Saint Thomas More LifeBlog

To all you Awesome Teens out there! This is for you!

2011-01-19T02:15:00.001+08:00

STM Teens Ministry

There will be Music, Drama, Food and Friends!

We are meeting up this Saturday at 4pm for our first Teens gathering.

Come and Bring a Friend!! J

Date: 22^nd January 2011

Time: 4:00pm to 6:00pm

Venue: Bosco Goretti Youth Centre. (Above Jojo’s Little Kitchen)

View Larger Map

For more information or in need for transportation, please contact Martin Koh at 012-6712690 or email: martkoh@gmail.com

We're BACK!!

2011-01-19T02:08:00.003+08:00

Happy new year from us in Lifeline! We are official launching Lifeline for this year 2011 this Friday. We would like to invite all College students and Young adult who are residing in Subang Jaya and USJ. Do come over to the Bosco Goretti Youth Centre at SS15 and let your hair down this week!

Details are as below:-

Date: 21^st January 2011 (Friday)

Time: 8:30pm

Venue: Bosco Goretti Youth Centre. (Above Jojo’s Little Kitchen)

View Larger Map

For more information or in need for transportation, please contact Martin Koh at 012-6712690 or email: martkoh@gmail.com.

World Youth Day 2011

2010-09-28T02:43:00.002+08:00

It's going to be an awesome experience to know that we're all professing the same faith; to really know what it feels like to be a ONE CATHOLIC AND APOSTOLIC CHURCH.

Fools For Christ?

2010-09-17T02:24:00.005+08:00

"What am I doing? I look stupid in this costume. How did I get myself into this?"

Ever thought to yourself why you've been subjected to that kind of humiliation? LOL! The answer is simple! We are all fools for Christ!! Amen!!

St Paul in his lifetime was rejected by many and they called him a fool wherever he went. He took the humiliation for Christ just for the sake of the Gospel. But did he ever stop? NO! He kept going on. And because of his great love for Christ, the Gentiles (which is us by the way) have the fullness of the truth! Aren't we lucky and grateful that St Paul was a fool for Christ?

So then my dear brothers and sisters in Christ, STM Lifeline is offering this lifetime course to be Fools for Christ and tonight is the first class! The best part is....it's free registration!!! Come sign up at the Bosco-Goretti Youth Centre @ SS15 (2 floors above Jojo's Kitchen) at 8.30pm. It's gonna be absolutely fun! I'll let you in on a little secret, everyone is eligible if not talented at being fools so why not become fools for Him? If you need any further info, just call Martin @ 012-671 2690.

"People kept poking me and some asking, 'is that Crisabel?'. So memalukan.
Fools for Christ man..."
- Crisabel said this after holding Oprah's enlarged face whilst promoting the STM Lifeline Camp, 2010 -

"Planted and built up in Jesus Christ, firm in the faith" (cf. Col 2:7)

2010-09-15T16:39:00.004+08:00

That is the official message of the next World Youth Day in Madrid, Spain in 2011! For those of you who have not heard or know exactly what the World Youth Day is all about, here's a short clip to watch and understand this international Catholic event that happens every 4 years and the significant role it plays in our Catholic Church today.

For more info about the World Youth Day 2012, please visit here.

And of course, for those of you who are interested to go for this auspicious event please contact Martin @ 012-671 2690.

Are you spending too much time on the Internet?

2010-09-14T03:22:00.003+08:00

I saw this article in a news feed and thought it's a pretty good read. Eric Sammons shares his online experience when debating or discussing or even just commenting on Christian issues/values/apologetics. He simply summed it up as "Rules of Engagement for Catholics on the Internet".

Always remember the superiority of the real world over the virtual world.
Your salvation is more important than your involvement on the Internet.
Don't ever say anything on the Internet that you wouldn't say in person.
Don't write anything in anger.
Don't stereotype people.
Take at least one day off a week from the Internet.
Always assume the good intentions of others.
Remember who the real Enemy is.
Remember that God resists the proud.
Don't just go to Catholic sites.

To read more about this article, click here.

Youth BEC: St Therese of Lisieux

2010-09-08T10:47:00.003+08:00

St Therese of Lisieux is a Carmelite nun who is also known as the "Little Flower". Her short life has been an inspiration to many. What she has done, the little deeds and sacrifices that are done in secret proved to be more worthy.

"And your father who sees in secret will repay you"

So come and join us as we share together on St Therese; about her life, her ways, her thoughts and her deeds.

For more info about St Therese of Lisieux, click here.

To find out where we're meeting up, call Martin @ 012-671 2690.

See you guys there!!

STM Lifeline Camp 2010 Pictures are out!

2010-09-02T03:18:00.003+08:00

Hey peeps!

For those of you who missed out on our very first STM Lifeline Camp 2010, here are "some" pictures. There's just so many to upload and choose from so please bear with us as we continue to upload many more yahh?

From what we gather, some of us have truly experienced God's divine love and forgiveness. Hence we would like you to share with us this experience to further grow with you in faith. So do drop us a testimonial anytime ya?

God bless!

STM Lifeline Camp 2010

2010-08-30T00:42:00.003+08:00

WE ARE BACK FROM THE MOUNTAINS!!!

And we are ready to proclaim the Good News and be witnesses for Christ! Amen!

It was an awesome weekend with crazy-friendly-hyperactive-noisiest bunch of people! But it was with God's grace that the camp came together and everything flowed smoothly. Bro Anthony and Bro Bernard were very eloquent speakers and have done much to tickle our funny bone with stories of romance and experiences.

Thanks again, the committee did a great job and thanks again to the participants who made it the best first STM Lifeline Camp 2010!!!

Pictures will be uploaded soon!

Ask Somebody Else 5: Long long time ago..

2010-08-26T00:51:00.000+08:00

Ask Somebody Else 4: In Dagobah...

2010-08-24T17:23:00.000+08:00

Ask Somebody Else 3: Across the Seven Seas...

2010-08-24T06:27:00.001+08:00

Saint Thomas More Lifeline Camp: Early Birds! Tweet! Tweet!

2010-08-19T15:11:00.001+08:00

I have some news of great urgency, the time for the early bird is drawing near. And we really do want you guys to grab this opportunity to book your places early. It's only RM120!

Maybe you're not convinced about the camp so I've uploaded hot stuff about the speaker so you'll know you're missing out heaps if you don't sign up now!

And in your free time, do help us out fill up this 15-second-survey to just humour us, really.
I'm not a Christian survey
I'm a Christian survey (if you have registered online then you wouldn't have to take the survey)

Saint Thomas More Lifeline Camp 2010 : Ask Somebody Else

2010-08-18T04:31:00.002+08:00

STMLC 2010 : 15-Second-Survey

2010-08-16T09:57:00.002+08:00

Hey peeps!

I need a favor from you guys, could you please spend only 15 seconds to complete this survey? This is so that we know what the grass roots say about the theme,"What I do to inherit eternal?"

So here are the links:
I'm a Christian Survey
I'm not a Christian Survey

So again, thanks heaps and may God richly bless your lovely fingers for filling up the form. :p

Saint Thomas More Lifeline Camp 2010

2010-08-13T02:50:00.012+08:00

After such a long journey, we are finally here. Saint Thomas More Lifeline is having our.......very first Lifeline Camp!! Praise the Lord!!!

So all those who are 18 to 35 years young are definitely invited to join us. And it's at the best time of the year to watch fireworks from the clouds. Just kidding! But alas, it is a time of celebration for our country's independence as well as our first camp! We're all excited about the program and anxious about the preparations to ensure everything is taken care of.

Now a little bit more about the camp itself, we're now at the peak of our youth. Some of us may have asked ourselves life provoking questions like "What is my purpose on earth?" or "Is heaven really for REAL?" or "Do sinners like me go to heaven?". Guess what? Actually no guessing, I'm telling you that we have all the answers. So......ASK US.

Keep updated through our blog here.

