| December 2018
MCI MCI(P) (P)050/09/2013 106/09/2018
Immaculate Conception and the Miraculous Medal Page 4-5
Growing the Faith – CER testimonies Page 6-7
All in the Family – El Shaddai Choir Page 9
“The Lord is in control...” Titus Tay, Ministry of Hospitality Page 10
Come Forth and LEAD the Church! Page 11
(continued on Page 3)
CELEBRATING
THE FEAST of the
IMMACULATE CONCEPTION La Purísima Inmaculada Concepción by Bartolomé Esteban Murillo
2 | EDITOR’S NOTE
EDITOR’S NOTE What a year it’s been for OLPS! We bade farewell to priests, Fr Charlie and Fr Bruno, and welcomed new faces Fr Edward Seah and Deacon Gabriel Wong. Yet all too soon, Fr Edward is on the move again, while Dn Gabriel is going to be ordained to priesthood at the turn of 2019.
ADVENT PROJECT 2018 “WISH UPON A STAR”
In other news, there have been attacks and scandals affecting our global Church. Natural disasters and the need for humanitarian assistance also clamour for our attention. We continue to offer prayers for those who have been hurt and affected by these events. Amid all the “noise” happening around us, how do we stand strong and remain focused on and faithful to God? Perhaps it is through the communities we form that we can gain support. With “change” as our only constant , we have to move together in unity, for then we are strong — or risk being distracted by the world. We take comfort that God is with us. Our 140 brothers and sisters who recently attended the Conversion Experience Retreat in September, can attest to that. They were joined by an equally large service team and interceding parishioners who came together to pray like never before at our Parish Intercessory nights. It was a mark of solidarity — we are truly ONE CHURCH! Read their short testimonies in this issue, and you can also visit our website (www.olps.sg) to read their in-depth sharings. In this issue, we also learn about the history of the El Shaddai Choir (10.30am Sunday mass), and how their family-centric approach has enabled them to grow over the years, inspiring their younger generation to be active in the ministry and contribute to those around them. This resonates with Fr Edward’s parting wishes for our parish to create more inclusion for the young and young adults. We spoke with Mr Titus Tay, a Ministry of Hospitality leader, to find out what keeps him serving for more than 40 years. He says, “when you serve the Lord, you do it for the Glory of God. You must be willing to serve with determination and perseverance. Most importantly, be committed to what you doing.” What a nugget of wisdom. Finally, despite having many active communities and ministries in OLPS, there is still a strong need for leadership renewal. The OLPS Leadership Engagement And Development Series (LEADS) hopes to empower parishioners in first creating personal change, like tackling old mindsets and poor communication habits. It is when we begin to see God’s vocation for us with greater clarity that we become more open to embrace His calling to make a difference in our parish and beyond. Wishing everyone a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year!
God Bless, Samantha
with my fellow editors, Celine, Deborah, Kevin, Stacey and the whole GOT Team writers and designers OLPS Communications Ministry
Meet The Team Editors Celine Fook • Deborah Lee • Kevin Lim • Melissa Shepherdson • Samantha Chan • Stacey Rodrigues Writers & *Contributors *Anastasia Cornelius • Celine Fook • Djamila Burgos • Dorothy Ting • *Fr Edward Seah • *Sarah Rodrigues • *Titus Tay • Verity Alison Low • Vivian Chung Designers Beatrice Ng • Candice Leocadio Publisher Church of Our Lady Of Perpetual Succour Address 31 Siglap Hill, Singapore 456085 Telephone 6241 9565 Fax 6241 5874 Printer NPE Print Communications Pte Ltd Address 39 & 41 Kallang Place, Singapore 339169 Telephone 6395 4444 Fax 6395 4445 Good OL Times Archives (2010 - 2018) Download past newsletters at www.olps.sg/good-ol-times-archives Disclaimer: Although Good OL Times has taken every reasonable care to ensure the accuracy and objectivity of the information presented in this publication, neither the publishers, nor their employees or agents can be held liable for any errors, inaccuracies and/or omissions howsoever caused. We shall not be liable for any actions taken based on the views expressed, or information provided within this publication. We may occasionally use material we believe has been placed in the public domain where it is not always possible to identify and contact the copyright holder. If you claim ownership of something we have published, we will be pleased to make a proper acknowledgement. Articles contributed by external sources do not represent the views of Good OL Times.
Thank you everyone for your generous support in our Advent Project once again. Stars have been snapped up week by week and some of you have yet to be able to pick one. Therefore, we encourage you to take this final week to fill the tree with more stars. However that’s only possible if we complete more wish forms. Would you go the extra mile to make time this weekend to look out for more people in need? Even this final weekend could make a difference! Grab your final round of blank wish forms, and inform organisers of any newly completed forms within the week (by 5 December) if possible so that they could verify, confirm, and prepare new stars for the tree before 8-9 December. For those of you who have already picked a STAR from the Christmas tree in the church foyer, it’s time to fulfill the wish in the STAR by purchasing the item. Gifts should be wrapped and delivered to organisers at the OLPS Church Foyer (during weekend Mass Times). For smooth planning, late gifts will not be accepted. Absolute closing date: Sunday, 16 December 2018, 1.45pm More details at: www.olps.sg/advent2018
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REFLECTION |3
A CHRISTMAS
REFLECTION
BY SARAH RODRIGUES
What are you doing to prepare yourself this Advent?
