Catholic News issue 24, 2016 by CatholicNews

SUNDAY NOVEMBER 27, 2016

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Fundraising exercise to fuel archdiocese’s growth On Nov 26 and 27 this year, the first weekend of Advent, the Catholic Church in Singapore will be embarking on a large-scale fundraising exercise to fuel its pastoral vision to be a more vibrant, missionary and evangelistic Church. The Giving in Faith & Thankfulness (GIFT) campaign challenges every Catholic in Singapore to pray, volunteer, and pledge a monthly monetary contribution to the archdiocese. Headed by the Catholic Foundation, the fundraising arm of the archdiocese, the campaign will be instrumental in the Church’s plans to expand and increase its programmes, as well as improve its physical infrastructure. “The Church’s present funding model has become inadequate to meet its growing needs, and urgently requires a more sustainable source of funds,” said Msgr Philip Heng, the Vicar General of Administration and Finance. The main source of finance for the archdiocese has traditionally been 15 percent of collections during weekend Masses at each of its 31 parishes. But in 2015, the needs of the archdiocese outgrew its funding and resulted in an operating deficit of $2 million, according to Msgr Heng. The deficit is evidence that the Church requires more funds to grow towards its vision, first introduced in 2013 as a response to Pope Francis’ call for a renewal of the Catholic Church’s mission worldwide. “The world must see that what we do is not simply the work of a human institution, but the marvellous work of God through poor and inadequate instruments like us,” Archbishop William Goh said. “This is why the GIFT campaign is really more than just about fundraising. It is a spiritual rejuvenation of our Church’s mission, and a revitalisation of our work for the benefit of all of society,” Archbishop Goh added. A shortfall of $238.1 million is projected in the archdiocese over the next seven years. Financial resources are needed to fund the work of numerous Catholic groups, commissions, councils, offices and other organisations in the archdiocese. On top of that, several infrastructural projects are also straining the archdiocese’s financial reserves.

Notable organisations include the Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic Schools, Archdiocesan Commission for the Family, Office for the New Evangelisation, and the Office for Young People, amongst others. Under the pastoral vision, these organisations

The Giving in Faith & Thankfulness (GIFT) campaign challenges Catholics to pray, volunteer, and pledge a monthly monetary contribution to the archdiocese. have already begun expanding their programmes and finding new ways to work with one another. Through these efforts, more people will be able to benefit from better programmes and initiatives of Catholic organisations in Singapore. Alongside an increase in programmes, building projects have been initiated to facili-

tate the Church’s growth. This includes a new seminary and formation centre, a residence for retired priests, and a centre for the archdiocese’s activities. Construction of the seminary and formation building started on Oct 26, 2016. When completed in an estimated one and a half years, it will provide the Church with new and better facilities to form its future priests, as well as lay faithful. Bethany East, a residence for retired priests, will help address an expected increase in the number of aged priests in the near future. Renovation of a residential property in Changi to serve as Bethany East is expected to begin in January next year, and estimated to take a year to complete. In a bid to optimise land usage, a plot of land on Upper Thomson Road is also planned to be redeveloped as a centre for the archdiocese’s activities. The Archdiocesan Centre will be crucial in providing larger and more appropriate facilities for the increasing number of programmes of Catholic organisations in Singapore. Another initiative to improve the Church’s infrastructure involves the creation of sinking funds for the renewal of land leases and ageing properties of the archdiocese. “The Church in Singapore has grown over the years through the work of many Catholics. This has allowed the Church to benefit not just our Catholic community, but the wider society. It is up to today’s generation to continue to build up the Church for the good of many, for generations to come,” said Mr Kwek Mean Luck, chairperson of the Catholic Foundation. “In our life on earth, we are merely stewards of our time, families, wealth and all blessings. Let us be aware and thankful of what God has given us, and always seek to bless others with what the Almighty has blessed us with. I have confidence that all of you will step up to help us realise this dream for the Church, our nation and humanity. Jesus needs you to build His Church. Come follow Him!” said Archbishop Goh. n Submitted by CATHOLIC FOUNDATION n See Pages I-VIII: A Rallying Call To Build The Church Of Tomorrow

VOL 66

NO. 24

INSIDE HOME

David Haas’ two concerts An uplifting experience for audience n Page 7

Young M’sian, S’pore priests gather for fellowship They visit Catholic organisations and Universal Studios n Page 10

WORLD

Jubilee for homeless people Pope meets them in special audience n Page 14

POPE FRANCIS Pontiff visits former priests Last of his ‘Mercy Friday’ initiative n Page 15

ADVENT FEATURE Prepare ye the way…

Spiritual preparations for the season n Page 17

YEAR OF MERCY S’pore parishes get involved

From making pilgrimages to serving poor n Pages 18 – 19

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Helping islanders get clean water A S’pore team provided technical know-how to typhoon-hit Romblon in the Philippines By Stephanie Seet Ten volunteers from Singapore spent about a week in central Philippines helping people there get access to quality drinking water. The Oct 23-30 mission trip to Romblon was organised by CHARIS, the overseas humanitarian arm of the Singapore Church; and acts29, a Singapore Church youth organisation involved in evangelisation through mission and dialogue. The Singapore team helped to train Filipino youths under acts29’s scholarship programme, staff of Romblon diocese’s social action organisation, local Caritas scholars and the local community in building a bio-sand water filtration system. In recent years, rising sea levels and frequent typhoons in the Philippines have destroyed many island communities, including those in Romblon, which was severely hit by Typhoon Haiyan in 2013. Because of its remote location, the full extent of the damage inflicted by the storm evaded media attention. This resulted in delayed aid efforts to the islanders and a major issue was the lack of safe drinking water facilities in the Romblon

CHARIS volunteer Joseph Chong training the local community chief on how to assemble the pipe components for the bio-sand tank.

CHARIS volunteers washing sand and gravel with the local community.

archipelago. This issue would be exacerbated in times of calamities and natural disasters as there would be contamination. During the recent mission trip, the Singapore team, together with the acts29 and local Caritas scholars collaborated to train the local community of Agnipa in building bio-sand water filtration tanks. This included washing gravel and sand, integral components of the filtration system. The local community also learned how to assem-

optimism that such a joint effort in building the water filtration tanks and transferring of know-how will enable the filtration systems to be replicated across neighbouring islands in the province. Besides providing clean drinking water at low cost, the systems also offer a sustainable local source of potable water, especially in times of calamities. A Filipino participant, Mr John Mark Narada, likened the bio-sand filtration process to the parable of

ble the bio-sand tank using PVC piping for the large filtration tank. Fr Ricardo Magro III, director of the Diocesan Social Action Centre for Romblon, expressed

The director of the Diocesan Social Action Centre for Romblon, expressed optimism that the technology could be replicated across neighbouring islands.

the mustard seed, adding that the humble sand-washing efforts by a small group of individuals would culminate in potable water for the larger community. Between 2015 and 2016, CHARIS helped to build three similar filtration systems in Sri Lanka and Bogo City in the Philippines. CHARIS has also co-funded the building of an evacuation centre on Romblon Island. This centre can shelter about 200 people during a typhoon. n

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Archbishop Emeritus Nicholas Chia lovingly surrounded by K2 kids from Catholic Kindergarten.

Children and St Theresa’s Home residents playing the ‘parachute’ game. The aim of the game is to prevent the ball from falling into a hole in the centre of the nylon sheet.

Kindergarten kids visit elderly home Children from Catholic Kindergarten in Flower Road visited residents of St Theresa’s Home to learn the importance of caring for the elderly, especially those living with them at home. A total of 86 K2 kids, accompanied by teachers and some parents, made the visits over two days on Nov 2 and 3. Different kids visited the home on each day. They had the opportunity to meet Archbishop Emeritus Nicho-

las Chia, a resident at the home. He expressed his joy at seeing the children happily singing and interacting with the residents. Some of the activities the children did during the visits included singing hymns and songs, performing dances and playing games with the residents. The game the residents enjoyed most was Bingo (played without money). They could relate easily to the numbers being

called and shouted out in joy each time they had a winning number. Another popular game was the “parachute” game where a wide nylon sheet with a hole in the centre was held by the residents and children. The aim of the game was to prevent a ball from falling into the hole, which proved to be a good test of cohesion between the residents and their young visitors. As a present to the residents, the kids prepared gift-wrapped towels

and lotions. Grocery items such as Milo and biscuits were donated by parents while monetary donations were made by the teachers. Kristel Lam, 6, said, “Making the old folks happy makes me happy!” Her mother, Mrs Celine Lam said the visit “is a reminder for me to teach my children to think of one thing they can do to make their grandparents happy each time they visit them.” Ms Edna Ng, principal of

Catholic Kindergarten, expressed her gratitude to the management, staff and residents of the home. “Allowing our children the opportunity to interact with the elderly residents is an experience that cannot be taught in the classroom,” she said. Since 2013, children from Catholic Kindergarten have made visits to other elderly homes such as the Miriam Home for the Aged in Kluang, Johor. n

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Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

CHANCERY NOTICE

7 November 2016

CHN/CN/20 16/023

APPOINTMENTS 1. The following have been appointed members of the Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic Schools for a term of two [2] years with effect from 20 October 2016: a. Fr Adrian Danker SJ b. Mr Gerard Lee How Cheng c. Mr Kenneth Tan 2. The following have been reappointed to undertake a feasibility study on the redevelopment of St Joseph’s Church (Victoria Street) for a term of two [2] years with effect from 1 November 2016: a. Dr James Boss b. Mr Michael Khoo

Agreement signed with UK institute on catechesis course

OTHER MATTERS Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic Schools

An updated and amended set of Statutes for the Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic Schools (ACCS) has been approved by Archbishop William Goh DD on 27 October 2016. Chrism Mass of Holy Thursday 2017

The Chrism Mass of Holy Thursday 2017 which falls on 13 April 2017 will be held at the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd. Further details will be released at a later date. Installation of new parish priests for 23 April 2017

In accordance with can. 527 §2, the installation of new parish priests has been dispensed in light of the number of new parish priests assuming office on 23 April 2017. However, the Profession of Faith and the Oath of Fidelity as required of Parish Priests in accordance with can. 833 6° will be administered at the Chrism Mass of Holy Thursday, 13 April 2017. Order of Friars Minor

Fr John Wong OFM has been reappointed as Custos of the Franciscan Custody of St Anthony (Malaysia-Singapore-Brunei) for a term of three [3] years with effect from October 2016.