Adrian Ng's Ordination to the Permanent Diaconate

2010-08-10T10:25:00.006+08:00

Praise the Lord! I was wondering when this day would come. :p

If you don't already know, our dear Adrian Ng (this guy has done many great awesome things here in STM Lifeline, also one of the co-founders of Lifeline itself) is going to be ordained to the permanent diaconate on the 11th of August 2010 in St Peter's Church, Malacca at 7.00pm.

For those of you who want to go and experience this ordination which is quite rare in Malaysia, so suggest that you head down to Malacca for this lifetime experience! Perhaps then, you will be touched by the Holy Spirit and be called to the religious life as well!

Here's a map for those of you who are driving down or if you don't have transportation but would absolutely love to go, please contact Martin @ 012 671 2690 if there's still space, ya?

View Larger Map

Some of you are probably wondering what a deacon is. To put it simply, a deacon is ordained as a sacramental sign to the Church that he is to be a servant in a servant-Church. For more questions like, "Can married man become a deacon?" or "Why do some deacons become priests?", read more here.

The Reluctant Saint

2010-08-02T12:45:00.003+08:00

PREACHING THE GOSPEL ANEW

The Redemptorists are celebrating 75 years of their presence in Malaysia and Singapore. In conjunction with the celebrations is the production of the musical - The Reluctant Saint. It was first performed 13 years ago as part of the 300 year celebration for St Alphonsus Liguori and very well received.

The musical is based on the life of St Alphonsus de Liguori, the founder of the Redemptorists Congregation. Born into a noble family in Naples, Alphonsus' life as a young hotshot lawyer takes a turn when he answers God's call to serve. It is a story that tugs at your heartstrings and a musical that entertains. Performing in the musical is a talented cast made up of young and old members backed by crew members who have come together from different backgrounds to tell this story.

The musical is also being performed in order to raise fund for the Redemptorists Congregation in Haiti. The Congregation there suffered tremendous loss and destruction of their buildings in the major earthquake in January this year.

All donations will go to the Haiti Disaster Relief Effort for the Redemptorist Mission.

So, "The Reluctant Saint" Musical is only in town for a one time only and not to be missed! I'm not sure if it's already sold out but here are the dates anyway.

MALAYSIA
Venue: Pentas 1, The Kuala Lumpur Performing Arts Centre (L:PAC), Kuala Lumpur
Tickets: RM25 (standard seats) & RM100 (premium seats)
Dates:
11 Aug (Wed) - 8.00pm
12 Aug (Thu) - 8.00pm
13 Aug (Fri) - 8.00pm
14 Aug (Sat) - 2.00 & 8.00pm
15 Aug (Sun) - 2.00 & 8.00pm
24 Aug (Tue) - 8.00pm
25 Aug (Wed) - 8.00pm
26 Aug (Thu) - 8.00pm
27 Aug (Fri) - 8.00pm
28 Aug (Sat) - 2.00 & 8.00pm

SINGAPORE
Venue: The Republic Cultural Centre (TRCC), Singapore
Performance Dates: 6-9 September 2010.
Showtime: 8.00pm
Matinee: 2.00pm

For more info, visit www.cssr.org.sg or drop them a line at thereluctantsaint@hotmail.com or call 017-230 7093.

On a personal note, I know it's going to be great because Fr Patrick Massang is singing too! You guys out there if you haven't bought your tickets, you're going to miss a spectacular performance!

Why Do Catholics Honor Mary?

2010-05-22T01:25:00.003+08:00

Since it's the month of Mary, I thought this video could shed some light about Mother Mary and why we honor her as the Mother of God.

Why Catholics Need to Proclaim the Gospel?

2010-04-08T00:54:00.002+08:00

We find that our brothers and sisters are proclaiming the Gospel everyday. So why are we, Catholics then so laid back when we have the fullness of the truth? Have we taken the truth for granted? What should we do?

Date: 9th April 2010, Friday
Venue: STM Youth Centre, SS15 (Lot 30-3, SS 15/4D, Above Jojo Kitchen - or girls if you know where Cat Whiskers is; it's right next to it)
Time: 8.30-10.30pm.

Taylor's Catholic Society is finally here!

2010-04-06T19:03:00.004+08:00

After a long awaited time, Taylor's Catholic Society is now established and making its mark here in Subang Jaya. By God's grace we are able to get this club up and running! Praise the Lord!

So come one come all! We are now inviting all you Taylor's students to come and share our faith together! Our very first official meeting is as follows:

Date: 14th April 2010, Wednesday
Time: 5.00-7.00pm
Place: Lakeside Campus, Lecture Hall to be confirmed
Contact: Jessica at 016 - 203 8667

So feel free to drop them a line anytime at taylors.catholics.society@gmail.com or join the group in Facebook!

Blessed Easter Everyone!!

2010-04-05T01:09:00.003+08:00

"If God is for us, who is against us?" -Rom 8:31-

This Lent season has truly been a cleansing period for all of us. And as we came together and celebrated the Tridium Masses, we have journeyed together with Jesus and shared in his passion to the Cross. Those who have also been journeying with our brothers and sisters to receive the new light and become a part of the great big Catholic family, we thank you for your perseverance and of course to our newly baptised and confirmed brothers and sisters, "WELCOME HOME!"

Therefore, enlightened by the light and spirit of Easter let us go forth and spread the news of our salvation, of our victory over death. Amen.

Pope Benedict's Easter message.

Central : WHO?

2010-03-18T21:42:00.000+08:00

Tomorrow we have a special speaker from Penang. She's someone young, vibrant and passionate for Christ and His Church. And she will share about her experience of what it means to clothe a naked person, feed a stranger when they are hungry, visit when they are ill and invite the homeless. Nowadays times have changed. It's not that extreme anymore but rather, it's like between me and the guy at the back of the class. Who is he?

Venue: STM Community Centre
Time: 9.00pm.

*Way of the Cross starts at 8.30pm. Come join together as one community as we walk down the Via Dolorosa.

Live Like We're Dying

2010-03-15T02:44:00.003+08:00

Hey y'all! STM Teen Ministry is on the bounce! Come catch Jesus Christ LIVE this Saturday!

Double WOOT!

To Genuflect or Not to Genuflect?

2010-03-10T11:53:00.005+08:00

Now that is the question. Often enough you notice people doing different things in Church. But we are all practicing the same Faith right? Why do people either genuflect or bow before you enter the pew? or the Tabernacle for that matter? Why do we do the things we do? Why do some do things differently? What is the right way? Why do we follow Traditions?

Here's a pretty comprehensive explanation.

Keeping The Faith

2010-02-10T19:25:00.003+08:00

Imagine if you were asked to give up your career, possessions, sex life and the possibility of ever having children. It's a way of life many women worldwide gladly accept in order to serve God.

Click here to find out God's calling for you.

A really nice article from Oprah.

http://www.sistersofmary.org/

Gong Xi Fatt Cai!

2010-02-10T00:36:00.002+08:00

We are taking a short break for the upcoming Chinese New Year of the Tiger. But we will resume with our normal central gathering next week on the 19th of February 2010, Friday as usual at 8.30pm.

Although Lifeline may not have any CNY event, you are most welcomed to come to my house for cookies, oranges and of course we can bring out the WII!!

God's Chisel

2010-02-03T15:06:00.003+08:00

I came across this video which is pretty interesting. Take a peek!

Shuttle Service is back

2010-01-28T22:15:00.003+08:00

This is the bus. :D

So peeps! Our shuttle service is back! Do take note that we only provide for the 11.30 mass. Please be punctual at the stated area before the stated time as the bus will leave without you if you're late.

The shuttle times and stops are as such:
1st stop (10.00am): Taylors Business School (TBS), Main Campus Area
2nd stop (10.20am): Ridzuan Condominiums, Mentari Court Area
3rd stop(10.45am): Sunway/Monash Area (In front of Sun-U Residence)

This is a FREE service for all who would want to use the bus hence we would also welcome any Love Offering for the service to subsidize the cost. RM 1 is great!

PLEASE DO NOT feel pressured to give as this is a service for you. God loves a cheerful giver! (2 Cor 9:7)

Would love to see all of you for Mass and God Bless!

*Again a reminder to be on time.

Lifeline is ReOpening Again!