When December rolls around, the party and holiday planning kicks in. Before you know it, we’re kneedeep in to-do lists, rushing to pick out the perfect Christmas tree, perfect presents and the perfect outfit. Now, don’t get me wrong, I love the presents, the food and spending time with the family. Christmas is my favourite time of the year. But admittedly, I’m often guilty of spending more time on the festivities than the real reason for the season – the nativity of our Lord. This Advent, we look forward to Christmas Mass. A big celebration with bells and beautiful song; reuniting with old friends who we may not see in Church more than once a year. It is a time of joy. But when we come together, we don’t just celebrate the coming of Christ to the world, but also that God sent his only Son to save us. It is also a time of hope. A hope we all need as we continually struggle to give our 100 percent to Jesus and His will for us. In these final weeks leading up to Christmas, let us take a moment to reflect on what this year has been for us.
Perhaps you received that promotion you worked so hard for, or you finally bought the car of your dreams. Perhaps you may have been laid off, or you didn’t get the raise that you deserve. Perhaps you got into the school you’ve been striving towards. Perhaps you didn’t get the exam grades you studied so hard for. Perhaps you got married and you’re preparing to bring a child into the world. Perhaps you lost someone dear to you. Whether we’ve had some extreme highs or lows this past year, it’s too easy to get caught up with life, the busyness of work, the needs of family and the yearning for a social life to write home (or Instagram) about.
1. Confession: Clear those cobwebs in your
soul and confess your sins. Getting rid of all that excess baggage will help you make room for Jesus in your heart.
2. Practise acts of kindness: Little acts of kindness – letting a car into your lane, acknowledging the hard work of service staff – can go a long way to brighten someone’s day, and yours too. 3. Give of yourself: It is far better to give than to receive. Give of your time and help out in church or a local charity or simply spend some time with someone who may be alone this Christmas. 4. Be grateful: Instead of focusing on the things that we are lacking, be grateful for the many blessings that God has given us.
Sometimes we forget about the God that blessed us with such abundance. Sometimes we forget to turn to God for help in times of emotional turmoil. Often, we can’t help ourselves, and we choose to focus on enjoying life or getting through it, putting God on the backburner.
5. Pray: What better way to prepare for the coming of our Lord than by simply spending a little bit more time in prayer this Advent.
While the Church prepares us this Advent for His coming, what can we do to prepare ourselves?
I hope this list helps you get started on your Advent journey.
If like me, you do not feel entirely prepared to celebrate the birth of Christ, I’ve put together a little Christmas cheat sheet to help you get ready for Jesus’ birthday.
Wishing you a blessed Christmas!
4| FEATURES (continued from Page 1)
Every year on 8 December, Catholics around the world celebrate the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Whilst it is not a day of obligation in Singapore, it is in other countries like the US, Spain and Italy. What is the Immaculate Conception and why do we celebrate it? Vivian Chung explains the significance of this feast day for us.
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception is often confused with conception of Jesus in the Virgin Mary’s womb. Instead, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception refers to the conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the womb of her mother, Saint Anne. Mary was conceived naturally, but God gave her the grace of having no original sin, because she was chosen by God to bring Jesus to this world for the salvation of mankind. By God’s grace, she was immaculate in anticipation of her Son’s redemptive death on the cross. The Church therefore describes Mary as “the most excellent fruit of redemption.” (CCC 508) It was established as a universal feast in 1476 by Pope Sixtus IV, but he did not define the doctrine as a dogma then. It was not until 8 December 1854 that Pope Pius IX declared the Immaculate Conception as a Roman Catholic dogma, saying “the most Blessed Virgin Mary, from the first moment of her conception, by the singular grace and privilege of almighty God, and in view of the merits of Christ Jesus, saviour of the human race, was preserved immune from all stain of original sin.”
WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR US?
As we celebrate Mary’s sinless nature, being “full of grace” - we wonder if we could ever be rendered immaculate ourselves? We might argue simplistically that “it’s difficult to be obedient like Mary, for we were born with original sin!” This way of thinking could lead us to make excuses not to be obedient to God’s call in our lives. Let us take a step back to reflect on this mystery. Mary, being the new Eve, is the prototypical Christian whom we emulate. Freed from original sin, she was obedient to her call and role as mother of God. According to Jimmy Akin, a Senior Apologist at Catholic Answers in an article explaining the immaculate conception, those who die in God’s friendship will be freed from the stain of sin, and we will all be purified and rendered “immaculate” (Latin, immaculatus = “stainless”) if we remain faithful to God.
let yourself be guided by the Holy Spirit. Holiness does not make you less human, since it is an encounter between your weakness and the power of God’s grace.” (Gaudete et Exsultate, 9 April 2018) We should try to see Jesus in people around us and act with kindness. Remembering the commandment, “Love your neighbour as you love yourself” would be a good start. If our actions stem from our love for people, then there is so much potential for us to be more Christ-like.
ABOUT THE MIRACULOUS MEDAL OF THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION
What is this relation with Mary and the Immaculate Conception? Originally called the Medal of Immaculate Conception, the Miraculous Medal is special as it was designed by the Blessed Virgin Mary herself, through apparitions to Saint Catherine Labour’e in 1830.
The words “O Mary conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to Thee” was written in gold forming an oval shape framing the Blessed Virgin’s body. This was the the prayer that our Lady revealed to Catherine. The rays emitted from her hands symbolise the grace and protection she gives to those who pray to her for intercessions.
Hence we can be encouraged that in this life, God will purify us and train us in holiness, and rest assured that Mary’s immaculate conception IS the image of our own destiny.