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

Maryvale Institute director Fr Edward Clare (centre) and Vicar General (Pastoral) Ambrose Vaz sign the agreement as Maryvale’s director of Further Education Programmes, Dr Marie Cooke, looks on.

The Singapore archdiocese has signed an agreement with Maryvale Institute in the UK to provide its distance-learning Certificate in Catechesis for catechists in the archdiocese. Vicar General (Pastoral) Msgr

Ambrose Vaz signed the agree- Catechesis (OfC), is a two-year ment at a ceremony on Nov 4 at training programme which inthe Office for Catechesis. Mary- cludes the Maryvale Certificate, vale Institute was represented the Basic Catechist Certification, by its director, Fr Edward Clare, Catechesis of the Good Shepherd as well as its director of Further courses as well as supervised Education Programmes Dr Marie practicum in parishes and at OfC Cooke. events. Maryvale Institute, based in ACTP trainees are sponsored Birmingham, is an international by the Catholic Foundation and Catholic college with an outstand- upon completing the ACTP, they ing reputation in catechesis and is will serve the archdiocese by asrecognised by the Congregation sisting OFC in conducting catefor Catholic Education as an in- chetical training and programmes stitute approved to award eccle- across Singapore. siastical degrees The day after through its affilithe signing cerThe distanceation to a Cathoemony, the first lic faculty of learning Certificate two study days theology. The inwere conducted in Catechesis stitute is based in by Fr Edward and a historic Catholic Dr Cooke for the is part of the centre which was inaugural batch of requirements for once the home 19 ACTP trainees of Blessed John those undergoing who come from Henry Newman. various parishes. training to be In Singapore, “I am very exstudents will cited to be able Archdiocesan study each modto study again to Catechetical ule of the Certifideepen my faith,” Trainers. cate in Catechesis said Ms Merlyn on their own and D’Cruz, Catechesubmit written assis of the Good signments. In addition, Maryvale Shepherd (CGS) coordinator at lecturers will fly into Singapore Blessed Sacrament Church. On for four study days each academic why she decided to sign up for year for students to discuss ses- the ACTP: “This will help me sions and gain additional insights become a better catechist not just from seminars. in CGS but also in doing parent The Certificate in Catechesis formation and everything else I is part of the requirements for do.” candidates undergoing training For more information on the to be Archdiocesan Catechetical Archdiocesan Catechetical TrainTrainers. ers’ Programme, email wendy@ The Archdiocesan Catecheti- catechesis.org.sg. For more inforcal Trainers’ Programme (ACTP), mation on Maryvale Institute, visit administered by the Office for www.maryvale.ac.uk. n

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Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

Lasallians celebrate canonisation

Above: La Salle Brothers pose with a statue of St Solomon Leclercq at the celebration on Nov 5. From left: Brs Kelvin, Gregory, Ignaci, Collin, Kenneth and Larry. Right: The thanksgiving Mass at St Patrick’s School chapel.

The Lasallian family in Singapore celebrated the canonisation of La Salle Brother, St Solomon Leclercq, at St Patrick’s School chapel on Nov 5. St Solomon, a martyr of the French Revolution (1789-1799), was among the many bishops, priests, Religious and Catholic faithful who died for the faith during this period. He was canonised in Rome on Oct 16. In St Patrick’s School chapel, a thanksgiving Mass was celebrated by Fr Valerian Cheong, and concelebrated by Fr Edward Seah, Dominican Fr Antonio Gonzalez,

and Redemptorist Frs Peter Wee and Clement Lee. In his homily, Fr Valerian reminded those present – La Salle Brothers, other Religious and laypeople – that no matter how hard life can be, one can always testify to the Risen Lord like St Solomon. He added that St Solomon did not allow the political influence of his time to get the better of him but stood by his faith in God. In the celebration, the Lasallian family also remembered those who have been called to the Lord this year, including their loved ones, teachers and students. n

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Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

Newly-wed couples attend the Knowing Me Knowing You workshop at the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour.

Newly-weds learn about ‘love languages’ Nineteen relatively newly-wed couples learnt how to deepen intimacy in their marriage and their understanding of one another during a recent parish workshop. The couples, who have been married for between three months to about two years, attended the workshop titled Knowing Me Knowing You – Growing in Intimacy, at the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour (OLPS) on Nov 5. The idea for such a workshop arose when a couple “asked what workshops the church could hold for newly married couples,” said Ms Shelley Ee from the OLPS Family Life Ministry. The ministry decided to organise the half day workshop – which aims to help participants gain intimate knowledge of themselves

and their spouse – in collaboration with Marriage Encounter. During the event, participants learnt about focusing on the good qualities of their spouse, know-

The workshop helped participants focus on their spouse’s good qualities, know each other’s ‘love languages’ and manage sensitive topics in their marriage. ing their own “love languages” as well as those of their spouse, and how to manage sensitive topics in their marriage. Participants also composed a

prayer for their marriage and renewed their marriage vows. Willard and Miranda Tan, who have been married for two years, commented that they found the workshop “very fruitful”. They added that it gave them “deeper thoughts and reflections”, and helped to enrich their marriage. Andrew and Sara Wong, who have been also been married for two years, said they liked the tools the workshop provided which helped them to understand each other better. Ms Phillis Wong, a member of the OLPS Family Ministry team, shared, “After witnessing the impact that the workshop had on the couples, I realised that there is a real need to reach out to more newly married couples in our parish.” n

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Composer’s music moves audience David Haas recent concerts were a spiritual experience, says Anthony Siow

Liturgical music composer David Haas at his concert in Church of Divine Mercy.

Three-quarters into his first con- years ago, he was ready to return cert in Singapore, David Haas had home from the hospital when he the audience singing and swaying suddenly fainted. He was to suffer two more atto the music. The American liturgical music composer was lead- tacks in the hours that followed. ing the crowd in an African Zulu Reflecting on how circumstances song entitled Jikelele, which would have taken a dire turn had he in fact gone home, Haas wrote means “God is everywhere”. One may not have heard of The God of Second Chances in Jikelele, but many would have gratitude to “the God who doesn’t heard and sung Blest Are They, give up on us”. In another song, Deep Within, We Will Rise Again and You are Mine – all of which featured Haas suggested that if we canin two recent concerts here by not find Christ in one another, we won’t find him in the bread and Haas. The audience certainly en- wine. Through 20 songs, personal joyed a spiritual experience during the concerts held at the Church anecdotes and several digs at lecof Divine Mercy on Nov 4 and tors, music ministers and altar Church of St Vincent de Paul on boys, Haas helped the audience to pray through muNov 5. Ably supportsic. ing him were choirs Through 20 Mr Stephen Lee, from these two parsongs and 60, said he felt that ishes and another Haas “is a contemfrom the Church of personal porary Christian St Mary of the Ananecdotes, whom we can relate gels. to, down-to-earth Psalms are Haas helped yet spiritual.” special to writers the audience “I like that Haas’ of liturgical mucompositions draw to pray sic as they express from the gamut of huthrough music. inspiration Scripture,” said man emotions. So it another audience came as no surprise that they featured prominently in member, Ms Diana Tan, 59. Fr Valerian Cheong, who the repertoire of the preeminent composer, who has produced joined Haas on several songs tomore than 50 collections of origi- gether with Carmelite Fr Edward nal music, much of it sung and Lim, Redemptorist Fr Eugene Lee prayed in many parts of the world and Fr Luke Fong, said he appreciates Haas’ music because “they including Singapore. He set the tone for his concerts are scripturally rich and draws with a song inspired by Psalm 89 into our spiritual selves.” Haas has authored more than titled Throughout All Time: “I will sing forever to you my God, 30 books on areas such as liturgy, throughout all time I will sing to youth ministry, prayer and spirituality. He was nominated for a you.” The songs, As Water To The Grammy award in 1991 for his Thirsty and I Will Live On, were recording, I Shall See God. His book, The Ministry and dedicated to his parents, who apparently helped him see God as Mission of Sung Prayer, received the Outstanding Profesunconditionally loving. Throughout the evening, Haas sional Book Award from the was always pointing out God in Catholic Press Association of the His many guises. He shared that United States & Canada in 2003. n after open-heart surgery nine

Haas had the audience singing and swaying to the music. Photos: GERARD GOH

Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

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Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

Young M’sian, S’porean priests bond in annual gathering

Malaysian and Singaporean priests, who are in their first five years of ordination, visited Archbishop William Goh during their young priests’ gathering.

By Fr Matthew Tan, SJ Faith, friendship and fun. That was what happened when 41 young priests (in their first five years of ordination) from the dioceses of Kota Kinabalu, Kuching, Melaka-Johor, Miri, Penang, Sibu and Singapore came together for the annual Regional Young Priests’ Gathering. The gathering, hosted this year by Singapore from Oct 2428, began with participants visiting Archbishop William Goh for a “post-ordination lesson” on the priesthood – not a delayed dogma lesson, but a lesson at the most practical level. Archbishop Goh drew us to the centrality of every priest – his being and his call to holiness before ministry. Archbishop Goh said, “There is no real ministry without holiness. Ministry is the fruit of holiness, not the other way around. It is wrong to think of a priest as a function. Just as Jesus was not doing a ministry but expressing

His Father’s love for Him, so for in learning, especially the oppora priest, ministry is not a job or tunity for the group to have their career but an expression of his be- questions answered and the chance ing, of his call to holiness in the to see such works. priestly vocation. Ministry then For the local priests, they becomes a means took with them In the busyof sanctification the knowledge of for a priest.” which Catholic ness of ministry, Archbishop charity they could priests hardly Goh further reconnect persons in minded the young have time to bond need of help with. priests that knowOur Malaysian with each other. ing their priestly b r o t h e r- p r i e s t s identity takes time saw the growThis gathering and making mising collaboration afforded the time to among Catholic takes is part of the learning. Over renew friendships charities as sometime, the priest bething beneficial. from seminary comes more inteIn the busygrated and grows in ness of ministry, days and build holiness. priests hardly have new ones with The visits to time to bond with those from other Agape Village in each other. This Toa Payoh and the afforded formation houses. gathering various offices at the time to renew the Catholic Centre at Waterloo friendships from seminary days Street (Caritas-Singapore, Catho- and build new ones with those lic Theological Institute of Singa- from other formation houses. pore, Catholic Welfare Services, At meals, some would rememChancery and CHARIS) were rich ber to order an extra portion of