2010-01-28T02:12:00.003+08:00

Hey peeps,

We're back again for a fresh new 2010. It's going to be a great year! And what's even better is that our first central gathering is tomorrow! So come one, come all and head over to STM Community Centre at 8.15pm.

We welcome all young and old peeps to join us as we gather together again as God's family to worship him and to always grow in faith and love. So please bring your friends, room mate, house mate, course mate, cyber cafe kaki tomorrow!

Peace out!

STM Prayer Vigil

2010-01-21T11:13:00.006+08:00

Our Silent Vigil will be on this Friday, 22nd January 2010 at the STM Community Centre. The Vigil will commence with Mass at 8.00pm and ends at 12.00am. Please join us as we submit to the Lord our building of our Permanent Place of Worship.

Vatican launches iPhone, Facebook?

2010-01-15T02:21:00.005+08:00

I was just surfing my usual dailies and decided to take a walk outside the park and stumbled into this. The headlines caught my attention, "Vatican launches iPhone and Facebook applications" and so; in May 2009? Why was I not in the loop? Whoa, and here I thought I was spending too much time in Facebook. Even The Pope was spending time in Facebook with his Fb application, "The Pope Meets You on Facebook". You can even send virtual postcards to your friends with messages and speeches of The Pope embedded. Amazing! Here's the link.

I feel proud that our Catholic Church recognizes the power of social media in the digital world and is encouraging the people to evangelize and spread the Gospel online!

Pope Benedict says,

Young people in particular, I appeal to you: bear witness to your faith through the digital world! Employ these new technologies to make the Gospel known, so that the Good News of God’s infinite love for all people, will resound in new ways across our increasingly technological world!

So let's harness this technology to its fullest potential and share our faith in cyberspace!

2009Full text of Pope Benedict XVI's Message to Mark the 42nd World Day for Communications. Click here.

2010 - A new beginning

2010-01-06T00:58:00.003+08:00

Hey peeps!

I know many of you are asking, "When is Lifeline opening this year?" and the answer is.....SOON! Stay tune and I'll slip in the details. :p

Also a little sneak peak, who's up for a big thrill? I'll give you a hint, it has something to do with high places. If you can guess let me know!

Still not too late to say this, Happy Blessed-Fruitful-Wonderfully Two Thousand and Ten!

Happy Blessed Christmas!

2009-12-25T03:06:00.002+08:00

Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. - Matt 11:28

2009-12-22T02:52:00.003+08:00

Honestly, I really miss my Sunway life...where I have a lovely society there. I miss central gathering and cell group badly...I am now in Indonesia, undergoing such a stagnant life...without any spiritual activities except Sunday mass..I feel something empty in my heart...may be some of you experience the same thing..but I do not know how to describe it further...Today (3rd December 2009) I want to share a bit about today's Gospel....

Actually few weeks left since I read my daily Gospel, I don't know why but I just don't read it for a while though I am not busy here. My brain and my thinking only full of worries, yaa...I worry bout so many things...feel so much problem happen lately and make me far from God..I think...feel so emo, lonely, sad and empty. I worried bout my future, my relationship, my new chapter of life, my family, my surroundings.......All that things just cause me headache, give me so much pressure as problems everywhere...and I am alone here, I don't have friends to share and everyone also got his or her own doing.

But..last night, I went to bed quite early, around 9PM, I already jumped on my fluffy bed and when I wanted to turn off the light, I saw my daily Gospel book, my heart like ask me to open it...I grab it and start flip the pages till 3rd Dec....and here it is today's Gospel Mat 7:21,24-27 (I do not need to type the Gospel as I believe most of you have read it before starting your day).
What comes and really knock my brain is the reflection stated in my daily Gospel:

"Possibly we have watched a child, who is afraid of the water, jump off the side of the pool into the arms of a loving parent. What causes that child to jump? It is trust in the parent. Why does the child trust the parent? The parent has shown, through love, that he or she will not let anything bad happen to the child. We should have that child-like faith in God. It is not a blind, leave-your-brain-at-the-door type of trust or faith. God does not want us to check our brains at the door. He has given us plenty of proof, not only of His existence, but also of the truth of His word.
Do we trust God with the big things, like our eternal home, but not trust Him in the little things, like our jobs and finances? We must trust God in the little things as well as the big things. Do we believe that God cares enough about us to look after those things well? God has so much of His love for us, that is only reasonable to trust that He will take care of the little things in our lives"

After I read the reflection, I am stunt for a while...my tears drop one by one....I never experienced of flipping Bible and find a correct verse or something like that like those people who shares during the central gathering, but last night...after a while I live so called "far from God" without any spiritual life, after a while my brain full of worries, sadness and disappointment of myself.....I feel God just remind me that I do not need to worry so much..just trust Him....and all will be alright....

and at that time, I smiled, I put back my daily Gospel book, I turn off my light and pray my daily prayer before I sleep....in my prayer, I thank God that He remind me tonight and He brings me back, He take out all my worries, pressure and burdens,..I feel so happy and release....and I slept.......so peacefully and release....

Selamat Hari Natal is the thing to say on a bright Malaysian Christmas day..

2009-12-13T23:58:00.003+08:00

Hey guys just so you know this Christmas we are singing at center stage, KLCC. We're singing on the 16th, 19th, 20th, 23rd, 24th and 25th as well. So if you're free, come down to KLCC and support us! We usually sing in the afternoons and evenings.

So see ya!

A BIG BIG thank you for all those who came to support us! We are absolutely thrilled that you guys want to even come and watch us sing. So we thank you again really for making your way to KLCC to hear us out! May God richly bless all of you! Praise GOD!

Anyway, here's a request for our schedule :p :

23rd (Acapella) - 5pm, 7pm, and 8.30pm.
24th - 4.30pm, 7pm, and 8.30pm
25th (The Churchy ones :D) - 4pm, and 7pm.

So hear ye, hear ye!

Penitential Service

2009-12-02T01:09:00.003+08:00

Those who missed the Penitential Service at STM, here's a schedule for the other Churches in the vicinity:

St Ignatius Church, Kelana Jaya - 4 Dec (Friday) @7.00pm
Our Lady of Guadelupe, Puchong - 7 Dec (Monday) @ 7.00pm
St Francis Xavier's Church, PJ - 8 Dec (Tuesday) @ 7.00pm
Assumption Church, PJ - 9 Dec (Wednesday) @ 7.00pm
Divine Mercy Church, Shah Alam - 15 Dec (Tuesday) @7.00pm

On another note, please keep the PAG Team in your prayers as they continue to prepare for the camp this upcoming week. Pray for the smooth sailing of the programs as the Holy Spirit move in each every one of them. Amen.

And Jason Loo shares...

2009-11-29T01:34:00.001+08:00

My brothers and sisters in Christ,

I want to share with you two parts of my life that has been life changing. Nothing more, just two parts.

The first started back in 2004. It was a bad year for me. I had a hard time coping with college, the people and the work that came with it. The change was so drastic for me that before I could stand up to what it had to offer, I fell again and again. I desperately needed help, and by the grace of the Lord, my cousin Richard and good friend Aaron were there to lift me back on my two feet.

This was when Richard introduced me to Lifeline. I had a chance to meet new people and at the same time, find my faith among them. Truth be told, I was brought up a Catholic not really knowing what it truly meant till the day I joined Lifeline. I’ve learnt so much from scripture and in those who keep to their faith that, it has been a journey and an experience unlike any other. For this, I am thankful to many who have nurtured me along the way, your guidance has been nothing but incredible and I thank you for that. Being a realist, I find it difficult at times to hold on to a faith that clashes with our free will to choose. But time and time again, I have realised that the Lord indeed listens to our prayers if we have the time to set aside part of our lives for Him.

The second has to do with loss. I lost someone close to me in 2005, and it was the single most terrifying moment I had to go through. She had a great future ahead of her, yet life had to take its course too early before I could say my goodbyes. Four years on, I still do not understand why the Lord had to take her away, but I have taken it as an important lesson in life. Rest assured I take comfort in knowing that she has gone to a better place, somewhere I hope that I could go to when my time is up.

