-sex couples, surrogacy, and even the criminalisation of those who hold contrary views of marriage and who oppose same-sex unions. So, how do we transcend this legal issue? We must do what Jesus did, by going back to the original intention of God’s creation and the spirit of the law. To the question of divorce, the Lord said, “But from the beginning of creation, ‘God made them male and female.’ ‘For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one flesh.’ So they are no longer two, but one flesh.” (Mk 10:6-8) So too we must go beyond a legalistic interpretation of the law.

What is important is to ask, what is the intention of S377A? Is it intended to penalise the homosexual by punishing him for sexual acts? Does this law run counter to the Holy See’s condemnation of ‘unjust discrimination’ against homosexuals? The Church walks a fine line on this issue. While it joined with two-thirds of the UN member states in rejecting a proposal to decriminalise homosexuality in December 2008, it also urged them to eliminate criminal sanctions for homosexual behaviour. In other words, the Holy See’s stance dovetails with that of the Singapore government. Clearly, the spirit of both the moral and civil laws is to emphasise that same-sex unions are not a social norm as they do not help to foster fruitful and life-giving marriages or cohesive families which are the bedrock of a strong and stable society. This is also intended as a safeguard to prevent champions of “gay rights” from taking their cause beyond the mere repeal of S377A. Indeed, I would not object to a repeal of S377A if it were merely aimed at removing all potential criminal penalties against homosexuals. However, until and unless Parliament puts in place a formulation that more perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the law, guaranteeing the protection of the rights of the majority who favour the traditional family, and that no further demands be made to legalise same-sex unions, adoption of babies by same-sex couples, surrogacy, or to criminalise those who do not support the homosexual lifestyle, I am of the view that S377A should not be repealed under the present circumstances. This is because, by accepting homosexual acts as a social norm, the dreadful consequences for the stability of our families, the well-being of our children, and the risks to the common good will be long-term and irreversible. As the Chief Shepherd of the Archdiocese, I therefore appeal to all Catholics to make a conscientious decision to reject the repeal for the future of our families, humanity and society. Looking at the dire consequences for countries which normalised same-sex unions and the ramifications that followed, may we not repeat the mistake that others have made! I pray that we will not walk the slippery path of no return. Let us be guided by the voice of the Holy Spirit as we discern what is truly good for us, our families and society.

To re-affirm your wish to retain S377A of the Penal Code, you may email REACH at reach@reach.gov.sg stating “I want 377A to remain”.

6 HOME

Sunday September 30, 2018 n CatholicNews

MC Sisters to perform pastoral care at St Theresa’s Home The Gift of Love Home (GOLH) was established in 1987. It comes under the purview of the Ministry of Social and Family Development (MSF). The GOLH has all along been run by the Missionaries of Charity Sisters (MC Sisters) under the auspices of the Catholic Welfare Services (CWS). The GOLH moved to its present Jurong premises in 2012 from Thomson Road. The home has a capacity to house up to 50 destitute persons but is not allowed to accept residents on its own accord except when approved by MSF. Over the years, the number of destitute persons sent by the MSF to the GOLH has dwindled. As of June this year, there were only 22 residents. The MC Sisters had been discerning over the past few years to give up operating the GOLH. The Sisters made their decision because the increasing demands of running the Home was not aligned with their Order’s charism and way of life. The signs of the present time is another indication that the GOLH is no longer needed as the destitute persons sent by MSF to the home became fewer and there is no shortage of beds at other Welfare Homes in Singapore. To facilitate the MC Sisters’ decision, CWS took direct control of the GOLH on July 2, 2018, for the good of the

Missionaries of Charity Sisters at the grotto of the Gift of Love Home in Jurong.

residents, with the aim to continue running it as a Destitute Home. In order to provide the best medical care to the residents, a recent assessment revealed that some residents were already qualified for admission to Nursing Homes (classified as Category 3) whereas GOLH catered only to more ablebodied residents (classified as Categories 1 and 2). Needing more nursing care, Category 3 residents

were intra-transferred to CWS’ own St Joseph’s and St Theresa’s Nursing Homes. A few had to be transferred to other MSF funded welfare homes leaving GOLH with only eight residents. CWS also operates another destitute home in collaboration with the St Vincent De Paul Society, namely the St Vincent Home (SVH) in Waterloo Street. The SVH can accommodate up to 20 residents and is op-

erating at near maximum capacity. Besides the GOLH and SVH for destitute persons, CWS also operates three nursing homes namely St Theresa’s Home, St Joseph’s Home and Villa Francis. Together, these three homes can cater to a maximum of 852 residents requiring nursing care and hospice services. It is not viable or meaningful to run the GOLH home meant for 50 residents with only eight residents

when there is no shortage of beds at other welfare homes in Singapore. Every effort will be made to ensure that these eight remaining residents will be transferred to other welfare homes where they will be well taken care of. The MC Sisters will be taking on the role of pastoral care for residents at St Theresa’s Home when the GOLH ceases operations in mid-October 2018. The Archdiocese and Catholic Welfare Services are very grateful to the Missionaries of Charity Sisters for the love and care they have been providing to the destitute in Singapore since the founding of the Gift of Love Home more than 30 years ago. CWS which is dedicated to protecting the preciousness and dignity of life and journeying with those in need to live life to the fullest, will continue to work harder to assist the homeless, to befriend them and to work with them to overcome their difficulties. CWS and the MSF are working closely toward this end. The Archdiocese, the Missionaries of Charity Sisters and the Catholic Welfare Services would like to express their heartfelt thanks to all benefactors and volunteers of the Gift of Love Home who have brought love and joy to the residents there all these years. n

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BUILDING A VIBRANT, EVANGELISTIC, AND MISSIONARY CHURCH EVENTS BY THE FOLLOWING ARCHDIOCESAN ORGANISATIONS IN 2018 ORGANISATIONS

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

Archdiocesan Commission for Apostolate of Mandarin Speaking

• Migrants Outreach • Rosary Month Procession • Talk on the Gospel of Mark • Family Retreat

• Youth Growth • Malacca Seminar

• Migrants Outreach • Family Mass • Youth Camp

Archdiocesan Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People

• FDW Day • Law & You (28 Oct)

• Spiritual Living Through Art: Rosary Making (18 Nov)

• Her Justice Workshop (9 Dec)

• Advent Retreat (24 Nov)

• Marriage Preparation Course (30 Dec)

• Career Counselling (8, 22 Nov)

• Star of Wonder Christmas Fund Raising Dinner for Needy Children’s Bursary (8 Dec)

Archdiocesan Commission for Tamil Speaking Catholic Business Network

• My Journey, an event with Mr Ooi Boon Hoe (15 Oct) • Career Counselling (11, 25 Oct)

Catholic Spirituality Centre

• CER #62 (3-7 Oct) • Revival Friday (12, 19, 26 Oct) • 4th Sat Healing Mass (27 Oct)

• Prayer Experience Retreat #25 (16-18 Nov) • Revival Friday (2, 9, 23, 30 Nov) • 4th Sat Healing Mass (24 Nov)

• CER #63 (5-9 Dec) • Revival Friday (14, 21, 28 Dec) • 4th Sat Healing Mass (22 Dec) • Countdown to 2019 (31 Dec)

Catholic Theological Institute of Singapore

• Enrolment for 2019 Opens (6 Oct)

• Information Night (9 Nov) • Semester 2 Ends (21 Nov)

• Enrolment for 2019 Closes (8 Dec)

Caritas Singapore

• Personal Moral Compass – Module 6 (18 Oct-6 Dec) • Live the Gospel in the World - Part I, A Weekend Retreat (27-28 Oct)

• Public Talks @ Agape Village – In You, Death Has Lost Its Sting – Preparing for Death (16 Nov) • Review of Life Workshop (20 & 21 Nov • Live the Gospel in the World - Part II (9, 16, 23 Nov)

Office for Catechesis

• Basic Catechist Course Level 2: Human Sexuality (24 Oct-28 Nov) • Basic Catechist Course Level 2: Learning to Listen and Facilitate (27 Oct-3 Nov)

• Bridging Programme: Parent Formation 5 (3 Nov) • Coordinator’s Day of Recollection (6 Nov) • Communi-Tea: Children Catechist & Youth Catechist (10 Nov)

• RCIA: Advent Day of Recollection for Catechumens (1 Dec)

Office for the New Evangelisation

• EMHC & Wardens’ Day of Recollection (13 Oct)

• Choir & Lectors’ Day of Recollection (6 Nov) • Lifeskills Masterclass – For Parents, and Children aged 4-6 years (10 Nov)

• Love in the City (29 Dec)

Office for Young People

• Communities’ Formation (6 Oct) • Youth Coordinators’ Retreat (8-12 Oct) • Poly-ITE Day of Recollection (13 Oct) • Nox Gaudii (26 Oct)

Singapore Archdiocesan Catholic Charismatic Renewal

• School of Healing Prayer Level 3 (13, 14, 20, 21 Oct)

• Combined University Retreat (18-21 Dec)

• School of Healing Prayer – Spiritual Warfare Module (4, 5, 6, 7 Nov) • Rally – Deliver Us From Evil (9 Nov) • Retreat – Set The Captives Free (10, 11 Nov) • School of Charisms Module 2 (17, 18 Nov) • 4th ISAO Conference in Dubai (30 Nov-2 Dec)