Pope Francis echoes his predecessor, “do not be afraid to set your sights higher, to allow yourself to be loved and liberated by God. Do not be afraid to
The second apparition occurred while Catherine was praying with the other Sisters of Charity. Catherine heard a voice telling her, “Have a medal struck upon this model. All those who wear it, when it is blessed, will receive great grace especially if they wear it round the neck. Those who repeat this prayer with devotion will be in a special manner under the protection of the Mother of God. Graces will be abundantly bestowed upon those who have confidence.” Our Lady instructed Catherine to only inform Father Jean Marie Aladel, the community’s Confessor, about the apparitions and no one else, but Fr Aladel told Catherine that she was too imaginative. After two years of delay, Fr Aladel finally told the Archbishop of Paris about the apparitions. As an
THE MIRACULOUS MEDAL
“For he who has died is freed from sin. But if we have died with Christ, we believe that we shall also live with him.” (Romans 6:7)
In a message to the members of Catholic Fraternity of Covenant Communities and Fellowships, St John Paul II said “True holiness does not mean a flight from the world; rather, it lies in the effort to incarnate the Gospel in everyday life, in the family, at school and at work, and in social and political involvement.” (Vatican, 9 Nov 1996)
Our Lady appeared to Catherine when she was just aged 24, barely six months after she entered religious life, telling her that God had a special task for her to do. Catherine was also warned about the time of upheaval soon in France.
Appearing in a pure white dress with a white veil, Catherine saw Our Lady holding a golden ball topped with a cross in her hand. Her feet rested upon half of a globe. This became the front side of the medal, where Mary is shown standing on a globe, with a serpent crushed under her feet, representing Mary, the “Queen of Heaven and Earth” has destroyed Satan, due to her obedience to God. (Gen 3:15)
This whole design is surrounded by 12 stars, representing the 12 Apostles and the verse from the Book of Revelation, “a great sign appeared in heaven, a woman clothed with the sun, and the moon under her feet and on.” (Revelation 12:1)
At the same time, Catherine saw the oval frame turn around, showing the back of it the letter “M” surmounted by a cross with a crossbar beneath it. “M” symbolises Mary and her true devotion to Jesus and her children on earth as Mediatrix, while the cross with a bar at the bottom represents Jesus’ suffering for our salvation. This also represents Mary at the foot of the Cross.
Below the “M”, there are two flaming hearts. The left heart, encircled with thorns, represents Jesus’ Most Sacred Heart. The right heart, pierced by a sword, symbolises Mary’s Immaculate Heart. The flames signify the burning love of Jesus and Mary for all of us on earth.
FEATURES |5 ardent devotee of the Immaculate Conception, the archbishop then ordered 20,000 medals to be made immediately. The medal became later known as the Miraculous Medal because of many stories of miracles reported by devotees who wore the medal. This paved the way for the Church’s official declaration of the dogma of Immaculate Conception in 1854. By the time of St Catherine’s death in 1876, over a billion medals were distributed. In 1933, her body was found to have remained incorrupt after 57 years. At that point, Pope Pius XI ordered that Labouré be blessed and declared a saint. Today, her body can still be seen at the Mother House of Daughters of Charity in the The Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in Paris.
The Miraculous Medal of the Immaculate Conception is not a “good luck charm.” Rather, it is “a testimony to faith and the power of trusting prayer. Its greatest miracles are those of patience, forgiveness, repentance, and faith.” Good OL Times asked several parishioners on why they wear the Miraculous Medal. Here’s what they had to say. Marilyn (cradle catholic in her late 20’s):
I started wearing the Miraculous Medal since it is something common among Catholics. I have been wearing it for almost two years now, together with the Crucifix. It means being reminded daily that Mary and Jesus are always close to me and are my source of comfort and joy.
Karina (cradle catholic in her late 20’s):
The Immaculate Conception is a deep and beautiful mystery that I only managed to better understand over time through more Marian devotions. It holds dear in representing a personal challenge to always do my best in living out the Lord’s will with love, simply, without complaints; for no one could have done it as purely as our Blessed Mother.
Photos taken inside The Chapel of Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in Paris, France.
I wear the Miraculous Medal. It was a gift from a dear friend who wanted to challenge me to deepen my love and devotion to Mother Mary. As part of my daily walk with Christ, wearing the Miraculous Medal is both my way of saying that I love and desire to stay close to our Blessed Mother. It is a source of strength and grace to accompany me through my day and bring Mother Mary in my encounters with others.
Rekha (cradle catholic in her 40’s):
When I was a teenager, I received the Miraculous Medal as a gift. I do not know why I got so attached to it. I wore it close to my heart with a pin. I felt I needed it as it gave me a sense of protection and comfort. Once my mother dropped her purse on a crowded bus in India. There was quite a lot of money in the purse. I kept on praying the prayer on the medal. Miraculously, someone found the purse and gave it to the bus driver for it to be taken to the depot. My mother got back her purse with every penny untouched. Our Lady is always in my heart. I will always turn to her and never forget the prayer on the medal.
A miraculous medal rosary, photo from parishioner, Valerie Tay.
6| PARISH HIGHLIGHT
GROWING THE FAITH POST-CER TESTIMONIES Physical healing, finding closure to sad events of long ago, and being spiritually transformed and energised in the service of our Lord. These were some of the life-changing experiences of the 140 OLPS parishioners who attended a special “Conversion Experience Retreat” (CER) led by Archbishop William Goh. Following are testimonies from six brothers and sisters about their faith journey before, during and after the CER, which was held at the Catholic Spirituality Centre from 5 to 9 September 2018. We were inspired by their stories and hope you will be too.