Before I end, let me share with you a passage from scripture:

“We can be confident that He will listen to us whenever we ask Him for anything in line with His will. And if we know He is listening when we make our requests, we can be sure that He will give us what we ask for.”
1 John 5:14-15

Have faith in the Lord and with the power of prayer, we can be sure He will be there to listen.

He’s Not That Into You Vs. Christian Courtship

2009-11-26T01:52:00.004+08:00

Some of us have left Malayan waters and will only be back next year. It's going to be a little bit quiet this time round. But it's okay, we'll bounce back when we open Lifeline again to a whole brand new year in January 2010!

And for some of us, have left for good. :( We really hope that you have taken back something from Lifeline and continue to spread the love of God everywhere you go. Be witnesses of Christ to the people around you. "You will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you and you will be my witnesses - Acts 1:8"

If you are shy to talk to people about God, here's an avenue of where you can express it. Write to me your testimony of how Jesus has moved in your life. Here's a blog set up by Carmel especially to share His love with others. The blog is maintained by Carmel and Andre. If you are not sure what to write, here's a link for a simple guideline. They have some interesting articles as well, and I would like to highlight the "He's Not That Into You vs Christian Courtship" which I thought was pretty insightful.

Christ @ Work 2009

2009-11-17T01:59:00.006+08:00

Hey peeps, for those of you young working adults who would like to grow spiritually, socially, and professionally are encouraged to attend this conference in Singapore! It's a Bi Annual Catholic Conference In Singapore For Working Adults which is held on the 5th of December 2009 at the Catholic Junior College Performing Arts Centre, Singapore. Attending the conference will help you better understand God's plan for you at your workplace, family and church and equip you with the right skills to be witnesses of God. You will hear from multiple talented speakers with exciting and passionate stories of God's workings in their lives.

It's only $60 dollars for a Power-packed Spirit-Filled Full Day Event (inclusive of Lunch, Tea Breaks & Conference materials). But do take note that $60 is only for group registration of at least 5 people. If you're going alone, it's $65 per person. So bring a bunch and take a road trip down to Singapore! Oh I forgot to mention that for students is only $40 dollars.

Check out the web or download the pdf and read later. If you're interested, please contact either Suzanne or Martin or you can always email us at stmlifeline@gmail.com.

Shuttle Service

2009-11-11T02:12:00.004+08:00

This is the bus. The bus driver's name is Kumar. Next time tegur sapa lah :p

For those of you who don't know, St Thomas More Church is providing a shuttle service for the 11.30 Mass every Sunday for only this month, November (before and after Mass). Shuttle services will resume some time in January which we will update later.

The shuttle times and stops are as such:
1st stop (10.00am): Taylors Business School (TBS), Main Campus Area
2nd stop (10.20am): Ridzuan Condominiums, Mentari Court Area
3rd stop(10.45am): Sunway/Monash Area (In front of Sun-U Residence)

Please be at the stated area BEFORE the stated time or else the Bus will le...ave you.

This is a FREE service for all who would want to use the bus hence we would also welcome any Love Offering for the service to subsidize the cost.

PLEASE DO NOT feel pressured to give as this is a service for you. God loves a cheerful giver! (2 Cor 9:7)

Would love to see all of you for Mass and God Bless!

*Again a reminder to be on time.

Don't Throw Lahh

2009-11-08T17:28:00.005+08:00

BEAT School of Music

2009-11-08T02:25:00.005+08:00

Hear ye, hear ye,
All those who have "taugehs" in their ears, listen!

Emmanuelworship is excited to announce the launch of the 'emmanuelworship BEAT School of Music' in 2010. The school will run from the 8-12 January in Brisbane.

The BEAT School of Music is designed to gather Catholic musicians and vocalists for four jam-packed, fun days of learning and growing in both ability & worship. The BEAT will train and cast vision for contemporary Catholic music in the Church. There are a bunch of great presenters from emmanuelworship and beyond who will be involved in the practical training and formation.

The registrations are now open, so check out the website for more details and to register. This will be an incredible experience and we look forward to seeing Catholic musicians rise up to lead this generation in Worship.

Find out more here!

Youth Sponsored Mass + 25th October 2009

2009-11-05T00:29:00.004+08:00

A great BIG thank you for all those who have put in effort, commitment and passion in making the Mass meaningful, vibrant yet solemn. I appreciate each and everyone, big and small contributions, truly solemnly I tell you your reward is in heaven. :D

The Mass was truly beautiful and solemn. Many said that it was refreshing to see the young people coming forward to serve in Mass. A communion minister said, "It was a breath of fresh air," and walked away smiling. So peeps, I look forward to our next youth sponsored Mass as we come together as one community to receive The Body and Blood of our Lord Jesus Christ. Amen.

The few of us who were still lingering around :p

"The ultimate purpose of dating is marriage"

2009-10-31T01:37:00.003+08:00

My first encounter with or, uhmn, how I know about Christian courtship was about 3-4 years ago. I was infatuated with a friend who is a man of God (I can sense his head growing as large as a watermelon). I can’t remember how it went in detail, but I think I was asking him about his view on dating. He said the most shocking and horrifying thing! He said (I can still remember it word by word), “the ultimate purpose of dating is marriage.” I was still wild back then and haven’t experience conversion, so I cursed (silently of course). I thought, ‘wut da *beep*. Dating should be fun! Why be serious about it’. Later on I found out that dating IS serious, but can be fun as well.

Anyways, the guy was right. The ultimate and the only purpose of dating is marriage. So, no more ‘I like you, you like me, let’s go out and we’ll see where this relationship goes.’ NO! Harsh, I know. But, don’t you think dating is such a waste of time if we think that way? Don’t you think we will be spared from confusion, insecurities and not to mention heartaches, disappointments, and emptiness due to the lack of vision of the future and/ or failure of the relationship. Sure, most people we know got married after starting a relationship like this. But, have you ever counted how many times they have experience failed relationships before it?

Christian courtship, like the secular dating, starts with attraction. It may be a one or both sided attraction. Afterwards, discernment comes in. In a very simple explanation, Discernment is a process of internal search where we seek God’s will to determine the best decision. It involves a lot of prayer, meditation, reading God’s word, sharing about it with a trusted friend in faith and pray together, and most of all, being aware of the presence of the Holy Spirit and listen to His voice in with a surrendering heart. God, in His mysterious and intimate ways, will tell us His will.

Ah, you may say that I’m a nut case, but what is foolish to the world is pleasing to God (cf. 1 Corinthians 1 : 27). I tried it out last year. I was interested in a friend of mine because he showed true and sincere love for God and His Church. My kind of guy, I tell you. So I decided to discern about him. During discernment, I continue being friends with him. I tried to know him in a more personal level. There was no flirting whatsoever (so different to the bad ‘ol days). We shared about a lot of things, testify about God love, pray together, pray for each other should one of us need God’s strength. Days went by and feelings grew, however it didn’t grow towards the direction that I wanted. My love for him as a brother in Christ got stronger whereas my infatuation didn’t develop into love for a man. There was nothing wrong with him (or with myself). He was perfectly human and I accepted his flaws. But, in my heart, he was my brother and wouldn’t be more than that. Then I felt God had answered my prayer. I accepted this outcome even though I was a bit disappointed. Honestly, I wanted it to work so badly ‘cause I haven’t been in a relationship in a loooong long time. I was kindda desperate but I had no regrets. I thanked God for the feelings, the process and the outcome. I knew it was the best for the both of us. When the guy told me he fell for a girl (a lovely young woman, I must say), I was delighted although I felt a pang of jealousy (okay, I was VERY jealous). But, I continued being there for him as a sister in Christ. So, this is how I was assured that Christian courtship can work!

