JULY 03, 2011, vol 61 no 13

Page 1

www.catholicnews.sg SUNDAY JULY 3, 2011

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PPS 201/04/2012 (022727)

Vatican hopes for end to illicit ordinations CNS photos

VATICAN CITY – The Vatican said

it hoped the postponement of an illicit episcopal ordination in Hankou diocese would mark the end to all ordinations without papal approval in China. 7KH 9DWLFDQ FRQÂżUPHG WKDW WKH planned illicit ordination of Fr Joseph Shen Guo’an was postponed LQGHÂżQLWHO\ KH ZDV WR KDYH EHHQ ordained bishop of Hankou, or Wuhan, on June 9. Fr Ciro Benedettini, vice diUHFWRU RI WKH 9DWLFDQ SUHVV RIÂżFH told Catholic News Service on June 10 that the Vatican hopes “this kind of ordination without the permission of the pope doesn’t ever happen againâ€?. There was no new date set for the ordination or explanation for the postponement. The postponement came after the Hong Kong-born secretary of the Congregation for the Evangelisation of Peoples urged priests and bishops in China to show “some backboneâ€? and resist government pressure to disobey the pope. In an interview with the Rome-based AsiaNews on June 3, Archbishop Savio Hon Tai-fai said he had been aware of the planned ordination and that he knew Catholics there had been urging the government and the Chinese Patriotic Association not to go through with it. He said he would want to tell Fr Shen: “I trust you to act the right way. The only thing to do is to refuse.â€? Archbishop Hon said even though the government still puts pressure on priests and bishops to follow its orders on illicit ordinations, the consequences of disobedience are less harsh now. “Today, for instance, there is no risk of forced labour, prison or death.â€? Clergy may still be punished, however. For example, he said, they may lose public funding for WKHLU GLRFHVH IDFH GLIÂżFXOWLHV LQ performing pastoral tasks, be iso-

VOL 61

NO. 13

INSIDE HOME China Catholics learn about RCIA Singapore plays host „ Page 5

HOME Singaporeans ordained overseas Frs Michael Lim and Damien Lim share their stories „ Page 7

ASIA Nuncio’s 2nd visit to Vietnam Urges Catholics to preserve religious heritage „ Page 10

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lated from other clergy or the faithful, be forbidden to travel abroad or within China, or may be forced into a “re-education� programme. “In any case, the punishment that might be meted out is no reason not to resist. Submission is a public act that causes scandal, sending the wrong message to the faithful,� he said. He added that those who have succumbed to government pressure and acted against papal mandate should “make public amends� to show the faithful their actions were wrong. Refusing to participate in an illicit ordination also sends a powerful message to the government, the archbishop said. “If you show some weakness or a propensity toward compromise, the government will take advantage of you.� On the other hand, “the govern-

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ment could do nothingâ€? when SHRSOH VWRRG ÂżUP DQG UHIXVHG WR be ordained by excommunicated bishops. He said Blessed John Paul II’s words, “be not afraidâ€?, are an inspiration to Chinese Catholics. Bishops and priests afraid of government retribution for disobeying orders should get support from others, or “they should simply ask to be released from their pastoral duties and have the courage to suspend their ministryâ€?. Archbishop Hon said the government’s strategy in setting up a Church independent of the Vatican is a way to maintain control over religion and yet create the impression that there is religious freedom in the country. „ CNS „ 3DJH 9DWLFDQ FODULÂżHV

excommunication penalty

ASIA Dispute over Spratlys Islands Philippine bishops urge dialogue „ Page 11

LETTERS ‘Handle Communion host properly’ A reader shares his observations „ Page 15

PILGRIMAGES Church groups visit sacred sites in France and Italy „ Pages 16-17

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Sunday July 3, 2011 „ CatholicNews

Catholics visit MUIS, learn about Islamic practices By Darren Boon Some 20 priests, Religious and laypeople visited the Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS), or the Islamic Religious Council of Singapore, where they learnt more about the organisation and management of Muslims’ religious life here. The June 8 visit was organised by the archdiocese’s Council for Inter-Religious and Ecumenical Dialogue (IRED) and Priestly Life Commission. Commission chairman Fr Aloysius Ong said the visit aimed at increasing cooperation among faiths, and awareness among priests of issues beyond parish work. Mr Zainul Abidin Ibrahim of MUIS Strategic Engagement Unit introduced MUIS’ 40-year history and the services it provides. A presentation on the process of fatwa (religious ruling) formulation, by Ustaz Irwan Hadi, head of WKH 2IÂżFH RI WKH 0XIWL IROORZHG Then it was question-and-answer time as participants tucked into a hot and savoury mee soto lunch complete with belinjau dan sambal cilipadi (fruit crackers with chilli). The Catholic visitors asked further questions about fatwa, the training of Muslim religious leaders in Singapore and the appointment of the imam and mufti. While a fatwa can be issued by an individual scholar in other countries, MUIS said the issuance of a fatwa in Singapore is a collective process that involves the deliberation of a committee comprising the mufti and scholars. It is only when the committee comes to a unanimous decision that a fatwa can be issued. The issuing of a fatwa needs to take into consideration “Singapore’s context and situationâ€?, so a religious ruling issued overseas needs to “be re-studied, evaluated, and adjusted to suit local needs and requirementsâ€?, said Ust Irwan. He added that a fatwa can change over time as “Islam accepts the reality of changes that

Majlis Ugama Islam Singapura (MUIS) representatives and their Catholic visitors pose for a photo after their gathering on June 8.

must happen to human life, therefore Islam has provided a set of religious doctrine that can be adapted to changes�. He pointed to the recent fatwa on the religious status of nomination for CPF monies as well as on the Human Organ Transplant Act, as examples of how fatwas have changed over time. While Singapore has no religious institution to train Islamic scholars, and students have to go overseas for tertiary religious education, MUIS said it keeps in touch with these students through the MUIS Academy. Upon their return to Singapore, post-studies programmes ensure that these students can integrate back into Singapore society and contribute to it, explained MUIS Academy dean Dr Albakri Ahmad. The academy has also established an Asatizah (religious teachers) Recognition Scheme WKDW DFFUHGLWV TXDOL¿HG UHOLJLRXV teachers and scholars to teach or preach Islamic religious knowledge in Singapore.

‘

There is so much hope for further cooperation and friendly relations.

’

– Fr Kamelus Kamus, assistant priest of Church of the Risen Christ.

08,6 RIÂżFHUV DOVR VWUHVVHG that jihad means “to strive to better oneself or the communityâ€? and does not equal warfare, and that striving for peace must be the priority. There is also no objection to Catholic parishes providing assistance to poor and needy Muslims if they approach churches for aid. Dr Albakri also extended an invitation to Catholics who are interested to attend seminars or workshops that Hartford Seminary conducts for and with MUIS in Singapore. Hartford Seminary promotes interfaith engagement in a pluralistic and multi-faith

environment and trains religious leaders in interfaith dialogue and understanding, according to the institution’s website. The Catholic visitors said they found the visit very informative. Grace and Philip Tong, a married couple from Church of St Ignatius involved in the parish’s outreach work to Muslims, said the visit was “educational� and that they enjoyed MUIS’ hospitality. They added the parish “will continue to build upon the already positive relations we have with the Muslim community in Spore�. The parish provides social

support for Pertapis homes for children and the elderly. “A lot of misconceptions have been cleared�, which have arisen from international media reports, said Fr Francis Lee, parish priest of Church of Lady Queen of Peace. “There is so much hope for further cooperation and friendly relations,� added Scheut Missions priest Fr Kamelus Kamus, assistant priest of Church of the Risen Christ. MUIS was formed as a statutory board in 1968. It advises the Singapore president on all matters pertaining to Islam in the country. MUIS aims “to broaden and deepen the Singapore Muslim community’s understanding and practice of Islam while enhancing the well-being of the nation�, says its website. „ darrenboon@catholic.org.sg

ARCHBISHOP’S DIARY Jun 27 7.30pm Church of the Holy Spirit: Mass – Opus Dei - Founder’s Day Jul 02 9.00am Church of the Holy Cross: Mass – Eucharistic Congress for Youths 6.30pm Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour: Mass – 50th Anniversary of Church Jul 03 11.00am Church of Sts Peter and Paul: Mass – Feastday 5.45pm Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary: Mass – Feastday Jul 04 to 08 Johore: Catholic Bishops’ Conference -XO SP &KXUFK RI &KULVW WKH .LQJ 0DVV ¹ &RQ¿UPDWLRQ

Mr Zainul Abidin Ibrahim (right) explaining the history and role of MUIS to his Catholic visitors.

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Sunday July 3, 2011 „ CatholicNews Photo: BENEDICT TANG

Catechists and youth ministry representatives in small group discussions during the June 4 dialogue workshop.

Catechists, youth ministries discuss greater collaboration By Darren Boon Catechists and youth ministry representatives from various parishes attended a workshop recently to promote greater understanding and collaboration between both groups. Sixty-three people attended the sessions on June 4, organised E\ WKH &DWHFKHWLFDO 2IÂżFH DQG WKH <RXWK 0LQLVWU\ 2IÂżFH DQG KHOG DW the Catholic Archdiocesan Youth Centre. Sixteen parishes were represented of which 10 had both their catechists and youths present. Diocesan groups such as Amplify Youth Ministry and Youth for Christ also participated. As both the secondary-level catechists and various parish youth ministries serve teenagers, “there are great opportunities for collaboration to help young people encounter Christâ€?, said the organisers. However, a possibility RI FRQĂ€LFW H[LVWV GXH WR WKH GLIIHUent ministries having “different cultures and orientationsâ€?. The workshop thus “aimed

at bringing about understanding, healing, and unity among the catechetical and youth ministries for the greater glory of Godâ€?. Participants were divided into groups to share the goals and activities of their ministries. A dialogue session followed during which participants spoke about how teenagers and young adults needed support to face life’s challenges, as well as faith formation as a lifelong process. “Youth catechesis is most effective within a comprehensive youth ministry,â€? catechetical director Fr Erbin Fernandez told parWLFLSDQWV DQG XUJHG WKHP WR UHĂ€HFW on how young people can grow in their Catholic identity and spirituality through faith communities. He also asked them to consider an approach that integrates ministry with adolescents and their families into the total life and mission of the Church. Many participants acknowledged the importance of the workshop. “I felt that this dialogue was DQ LPSRUWDQW ÂżUVW VWHS IRUZDUG IRU

the parishes in the diocese,â€? said Mr Roy Kheng, a catechist from the Church of the Immaculate Heart of Mary. “Collaboration has to be the watchword; we all work for the same boss, Jesus Christ.â€? He said there is strong cooperation between the youth ministry and catechists in his parish. The workshop on dialogue between catechists and youth ministries was a good start, said Mr Moses Shen, youth coordinator of the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. However, he anticipated there would be many challenges ahead which would need “a lot of work, communication, and faith and prayerâ€?. A follow-up session is planned for November to examine how youth, young adult and catechetical ministries “can work together to create a unifying vision for adolescent catechesis among ministriesâ€?, the organisers said. With information from Catechetical OfÂżFH DQG <RXWK 0LQLVWU\ 2IÂżFH „ darrenboon@catholic.org.sg

&DWHFKHWLFDO GLUHFWRU )U (UELQ )HUQDQGH] XUJHG SDUWLFLSDQWV WR UHĂ€HFW RQ how youths can grow in their Catholic identity and spirituality through faith communities.

