| September 2018

MCIMCI (P) (P) 050/09/2013 054/09/2017

You can Running How can you Celebrating Modern BE Holy! the Race? tell if someone Service Martyrs You is suffering from Must Know! Depression? Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 11

(continued on Page 3) THE CALL TO CONVERSION: IS YOUR HEART OPEN TO CHANGE? BY CELINE FOOK 2| EDITOR’S NOTE

LATEST ON EDITOR’S NOTE INSTAGRAM It’s already September! Parishioners have been busy the last two months, from bible study sessions by Fr Eugene Vaz, to the OLPS Leadership Engagement and Development Series (LEADS) talks. Our Parish Pastoral Council and various ministries have been hard at work to provide activities that would help in growing our faith and renewing leadership. Ultimately, the question we’d like to ask in this issue is - are we experiencing continuous conversion?

This month, 145 OLPS parishioners will be attending the Conversion Experience Retreat (CER) by Archbishop William Goh, from 5 to 9 September 2018. It will be an exciting time for our parish to have so many parishioners come together to receive God’s Holy Spirit. Meanwhile, the rest of the parish is invited to join in the Parish Intercessory Prayer sessions held from 5 to 8 September, 8.00pm to 9.30pm (details on the right). We are fighting a spiritual battle through prayer. Together, we will push against the stronghold of evil as we pray for freedom from sin and for hardened hearts to be won for Christ.

Conversion is not only just for these 145 parishioners. It is for everyone. In this issue of Good OL Times, we’ve put together pertinent reflections on conversion and spiritual growth. We challenge our relationship with holiness in You Can Be Holy Too! Is this notion really out of reach? In Running the Race – we are reminded that our faith, like our journey in life, is not a sprint but a marathon with hurdles. How can we give our best run in this race and persevere till the end?

Looking around us, there are actually many parishioners whom we can emulate. In particular, we highlight our young and upcoming leaders in the article Celebrating Service; and in the article Modern Martyrs, we are inspired by fellow Catholics in our era, who have run the full distance, to the extent of dying for their faith!

Finally, with the Family Life Society’s para-counselling team now providing counselling services at our parish, we hope that greater awareness can be brought to the issue of depression, as this often has serious consequences if left untreated.

A deeper spiritual life in Christ is not without its rewards. As we journey closer towards God, Philippians 4:7 encourages us, “the peace of God, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus.” How wonderful it is to experience this peace! This year-end, let us be hungry - not for the upcoming festivities or the next holiday trip, but for life in Christ!

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 #olpssg Editors Celine Fook • Deborah Lee • Kevin Lim • Melissa Shepherdson • Samantha Chan • Stacey Rodrigues Writers & *Contributors Adeline Wee • *Ana M • Celine Fook • Dorothy Ting • Kevin Lim • Vivian Chung Follow our vibrant OLPS Community Designers Beatrice Ng • Candice Leocadio through social media: Publisher Church of Our Lady Of Perpetual Succour Address 31 Siglap Hill, Singapore 456085 Telephone 6241 9565 Fax 6241 5874 www.facebook.com/olps.sg

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Disclaimer: Although Good OL Times has taken every reasonable care to ensure the accuracy and objectivity of the information presented in TAG US #olpssg 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 Join the OLPS Communications Ministry by external sources do not represent the views of Good OL Times. Want to contribute? Email [email protected] FEATURES | 3

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Christ and his disciples call us to conversion, and this call to conversion resounds even in the lives of the baptised. In this issue of the Good OL Times, Celine Fook explores the call to conversion through Christ’s teachings in the Bible, and discovers the conversion stories of some of our OLPS parishioners.

WHAT IS CONVERSION? Have you ever believed something so strongly that Saul, laid his hands on him, and said, “Brother Saul, you thought everyone who had a different opinion the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on your way Conversion can be understood as the changing from you was wrong? Did you later find out that here, has sent me so that you may regain your sight of one’s religion or beliefs. According to the you were wrong and they were right? Were you and be filled with the Holy Spirit.” Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic converted like St Paul? Church (CCC), for the baptised, conversion is “a Immediately, something like scales fell from Saul’s continuing obligation” (CCC, 299), and is closely eyes and his sight was restored. He got up, was related to the sacrament of Penance. In fact, THE CONVERSION STORY OF ST PAUL baptised, and started proclaiming Jesus in the Christ instituted the sacrament of Penance for the When St Paul was a young boy, he lived in the synagogues saying, “He is the Son of God.” From conversion of the baptised who have been separated city of Tarsus. He was born with the name Saul, then on, Saul, who was also known by the name from him by sin. (CCC, 297) and since birth his parents faithfully taught him Paul, spent the remainder of his life travelling all about God’s laws according to the Jewish faith. and spreading the Gospel, preaching boldly in In the early days, the prophets were entrusted to As a boy, Saul studied under the greatest Rabbi of Jerusalem and beyond. do the works of God and drew from prayer “the the time, and eventually his zeal for Jewish law light and strength to exhort people to faith and to and traditions led to him become a Pharisee. As a conversion of heart.” (CCC, 539) The Bible contains Pharisee, Saul not only obeyed God’s laws carefully, WHY DO WE NEED CONVERSION? numerous examples of how the people experienced but made sure others did too. For the non-baptised, conversion is associated with conversion, and among the most famous conversion the act of accepting Jesus as saviour and repenting stories is the one of St Paul. As Christianity grew in the region and messages for past sins. But conversion is a continued journey that the Messiah had come started to spread, Saul’s even for the baptised, because it’s too easy to devotion to Jewish teachings led him to denounce be separated from Christ by sin. does the stories of Jesus, His divinity and His resurrection. not abolish the weakness of our nature and our Blinded by his anger towards Jesus’s followers, Saul inclination to sin. began persecuting anyone who believed that Jesus is the Son of God. He truly believed he was obeying The Compendium of the Catechism of the Catholic God’s command and serving the Lord through his Church (CCC) alludes to several reasons for actions. conversion:

During this period of persecution, Saul travelled 1. It is required for an authentic human society to the city of Damascus to arrest Christians and According to the CCC (404), respect for justice, bring them back to Jerusalem for trial. However, a just hierarchy of values, and the subordination just before he arrived, Saul and his companions of material and instinctual dimensions to interior were surrounded by a bright light so strong that it and spiritual ones are required for an authentic knocked him off his horse and down to the ground. human society. The call for Conversion and for Blinded by the light, he only heard a voice calling God’s grace is necessary to obtain social change out to him, “Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?” where sin has perverted the society. The man replied, “Who are you, Lord?” And the voice said, “I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting. 2. To commit ourselves to do God’s work But get up and enter the city, and you will be told “The desire to restore the unity of all Christians is what you are to do.” Saul got up from the ground a gift from Christ and a call of the Spirit.” (CCC, and realised that he could see nothing even though 164) Conversion, together with prayer, fraternal his eyes were open. He was blind. knowledge of each other and theological dialogue allows us to follow God’s will. While in Damascus, he fasted and prayed for three days. And on the third day, he had a vision of a man 3. To grow in our relationship with God and laying hands on him to restore his sight. The man in become more Christ-like the vision, Ananias, was a of Jesus, and he At the origin of conversion is the initial grace. was fearful of approaching Saul the Pharisee. The (CCC, 427) While we are unable to merit the Lord allayed his fears by saying, “go, for he is an initial grace, we nevertheless receive the grace instrument whom I have chosen to bring my name of God unconditionally, and, thereafter, God before Gentiles and kings and before the people of also provides “the possibility of acquiring merit Israel; I myself will show him how much he must through union with the love of Christ, who is the suffer for the sake of my name.” Ananias went to source of our merits before God.” (CCC, 426) 4| FEATURES

What mattered most for me was the relief and “do you want to come back or not?” After I went How have you experienced conversion? Our OLPS brothers and sisters who inner healing. I was told, and believe, that when for CER, I received God’s healing and realised that attended the Conversion Experience we are baptised, all our sins are forgiven. However, God always opens His hands; it is up to us to choose Retreat (CER) share their stories. the memories and guilt of certain sins committed to be converted. When asked whether it was God prior to my baptism lingered in me, and I was who chose me or I who chose God, I always answer troubled and disturbed at times. I shared this with without hesitation, “It was God who chose me.” the Bishop during the retreat, and, through his Paul Cheng wisdom, I learnt that I could seek healing by way GOT: What’s your conversion story? Leader of the Divine Mercy group of going for confession. During the retreat, I made Esther: I started work at the age of 14. My parents a frank and truthful confession of my past sins. I did not trust me and their constant suspicion and felt a deep sense of relief from the bondage of my judgement drove me to attempt suicide. I remember past sins, and tremendous joy and peace filled my thinking that, since they did not trust me, there was heart. I could truly feel God’s love for me. Thanks no more meaning to life. As I lay in bed for three be to God! full days after taking too many pills with beer, my parents still did not care about me. GOT: How has your experience changed your relationship with God? Then Jesus appeared to me in my dream and told Paul: As I grow in my faith, I am able to appreciate me to drink tea. When I awoke, I did smell tea. My God’s love throughout the stages of my life. I try helper made me a cup of teh-O kosong. The next to always put God at the centre, in church, at work morning after that tea, I woke up and was well and at home. I am also trying to change my ways, to again. God saved me. be more compassionate and loving in my thoughts, my conversations with friends and loved ones, and I first encountered God through the Catholic my perceptions of others. Church when I met my first boyfriend. When that relationship ended, I started truly searching Good OL Times: What is conversion to you? Esther Chua for God. I went to several churches of different Paul: Conversion is a life-long process of learning Member of Cecilia’s Choir denominations – this included Novena Church. At and widening our knowledge of faith – Catholicism. Novena, I saw people queuing to enter a small room Conversion happens each time I try my best to behind a curtain. I too went behind the curtain and appreciate the mysteries and learn and understand saw a man. I asked him how I could get baptised. the theoretical aspects of our religion. He told me to head to the front desk, but there was no one there. Not long after that I joined the journey GOT: What’s your conversion story? of RCIY at Church of the Risen Christ. It was only Paul: I converted to Catholicism some 20 years then that I realised I entered a confessional room. At ago. As I endeavour to grow closer to God and the time I was only 16. understand the Catholic faith better, I participate in various church activities, such as volunteering GOT: How has your experience influenced other in ministries, attending seminars and bible classes, aspects of your life? going on pilgrimages, which I hope will enlighten Esther: When I got divorced after 10 years of me and allow me to be able to discern better. marriage, I entered a period of depression. I felt Esther (middle) sorry for both my children, who were not baptised. The CER was one of the most exhilarating and One day, I stepped into OLPS church and had a immense conversion experiences for me. Never had GOT: What is conversion to you? good long cry. After that day, I started bringing my I experienced such great joy, peace and healing at Esther: For me, conversion is a decision between me daughter and son to Mass. I let my kids attend this retreat! and God, a choice of life, a question to be answered, catechism classes too. Both expressed an interest