That’s about pre-courtship. How about during courtship? During courtship, it’s crucial to put Jesus Christ as the center of the relationship. Not the girl. Not the boy. Not me. Jesus alone. With Jesus at the centre, the problem of co-dependency is eliminated as each person is solely responsible for his/ her happiness and the source of his/ her happiness is Christ alone. Then, there’s sexual purity. A boundary is needed when it comes to physical expression of our feelings. We may say a kiss is just a kiss, but a kiss may weaken our will and strengthen the desire of our flesh. Another important thing is Communication. People get to know each other in a deep and personal level through communication. We’ll find out about each other’s strength & weakness, dreams & fear, vision& mission for the future, priorities, interests, etc, through communication. Some may be acceptable, some may not. Then, with constant prayers God will inform us, in His mysterious and unique way, whether the relationship should continue to the next step – Marriage. Even if a couple decides to not continue with the relationship, by God’s grace, they will not feel overly heartbroken about it. Beautiful isn’t it? I hope I’ll experience this in His time.

Bus Stop

2009-10-29T01:47:00.000+08:00

The Last Supper!

2009-10-21T03:44:00.003+08:00

Hey peeps! Didn't think it was already time for Lifeline to close for the year so soon! The year was awesome possums and I truly felt this year, the graces we received just overflowed our cups totally! Praise God! Even so, all good things come to an end but it does not mean that our ministry ends here. We continue to go forth in our mission fields as Good Catholic Christians enriched by the Word of God and empowered by the Body and Blood of Christ to evangelize the love of Jesus Christ.

So as we gather this Friday at 8.30pm at the STM Community Centre for our last central for the year, let us cuddle together in oohs and ahhs and laughter as we reminisce the good'ol times throughout the year. Here's a treat from 2006.

Lifeline back then. ;)

"My grace is enough for you; my great strength is revealed in weakness"

2009-10-17T23:12:00.006+08:00

My Mission Trip Experience To Sabah
By Crisabel T. Tiu, Lifeline STM

When I heard that Potter and Clay program was having a mission trip to Sabah, I was really excited. I was excited because it was my hometown, the experience I could learn, the people we’ll be meeting and I had this feeling of satisfaction of finally being able to do something good for others and for the redemption of my soul!! Harrharr… Anyway beforehand, Anne Yong and I went out for short briefing on the mission trip, Stacie was able to join bit later, and while we were having lunch at a restaurant, we bumped into Sandy and she joined us in our discussion where Anne asked her to help translate some prayers etc. into malay and following that, she mentioned to Stacie and I that going for missions we have to be open to whom God sends and especially what God wants to give or do in ourselves. I understood what she said but took it lightly and subconsciously thought that there’s nothing much I need to receive, I was keen on my ability to give and help out.

During most of the days in mission trip though I really enjoyed it and had fun, sometimes I would seem ok or happy on the outside but deep inside I felt terribly depressed and heavy, it really brought my whole being down and I felt anger and rejection in my heart. I felt lonely because of the struggle I had to go through alone, feeling no one could understand what I was going through. I asked God again and again why I was feeling this way, for Him to take it away and was really disappointed and ashamed of the weaknesses in me that really surfaced to my knowledge during the trip. Before going for the mission trip, we gathered together for briefing and prayer, as we took turns to pray in a circle, I closed my eyes and saw a shadow-defined heart shape with light seeming to radiate from behind, along the prayers I felt warmth on my forehead and tears couldn't help but flow. I didn’t really understand why the reaction for it was only normal prayers we were having.

During the trip, memories also eventually resurfaced which brought a sense of regret of what could have been done but wasn’t, occasions I didn’t appreciate and hurtful memories. Along the trip I felt useless for not being able to give much and at some point of these feelings bundled up together which gave a lot of pain in my heart I tried to suppress which was really torturing emotionally and spiritually for me. After a while I realised that even before the trip I was already feeling burdened inside firstly because of certain hurts from situations in my family, relationships and other little things along my life that built up feelings of rejection, envy and hurt. In the Divine Office prayers we did with the villagers and with much reflection, it struck me that God was trying to tell me that there was much I was lacking, that inside I still needed a lot of work and healing. His words seemed so alive to me, coming to my sense what Living Word was all about, He didn’t have to talk to me in that booming voice I wanted to hear but He spoke so gently through the Divine Office, Divine Mercy prayers and ultimately through the mass we attended. I noted specially the Gospel on that day, 2 Corinthians12:7-10….Lest I become proud after so many extraordinary revelations, I was given a thorn in my flesh, a true messenger of Satan, 3 times I prayed to the Lord that it leave me, but He answered, “My grace is enough for you; my great strength is revealed in weakness.”…..So I rejoice when I suffer infirmities, humiliations…persecution: all for Christ! For when I am weak, then I am strong. Receiving The Eucharist truly gave me so much peace and joy knowing that He’s always there for me, that my tears couldn’t stop flowing. I felt so renewed.

I was also caught up in my pride subconsciously thinking that I was more worthy in doing God’s work when instead I needed to have humility to be able to admit these weaknesses and I needed to receive help, healing and His graces before I can be able to serve in love. It’s true that no one can give what he does not have. These were the things I was ignorant towards and that I had to fully surrender, He brought it to my attention all what I was oblivious towards. It reminded me that it has been a while I’ve been praying for God to change my heart, called to mind the heart I saw in the beginning, suddenly it made sense to me, in His great love and mercy, He heard my prayers and wanted to change my heart and His shining rays wanting to bring what is hidden to light and thus being able to surrender what’s unknown for cleansing. I’m truly amazed by how much He wants to give us but what we often are unaware of, how much He wants to speak to us but often we are so insensitive towards. There are many weaknesses and struggles faced and I pray that always I can always change to become a better person, if not more Christ-like even in sorrow and hardships, to be able to receive and give humbly.

To Blog or Not To Blog?

2009-10-07T01:56:00.003+08:00

"The special challenge before you, is to find ways to ensure that the voice of the Church is not marginalized or silenced in the modern arena of the media. You have a role to play in ensuring that the Gospel is not confined to a strictly private world. No! Jesus Christ must be proclaimed to the whole world; and therefore the Church must enter the great forum of the media with courage and confidence."

-Pope John Paul II-

(quoted from Shouts in the Piazza Blog)

Mass Explained

2009-10-07T00:20:00.005+08:00

They say most Catholics don't understand their faith, and quite rightly true. So come this Friday for a comprehensive Mass Explained this Friday, 9th October 2009 at the STM Community Centre at 8.00pm. Please take note, that it is a Eucharistic Celebration nonetheless so please come dressed appropriately. I'm sure most of you know that Fr Simon Labrooy is away on a pilgrimage in London hence the Mass will be presided by Fr Michael Raymond this Friday.

Since Fr Michael Raymond is around for the entire week, he is also presenting the Gospel of Mark on both Wednesday and Thursday nights at 8.00pm at the STM Community Centre. Everyone is welcomed to attend.

Why Do Catholics Don't Evangelize?

2009-10-05T01:57:00.006+08:00

We are so blessed by the the presence of Dr. Sherman Kuek, SFO for last Friday’s talk on "Why Catholics don’t Evangalize?”

Just to sum up what he said.
Our silence to proclaim and to dialogue with our friends or neighbours speaks about the level of importance of Christ in our lives, thus the question "Why Catholics Don't Evangelize" reflects our very relationship with Jesus Christ, the Son of the Living God.

Want to know more, please go through this insightful article that he has written in the CANNews not too long ago. Click here.

The first Peninsular Malaysia Conference

2009-09-28T01:13:00.012+08:00

Our Archdiocesan Ministry of Ecumenical and Interreligious Affairs (AMEIA) has organized the first Peninsular Conference in hopes that it will be a common platform to bring together Catholic organizations and individuals who are already engaged in or are interested to start interreligious and ecumenical programmes, activities and ministries within the three Roman Catholic arch/dioceses of Peninsular Malaysia. The speakers and presenters are Rt Rev Bishop Antony Selvanayagam DD., Rev Fr Michael Chua, Rev Fr Jojo Fung SJ., Dr Sherman Kuek, Dr Asma Abdullah, Dr Claude F. Jacobs, Dr Patricia Martinez, and Rev Fr William Larousse, MM. More details:

"Peninsular Malaysia Conference on Ecumenical & Interreligious Ministry"

This will be held at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre (APC)
from the 10th to 11th of October!
RM 60 (non-stay in) and RM 90 (stay in)
Click here for more info on the programmes and such.
Here's the brochure. (outside) (inside)

"World Religions in Metropolitan Detroit" Exhbition
which they have brought all the way from Michigan, US. The exhibit is a collection of photographs mapping world religions in metropolitan Detroit called "The Pluralism Project".
Date: 6th - 11th October
Time: 9.00am to 5pm
Venue: Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre (APC)
OPEN TO PUBLIC
Admission is free!
For further, inquiries, please contact Ms. Anglin Anthony at Tel: 03-20266466

Here's a sneak peak.