Note: For more information, please refer to the respective Organisation’s website. This information is correct at the time of printing. Compiled by Office for the New Evangelisation (ONE), www.one.org.sg

• Advent Day of Recollection (1 Dec) • School of Intercession Module 2 (8, 9 Dec)

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Sunday September 30, 2018 n CatholicNews

ITE students sacrifice 7 weekends to bring in $76,000 for Canossian charity Four students from ITE College West spent seven weekends over July and August raising funds for Canossaville Children and Community Services. And the efforts by Alan Tan, Josh Ang, Cheryl Ee and Gan Shiying, supported by 15 of their fellow students, paid off handsomely – raising $76,000 for the Canossaville charity. The students visited five parishes and invited parishioners to donate as well as sold special tote bags, which they designed, incorporating drawings by a Primary 2 girl who is a Canossaville beneficiary. The drawings, which show a girl, a sheep and a butterfly, come with the affirming words “I am Love”, “I am Faith”, “I am Joy” and “I am Hope”. They spent consecutive weekends, from July 7 to Aug 19, visiting Blessed Sacrament, Novena Church, St Vincent de Paul, Sts Peter and Paul, Christ the King, St Anne’s and Risen Christ. This is the second year in a row that ITE College West

“We are very grateful for their relentless effort to raise this substantial amount.” – Sister Theresa Seow

Students Cheryl Ee (left) and Josh Ang doing their part to raise funds.

students have adopted Canossaville Children and Community Services, registered under the Canossian Sisters, as their char-

ity of choice in the annual CitiYMCA Youth for Causes project. “We are very grateful for their relentless effort to raise this substan-

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Shelley and Daniel Ee (centre) with other members of the Worldwide Marriage Encounter at the World Meeting of Families in Dublin.

World Meeting of Families gets to hear from S’pore couple about family love Attending the World Meeting of Families in Dublin, Ireland, was a most inspiring experience for Singaporean couple Daniel and Shelley Ee. “It was wonderful to see single people, youth, silver-haired couples, grandparents and couples with young children all gathered for this WMOF,” said the couple in an email to Catholic News. “There was excitement and eagerness to learn from the many speakers and panel sessions, to be united at the Eucharist, to give thanks as a community.” Daniel and Shelley, who are the Worldwide Marriage Encounter’s global leaders, were specially invited by Archbishop Diar-

muid Martin of Dublin to be one of three couples to speak at a session titled When Plates Fly – Pope Francis on the Reality of Love in Family Life on Aug 23. The couples were each given about eight minutes to speak on the reality of love experienced by families in everyday life. “We spoke about how after the initial romance stage, couples enter into some kind of disillusionment with each other and what attracted us now became a source of irritation,” said the Ees in their email. They shared how Marriage Encounter helps couples to communicate “at the heart level” and also gave examples of how they made the decision and commitment to

love one another despite challenges. The couple also spoke at a Worldwide Marriage Encounter Ireland meeting on Aug 24, a WMOF fringe event, where they dwelt on how the Marriage Encounter weekends had spread to 94 countries and regions, including China, Cuba, Siberia and Haiti. The World Meeting of Families is a major international Church event held every three years. Its purpose is to bring together families from across the world to celebrate, pray and reflect upon the importance of marriage and the family as the cornerstone of people’s lives, of society and of the Church. The recent meeting was held from Aug 21-26. n

tial amount,” said Canossian Sister Theresa Seow, Supervisor/Acting Executive Director of Canossaville. The funds will benefit the chil-

dren under the charity’s care while “giving priority to the poorest living in the lower income neighbourhoods”, she said. Canossaville, located in the Aljunied-MacPherson area, offers pre-school and student care services for children from 18 months to 12 years old. It also takes in children with hearing loss and mild to moderate learning needs. The charity’s Canossian Child Development Unit, set up in July, also serves children and their families from Canossian institutions who have learning, behavioural and financial needs. For more information on Canossaville, visit canossaville.org. sg.

Sunday September 30, 2018  CatholicNews

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Looking for love in all the right places This issue, we explore the meaning of Chastity and dispel some common myths such as it’s just about remaining a virgin and abstaining from sex and physical intimacy until after marriage. The stories on this page serve to illustrate that, as gifts from God, we are each a product of love, from love for love. Each and every one of us is a human person of love and not an object or thing to be used and discarded. We need to believe in ourselves and in others just as God believes in us and loves us. Otherwise we will be ‘looking for love in all the wrong places’.

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Chastity from a Sex Ed expert’s point of view We spoke to 25-year-old Rebecca (not her real name), who works as a Sex-Ed trainer. This role has given her the opportunity to spread the truths that she has learned about sex and sexuality with other young people in Singapore. Through this work, she has come to see the real meaning of the virtue of chastity and our call to love as Christians. Here she gives us some insights into why she prefers to live a chaste life today as God has planned for her. Chastity is sexual honesty In a world that gives you a secondrate understanding of freedom and liberty, Rebecca has come to understand, through being chaste, that true freedom is willing what is good always – to be pure in mind and body. She understands chastity as sexual honesty and views it as a way of life that lets her truly embrace the beauty of sexuality. Chastity gets a bad rap as Rebecca well knows: “Nowadays even the word ‘chastity’ has the negative connotations of rigidity,

The human body includes right from the beginning... the capacity of expressing love, that love in which the person becomes a gift – and by means of this gift – fulfills the meaning of his being and existence. T H E O L O G Y O F T H E B O D Y, JANUARY 16, 1980

sexual repression and religious extremism. However, the opposite is true. Chastity actually allows you to express your sexuality in the most honest and whole way. When you live a life of chastity, you become free from the chains of negative sexual expression.” Promiscuity isn’t freedom or power “I used to be promiscuous and it became addictive – from the pleasure that sex brings in the moment, to the feeling you get when you receive attention from the opposite sex when you dress provocatively. You find you start to chase it, only to realise that you’re never going to really be satisfied.” When she eventually made the decision to live a life of chastity, she struggled, and still does, with the fear of being judged, or the fear of seeming to judge others. “The last thing I want is to come off as “holier than thou” and that’s usually the case with chastity,” Rebecca explains. “The thing is, I’ve come to know an

alternative way of life that can bring true fullness, wholeness and happiness. It’s hard to communicate that to someone if they haven’t experienced it for themselves.” However, she knows she’s found the right path, simply by the way she feels now. “When I think back to the way I used to live, I liked the attention I received when I dressed to attract. As a woman who dresses provocatively, you think you feel powerful and ‘in control’ when you can attract men and get them to do anything for you. But is it real power when you become a slave to their attention?” Rebecca soon realised that that was never true power. In competition with other women more attractive than her, she would feel her own worth diminish. Now she has come to see that she was never in a position of ‘power’ in the first place. Thoughts are as important as actions Embracing modesty now, Rebecca has come to value her worth and dignity. After all, God does not make junk. Self-worth and dignity are qualities that lie within a person. They are not based on what she wears. “The media has portrayed the ‘perfect woman’ as looking a certain way, but the real essence of a woman can’t be conveyed through a picture because that’s only visual. Womanhood and the full expression of female sexuality are expressed through the way she dresses, converses and thinks,”

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says Rebecca. How one thinks is key in chastity, as she explains: “It’s no good pretending to be modest on the outside but having a mind full of sexually driven and impure thoughts. With chastity, your mind and your thoughts become pure and you can truly see everyone for who they are as people. Think about how rare this is and you will know how lacking the virtue of chastity is in our society.” So Rebecca is no longer concerned about attracting people through her physical appearance. She dresses modestly but that’s not to say she is unfashionable. “I love fashion and I like to be on trend (always have, always will!). In style now are shift dresses. They are great for girls who want to be modest.”

Your body is a precious gift “If something is precious to you, you wouldn’t just let anyone have it or touch it or use it. That’s how I now view my body,” she explains. “I don’t like the expression ‘saving myself’ for my spouse because ‘saving’ connotes ‘spending’ or ‘splurging’ later on. I like to think that I’m just keeping my body unused and ‘safe’ for myself first, and then my future spouse.” Rebecca looks forward to sharing herself (body, mind and soul) with her future husband. “I believe that truly “the two become one” and that is what marriage is. It’s so horrid to think that others have already had a part of me before the man I marry. I want my marriage to be whole and true. And I can have that if I first live as a whole and true individual – an individual first before a spouse.”

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Sunday September 30, 2018  CatholicNews

The men get it too Our interview with Rishik, 29, reveals that chastity is not just a female perspective. His decision to live a chaste life has had an overwhelmingly positive effect on all his relationships. Let’s find out why. What was your idea of sexuality like before? Rishik: It was in secondary school that my idea of manliness began to form, and to me a man’s measure depended on how desirable he was to girls. If a boy had a girlfriend, he was popular, and the more girlfriends he had, the more popular or desirable he was. So I poured a lot of my life into this goal - trying to meet girls, even though I was in an all-boys’ school. Trying my best to “win them” over, to charm them. How did this misconception of sexuality impact the way you lead your life? Rishik: Before I came to know God, I had no personal belief or conviction in abstinence or chastity. I saw it as an out-dated conservative belief, and another hurdle in my quest to convince girls to have sex with me. Staying a virgin, at that time, felt like an embarrassing secret, and I strongly desired to have sex with as many girls as possible. It was during my time in university in London that I tried harder than ever to have sex, rather than focus on studies. One consequence of this was that I started losing control of myself, drinking, smoking, and turning to porn and masturbation, rather than pursuing things which gave me life, like music, running, or my studies. Even when I finally lost my virginity, I didn’t find happiness.