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– Mr Roy Kheng, catechist from Immaculate Heart of Mary Church

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Sunday July 3, 2011 CatholicNews

Record donations for Charities Week Charities Week 2011 raised a record $5,564,243, says Caritas Singapore Community Council. It not only surpassed last year’s donations but also came at a time of the unprecedented Japanese disasters which saw many in Singapore donating to the cause, said Caritas. “It is heart-warming to know that Catholics are giving more to help the poor and needy in our midst,” said a press statement from WKH RI¿FLDO VRFLDO DQG FRPPXQLW\ arm of the Singapore archdiocese. Proceeds from the annual fundraising campaign will aid organisations such as the Archdiocesan Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People, Boys’ Town Singapore, Catholic AIDS Response Effort, Catholic Welfare Services, Family Life Society, Infant Jesus Homes and

Children’s Centres, Marine Parade Family Service Centre, Morning Star Community Services, the Roman Catholic Prison Ministry, CHARIS, CLARITY and ABLE. The money will enable these organisations to run their social service programmes, says Caritas. Although Charities Week 2011 has come to a close, those who wish to donate to these organisations can still do so. Make cheque donations payable to “Caritas Singapore” and mail to: 55 Waterloo Street, #09-03 Singapore 187954. Donors who require tax deduction should indicate this on the back of the cheque and also provide their NRIC number and contact details. For more information on the charity organisations, visit www. caritas-singapore.org or call 6337-3711.

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Sunday July 3, 2011 CatholicNews

China Catholics visit S’pore, learn about RCIA The Church delegation from China pose for a photo at the St Francis Xavier Major Seminary. Also in the photo are Fr Paul Tong (centre, with stick) and Belgian Fr Jeroom Heyndrickx (second row, third from right).

By Darren Boon Some Catholics from China visited Singapore in May to learn more about the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA), according to a report by Hai Sing Pao. The 19-member delegation comprised priests, nuns and laypeople from Hengshui, Liaoning and Beijing dioceses. They were in Singapore for 10 days from May 7 to attend workshops at the St Francis Xavier Major Seminary. These were jointly organised by the Singapore archdiocese’s Mandarin RCIA team and the Scheut Missions Verbiest Institute in Taipei. Also present were two Scheut Missions priests based in Taiwan including Belgian Fr Jeroom Heyndrickx, who was one of the presenters. Other presenters from Singapore included Frs Paul Tong and Henry Siew, Canossian Sr Clare Tan and laypeople. The visitors learnt about the approach and spirit behind the RCIA, the structure and training of the RCIA team and course content among other topics. The Singapore hosts also shared how they promote the RCIA to spread the Gospel message. Both sides also exchanged pointers on their ministries and pastoral experiences. During their stay, the Chinese delegation visited four parishes

and interacted with Mandarinspeaking Catholics. The Chinese guests say they EHQH¿WHG IURP WKH H[FKDQJH Writing to CatholicNews in Mandarin via email, Fr Matthew Gong said he could feel the passion and spirit of service within the Singapore Church, which has spurred him to want to do more for the Chinese Church. The priest from Yichang diocese in Hubei who does mostly

Fr Matthew Gong from Hubei says he is ‘determined’ to ‘promote the RCIA ... while taking into consideration China’s situation’. liaison work for the Verbiest Institute nowadays, said he is “determined” to “promote the RCIA ... while taking into consideration China’s situation”. He added that he plans to “organise exchanges and discussions” and to adapt the knowledge he has gained for the China Church. Fr Gong also praised Singaporean Catholics’ involvement in RCIA. He said this provides a “new direction for the Chinese

Church” where lay involvement becomes more crucial in the face of declining religious vocations. His visit also taught him that the spirit of service and determination is important in meeting people’s pastoral needs, he said. The trip to Singapore was a life-changing experience for Ms Ding Hong Ru from Liaoning diocese. Ms Ding, who attended an RCIA session at the Church of St Michael, said she was impressed at the sincerity with which one of the catechists shared with participants. On her way back to China, she told a priest from her diocese, who was travelling with her, that she would like to be an RCIA catechist. Ms Ding, a parish secretary who also works with youth groups VDLG VKH KDV EHHQ WU\LQJ WR ³¿QG her place and ministry within the Church” and the Singapore trip helped her discover her calling. She said she hopes to start as a RCIA sponsor. Meanwhile, she is reading a book Fr Siew had given to her, and is determined to study the Bible daily while re-learning her catechism. The RCIA experience in Singapore is something China could learn from, she said. A good RCIA team can draw more people into the Church and into the faith, she added. darrenboon@catholic.org.sg

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Sunday July 3, 2011 CatholicNews

‘Renewal’, ‘revival’ stressed at Pentecost rally

Part of the 1,000-strong crowd at the Church of Christ the King on June 12.

Fr Simon Pereira: ‘Share the marvels of God.’

Youth leading the praise and worship.

“This is the golden age of the Catholic Church in Singapore where renewal and revival are happening,” said Fr Simon Pereira. “People are connecting with each other … we’re getting there,” said the Charismatic Redemptorist priest at the Pentecost Rally held at Church of Christ the King on June 12. About 1,000 people attended the rally which started with a lively praise-and-worship session led by youths. In his address to the crowd, Fr Pereira spoke of how the Holy Spirit leads people to renewal, conversion and empowerment. He also quoted from the Early Church Fathers such as St Cyril of Alexandria and St Basil the Great on renewal in the Holy Spirit. “We should put away our old self and be utterly transformed and launched on a new way of holy living,” said Fr Pereira, quoting St Cyril. Prayer teams from the various parish Charismatic groups then prayed over people in the congregation. During the Mass which followed, Fr Pereira urged the crowd to “share the marvels of God with others”.

Choirs sing for Christian unity

Choirs from different churches took part in a Night of Song for Christian Unity, held at the Barker Road Methodist Church on June 18. The choirs (clockwise from top left) from Barker Road Methodist Church, the Catholic Church

of St Ignatius, Mar Thoma Syrian Church and Church of South India enthralled the audience with their repertoire of largely contemporary songs. The event was a follow-up to the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity held in January.

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Sunday July 3, 2011 „ CatholicNews

1st S’porean Opus Dei priest By Darren Boon )U 'DPLHQ /LP WKH ¿UVW 6LQJDSRUHDQ 2SXV 'HL SULHVW ZDV RUdained on May 14 in Rome at the %DVLOLFD RI 6W (XJHQH +H LV FXUUHQWO\ VWXG\LQJ IRU KLV 'RFWRUDWH LQ 3KLORVRSK\ LQ WKH 3RQWL¿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¶V IRXQGHU 6W -RVHPDULD (VFULYD

Fr Damien Lim was ordained in Rome.

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Fr Michael Lim will serve in Archdiocese of Canberra and Goulburn.

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Sunday July 3, 2011 CatholicNews

Holy Spirit Church’s ‘Amazing Race’ bonds community

Legion of Mary connects with young Mandarin speakers

A team attempts to decorate a cupcake with cream and sprinkles during the church’s One Community, One Race event.

From eating spicy buffalo wings and icing cupcakes to dribbling a soccer ball, participants in the Church of the Holy Spirit’s One Community, One Race did them all. Organised by the youths from the parish’s RCIY/C (Rites of Christian Initiation for Youths and Children) team, the Amazing Race-styled event was a symbolic way to mark the start of the parish’s next 50 years. Over 40 teams of four comprising mostly parishioners came together on May 29 with the aim of completing 14 checkpoints in two hours. In addition, one of the teams KDG D ¿IWK PHPEHU DQG WUXPS FDUG in parish priest Fr Andrew Wong, having outbid other teams for him. Checkpoints for the race were FKRVHQ IRU WKHLU VLJQL¿FDQFH LQ WKH parish’s history within the Upper Thomson area. They ranged from WKH ¿UVW ORFDWLRQ RI WKH FKXUFK WR

the favourite hangout places of all ages throughout the years. This meant that many establishments in the community were involved in making the race happen, very much in line with what the organisers had intended. In addition, a number of these establishments took up stalls in the post-race food fair in the canteen. “We really enjoyed ourselves! It was good old fun, the old fashioned way,” commented participant Patricia Tan. Fr Andrew had similar sentiments. “The race was excellent. I’m glad that youths took up the challenge and responsibility to organise such an event,” he said. “The race really wasn’t about us,” said Mr Jude Tan, an organiser. “It was about the community. And most importantly, it was about God. He made the race amazing.”

Some participants of the recent Legion of Mary camp, conducted in English and Mandarin, pose for a photo.

By Darren Boon The Legion of Mary’s Mandarinspeaking youth section recently organised a camp to introduce teenagers to the movement and to attract members to its governing body, or Curia. Thirty participants aged nine to 17 from across the diocese participated in the June 3-5 camp held on the grounds of the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The camp was conducted in English and Mandarin. Language is not a barrier to joining the youth Curia as activities are bilingual except during joint formal events with the Mandarinspeaking adults which will then be in Mandarin, said the Curia’s vice president, Ms Joycelyn Wang. The organisation wanted to

make the Legion of Mary known to participants and allow them to have some fun and interaction with the Legionaries, Ms Wang added. Camp activities included an introduction to the Legion of Mary, team games, spiritual input, prayers and sharings. One highlight was a night event when participants were blindfolded and walked around the campsite relying on the Bible to navigate an obstacle course. It was supposed to mirror the obstacles the campers face in life and the different messages they get from the world and from God. The organisers wanted to show participants what life would be like with God and without God, said Ms Wang. So far, seven of the participants have signed up to join the Curia while others are still considering.