FEATURES | 5 in getting baptised at different times. I was initially GOT: What’s your conversion story? shocked by this, as I had never imagined that my Esther: It was about five years ago, when I attended children would want to be baptised. I’m not a lonely the Life in the Spirit Seminar (LISS) at the Church Parish Intercessory Catholic anymore. of St Ignatius. I really didn’t know what to expect. Prayers for the When I went for the seminar, I wasn’t expecting Though it is not easy to be a Catholic as there are a conversion or anything of that sort, I was just OLPS Conversion many temptations, I am very glad to be Catholic accompanying a friend. and I do not regret my decision. Experience Retreat There was one night when intercessory prayers Kevin Goh were being offered while the priests heard 5 - 8 September 2018 CER intercessory prayer leader confessions. I asked for prayers for a family 8.00 - 9.30pm @ OLPS Adoration Room member, who is a lapsed Catholic. While the group (Wednesday), Verbist Hall (Thursday – was praying over me, I couldn’t stop crying. I Saturday) experienced manifestations of the Spirit, and many strange, unexplainable things happened. One of the All OLPS parishioners are invited to join members from the prayer group tried to console our first ever huge parish intercessory me, she asked me to be silent and listen to God. prayer nights for the participants attending the OLPS Conversion Experience Retreat I calmed down, closed my eyes and heard a (CER) on 5-9 September at the Catholic voice. At first, I thought it was my inner voice, but Spirituality Centre. The prayers at OLPS I realised that it was not me. I started to argue with will be held from 5 - 8 September, at this voice, but the voice remained calm. It asked me 8.00 - 9.30pm at the Adoration Room why I doubted, and kept repeating, “Why are you (Wednesday) and Verbist Hall (Thursday doubting?” to Saturday).

All of a sudden, I saw a bright light (even with my There are also prayer sessions held at the eyes closed), and the voice said, “do you believe Catholic Spirituality Centre itself (during GOT: What is conversion to you? now? That this is me?” It was without a doubt to weekday afternoon slots) and you are also Kevin: To me, conversion is about coming back me then, that it was God speaking. welcome to participate in those sessions. to God our Father. It is about making things right again; about humbly turning everything towards God is not fierce, or scary. God is really funny. I had You may also submit a prayer intention for Him. a very nice conversation with him. the participants through our online form. We look forward to gathering once again GOT: What’s your conversion story? That was my very first encounter with God. It was as 145 OLPS parishioners will be receiving Kevin: My spiritual life prior to the Conversion really amazing because I felt His presence, and the a life-changing renewal experience. Experience Retreat was a silent and shallow one. Holy Spirit was with me. I also acquired the gift of However, many things were revealed to me during tongues, which was the most awesome gift ever! Find out more at www.olps.sg/CER the retreat. My prayers, especially the ones for my family and our close friends, had been answered. I GOT: How has your experience changed your also learnt to view others not as competitors, but as relationship with God? being part of the Lord’s flock and complementing Esther: I feel so blessed to be a child of God. My faith each other in His name. journey has had its ups and downs, and I cannot always encounter God in the same way, which is GOT: How has your experience influenced other okay because it made me cherish that encounter aspects of your life? with Him more. Whenever I have doubts, I pull out Kevin: It does not feel like it has been five years my spiritual journal and read about these precious (July 2013) since my conversion back into the arms encounters with Him. These days, although I still of Christ. The CER will always be a turning point have moments of weakness, I lift them up to our for me and has influenced me in the different roles I Lord and I know I’m in safe hands. Thank you, play in this world. Jesus!

The Lord had gifted me with the grace of reconciliation with my own father. I did not have a good relationship with him. Behind closed doors, I would scold him for reasons unknown. However, God changed me and gave me humility to work on my relationship with my dad. The grace of God gave us time to heal, till the day my dad passed away peacefully at home.

Through this experience with my dad, I have caught a glimpse of what God’s love is about. What Jesus is trying to convey to all of us in the New Testament is that we have a loving Father; one that is always running to us, even when we are running away from Him.

Esther Fang Catechist

GOT: What is conversion to you? Esther: Conversion has a lot to do with the heart; it changes a person in mind, body and soul. It cannot be categorised as only something major; it can be little things as well. A conversion happens when God touches you deeply, when you have an intimate moment with him, and when you change your beliefs.