Instead I found shame, and emptiness. The women I slept with didn’t love me, and used me as much as I used them. Those I lied to, with sweet nothings, to talk them into bed, I could never face again the next morning, and relationships and friendships were thrown away for fleeting pleasure. Where are you today in your journey of Chastity? Rishik: By God’s providence, I returned to Singapore, and joined the youth community in my parish. It was during this time, I met Catholics who loved me, journeyed with and challenged me to grow in knowledge of the faith, as well as challenged me to live an authentic Christian life. It was also through this community that I discovered a spiritual director, and a community of brothers who were accountable to each other for their struggles with chastity. I was introduced to a radical new idea of manhood, that meant sacrifice and love. A new idea of manhood that meant strength in restraint and selflessness. What does it mean to live a life of chastity in a world that preaches otherwise? Rishik: It means being resolute with my fiancee about not engaging in sex before marriage, and not putting ourselves in positions that may lead us into temptation. We make sure we are not alone at home together and don’t go travelling together. But it’s more than just the physical aspect, as chastity means purity even in our thoughts and the way we conduct ourselves when alone. The decision to stay chaste

Helping our Youth on their Chastity Journey

during this relationship bore so many fruits I am thankful for today. Where in the past I used to be selfish, quick-tempered, selfrighteous and arrogant, I suddenly found myself being patient, kind, and gentle. These were qualities I never had before, but which I was developing because I could see how my behaviour, my words would hurt my fiancee, and I wanted to love her and protect her. Chastity has lifted the blindness of sin that previously led me to view my female colleagues and friends as objects, or as potential sexual conquests. It has allowed me to experience freedom in loving them without expectations or ulterior motives. I believe this has helped grow and purify my heart, and helped me grow in love, as God designed.

Being Authentic Gifts (BAGs) We are a team formed under the auspices of the Archdiocesan Commission for the Family (ACF) that looks after the holistic development of young people (specifically between the ages of 15-25) in preparing them for a fulfilled life lived with meaning, purpose and direction. We aspire to instil in them the importance and wonder of being authentic gifts to others as they discern their vocation in life. For more information about our monthly Theology of the Body (TOB) Community meetings or the FREE weekend, please contact bag@acf.org.sg

Family Life Society – Education Programmes FLS Education Department offers its signature sexuality education programme called Made For More (MFM). It comes in two versions: I Am Made For More for Teens and My Child Is Made For More for Parents of Teens. MFM aims to address sexuality issues on premarital, casual sex and pornography. The unique approach does not dwell on the consequences of unhealthy and risky sexual behaviour; it is a programme that proposes alternative truths as to why, as human beings, we are naturally inclined to sexual honesty, dignity, respect and authentic freedom. Call us at 6488 0278 or drop us an email for more information at education@familylife.sg

My Child is Made For More sessions

How difficult is it to speak with friends who have differing views and tell them about chastity? Rishik: It’s hard to connect with my peers, especially when most of them are living lives of sexual insobriety. At most, I can lead by example. I have noticed that even the little things I say or do can be very shocking and challenging to them. A friend of mine once asked if I had ever travelled with my fiancee, and she was quite shocked when I said I hadn’t. She told me that she feels couples should live together or at least travel together before getting married. I definitely piqued her curiosity, and opened her mind to the idea that there are people, even guys, who don’t believe in premarital sex.

3 & 10 November 2018 Lifelong Learning Institute, 11 Eunos Road 8, S408601 $50 Single Ticket, $80 two tickets Enquiries: Call Hershey or Sophia at 6488 0278

What words of wisdom do you have for Christians who desire to live a chaste life? Rishik: I am made in the image and likeness of God, and my body is sacred. I know that each of my brothers and sisters is also God’s creation, and their bodies are likewise equally holy and to be afforded dignity and respect. Only in a sacred union of marriage, where I am faithfully committed to my spouse, whom I have chosen, am I able to give my body as a gift of love, and receive her body as a mutual gift of love. Totally, faithfully, freely and fruitfully.

Catholic Family Events in September - November 2018

For a list of family events in the Archdiocese visit

September 25

October 28

Pieta Monthly Support Session for Bereaved Parents 25 September & 23 October 2018 Tuesday 7.30 pm – 9.00 pm Agape Village 7A Lorong 8 Toa Payoh Singapore 319264 We meet as a group of bereaved parents to find mutual support through prayer, scripture and sharing of experiences. No need to register, just walk in. Pieta.singapore@gmail.com facebook.com/PietaSingapore

8 Annual Pieta Memorial Mass for Children Who Have Died

Retrouvaille

Marriage Encounter Weekend

28 – 30 September Friday 7 pm to Sunday 6:30 pm CHOICE Retreat House, 47 Jurong West Street 42, Singapore 649368

28 – 30 September Friday 7 pm to Sunday 6.30 pm Marriage Encounter House 201B Punggol 17th Avenue Singapore 829651

CHOICE is for single young adults aged between 18 – 40 years old (Catholics and Non-Catholics) seeking some time to re-examine the values, lifestyle and relationships in their own lives.

For couples with marital problems including those who are considering marriage separation and those who are already separated or divorced but want marriage help.

5–7 October 2018 2–4 November 2018 Friday 8 pm – Sunday 6 pm Marriage Encounter House 201B Punggol 17th Avenue Singapore 829651

registration@choice.org.sg

retrouvaille.singapore@gmail.com +65 6522 8750

November

CHOICE Weekend

Hillary (9790 0537) Carrie (9671 6695) Francesca (9710 9680)

catholicfamily.org.sg/events

Discover the weekend that has been transforming marriages all over the world for more than 40 years. For couples married two years and above. wwmesg.org/me-weekend-selector to book a weekend.

8 November 2018 Thursday 8 pm Cathedral of the Good Shepherd A, Queen Street Singapore 188533 We will be holding a mass for all children who have died (including unborn and adult 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 contact us by email with your name, contact details and your child’s name. Email to pieta.singapore@gmail.com before 21 October 2018.

This section is produced by the Archdiocesan Commission for the Family and is published on the last issue of each month. For more information on Catholic family life matters, visit catholicfamily.org.sg.

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Sunday September 30, 2018 n CatholicNews

Starting them young to have love for the elderly

Guided by the principle that it is important for children to cultivate a love for and show appreciation to the elderly, the Marist-run Catholic Kindergarten organised a mission trip to the Miriam Home in Kluang, Malaysia. Thirty-three K2 kids, accompanied by 40 parents, five teachers, principal Edna Ng, and Marist Brother Elmer E. Jandic, spent Sept 3-4 interacting with the elderly residents. The children chatted with the residents, listened to their stories and served them food. Modern and Chinese folk dances, and games such as “ring and cone” were also part of the entertainment they brought for the residents. The highlight of the visit was the “parachute game” where the children teamed up with the elderly residents. They held the edges of a huge piece of colourful nylon fabric, which had a hole in the centre. They had to keep bouncing the fabric to prevent a ball from entering the hole. There were squeals of delight

Playing the “parachute game” where everyone has to keep flapping the fabric to prevent the ball from entering the hole in the centre.

and excitement as both young and old worked together to keep the ball bouncing. At the end of the visit, the kids and their parents were visibly moved by the appreciation shown by the elderly residents. One student, David Low, said

he enjoyed his visit so much and was amused by one resident who put the coloured rings through her arm during the “ring and cone” game. Another student, Issac Lee, said he loved playing games with the residents and added that he

A kid learning about caring for the elderly at meal time.

would “like to go back and visit them again”. This is the fourth such visit which has been organised to cultivate a love for the elderly and provide the young ones an opportunity to bond with their parents, friends and teachers.

The visits first started in 2012 when a staff of the kindergarten, who knew a Canossian nun at the home, suggested that such a trip would be beneficial not only for the elderly residents but also for the children. The home is run by the Canossian Sisters. n

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Sunday September 30, 2018  CatholicNews

GET CONNECTED: 2 LORONG LOW KOON, SINGAPORE 536449 T 6285 2571 | 6286 0341 W www.oyp.org.sg For enquiries, please email: info.oyp@catholic.org.sg

FEATURE

Uni Leaders Commissioning Mass

Archbishop William Goh and Fr. Brian D’Souza with the newly commissioned university leaders

by Gerald Lee On 23rd August 2018, Archbishop William Goh celebrated the commissioning mass for the incoming leaders of our university Catholic societies. Over the past five years, the university desk of OYP has been working among and alongside university students, helping them to encounter the person of Jesus, encouraging their discipleship walk with the Lord and guiding them in pastoring and serving their respective campus communities. The students face many challenges in their efforts to put Christ first in their lives. As we walk closely with them, we help them realise what it means to follow Jesus and encourage them as they begin to make changes in their lives required of a disciple of Jesus.