VALERIE TAN
I experienced total physical healing of my knees at the recent parish CER. During the praying over session, Archbishop William Goh prayed over each one of the 144 retreatants. When it was my turn, I told myself, “how honoured and blessed am I to have Archbishop Goh bring Jesus my Lord to me. I must show my reverence by kneeling down.” As I stood up, I felt my legs loosen. I could swing them easily without experiencing the pain. The tightness had also gone. At Mass the next day, which was to mark the final day of the CER, I told the Lord that I would kneel through most parts. If, by the end of the Mass, I could stand up without pain and difficulty, I would share my testimony. And stand I did.
PARISH HIGHLIGHT |7
CASSANDRA CHEW
For the first two days, we heard testimonies from two volunteers, and each time, I could feel as though God was speaking to me. It was through these two testimonies, which led me to realise that my parents’ divorce and my father’s remarriage were still affecting me to this day. Both were unhappy periods in my life and both led me to a life of sin. The testimonies also dug up the painful memory of being molested on a bus when I was 16. I never knew that affected me so much until I heard those testimonies. It isn’t easy to share your most personal memories, but the fact that those two people had shared a part of their personal lives so willingly to a group of strangers is in itself God’s grace. These testimonies helped me to prepare for my confession during the retreat. I finally understood why my friends didn’t share about the activities during CER, as each individual will experience the Holy Spirit in different ways.
ETHEL TAN
Attending CER was possibly one of the best decisions I have made in my life. It touched me in all areas of my life, helping me to rebalance and giving me new perspectives. I went hoping just to encounter God, and I took away much, much more. There was one particular scripture that came up to me, not once but three times on the very first day at the retreat. That passage, 1 Corinthians 3:5-9, reminded me that we are all God’s servants who are not independent and working in silos, but are interdependent and fully dependent upon Him.
ANTHONY KANG
During CER, I opened the floodgates of my life through reconciliation with the Lord. The Lord is intimate, and helped me perform a detailed examination and scrutiny of my conscience. This resulted in me being at peace with myself finally. This peace no one can give except the Lord himself. I recall vividly the amazing moments where I found “closure” for my sin of unforgiveness, and also where God’s love filled the missing love of my father. All fear, hatred and anger were gone and replaced with the love of God! I also had close encounters with Jesus in his Passion, Death and Resurrection, and could relate intimately by reflecting on the merits and virtues of his 5,480 holy wounds. The word that best describes my experience with CER is “Peace”. I am at peace with myself.
Back then, I was at a phase in my life, taking stock, examining my career direction, and trying to make sense of everything. One month on, our Potter continues to do His kneading work on me, gently and lovingly, slowly but surely.
EMMELINE TAN PAUL LEW
At the start of Day 1, I asked the Lord to let me experience Him. On that day, I picked the verse from the Book of Ezekial, which says, “I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you…” (Eze 36:26-28). The joy of experiencing God is so awesome that all other joys cannot compare. My Christian friends always tell me that we can confess our sins to God directly. In a way, I was convinced by this. However, the CER had taught me otherwise. I now believe we need others to help us prepare ourselves to receive God; as with the priests, group members helping and encouraging one another, and the choir with their praise and worship. I don’t think I will ever be able to achieve this experience with God without their help. Archbishop said our sins hurt the people around us and the community. Thus, I believe the community is important in our repentance and for us to be connected with God. I have grown in faith with the CER, and I urge each and every one of you to attend if you have the opportunity. Jesus will change your heart if you allow him to be in your life.
While preparing for the parish CER, there were many occasions when I experienced God’s providence. Whenever our Praise and Worship team lacked in any aspect, God provided and made us whole. The Holy Spirit was also present throughout the five days to energise us. It was a humbling experience to witness how God’s love can transform one’s disposition. In the beginning, retreatants lifted up their hands in worship whenever we asked. But somehow it felt as if an invisible weight was weighing them down. By the last day, almost all could lift up their hands to worship freely and joyfully. It was such a joy to witness. Through CER, I have learned to be attentive to God’s soft prompting and journey with faith and an open heart. No matter how small an action we are called to do, perform it with joy and docility. Though we might not understand the intention at that very moment, one day we will be filled with joy to know that we are one of the puzzle pieces invited to complete the Body of Christ.
Read their full testimonies on www.olps.sg/articles
If you would like to attend CER or find out more, please visit Catholic Spirituality Centre’s website at csctr.net for details and upcoming retreat dates.