Visiting Universal Studios Singapore was part of the fellowship experience.

roast pork because they knew that a fellow priest liked roast pork! There was an opportunity to discover the “special skill” one of us learnt from his days in the seminary. He shared his TCM (traditional Chinese medicine) skills with other priests in need of healing of their aches and pains. Bonding at this human level does much to add to holiness in a priest’s life. Having fun together is akin to joy in the priestly vocation. Yes, we priests need to be

“boys” as well. It was “serious stuff” to test out the rides at Universal Studios Singapore. Even the long waits for some of the rides were times for sharing and bonding. As Archbishop Goh reiterated, “You are firstly brothers and confreres, not colleagues”. Indeed, this annual Young Priests’ Gathering will forge bonds which will be reflected in our lives and ministry – as we share in the one life and ministry of Christ. n

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Vatican: New bishops in China must have papal approval VatiCan City – No matter what the motivation or how seriously threatened one may believe the Catholic Church in China is, the ordination of bishops without a mandate from the pope is a serious violation of Church law, the Vatican said. “In recent weeks, there has been a series of reports regarding some episcopal ordinations conferred without papal mandate of priests of the unofficial community of the Catholic Church in continental China,” said a statement on Nov 7 from Mr Greg Burke, director of the Vatican press office. “The Holy See has not authorised any ordination, nor has it been officially informed of such events,” Mr Burke said. “Should such episcopal ordinations have occurred, they would constitute a grave violation of canonical norms.” In mid-October, ucanews.com, an Asian Catholic news agency, reported that “Fr Paul Dong Guan-

hua from Zhengding in northern Hebei province” announced during a Mass in May that he had been ordained secretly as a bishop. In September, amid reports that the Vatican was holding talks with China’s communist government, Fr Dong began appearing in public dressed as a bishop, wearing a mitre and carrying a pastoral staff. In an exclusive interview with ucanews.com, the newsagency reported that “Fr Dong denied rumours that he has in turn ordained Fr Wang Chengli, apostolic administrator of Heze in eastern Shandong province, or

People pray during a Mass in China. The Vatican released a statement saying it has not been officially informed of any episcopal ordinations happening in China. CNS photos

that there are five more self-styled bishops who do not have papal or government recognition.”

Holy See has not authorised ‘The any ordination ... Should such episcopal ordinations have occurred, they would constitute a grave violation of canonical norms.

’

– Mr Greg Burke (left), Vatican press office director, on reports of bishops’ ordinations taking place in China without papal approval

However, the agency reported, “Fr Dong did admit that he ordained a 51-year-old bishop on Sept 7 this year.” Ucanews.com described Fr Dong as a member of China’s underground Catholic community, which refuses to acknowledge or collaborate with the governmentaffiliated Chinese Catholic Patriotic Association. In early October, returning from a trip to Georgia and Azerbaijan, Pope Francis told reporters

that some contacts have been made with the Chinese government, but they were proceeding “slowly.” The British news agency Reuters reported in late October that Vatican and Chinese officials were meeting with the hope of finalising an agreement on the ordination of bishops approved both by the government and by the pope and that the Vatican would recognise at least four bishops originally named by the Patriotic Association, but not the Vatican. n CNS

Interfaith gathering Christian leaders call for calm celebrates mercy in wake of Jakarta violence in Vietnam Ho CHi MinH City – Vietnamese Catholics invited people from various religions to come together to celebrate interfaith harmony at an event in Ho Chi Minh City to highlight Pope Francis’ message for the Year of Mercy. Some 500 people attended including followers of Baha’i, Buddhists, Hindus, Protestants, as well as those from the Cao Dai and Minh Ly Thanh Hoi indigenous faiths. The meeting was themed Blessed are the Merciful. The event was held by the Ministry of Interfaith Dialogue Committee of Ho Chi Minh City Archdiocese at the Pastoral Centre on Oct 27. Archbishop Paul Bui Van Doc of Ho Chi Minh City and Bishop Stephanus Tri Buu Thien of Can Tho, who is in charge of the Vietnamese bishops’ interfaith dialogue committee, were present. “The Christian purpose of the meeting is to celebrate the Year of Mercy together with followers of other faiths,” Fr Francis Xavier Bao Loc, head of the organising committee, told ucanews.com. Attendees were invited to share their charitable activities. All had stories to share: about caring for those with leprosy, elderly

people without relatives, poor patients and the marginalised. Dai Co Minh, a follower of Minh Ly Thanh Hoi, a sect that combines Buddhism with animism, shared that over 20 doctors, physicians and followers from various religions worked together at the Tam Tong Mieu free clinic to care for dozens of poor patients every day. “We work in harmony and respect one another because we all are children of one Father,” Minhsaid. Bishop Thien said followers of various faiths are sensitive to the distress of their fellow humans. “Although we are from different faiths, we are from the same home and nation,” he said, citing a Vietnamese proverb of similar meaning. Hong Phuc, from Cao Dai, another syncretistic sect, said she enjoyed the warm atmosphere. “We have the same aspiration to serve people with love from the Creator. Only selfless love can help people live up to God’s will and serve mankind,” she said. The meeting featured cultural performances, songs, dance, drama, calligraphy and photos of interfaith activities. n UCANEWS.COM

Jakarta – Catholic and Protestant leaders in Indonesia have warned Christians not to stoke tensions following violence at a protest staged by hard-line Muslims against Jakarta governor Basuki Tjahaja Purnama. The Christian governor known as Ahok and who is of Chinese descent, is being accused of blasphemy for allegedly insulting the Qur’an during a speech in September. On Nov 4, about 150,000 Muslims took to the streets of Jakarta demanding that Ahok be handed the death penalty. Violence flared in which one person was killed and at least 100 others injured, including police officers. Chinese-owned businesses were also targeted by the mob. Ahok’s supporters, both Christian and Muslim, have since taken to social media to back the embattled governor. “I can only support the governor through social media,” said Ms Maria Manalu, a Christian from South Jakarta. “I am angry at those who blame the governor and post messages of hatred on social media,” she said. The messages of support have sparked fears among Catholic and Protestant leaders that they could

lead to further unrest. They said the blasphemy allegations against Ahok were politically rather than religiously motivated. Ahok is seeking a second term

Christians must refrain from interfering in the legal process surrounding the governor’s alleged blasphemy, said Fr Antonius Benny Susetyo. as Jakarta governor and was leading his main rivals, according to recent opinion polls. Fr Antonius Benny Susetyo, a senior researcher at the Para Syndicate, an institute for policy

studies, told ucanews.com on Nov 9 that Christians must show calm and refrain from interfering in the legal process surrounding the governor’s alleged blasphemy. “See this case wisely, because it’s about politics” rather than religion, Fr Susetyo said. Rev Palti Panjaitan of the Batak Huria Protestant Church said Christians should not look upon the blasphemy accusation as an attack against Christianity. Instead of reacting negatively, Christian supporters must engage in spreading the message of peace and unity, he said. Rev Gomar Gultom, Secretary of the Communion of Churches in Indonesia, said many moderate Muslim leaders also see the accusation as a political move ahead of local elections next year. n

UCANEWS.COM

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Aid the poor, don’t just pray, Filipinos told Manila – The head of the Phil-

ippine bishops’ conference has urged Filipinos to not only pray but to also care for the poor if they want to go to heaven. “Prayer is very important but ... if the only thing that you will do is pray and play blind to those who are poor, your prayers will not bring you to heaven,” said Archbishop Socrates Villegas of LingayenDagupan. In his homily during the celebration of a Mass for the launch of Aid for the Church in Need (ACN) in Manila on Nov 15, the prelate said “the pathway to heaven is prayer with love ... prayer with generosity.” “You want to go to heaven? Help. You want to go to heaven? Reach out. You want to go to heaven? Care,” he told supporters and guests at the event held at the Manila Cathedral. Archbishop Villegas said the launching of ACN in the Philippines offers an opportunity

to Filipinos to be a blessing to others. “When we speak of the ACN, we don’t speak about Syria and Africa. We don’t only speak about Mindanao. We don’t speak about the Middle East, we actually speak about ourselves,” said the prelate. ACN is a Catholic aid foundation, established in 1947 for war refugees. It has been recognised as a papal foundation since 2011 and is dedicated to the service of persecuted Christians around the world. The prelate described as a “historic moment” the establishment of ACN in the Philippines “because it begins a new chapter of bearing witness to the Lord in the Philippines.” On Nov 14, ACN, which has its headquarters in Germany, opened a national office in the Philippines, the latest addition to the 22 national fundraising offices all over the world. n UCANEWS. COM

Filipino children play in a slum area of Manila, Philippines. Archbishop Socrates Villegas of Lingayen-Dagupan said ‘the pathway to heaven is prayer ... with genorosity.’ CNS file photo

Communists want Catholic help KottyaM, india – At a ceremony

to mark the conclusion of the Jubilee Year of Mercy, the communist leader of the southern Indian state of Kerala asked the Church to help support his government’s welfare programmes. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijay-

an made the appeal while speaking at the Nov 12 function in the largely Christian town of Kottyam. “I don’t have any problem in getting the Church to support us in these areas,” he said. Mr Vijayan said his government, which came to power in May, wants

to improve public hospitals and schools. Lauding Christian work in these two fields, Mr Vijayan said he wanted to make the Church a partner in the government’s programme. The Church can also do a lot to help the government improve housing and sanitation, Mr Vijyan said, adding that he plans to call a meeting with senior Catholic bishops. Bishops’ council chairman, Cardinal Baselios Cleemis expressed readiness to work with the government. However, he wanted to make sure that the improvements would help all sections of society, not just people who support the communists. The celebration also honoured people who committed outstanding acts of mercy over the previous year, according to organiser, Fr Michael Vettikkatt of Kottayam archdiocese. Communists and Christians used to be at loggerheads in Kerala, ever since a Church-led resistance developed into an anti-communist struggle that resulted in the fall of the first democratically-elected communist government in 1957. Christians, who form 19 percent of the state’s 33 million people, voted en masse against the communists in successive elections. But the Marxists still managed to form governments and participate in the state’s political life. n UCANEWS.COM

Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan said he wanted to make the Church a partner in the government’s welfare programmes.

Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

Sunday November 27, 2016 ď Ž CatholicNews

III

Sunday November 27, 2016  CatholicNews

VISION OF THE ARCHDIOCESE Archbishop William Goh expressed his hope for the Catholic Church in Singapore to be a more vibrant, missionary and evangelistic Church when he was installed as archbishop in 2013. These words have become a rallying call for Catholics and Catholic organisations, inspiring them to support the realisation of the pastoral vision of the Archdiocese of Singapore. While the Church has grown in the past three years,

the archdiocese is still some way oﬀ from fully realising its vision. The next seven years of the 10-year pastoral plan will be critical, requiring every Catholic in Singapore—priests, religious and the laity—to work together through organisations and projects. Realising the archdiocese’s vision entails four strategic thrusts: Rekindling our Faith; Renewing our People; Revitalising our Outreach; and Refreshing our Structures.

+ + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + + +

to build the church of tomorrow

to pray, act, give

Our archdiocese envisions a more vibrant, missionary and evangelistic Church.

Let us pray for a constant spiritual rejuvenation of our Church.

As the fundraising arm of the Catholic 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.

Let us actively use our God given talents to love others today. Let us pledge a monthly contribution to our archdiocese, so that our Church may always have what is necessary to do God’s work.

Sunday November 27, 2016  CatholicNews

YOUR GIFT IS THE ANSWER

You know, Lord, that our family life may be the only gospel that some people will ever read. So we pray, God, for you to use us in any way you deem fit.

I pray especially for the youths of your Church, Lord. Many of them are lost. I pray that you send shepherds to find these lost sheep, to call them back to you, as you have called me.

The Church holds the family as sacred, modelled after God’s own Trinitarian nature. The Archdiocesan Commission for the Family (ACF) was established in 2014 to lead and synergise the eﬀorts of 13 Catholic organisations which aim to strengthen, build community and care for families. Each year, numerous programmes and initiatives, such as retreats to foster deeper relationships, marriage preparation courses, and other services, help address the pastoral needs of families in diﬀerent situations or statuses in life.

Young Catholics today live in trying times, in an environment in which religion is increasingly seen as irrelevant. The Oﬃce for Young People (OYP) reaches out to nearly 10,000 young people—Catholics and non-Catholics— each year across diﬀerent tertiary education institutes in Singapore. Its pastoral work includes a range of formation programmes, encounter retreats, and many other initiatives aimed at helping youths discover and cultivate their faith.

Together, Catholics can make a larger contribution to these organisations so that they can expand and improve their eﬀorts to beneﬁt every family.

Together, Catholics from all walks of life can provide the resources critically needed to nurture future generations of the Church as missionary disciples of God.

PHOTO: VITA Photo

PHOTO: Oﬃce for Young People

Lord, I pray for the priests, who despite having given up their lives for you, have their own struggles as well. You know the way, Lord, towards healing, reconciliation, forgiveness, mercy and new life.

Lord, I pray that I can, in all my unworthiness and inadequacies, lay down my life for you, for your Church and your people. Out of love for you, Lord, help me to be obedient.

There are 160 priests in the Archdiocese of Singapore as of 2016. Many are growing old, with nearly a third of them serving in the priesthood for over 30 years. In anticipation of a higher number of priests retiring in the near future, the archdiocese is planning to build Bethany East, a retirement residence to better care for the ageing shepherds of the Church.

The call to the priestly or religious life is a decision many struggle to make. Years of discernment, training and study are needed before one would be able to fully consecrate himself or herself to God. The archdiocese has plans for a new seminary and formation centre to be built to enhance training and support of seminarians in their journey toward the priesthood, as well as religious and lay people in their vocations.

Together, Catholics can help build this residence and provide comfort and care to those who have given their lives to care for others.

PHOTO: Archdiocesan Land & Properties Singapore

Together, Catholics can unite in support of the future shepherds of the Church by providing the resources to build better facilities.

PHOTO: Archdiocesan Land & Properties Singapore

Sunday November 27, 2016  CatholicNews

ER TO SOMEONE’S PRAYER

Jesus, help us to be a Church moved by great love for you, and a deep conviction of the joy of the Gospel. That this joy may lead many others to come to know you.

Jesus, hold me close to you. I am so far from home and my family, but I know that you are with me always.

“The joy of the Gospel fills the hearts and lives of all who encounter Jesus,” affirms Pope Francis in the apostolic exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium. In this exhortation, every Catholic is challenged to constantly renew their relationship with Christ and to spread their joy to others, to truly become the light of the world. The Office for the New Evangelisation (ONE) was established in the archdiocese to instil such an enthusiasm for Jesus Christ through its initiatives, formation programmes and resources.

Non-Singaporean Catholics are precious to the Archdiocese of Singapore. They include professionals and foreign workers who leave behind their families to earn a living for them. The Archdiocesan Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants & Itinerant People (ACMI) oversees the pastoral needs of foreign Catholics in Singapore, especially among the poor and needy. It holds breadbasket events and skills development courses among many other initiatives.

Together, Catholics can bring much needed ﬁnancial support for the Church to continually motivate and equip the faithful to be witnesses in the world.

Together, Catholics can contribute more resources necessary to care for the needs of foreign Catholics in Singapore, who are part of the family of Christ.

PHOTO: Church of the Holy Spirit

PHOTO: VITA Photo

Lord, let me be a good Catholic, to give and to serve, to do ordinary things with extraordinary love. Help me find a place to serve, to contribute, and to bring light to others.

I thank you Lord for how you have built, and continue to build your Church in Singapore. I pray that we may continue growing for generations to come.

As God continues to call the Church to make disciples of people in all nations, we must ensure that every one of God’s chosen people has a place to pray, worship, serve and love God. Today, the archdiocese is facing a crunch in providing the appropriate spaces for the countless activities of the Church. Thus, there are plans for an archdiocesan centre to be built that can cater to these needs.

In the archdiocese today, there are multiple properties which sit on leasehold land. These properties are at a risk of being lost if the Church is unable to renew land leases when they expire. Commencing 2017, the archdiocese will create sinking funds in preparation for the renewal of archdiocesan properties, as well as for the renovation of buildings owned by the Church. The eﬀort will start modestly, with additional fundraising needed when the actual renovations and lease renewals take place.

Together, Catholics can contribute to build up the physical structures of the Church, enabling the Church to grow spiritually for generations to come.

PHOTO: VITA Photo

Together, Catholics can act today to secure the future of the Church.

PHOTO: VITA Photo

Sunday November 27, 2016  CatholicNews

THE CHALLENGE an unsustainable model

The Catholic Church works tirelessly for its spiritual mission to “unite all things in Him” (CCC 772). But to do this, the Church requires physical resources to live and work on earth.

The traditional funding model of dropping cash into collection bags is no longer sustainable to maintain the Church, let alone fuel its growth. Much more is needed to answer God’s call to be a more vibrant, missionary and evangelistic Church.

limited pools of funds The Church is one body made of many parts. Thus, the funding for various aspects of the archdiocese is split into diﬀerent pools of funds, each managed separately. Donations to Catholic charities (Caritas Singapore, CHARIS and their aﬃliates) and to the religious congregations for instance, are collected and used solely for their particular purposes, and do not go towards funding other organisations in the archdiocese or the parishes. Traditionally, the 31 parishes and numerous archdiocesan organisations (apart from charities and

aﬃliates of Caritas and CHARIS) are funded by weekly oﬀertories and other collections made during Masses.

POOLS OF FUNDS

Until recently, only a ﬁxed 15% share of parish collections are contributed to the archdiocese, the rest of which are kept for the respective parish’s own needs. Beginning 2016, the 15% ﬁxed contribution was revised to a tiered system of between 4% and 28% depending on the income of each parish. However, this contribution, even with the revised rates, is inadequate to meet the expanding needs of the archdiocese.

PARISH

PARISHES

ARCHDIOCESE

CATHOLIC FOUNDATION

RELIGIOUS

RELIGIOUS CONGREGATIONS

SINGAPORE

CARITAS SINGAPORE & AFFILIATES

OVERSEAS

CHARIS & AFFILIATES

WHAT’S NEEDED 2017 to 2023

S$ million

Archdiocese’s operating expenditure

85.8

Building projects¹ - New seminary and formation centre

19.0

- Residence for retired priests

3.1

- Centre for archdiocese’s activities

150.0

Sinking funds for maintenance & leases²

53.6

Total expenditure

311.5

Expected income from parishes & donations³

48.7

Deﬁcit

262.8

Current archdiocese cash reserves

24.7

Net cash shortfall

238.1

¹Does not include Church of the Transﬁguration and Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, which have separate fundraisers. ²Sinking funds are for the renewal of leases of archdiocesan properties, and for the maintenance and renovation of existing buildings.

operational needs

building needs

Resources are needed for the many offices, commissions, councils and other organisations in the archdiocese. They work as many parts of one body, seeking to bring the light of Christ to every aspect of society. Notable organisations include the Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic Schools (ACCS), Archdiocesan Commission for the Family (ACF), Office for the New Evangelisation (ONE), Office for Young People (OYP), and more.

On top of current operational costs, the archdiocese has several infrastructural projects, building maintenance and land lease renewals, each of which runs into the millions. Near term building projects include a residence for retired priests, a new seminary and formation centre, and an archdiocesan centre. In addition, sinking funds, which do not currently exist for almost all of the Church’s properties, are being set up.

These are just some of the building blocks in the plan to becoming a more vibrant, missionary and evangelistic Church. The archdiocese’s operational and building costs are also expected to increase in the years to come. Visit gift.catholicfoundation.sg to ﬁnd out more about what is needed, and for a more detailed breakdown of the archdiocese’s plans.