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Our walk with Jesus should culminate in a desire for the explicit proclamation of the Good News.

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We also guide them to grow in awareness that communion is for mission, to heed the Lord’s call to “go and make disciples of all the nations”. Our walk with Jesus should culminate in a desire for the explicit proclamation of the Good News. Being a disciple of Jesus necessitates the discovery of our unique place in the

Body of Christ – His church. OYP emphasises an ecclesial spirituality and facilitates both individual and corporate expressions of being church. As we begin to identify potential leaders in the various communities, we also prepare and equip them for leadership roles and impart tools for pastoring and ministering to them. We believe that in being called to serve in this way, the Lord calls these young men and women to greater intimacy and fullness of life in Him. Jesus is the source and summit of their faith and the reason for their service. If you are a university student looking for a Catholic community on campus, contact us at info.oyp@catholic.org. sg, and we will connect you with someone.

TESTIMONY & THANKSGVING

The Lord Shares My Burdens

James giving his testimony at the commissioning mass

by James Chong My name is James, and I am the former President of NTU CSA. I am deeply humbled by this opportunity to share about how God has changed my life by serving His flock. The past year for me, has been a constant struggle with the Lord, as He continually called me out of my comfort zone. But as much as He challenged me through uncomfortable situations, He also affirmed me of my growth, reminded me of His love for me, and bathed me in the light of His truth. Every time that I felt weary, He sent me His truths to keep me going. I will share three of them with you. First, my spiritual growth is up to me. I used to compare my relationship with God to others and would feel en-

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vious of how some people could fall so deeply in love with Him and be so docile to His holy spirit. Conversely, I would also question how people who had been blessed abundantly, still did not desire a deeper relationship with the One who had blessed them. Jesus revealed to me that my own spiritual growth is a result of all the times that I gave Him my yes along the way. The Lord’s call to lead a life of holiness is ever present, even if He doesn’t send us grand signs. If we are attentive to His voice, we will realise that He is constantly calling us to come to Him. It is up to us to choose how we want to respond to this invitation to greater intimacy, even in the seasons when we don’t feel like it. Next, a community cannot function without its leaders, and leaders do not exist without their people. In my first semester of leadership, I was very caught up in the administrative side of things. I was so preoccupied with striving to ensure that everything was well-planned and ran smoothly, that I forgot about my role as a pastor to my people. At different points during the year, I felt that I had very few people that I could share my heart for my flock with, and took the responsibility of carrying my people forward, upon myself. However, during CUR last year, as I looked upon everyone during Eucharistic Adoration, Jesus reminded me of His call upon my life to be a shepherd to His people first. Ultimately, He was the Saviour, and I was His beloved servant. He relieved me of the burden that I had placed on myself unnecessarily, to do it all for the community. Since then, He has sent me brothers and sisters to grow with and minister to.

He has never given me more than I could handle. He continues to increase my desire, for more for His people. He affirms me that through my efforts in raising up leaders after His own heart, many more will come to experience Christ through them as well. Indeed, the Lord entrusts us with what we can manage and uses whatever we give to Him, for His glory. Lastly, love can be painful, just as Jesus’ heart broke for us, His people. As much as I take joy in seeing how people have turned to God in CSA, I also bear the pain of seeing people walk away from the community, people who say they have not felt love within the church. I remember feeling so discouraged at the start of my term last year, especially when our community was in dire straits. I remember going back to hall, feeling utterly and completely defeated. I felt placed in a seemingly impossible situation. I can still recall the tears I shed with my co-leaders as we shared about how helpless we all felt. But as I received prayer for this struggle, the Lord reminded me that in all the times that I felt abandoned, I was sharing in the burden that Jesus bore on His walk to Calvary. This revelation bolstered my spirit. All the trials I faced in leadership have truly been blessings in disguise that have helped me to cling to the Lord and love His people even more. My prayer for the incoming leaders is to remember that as they serve, the Lord is doing His work of salvation within each one of them. I wish all of them a blessed time of growth as they serve! Amen.

1/9/18 12:19 PM

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Fr Eugene Vaz, SSVP’s Spiritual Advisor, giving holy communion to a Friend-in-Need (FIN).

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A Vincentian helping a FIN prepare his bait for prawning during a social outing.

Lending a helping ha to the poor and need In this series on Catholic social service organisations, Catholic News features the Society of St Vincent de Paul, which has been helping Jared Ng Joyce (not her real name) was a single mother of three young children. She was struggling to find employment, meet the demands of parenthood from getting a roof over their heads to putting three meals on the table. Lost and under severe stress, she approached the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SSVP) for assistance. The SSVP’s Social Office then took up the case. The SSVP Social Office is an initiative which started in 2015 to provide more holistic assistance to the poor and needy, more commonly known to SSVP as Friendsin-Need (FINs), in Singapore. After hearing her story and her challenges, the case workers and SSVP members, who are also called Vincentians, decided to intervene by setting goals and introducing suitable programmes that would be beneficial for Joyce and her family. This included arranging tuition for her children and helping her find a stable job. The Vincentians from the Church of St Anthony made regular visits to Joyce’s home not only to provide provisions, but to also to journey with her in her struggles and concerns. Meantime, other Caritas member social service organisations, such as the Catholic Lawyers

Guild stepped in to assist Joyce. Today, Joyce has secured a permanent home for her family as well as better employment. Whether it is helping the poor by providing provisions, assisting those facing financial hardship or visiting the sick and lonely, the primary mission of SSVP, as a lay apostolate organisation, is to “follow and imitate Jesus”, said Ms Florence Tan, SSVP president, who has served as a Vincentian for 15 years. “One of the key things that Jesus did was to help the poor ... when you follow and imitate Jesus then your heart will go towards wanting to do what He did which is to help your neighbours,” she said. SSVP has been helping the poor and needy in Singapore since 1951. Today, it has about 600 members from 29 parishes in Singapore serving 2,200 families or over 3,300 FINs. The organisation serves FINs regardless of race, language and religion. Over the years, it has responded to social changes by expanding its range of services which include setting up the Social Office and launching new initiatives, such as the Milk and Diaper project. These changes also come with a need to equip Vincentians with skills that allow them to better

serve FINs. Training by professional social workers from the SSVP Social Office and workshops are held periodically, said Ms Tan. The Milk and Diaper project is targeted at low income families by providing milk and diapers for their children. SSVP is currently supporting about 180 babies across various housing estates. When migrants encounter issues such as work disputes, injuries or employers not paying them, SSVP also assists by providing them their basic needs as well as referring them

to other Caritas member organisations who can support in other areas. Visits to the migrant dormitories are organised during Lent and Advent to give migrants provisions and Vincentians take the opportunity to interact and befriend them. Several SSVP conferences in parishes provide tuition for children who come from homes facing various challenges. At St Joseph’s Church (Bukit Timah), not only is tuition provided but a chartered bus also brings the children to the parish and back home.

Church volunteers, who are auxilliary members of SSVP, also befriend the students to encourage them to continue with the tuition programme. There are also annual Masses that bring FINs from different areas together. In April this year, SSVP held its first evangelical outreach rally for FINs from various parishes at St Joseph’s Institution. “At the end of the day, we identified certain groups of people who had needs and we set up programmes that catered to them,” said Ms Tan. Because of the sheer number of

Several SSVP conferences in parishes provide tuition for children who come from needy homes.

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Fr K. S. Michaelraj saying a prayer at the Church of the Sacred Heart before rations are handed out to FINs.

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programmes, SSVP may sometimes seem to be just an organisation that gives food and money. However, Ms Tan said that Vincentians are always reminded of their mission of following in Jesus’ footsteps. “We befriend and interact with our FINs where they are at. To understand their troubles and to journey with them through it,” she said, adding that there is no fixed time frame that Vincentians are supposed to journey with an individual or family. “Depending on their needs and situation, some journeys are very long,” said Ms Tan. Ms Magdalene Tan, a Vincentian for 25 years, said, “It’s not just helping the poor. There is a spirituality at work and Christ is the focus of what we do ... When they [FINs] see us, they know that Christ cares for them.” She shared an experience of how a Catholic FIN, who had not attended Mass for a long time because of a physical ailment, was “deeply touched and grateful” after she was brought to Novena Church by Vincentians and received the sacraments. Ms Alicia Ang, another member, said that her journey as a Vincentian “has gone beyond simply doing acts of charity and bonding with our FINs. In fact, I have also grown a lot spiritually in the past three to four years since I’ve joined. I’ve been in-

spired to attend retreats, which I have never done before ... I have also been incredibly lucky to be surrounded by Vincentians with big hearts and even greater passion to do good.” Moving forward, SSVP has placed a greater emphasis on engaging parishioners and parish communities in their mission. One such example is when SSVP conferences in various parishes launched a Christmas initiative to support FINs in their vicinity. This initiative, often jointly organised with other parish organisations, see FINs writing down a list of items that they wished to receive during Christmas. The lists are then taken up by parishioners who will purchase the items and return them to the parish for distribution to the FINs. Next year, a social enterprise, the SSVP Shop, will be launched to further aid those in need. According to Ms Tan, the enterprise, to be located at 501 Geyland Road, will have “value for money items” and a small cafe. It will be manned by Vincentians. To find out more about the work of SSVP or if you are interested in becoming a Vincentian, email enquiry@ssvpsingapore.org or visit http://ssvpsingapore.org/. n jared.ng@catholic.org.sg