Andrea Wang, 15, from the Church of St Michael, signed up to be a Legionary after the camp. Wang, who was not previously involved in a Church group, said she heard from others that the Legion of Mary is a good ministry to be in, and after knowing more, she felt her decision is “a right choice”. She hopes that through this ministry, she would be able to help others in the community who are in need. She added that the camp helped her to “know more about God” and the spiritual input helped her to know what her “gifts really are”. Organisers said they will keep participants informed of upcoming Curia activities. darrenboon@catholic.org.sg

Celebrating movement’s 90th year The Legion of Mary in Singapore is celebrating the international movement’s 90th anniversary with activities and events. These aim at recruiting members while igniting Legionaries’ passion for their mission. Marian-themed talks by priests have started in March. The next talk will be on The Immaculate Conception by Fr Andrew Wong at 4 pm on July 16 at Church of the Holy Spirit. The schedule of the other talks for the rest of the year will

be announced closer towards the dates. Meanwhile, a travelling exhibition highlighting the movement’s founder Frank Duff and other prominent Legionaries, as well as the work of the movement, is making its rounds of the parishes in Singapore. The exhibition will be held at the Church of St Bernadette, Church of St Francis of Assisi, Church of the Holy Spirit and Church of Christ the King over the next few weeks.

Other activities include a Legion Seminar in August, a Marian Congress in October, a 90th anniversary Mass and dinner celebration in early September, as well as a Mass to pray for 'XII¶V EHDWL¿FDWLRQ 7KH ¿UVW /HJLRQ RI 0DU\ praesidium (unit) in Singapore was founded in December 1947. Today, there are 138 praesidia in the Singapore archdiocese with 1,193 active members and 3,026 auxiliary members.

ASIA 9

Sunday July 3, 2011 „ CatholicNews

Religious activities curbed Focolare centres in northern Laos, says priest move to Indonesia By Darren Boon

LUANG PRABANG, LAOS – Curbs

on religious activities around Luang Prabang province have LQWHQVLÂżHG IROORZLQJ D VHULHV RI protests in May by ethnic Christians across the border in Vietnam, said a Vietnamese priest ZRUNLQJ LQ /DRV “We are deeply concerned DERXW WKH IXWXUH RI WKH /XDQJ 3UDEDQJ $SRVWROLF 9LFDULDWH ZKHUH religious activities are limited, loFDO &DWKROLFV DUH FORVHO\ ZDWFKHG DQG YRFDWLRQV DUH IHZ ´ )U 5DSKDel Tran Xuan Nhan told the Asian &KXUFK QHZV DJHQF\ 8&$ 1HZV RQ -XQH )U 1KDQ IURP 9LQK GLRFHVH LQ FHQWUDO 9LHWQDP KDV ZRUNHG LQ /DRV IRU \HDUV DQG HVWDEOLVKHG /HJLRQ RI 0DU\ JURXSV LQ WKH FRPPXQLVW OHG FRXQWU\ +H VDLG WKDW VLQFH ZKHQ WKH FRPPXQLVW 3DWKHW /DR URVH WR SRZHU DIWHU WKH /DRWLDQ FLYLO ZDU WKH DSRVWROLF YLcariate has produced just one naWLYH SULHVW DQG QR QXQV The priest said Luang Prabang provincial authorities try to limit ORFDO WUDYHO RI &DWKROLFV ZKR DUH UHTXLUHG WR LQIRUP YLOODJH DXWKRULWLHV ZKHQ WKH\ ZDQW WR OHDYH WKHLU FRPPXQLWLHV 7KH VLWXDWLRQ LV ZRUVH IRU HWKQLF +PRQJ &KULVWLDQV ZKR GHPDQGHG UHOLJLRXV IUHHGRP LQ DQ early May demonstration in VietQDPÂśV 'LHQ %LHQ SURYLQFH ZKLFK ERUGHUV /XDQJ 3UDEDQJ SURYLQFH The local government preYHQWV &DWKROLFV IURP DWWHQGLQJ 0DVV RQ 6XQGD\V E\ IRUFLQJ WKHP to do community service or learn JRYHUQPHQW SROLFLHV )DWKHU 1KDQ VDLG )RXU PLOLWLDPHQ ZLWK JXQV stand outside Buon Saya chapel ZDWFKLQJ &DWKROLFV ZKR DWWHQG services, he said, adding that oc-

Laotian Catholics participating in a traditional ceremony. A priest says the local government prevents Catholics from attending Sunday Mass by forcing them to do community service or learn government policies. &16 ÂżOH SKRWR

casionally they also sit in the FKDSHO GXULQJ D VHUYLFH Msgr Tito Banchong Thopahong, apostolic vicariate adminLVWUDWRU DQG )U 3LHUUH %XQWKD 6LODSKHW ZKR ZDV RUGDLQHG D SULHVW LQ -DQXDU\ FHOHEUDWH ZHHNO\ 0DVV attended by three nuns and 20 &DWKROLFV DW WKH FKDSHO A Vietnamese Dominican SULHVW ZKR KDV ZRUNHG LQ /XDQJ 3UDEDQJ IRU VL[ \HDUV DQG DVNHG

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10 ASIA

Sunday July 3, 2011 „ CatholicNews

M’sian bishop Papal envoy makes notes ‘rise of second visit to Vietnam laity’ in Church VIETNAM – The non-resident pon-

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³:LWKLQ D ZHHN ZH FROOHFWHG ERRNV ZRUWK UXSHHV 6 ´ VDLG WKH SULHVW /RFDO OHJLVODWRU $ 3UDGHHSNXPDU ZKR ODXQFKHG WKH ERRN GRQDWLRQ FHUHPRQ\ KDLOHG WKH SDULVK PRYH DV D JRRG ZD\ WR HGXFDWH VWXGHQWV DERXW WKHLU UHVSRQVLELOLW\ WR KHOS WKH SRRU 0V 3RQQDPP D +LQGX DQG PRWKHU RI D VHFRQG JUDGHU ZKR UHFHLYHG WKH ERRNV VDLG WKH &KXUFK¶V JHVWXUH ZRXOG KHOS KHU WR DFKLHYH KHU GUHDP RI JLYLQJ JRRG HGXFDWLRQ WR KHU FKLOGUHQ „ CANEWS.COM

ASIA 11

Sunday July 3, 2011 „ CatholicNews

Vatican-approved bishop’s Filipino bishops call for dialogue over ordination to go ahead HANDAN, CHINA – Handan dio-

cese is preparing to go ahead with the episcopal ordination of Fr Joseph Sun Jigen despite objection from the government. The event is scheduled for June 29, the Feast of Sts Peter and Paul, at Caozhuang Church in Hebei province. Bishop Stephen Yang Xiangtai is to be the main consecrator. He will ordain Fr Sun as coadjutor bishop. The appointment of Fr Sun has been approved by Pope Benedict XVI. The diocese has prepared for the ordination and also informed all Catholics to begin a novena to pray for it. According to local sources, JRYHUQPHQW RIÂżFLDOV UHMHFWHG WKH date of the ordination saying it comes close to the 90th anniversary of the establishment of the Communist Party of China on July 1. They also maintain that it should be the government to decide on the ordination date. The government sees the symbolic feast day as “sensitiveâ€?, as it means “we are loyal to Romeâ€?, a source said.

Photo: UCANEWS.COM

Fr Joseph Sun Jigen is expected to be ordained bishop on June 29.

The local Church thinks ordaining a bishop is an internal matter and only needs to inform the government but not apply for approval, the source added. Fr Sun was making a spiritual retreat and could not be reached.

Church people have also transferred Bishop Yang, 89, to an undisclosed location so that he would not be prevented from presiding at the ordination. “The current situation is a test for Fr Sun. If he succumbs to the government, it would split up the diocese as some priests accepted him only because it was the pope’s appointment,� a source said. Fr Sun was born in 1967. He entered the minor seminary in 1986 and the major seminary two years later. He was ordained a priest in 1995. He was appointed diocesan chancellor in 1997 and was vicar general from 20012005. He was elected coadjutor bishop in 2010. He has been a member of Handan city’s People’s Political Consultative Conference since 1998. A Church observer who requested anonymity said it is a “provident moment� and a good sign that the Church leaders deal with the episcopal ordination on their own as it is a strictly Church matter. „ UCANEWS.COM

Church concerned over Myanmar clashes MANDALAY – Church authori-

ties in the north of Myanmar are voicing concern over the safety RI SHRSOH Ă€HHLQJ FODVKHV EHWZHHQ government troops and ethnic Kachin rebels near the Chinese border. 7KH ÂżUVW SULRULW\ LV IRU SDUishes to coordinate their efforts and assist refugees in getting to safety; the second is providing aid to those coming to churches seeking help, a meeting between WKH ELVKRS DQG &KXUFK RIÂżFLDOV in Banmaw diocese concluded on June 16. “We’re urging parish priests to go among these people as we are the Good Shepherd and they

need our physical presence among them,� Bishop Raymond Sumlut Gam of Banmaw said. Fighting between government troops and the Kachin Independence Army broke out on June 9. Refugees have sought shelter in churches in the villages of Laiza, Loije and Man Win, while RWKHUV KDYH ÀHG DFURVV WKH &KLnese border, according to Kachin sources. Bishop Gam says the Church has supplies of food available at boarding schools should it be needed. The schools themselves KDYH FORVHG DV D UHVXOW RI WKH ¿JKWing. Concern is growing that the