³Based on the revised tiered system of contribution by parishes to the archdiocese.

about catholic foundation TO PROMOTE CHRISTIAN GIVING AND PROVIDE STEWARDSHIP FOR FUNDS RAISED TO SUPPORT THE NEEDS OF THE CATHOLIC ARCHDIOCESE OF SINGAPORE The Catholic Foundation was established in December 2012 with the initial intent of providing an additional vehicle of funds to sustain the Archdiocese of Singapore.

Thus, the mandate of the Catholic Foundation was expanded in November 2015 to be the fundraising arm of the archdiocese.

Since the archdiocese embarked on a vision to become a more vibrant, missionary and evangelistic Church, an increase in operational and building needs are expected in the years to come.

With the Catholic Foundation taking on the task of fundraising, archdiocesan organisations can focus on their apostolate work and be less constrained by unsustainable budgets. Find out more at www.catholicfoundation.sg.

Sunday November 27, 2016  CatholicNews

VII

how to give

There are two ways to give to the Catholic Foundation: through online channels or appeal envelopes and forms. Online Among the giving vehicles, GIRO is preferred as it is the most cost eﬀective, while online channels are encouraged as they are the most eﬃcient in ensuring data accuracy. Going online also allows donors to easily track and monitor their gifts to the Church. Sign up at gift.catholicfoundation.sg to start giving.

I prefer to give through... Appeal envelopes and forms

Online

CF Website

iBanking

Business Reply Envelope

Parish Collection Points

GIRO

Bill Payment

GIRO

debit / credit card

Direct Bank Transfer

Cheque

Cheque Cash

Others

* GIRO, especially online, is the preferred method.

Appeal Envelopes and Forms (Available at every parish from 26 November) Donors can also choose to give through the Catholic Foundation’s appeal envelopes and forms. Envelopes can be returned through Business Reply Service (please do not mail cash), dropped off at parish collection points such as the parish office, or at collection points at the Catholic Centre. Alternatively, the archdiocese has also designated the third Sunday of each month for a second collection for returns to the GIFT campaign; cash, cheque, or GIRO forms can be placed into appeal envelopes, then dropped into collection bags at each parish. How much to give? Every individual is urged to give regularly and generously to the Church, with an amount that will allow the archdiocese to fulfil its vision to be a more vibrant, missionary and evangelistic Church. Listen to what God calls for. “Give as you have made up your mind, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver.” (2 Cor 9:7).

To give regularly to the Archdiocese of Singapore via GIRO, please ﬁll in the form below and return it to: CATHOLIC FOUNDATION, 55 Waterloo Street, #05-02, Catholic Centre, Singapore 187954

APPLICATION FORM FOR INTERBANK GIRO

*all ﬁelds compulsory

My Monthly Gift

My Personal Particulars Name of donor (Mr / Mrs / Ms / Mdm / Dr / Others:_______)

$10

$50

$1,000

Others:

GIRO FAQs $100

$200

$500

Name of Bank NRIC/FIN No.

Step 2: Mail the original completed GIRO application form with an envelope and stamp to:

Name(s) as in bank record

CATHOLIC FOUNDATION 55 Waterloo Street, #05-02, Catholic Centre, Singapore 187954

Bank A/C No. Date of Birth

Y I/We hereby instruct you to process the Catholic Foundation’s instructions to debit my/our account.

Address

Signature(s) / Thumbprint(s) As in bank record

Parish

Please go to the branch with your identiﬁcation document for thumbprint

(HP)

Contact No.

(H/O)

Date

For Catholic Foundation’s Ofﬁcial Use Only DBSSSGSGXXX

This authorisation will remain in force until terminated by my written notice sent to the Catholic Foundation. I/We consent to the Bank’s disclosure of customer information relating to me/ us in this document.

To: Catholic Foundation Limited This application is hereby REJECTED (please tick) for the following reason(s):

SWIFT BIC

You are entitled to reject the Catholic Foundation’s debit instructions if my/ our account does not have sufﬁcient funds and charge me/us a fee for this. You may also at your discretion allow the debit even if this results in an overdraft on the account and impose charges accordingly.

For Bank’s Ofﬁcial Use Only

Catholic Foundation’s A/C No.

SWIFT BIC

Name of approving ofﬁcer

Signature / Thumbprint differs from Financial Institution’s record Amendments not countersigned by customer Signature / Thumbprint incomplete/unclear

Account No. to be Debited Authorised signature Catholic Foundation’s Reference No.

Wrong account number Account operated by signature/ thumbprint Others:

Date

HOW DO I GET STARTED? Step 1: Complete this GIRO application form with your personal details, account number, and signature / thumbprint.

WHAT HAPPENS IF I MAKE A MISTAKE ON THE FORM? You may cancel and make amendments, but do ensure that you countersign any changes made. Do not use correction fluid on the form as it will be rejected by the bank. HOW LONG DO I NEED TO WAIT BEFORE MY GIRO DONATION IS ACTIVATED? Your GIRO donation will take typically up to 21 working days to be activated. WHEN WILL THE GIRO DEDUCTION BE MADE? A monthly deduction will be made from your bank account on the 1st of each month. The amount deducted will be reflected in your bank statement under “Catholic Foundation”. Please note that if the 1st falls on a weekend or public holiday, the deduction will be made on the next working day. WILL I RECEIVE A RECEIPT FOR MY GIRO DONATION? Yes. You will receive a consolidated receipt at the end of the year for your donations made via GIRO. WHAT IF I HAVE INSUFFICIENT FUNDS IN MY BANK ACCOUNT? A second deduction will be made on the 10th of the same month. Please note that some banks charge a service fee for an unsuccessful GIRO deduction due to insufficient funds.

VIII

Sunday November 27, 2016 ď Ž CatholicNews

WORLD 13

Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

Vatican official offers Trump best wishes, assures him of prayers the new president that his adminMr Donald Trump for his vic- istration may truly be fruitful,” the tory in the US presidential elec- cardinal said. “And we also assure tion, the Vatican secretary of him of our prayers that the Lord state expressed hope that people would enlighten and sustain him would work together “to change in his service to his country natuthe global situation, which is a rally, but also in serving the wellbeing and peace of situation of serious the world.” laceration, serious Cardinal Parolin conflict.” was asked about the Cardinal Pietro polemics that arose Parolin, Pope Franearlier in the year cis’ top aide, spoke between Mr Trump about the election and Pope Francis early on Nov 9 durover the question of ing a meeting at immigration, espeRome’s Pontifical cially concerning the Lateran University. US-Mexico border. The Vatican then “Let’s see how released a transcript Cardinal Pietro Parolin the president acts,” of his remarks. “First of all,” he said, “we re- Cardinal Parolin said. “Normally, spectfully must take note of the they say, it is one thing to be a will expressed by the American candidate and another to be presipeople in this exercise of democ- dent, to have that responsibility.” “It seems premature to make racy that, they tell me, was characterised by a large turnout at the judgments” until Mr Trump is inaugurated and begins making decipolls.” “We send our best wishes to sions, Cardinal Parolin said. n CNS

Presidentelect Donald Trump, with Mrs Melania Trump, is seen with Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnel, in Washington, on Nov 10. Cardinal Pietro Parolin, Vatican secretary of state, assured Mr Trump of his prayers.

VATICAN CITY – Congratulating

CNS photos

US Church leaders stress support for migrants LOS ANGELES – Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los Angeles called for mercy and an end to deportations as he led religious leaders in an interfaith prayer service for peace, solidarity and unity at the Cathedral of Our Lady of the Angels. “Now is the time to build unity and heal communities, through our love for our neighbour and our care for those in need. That’s what tonight is about. Not politics. It’s about people,” he said during the Nov 10 event. Joining the archbishop and Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti at the service were Jewish, Muslim and other leaders.

The archbishop and Mr Garcetti organised the prayer service as a sign of unity and solidarity amidst the uncertainty after the Nov 8 elections. The archbishop drew particular attention to immigrant communities, expressing the Church’s support for them. That same concern was voiced by the chairman of the US bishops’ Committee on Migration, Auxiliary Bishop Eusebio Elizondo of Seattle, in a statement issued in Washington on Nov 11. After pledging prayers for President-elect Donald Trump and those who will serve in the new administration, Bishop Elizondo

assured migrant and refugee families in the US of the bishops’ “solidarity and continued accompaniment as you work for a better life”. “We pray that as the new administration begins its role leading our country, it will recognise the contributions of refugees and immigrants to the overall prosperity and well-being of our nation,” he said. He added that the Catholic Church will work “to promote humane policies that protect refugee and immigrants’ inherent dignity, keep families together, and honour and respect the laws of this nation.” n CNS

14 WORLD

Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

Forgive us for looking the other way, pope tells homeless people VATICAN CITY – Looking directly at thousands of homeless and marginalised persons, Pope Francis asked for their forgiveness for failures to recognise their dignity and alleviate their suffering. “I ask your forgiveness if I have ever offended you with my words or for not having said something that I should have,” the pope said on Nov 11 during an audience with pilgrims attending special Year of Mercy events for people who are homeless or otherwise socially excluded. Pope Francis, speaking in the name of all Christians, asked their forgiveness for times when they were not treated with the dignity the Gospel says they have. The audience kicked off the final jubilee celebration before the conclusion of the Holy Year of Mercy on Nov 20. The pilgrimage was organised by Fratello (Brother), a French association which organises and hosts events for people in situations of exclusion. Mr Francois Le Forestier, spokesperson for Fratello, told Catholic News Service (CNS) on Nov 8 that over 4,000 homeless and socially excluded persons from 22 different European countries were expected to attend the jubilee celebration in Rome. Three days later, the association’s website said the number of pilgrims had risen to 6,000. While donors from across Europe contributed to help pay the costs of travel and accommodations, Mr Le Forestier said pilgrims were also asked to give a

A man prays during a Jubilee Mass for the homeless celebrated by Pope Francis in St peter’s basilica at the vatican on nov 13.