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Love and addictions: what young people are going through Alcoholism, drug use, gaming and More than 30 parents, grandphone usage – these are just some parents, teachers and counsellors, of the addictions affecting young listened intently as she shared people today. some signs of addiction to look These addictions are usually a out for such as changes in behavresult of anxiety and depression, iour, being withdrawn and telling said Ms Yvonne Yuen, a psycho- lies. therapist from WE CARE ComThe event also saw Youthmunity Services, a centre that Reach, an outreach programme treats all forms of addictions. run by Boys’ Town, present a Speaking during a talk titled short clip on young people sharUnderstanding Our Youths: Love ing candidly about what they want and Addiction, Ms Yuen said, in life. “Addiction is a disThree young ease, often chronic performers from One of the in nature, which afProject Fireworks, most common fects the functiona YouthReach iniing of the brain tiative, then put on symptoms of and body.” One of a play that showaddiction is the most common cased a situation at symptoms of addichome when a teenthe continued tion is the loss of age daughter comes abuse despite control and continhome late to a cold serious negative reception from parued abuse despite serious negative ents who had been consequences, consequences. waiting for her to said Ms She said those have dinner toseeking medical Yvonne Yuen, a gether. Participants help can reach out to watched how a fampsychotherapist. ily falls apart when a few institutions including the National harsh and hurtful Addiction Management Service, words are used in a fit of anger. Changi General Hospital and Four other performers also Mount Elizabeth Hospital. For put on a contemporary dance that counselling support, WE CARE showcased the frustration and Community Services is an avenue struggles of young people. people can turn to. The next Public Talk @ Agape The talk on Sept 15, was held Village, to be held on Nov 16 at at Agape Village, and was the sec- 7.30 pm, will look at “In You, ond in a series of public talks by Death Has Lost Its Sting: PreparCaritas Singapore to share profes- ing for Death.” sional knowledge and expertise For more information, visit on a wide variety of topics. www.caritas-singapore.org.n

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A contemporary dance showcasing the frustration and struggles of young people.

Caritas’ public talks In 2018, Caritas Singapore launched the first of a series of public talks at Agape Village. This series serves as a platform for Caritas member organisations and partners to share professional knowledge and expertise on a wide variety of topics, and raise awareness of the programmes and services provided by the participating organisations. The first public talk, held on July 14, was on Understanding Labour, Birth and Postnatal SelfCare. The talk was a collaborative effort with Joyful Parenting and Clarity.

YouthReach YouthReach helps vulnerable boys and girls, typically between ages 10 and 21, who face a range of issues such as self-harm, struggles in school, association with gangs, under-aged sex, conflicting relationships and addictions. One of its initiatives, Project Fireworks, aims to bring out the voice of young people in a safe space. In this project, young women are exposed to arts such as drama and dance. Through the 10week programme, they learn more about themselves and the outcome of the project is their performance. For more information, visit https://www.boystown.org.sg/ youthreach.

WE CARE WE CARE treats all forms of addictions including drugs, alcohol, compulsive gambling, sex, porn, eating, Internet, gaming, shopping or shoplifting. It takes a holistic approach to help people live an addiction-free life by offering evidence-based counselling and therapy group work. WE CARE is also a community-based drop-in centre where a safe, supportive and nonjudgemental environment is provided for individuals to stabilise and work on their recovery. For more information, visit http://www.wecare. org.sg.

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Bringing the Word of God to Life

www.magnificat.com.sg

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Boys’ Town marks 70 years, holds open house A Boys’ Town staff sharing with Mr Desmond Lee (centre), Minister for Social and Family Development, and Mr Gerard Lee (right), Boys’ Town’s Chairman, the tools used to engage young clients.

Boys’ Town celebrated its 70th anniversary with an open house filled with a series of activities such as tours and exhibitions that showcased the work of the charity. Mr Desmond Lee, Minister for Social and Family Development, was the guest of honour at the Sept 15 event which also saw the official launch of Boys’ Town Adventure Centre (BTAC)’s Adventure Tower. In his speech, Mr Lee lauded the BTAC’s Adventure Tower which uses “outdoor adventure to help children and youth build their confidence and self-esteem”. He said organisations like Boy’s Town play a critical role in providing holistic and effective support for children and youth from disadvantaged families. During the open house, exhibition panels were set up to highlight the key services of Boys’ Town. Staff were also on hand to share about the charity’s work with visitors. There was also a photo exhibition showcasing the works of Boys’ Town’s residential youth from the Media Club. In conjunction with the launch of the Adventure Tower, visitors were shown the different activities that can be conducted at the tower. There are varying levels of difficulty in the rock climbing across three walls at the tower. Abseiling

and quick jumping are also part of the myriad of activities available. The Adventure Tower serves as an integral part of adventure therapy for Boys’ Town and developmental programmes are held using its facilities to

help children and youth-in-need. The tower was built with the donation from the late Dr Michael Fam. The launch was officiated by Mr Lee, Boys’ Town’s Chairman Gerard Lee, and Ms Anita Fam, who represented the Fam family. n

Visitors trying out rock climbing at the Boys’ Town Adventure Tower.

Sunday September 30, 2018 n CatholicNews

By Jennifer Ficcaglia Jesus was travelling around Galilee with His apostles. At one point, He asked Peter, James and John to come with Him up a high mountain. Once they were on the mountain, Jesus was suddenly changed. His clothes became a dazzling white, and Elijah and Moses appeared to speak with Him. A cloud came and cast a shadow over everyone, and a voice could be heard saying, “This is my beloved Son. Listen to Him.” Just as suddenly, the cloud, Elijah and Moses were gone. Jesus told them to say nothing of what they saw until the Son of Man rose from the dead. After they came down the mountain, Jesus healed a boy who was possessed by a demon. Then the friends continued their journey. Along the way, Jesus explained that

“the Son of Man is to be handed over to men and they will kill Him, and three days after His death the Son of Man will rise.” But the apostles didn’t understand and were afraid to ask questions. As they neared Capernaum, the apostles began to argue with one another. When they reached their destination, Jesus asked what they were fighting about. The apostles looked at one another sheepishly and were silent, because they had been arguing about which one of them was the greatest. But, of course, Jesus already knew what they had been saying. He called His friends to Him. “If anyone wishes to be first, he shall be the last of all and the servant of all,” Jesus explained. He then brought a child into their midst. “Whoever receives one child

SPOTLIGHT ON SAINTS:

St Louis Bertrand St Louis Bertrand was born in Spain in 1526. When he was 18 years old, he became a Dominican and was ordained a priest in 1547. He became known for his holiness and compassion after caring for plague victims in Valencia in 1557. In 1562, he became a missionary for six years, working on several Caribbean islands and also in Colombia. His passion for evangelisation resulted in 15,000 people becoming Christian. After returning to Spain, he trained preachers for missions. He died in 1581, and we honour him on Oct 9. n

such as this in my name, receives me; and whoever receives me, receives not me but the One who sent me,” He said. John then told Jesus something that the apostles had done. “Teacher, we saw someone driving out demons in your name, and we tried to prevent him because he does not follow us,” John said. Jesus told His friends that the person should have been allowed to drive out demons.

“There is no one who performs a mighty deed in my name who can at the same time speak ill of me. For whoever is not against us is for us,” Jesus said. n Read more about it: Mark 9

Q&A 1. Where were Jesus and the apostles travelling? 2. What were the apostles arguing about?

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BIBLE TRIVIA: What did Peter want to make for Jesus, Elijah and Moses? (Hint: Mark 9:5)

Bible Accent: For whoever is not against us is for us. Answer to puzzle: Answer to Bible Trivia: Tents

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Just days before Jesus’ death, the apostles once again argued over who was the greatest. We read in Luke 22 that Jesus and the apostles were in Jerusalem for the Passover and had gathered to share the Passover meal together. Christians call this meal “the Last Supper.” After Jesus instituted the Eucharist during the Last Supper, He said that He would be betrayed by one of the Twelve. Afterward, the apostles began to bicker over which one of them should be viewed as the greatest. Jesus looked at His arguing friends. “The kings of the Gentiles lord it over them and those in authority over them are addressed as ‘Benefactors’; but among you it shall not be so,” He said. “Rather, let the greatest among you be as the youngest, and the leader as the servant.” Jesus then asked them who was greater – the one who is seated at table or the one who serves. “Is it not the one seated at table? I am among you as the one who serves,” He said. “It is you who have stood by me in my trials; and I confer a kingdom on you, just as my Father has conferred one on me, that you may eat and drink at my table in my kingdom; and you will sit on thrones judging the 12 tribes of Israel.” n

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Discipleship involves sacrifice, taking up the cross, denying selfish pride VATICAN CITY – To be a disciple of Christ, it is necessary to make sacrifices and deny one’s self, Pope Francis said in his Angelus address on Sept 16. “Jesus tells us that in order to follow Him, to be His disciples, one must deny oneself – that is, the claims of one’s own selfish pride – and take up one’s very cross,” CNA/EWTN News reported. “Then He gives everyone a fundamental rule. And what is this rule? ‘Whoever wants to save his life will lose it.’” Faith must go further than mere words and must lead to concrete actions and choices “marked by love of God, by a great life, by a life with so much love for neighbour”, said the Pope. He explained that for many reasons, people may end up “looking for happiness only in things, or in the people we treat as things”. “But we find happiness only when love, real [love], meets us, surprises us, changes us. Love changes everything! And love can change us too, each of us. The testimonies of the saints demonstrate this,” he said. The Pope stressed that Jesus wants His disciples to have a personal relationship with Him and to