8| MANDARIN
将临期 -圣诞节前的准备期 ADVENT
文章：陈静芳 照片：黄瑞心 将临期是罗马天主教会准备耶稣基督来临人世的一个节日，从耶 稣君王节后的那个星期开始，为期4个星期。在这期间，教会强 调教友们守斋、刻苦、施舍等善工，多办修和圣事和勤领圣体等 神功，来纪念主耶稣的诞生。 将临期间，弥撒中的礼仪和经文也有所改变，弥撒中不念“光 荣颂”，一直到圣诞子夜弥撒才恢复咏唱光荣颂。主祭神父身 穿紫色祭衣，只有在将临期第3主日改穿粉红色祭衣，以配合主 题“喜悦”。 以下是本堂一些兄弟姐妹的反馈，以表达他们在将临期间心中 的期待和感受。 胡梅兰：今年将是我第一次参加歌咏团报佳音，心中非常期待， 希望把主耶稣降生为人的喜讯传扬给世人。 黄玲君、阮立家：我们心中非常兴奋，决心把圣诞歌曲练习地完 美，报佳音时取得圆满的成绩。 黄瑞心：我特别喜欢将临期弥撒开始时祝圣蜡烛和花环祷文的吟 唱， “主来改变，我们心灵，厄玛奴耳，主与我们同在。预备主道， 修直主路；希望时刻、喜悦时刻、散播和平、尔国来临，主来改 变，我们心灵，厄玛奴耳，主与我们同在”。这是永援圣母堂独 有的，也是一年一次我最期待的礼仪。 陈莲： 在将临期期间，我特别感恩。感谢天主派遣圣子耶稣诞 生成人，作照耀万民的真光，感谢圣母的奉献与配合，让天父能 完成拯救世人的奥迹。 林秋菊：每逢圣诞节，是我们兄弟姐妹及家人，从各个地方回马 六甲我父母家团聚的日子。30多人济济一堂，天南地北的谈天说 地、嘻哈大笑，吃着母亲为我们准备的圣诞大餐，这种大团圆的 日子，让我心中充满了温馨，充满了期盼，也非常感恩。 郑族玲：我最期待圣诞子夜的宁静与欢欣。基督真光，在圣诞之 夜，光辉灿烂。 林玟君：怀念和母亲一起望子夜弥撒的时光。如今母亲已在天 上，我呢！每逢圣诞倍思亲娘。 林炳祥：感谢天主恩赐我平安喜乐。我要好好准备自己，在这将 临期以欢乐的心情，迎接救恩的来临。
将临期
华文成人慕道团与我 R.C.I.A. Mandarin Speaking Group
陈雅梅
本堂慕道团成立于1993年，至今已有25个年头了。本团的宗旨在于结合各 方的力量，诸如理事、讲员、陪同员以及神师们，把天主教的教义，有计 划，有系统地传达给慕道者，让他们对天主教有正确和全面的认识，并希 望慕道者在慕道课结业时，能在复活节主日弥撒中领受新生的洗礼，加入 天主教大家庭，成为天主的好子女。 今年慕道团在4月29日开始招募新慕道者，在大家努力的推动下，有19位 寻道者出席7月1日的开课礼。这个数目振奋人心，大家都希望这期的慕道 者都能坚持到2019年，复活节主日弥撒中领洗而成为天主教徒。 我们感到庆幸的是慕道团获得陈光华神父和黄飞翔执事的鼎力支持，特别 是黄执事为我们陪同员主办避静课程，亲临慕道班来指导我们，他希望我 们能精益求精，在为主工作时，能获得事半功倍的效益。 我是在2012年加入慕道班，2013年领洗后进入慕道团，在慕道团为主工 作的日子里，我深深地感觉到，只有把自己完全托付给天主，才能把工作做 好。主耶稣曾经告诉过我们：“天主的国好比一个人把种子撒在地里，他黑 夜白天，或睡或起，那种子发芽生长，至于怎样，他却不知道，因为土地自 然生长果实：先发苗，后吐穗，最后穗上满了麦粒”（谷4：26-28） 以下几点，是我在慕道团这许多年来，从讲员们和修女讲课时，学习而来 的心得，如今写下来与大家共勉之。 • 恩赐：信仰是天主的恩赐，有了信仰，在生活中才能经得起考验，遇到困 难时会有耐心和信心去加以克服。 • 分享：新寻道者的加入，让我们团体生活中增添了家人。新寻道者来到我 们的团体，通过分享彼此认识，从陌生到互相了解。只要在分享中有一个 人受感动，那就是福传的开始。 • 聆听：我们到慕道团来聆听神父、修女、执事和讲员们的讲课，就是聆听 天主圣言，然后，让圣言改变我们，同时引领我们成为主耶稣的羊群，这 样必会获得永生。 • 陪伴：这是陪同员扮演的最重要角色。陪同员只管发出热忱，以爱心和耐 心去陪伴寻道者，让慕道者从我们的身上感受到主耶稣的爱和喜乐，我们 的言行都要活出主耶稣的精神，来见证天主的爱。 愿天主的恩宠常与我们同在，引领我们把福传工作提昇到更高的层次，让 更多的人能够聆听圣言，获得救恩。 阿们。 永援圣母堂华文成人慕道团， 第25届慕道班全体照
圣诞节
见证主恩 Testimony
戴瑞玉
我是在2018年4月1日复活节那天领受新生的洗礼， 在信仰上找到心灵的皈依。 回想在2017年开始上慕道课时，总觉得永援圣母堂 的华语弥撒时间太早，自己不能够这么早起来圣堂上 课和参与弥撒，虽然向慕道团的负责人报了名，心里 还在想打退堂鼓。 2017年6月18日是慕道班第24届开课礼，我在6月 17日晚上从越南回到新加坡，隔天清晨5点钟闹钟响 起，我却因为过于疲倦而没有被闹钟叫醒，朦胧中感 觉自己的手背被人拍了几下，就清醒过来，想起今 天是慕道班开课礼，必须起床上教堂去。第二次被叫 醒的日子我记不起来，只记得自己贪睡，主日天没有 早起身去圣堂，睡梦中感觉到自己的左手被提起再 放下，一阵疼痛把我弄醒，想起今天是主日天，赶 紧起身准备好上教堂。同年11月4日，我旅游泰国期
间生病，11月11日回到新加坡时还继续在 吃药，因为药力的关系，使我昏昏沉沉睡到 第二天清晨，在睡梦中听到一把声音，从遥 远的地方传来，大声的说道：“你可以起床 了！”我就这样乍醒，想到今天是星期天， 要去上慕道课。 过了一些日子，我也渐渐地把这些事情忘 了。有一个主日参与弥撒，欧世杰神父讲道 时提到“撒慕尔蒙启示”（撒上3：1-14） 那段圣经，天主三次召叫撒慕尔，撒慕尔 回答说：“请上主发言，你的仆人在此静 听。”（撒上3：10）我被这段圣言深深地 感动，原本打算再拖一年才领洗的我，当下 决定今年4月要领洗。 今年12月，将迎来我领洗后的第一个耶稣 圣诞节，我已经决定带我92岁高龄的母亲， 回乡探亲，并在母亲婴儿时期领洗的教堂过 圣诞，这是天主给我的一份特别礼物，我感 恩、珍惜。 阿们
戴瑞玉姐妹和母亲
MINISTRY |9
ALL IN THE
FAMILY
BY ANASTASIA CORNELIUS
El Shaddai Today
What does it take to keep a choir together for decades? Let’s take a walk down memory lane.