.RUHDQ \RXWKV ÀJKW VXLFLGH SEOUL – Angels for Pro-Life,

a recently established teenage anti-suicide group, has staged a street campaign to try and reduce the numbers of youth suicides in South Korea. Seoul archdiocese’s One Body One Spirit Movement paraded through the capital’s Myeongdong shopping district on June 11 with the Catholic youth group to help them get their message across. Some 150 youths from various parishes around Seoul such as Moonjung2-dong and Gaepodong as well from some high schools participated in the event. The Suicide Prevention Centre of the One Body One Spirit Movement has been teaching youths to

respect life and ways of preventing suicides through a “class for lifeâ€? which began in March last year. Young people from around 10 schools in Seoul and Gyeonggi-do province joined the class. “Angels for Pro-Life will SOD\ D VLJQLÂżFDQW UROH LQ VXLFLGH prevention in each parish and school,â€? Sr Gloria Kim Bo-mi, director of the centre said. A national police agency report released earlier this month said South Korea has the highest suicide rate in the world. According to Statistics Korea, the teenage suicide rate in the country was 6.5 per 100,000 in 2009, up from 4.6 per 100,000 the previous year. „ UCANEWS.COM

clashes may escalate into a fullscale war. Meanwhile, the largest Kachin church in Myanmar, the Kachin Baptist Convention, has issued a statement urging members to pray for a resolution to the growing crisis in Kachin State. “Many places are threatened, people are living under hard conditions and tensions are increasing everywhere,� the statement said. „ UCANEWS.COM

Spratlys dispute MANILA – Filipino bishops have

called on countries claiming the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea to stop their “war of wordsâ€? and start formal talks over the issue. Bishop Pedro Arigo of Puerto Princesa said the government should initiate talks among all claimants of the disputed islands. They include China, Taiwan, Malaysia, the Philippines, Brunei and Vietnam. Most of them occupy one or more of the chain of tiny islands and reefs. “Let us act like civilised people and sit down and have a nice and formal talk between all the claimants,â€? the prelate said. “Engaging in public tirades will do nothing good,â€? he added. Bishop Deogracias IĂąiguez of Kalookan also called for calm and restraint on all parties. He said intimidation should be avoided. “We should always look for peaceful ways to resolve the matter. We owe it to our people and to the world to advocate and work for peace,â€? Bishop IĂąiguez said. “Always go for dialogue and QRW FRQĂ€LFWV ´ KH DGGHG Bishop Leonardo Medroso of Tagbilaran advised President Benigno Aquino to bring the issue to the United Nations. He said that although the PhilLSSLQHV FDQQRW ÂżJKW &KLQD WKH Aquino administration should show the courage to voice its claim. “We don’t have to be diplomatic about it, we just present to the higher court, before the UN, our right,â€? Bishop Medroso said. Tension heightened recently in the South China Sea after claimant countries complained that China has been behaving like a “bullyâ€?.

China, however, allayed fears that it would use its growing economic and military power to threaten its neighbours. Chinese defence minister Liang Guanglie earlier said “democracy in international relations� and respect for “each other’s core interests� are necessary to ensure peace. China has accused the Philippines of infringing its sovereignty by making “irresponsible� claims over the Spratlys.

Bishop Deogracias IĂąiguez Kalookan called for restraint.

of

Manila, however, is sticking to its position that China committed incursions in an undisputed territory at least six times this year. %LVKRS $ULJR VDLG ¿VKHUPHQ from his diocese are most affected E\ WKH RQJRLQJ WHUULWRULDO FRQÀLFW ³2XU ¿VKHUPHQ DUH RIWHQ shooed away by the Chinese when WKH\ JR WKHUH WR ¿VK VR ZH DUH hoping that this problem will be resolved sooner rather than later,� he said. „ UCANEWS.COM

12 WORLD

Sunday July 3, 2011 CatholicNews

Pope to be manga hero at WYD 32-page comic to be distributed during World Youth Day in Madrid WASHINGTON – 0RYH RYHU 6SL-

Cover of the Pope Benedict XVI manga comic book. CNS photos

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Jonathan Lin runs his company, Manga Hero, in the US.

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talking to my parents. And my dad, “whoI was actually grew up in Japan, asked me, ‘How come there’s no biblical manga?’ ”

– Jonathan Lin

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Smoke rises after NATO airstrikes in Tripoli on June 7. CNS photo

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WORLD 13

Sunday July 3, 2011 „ CatholicNews

9DWLFDQ FODULÀHV SHQDOW\ IRU LOOLFLW RUGLQDWLRQV VATICAN CITY – The Vatican said

bishops’ ordinations that are not authorised by the pope generally bring the penalty of automatic excommunication, but there can be mitigating circumstances – including fear of reprisal, necessity or serious inconvenience. 7KH FODULÂżFDWLRQ LVVXHG E\ WKH 3RQWLÂżFDO &RXQFLO IRU /HJLVODWLYH Texts, appeared to respond to the situation of recent ordinations of ELVKRSV LQ &KLQD DJDLQVW WKH RUders of Pope Benedict XVI. The text was published on June 10 by /Âś2VVHUYDWRUH 5RPDQR WKH 9DWLcan newspaper. ,Q &KLQD WKH PRVW UHFHQW RUdinations have involved bishops loyal to the Vatican, who were said to have been intimidated or forced to participate as ordaining ministers. The normal penalty for participation in such an ordination is automatic excommunication. 7KH 9DWLFDQ FODULÂżFDWLRQ VDLG that while unauthorised ordination is always a grave crime against &KXUFK ODZ DXWRPDWLF H[FRPPXnication would not apply in certain circumstances, in particular if the participating bishop acted “out of grave fear, even relatively grave, or out of necessity or out of serious inconvenienceâ€?. Such circumstances need to be YHULÂżHG DQG HYDOXDWHG IRU HDFK SDUticipant, it said, and in the end “each of them knows in their heart the degree of their personal involvementâ€? and therefore whether the penalty of excommunication applies. However, the Vatican added, WKH LVVXH GRHV QRW HQG WKHUH 2U-

daining bishops without a papal mandate is such a serious crime that the very act provokes scandal and confusion among the faithful, and this scandal must be repaired through acts of communion and penitence, it said. It said the participating bishops also need to explain their actions, and, in view of their exSODQDWLRQV WKH 9DWLFDQ PD\ ÂżQG itself in the position of having to censure them in some way.

While unauthorised ordination is always a grave crime against Church law, automatic excommunication would not apply in certain circumstances. If additional information arrives demonstrating culpability, the Vatican could later declare that a bishop had been excommunicated, or impose other sanctions, if this was deemed necessary to “repair the scandal and dissipate the confusion among the faithfulâ€?. 7KH VWDWHPHQW VDLG WKH &KXUFK considers excommunication a “medicinalâ€? punishment designed to motivate the guilty to repentDQFH Âł2QFH KH KDV GHPRQVWUDWHG that he is sincerely repentant, the person acquires the right to be absolved of the excommunication,â€? it said. „ CNS

14 LETTERS/OPINION

Sunday July 3, 2011 CatholicNews

Listening to Christ’s heartbeat

Fortnightly newspaper of the Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore

2 Highland Road, #01-03 Singapore 549102. Telephone: 6858 3055. Fax: 6858 2055. Website: www.catholicnews.sg MANAGING EDITOR: Father Johnson Fernandez: johfern@catholic.org.sg

IN MEMORIAM: Susan Lim: memoriam@catholic.org.sg

ASSISTANT EDITOR: Christopher Khoo: chriskhoo@catholic.org.sg

SUBSCRIPTIONS: Richard Paul: subscriptions@catholic.org.sg

STAFF CORRESPONDENT: Darren Boon: darrenboon@catholic.org.sg

ADVERTISEMENTS: Elaine Ong: advertisements@catholic.org.sg WEBMASTER: Medona Walter: medona@catholic.org.sg

EDITORIAL MATTERS: cnedit@catholic.org.sg

Please include your full name, address and phone no. for all articles and letters. Published submissions will be edited.

DESIGN / LAYOUT: Christopher Wong: design@catholic.org.sg Elaine Ong: elong@catholic.org.sg

Designing ‘culturally relevant’ church Photo: FR JOACHIM CHANG

I refer to the article, St Joseph Church Undergoes Major Renovations (CN, June 19). I read with great joy how the parish church that served my formative years will undergo major renovations after nearly 50 years since its completion. In light of the changes to the sanctuary and other parts of the nave, I wish to highlight the importance of maintaining continuity with Catholic tradition and the parish’s Chinese-inspired architectural designs. It is most unfortunate that in remodelling themselves, many parishes (especially those historical ones) suffer from a discontinuity from the original architectural inspirations. This discontinuity extends to certain pieces of liturgical furniture as well and not just the overall building design. One does not QHHG WR EH D TXDOL¿HG GHVLJQHU RU architect to point out inconsistencies in numerous parishes. What makes our Catholic tradition rich is her 2,000 years of continuity. Continuity is important to underscore the Church Militant’s union with the Church Suffering and Church Triumphant. As Catholics, we are blessed to stand on the strong shoulders of those who have gone before us marked with the sign of faith. We need to cherish the blessed memory of Christians and their contributions in making the Church what she is today. St Joseph Church should retain its Chinese-architectural origins and, in

St Joseph Church should ‘retain its Chinese-architectural origins’.

fact, use this time of major renovations to emphasise the parish’s unique beginnings. The increasing number of mainland Chinese in Singapore should also give the Church a heightened awareness of the importance of showcasing the Catholic Church as a truly catholic (universal) religion meant for all humankind, not just Romans and other Western cultures. A well-balanced St Joseph Church will be most welcoming to mainland Chinese as well as Chinese converts from traditional Chinese forms of worship.

Such a church will be a silent declaration that the Church’s mission is not to eradicate culture or impose Western concepts and ideologies, but embrace all men and women in Christ’s universal bond of love. With this simple letter, I hope that those in the design committee will bear in mind the importance of architectural continuity and be mindful of designing a church that will be culturally relevant. Paul Molina Singapore 510740

About pastoral care in hospitals Recently, my father was warded for pneumonia and the next day being a Friday, I looked at the Church directory to see which church I could approach to administer the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. I left a voice mail at one church and subsequently called the church. I was totally taken aback when I was told that the

priest would only go down when the patient was in ICU or dying, and this makes me wonder what is happening to this ministry. I was also told that I should contact his parish priest instead. I had a similar experience about three to four years ago when a friend sought my help. When I contacted the parish nearest to the hospital, I was rejected as well.