Mandean - Al-Masbatta ("Baptism Ritual") Before a Wedding
Kensington Metro Park, Michigan

“Photography and Religious Space” Workshop
Date: 9th of October
Time: 2.30 to 4.00 pm
Venue: Dewan Dominic, Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre, Kuala Lumpur .
OPEN TO PUBLIC
Admission is free!

Ideal for photography enthusiasts, both amateur and professional. Religious space presents some of the most dramatic and interesting themes for photography. The director of the Pluralism Project in UM-Dearborn, Dr. Claude Jacobs and William McNeece, the director of photography will be present at the workshop to share their wealth of experiences in this special area of photography and religious space. Participants would find opportunities to learn aesthetic and technical skills as well as necessary protocol.

I would encourage all to go and find out a little more about photography in sacred places and learn a few more things about your faith and what opportunity to have religious from the US! Awesomeness! Please inform Suzanne or your Cell Group leaders and then we'll see if we can arrange some transport if not go there pilgrimage style! :D

The Catholic stance on the many faiths

2009-09-26T13:30:00.005+08:00

Hey peeps!

Come next Central Gathering, we're having Dr. Sherman Kuek over at St Thomas More! WooOT! It so happens that he is around and we have gotten him to do a session for us about the three main faiths in our country and what is the stance of the Catholic Church about them.

Some of the questions that you might have already asked yourselves like:
What is the Catholic Church's position on people of other faiths?
How we should relate with them?
What evangelisation means in this context?

The place to be is at the STM Community Centre on the 2nd of October 2009, Friday at 8.30pm. All are most welcomed to attend and of course please bring along a friend. =D

Anselm - Theologian and Defender of Church Freedom

2009-09-24T05:50:00.008+08:00

VATICAN CITY, 23 SEP 2009 VIS - St. Anselm, one of the most outstanding figures of the Middle Ages, was the subject of the Holy Father's catechesis during his general audience, held this morning in the Paul VI Hall.

St. Anselm of Canterbury, also known as Anselm of Aosta and Anselm of Bec, was born in the Italian town of Aosta in 1033. The eldest child of a noble family, his mother gave him a careful human and Christian education. During his youth he went through a period of moral dissipation and excess during which he abandoned his studies. He then travelled to France in search of new experiences and eventually reached the abbey of Bec, drawn there by the fame of its prior, Lanfranco of Pavia. There, at the age of 27, he embraced the monastic life.

Three years later Lanfranco was appointed as abbot of Caen and Anselm became the prior of Bec. In his new role he "revealed gifts as a sophisticated teacher. He did not care for authoritarian methods and, likening young people to saplings which develop best if not closed in a greenhouse, he granted then a 'healthy' measure of freedom. He was very demanding with himself and others in monastic observance, but rather than imposing discipline he sought to make people follow it by persuasion", the Pope explained.

When Lanfranco of Pavia was appointed as archbishop of Canterbury, England, he asked Anselm to help him in educating the monks and in dealings with the ecclesial community, which was facing difficult circumstances in the wake of the Norman invasions. On Lanfranco's death in 1093, Anselm succeeded him as archbishop immediately entering "into an energetic struggle for the freedom of the Church and courageously supporting the independence of spiritual from temporal power. He defended the Church from undue interference by the political authorities, especially King William Rufus and Henry I". His faithfulness to the Pope caused him to be exiled in 1103.

Anselm died on 21 April 1109 having dedicated the last years of his life "to the moral formation of the clergy and intellectual research into theological questions", whence Christian tradition has bestowed upon him the title of "Doctor Magnificus", said the Holy Father. He went on: "The clarity and logical rigour of Anselm's ideas always sought 'to raise the mind to the contemplation of God'. He made it clear that anyone who intends to study theology must not rely only upon his own intelligence but must also cultivate a profound experience of faith".

"In St. Anselm's view, then, a theologian's work is divided into threes stages: faith, God's gratuitous gift to be welcomed with humility; experience, which consists in incarnating the Word of God into daily life; and true knowledge, which is never the fruit of sterile reasoning but of contemplative intuition".

"May the love for truth and the constant thirst for God which characterized St. Anselm's life be a stimulus for all Christians tirelessly to seek an ever more intimate union with Christ", said the Pope, and he concluded: "May the courageous zeal which distinguished his pastoral work and which sometimes brought misunderstandings, bitterness and even exile, be an encouragement for pastors, consecrated people and all the faithful to love the Church of Christ, ... never abandoning or betraying her".

You can view the video here.

YOUTH SPONSORED MASS

2009-09-16T16:32:00.004+08:00

Yo! Just to let you guys know, we're gonna start sponsoring Mass at St Thomas More's Church every month. So we need people to step up to serve for Mass. We need people for the choir, offertory, projectionist, and hospitality ministers. So as you can see there are a lot of vacancies!

So don't be shy! Come and SERVE GOD!

Just inform your CG leaders and likewise leaders please get back to me by the end of the month. For those of you who wants to be in the choir, Mass practice starts next week, Tuesday (22nd Sept) at 8.00pm at the STM Community Centre!

'Allah' Case: Court to hear Church suit on Oct 14

2009-09-15T02:16:00.004+08:00

KUALA LUMPUR: The High Court here will hear on Oct 14 the Catholic Church’s bid to prevent several Islamic bodies from interfering in its ongoing suit against the home minister’s ban on the use of the word “Allah” in its newspaper.

Judge Lau Bee Lan made the decision in chambers today.

Lawyer for the church, Porres Royan, told reporters that the church had filed an application at the High Court here to recall and set aside its earlier decision allowing some 10 state Islamic Councils as well as the Malaysian Chinese Muslim Association (Macma) to intervene in the case.

Judge Lau had on August 3 ruled that the state Islamic councils could intervene in the church’s suit against the home minister on the basis that their legal rights as advisers to the rulers, who sit as heads of Islam in their respective states, would be gravely affected by any decision taken by the court.

But Royan said the Federal Court, headed by Chief Justice Tun Zaki Azmi, had on Sept 3 ruled to bar the Selangor Islamic Council (Mais) from entering as an interested party in a dispute between the Shah Alam City Council (MBSA) and Bong Boon Chuen, together with 150 landowners, over Islamic burial land in neighbouring Selangor.

The top court’s most recent decision in Bong’s case sets an example for the High Court here to keep interveners out.

Lawyer for Mais, Abdul Rahim Sinwan, said the state Islamic councils would challenge the church’s second bid to remove them from intervening in the “Allah” case.

He pointed out that the Federal Court had made two conflicting rulings on whether or not interveners could be allowed in.

Abdul Rahim noted that the Federal Court had ruled to allow bodies to intervene in an earlier case.

...read more

Exaltation of the Cross

2009-09-14T12:01:00.002+08:00

"How great the cross, through which we have received a multitude of blessings, because, against all reckoning, the miracles & sufferings of Christ have been victorious! How precious, the means of God's suffering, & his trophy of victory! On it of his own will he suffered unto death. On it he won his victory, wounding the devil, & conquering death, & shattering the bars of the underworld. The cross has become the common salvation of the whole world." (from homily of St Andrew of Crete)

Monash Annual Mass 2009

2009-09-12T01:24:00.002+08:00

Calling all youths around Sunway area, today (yes, today, Saturday) Monash Catholic Society is having their Annual Mass at Auditorium 2, Monash University. It starts at 3.00pm with Father listening to confessions prior Mass. There will be dinner served afterwards for students only.

So come and dine and fellowship with the Lord and the students of Monash as we gather to celebrate Mass in union with the entire Catholic Church. Amen.