With 11 families making up the bulk of the El Shaddai Choir, it’s not difficult to see why this 10.30am mass choral community is very much a family affair. It’s also why recruitment has never been much of an issue, and today the choir is 59 strong. El Shaddai is led by Audrey Tan, who was one of the founders of the 10.30am choir back in 1975. The choir had its humble beginnings back when OLPS only had two Sunday masses. Audrey Tan was an organist for weekday masses when she was asked by the late Reginald Holmberg to replace him for the Sunday 10.30am mass because he was enlisted for National Service. Audrey was only 15 years old. Rev Fr Michael Arro, MEP was parish priest. Parishioners volunteered for the choir, and there were no permanent members. Benny Tan, Audrey’s brother, had also started playing the organ for Saturday Novena in 1975. He was 10 years old when he took over from Mrs Woodford. He joined the choir together with his team of youths from Willing Hands. Willing Hands was a youth group that helped to clean the parish grounds and the homes in the care of the Society of St Vincent de Paul (SSVP). Both Audrey and Benny had first learnt the organ from Alphonso Ortega. Alphonso’s eldest son, Ricardo, came to join Audrey sometime in the ’80s. Perhaps it was romance more than anything that brought Ricardo to the 10.30am mass, as he married Audrey in 1985. It was in 1986 that Audrey, Benny, the Ortegas as well as a few others were privileged to have represented OLPS for the combined church choir at the visit of Pope John Paul II to Singapore. It was then that the 10.30am choir came to be called El Shaddai. Not long after, Ricardo’s sisters, Bridgette and Serena, joined their elder brother in the choir life in 1993.
EL SHADDAI TODAY
As new members come through the multiplication of families, today half of this choir consists of young adults in their 20s or younger. Growing up in the choir is very much like living under one roof and being raised by a whole village of aunties and uncles. It is a way to bridge the generation gap, and the children’s faith would not only be influenced by his own parents but also that of his extended family. In today’s world where people have come to guard their private space with vehemence, such an extended family environment may be the only experience one could have of a small Christian community. There is also the opportunity to work together through music, renewal of love in song and occasional projects such as Feast Days, Easter Vigils, weddings, Christmas pageants and carolling. El Shaddai choir tries to make carolling an annual activity in partnership with SSVP. Bonding happens outside of choral singing too. Some of the young members would meet for breakfast at the OLPS foyer on Sundays prior to choir practice as often as they can. This initiative has provided them the opportunity to share day-today concerns with their peers, stay connected and build each other up. They find it easier to talk when they eat together especially for those who are more reserved. They recognise that the choir is a safe space to grow to be future leaders. As serving the church has become second nature to them, the idea of stepping up to bigger roles as they get older is an achievable possibility. As it is now, some of them are already able to help youths around them, at school or university, as well as others they meet who may not be as privileged to have a Christ-centred family or at least a family nucleus.
“Most of my friends are not aware of community life the way I am. My experience in this choir has been a launchpad for me to help build Christian communities elsewhere such as in university, our parish catechism and other ministries.” – Rachel Lim, 23
“I have been in El Shaddai since I was in primary school. I am grateful that today I represent the choir in the OLPS Liturgical Committee. Through the committee, I have gained a lot of knowledge about the events of our parish.” – Dr Audrie Foo, 24
“It is my first time in the choir’s retreat planning team this year. I hope to bring the fruits of my experience in the Office for Young People (OYP) Living Ark retreat to El Shaddai choir!” – Gabriel Teh, 27
There are many strengths of a family-run choir but the same strengths can be setbacks too: • While meetings and practice sessions double up as opportunities to work and bond together, they may not be so strict in attendance. • There isn’t a formal succession plan to other family members who would still have a lot to learn. • Working with tight-knit families also means higher obligations and expectations on some families than others. This can take its toll as circumstances of life change with time.
A HIGHER CALLING
The choir hopes to get past these setbacks. Five members have attended our first parish Conversion Experience Retreat (CER). The entire choir has just wrapped up a retreat in October. Retreats are a great way to rest and recover from the rigors of life, for members to renew inspiration and be encouraged once again by the Holy Spirit and guest speakers. The family that sings together, stays together. And, like the Holy Family, we can be living witnesses, that “nothing is impossible with God” (Luke 1:37).
Lord, bless our family, all of us now together, those far away, all who have gone back to you. May we know joy. May we bear our sorrows in patience. Let love guide our understanding of each other. Let us be grateful to each other. We have all made each other what we are. O family of Jesus, watch over our family. Amen.
10 | PEOPLE
THE LORD IS IN CONTROL OF
MY DAILY LIFE Recently, the OLPS Hospitality Ministry 40 years Appreciation Award was presented to Mr Titus Peter Tay, leader of Group 2 Saturday 6.30pm Sunset Mass. The award was presented in appreciation and recognition of Mr Tay’s 40 years of dedication and service to OLPS. Fr Kenny presented Mr Tay with the award during the annual Ministry of Hospitality Dinner on National Day, 9 August 2018 held at the Grand Mercure Royal Restaurant.