Faith must go beyond mere words, said Pope Francis in his Angelus address. CNS file photo

make Him the centre of their lives. “Everyone is called to respond, in his own heart, letting himself be illuminated by the light that the Father gives us to know His Son Jesus,” he said. And like Peter, one might confirm enthusiastically, that He is Christ.” “But when Jesus tells us clearly what He said to the disciples, namely that His mission is accom-

Crossword Puzzle 1219 1

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www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

ACROSS 1 Opening of the largest diocese in a province 5 Religious garb 10 London jail 14 The Holy See 15 Blue 16 “The ___ of the Ancient Mariner” 17 What we are forbidden to do by the fifth commandment

18 Uninterested 19 Home of Adam and Eve 20 Mules 22 “By the mercy of God, we do not lose ____” (2 Cor 4:1) 23 Purple quartz 26 Noon prayer time 30 “Our Father who _____…” 31 “_____ humbug!” 34 Gatherings

35 Book attributed to Solomon (abbr.) 36 Pepsi or Coke 37 Former Russian rulers 38 My _____ Sal 39 Plume 40 Repeat 41 ____ Minister 42 Auburn 43 Fruit drink 44 Rev.’s alma mater 45 Starts again

46 Like Catholic author Andrew Greeley 48 A fallen angel 51 Hilton, for example 56 8th month of the Jewish calendar 57 A sister of Calliope 59 Spherical opening? 60 Formerly, formerly 61 Intense light beam 62 Verne’s captain 63 Scarf 64 Window cover

plished not in the broad road of success, but in the arduous path of the suffering, humiliated, rejected and crucified Servant,” then it can be easy to want to protest and rebel, like Peter did, he said. He said: In these moments, Christians deserve the same reproof Jesus gave Peter: “Get behind me, Satan. You are thinking not as God does, but as human beings do.” n

65 Small drink of liquor

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DOWN 1 Commandment carrier and Noah’s ship 2 Upset 3 CCCXXI + DCXXX 4 Our Lady, ____ of Christians 5 “____ papam” 6 Islands in the Atlantic 7 Blow-up 8 Anger 9 Hesburgh of Notre Dame, to friends 10 “…____ one another with a holy kiss” (1 Cor 16:20) 11 Ethiopian princess of music 12 Biblical dry measure 13 Season that begins with Ash Wednesday 21 These were waved at Jesus when he entered Jerusalem 22 After FDR 24 “____ Mary”

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Jr. and Sr. Media union (abbr.) Edged ahead Mark Continental money Diocese in Idaho Catholic comedian married to Burns Stops ____ of the Cross Pointed end Favorite food of Isaac (Gen 25:28) Cite Scripture Bk. of the Pentateuch Reestablish ____ of Man Rampaged Direction from Jerusalem to Nazareth Capital of Tibet ____ Irae Jaguarundi Sunday service Holy _____ Road to the Colosseum Madame Bovary The Upper ____ High trains Cheer

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Christians without mercy live like worldly pagans, says Pope Francis VATICAN CITY – Christians are not defined by their baptism but by whether they live their lives according to God’s command to love their enemies, Pope Francis said. While it may seem easier to speak ill of an enemy, Christian logic goes in the opposite direction and follows “the folly of the cross”, the Pope said in his homily on Sept 13 during morning Mass at his residence. “Only the merciful resemble God the Father. ‘Be merciful, just as your Father is merciful.’ This is the path, the path that goes against the spirit of the world,” he said. The Pope reflected on the day’s Gospel reading from St Luke, in which Jesus tells His disciples to “love your enemies, do good to those who hate you, bless those who curse you, pray for those who mistreat you”. The command to love and pray for one’s enemies “is the way to live like a Christian”, which entails mirroring God’s infinite love and mercy, the Pope explained. However, he added, those who resort to gossiping and “the logic of insults” live “like a pagan with a spirit of worldliness” that seeks to destroy others.

“Among us is the great accuser, the one who will always accuse us in front of God to destroy us: Satan. He is the great accuser. And when I enter into this logic of accusing, cursing and looking to do evil to others, I enter into the logic of the great accuser who is a destroyer, who doesn’t know the word ‘mercy,’” the Pope said. Pope Francis said that instead

‘Only the merciful resemble God the Father.’ – Pope Francis

of destroying others, Christians must look at themselves and accuse themselves so that they may reflect God’s mercy upon others. “Yes, accuse yourself. It will do you good. The only licit accusation that we Christians have is to accuse ourselves. For others, there is only mercy because we are children of the Father who is merciful,” the Pope said. n CNS

18 OPINION

Sunday September 30, 2018 n CatholicNews

On being the beloved disciple

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REFLECTION

God works miracles for all of us daily Photo: VITA Images

Msgr Philip Heng, SJ God is working “miracles” every day in our lives, but we cannot presume that all of us are in tune with these “miracles”. This is so because we are often too caught up in our own daily work, projects, concerns, busyness and hectic life that we relate to God as though He is only of secondary importance to us. Have we not heard of mothers who do not send their children for catechism classes because of tuition for PSLE examinations? If God is of secondary importance to us, then in our living, He is present to us only in the background of what happens to us, and we go to Him only when we are in need, and are faced with pains, trials and crises of our lives. This means that even as God is working so many “miracles” in our lives daily, we will take them as ordinary happenings, and use phrases like, “We are so lucky to get the job or lucky we were not injured during an accident and the like.” If we are honest with ourselves, and are able to reflect more deeply on our lives, we will realise that a superficial faith not only robs us of the true peace and meaning in life, because such faith will lead us to give in to the temptations of the gratification, glamour and glory of the secular world, even though they are passing contentments. If this is true of our lives, then we can be sure that our daily life’s experiences would primarily be one of emptiness, anxieties and constant worries with no solutions in sight. Clearly, this is because the source and cause of such negative experiences come from our preoccupation and over reliance on our own finite will, ways and capacity to provide for our lives, instead of relying on God’s providence, love and care. The fundamental question that you and I need to be more fully conscious of today is, “Am I living my life in the deep faith of being united to God’s presence or am I living

Am I living my life in the deep faith of being united to God’s presence? my life as though I am in control of everything that goes on in my life?” If we live our daily lives in the deep and personal union with God’s presence, our deep faith can give us a peace where we strongly believe that our lives are in the hands of God who cares for us. A friend of mine, let us call her Stephanie, not her real name, told me, “Father, when I was being wheeled into the operating theatre, my family was in tears because they love me so much. However, there was a deeper peace in my heart. I knew that I was in God’s hands. Indeed, I was very blessed to have the gift of a divine peace of not so much whether the procedure would go well or not, but that I was able to surrender my whole life to God.” In contrast, we have believers who assert, “I am in control of my life.” Whatever the reasons for their assertion, whether they see themselves as self-made successful persons in their careers, or

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strong willed and strong minded persons who have weathered the great storms of life and are still holding their heads high, the day will surely come where our human strength and will, will give way to the reality that we can no longer be in “control” of our lives. So, let us live in the greater consciousness and gratitude to God for His caring and compassionate Love, where He never fails to work “miracles” for us daily. The greater our consciousness and the deeper our gratitude to God, the more discerning we become in our relationship with Jesus. When we are able to live in such discerning ways, our life would be lived in the deep peace, joy and strength of Jesus. Living in such personal presence of Jesus is to live the most fulfilling life that nothing and no person can give; only God, in Jesus through the Holy Spirit can give us. n Msgr Heng is Rector of the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd.