I know that all our priests are overworked, but if this sacrament is administered systematically, I am sure our hospitalised Catholics, whether they are dying or not, can be rightfully given the sacrament. I hope the Catholic Church can relook its policies. David Soh Poh Huat Singapore 520341

THE last supper account in John’s Gospel gives us a wonderful mystical image. The evangelist describes the beloved disciple as reclining on the breast of Jesus. What’s contained in this image? A number of things: First, when you put your head upon someone else’s chest, your ear is just above that person’s heart and you are able to hear his or her heartbeat. Hence, in John’s image, we see the beloved disciple with his ear on Jesus’ heart, hearing Jesus’ heartbeat, and from that perspective looking out into the world. This is John’s ultimate image for discipleship: The ideal disciple is the one who is attuned to Christ’s heartbeat and sees the world with that sound in his or her ear. Then there is a second level to the image: It is an icon of peace, a child at its mother’s breast, contented, satiated, calm, free of tension, not wanting to be anywhere else. This is an image of primal intimacy, of symbiotic oneness, a connection deeper than romantic love. And for John, it is also a Eucharistic image. What we see in this image of a person with his ear on Jesus’ heart, is how John wants us to imagine ourselves when we are at Eucharist because, ultimately, that is what the Eucharist is, a physical reclining on the breast of Christ. In the Eucharist, Jesus gives us, physically, a breast to lean on, to nurture at, to feel safe and secure at, and from which to see the world. Finally, this is also an image of how we should touch God and be sustained by Him in solitude. Henri Nouwen once said: “By touching the centre of our solitude, we sense that we have been touched by loving hands.” Deep inside each of us, like a brand, there is a place where God has touched, caressed, and kissed us. Long before memory, long before we ever remember touching or loving or kissing anyone or anything, or being touched by anything or anybody in this world, there is a different kind of memory, the memory of being gently touched by loving hands. When our ear is pressed to God’s heart – to the breast of all that is good, true, and beautiful – we hear a certain heartbeat and we remember, remember in some inchoate place, at a level beyond thought, that we were once gently kissed by God. Archetypally this is what’s deepest within us. There is an ancient legend which holds that when an infant is created, God kisses its soul and sings to it. As its guardian angel carries it to earth to join its body, she also sings to it. The legend says that God’s kiss and His song, as well as the song of the angel, remain in that soul forever – to be called up, cherished, shared and to become the basis of all of our songs. But to feel that kiss, to hear that song, requires solitude. You do not feel gentleness when inside of you and all around you there is noise, abrasiveness, anger, bitterness, jealousy, competitiveness, and paranoia. The sound of God’s heartbeat is audible only in a certain solitude and in the gentleness it brings. -RKQ RI WKH &URVV RQFH GH¿QHG VROLWXGH DV ³EULQJLQJ WKH PLOG LQWR harmony with the mild”. That was his way of saying that we will begin to remember the primordial touch of God when, through solitude, we empty our hearts of all that is not mild, namely, noise, anger, bitterness, and jealousy. When we become mild we will remember that we have been touched by loving hands and, like the beloved disciple, we will then have our ear to the heartbeat of Christ. Thus, inside each of us there is a church, an oratory, a place of worship, a sanctuary not made by human hands. And it is a gentle place, a virgin place, a holy place, a place where there is no anger, no sense of being cheated, no need to be competitive and no need to be restless. It is a soft place; but it can be violated, through a giving of oneself that does not respect oneself, and, especially, through lying and rationalising and the cauterisation, warping, and hardening of heart that follows upon that. Conversely, though, it is also a place that can remain inviolate, sacred, and untouched, even when abused and violated. It is in that place, entered into through solitude and gentleness of spirit, that we have a privileged access to God because that is the place where God has already touched us and where we, however dimly, remember that. We were once touched by hands far gentler and more loving than our own. The memory of that touch is a brand – warm, dark, gentle. To enter that memory is to lean on the breast of Christ, just as the beloved apostle did at the last supper. From that place, with our ear on Christ’s heart, we have the truest perspective on our world.

LETTERS/OPINION 15

Sunday July 3, 2011 „ CatholicNews

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Help save the forests By Anne Lim

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Page 18: Corpus Christi feature

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Pope Benedict XVI and his personal secretary, Msgr Georg Ganswein, walking through the forest of Rocca di Mezzo in central Italy. Without forests, there would be no life on Earth. &16 ¿OH SKRWR

16 PILGRIMAGES

Sunday July 3, 2011 CatholicNews

Memorable pilgrimage to Lourdes and Nevers St Bernadette Church’s Emmanuel Choir journeyed to sacred sites in France recently. They share their experience. A DREAM to sing the Hymn to St Bernadette before the saint’s incorrupt body became reality for members of a parish choir recently. The Church of St Bernadette’s Emmanuel Choir sang this special hymn, which has been in the parish’s possession for decades, at the Nevers Convent Chapel during their May 8-20 pilgrimage to France. In 2009, choir administrator Monica Lee had told members, “We will organise a Thanksgiving Singing Pilgrimage to Lourdes and Nevers, in conjunction with the 150th anniversary of the apparitions of our Blessed Virgin Mary to St Bernadette and the 50th anniversary of the building of the Church of St Bernadette in Singapore.” Thus began two years of preparatory work. The choir invited MEP priest Fr Rene Nicolas, the church’s former assistant parish priest in the 1960s, to be their spiritual director for the pilgrimage.

The choir in front of the Apparitions Chapel of St Margaret Mary Cathedral at Paray-leMonial.

The French priest planned the itinerary meticulously. A total of 35 people made the pilgrimage, which included Lourdes and several other pilgrimage sites. It was a trip that the choir members, who ranged in age from 30 to 77 years, would treasure for the rest of their lives. The choir travelled to places such as the Miraculous Medal Cathedral housing the incorrupt body of St Catherine Laboure, Chartes Cathedral, Rocamadour with its famed Black Virgin Statue Abbey and the Albi Cathedral of St Cecilia (patroness of musicians). The pilgrims also visited the Cathedral of Le-Puy, Cathedral of St Etienne, Paray-le-Monial Cathedral of St Margaret Mary, where the choir attended Mass at the Apparitions Chapel. They also visited the Trappist Monastery of Sept-Fons, where the choir was invited to an afternoon tea of special bread and honey made by the monks themselves.

The choir taking part in the candlelit Rosary procession in Lourdes.

In Lourdes, the choir sang the special Hymn to St Bernadette during the Rosary procession, apparHQWO\ WKH ¿UVW FKRLU ZRUOGZLGH WR do so. At the end of the procession, the French choral director there asked for a copy of the music score. The choir was also invited to join the International Choral Group on stage to recite the Rosary. Five choir members led the Hail Mary in Mandarin. Petition letters from parishioners, collected by the choir, were also offered up at Lourdes. When the choir returned to Singapore, “parishioners came to thank us, for their petitions were answered by the grace of God”, said choirmaster John Lee. At Nevers, the choir song the Hymn to St Bernadette in front of her incorrupt body during Mass. The nuns there received a copy of the music score in English and French from the choir. The choir also had the privilege of staying at the Nevers Convent. From Nevers, the group made its way to Alencon and Mont-StMichel and visited the Tomb of St Therese of the Child Jesus at the Carmelite Convent at Lisieux. Many pilgrims said attending daily Mass, celebrated by Fr Nicolas at special shrines and basilicas, were moving experiences for them. “I could not have imagined attending Mass at the Apparition Chapel at St Margaret Mary Cathedral,” where Jesus appeared to the saint, said Ms Jennifer Watt, 71. Mr Fred Ang, 77, said he was impressed with the visit to the shrine of Our Lady of Rocamadour, located in an abbey 125 m above the river Alzou, and which could be reached through a stairway of 216 steps. According to legend, the hermit Zaccheus of Jericho brought a statue of the Black Virgin to this shrine, where many miraculous healings and conversions were ex-

The incorrupt body of St Bernadette in the Nevers Convent Chapel. Photo taken with permission.

perienced by numerous pilgrims. From the 12th century onwards, it became one of the most popular pilgrimages in the whole of Christian Europe. Another pilgrim, Ms Joyce Poon, 36, shared, “The show of faith by the pilgrims at Lourdes during the candlelight Rosary procession, the nightly Blessed Sacrament procession, the Way of the Cross and the Bath, revitalised my own faith and love of the Lord.” “I am so happy to spend precious quiet moments at the Convent Chapel at Nevers, praying to our patroness St Bernadette,” recalled Mrs Lennie, 60. “The serene look of St Bernadette is so lifelike as if she is sleeping. I

prayed for my family and for the parish.” “The Walk of St Bernadette at the Nevers Convent, where we traced her daily life at the convent, helped me to understand and know better the humility of St Bernadette and the sufferings that she has gone through,” said Cecilia Yeo, 64. The pilgrims also did their part to evangelise. “We sang the grace before meals alternately in Mandarin and English,” said Mr Johann Wong, 31, “and this surprised the diners wherever we went.” Wong added that this was part and parcel of evangelisation, as mentioned by parish priest Fr Eugene Chong.

show of faith by the pilgrims ‘atThe Lourdes during the candlelight Rosary procession, the nightly Blessed Sacrament procession, the Way of the Cross and the Bath, revitalised my own faith and love of the Lord.

’

– Ms Joyce Poon

PILGRIMAGES 17

Sunday July 3, 2011 „ CatholicNews

Walking in the footsteps of St Francis of Assisi 6W 0DU\ RI WKH $QJHOV SDULVKLRQHUV DWWHQGHG 3RSH -RKQ 3DXO¡V EHDWLĂ€FDWLRQ DQG YLVLWHG )UDQFLVFDQ VLWHV

St Mary of the Angels parishioners at a papal audience in Rome.