JMJ2011 Madrid

2009-09-08T05:45:00.003+08:00

MADRID, Spain, JULY 30, 2009 (Zenit.org).- The logo for World Youth Day 2011 in Madrid was presented today: The image reflects youth of the world beneath the cross, united to form the crown of Our Lady, patron of Madrid.

The upcoming World Youth Day is scheduled for Aug. 16-21, 2011.

The logo designer, José Gil-Nogués, explained that the image symbolizes "youth of the whole world united to celebrate their faith together with the Pope, at the foot of the cross, and they form the crown of Our Lady of Almudena, patron of Madrid."

The crown, Gil-Nogués added, forms the "M" of Mary and of Madrid. And the cross, symbol of Christianity, presides over the event.

The message of the logo, the designer continued, is "a catechesis, an opportunity for evangelization: The quick and sure path to reach Christ is the Virgin Mary, Mother of God and of mankind. In Mary's faith, youth have the example and model for reaching Christ and fulfilling the primary goal of World Youth Day: to bring their message to the world."

"The logo has a firm and spontaneous stroke," Gil-Nogués suggested, "like youth of the 21st century. It is close, friendly, open. Joyful, carefree and positive."

"The use of a palette of warm colors -- red, orange and yellow -- transmits unmistakable warmth and friendliness, symbols of the identity of a city like Madrid, a nation like Spain. These colors also reflect the 'divine warmth' of Trinitarian Love."

The logo was selected after a competition among professional graphic designers.

The World Youth Day logo is out! I feel excited about going. What say you? I say start saving now!! WoOT! Benedicto!

2009-09-02T02:45:00.000+08:00

Why Do We Obey?

2009-08-24T00:31:00.007+08:00

I must say that the last central gathering at our STM community centre was a little different. It was refreshingly good and hilarious. A big heartfelt thanks to Dr Sheena Toyat for making it easier to understand why do we obey God, why do we obey other people and yet, why do we still disobey? Definitely a simple-straight-to-the-point talk. Again, Dr Sheena Toyat :D thanks for breaking it down for us! Praise the Lord! *I wish I can post up some pictures but I was busy laughing so...maybe next time :p

Anyhow we got to our Lifeline tradition of mamak-ing after central and ended up in Restoran Sri Bidara (RSB). And this time, we have pictures!!

One end of the table

The other end of the table

Somewhere in the middle

Anti-socials for awhile until they moved in together

Lifeline STM Camp 2009

2009-08-21T02:45:00.008+08:00

Oi peeps!

I have a depressing announcement to make....*sigh* I think you guys have heard that the confirmants camp has been canceled due to the H1N1 outbreak thus unfortunately it applies to us as well. We will not have our very first Lifeline Camp this year. In any case, it could be a blessing in disguise so guys don't despair, continue to pray for God's will to be in our lives and in our community.

In any case, there's always a back up. :D There's the Lifeline SFX Camp which is this coming 29th - 31st August 2009. So if you're interested, please contact Suzanne asap!

Great Flight Packages. Book now!

2009-08-16T23:53:00.002+08:00

Barré Cornerstone

2009-08-11T17:06:00.005+08:00

HAPPY HOUR IS HERE!!!

Barré(Bar) Cornerstone is an open event having a bar concept (strictly Non- alcoholic), we'll be staying sober and rocking the night away with good music, performances, and singing...

Drinks, sandwiches and snacks will be on sale to raise funds for the building of a permanent place of worship for all. (In support of this fundraising, please do not bring outside food/drinks)

All are invited to come and chill out and relax and give their support for this fundraising event. Do invite your friends to make this a meaningful night!

ENTRANCE TICKETS: (includes a Welcome drink & free snacks)
RM10 (purchase before event, ticket booths open after every mass at STM, or contact us to book tickets)
RM15 (purchase on the day itself)
*update: limited seats left only!

For all who are interested in performing for this event or further inquiries please contact:

Aaron James
Email: roadfacer@hotmail.com
No. : 017-2583348

Aaron Lee
Email : chowkueyteow@gmail.com
No. : 012-6299191

Check us out at Facebook!

GOD ALWAYS LISTENS, COMMUNICATES, AND ANSWERS PRAYERS!!

2009-08-10T14:32:00.002+08:00

Yuliana Halim herewith share her testimony at the greatness of our Lord. :D

In the past week, I’ve been working part time at a place nearby St Ignatius Church. At first, I was glad that I can spend time at church after working hours but it never happened until the last day because there was always something on when I want to go to church.

Recently I feel frustrated about my future but beforehand I really praised God that I can graduate on time. Reason being, I’m now jobless and not knowing where I should belong to. I started complaining how tiresome it was and it’s starting to take a toll on me.

So on the last day of work, 5th August 2009 I decided to go to church. However I was late for Mass. I felt sad but because I really needed time to be alone to talk to God in His house, I decided to pray at the Grotto, venting my frustrations at Mother Mary about my fears, confusion and desperation. After 10 minutes of prayer, everyone was coming out from Mass and I moved inside. As I walked in, I saw a woman kneeling in front of the Blessed Sacrament. At first I thought there was a confession session going on because I saw her with a man talking seriously. As I started to pray, a girl’s scream emanated the entire hall. I looked for the source of scream and found the woman and man I saw earlier was actually praying for the girl which was being possessed. I felt scared and stopped praying for myself instead I started to pray for her. It took some time for the bad spirit to come out. The scariest part is when the girl could suddenly scream so loud and shout “Shut up”. I can’t speak in tongues or sing the Holy Spirit song so I just kept on praying Our Father, Hail Mary and Glory Be constantly. And at the same time asking God why He kept the girl suffering when all the while I knew He was there but just not helping her straightaway. After a while, the girl finally was able to calm down and stood up straight. They were praising God because the demon had come out. I felt good and excited from afar because I somehow participated in “helping” exorcising the evil spirit from an unknown person.

It was time to go home so I walked to Kelana Jaya LRT station all the time thinking and reflecting. I felt all my prayers were answered. Incidentally, I remembered the night before as I was reading the daily reading which was about a woman asking God to help her daughter who has been possessed. God rejected at first but because of her great faith, God was moved. When I read that, I asked myself why God refused to help her the first time she asked. I kept wondering and fell asleep. In witnessing what just happened, I felt God was saying that He did not reject to help the woman, instead wanted to see how great a faith you have in Him. I realized a few things and would like to share are:

Whenever I feel God didn’t hear my frustrations about my future, what He was trying to say is, “Woman, why do you have such little faith and doubt me. I have prepared a great future for you and would bring you no harm as your Heavenly Father.” In the same instance as the Bible reading, He asks us to constantly have Faith in Him which also ties in with the possessed girl at church. Although it took some time to get the demon out, I felt that God wanted us to pray to Him and have Faith in Him that He will cure her.
In the end, I ended up praying for someone else instead of praying for myself. It’s like a reminder, “Hey Yuli, your problem is nothing compared to someone else who has a bigger problem and needs your intercession.”
He is present everywhere and always listens to our prayer. On the way back home, I praised God for that day and while waiting for the bus I said a simple prayer. From afar I saw a bus coming, and ended my prayer saying that if God really hear all my prayer then let that bus be my bus and He did it. That really was my bus. I really do feel the joy that words cannot describe. Don’t take it as a test from God but instead knowing that His presence is everywhere.

Last but not least, He hears you, answers your prayers and has counted every tear that drops from you.

Amen.

Life is beautiful if we give it a chance

2009-08-08T03:29:00.018+08:00

Our dear post-con shared about abortion and it was a very good session. In response to that, I've enclosed extracts from the brochure and handouts. This info could prove useful if you encounter a situation as such.

You formed my inward parts. You knit me together in my mother's womb
~ Psalm 139:13 ~

Left: Silation & Extraction (till 8 months), Right: Aborted after 9 weeks.

Abortion is "the intentional or unintentional expulsion of a pre-born child at any time after fertilisation and before the natural birth process is completed." Although illegal in Malaysia (Abortion Act 1967), Muslims allow abortions for foetuses below 120 days and most private clinics will perform an abortion for as low as RM300.