Pope Francis blesses a pilgrim during a special audience with homeless people at the Vatican on Nov 11. He encouraged them to ‘not give up on dreaming’ despite the sufferings they face daily. CNS photos

small contribution as “a way for them to participate and a way for them to be responsible for their decision to attend this jubilee.” Mr Le Forestier told CNS that the idea for the jubilee celebration for the homeless and excluded became a reality when Mr Etienne Villemain, founder of Lazare – an association that assists the homeless – wrote to Pope Francis asking for a jubilee celebration for homeless people. Due to logistical challenges,

Christmas decorations at Vatican VATICAN CITY – The Vatican’s

Christmas tree and Nativity scene will feature unique designs and decorations highlighting several issues close to Pope Francis, including care for the environment, the sick and migrants. A 24-m spruce tree will be the centrepiece of the Vatican’s Christmas holidays, the governing office of Vatican City said. The tree was to be harvested

on Nov 13 in the Lagorai forest near Scurelle in the northern province of Trent. The Vatican added that the tree will be adorned with handmade ornaments featuring drawings made by children receiving treatment at several Italian hospitals. The Nativity scene will be donated by the government and Archdiocese of Malta. n CNS

The pope heard the experiences of homeless men from France and Poland, and he diligently took notes as they spoke. the event was organised solely for European countries in the hopes that it would lead to an annual worldwide pilgrimage to Rome for the homeless.

Before addressing the pilgrims, the pope heard the experiences of homeless men from France and Poland, and he diligently took notes as they spoke. Pope Francis welcomed them and encouraged them to “not give up on dreaming” despite the sufferings they face daily. “You dreamed that one day you could come to Rome, and that dream came true. You dream that the world can change and that is a seedling that grows in your

hearts,” the pope said. Recalling the experience of one of the homeless persons, the pope said he was moved by the man’s belief that “life becomes beautiful even in the worst situations.” That ability to find beauty “can only happen to a man or woman with dignity.” “It is the same dignity that belonged to Jesus, who was born poor and lived poor. It is the same dignity that the word of the Gospel has. It is the same dignity that a man or woman has in their work,” he said. After his address, Pope Francis asked that the poor pray for him. The homeless people seated near him on the stage surrounded him, gently placing their hands on his shoulders and arms, and prayed with him and for him. n CNS

Mass in solidarity with black people BALTIMORE, MARYLAND, USA – The US bishops chose to break

from tradition during this year’s fall assembly by celebrating Mass at the church known as the “Mother Church” of black Catholics in West Baltimore instead of the usual venue: Baltimore’s historic basilica. “I pray our presence will convey the Church’s solidarity with you,” said Baltimore Archbishop William

E. Lori in opening remarks on Nov 14 to a few dozen parishioners attending the Mass with more than 250 bishops who filled nearly every pew of St Peter Claver Church. In his homily, Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, Kentucky, said the bishops came to the church “to be present, to see with our own eyes, so that we might humbly take a step and lead others to do so.” Archbishop Kurtz, outgoing president of the US Conference of Catholic Bishops, also said the bishops’ presence was just one part of an effort to bring about healing of racial divides. The bishops chose the church, named for the patron saint of slaves and ministry to African-Americans, to show support for parishes in neighbourhoods that have seen rising violence. They picked the brick church – that sits across the street from boarded-up and windowless buildings – on the recommendation of the new task force of the US bishops to promote peace in US communities following the violence in the nation after shootings of and by police officers in Baton Rouge, Louisiana; Minneapolis and Dallas.

Msgr J. Brian Bransfield distributes communion during Mass at St peter claver church in baltimore on nov 14. CNS photo

Last year, St Peter Claver was in the middle of violent protests during riots where there was looting, multiple fires and buildings destroyed in response to the death of Freddie Gray, the AfricanAmerican man who died a week after he was seriously injured while in police custody. The church, a fixture in Gray’s neighbourhood, was a site of prayer immediately after the riots. Its parishioners held community meetings at the parish centre and were on the streets involved in cleaning up broken glass and debris. n CNS

POPE FRANCIS 15

Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

Religions are called to be ‘doors of hope’

Pope Francis greets a Buddhist monk during a Nov 3 audience with religious leaders at the Vatican. The leaders were in Rome for a conference on religions and mercy. CNS photo

Pontiff visits former priests and their families VATICAN CITY – Nearing the end Vatican said, “solitude, incompreof the Year of Mercy, Pope Francis hension and tiredness because of paid a visit to seven families formed the great requirement of pastoral by men who left the priesthood to responsibility put in crisis their marry. The Vatican said the visit was initial choice of priesthood”. The a sign that God loves and is merciful crises were followed by “months to everyone experiencing difficulty. and years of uncertainty and “The Holy Father wanted to of- doubts that in many cases led fer a sign of closeness and affection them to believe they had made the to these young men who made a wrong choice with priesthood. So choice that often was not shared by they decided to leave the priesttheir fellow priests and families,” hood and form a family.” the Vatican said in a Pope Francis enThe former statement about the tered the apartment pope’s visit on Nov 11. and was greeted by priests and The visit was part the priests’ children, their families who embraced him. of the “Mercy Friday” initiative Pope The adults, the Vatidid not feel Francis began in Decan said, “could not judged by the hide their emotion”. cember for the Holy Year, which ends on The former priests pope but felt Nov 20. Almost every and their families did his closeness not feel judged by month throughout the year, the pope visited and affection, the pope, the Vatican a group of people – statement said, but said the people recovering felt his closeness and from addiction, womaffection. He listened Vatican. en rescued from prosto their stories and titution, infants in a hospital neo- paid particular attention to the natal unit – as his own expression concerns they raised about “juridiof the corporal works of mercy. cal procedures”, apparently a refTravelling to an apartment in erence to the process of releasing the Ponte di Nona area on the far a priest from his priestly promises. eastern edge of Rome, the pope met Pope Francis’ “paternal words the families of the former priests. reassured every one”, the Vatican Four of the men had been priests said. “In this way, once again, in Rome. A former priest from Ma- Pope Francis intended to give a drid and a former priest from Latin sign of mercy to those who live in America, both now living with a situation of spiritual and matetheir new families in Rome, also rial difficulty, showing the obliwere in attendance as was a visit- gation to ensure no one feels deing former priest from Sicily. prived of the love and solidarity” After serving in parishes, the of the Church’s pastors. n CNS

VATICAN CITY – Authentic religions help people understand that they are in fact loved and can be forgiven, and are called to love and forgive others, Pope Francis said. “We thirst for mercy, and no technology can quench that thirst,” the pope told Jewish, Christian, Muslim, Buddhist, Sikh and other religious leaders. We seek a love that endures beyond momentary pleasures, a safe harbour where we can end our restless wanderings, an infinite embrace that forgives and reconciles,” the pope told the leaders on Nov 3 during an audience at the Vatican. The leaders were in Rome for a conference on religions and mercy organised by the Pontifical Council for Interreligious Dialogue and the

International Dialogue Centre, which was founded in 2012 by Saudi Arabia, Austria and Spain with the support of the Holy See. “Sadly,” the pope said, “not a day passes that we do not hear of acts of violence, conflict, kidnapping, terrorist attacks, killings and destruction. It is horrible that at times, to justify such barbarism, the name of a religion or the name of God Himself is invoked.” May there be clear condemnations of these attitudes that profane the name of God and sully the religious quest of mankind, he said. Religions are called to bear “the merciful love of God to a wounded and needy humanity” and to be “doors of hope helping to penetrate the walls erected by pride and fear”. n CNS

Christian love must be concrete, says pope VATICAN CITY – A Christian who professes to love but does nothing concrete to demonstrate that love has turned one of the central teachings of faith into an abstraction, Pope Francis said. A love that does not take flesh like Jesus took flesh “is not the love that God commands us to have. It’s a worldly love, a philosophical love, an abstract love, a love that is lacking, a soft love,” the pope said on Nov 11 during morning Mass in his residence. “This is our truth: God sent His son; He became incarnate and

lived a life like we do,” the pope said. The truth of Jesus’ earthly, incarnate life means that love lived in His name also must be concrete, the pope said. “Love like Jesus loved. Love like Jesus taught us. Love following the example of Jesus. Love, walking the path of Jesus. The path of Jesus is giving one’s life.” Pope Francis said that while true Christian love is a mystery, it is not ethereal. It always requires going out of one’s self and setting aside one’s own interests in order to bring expressions of Christ’s

love to another person, he explained. A love that is not concrete, he said, is a symptom of a “religiosity that takes away the flesh of Christ”, leading to a situation where people speak of “God without Christ, Christ without the Church and a Church without people.” “May our path of love never, never be an abstract love,” he said. “May our love always be concrete with the works of mercy that touch the flesh of Christ, the incarnate Christ” present and suffering in the poor and needy, he said. n CNS

16 OPINION

Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

Our resistance to intimacy and love

Fortnightly newspaper of the Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore

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On a dress code for altar servers, lectors Q

: As a cradle born Catholic in Singapore, I have visited almost all the different parishes scattered across Singapore and it is rather perturbing that all the parishes have different standards for altar servers and lectors. Some parishes require their altar servers to dress in a white top, black pants and black court shoes. Some allow their altar servers to serve in multi-coloured sports shoes, shoes without socks, and some even allow their altar servers to be dressed in bermudas! It goes the same for lectors – some are seated in the sanctuary with the priests, communion ministers and altar servers, some parishes have their lectors seated with the main congregation. Dress code differs yet again – some require their lectors to be dressed in white top and black bottoms, others allow a myriad of colours to be worn and even loud dyed hair colours to be donned. My question is why is there a lack of uniformity on such matters across the different parishes? Some may claim that such matters are on a trivial scale, but I beg to differ. If the Communion ministers dress with a certain decorum, why not the altar servers and lectors as well? The congregation looks at the altar servers and lectors with a degree of respect as they help the priests in the preparation of the Eucharist and are messengers of the Word of God respectively. The main idea of uniformity in dressing would allow the congregation to focus on the Word of God and Liturgy of the Eucharist, instead of being unnecessarily distracted by lay factors. I know the archbishop has given the full authority on such matters to parish priests, but in all honesty most of the parish priests are too busy to be around after celebrating Masses on Sundays and dealing with matters of the parish, what more attention can they give to the dressing of altar servers and lectors? It would be good for the Catholic community if the archdiocese

could enforce a code of conduct (or constitution) across all parishes in Singapore so as to ensure that all serving in ministries abide by a certain set of rules. Only if we right such ‘trivial” matters can we then realign our focus to bigger issues at hand, such as homosexuality, premarital sex and abortion. germaine Jacolyn peter Singapore 160122

Should there be a uniform dress code for altar servers and lectors?