By Friar Derrick Yap and Vivien Lee Pope John Paul II, the “pilgrim popeâ€?, visited more than 120 counWULHV GXULQJ KLV WHUP RI RIÂżFH +H clearly left a lasting impression during his 1986 trip to Singapore, judging from the animated retellings of the visit by Church of St Mary of the Angels parishioners, who were LQ 5RPH IRU KLV EHDWLÂżFDWLRQ Many of the 84 pilgrims from the parish, who had signed up for the April 24-May 7 Franciscan Pilgrimage to Italy, shared simiODU VHQWLPHQWV ZLWK 0U 1RHO +RQ ZKR LV LQ KLV HDUO\ V Âł+DYLQJ been touched by his love, I felt FDOOHG WR ZLWQHVV WKH EHDWLÂżFDWLRQ ´ 7KH EHDWLÂżFDWLRQ 0DVV DW WKH Vatican on May 1 was one of many highlights of the pilgrimage led by Friars John-Paul Tan and 'HUULFN <DS The experience entailed a long wait in the blistering hot sun with a

FUXVKLQJ FURZG RI PLOOLRQ 7KH experience gave one a real sense of the universality of the Catholic IDLWK ZKLFK ZDV EHLQJ FHOHEUDWHG “It’s nice to see people from around the world, speaking different languages, coming together as one to celebrate the joyous occaVLRQ ´ VDLG 0U 'DQQ\ <DS :KLOH WKH EHDWLÂżFDWLRQ ZDV D highlight of the pilgrimage, it was the visits to the various places associated with St Francis of Assisi ZKLFK LQVSLUHG SUD\HU DQG UHĂ€HFWLRQ “By seeing and praying at the caves and places where Francis lived, prayed, worked and died; one gets a better sense of Francis’s experience of God and how that experience of God continues to impact the people of today,â€? said )ULDU -RKQ 3DXO La Verna – the Sanctuary of the Stigmata illustrates well God’s GHVLUH WR WRXFK XV 7KLV ZDV ZKHUH St Francis received the wounds of Christ after having prayed for

himself to know the physical pain of Christ and to experience the love which enabled Christ to emEUDFH VXIIHULQJ Whilst not many of us can identify with Francis’ impassionate plea to suffer, walking up towards the property, one feels God’s SUHVHQFH HYHU VR VWURQJO\ 7KH VRIW and willowy quality of the beech trees speak of a quiet assurance that God is present no matter what RQHœV FLUFXPVWDQFHV DUH At Mass, we were again reminded of the Cross as an act of UHGHPSWLYH ORYH Francis was a real person, in ORYH ZLWK *RG +H ZDQWHG WR NQRZ who God is, who he himself is, DQG ZKR *RG LV IRU KLP )RU WKLV he dedicated much of his time to prayer, in the sanctuaries of Poggio Bustone, La Foresta, Greccio and )RQWH &RORPER LQ WKH 5LHWL 9DOOH\ The bare rock of the caves which Francis retreated into spoke of a poverty of spirit which evoked an understanding of his

Thinking and ‘acting out of the box in his time, Francis stuck to his calling and spirituality.

’

– Ms Bailyne Sung Friar John-Paul Tan speaking at the Eremo delle Carceri hermitage in Assisi.

La Verna, where St Francis received the wounds of Christ.

GHHS \HDUQLQJV 7KLV VHUYHG DV D reminder for us to ask the same questions which he asked and to offer a humble prayer asking for RXU RZQ \HDUQLQJV WR EH VDWLV¿HG The natural beauty of the Rieti Valley profoundly evoked the feeling of being connected with WKH VSLULW RI 6W )UDQFLV 7R EH DEOH to say our morning and evening prayers under glorious blue skies DQG DPLG UROOLQJ ¿HOGV RI DOO KXHV of green, yellow and red was an invitation to see the Lord where ZH VHOGRP VHH To sing Francis’ famed Canticle of the Sun while savouring the Lord’s creations was a privilege in itself – we had become privy to that Spirit which moved FranFLV ,W ZDV QR ZRQGHU WKDW )UDQFLV was absorbed in writing what is perhaps his most important work here – the rule of the Franciscan Order which 800 years later is still NHSW E\ WKH IULDUV All of this brings about a new respect for the majesty of Brother Mountain which inspires through WKH PDQ\ JLIWV LW RIIHUV Of the many churches visited, St Mary of the Angels and Basilica of St Clare complete the Fran-

FLVFDQ VWRU\ ZHOO 6W 0DU\ RI WKH $QJHOV ZDV ZKHUH LW DOO VWDUWHG ,W houses the Porziuncola, the chapel which St Francis restored after having heard Jesus urging him to ÂłUHVWRUH P\ FKXUFK´ One cannot help but offer a prayer with a sense of anticipation before the original San Damiano cross from which Francis heard these words, and which today hangs DW WKH %DVLOLFD GL 6DQWD &KLDUD It calls forth awe in the power of the cross in fuelling spiritual WUDQVIRUPDWLRQ As pilgrims having spent time in a period of sacred wandering, the next step is to respond couraJHRXVO\ DV )UDQFLV GLG As one pilgrim, Ms Bailyne Sung, aptly summed it up: “Thinking and acting out of the box in his time, Francis stuck to his calling DQG VSLULWXDOLW\ ´ We have seen through the example of Francis that life is a journey which must be embraced ZLWK D OHDS RI IDLWK 7KLV LV EXW WKH beginnings of being more alive now in living out our Franciscan heritage; in deepening our sense of fraternity and embracing creaWLRQ WR UHĂ€HFW WKH IDFH RI *RG „

18 CORPUS CHRISTI FEATURE

Sunday July 3, 2011 „ CatholicNews

Power of the Eucharist By Fr John Catoir Normally, people of faith have quiet minds because they put their trust in the supernatural power of Jesus. This faith gives them a gentle peace, and they manage to persevere through the storms of life, overcoming their fears. 6XFK SHRSOH ÂżQG -HVXV PRVW perfectly in the Eucharist. Those who succumb to their doubts often enter a dark world alone with their fears. They lose their spiritual centre and journey unprotected through the darkness. Some Catholics think they have serious doubts about the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist, but a person is only in real doubt when he or she withholds assent or suspends belief. Most do not enter into a state of disbelief; they merely experience the discomfort of trying to understand such a profound mystery. There is an old adage that a WKRXVDQG GLIÂżFXOWLHV GR QRW PDNH a single doubt. This is true; no one fully comprehends the sacred mysteries of our faith. All we can do is try to grasp the facts that surround the mystery. Pope John Paul II put it well when he wrote his encyclical on the Eucharist (Ecclesia de Eu-

charistia): “Every commitment to holiness, every activity aimed at carrying out the Church’s mission ... must draw the strength it needs from the Eucharistic mystery. ... In the Eucharist we have Jesus, ZH KDYH KLV UHGHPSWLYH VDFULÂżFH we have his resurrection, we have the gift of the Holy Spirit, we have

The Eucharist is more precious to us than all the world’s riches because it nourishes us for our life’s journey and prepares us for heaven. adoration, obedience and love of the Father. Were we to disregard the Eucharist, how could we overFRPH RXU RZQ GHÂżFLHQF\"´ This faith awareness has been the belief of Catholics for more than 2,000 years. It is a belief more precious to us than all the riches of the world because it heals and nourishes us for our journey in this life and prepares us for our life with God in heaven. St Augustine recommended

that we practise the presence of God every day. He said that when we converted to Christianity, we did not merely become Christians, we became Christ! St Paul put it this way, “In Him we live and move and have RXU EHLQJ ´ $FWV

The celebration of Mass is more than a ritual; it produces the Eucharist and gives us a form of spiritual union with the Divine Presence. Though we do not fully understand the mystery, we know that we are receiving healing, forgiveness and salvation. A French Carmelite monk named Br Lawrence excelled in practising the presence of God. He did it constantly while performing the most menial tasks at the monastery. He was known for his ability to abide in Christ and to live joyfully because of the NQRZOHGJH RI *RGœV LQ¿QLWH ORYH When Jesus announced Himself as the privileged channel of communication with God in KHDYHQ ZH DOO EHFDPH WKH EHQH¿ciaries of this extraordinary supernatural presence and power. Catholics believe that Jesus leads us to the Father through the Eucharist. By uniting our crosses with His, we become the mystical body of Christ. „ CNS

Sunday July 3, 2011 „ CatholicNews

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Sunday July 3, 2011 „ CatholicNews

CHILDREN’S STORY:

By Joe Sarnicola JESUS spoke to the large crowd of people that had been searching for Him. The news had spread that Jesus had fed thousands of people with RQO\ ÂżYH EDUOH\ ORDYHV DQG WZR ÂżVK and more people wanted to see this man who performed such miracles. “Do not work for food that perishes but for the food that endures IRU HWHUQDO OLIH ZKLFK WKH 6RQ RI 0DQ ZLOO JLYH \RX ´ -HVXV VDLG 6RPHRQH LQ WKH FURZG DVNHG “What can we do to accomplish the ZRUNV RI *RG"´ -HVXV DQVZHUHG Âł7KLV LV WKH ZRUN RI *RG WKDW \RX EHOLHYH LQ WKH RQH KH VHQW ´ The people reminded Jesus that their ancestors ate manna from KHDYHQ ZKHQ WKH\ ZHUH KXQJU\ LQ WKH ZLOGHUQHVV DQG +H UHSOLHG

Âł$PHQ DPHQ , VD\ WR \RX LW ZDV QRW 0RVHV ZKR JDYH WKH EUHDG IURP KHDYHQ P\ )DWKHU JLYHV \RX WKH WUXH EUHDG IURP KHDYHQ )RU WKH EUHDG RI God is that which comes down from KHDYHQ DQG JLYHV OLIH WR WKH ZRUOG ´ Âł6LU JLYH XV WKLV EUHDG DOZD\V ´ they said. Âł, DP WKH EUHDG RI OLIH ZKRHYHU FRPHV WR PH ZLOO QHYHU KXQJHU DQG ZKRHYHU EHOLHYHV LQ 0H ZLOO QHYHU WKLUVW ´ -HVXV DQVZHUHG There were some Jews in the crowd who were angered by what Jesus had said. They asked each RWKHU Âł,V WKLV QRW -HVXV WKH VRQ RI Joseph? Do we not know His father DQG PRWKHU" 7KHQ KRZ FDQ +H VD\ Âľ, KDYH FRPH GRZQ IURP KHDYHQÂś"´ -HVXV ZKR ZDV DOZD\V DZDUH RI ZKDW SHRSOH ZHUH WKLQNLQJ VDLG “Stop murmuring among yourVHOYHV <RXU DQFHVWRUV DWH WKH

PDQQD LQ WKH GHVHUW EXW WKH\ GLHG this is the bread that comes down IURP KHDYHQ VR WKDW RQH PD\ HDW LW DQG QRW GLH , DP WKH OLYLQJ EUHDG WKDW FDPH GRZQ IURP KHDYHQ ZKRHYHU HDWV WKLV EUHDG ZLOO OLYH IRUHYHU DQG WKH EUHDG WKDW , ZLOO JLYH LV P\ Ă€HVK IRU WKH OLIH RI WKH ZRUOG ´ $JDLQ WKH -HZV DUJXHG RYHU WKH PHDQLQJ RI -HVXVÂś ZRUGV VR -HVXV WROG WKHP Âł:KRHYHU HDWV P\ Ă€HVK DQG GULQNV P\ EORRG KDV HWHUQDO OLIH DQG , ZLOO UDLVH KLP RQ WKH ODVW GD\

)RU P\ Ă€HVK LV WUXH IRRG DQG P\ EORRG LV WUXH GULQN :KRHYHU HDWV P\ Ă€HVK DQG GULQNV P\ EORRG UHPDLQV LQ PH DQG , LQ KLP ´ „ Read more about it: John 6 Q&A 1. What did Jesus say about the bread of life? 2. What happened to the ancestors who ate the manna from heaven?