Mr Tay joined the ministry, then known as Board of Wardens, on 18 June 1978 at the age of 30. He was elected President in 1985 and 1986, becoming one of the first in the hospitality ministry to hold the president office for 2 years (each tenure is 1 year). He then became Group 2’s leader in 2002, taking over from the late Mr Michael Koh. 40 years of service is a long time, and is something us brothers and sisters in Christ can learn from and work toward. In the following interview, Mr Tay shares with Good OL Times, his experience serving in the ministry and what keeps him serving for so long.
GOT: What were your feelings when you received the 40-year service award in August? Mr Tay: I thanked the Lord for His grace and blessings
to be able to serve Him with humility all these years. God and Mother Mary bestowed wisdom and perseverance upon me, allowing me to serve with total commitment and humility all these 40 years. Doing God’s work and serving the congregation is not a duty. It increases your happiness and improves your health. Happiness is not about getting what you want all the time; it is about loving
what you have and being grateful for it. Every relationship is fragile, so handle every feeling with care and respect. It is not how much you give, but how much commitment and dedication into giving and sharing that we put in.
GOT: What keeps you going in this ministry? How did you overcome the challenges you faced when serving? Mr Tay: It gives me
great joy and happiness in serving the Lord by serving the congregation at OLPS. My strength, encouragement and determination comes from rejoicing in the Lord, with gratitude, dedication and commitment. As a leader of Group 2 and having served for 40 years, I found, many times, a shortage of wardens coming to serve. However, I always follow up and check with them, to encourage members to come forward and serve the Lord with commitment.
GOT: What keeps you faithful to God? Did you ever doubt God? Mr Tay: Doubt God? Nope! By praying and asking for
perseverance, I put my trust in Him. The Holy Bible and His words of wisdom provide me with the knowledge and strength to persevere in any difficulties that I encounter in my daily life. Scripture also taught me to let go of all the difficulties that I have been clinging onto and leave them to the Lord. With Scripture, I receive spiritual blessings and peace, and trust that everything is possible with God! I deliberately surrender my worries and fears to God, for He has told me not to be anxious and to surrender everything to Him in daily prayer.
An interview with OLPS Hospitality Minister, Mr Titus Tay
My prayer goes, “You have told me not to be anxious about anything but rather surrender everything to you. Please calm my restless spirit and quieten my anxious heart. Preserve my troubling thoughts with the assurance that you are in control of my daily life. To let go and surrender everything that I have been holding and clinging to, with open hands. I sincerely thank you for your promise to sustain and preserve me, guarding and protection under you. Please protect my heart and mind with peace, the peace that no one can give except you. Lord, may your will be done”.
GOT: What qualities do you consider are most important for a leader? Mr Tay: Total dedication and commitment. Do not be
discouraged, and have faith in what you are doing. God will be there to encourage you, so put your trust in Him. As St Paul said, “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
Be grateful for every second that you spend with fellow members. These people will support, guide and pray for you regardless. Accept what you receive and give back. Never think “I have nothing.” God knows exactly what you need and how much, so have faith and trust in Him.
Be sincere and honest, and touch the lives and heart of the congregation. Be a positive light to others, putting a smile on their faces. Your actions will give loving memories to people around you, and matters more than what you say. GOT: If you were asked to advise aspiring young wardens, what would your advice be? Mr Tay: When you serve the Lord, you do it for the Glory of God. You must be willing to serve with determination and perseverance. Most importantly, be committed to what you do.
GOT: What is your favourite bible verse? Mr Tay: The Lord is compassionate and merciful, slow to anger and filled with unfailing love (Psalms 103:8)
GOT: What is your favourite food? Mr Tay: Nasi Lemak! Because the chilli is spicy, and it is filled with lots of delicious ingredients!
LEADS | 11 Those who have attended at least one of these workshops may progress to attend a three-month programme called “How to Mentor Like Jesus”, which will begin in 2019. This programme consists of three classroom sessions plus hands-on personal coaching and practicum under the watchful eye of a mentor. Andrew Chai, who conducts the workshops, says LEADS will help participants fulfill their calling. “For this to happen, there must be a clear personal direction. For someone to be equipped to serve, his personal life must first work”, says Andrew, a certified corporate executive coach who also serves the parish as a catechist. He adds that finding the problems is easy, but getting people to work on the identified solutions is tough. For example, there are people who know that unforgiveness burdens them, but are not open to reconciliation. “If one’s personal life is to work, his spiritual life must work,” he says.
COME FORTH AND
LEAD THE CHURCH! OLPS needs new leaders and volunteers for growth and renewal BY DJAMILA BURGOS “See, I am doing something new! Now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? In the wilderness I make a way, in the wasteland, rivers.”
No one should be afraid of being a leader, for the Lord does not only choose the qualified, He empowers all those who respond to His call. As the prophet Isaiah says: “Do not fear: I am with you; do not be anxious: I am your God. I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand.” (Isaiah 41:10). The first step to becoming a leader is to heed the call. The next is to be open to the teachings; to be molded and trained.
Andrew has worked with more than 70,000 individuals and personally trained more than 3,000 in career, personal and spiritual development. Andrew appealed to people to stop being “Sunday Catholics” and take concrete actions to answer the call for leadership. For instance, we can start by helping the poor, in particular those we don’t know. We can also volunteer in the ministries, he says. To help parishioners have a better appreciation of the various ministries in OLPS, leaders must also make a concerted effort to introduce their ministries to parishioners, outlining very clearly the objectives and demands. As people become more familiar with the activities in OLPS, they will be drawn into the different groups to serve the Lord. As the very foundation of our Catholic faith is being attacked, as our children get bombarded by dizzying alternative views, we need to stand strong. We can only be a strong church if we have a strong and faithful community. We need to renew, and we need to start the work right now. We need to heed God’s call.