: Thank you for your question regarding uniformity in the sanctuary. We Catholics speak of the Mass being the “source and summit of the Christian life” as taught by both Lumen Gentium and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. How we understand this and interpret this may affect the way we see the mi-

nutiae of details, down to the kind of footwear and accoutrements, as you mentioned in your letter. However, while your question seeks to have a code of conduct enforced for all things pertaining to the liturgy, there are hierarchies of importance as well as laws that are general (or universal) and laws that are particular (and customary). The bishop of the diocese has no freedom over the universal laws and ensures that these are followed. However, the particular laws (praeter legem – meaning “outside the law” and are hence technically not illegal) are left to the parish priest who manages each parish accordingly. The things that you pointed out in your letter come under the ambit of particular or customary laws. The diversity that we see in each parish is a result of each parish priest managing the minutiae with emphases on the aspects that are pertinent in his judgment. What he doesn’t have is the freedom to change what is essential. It would be extremely difficult on several levels to attain a uniformity that you so passionately speak about. Besides that, perhaps one of the more damaging consequences is that the Church will easily be seen as a controlling authority on everything. Perhaps it will be best to take this issue up with your parish priest, and avail your services to helping him in these areas which you are passionate about. As long as the spirit of the liturgy is not robbed, terribly abused or completely abandoned, we should not be too overtly concerned that each church may have certain differences. n Fr luke Fong

Do you have a burning question on the faith? questions on the Faith is a new column for you to have your questions answered by authorities on various topics. Just email your question to cnedit@catholic.org.sg,

and include your full name, address and contact number. All decisions on submissions rest with those answering the questions. published submissions will be edited.

THERE’S nothing simple about being a human being. We’re a mystery to ourselves and are often our own worst enemies. Our inner complexity befuddles us and, not infrequently, stymies us. Nowhere is this truer than in our struggle with love and intimacy. More than anything else, we hunger for intimacy, to be touched where we are most tender, where we are most ourselves, where all that’s most precious in us lies, vulnerable and yearning. Yet, in the actual face of intimacy, sensitive people often become disquieted and resistant. We see two powerful instances of this in the Gospels: The first in a story, recorded in all four Gospels, where a woman enters a room where Jesus is dining and, in a series of lavish gestures, breaks an expensive bottle of perfume, pours the perfume onto His feet, washes His feet with her tears, dries them with her hair, and then begins to kiss His feet. What’s the response of those in the room, save for Jesus? Discomfort and resistance. This shouldn’t be happening! Everyone shifts uncomfortably in their chairs in the face of this raw expression of love, and Jesus Himself has to challenge them to look at the source of their discomfort. Among other things, He points out that, ironically, what they are uncomfortable with is what lies at the very centre of life and at the very centre of their deepest desires, namely, the pure giving and receiving of love and affection. It’s this, Jesus affirms, for which we are alive and it’s this experience which prepares us for death. It’s what we are alive for. It’s also what we most yearn for? So why our discomfort and resistance when we actually face it in life? The second instance occurs in John’s Gospel where, at the Last Supper, Jesus tries to wash His disciples’ feet. As John records it, Jesus got up from the table, stripped off His outer robe, took a basin and towel, and began to wash His disciples’ feet. But He meets discomfort and resistance, clearly voiced by Peter who simply tells Jesus: “Never! You will never wash my feet!” Why? Why the resistance? Why resistance in the face of the fact that, no doubt, more than anything else, what Peter most deeply desired was intimacy with Jesus? Answering the question of our struggle with intimacy in this context provides one clue for why we sometimes become uncomfortable and resistant when we are in the actual face of what we desire so deeply. Our feet are too intimate; they’re a part of our bodies where we worry about dirt and smell, not a part of ourselves that we feel comfortable having others touch. There’s an innate vulnerability, a discomfort, an inchoate shame, attached to having someone else touch and wash so intimate a part of us. Intimacy demands an ease which our vulnerability sometimes renders impossible. And so this text speaks to one kind of resistance to intimacy, to a particular unease within certain circumstances. But Peter’s resistance here speaks too of something else, something more salient: If we are healthy and sensitive, we all will naturally experience a certain discomfort and resistance in the face of raw gift, before raw intimacy, before raw gratuity. And, while this is something to be overcome, it’s not a fault, a moral or psychological flaw on our part. On the contrary, in its normal expression, it’s a sign of moral and psychological sensitivity. Why do I say this? Why is something that seems to block us from moving towards the very essence of life not a sign that there’s something fundamentally wrong inside of us? I suggest that it’s not a flaw but rather a healthy mechanism inside us because narcissistic, boorish, and insensitive persons are often immune to this discomfort and resistance. Their narcissism shields them from shame and their callousness allows them an easy and brute ease with intimacy, like someone who is sexually jaded enough to be comfortable with pornography or like someone who takes intimacy as something to be had by right, casually or even aggressively. In this case, there’s no shame or discomfort because there’s no real intimacy. Sensitive people, on the other hand, struggle with the rawness of intimacy because genuine intimacy, like heaven, is not something that can be glibly or easily achieved. It’s a lifelong struggle, a give and take with many setbacks, a revealing and a hiding, a giving over and a resistance, an ecstasy and a feeling of unworthiness, an acceptance that struggles with real surrender, an altruism that still contains selfishness, a warmth that sometimes turns cold, a commitment that still has some conditions, and a hope that struggles to sustain itself. So be gentle, patient, and forgiving towards others and self in that struggle. n

ADVENT FEATURE 17

Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

Spiritual preparations to make during Advent, which begins on Nov 27 By Marcellino D’Ambrosio

dvent is a time of anticipation, for someone even bigger than Santa Claus is coming to town. The human race has been waiting a long time for His next visit. Actually, it waited a long time for His first visit. Things had gone awry early in our history. We went from paradise to misery in the blink of an eye, and waited for God to turn things around. However, some groundwork had to be laid first – a slow, gradual preparation of humanity to get it ready for the historic encounter with its Saviour. There were some ideas about God and His plan that had to be gotten across. Moses was entrusted with the lion’s share of that job. But besides this intellectual preparation, there had to be spiritual and moral preparation as well. Calling the people of God to holiness was the speciality of the prophets and, given the magnitude of their job, there were many of them – Jeremiah, Amos, Hosea and Zechariah, to name a few. God spoke both stern and comforting words through these prophets. Isaiah 40, for example, begins with comfort: “Speak to the heart of Jerusalem, and proclaim to her that her service has ended, that her guilt is expiated” (Is 40:2). Captivity is over, God is coming to the rescue,

By Kelly Bothum

Isaiah says that a road in the desert must be prepared for the Lord’s coming. Valleys must be filled in. Mountains levelled. Crooked ways made straight.

A girl in St Peter’s Square holds baby Jesus figurines for Pope Francis to bless. CNS file photo

to feed his flock like a shepherd. Yet Isaiah goes on to say that a road in the desert must be prepared for this coming. Valleys must be filled in. Mountains levelled. Crooked ways made straight. Actually, it would be easier if all we had to do was literally dynamite some mountainside. But the last and greatest of the prophets, John the Baptist, helps us understand the true meaning of Isaiah’s

words. The prep work needs to be done in us, not in sand and gravel. If the Messiah is to come, the way must be levelled and straightened. The heights blocking his approach are mountains of pride. Pride exalts itself higher than God, erecting a barrier against Him. The tower of Babel is a great example of pride’s futile loftiness. But how about the valleys needing to be filled?

ing Advent. These include St Nicholas Day (Dec 6). the feast In an age where we can get just of Our Lady of Guadalupe (Dec about everything we desire in 12) and the feast of St Lucia, or an instant, Advent is wonderSt Lucy, (Dec 13), whose name fully old-school. means “light”. It’s taking a breath amid the n Find the light around chaos and seeing what’s really us. It’s simple, but lighting the around us. it’s a chance to reAdvent wreath is one of my faengage with those we love and vourite traditions. joyfully prepare for the ChristWe keep the wreath on our mas season. dining room table, and each We may hit the mall to look Sunday my kids fight over for the perfect present, but whose turn it is to light the canhave we really thought about dles. the greatest gift given to us What I do like is just how by God? We race to get up the deeply invested my kids feel in Christmas lights, but do we set this tradition. We keep the canaside time to think about the dles lit through our meal, and true Light of the World? it’s amazing how this simple Lighting the Advent wreath could be a Advent gives us that, week family tradition. glow warms our family dinner by week. So how do we do it? – much like the light of Jesus As parents, we need to create opwarms our soul. portunities for this mindful pause. chance to talk about everyone’s This time of the year, frankly, role in the story of Jesus’ birth. I need the pause that Advent proHere are a few ideas to consider: n Enlist some help with the Children can see themselves in vides. It seems we are always in Nativity scene. This is the perfect the lowly shepherds and the three a state of anticipation, waiting for opportunity to remind children Wise Men, and they can cer- the next phone upgrade, the next about the real hero of the season – tainly imagine how challenging sequel, the next big thing that’s and it’s not the guy in the red suit. it must have been for Joseph and going to change our lives. This Having kids help with the Mary. year, let Advent teach us who trun Celebrate feast days dur- ly is worth waiting for. n CNS Nativity scene gives parents a

Philosophers and theologians define evil as the privation of good, the lack of something that ought to be there, such as a lack of

charity. Such sins of omission are gaping holes needing to be filled to make a highway for our God. John the Baptist lived his message. The mountains of pride had been levelled in him. He pointed not to himself but to Him whose sandal strap, he says, he is not fit to untie. “I have baptised you in water; He will baptise you in the Holy Spirit” (Mk 1:8). The Messiah was coming to utterly immerse us in the power and wisdom of God, to make us new people, able to be like God, to do new and great things. This is, without a doubt, something worth preparing for. n CNS

18 YEAR OF MERCY

Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

Singapore churches get invo A look at what five parishes did during

St Anthony parishioners make a pilgrimage on foot A total of 87 parishioners from the Church of St Anthony, ages ranging from seven to 70, embarked on a pilgrimage to the Church of St Vincent de Paul on Oct 1. After attending morning Mass in their parish, the pilgrims walked to Marsiling MRT station headed to Yio Chu Kang. Upon reaching, they commenced the 4.5-km journey by foot to the Church of St Vincent de Paul. Pilgrims walked in contemplative silence, praying and reflecting on God’s mercy using a specially prepared prayer card which included scripture (Micah 6:8) and reflection questions. A number of elderly pilgrims who could not walk for long distances completed the pilgrimage by taking a bus instead. Despite the discomfort due to the hot weather, many of the pilgrims were determined to complete the journey by foot and spoke of the compelling presence of the Holy Spirit. One such pilgrim, Madam Rose Ong, had persisted with the pilgrimage despite suffering a back injury just before the pilgrimage. She shared, “I was tempted

to give up several times when the pain became increasingly unbearable. Once I started praying the rosary, the pain miraculously subsided and I was filled with a deep sense of peace.” Upon arrival, all pilgrims prayed before passing through the Holy Door and then each pilgrim spent personal time in deep prayer in the church hall. The pilgrimage ended with the group praying the rosary. To prepare themselves spiritually for the pilgrimage, each pilgrim went through a four-week process consisting of weekly scripture reflections focused on the theme of mercy, acts of mercy and receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation at least a week prior to the pilgrimage. Many of the pilgrims also actively participated in the St Anthony’s Bread Project, a charity food drive that collects and distributes food hampers for the needy in the community which was taking place during the same period. A youth ministry, Hidden Treasures, one of the ministries of the Youth of Saint Anthony (YSA), also organised a series of pilgrimages for their young people.