SPOTLIGHT ON SAINTS:

St Cyril of Alexandria &\ULO RI $OH[DQGULD KDV EHHQ FDOOHG WKH ÂłGRFWRU RI WKH ,QFDUQDWLRQ´ and also was respected for being a religious scholar. He studied the Scriptures GHHSO\ EXW KH DOVR UHDG WKH ZRUNV RI ZULWHUV ZKRVH RSLQLRQV KH VWURQJO\ disagreed with. :KHQ KH ZDV SURPRWHG WR WKH 6HH RI $OH[DQGULD KH FORVHG VRPH RI WKH FKXUFKHV DQG VHL]HG WKHLU VDFUHG YHVVHOV &\ULO VHQW D OHWWHU RI FULWLFLVP WR D priest named Nestorius for teaching a doctrine that did not appear to agree ZLWK WKH &KXUFKÂśV SRVLWLRQ 7KH SULHVW EHFDPH DQJU\ DQG FRQWLQXHG WR WHDFK KLV WKHRULHV 7KH WZR PHQ ZHUH EURXJKW LQ IURQW RI WKH SRSH ZKR DJUHHG ZLWK &\ULO EXW 1HVWRULXV VWLOO UHIXVHG WR FKDQJH 7KH DUJXPHQW ZDV KHDUG DW WKH WKLUG JHQHUDO FRXQFLO LQ (SKHVXV DQG 1HVWRULXV ZDV DJDLQ IRXQG WR EH WHDFKLQJ IDXOW\ GRFWULQH +H ZDV HYHQWXDOO\ H[LOHG &\ULO ZDV QDPHG D GRFWRU RI WKH XQLYHUVDO FKXUFK LQ :H KRQRXU KLP RQ -XQH „

Bible Accent:

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_____ _____ ______ ______ _____

BIBLE TRIVIA: What is the first book of the Old Testament that bears a person’s name?

Answers to Heavenly Signs: smile, help, give, laugh, love, pray, share

,Q HDFK RI WKH IROORZLQJ OLQHV DUH three names. The first two names each contain a letter that the third name GRHV QRW :ULWH WKDW OHWWHU LQ WKH EODQN then unscramble those letters to find a P\VWHU\ QDPH ([DPSOH 7KH OHWWHU J LV LQ *RG DQG *LGHRQ EXW QRW LQ $PRV

Answers to puzzle: 1. e, 2. p, 3. e, 4. r, 5. t. Mystery name: Peter.

PUZZLE

Answer to Bible Trivia: Joshua.

Throughout the New Testament there are PDQ\ QDPHV RU WLWOHV JLYHQ WR -HVXV VRPH of which were used by Jesus himself. ,Q WRGD\ÂśV VWRU\ -HVXV VDLG WKDW KH ZDV ÂłWKH OLYLQJ EUHDG´ ,Q -RKQÂśV *RVSHO DORQH WKHUH DUH VHYHUDO QDPHV EHJLQQLQJ ZLWK &KDSWHU ZKHQ -RKQ WDONV DERXW WKH :RUG RI *RG 2WKHU WLWOHV DUH ÂłWKH *RRG 6KHSKHUG´ DQG ÂłWKH /DPE RI *RG´ -HVXV WROG XV WKDW +H LV ÂłWKH ZD\ DQG WKH WUXWK DQG WKH OLIH´ DQG +H DOVR VDLG Âł, DP ´ :KHQ -HVXV ZDV FUXFLÂżHG 3LODWH KDG D VLJQ SRVWHG RQ WKH FURVV RI -HVXV WKDW UHDG ÂłWKH .LQJ RI WKH -HZV´ 7ZR RI -HVXVÂś PRVW LPSRUWDQW WLWOHV DUH ÂłWKH 6RQ RI *RG´ DQG ÂłWKH UHVXUUHFWLRQ DQG WKH OLIH´ &DQ \RX WKLQN RI QDPHV IRU -HVXV WKDW DUH IRXQG LQ VRPH RI WKH RWKHU books of the Bible? „

WHAT’S ON 21

Sunday July 3, 2011 „ CatholicNews

EVENT SUBMISSIONS We welcome information of events happening in our local Church. Please send your submission at least one month before the event. Online submissions can be made at www.catholic.sg/webevent_form.php June 27 SOLEMN MASS IN HONOUR OF ST JOSEMARIA ESCRIVA 7.30pm: Confessions will be heard from 6.15pm. Main celebrant: Archbishop Nicholas Chia. At Church of the Holy Spirit. Tuesdays, June 28 to July 26 BITE SIZED TALKS – CHRISTIAN PASTORAL RESPONSE 8-10pm: In today’s society, we are faced with many social issues, challenges and GLI¿FXOWLHV /LVWHQ OHDUQ DQG TXHVWLRQ Christian professionals from various ¿HOGV RQ WKH &KULVWLDQ SDVWRUDO UHVSRQVH WR some of these topics, such as responding to addictions, meaningful retirement and overcoming challenges in today’s families. At Church of St Mary of the Angels. W: http://www.stmary.sg/bite-sized July 1-2 DE LA SALLE SCHOOL’S NOAH THE MUSICAL De La Salle School’s 8th musical production, Noah the Musical, in aid of School Building Fund. Tickets at $20 and $35. July 1 (6.30pm), July 2 (7.30pm). At Anglo Chinese Junior College Theatre. Tickets T: 6766 7675. July 1 to July 3 MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER WEEKEND 8.30pm (Fri) – 6pm (Sun): An enrichment programme for all married couples: It has been said that the greatest gift you can give your children is to love their mother/ father. At ME House (201B Punggol 17th Avenue). T: 9670 5390 (Vincent/Julyn); W: http://www.MEsingapore.com July 2 LABYRINTH RETREAT 2.30-630pm: By Edwina Yeow. At Lifesprings Canossian Spirituality Centre (100 Jalan Merbok).T: 6466 2178 (Brenda); E: lifsprng@singnet.com.sg. July 3 FORUM ON REACHING OUT TO CHINESE MIGRANT WORKERS 2-4pm: Understand Chinese migrants better as well as communicate more effectively with them. In English and Mandarin. By Commission for Apostolate of Mandarin-speaking in Singapore. At Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary (Green House, next to main church). T: 8118 1537 (John), 9818 4769 (Joseph); E: john3744@msn.com Mondays July 4 to October 10 ALPHA COURSE IN SHENTON WAY 12.30-1.30pm: Alpha in the Workplace @ Shenton Way is for anyone who wants to explore the Christian faith in a friendly, non-threatening and enjoyable setting. The programme has transformed the lives of many Christians who developed a deeper relationship with Jesus through an Alpha journey. Lunch provided. By Catholic Prayer Society. At 206/208 Telok

Ayer St. SMS: 8524 6017 (Michael); E: alphacac@catholic.org Wednesdays, July 6 to Nov 23 GOD’S COVENANTAL LOVE THROUGH THE AGES 7.45-9.45pm: Journey through the Bible with Fr Aloysius Ong. At Catholic Archdiocesan Education Centre (2 Highland Rd) Register T: 6858 3011 (Anna); E: admin@catholicspi.org Fridays, July 8 to July 29 FOUR FRIDAYS ONE LIVING FAITH 7.30-10pm: Join Fr David Garcia and the Lay Dominicans for sessions on VSLULWXDOLW\ RI WKH ODLW\ WR ¿QG RXW KRZ Jesus, through His Church, invites us to a faith that helps our life and equips us with the graces we need to do all things well. Register T: 9363 4668 (Anna); E: LayDominicans@gmail.com July 8 to 10 TASTE AND SEE: A RESIDENTIAL SILENT RETREAT FOR FIRST TIMERS 8pm (Fri) – 6pm (Sun): An introduction to silent retreats in the Ignatian tradition for those who want to experience God through meditation on the word of God. Come and explore what awareness, meditation, and quiet can offer. Oneto-one spiritual direction available. Contribution: $70 (non-aircon); $120 (aircon. At Kingsmead Hall (8 Victoria Park Rd). T. 64676072; F: 64687584; E:cisc2664@gmail.com July 9 TOWARDS INNER FREEDOM WITH CHOICE THEORY 2-5pm: By Sr Louisa Lim, fdcc. Cost: $20. At Lifesprings Canossian Spirituality Centre (100 Jalan Merbok).T: 6466 2178 (Brenda); E: lifsprng@singnet.com.sg. July 9 MEDITATIVE PRAYER WITH THE SONGS OF TAIZE 8-9.30pm: At the Armenian Church of St Gregory (60 Hill St). All are welcome. July 10 PRISONS WEEK 11.30am: Mass celebrated by Archbishop Nicholas Chia at Church of Divine Mercy. Also, a time of prayer for the prisoners, ex-prisoners and their families. Monday July 11 to Thursday July 14 NTU/NIE CATHOLIC STUDENTS’ APOSTOLATE FRESHMEN ORIENTATION CAMP 11am (Tue) – 6pm (Fri): Calling all freshmen entering NTU/NIE this coming academic year. Come, meet and make lasting friendships at the NTU/NIE CSA Freshmen Orientation Camp. By NTU/NIE Catholic Students Society. At Aloha Loyang. T: 8228 3080 (Carmen), 9232 5283 (Don), 9649 9708 (Colin); E: ntucsafoc@gmail.com; W: http://bit.ly/ntucsa Tuesdays, July 12 to August 23 BIOETHICS – EMBRACING THE GIFT OF LIFE 7.30-9.30pm: In the 3rd core module of Personal Compass Navigating Ethical Ambiguity, Fr David Garcia addresses the ethics of life issues such as cloning, IVF, euthanasia, and, interestingly, plastic surgery. By Wonderfully Made. Cost: $80 ($70 register by June 28). At CWS