6| REFLECTION

YOU CAN BE HOLY

TOO!BY VIVIAN CHUNG

So can we ever be holy? In a message to the members of Catholic Fraternity As Emeritus Benedict XVI pointed out, of Covenant Communities and Fellowships, St When we think of holiness, “Holiness does not consist in not making mistakes John Paul II said “True holiness does not mean a God immediately comes to or never sinning. Holiness grows with capacity for flight from the world; rather, it lies in the effort to conversion, repentance, willingness to begin again, incarnate the Gospel in everyday life, in the family, mind. We may also associate and above all with the capacity for reconciliation at school and at work, and in social and political , , priests and and forgiveness.” If this is the case, there is hope for involvement.” (Vatican, 9 Nov 1996). religious with the notion us to be “holy” if we continue to grow spiritually to build a faithful and personal loving relationship ’ echoes his predecessor, “do not be of holiness. Would you be with Jesus. Through prayers and continuously afraid to set your sights higher, to allow yourself to surprised if you were told examining our conscience, we can grow towards be loved and liberated by God. Do not be afraid to living a more holy life. let yourself be guided by the Holy Spirit. Holiness that all of us can be “holy” does not make you less human, since it is an without necessarily joining On 9 April 2018, Pope Francis’ third Apostolic encounter between your weakness and the power of a religious order? Exhortation “Gaudete et Exsultate” (Rejoice and God’s grace.” (Gaudete et Exsultate, 9 April 2018). Be Glad) was released at the Vatican. Pope Francis reflected on the call to holiness in today’s world. He We should try to see Jesus in people around said that, the Lord “wants us to be saints and not us and act with kindness. Remembering the settle for a bland and mediocre existence. The call commandment, “Love your neighbour as you love As Catholics, we are taught to imitate Jesus and to holiness is present in various ways from the very yourself” would be a good start. If our actions stem called to be “perfect” just as our Father in heaven first pages of the Bible.” from our love for people, then there is so much is perfect (Matthew 5:48). There is a universal call to potential for us to be more Christ-like. holiness by our . “Try to live a holy Pope Francis’ motivation in his Apostolic life, because no one will see the Lord without it.” Exhortation is to propose a practical way to answer (Hebrew 12:14) But holiness isn’t as elusive as it is the call to holiness. This is because the Lord has often thought to be. According to Pope Francis, he chosen each one of us “to be holy, blameless “Do not be afraid of said “Holiness is a gift God offers to everyone and before him in love.” (Ephesians 1:4) The Pope thus a response to his grace. It is living with love and comforts us as such, “do not be afraid of holiness. It holiness. It will take offering your own Christian witness in your daily will take away none of your energy, vitality or joy. tasks.” (National Catholic Reporter, Nov 19 2014). On the contrary, you will become what the Father away none of your had in mind when he created you, and you will be God has been calling us to be holy faithful to your deepest self. To depend on God sets energy, vitality or In Lev 19:1-2, The Lord told to say to the us free from every form of enslavement and lead us joy. On the contrary, people of Israel, “Be holy, because I, the Lord your to recognise our great dignity.” God, am holy.” also urges us to be ready you will become for action and live a “holy life” “Be obedient to Start taking small steps towards holiness in our God, and do not allow your lives to be shaped by daily lives: what the Father had those desires you had when you were still ignorant. • Give up your seat on the train or in church for Instead, be holy in all that you do, just as God who someone who needs it more in mind when he called you is holy.” (1 Peter 13-15). • For parents and grandparents, patiently listen to created you, and you your children and grandchildren and guide them So what is holiness for us? to follow Jesus (Pope Francis, Vatican City Nov will be faithful to Biblical holiness is not simply about good 2014) behaviour. Jesus is Holy because he is unique in this • Offer friendship to people who are lonely your deepest self. To world, set apart from all imperfections, weaknesses and evilness. As Catholics, we should use “God’s • Lend a hand to friends, colleagues and even depend on God sets Holiness” as a reference point to guide our human strangers who need help acts. To be “holy”, we need to put God first and do • Join a community group to do volunteer work us free from every what we believe God wants us to do. If our actions without worrying about commitment form of enslavement stem from love, kindness and faith, we are making • Share a smile and a word of thanks to those small steps towards holiness. around us such as waiters, cleaners, shopkeepers and leads us and bus drivers To be Holy is easier said than done • Speak out of injustice and do not worry about to recognise our Wanting to do good and be “holy” is one thing. judgement However, human minds are weak and it is inevitable great dignity.” that we will sin. Sometimes, even when we know • Read the bible and pray for strength to do the we should act in a certain way, our brains prevent right things -Pope Francis us from doing what is right. • Forgive those who have wronged us WORD | 7

Running the BY ADELINE WEE RACE Life is like a long arduous He added that “unlike Eve who thought herself marathon. It is up to us, to a “great theologian” and fell, we must never make it the best race of our dialogue with the devil because he wins, he is more intelligent than us. On the contrary, Jesus in the lives. As Christians, most of desert responds to the devil with the Word of God, us believe that we should hunts down demons, sometimes asking his name live a life that is worthy to but doesn’t dialogue.” face our Maker when we We also have to be wary of false prophets, so that reach the finishing line. But we stick to the path that leads us to heaven. “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing but just how ready are we? inwardly are ravenous wolves.” (Matthew 7:15).

Amid the secular distractions around us, His Holiness Pope Paul VI had this to say to the people: Death can come at any time. For some, our time on “Let neither the use of the things of this world nor Earth may be untimely and unexpectedly cut short. attachment to riches, which is against the spirit of For others, it is a longer journey and can be likened evangelical poverty, hinder them in their quest for to a race. We do not know when our individual perfect love. Let them heed the admonition of the race ends. Regardless, we ought to live a life that Apostle to those who use this world; let them not is fulfilling and worthy to face God when we unite come to terms with this world; for this world, as we with Him at the finish line. see it, is passing away.”

In 1 Corinthians 9:24-27, we are asked to reflect on PRACTICE WHAT WE PREACH the manner in which we lead our Christian lives: As Jesus warned at the Sermon on the Mount, “Not “Do you not know that in a race the runners all every one who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter compete, but only one receives the prize? Run in the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of such a way that you may win it. Athletes exercise my Father who is in heaven.” (Matthew 7:21). self-control in all things; they do it to receive a perishable wreath, but we an imperishable one. So I My beloved brothers and sisters-in-Christ, let us do not run aimlessly, nor do I box as though beating call upon the Mother of God to intercede and the air; but I punish my body and enslave it, so that help us. Apart from attending mass and receiving after proclaiming to others I myself should not be the Holy Eucharist as baptised Catholics, we can disqualified.” read the daily scripture reflections posted on the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Singapore website. PREPARING TO BE FIGHTING FIT We should also harness the power of prayer. This Challenges are abound when running a race, and acts as our compass so that we are set on the right the same can be said for our individual journeys path that leads us to salvation. in life. Pope Francis, for example, cautions against Thus, my beloved brothers and sisters-in-Christ, the seduction of the devil and its temptations. RUNNING WITH FAITH may we, at the hour of our death, be able to say to Speaking about this at Mass at Casa Santa Marta in We are to run our race, with the aid of the Comforter ourselves, “I have completed well”; “I have finished the Vatican on 8 May 2018, Pope Francis said “the (Holy Spirit), with joy and love in our hearts and the race; I have kept the faith.” (2 Timothy 4:7) devil (...) knows how to seduce us in our vanity lend a helping hand and lift those who stumble and curiosity and we buy everything, falling into along the way. We can help others in need while we Be confident, stay in the path of light and be temptation. Knowing that a thought, a desire or run our race. Our earthly existence today is fraught convicted, just like St Paul when he told Timothy: move is dangerous and we still go there, it is like with loads of deceitful deceptions. We must stay “The Lord will rescue me from every evil attack and save approaching the devil who is like a chained angry fully alert, least we unknowingly step off the path me for his heavenly kingdom. To him be the glory forever dog that can still bite.” that leads us to heaven. and ever. Amen.” (2 Timothy 4:18)