THE Gospel of John presents us with a very powerful and rather earthy mystical image: As John describes the Last Supper scene, he tells us that as they were at table, the beloved disciple was reclining with his head against Jesus’ breast. The power of that image has, I believe, been better captured by artists than by theologians and biblical scholars. Artists and iconographers generally present the image to us in this way: The beloved disciple has his head leaning on Jesus’ breast in such a way that his ear is directly above Jesus’ heart but in such a way that his eyes are fixed outward looking at the world. What a powerful image! If you put your ear at just the right place on someone’s chest you can hear that person’s heartbeat. The beloved disciple then is the one who is attuned to the heartbeat of God and is looking out at the world from that vintage point. Further, John gives us a series of other images to flesh out the implications of hearing God’s heartbeat. First, the beloved disciple stands with Jesus’ mother at the foot of the cross as Jesus is dying. What’s encapsulated in this image? In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus admits that sometimes darkness seems to overpower grace and God seems powerless: Sometimes darkness just has its hour! His death was one of those hours and the beloved disciple, like Jesus’ mother, could do nothing other than stand in helplessness inside and beneath that darkness and injustice. There was nothing to be done but to stand inside the helplessness. But, by standing there, the beloved disciple also stands in solidarity with the millions of poor and victimised all over the world who can do nothing against their plight. When one stands in helplessness when there’s nothing possible to be done, one gives silent voice to human finitude, the deepest prayer possible at that moment. Then, afterwards, the beloved disciple takes the mother of Jesus into his home, an image that doesn’t need much elaboration. However, a second image connected with the beloved disciple leaning on Jesus’ breast does need some elaboration: As the beloved disciple reclines on the breast of Jesus, an interesting dialogue takes place: Jesus tells His disciples that one of them will betray Him. Peter turns to the beloved disciple and says to him: “Ask Him who it is?” This begs the question: Why doesn’t Peter himself ask Jesus who it is who will betray Him? Peter would not have been sitting so far away from Jesus as to not be able to ask the question himself. Moreover, Peter’s question takes on its real significance when seen in its historical context. Scholars estimate that the Gospel of John was written somewhere between the years 90-100 AD. By then Peter had been Pope and had been martyred. What the Gospel is suggesting here is that intimacy with Jesus trumps everything else, including ecclesial office, including being Pope. Everyone’s prayer has to go through the beloved disciple. The Pope cannot pray as Pope but only pray as the beloved disciple (which, like any other Christian, he can be). He can offer prayers for the world and for the church as Pope, but he can pray personally only as beloved disciple. Finally, the notion in the Gospel of John that intimacy with Jesus is more important than the ecclesial office is further illustrated on the morning of the Resurrection. Mary Magdalene comes running from the tomb and tells the disciples that the tomb is empty. Peter and the beloved disciple set off at once, running towards the tomb. We can easily guess who will arrive there first. The beloved disciple easily outruns Peter, not because he’s perhaps a younger man but because love outruns authority. The Pope can also get there first, if he runs as the beloved disciple rather than as a pope. It is commonly assumed that the beloved disciple was the Evangelist himself, John. That may in fact be correct, but that is not what the Gospel text wants you to conclude. The historical identity of the beloved disciple is deliberately left an open question because the Gospel wants that concept – to be the beloved disciple of Jesus -- to be a designation that beckons and fits you and beckons and fits every Christian in the world, including the Pope himself. Who is the beloved disciple? The beloved disciple is any person, woman, man or child who is intimate enough with Jesus so as to be attuned to the heartbeat of God and who then sees the world from that place of intimacy, prays from that place of intimacy, and sets off in love to seek the Risen Lord and grasp the meaning of His empty tomb. n

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REFLECTION 19

Sunday September 30, 2018 n CatholicNews

To look but not see; hear but not listen Photo: FREE BIBLE IMAGES

Brett Robinson The bread becomes the body of Christ. The wine becomes the blood of Christ. To think and believe like a Catholic, one is called upon to make some extraordinary observations. Despite the best efforts of our natural senses to move beyond the physical world, it is our metaphysical perception that ultimately helps us to see and taste Our Lord in the Eucharist. Jesus taught us how to do this when He shared the parables, short stories about everyday things that pointed to something eternal. Weaving together images of nature, He revealed something about the supernatural reality of life in God. When asked why He used parables, he said: “Because ‘they look but do not see and hear but do not listen or understand’. Isaiah’s prophecy is fulfilled in them, which says: You shall indeed hear but not under-

stand, you shall indeed look but never see.” In an “overmediated” society, the risk of looking and not seeing or hearing but not understanding grows. Our senses fail us because they are overloaded or they are so

conditioned by the over-stimulation that they lack the ability to be still and receptive. If there is one parable that captures our plight in the media age, it is the parable of the sower. Consider the first character in

the story, the sower. To sow is to broadcast. The term “broadcasting” comes from agriculture to refer to someone who throws seeds, casting broadly. The seeds fall all over the place. It seems that the broadcaster couldn’t care less where his seeds fall. Many of the seeds fall on rocks and others among thorns. Not only that, the farmer fails to pass over the field again to drive the seeds deeper into the soil where they can take root. But God does not coerce us into receiving His word; it is a free choice. And it is a matter of our willingness to receive. Who are we in the story? The ground. The primaeval material that made our first parents, Adam and Eve: the earth. To pursue the media analogy a little further, we are called to improve our reception. Just as a radio receives a signal by being properly tuned, our hearts must be tuned to Christ. In His word, God speaks to

the interior senses, particularly the imagination. That is where the images of the seed and field are brought into contact with our memories, thoughts and longings. Our longing for God is ineffable. It is hard to put into words. But when we hear the simple but beautiful story of a seed falling to the ground, dying and taking root to bear fruit a hundredfold, we are reminded of Christ, the Word made flesh, dying for us and taking root in our souls to bear his love to the world. For Catholics, the imagination is not merely a place for fantasy and escape. It is the place where we integrate the things we know of the natural world with spiritual truth, but like the media that surround us, we must be properly attuned. n Robinson is director of communications and Catholic media studies at the University of Notre Dame McGrath Institute for Church Life in Indiana, USA.

20 WHAT’S ON

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Compile d by Jared Ng and C hristo pher Wo ng

Oct 6 Mass Followed by Prayers for Healing Time: 2pm-4pm. Venue: Church of Sts Peter and Paul. All are welcome and no registration is needed. You are invited to join us for praise and worship and Mass followed by prayers for healing. After Mass, prayer teams will be available to pray with you for healing. Please spread the word to your family and friends. Celebrant: Fr Tom Curran. Organised by Praise@Work. For more information, E: praiseatworksg@yahoo.com; T: 9747 2467.

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.

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 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.

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, SG, Br John Albert, SG. Cost: $130 (twin/sharing). For more information, E: enquiries@montfortcentre.org; T: 6769 5711.

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.

M No Lif M th It in Th ho Fo Fo W

An Ti A, al Th If in na Fo W

M Th fo It as sp E:

Oct 19 to 21

Pr Ti Ve A wi wi

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

in the Archdiocese

Death of a Catholic

Deaths and funerals are often a time of distress for families. Making funeral arrangements under these circumstances can be challenging especially with the need to coordinate multiple issues.

The family or funeral director must secure parish venue and priest first before booking the crematorium

Funeral Is it parish of the deceased?

The Archdiocese of Singapore, in helping to streamline the process for families of the deceased, has outlined the broad principles to assist the bereaved.

1 2

As a principle the funeral is normally arranged at the parish of the deceased.

The parish of the deceased is determined by the parish that he/she normally had been attending for their Masses and liturgical services.

The parish secretary will assist in sourcing a priest of the parish or another priest for the families to conduct the funeral rites.

For all other logistics in relation to the funeral day and rites, it will then be directed to the parish that will be conducting the funeral.

Before arranging a time or day of funeral and cremation, do contact the parish concerned to determine the availability of a priest.

7 8 9

In the case of dispute, the territorial parish will assume responsibility for the funeral.

In the event that the parish that was contacted is not the parish of the deceased, it would be the duty of the secretary to forward the information to the relevant parish and inform the families concerned.

Oct 26 to Oct 28

Oct 18

Guide for Funerals

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.

If the parish venue is not available, the parish should arrange for an alternative venue. In exceptional cases, the Mass for the funeral can be held at the venue of the wake.

Family contacts parish of the deceased

The parish of the deceased is determined by the parish that he/she normally had been attending for their Masses and liturgical services

Parish office contacts correct parish of the deceased

In the case of dispu will assume respo

WHAT’S ON 21

Sunday September 30, 2018 n CatholicNews

Nov 3 and Nov 10

healing in prayer and grow in the spiritual life. Conducted by Fr Andrew Wong and Catholic Spirituality Centre Retreat Team. Registration opens on Oct 5. Cost: $120. For more information, T: 6288 7901; W: http://www.csctr.net/.

My Child is Made for More Nov 3: 9am-1.30pm. Nov 10: 9am-4.30pm. Venue: Lifelong Learning Institute, 11 Eunos Road 8, S408601. My Child is Made for More will enable you to be the primary sexuality educator of your child. It addresses the sexuality issues facing your child, including pornography, pre-marital and casual sex. The approach is to focus on dignity, respect, sexual honesty and authentic freedom, not consequences. For tickets: T: 6488 0278 (Look for Hershey/Sophia). For more information, W: education@familylife.sg; W: madeformore.peatix.com

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/.

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 16 to Nov 18 Prayer Experience Retreat #25 Time: Nov 16 (8.30am)-Nov 18 (6pm). Venue: Catholic Spirituality Centre. A semi silent retreat where you will learn to connect with God in prayer, listen to Him, communicate with Him through journaling and meditation, receive

Nov 18 to Nov 24

“A Life Surprised By ... ” – A Retreat for Young Adults Time: 9am-5pm. Venue: Verbum Dei Singapore (4 Sommerville Road S358228). Come, and let Him surprise you! “A Life Surprised By ...” is a one-day retreat for young adults aged 20-40 years old organised by the Verbum Dei missionaries and disciples. Cost: $50 per adult (includes tea and lunch). To register: W: tinyurl.com/alifesurprisedby. For more information, T: 6274 0251; E: Vdeisgevents@gmail.com.

Nov 17 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.

Funeral Arrangement Policy in Singapore Based on Senate Communication, May 2018

s it parish of he deceased?

Is parish venue availabe?

Is priest available?