To prepare themselves spiritually for the pilgrimage, each pilgrim went through a four-week process consisting of weekly scripture reflections, acts of mercy and receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

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s Above: Pilgrims took part in the St Anthony’s Bread Project – a charity food drive that collects and distributes food hampers for the needy in the community – as part of their preparation for the Holy Door pilgrimage to the Church of St Vincent de Paul. Right: A youth from the Church of St Anthony praying before entering the Holy Door at the Church of the Sacred Heart.

There were three pilgrimages over the course of two months, with different participants attending each pilgrimage. The pilgrimages took participants to the Church of the Sacred Heart on Aug 20, the Church of the Holy Cross on Sept 11 and the Church of St Vincent de Paul on Oct 15. Mr Joel Tan, 20, one of the

organisers, shared that the focus of the pilgrimage was to “discover God’s blessings through people and the environment, even in the midst of an urban setting.” Ranging from ages 18 to 22, participants were first introduced to the concept of the Holy Doors of Mercy during a spiritual preparation session. n

Seniors of Risen Christ answer call of mercy By Richard Ng A seniors ministry from the Church of the Risen Christ organised a visit to the five Holy Door churches in Singapore for 85 members and their friends. On Sept 14, the Vintage Care group started their pilgrimage at the Church of Divine Mercy before heading off to the Church of St Vincent De Paul. By noon, they were at the Church of the Risen Christ where they attended the lunchtime Mass. The group then proceeded to Church of the Holy Cross where they sang hymns.

Their pilgrimage ended at Church of the Sacred Heart where they learnt about the parish’s history. Besides visiting the Holy Doors, the Vintage Care group also did corporal works of mercy such as raising funds for the poor through Caritas Humanitarian Aid & Relief Initiatives, Singapore (CHARIS). The group has about 80 members and they meet every Wednesday to have praise and worship, devotional prayers and attend Mass. Other activities include line dancing and table games. n

M Members of the Vintage Care group from the Church of the Risen Christ praying at the Church of the Sacred Heart.

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YEAR OF MERCY 19

Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

volved during Year of Mercy

ng the Holy Year which ends on Nov 20 Parishioners visit all five Holy Doors

St Ignatius lectors start initiative for the poor

The Church of St Vincent de Paul organised for about 75 parishionorganised two pilgrimages to ers on Nov 5. The two pilgrimall the Holy Doors in the archdio- ages were organised by the Parish cese. Pastoral Council with the help of The first one, held on July 6, neighbourhood and prayer minissaw 179 people travelling in four try leaders. chartered buses. On the third They visited the Thursday of the The aim was Holy Doors at the month, Holy Hour to enable St Church of the Risen is observed in the Christ, Church of Vincent de Paul Church of St Vinthe Sacred Heart, cent de Paul. During pilgrims to Church of the Holy the Year of Mercy, experience God’s this monthly Holy Cross, and Church of Divine Mercy Hour was preceded mercy through before returning to by a solemn proa journey. the Holy Door at the cession through the Church of St VinHoly Door of the cent de Paul. The aim was to en- church. able pilgrims to experience God’s The people attending Holy mercy through a journey. Hour would gather outside the The pilgrimage concluded church at 8pm to pray before with lunch and fellowship for all singing a hymn and processing participants in the parish canteen. through the door. This initiative Due to overwhelming re- was organised by the prayer minsponse, a second pilgrimage was istry leaders of the parish. n

The Lectors Ministry from the Church of St Ignatius started an initiative to help low income residents living in Redhill. Titled The Lector Ministry Social Mission Project, the initiative was a collaboration with the Society of St Vincent de Paul conference of St Ignatius, and Willing Hearts, a charity founded in 2003 by a group of parishioners from the Church of St Michael. The initiative commenced in June and involves the collection and distribution of lunch packets provided by Willing Hearts to low income resident once a month as rostered by the Society of St Vincent de Paul. The meals are supplemented with fruits contributed by the lectors. Residents who are sick or unable to come down to collect the food have their packets delivered to their homes. During the distribution process, the lectors and members of Willing Hearts take the opportunity to engage with the residents. Apart from the initiative, the parish also organised various pilgrimages. Fourty-three members of the parish’s Charismatic Group embarked on a journey to the Holy Doors of the Churches of Divine Mercy, Sacred Heart and Holy Cross. The pilgrimage, held on Oct 11, was organised by one of the members to contemplate and embrace the mercy of God during the jubilee year. Participants were accompanied by Carmelite Br Emmanuel Noel

Teo, the group’s spiritual director. He shared with the group that the purpose of the pilgrimage was first and foremost to honour God, the physical journey undertaken also symbolised their spiritual journey towards a loving relationship with Christ. Br Emmanuel shared how each person could obtain a plenary indulgence during the pilgrimage. Other groups from St Ignatius also made pilgrimages during the Holy Year. About 100 members of the Legion of Mary Bible Study group made a pilgrimage to the Church of the Sacred Heart on Feb 14.

Making a pilgrimage beyond Singapore Parishioners of the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour (OLPS) went on three pilgrimages to the various Holy Door churches in Singapore and Malaysia. Legionaries of the East Curia, including those from OLPS, made the first pilgrimage to the Church of Divine Mercy on May 15. There, parish priest Fr Johnson Fernandez shared what mercy truly means and how a person can receive a plenary indulgence. Before entering the Holy Door, pilgrims recited Pope Francis’ Prayer for the Year of Mercy.

On July 6, 188 parishioners made a pilgrimage to the Churches of St Vincent De Paul, Risen Christ, and Divine Mercy. It was organised by the OLPS Divine Mercy ministry. Another pilgrimage organised by the Neighbourhood Christian Community of OLPS on Aug 20 took pilgrims to the Holy Door churches in Johor, Malaysia. The visit took pilgrims to the Churches of St Philip, The Immaculate Conception and Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. n

Parishioners from the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour walking to the Church of St Vincent De Paul on July 6.

On Feb 22, 18 pilgrims visited the Church of the Sacred Heart accompanied by Fr Leslie Raj. From May 20-22, 30 parishioners, mostly members from the various Bible groups of the Church of St Ignatius, made a pilgrimage to churches in Malacca. The pilgrimage took parishioners to the the Holy Door of St Peter’s Church, St Francis Xavier Church and the Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe. During the visit, parishioners learnt about the history of the parishes, attended Mass and had fellowship with volunteers from these churches. n

OUR LADY OF LA VANG

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Church of St Vincent de Paul parishioners visit Church of Divine Mercy.

Members of the Lectors Ministry distributing food packets to low income residents living at Redhill. The project was an initiative during the Jubilee Year of Mercy.

Sunday November 27, 2016 n CatholicNews

One day, Jesus and the apostles were on the Mount of Olives. The apostles wanted to know more about when the Son of Man would come at the end of the age and what signs there would be of His coming. Jesus described what the earth would be like right before his return. He warned that people would try to trick them. Those people would lie and say that they were prophets, and some people would even pretend to be Jesus. He warned His friends not to believe everything they heard and saw. Jesus then compared the signs of His coming to a fig tree. “Learn a lesson from the fig tree,” he said. “When its branch becomes tender and sprouts leaves, you know that summer is near. In the same way, when you see all these things,

know that He is near, at the gates.” Jesus also let the apostles know how important it was to always be ready for His return, because it could happen on any day, at any time. “But of that day and hour no one knows, neither the angels of heaven, nor the Son, but the Father alone,” Jesus explained. He said that on the day of His coming, people would be going about their daily lives – eating, drinking, getting married – just as they were doing before the flood came during Noah’s time. “They did not know until the flood came and carried them all away,” Jesus said. “So will it be also at the coming of the Son of Man.” He used the example of two men working in the fields and two women working at a grinding stone. When the Son of Man comes, one of the men and one of the women

SPOTLIGHT ON SAINTS:

St Nicholas of Myra St Nicholas was the bishop of Myra, Turkey, in the fourth century, and he was known for his piety and zeal. Few other facts are known about St Nicholas, but there are plenty of legends. One tells of a man who lost all of his money and could not afford the dowries needed so that his three daughters could be married. So, St Nicholas walked by the man’s house and tossed three bags of gold into an open window. It is said the bags landed in shoes or stockings being dried by the fire. That’s why in some countries, children leave out their shoes or stockings to be filled with gifts on the saint’s Dec 6 feast day. St Nicholas was made popular in America by Dutch settlers, who called him by a different name: “Sint Niklaas,” which evolved to “Santa Claus.” n

So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.” n

will be taken, Jesus said, and the others will be left behind. “Therefore, stay awake!” Jesus warned his apostles. “For you do not know on which day your Lord will come.” “Be sure of this,” Jesus added, “if the master of the house had known the hour of night when the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and not let his house be broken into.