“Let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith, who for the sake of the joy that was set before him endured the cross, disregarding its shame, and has taken his seat at the right hand of the throne of God.” (Hebrews 12:1-2) 8| PEOPLE HOW CAN YOU TELL IF SOMEONE IS SUFFERING FROM

DEPRESSION?BY ANA M. JEREMIAH

• Make time to meet up with friends. Just being with them helps rid the feeling of isolation • Keep a journal or write letters - this is a way to express your feelings. You can even write notes to yourself, so as to encourage yourself as you would a beloved friend • Refrain from negative thoughts • Exercise – go for walks, take up dancing, or sign up for a workout class, just so you remain active. This helps release the chemical endorphins that make you feel good. • Seek help by going for counselling HOW THE CHURCH CAN HELP YOU: Family Life Society (FLS) has teams of trained para-counsellors in several centres across Singapore. In April this year, FLS started offering para-counselling services at OLPS and is already helping 20 people currently. The team visits every Wednesday evening from 7.30pm to 9.45pm, and each para-counsellor comes from a parish outside OLPS to provide greater confidentially. Do you feel down and irritable, or lethargic and • Problems with sleeping (for example, wanting to You can contact them and make an appointment by demotivated? Is there someone you know who is stay in bed all day or difficulty in getting quality calling 63820688 from Mon-Fri from 10am to 5pm. avoiding friends and is no longer participating in sleep) his or her favourite activity? If your answer to any • loss or change of appetite of these questions is yes, you or a loved one may • significant weight loss or gain have issues that need to be dealt with. Emotional According to a 2010 survey by the Ministry of • Feeling overwhelmed Health, 12.9% of people in Singapore suffer from • Guilt mental health issues, with females showing a • Irritation or frustration higher incidence. The more common problems are • Sense of hopelessness depression, anxiety, mood disorder, psychosis, and • Indecision post-traumatic stress. We will focus on depression, • Low self-esteem or lack of confidence as this often has the most serious consequences. About Family Life Society Thoughts FLS is a charity which was set up in 1985. We WHAT IS DEPRESSION? • ‘I’m a failure’ empower families, strengthen marriages and Recently, the world was rocked by the suicides • ‘It’s my fault’ uphold the dignity of life, through services of famed designer Kate Spade and celebrity chef • ‘Nothing good ever happens to me’ including marital and family therapy; working Anthony Bourdain, which took place in the space • ‘Life’s not worth living’ with women with unplanned pregnancies and of a week. Unknown to most people, the two had • ‘People would be better off without me’ their families; and education programmes for been suffering from depression. • ‘No one cares’ teens and parents. • ‘I have no choice’ Depression, metaphorically known as the black To learn more about FLS and its community of dog, is more than feeling sad or discouraged; it is CAUSES OF DEPRESSION para-counsellors, please visit www.familylife.sg a serious mood disorder that affects how a person Depression can arise from factors such as genetics, and www.facebook.com/familylife.sg/ feels, thinks and manages his or her daily life. The severe life stresses, medication, drugs and alcohol. symptoms may vary from person to person, but one Some medical conditions may also affect the way common indicator is a loss of interest in activities the brain regulates moods. that the person had previously enjoyed. The events that can trigger a descent into Those interested in this subject can also read WARNING SIGNS depression include: “Catholic Guide to Depression” which is Following are signs that you or a person you know • A change in life situation (for example, marriage, available on the Sophia Institute website. The may be suffering from depression: separation, divorce, moving in with in-laws, book talks about how the saints, the Sacraments work stress, coping with illness) and psychiatry can help you overcome Behaviourial • psychiatric disorder (anxiety, post-traumatic depression and find happiness again. • Lack of interest in appearance and personal stress disorder, sleep disorder, eating disorder) hygiene (for example, unkempt hair or signs the • New medication or a change in dosage that may person has not been bathing regularly) result in side effects • Drop in performance in school or at work • Poor concentration There are different levels of depression, ranging from • Withdrawal from friends and family (for mild to moderate to severe case. Depression can also example, not answering phone calls or text be divided into different categories such as major messages; reluctance to meet people) depression, bipolar disorder, post-partum (post-natal) • Loss of interest in activities that person used to depression etc. People suspected of suffering from enjoy depression should see a psychologist or psychiatrist • Reliance on alcohol and sedatives to get their condition confirmed or certified. • Thinking/talking about death Some tips on coping with depression: Physical • Express your feelings - talk to a friend or someone • Feeling tired all the time you can trust https://www.sophiainstitute.com/products/ • More prone to illnesses • Time management - take baby steps to resume item/catholic-guide-to-depression • Headaches and muscle pains activities that you used to enjoy PEOPLE | 9