Auditorium (55 Waterloo St 8th Floor). T: 6858 7012 (Janice); E: janice@catholicspi.org , W: http://www.wonderfully-made.org, http://www.catholicspi.org Wednesdays, July 13 to September 7 JEFF CAVIN’S A QUICK JOURNEY THROUGH THE BIBLE 7.30-9.30pm: 8 sessions of Jeff Cavin’s A Quick Journey Through the Bible. Easy to follow. All are welcome. Cost: $20. At Church of Sts Peter and Paul (Level 3 Chapel). E: henrywu@lucas.com.sg

A journey in faith for those seeking to know more about the Catholic faith. Baptised Catholics are also invited to journey as sponsors. Sundays from June 12 MANDARIN RCIA@CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF PERPETUAL SUCCOUR 9-10.30am: At 31 Siglap Hill. T: 9683 0668 (Joan), 9891 6648 (Regina); E: xiaoying84@hotmail.com Tuesdays from June 14 RCIA@CHURCH OF ST IGNATIUS 8-10pm: All sessions conducted by Fr Philip Heng, SJ. T: 9630 8346 (Terese) Wednesdays from June 22 RCIA@CHURCH OF THE HOLY FAMILY 7.30-9.30pm: Gatherings to be held on Wednesdays. Additional Sunday meetings (11am-12.30pm) from September. T: 9666 6542 Mondays from June 27 RCIA@ST JOSEPH CHURCH BT TIMAH 8-10pm: At 620 Upper Bt Timah Rd.

July 16 COPING WITH CANCER FOR CAREGIVERS 10am-2pm: Dr Anna Leybina (Psychology Lecturer) will talk about tools that modern psychology has provided to help caregivers take better care of themselves and how they can better deal with the wider society which may not comprehend the struggles and challenges of being caregivers. Lunch provided. By Life in the Vine, Cancer Support Group. At Church of the Holy Spirit (Room A2-01). T: 9863 1470 (Elaine), 9663 5256 (Adrian); E: vine.csg@gmail.com

July 13 LITTLE SINGERS OF MONACO CONCERT IN AID OF CATHEDRAL RESTORATION FUND 7.30pm: The famed Little Singers of Monaco will return for a one-night only Charity Concert in association with the Consulate of Monaco. Sacred and secular choral works from Renaissance to modern times, from masters including Bach, Mendelssohn and Rachmaninov. Concert in aid of Cathedral of Good Shepherd Restoration Fund. Cheque and cash donation at event, or advanced donation with reserved seats (subject to availability). T: 6337 2036 (Irene)

July 16 UNDERSTANDING OUR THOUGHTS AND EMOTIONS 2-5pm: Where do our thoughts and emotions come from and how do they LQĂ€XHQFH RQH DQRWKHU By Sr Elizabeth Sim. Cost: $40 (with tea). At Lifesprings Canossian Spirituality Centre (100 Jalan Merbok).T: 6466 2178 (Brenda); E: lifsprng@singnet.com.sg.

Fridays, July 15 to August 12 PASS IT ON – A CAFE PROGRAMME 7.45-9.30pm: Learn how to spread Jesus’ love. Video talks by Michelle Moran – world renowned UK evangelist and PHPEHU RI WKH 3RQWL¿FDO &RXQFLO RI the Laity. Topics include: The Call, Our Lifestyle, Sharing Your History, Being Relevant, The Gospel Message. At Church of St Bernadette (12 Zion Rd). Register with name SMS: 9007 0987; E: acptcafe@gmail.com ; W: http://www.catholicafe.sg

Sunday July 17 to Saturday July 23 WEEK OF GUIDED PRAYER@ CHURCH OF ST IGNATIUS Come learn to listen to God through Scriptures. Taster afternoon on Sunday to introduce prayer methods – Ignatian Contemplation and Lectio Divina and to meet prayer guide. 1 hour personal prayer time from Monday to Friday and then meet prayer guide in church for half-hour at most. Closing session on Saturday. At Church of St Ignatius. Register T: 9679 2381 (Bobby); E: sojourners@catholic.org.sg; W: http://www.catholic.org.sg/sojourners

July 16 SJI OPEN HOUSE 9am-1pm: School tour starts from foyer. Last tour at 12.40pm. Introductory talks

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Wednesdays from June 29 RCIA@CHURCH OF THE IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY 7.45pm: At Hall A/B, 24 Highland Rd. T: 9627 3835 (Nancy); E: rcia@ihm.sg; W: http://www.ihm.sg/rcia Thursdays from July 7 RCIA@CHURCH OF NATIVITY OF THE BVM 7.30-9.30pm: At 1259 Upper Serangoon Rd. T: 9745 1498 (Grace) Fridays from July 8 RCIA@CHURCH OF CHRIST THE KING 8-10pm: At 2221 Ang Mo Kio Ave 8. T: 9671 4907 (Paul); E: query.rcia@ gmail.com Fridays from July 15 RCIY@CHURCH OF THE RISEN CHRIST 8pm: For those between 15 and 25. At 91 Toa Payoh Central (St Matthew Room). T: 9489 8086 (Jeremy)

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Mondays, July 18 to November 14 REFLECTIONS OF THE GOSPEL OF MATTHEW 7.30-10pm: 8-session course by Deacon Sherman Kuek, SFO, on understanding the differences in practices and beliefs of the Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant Christians. By Singapore Pastoral Institute. At CWS Auditorium (55 Waterloo St 8th Floor). T: 6858 3011; E: admin@catholicspi.org July 24 COUPLE EMPOWERMENT PROGRAMME 1.30-5pm: Join the Couple Empowerment 3URJUDP &(3 IRU D IXOÂżOOLQJ DQG engaging journey of love that focuses on current issues faced by couples. You will be taught the latest life skills to build a more emotionally intelligent marriage. Ideal for young married couples and all couples who are open to re-discovering one another. At Church of St Anthony (Auditorium). T: 9674 4711 (Jason/Andrea), 9670 7327 (Philip/Sharon); E: goto_cep@hotmail. com; W: http://catholic-cep.webs.com/ July 29-31 RETROUVAILLE WEEKEND If you are serious about making your marriage work, this programme could be for you. Register T: 6749 8861; W: http:// helpourmarriage.sg

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52 T: 8183 0437, 6766 0891; E: dangunners61@yahoo.com.sg, sjcpastoral@gmail.com

Mondays, July 18 to September 19 WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE? 7.30-9.30pm: 14 sessions on the Gospel of Matthew by Fr Ambrose Vaz. At Blessed Sacrament Church (Fr Damien Centre, St James Room). T: 9106 3168 (Andrew), 9838 0472 (Royston); E: Andrew.neo@ bsc.org.sg, roystonl80@yahoo.com.sg

Crossword Puzzle 1036

47

RCIY/RCIA

July 17 CATHOLIC SINGLES MEET UP FOR MASS AND LUNCH 10am: Meet at church canteen at St Joseph Church (Victoria St) for Mass followed by fellowship over a Penang lunch. E: CatholicSingle@gmail.com

on SJI at 10am, 11am, 12pm. Special programmes trial classes. 9.30am and 11.30am. Talent student presentations. 9.30am and 11.30am. At St Joseph’s Institution (38 Malcolm Rd). Register T: 6250 0022; E: contact@sji.edu.sg

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41 43 44 45 47 48

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ACROSS 1 â€œâ€Śfor eye and _____ for‌â€? (Ex 21:24) 6 Some CEOs 10 OT historical book 14 Male (comb.) 15 Very small quantity 16 Foot covering 17 Deliverance from sin 19 Religious ceremony 20 Busy insects 21 Poor _____ (religious order) 23 Powerful cat 26 Church spire 27 CB word 28 An Old Testament prophet 30 Hire

31 33 34 35 38 39

43

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49 51 53 56 57 58 59 60

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com 32 “My punishment is too great to ________.� (Gn 4:13) 33 Lilt syllable 36 Two of a kind 37 One who foots the bill 39 Digits 40 Nominative “her� 41 Sty inhabitants 42 Name of God 44 Obsessive preoccupation 46 Shabby 47 Detergent for eight? 50 Speaks 52 Holy oil and balm 53 Fire power 54 Parisian heaven

55 The ____ Heart of Mary 61 Peter Fonda “goldenâ€? role 62 Israel 63 37th president of the United States 64 Spawning area of salmon 65 Land of Sts. Brendan and Brigid 66 Judges DOWN 1 Sailor 2 â€œâ€Ś______, holy, catholic and apostolic‌â€? 3 Eccentric

4 Milan crowd? 5 Man’s felt hat

Bishops’ headdresses French wood _____ Z Church place Another name for Jacob Bird sound Vacation spot Witherspoon of “Legally Blondeâ€? Seed of a legume Sly look Fish food? Texas student Equipment Neverland baddie What we’re known by, EULHĂ€\ â€œâ€Śand darkness covered the ______.â€? (Gn 1:2) Typify The ______ of Babel Certain woodwinds Wan Not fer â€œâ€Śthe Lord is with ______.â€? Clothes-pins Shock with wonder Left back Merciful Happen Republic in South America Wooded HBO competitor Cupid DI doubled Be untruthful Chopping tool Male cat Abstract being

Solution to Crossword Puzzle No. 1035 F A N S I S I T B I K O S T E A L A S N A P P H O L E S E T T A E R A R P E R S O A G W A S H E A P P A R Y E A R S T A

E A S I L Y B E N E D I C T

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O O N A

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www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

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Sunday July 3, 2011 CatholicNews

PUBLISHED BY ARCHBISHOP NICHOLAS CHIA, 2 HIGHLAND ROAD #01-03, SINGAPORE 549102. PRINTED BY TIMESPRINTERS, 16 TUAS AVE 5, SINGAPORE 639340.

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