UPCOMING WORKSHOPS
To register for the upcoming workshop (2) “The Law of Opposites” to be held on Tuesday, 18 December 2018, visit www.olps.sg/events.
(Isaiah 43:19, NABRE) Leadership renewal at OLPS has been discussed extensively during the past several years, including at the last biennial parish assembly in 2017. Yet, while our parish is blessed with thousands of parishioners attending Mass each week, we do not have enough leaders. Many leaders serve in two or more of the over 90 ministries and communities in OLPS. This could involve being part of the Hospitality Ministry on Saturday evenings, and returning on Sundays to serve in the choir or as a communion minister. In addition to participating in two or three activities each weekend, these people are also in church on weekdays to serve in say, the RCIA, or Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults. Young working adults are also under-represented in many ministries, creating a “missing generation” of potential leaders that will hurt the church in the not too distant future. There is thus an urgent need for new leaders to spring forth to ease the burden on existing volunteers and to generate new ideas that can transform barren lands like fast-moving rivers.
THE HARVEST IS PLENTY
When OLPS talks about leadership renewal, we mean getting new leaders to help share Christ’s love. Existing leaders will continue to serve, as the harvest is plenty but the labourers are few.
OLPS LEADS
To help volunteers become more dynamic and effective leaders, OLPS provides training in the form of the OLPS Leadership Engagement and Development Series, or LEADS. LEADS is specially designed to bring parish leaders together for closer interaction, leadership formation and fellowship. The series comprises three workshops: (1) I am Blind AND I See, (2) The Law of Opposites, and (3) Both are Right but not Correct. In “I am Blind AND I See”, for example, participants will be taught to identify and overcome the blind spots that impede their effectiveness. Once concrete steps are taken, the participant will start to gain clarity on God’s plan for him or her and make the changes needed.
Registration for the three-month programme, “How to Mentor Like Jesus” is also open and closes by 6 January 2019.
12 | SPOTLIGHT
HELLO AND FAREWELL TO FATHER EDWARD SEAH!
SAYING Parishioners of OLPS have been enjoying Father Edward’s stint here! Alas, too soon, we would be saying farewell to him by the end of this month. Before he moves on, Good OL Times writer Verity Alison Low catches up with him for a glimpse of what’s to come, and what his hopes are for all of us at OLPS.
What are your hopes for the people of OLPS?
As I had some prior experience of OLPS due to my years in two Lasallian Communities of St Patrick’s School and La Salle House at Dunbar Walk, I looked forward with much hope to serve as an assistant priest in OLPS. The great thing about OLPS is that a lot more people are involved in the parish in so many ways and this is a very healthy sign. It is a very active parish, blessed with very resourceful people. My hope for OLPS is that each one of us makes an effort to be aware that we are pilgrims on earth, here today and gone tomorrow. Hence it is the responsibility of the leaders in each ministry to be involved in fair, nonpartisan succession planning. Then we will be able to make great improvements as a dynamic evangelistic Christian community which will bring much joy - not only to our community but also beyond the walls of the parish.
How can OLPS play a bigger role in 2019?
There are always areas for improvement and creative services needed to advance the kingdom of God. I must say that our parish has done much, not only to upgrade the facilities of the parish, which has made it so homely, but has also been very intentional in the outreach to the
less fortunate, and educating us to be sensitive to those in need, for example, through the Advent Project “Wish Upon A Star”. Our parishioners have also been pro-active in organising faith formation sessions and the attendance has been encouraging. Some areas for improvements to consider are: • How do our socially and academically weaker young and young adults fit in? • Do our ministries cater to their needs and encourage their involvement? • As a very resourceful parish, we could also take greater strides in catering to those with special needs. • The Church exists for mission, so we may need to consider reaching out beyond the confines of our parish to schools nearby and have more collaborations with other organisations, including non-Catholic ones.
What is next for you in your new role ahead?
Next year I will take residence in the Seminary as the Spiritual Director of the house. I will, of course, miss being involved here in OLPS. Every new mission is a new learning curve and I wish to do my best as God requires of me. Answering God’s call to baptism was a new learning curve and so was the call to be a La Salle Brother with attachments in 9 communities over four countries. Joining the seminary and the priesthood was also a new learning curve as I sought to serve the Lord.
Now I look forward to the ministry of “accompaniment” which is both a privilege and responsibility. I trust that the Holy Spirit will guide me and those whom I accompany! I thank all in OLPS for the good experience here and will keep you all in my prayers. Note: Fr Edward Seah is appointed Spiritual Director for the seminarians of St Francis Xavier Major Seminary for a term of three years with effect from 16 August 2018 and taking up residence at the seminary from 1 January 2019.
What is your personal motto that reminds you to stay on track?
I often like to remind myself that: We are only pilgrims on earth. Here today and gone tomorrow. In view of this I like the sentiment of Job who said, “The Lord has given, the Lord has taken away. Blessed be the Lord.” (Job 1:21) Each day is a gift. A gift to live another day, with all the different opportunities to make meaning for ourselves and others. And I welcome each day with faith and zeal as I bid farewell to each day with contentment and inner peace.
Did you know?
Fr Edward’s favourite Saint is... St John Baptist de La Salle, Patron of Teachers (Feast day: 7 April). St John Baptist de La Salle ia the founder of the Brothers of the Christian Schools (also known as Lasallian schools or the de La Salle Brothers), which is active in 80 countries today and ministers to more than a million young people. Fr Edward is inspired by St John because he was a humble priest who placed himself on the same level as the Brothers. Although progressive in his thinking, he was never arrogant, but down-to-earth and creative in his approach to service.