BY VIVIAN CHUNG CELEBRATING SERVICE COLIN TAN, 17 Temasek Polytechnic, Diploma in Business Intelligence and Analytics, Year 2

10th year of service This month, we celebrate and honour the hearts of our I started serving the church on a whim and did not think much of it at first. After a few years, I realised that serving young disciples who exemplify the Christ-like values others was something that I enjoyed. The feeling of doing of humility, responsibility, love, empathy, respect and something or helping others made me want to serve more. Serving in the church has taught me many things and I got integrity. They inspire and humble us with their ability to meet a lot of people and become close friends with a to bring excellence to everything they do while staying few through our service together. available to all who call upon them. These amazing youth After serving the church for nearly 10 years, I have learnt share why they selflessly give their time and talent to the that service requires time, patience and sacrifice. There church and how they draw strength to serve. have been times I wanted to give up but thanks to my friends, I pushed on and enjoyed the memories I made with everyone. I am very thankful for all those who made me who I am today and of course, thankful to God for allowing me to serve in my church. MICHELLE LEONG, 17 Temasek Polytechnic, Diploma in Culinary ALFONZO ANTONIO, 17 and Catering Management, Polytechnic ITE College East, Fitness Training, Year 1 Foundation Programme PRISCILLA VERNON, 17 Temasek Polytechnic, Diploma in Accounting and Finance PFP 1st year of service 1st year of service I serve because I believe God works through people and I serve the ministry because I wanted to try something new st uses me as a vessel for others. I’m growing in his ocean of in the community and try different roles and serve as much 1 year of service love where I find myself at his feet constantly when I’m as I can. It helps me grow in faith and really understand During confirmation camp, I saw an image of God and lost and I seek refuge in him when I’m at my weakest. God better throughout my journey with Faith Sycas. from then all I wanted to do was serve. After serving my first camp, I felt like it was just the beginning. I wanted to know God on a more personal level. Since then, I’ve built a strong relationship by surrendering and trusting in him. TIMOTHY HWANG, 18 RYAN JOVI WEE, 17 Raffles Institution, Year 2 St Patrick’s Secondary School, Secondary 5 NATALIE TENG, 21 SIM Global University of London, Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Accounting and 2nd year of service 1st year of service Finance, Year 2 Service makes life more meaningful and allows me to give I serve because I want the teens to have the same Godly back to the community that has really helped me. I wish experience which I had in my confirmation camp. 3rd year of service to inspire others with my heart of service just as I was Whenever I see a participant at camp smiling or having To be honest I started serving because I was made to help in inspired by others. Service has helped me learn to trust a good time, there is a sense of satisfaction that sends me a Level 10 camp, but I found community in Faith Sycas and God and gave me a community where I feel at home. back to serve. have continued to serve. Everyone has been welcoming, and I had the space to grow both spiritually and as a person through our weekly sessions and events. FERNANDEZ, 20 RACHEL JOVIENA WEE, 19 Temasek Polytechnic, Diploma in Temasek Polytechnic, Diploma in Communication Design, Year 3 Biotechnology, Year 3 EVALINE WOON, 20 Coach, St Andrew Autism Centre 4th year of service 3rd year of service The heart of service allows me to build myself by opening I serve because I want others to experience God the way myself up, connecting with others and being a part of I did and to build a trusting relationship with Him that 4th year of service their journey in Christ. The simple things in life such as will last forever. Whenever I serve, God always reveals Serving has built my character and it has taught me a lot of bringing joy, lending a helping hand or a listening ear new things to me through the people I meet and through things like teamwork, leadership skills and accountability. allows me to bring them sunshine on their rainy days. serving, I learn how to be humble and a servant leader. This allows me to give back to the community. If there is a need for a skill set that I have, I will fill in that need.

RAFAEL PANOPIO, 19 ANGELICA PANOPIO, 19 MDIS, International Foundation Diploma Singapore Polytechnic, Diploma in in Travel, Tourism and Hospitality RANDY MINJOOT, 23 Architecture Design, Year 3 Management, Year 1 Civil Servant

4th year of service 4th year of service I serve so that others may experience what it is like to Having the opportunity to serve allows me to guide and 5th year of service surrender themselves to God and just let Him guide journey with people in their personal spiritual journey. I do If you were born with the ability to change someone’s their lives. My service helps me grow spiritually from the so in Media or as a Facilitator at Faith Sycas. This allows me perspective or emotions, never waste that gift. It is one of the constant influence that comes from the people around me to grow in my spiritual faith while spreading the word, as I most powerful gifts God can give-the ability to influence. and motivates me to give my all in my service. also learn more about God in my journey with them.

JOACHIM LAI, 26 DARSON JOCSON, 18 ZHANG, 17 Freelance Sound Engineer Republic Polytechnic, Diploma in Temesek Polytechnic, Diploma in Integrated Events Management, Year 2 Mechatronics and Aerospace, Year 1

5th year of service 2nd year of service 1st year of service If I believe in something, be it an objective or a cause, I I’m just so in love with this religion ever since I received I got to experience God last year when I was a participant feel that just standing by the side lines and cheering this revelation in 2015 that our God is so great and full at the confirmation camp. It’s a wonderful feeling and that is insufficient. Joining the fray and being shoulder-to- of love. This has made me want to serve God and do his made me want to volunteer to let others encounter God shoulder with comrades leads to growth and paves the work. just like I did. way to build His Kingdom. 10| MANDARIN