Priest negotiates date and time of funeral with the family

Parish ffice contacts orrect parish the deceased

Parish office looks for another venue

Parish office looks for another priest

The logistics will be arranged by the parish where the funeral is held

the case of dispute, the territorial parish will assume responsibility for the funeral

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/announcement-advertisement-request/. Once forms have been submitted online, kindly send us details of your event for publication at www.catholicnews.sg/whatson/ at least one month ahead of the publication date.

T: 6344 0929 (school hours). Per head: $150. Per table: $1,380. Extra costs apply for specially requested halal food.

Nov 17

Nov 10 commencing

EVENT SUBMISSIONS

For more clarification or information, please contact your parish priest.

Week of Guided Prayer @ Church of the Holy Cross The Sojourners’ Companions invites you to learn how to pray with Scripture and develop a closer relationship with the Lord. Taster on Nov 18 from 2pm-5pm. Nov 19-23: daily 30mins at home and 30mins with personal prayer guide at the church, at a convenient time between 9am-10pm. Closing on Nov 24 from 2pm-5pm. To register: W: www.sojourners.sg; E: wogp@sojourners.sg. Registration is also available on Nov 10 and 11 at the church foyer or parish office after Mass. Cost: $30.

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.

22 IN MEMORIAM

Sunday September 30, 2018 n CatholicNews

Twenty-fifth Anniversary In cherished memory of

First Anniversary In loving memory of

IRENE LOW GECK MUI Departed: Sep 21, 1993 Remembered by family and friends.

ELMO HERBERT BRIAN JAMES Departed: Sep 30, 2017

Psalms 118:1

“O give thanks to the Lord, for He is good; His steadfast love endures for ever!”.

Ninth Anniversary In loving memory of

Sun

His helping hands was always first To tender any aid he could His voice was always raised in praise, His words were wise and good. Dear Dad/Gransie, since you went away, The ones you loved so true, Try hard to carry on the way We know you’d want us to... Lovingly remembered by Wife, Maureen, son, Ian, daughter-in-law, Roszy and grandchildren, Bill, Alyssya and Kyle, daughter, Michele, son-in-law, Bob Seth and grandchildren, Galissa & Ashwyn, relatives and friends. First Anniversary In loving memory of

In loving memory of

Ninth Anniversary In loving memory of

In loving memory of our dear parents / grandparents Joined in holy matrimony 1 October 1955

MARIA TAN AH LEAH Departed: September 23, 2008

FREDDY FERNANDEZ Departed: Sep 23, 2009 In silence he suffered with patience he bore Till God took him home To be with him to suffer no more. Years gone by since you left us Memories are treasures That’s a memory fond and true A token of love and affection A heartache still for you And a longing to meet you in Heaven.

Rest in peace, dear loving Mother. Ten long years have passed, in our hearts you will always live. Your love, your voice & your smile are forever imprinted in our minds. GABRIEL & THERESA LOURDES Departed 29 January 2017 31 March 2000

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. Fondly remembered by loved ones. Fourteenth Anniversary In loving memory of

THANKSGIVING O Holy St Jude, apostle and martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracles, near kinsman of Jesus Christ, faithful intercessor of all who invoke your special patronage in time of need. To you I have recourse from the depth of my heart and humbly beg you, to whom God has given such great power, to come to my assistance. Help me in my present urgent petition. In return, I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoked. St Jude, pray for me and all who invoke your aid. Humbly in need of your intercession. Amen. Thank you for answering my prayers.

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Grateful thanks to holy apostle St Jude Thaddeus for prayers answered once again. Also heartfelt thanks

to our Father, Jesus Christ, Holy Spirit, Sacred Heart of Jesus, Infant Jesus of Prague, Divine Mercy, Mother Mary, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Our Lady of Lourdes, Sts Joseph, Anthony, Jude, Gerard and all the Holy Angels and Saints for their intercessions, miracles, protection and prayers answered during the most difficult times. Please continue to bless, protect, guide and intercede for me and my family.

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Apostle, St Jude and Martyr, great in virtue and rich in miracle, near kinsman faithful and intercessor of all who invoke your special need in thee. I humbly beg and assist me in my present urgent petition. I promise to make your name known and cause you to be invoke. Amen. Aida

CECIL GOMEZ Departed: Sep 29, 1997 SHAWN RAJKUMAR Remembering Departed: Sep 25, 2004 you is easy Your loving We do it every day memories will Missing you is the remain forever fresh. hardest part Fondly remembered As it never goes away by our loving family, To hear your voice. godchildren, To see your smile relatives and friends. To sit with you and talk for awhile would Eighth Anniversary be our greatest wish In loving memory of Today, tomorrow, our whole life through We shall always love and remember you. Always cherished by wife, son and all loved ones.

LEWIS MARCEL THEXEIRA Born: Nov 19, 1929 Departed: Sept 28, 2010 God gave us the strength to bear it And courage to fight the blow What it has meant to lose you God alone will ever know. Rita Thexeira and loved ones.

Deeply missed and fondly remembered by family and loved ones.

ELMO HERBERT BRIAN JAMES Departed: Sep 30, 2017 We speak your name with love and pride We smile with tears we cannot hide We thank you for the years we shared The love you gave, the way you cared. Lovingly remembered Maureen, Michele and Bob Ian and Roszy, Galissa, Aslwyn, Bill Alyssya and Kyle

Dearly missed & always remembered by family & loved ones. 50th ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of

Thirteenth Anniversary In loving memory of

Twenty-first Anniversary With fond memories of

Dearly loved and missed by wife, children, grandson and all loved ones.

CLASSIFIED

MR JEROME RAJU Age : 79 Date departed : Oct 4, 2009 Your presence is ever near us Your love remains with us yet You were the kind father Your loved ones will never forget.

In memoriam rates: Minimum $80 for an insertion not exceeding an eight-centimetre column. Additional space: $8 per onecentimetre column. –––––––––––––––– Classified advertisement rates: Minimum S$40 for the first 25 words. Additional words: $1.00 a word.

VINCENT GOH TONG LIANG (TIA TIA) Born: Oct 12, 1895 Departed: Oct 6, 1968 Eternal rest grant unto him, O Lord And let perpetual light shine upon him. May he rest in peace. Amen. Fondly remembered by family and loved ones.

JOHN GIBSON Departed: Oct 3, 2005

Quickly and quietly came the call, Your sudden departure shocked us all We who have lost can tell, the loss of our loved ones with a farewell, but still do we grieve, though days have gone by, that you parted from us without a goodbye.

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Sadly missed by your loving wife, children, in-laws and grandchildren.

In loving memory of our beloved parents First Anniversary

Eighth Anniversary

VIOLET TAN GEORGE YEO CHOR QUEE KHIM KOK Departed: Sept 23, 2017 Nov 17, 2010.

We think of you in silence No eyes can see us weep But still within our aching hearts Your memory we keep. Dearly missed and fondly remembered by loved ones.

C W

IN MEMORIAM 23

Sunday September 30, 2018 n CatholicNews

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Seventh Anniversary In loving memory of

In loving memory of

PAUL CHANG TONG HIANG Departed: Oct 3, 2011 Seven years has gone by, but there has not been a single moment where you have not been greatly missed. Seven years ago you physically left us, but you have constantly been in our thoughts and prayers, and will forever be in our hearts. Your presence, your laughter, your incessant support in whatever we choose to do, and your unconditional love are just a few things of the many that are now absent in our lives. Looking forward to the day when we are all united in heaven. Until then, may you rest in peace and keep a watchful eye over us from above. Deeply missed and forever cherished by your loving Wife: Helen, Children: Deana & Steven, Benedict & Magdalene, Grandchildren: Ivan & Justin, Dominic & Emmanuel & Maximus.

CAPT. RET. RONALD MICHAEL GONZALES (SPEEDY) Age: 74 Ex RAF, RSAF, passed away peacefully in Melbourne, Australia on Aug 11, 2018 Sadly missed by wife Tess, son, daughter, daughter-in-law, grandchildren, relatives and friends in Australia, Singapore and UK. Rest in peace. Seventh Anniversary In loving memory of

In loving memory of our parents

JOSEPH PATRICIA FERNANDEZ FERNANDEZ Departed: Sept 30, 2007 July 10, 2018.

Dear Mom and Dad We are happy that the two of you are finally re-united. We want to thank you for being there for us all these years. God made no mistake by giving us both of you as our parents. We have two family saints now. Continue to pray and intercede for us ok? We love you so much and miss you load. Cherished by children and families. Mass will be offered up for mom and dad at the Church of St Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on Sunday Sept 30, 2018 at 10am.

SECOND ANNIVERSARY In loving memory of

FREDDIE FRANCIS TAN Age: 82 Departed: Sep 22, 2016 The angels came to take you home And you left us all alone We know you keep watching us from above As we still pray for the one we love. Dearly missed by loved ones. Wife: Molly Sim Soon Im Son: Benedict Tan Daughter: Audrey Tan Son-in-law: Ricardo Ortega Grandsons: Mark, Luke & John Ortega

MAYAH MERVYN DOUGLAS Departed: Sep 27, 2011 Your life was a blessing, Your memory a treasure You are loved beyond words And missed beyond measure. Always remembered by wife, daughters, son-in-law and grand-daughters and all loved ones.

Sunday September 30, 2018 n CatholicNews

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