永援圣母军支团 蓝而通 永援圣母堂主保敬礼 Legion Of Mary—OLPS Praesidium OLPS feast day 永援圣母军支团成立于1962年，至今已有56年的历史了。目前团员人数有14位， 记录：林淑琴，苏雪萍 辅助团员有44位。 文章：陈静芳 圣母军的宗旨在于成圣自己，圣化他人。我们通过每日诵念玫瑰经，勤读圣经， 相片：黄瑞心 以信德的精神和圣母联合在一起，执行主耶稣的使命，那就是：“你们往普天下 去，向一切受造物宣扬福音。”（谷16：15） 弥撒结束前， 圣母军的周会是在每个星期二晚上8时到9时30分。所有团员必须准时出席支团 陈光华神父致 周会，并在会中，确实地、响亮地，报告自己在过去一周内的神修工作及实际工 王春新神 谢词 作。 父证道 圣母军的工作性质主要有以下几点：探访家庭、教授天主教要理、探访病人及老 人，在他们有需要时通知神父去拜访；接触冷淡教友使他们回归主的怀抱，尽力招 募圣母军新团员，接触非教友鼓励他们参加慕道班；每年的5月和10月，到教友家 庭推动家庭玫瑰经。圣母军团员每年一定要出席区团检阅典礼、区团常年大会、避 静、支团典礼、支团户内活动。希望通过神修和实际这两方面的各项工作，加强团 员们的归属感和爱主爱人的精神。 我们祈望圣母玛利亚助佑，能感化更多的教友，特别是年轻人参加圣母军这个意 义重大的组织，为拓展天主的神国注入新的力量。

公元2018年6月19日至24日为本堂主保敬礼。这期间每天晚上7时15分 开始诵念玫瑰经，8时正举行感恩弥撒，24日正日那天，傍晚5时15分开 始诵念玫瑰经、赞美敬拜，6时正举行感恩弥撒及圣母态像烛光游行。 6月19日那天，在本堂华文教务委员会的带领下，掀开了敬礼仪式。 今年的主保敬礼主题是“被选、回应、转化”，主祭是王春新神父，辅 祭的有陈光华神父和黄飞翔修士。当天晚上来参与敬礼活动的除了本堂 教友之外，还有来自别的堂区的华文教友，可见王神父的风采、内涵、 风趣和幽默有一定的魅力。 在证道时，王神父告诉我们许多人生和信仰上的哲理。神父说被选的 人很多，但回应的人就少了。他以自己在神学院修读时的事件为例，当 时13个修生中到最后回应天主召叫而晋铎成为神父的只有3个，其他10 个都结婚生孩子去了。成为神父以后，诱惑还是存在的，当诱惑到来 时，神父以他特有的智慧，转向圣母玛利亚求助，把魔鬼的诱惑转化为 依靠天主的力量，在司铎的道路上走得更稳健。 王神父引用圣伯多禄和圣保禄两位宗徒的书信，以圣言告诉我们，所 有的教友都是蒙天主召叫的，都是天主祝福的，都是行走天主道路的 人。所以我们要学习主耶稣的谦卑、良善，要敞开自己的心胸谦虚的学 习，学习原谅与宽恕，从内部改变来更新自己，加强自己的信德，在领 圣母军团体照 受上主的恩惠之后接受派遣去传福音。 聆听了王神父的证道，我的理解是：在信仰大道上努力学习求进步就 是被选、回应后的转变。 认识佘金发神父 阿们！阿们！ Fr. Edward Seah 陈静芳 公元2018年5月21日，新加坡吴诚才主教委任佘金发神父为永援圣母堂的 副本堂神父，以代替被调去别间教堂服务的欧世杰神父和Fr. Bruno Saint Girons。 佘神父于2013年8月8日进铎，成为神父已有5年的历史。目前，他 除了在永援圣母堂服务外，还兼任总教区天主教学校委员会执行董事 （Archdiocesan Commission for Catholic Schools, ACCS, Executive Director Dec 2014-present)，实龙岗教区圣母军神师（The Legion Of Mary Singapore）以及公青团神师（Young Christian Students’ Movement YCS）。佘神父属实多才多艺，是我们教会的荣幸。 由于家庭背景的关系，佘神父能说也能听得懂简单的华语，阅读和书写就 不行了。但是佘神父的潮州话讲得很好，如果华文教友们想和神父交流， 可以用潮州话与神父沟通。 除了繁忙的工作外，休闲时间，佘神父喜欢散步和欣赏美术作品，对画画 也有浓厚的兴趣。 “我是葡萄树，你们是枝条；那住在我内，我也住在他内的，他就结许 多的果实，因为离了我，你们什么也不能作。谁若不住在我内，便仿佛枝 条，丢在外面而枯干了，人便把它拾了起来，投入火中焚烧。”（若15 ：5-6）这是佘神父最喜欢的圣经佳句，常常用它来勉励自己要做‘结好果 子的葡萄枝条’。 祝愿神父在永援的时光幸福、快乐，充满圣神的恩宠，带领永援广大的教 友们在信仰的大道上迈进。

弥撒后，佘金发 神父和教友们交 流，以了解本堂 教友们的需求。 DID YOU KNOW? | 11 MODERN MARTYRS: Unwavering Faith till the Very End

“Blessed are those who are persecuted for righteousness’ sake, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.” (Matthew 5:10) Here in Singapore, we do not think much about being persecuted or killed because of our faith. But such dangers are a reality for our brethren in many parts of the world, even in countries where Catholics make up the majority. Here are three modern-day martyrs who lost their lives, but helped and inspired many in the process.

Photo by Archbishop Romero Trust (romerotrust.org.uk) Photo by Arc Missioni Consolata website Photo by Catholic Herald UK

OSCAR ROMERO SISTER LEONELLA CLEMENT SHAHBAZ Archbishop of San Salvador SGORBATI BHATTI (1917-1980) (1940-2006) Pakistani politician (1968-2011)

Born to a poor family in El Salvador, Oscar Romero Sister Leonella Sgorbati was born in Rezzanello di Gazzola Clement Shahbaz Bhatti was born to Roman Catholic entered the seminary at the age of 14 and was ordained a in northern Italy in 1940. When she was 25, she entered parents in Lahore, Pakistan in 1968. Since his youth, he was priest in in 1942 at 25 years old. Romero was known the convent as a Consolata Missionary Sister. an activist and helped found the Christian Liberation Front as a social reformer because of his work with the poor, and to fight for the rights of Christians and other minorities in eventually became Archbishop of San Salvador in 1977. She spent more than half of her life in Africa, first arriving Pakistan while still a student at the University of Punjab. in in the 1970s and serving as superior general of Archbishop Romero was also known for his weekly radio the Consolata Sisters from 1993 to 1999. She moved to In November 2008, he took up the position of minister sermons that reached out to many Salvadorans during in 2001 to open a training centre for Somalians for minorities in the Pakistani government, where he a period of terrible violence. During these sermons, he who wished to become nurses at the country’s only continued to campaign tirelessly to reform the country’s listed disappearances, murders and other abuses by El hospital back then. blasphemy laws despite multiple threats to his life. Salvador’s military-backed government at the time. Pakistan’s blasphemy laws are often used to incite hatred On September 17, 2006, as Sister Leonella was leaving against non-Sunni Muslims and other religious minorities. On March 23, 1980, Archbishop Romero appealed directly the nursing school, Islamist gunmen shot Sister Leonella to soldiers and policemen to stop the violence in the name and her bodyguard several times. She was rushed to a On March 20, 2011, Bhatti’s car was sprayed with a barrage of God. The next day, he was shot dead while saying Mass hospital but died soon after as a result of her wounds. of bullets. He was pronounced dead upon arrival at the at a hospital. Their deaths came a week after Pope Benedict XVI gave nearby hospital. a speech quoting a Christian emperor’s criticism of , Only moments before his death, Archbishop Romero worsening anti-Christian sentiments across the Muslim Four months before his murder, Bhatti recorded an spoke these prophetic words: “Those who surrender to world. interview with the BBC that was to be broadcast in the the service of the poor through love of Christ will live like event of his death, where he said: the grain of wheat that dies… The harvest comes because Her last words, according to those around her, were “I of the grain that dies.” forgive, I forgive, I forgive.” “I believe in Jesus Christ who has given his own life for us. I know what the Cross means, and what it means to The United Nations has named March 24 the “International Many Islamic leaders in Somalia condemned the killing, follow the Cross. And I’m ready to die for the cause of my Day for the Right to the Truth concerning Gross Human emphasising that Sister Sgorbati had been serving the suffering community, and I will die to defend their rights.” Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims”. His people of Somali. She was 65 at the time, and had worked courageous acts are also commemorated through El in Africa for 35 years. Rowan Williams, the former Archbishop of Canterbury, Salvador’s main international airport, which is named describes Bhatti as a martyr, and a Pakistani diocese has after Archbishop Romero. Sister Leonella was formally declared a martyr by Pope started the process of enquiry towards formally declaring Francis in 2017. the late politician a martyr. Pope Francis beatified Archbishop Romero in May 2015, and the late clergyman will be canonised on 14 October 2018 in Rome. 12 | SPOTLIGHT

In Spotlight, Good OL Times features Instagram-worthy images from parishioners of how they recognise God in the small or ordinary things. This issue we turn the spotlight on a recent pilgrimage of Camino de Santiago, where our parishioners and Fr Bruno experienced God in nature. Walking via the Le Puy route in France, they journeyed for 11 days in July, covering a total of 200km in the hot summer!

GOT-GRAM: PHOTOS BY EUGENE CHUA #SeeingGodinEverything TEXT BY SAMANTHA CHAN

Group photo from L - R: Eugene Chua, Edith Koh, Agatha Ng, Natalie Ng, Fionna Kwok, Samantha Chan and Fr Bruno Saint Girons

We walked between 16 – 27 kilometres each day during the summer heat of 29 - 37 degrees! It was not easy and we suffered from blisters and muscle aches!

We took the popular and scenic Le Puy route, also called “Via Pondiensis” (736km in total) which is one of the four popular French pilgrimage routes towards Santiago. It starts from Le Puy and ends at the border town of Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port. From there, it actually takes another 774km to reach Santiago!

Despite facing physical, emotional and spiritual challenges, our group was rewarded with the views of the scenic French countryside. It was a good break from our busy lifestyles in Singapore.

ABOUT “THE CAMINO” Camino de Santiago or Way of St James is an ancient pilgrimage from 9th century Spain, when remains of the Apostle St James The Greater were found. A cathedral was built to house his remains. The first known routes of the Way was made by King Alphonse II, who set out from the town of Oviedo to Santiago to verify the remains of St James. It is now known as the Camino Primitivo or the Original Way. As word spread, pilgrims started walking via many routes We formed new friendships, and began to experience God's love through Nature. Even the flowers and bees from all across Europe to visit this sacred burial site of one of spoke of His Love for us. After 11 days, we arrived at Conques, where we concluded our pilgrimage. Jesus’s apostles. Like branches of a tree, all arrive in Santiago de Compostela. Over the years, the church grew to the epic To view more photos of the team’s pilgrimage, visit www.facebook.com/singaporeonthecamino Camino de Santiago Cathedral that stands today.