But is a foetus a life?
All entities fall into one of the three categories: alive, dead or inanimate/inorganic. It is clear that when the two live cells (the woman's ovum and a man's sperm) fuse together, the result must be another live cell. We also know that fertilised eggs experience a very high rate of cell division (cell division does not take place in a dead or inanimate being). Fertilised eggs are also not dead otherwise they would naturally miscarry or be reabsorbed by the mother's body.

Virtually every medical school textbook says human life begins at fertilisation. Sometimes, however, the argument is made that before the soul enters the body, there is no life and therefore abortion is permissible. But even if we held this argument, because of the uncertainty over the exact moment of "ensoulment" and the possibility that the foetus has alraedy been ensouled, the risk in an abortion of killing a life can never be justified.

How serious is this sin?
The Catholic Church's Code of Canon Law #1398 states that all who procure abortion shall be automatically excommunicated from the Church. This includes boyfriend, husband or parent who drives the pregnant woman or girl to the abortion clinic, pays for the abortion in full or in part, or even advises that abortion may be an option. The sanction of excommunication also applies to the abortionist, nurse, counsellor and anyone else who aids or assists in an abortion.

How to help a friend dealing with abortion?
You have to LEAD.

LISTEN

Encourage her to talk about her feelings, her worries, her guilt, her fears. Help her feel secure and convince her that all is not lost. Some helpful questions would be:

How do you know you're pregnant?
How/when did you first learn that you were pregnant?
Who have you told about your pregnancy? (Parental notification is crucial)
What difficulties do you think the pregnancy will create for you?
What difficulties do you think the abortion would solve?
What difficulties do you think an abortion would create?

EMPATHIZE

Try to react empathically to her. Avoid sermonizing or lecturing; instead try to communicate with empathy, not sympathy. Feel with her, not for her. Empathy can be communicated in many small ways, such as:

Make eye contact.
Nod your head in encouragement.
Listen carefully to verbal and nonverbal communications.
Reflect on key statements.
Wait patiently through tears and silence.

AFFIRM

One of the most beneficial thing a friend can do for another in troubled times is to communicate unconditional love and acceptance. Affirm her that you love and accept her for who she is whether she goes for the abortion or not. Don't be afraid that accepting her unconditionally may make her more likely to for an abortion. Withholding affirmation at such a time bears a much greater risk of harm.

DIRECT

Help her understand that God can bring good out of the most desperate situations. Remind her that she is not alone and that there is time to make decisions carefully and rationally. Guide her to carefully consider to alternatives to abortion:

Adoption
Marriage
Single parenthood

For a friend who has already aborted a baby, you should direct her through to reconciliation with God (confession) and help her seek God's healing grace.

For more info, please let us know and we can provide you the brochures and materials pertaining to the above issue. Or rather if you have a friend in such need, please seek help from The Good Shepherd Temporary Shelter for Unmarried Mothers. Call Sr Helena, RGS at 05-546 7031 or 012-462 1341.

The brochure is copyrighted by the Church of St Francis Xavier in 2005. The "LEAD" portion is done by Justin Ng.

Lifeline SFX Camp

2009-08-04T18:17:00.009+08:00

Our sister, Lifeline SFX is having their annual camp this year on the 29th, 30th and 31st August at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre (APC). The theme, "The Splendour of the Truth" really opens our eyes to the richness of the Church's ancient secrets(well not really but since we have forgotten about them that it has become almost secret like) and history.

Who better than to bring them down to earth and "easier" for us youth to understand is none other than Dr Sherman Kuek. Dr Sherman Kuek, SFO, is a Catholic lay theologian. He is a professed member of the Ordo Franciscanus Saecularis, an 800 year-old Franciscan Order approved and recognised by the Holy See, which consists of laity and diocesan clergy. At an ecumenical level, he is a guest speaker and lecturer in various academic and ecclesial contexts. At the archdiocesan level, he serves as Research Associate for the Archdiocesan Ministry of Ecumenical and Inter-religious Affairs (AMEIA) and an editorial team member of Catholic Asian News (CANews). At the parish level, he serves as a Pastoral Associate. Sherman studied for his doctoral degree in Systematic and Contextual Theology at Trinity Theological College Singapore.

So I urge those who are interested in apologetics and theology to join in these 3 days exposure to learn more about our Lord Jesus Christ and His Church. Hop on the journey for only RM 80 (working adults) and RM 60(students). As usual, contact Suzanne for registration. Before that, we have a criteria for those who want to attend this camp, you MUST give a talk on the subject that was shared at the camp. Who's up for the challenge?

Speaking of which our very own Lifeline STM Camp is also coming soon in September!! It's during the Raya Holidays so no excuse to not attend! We'll make sure we have rendang, sambal belacan and ketupat there as well. So of course we don't mind you guys joining the camp over at SFX but...you'll have to come for ours as well since it is our FIRST year on our own!! And to give you guys a teaser, we're having Dr Sherman Kuek as well! Double BONUSES! Boo Yah!

The Lisbon Chamber Choir - Coro de Camara de Lisboa

2009-08-01T02:37:00.001+08:00

This internationally renowned choral group from Portugal will be performing at the STM worship centre from 1st August til 2nd August at 8.30pm. This is a joint project with Jesus Caritas with proceeds going to help build our permanent place of worship. Please support this wonderful event.

On this beautiful evening, not only will the Lisbon choral choir serenade us but we will also have the wonderful KL Children's Choral Choir! In addition to that, we have the Kristus Aman Youth Dancers to entertain us with a number or two on the dance floor! Brace yourselves for an enjoyable crazy night!

Most of us are planning to go on the 2nd of August. If you need us to book and buy the tickets for you, please let us know asap! Or call Suzanne @ 013-2245523.

Update: Those who have requested for reservation of tickets are listed as below. I'll be there at 7.30pm. It's a first come first serve seating so please be early.

Saturday (1st August 2009, 8.30pm)

Stacie
Charlotte
Hana
Charlotte's housemate
Yuliana
Anthony Chan
Sherry Chan
Sandy
Sandy's friend
Erik Tan
Lidiana
Kris Laziest Bum
Marsel
Ella
Jessica
Liona
Vianney
Andrew
Crisabel
Matthew
Uncle Peter
Aunty Rosey
Terrence
Eliza
Maria
Maria's friend
Mark
Anne Sim
Jessyca
Leia
Lydia
Michael
Christine
Michael's dad
Michael's mom
Adrian Yong
Stella Yong
Suzanne
Aunty Rosey's niece 1
Aunty Rosey's niece 2
Glori
Ben's friend

Sunday (2nd August 2009, 8.30pm)

Nita
Andrew Lim
Stephanie Ng

*Those who still wants to go, please call me to find out if I still have tickets coz' I just might have extra. Thanks heaps!

Traditional Latin Mass Draws Young Working Adults

2009-07-29T12:50:00.005+08:00

SINGAPORE (UCAN) -- "Dominus vobiscum" (the Lord be with you), the priest says, and about 40 people answer, "Et cum spiritu tuo" (and with your spirit). The priest then turns his back on them and continues the opening prayer facing the cross and tabernacle.

What immediately strikes a first-time visitor to this Mass, organized by the Traditional Latin Mass (TLM) movement in Singapore, is the congregation. The young working adults, mostly in their 20s, who make up about three-fourths of the people were born after local languages replaced Latin in liturgies following Vatican Council II.

Educated young TLM members "read Church documents and want to worship in the way the Church wants them to," Tay said. Other members "grew up with the traditional Mass," often called the Tridentine Mass.

Father Paul Staes, ordained in 1961, also grew up with the traditional Mass but sees two main problems with its use in Singapore today.

People can learn to recite the prayers, but "you don't know what you are saying, because you don't know Latin," said the priest, who spent six years studying the language. "It's like having a Mass in sign language where no one is deaf."

A Message to the Young People

2009-07-22T14:44:00.002+08:00

“It is the youth of today who will face the challenges of tomorrow in our Church and in our world. I invite you, the young people of our diocese, to believe in your power to choose your own path in life. Be generous with the Lord. As you discover your talents, be not concerned only about how they may benefit you, but how you can use them for the good of others. Christ has important work for you to do.

Know that you are not alone in your journey. There are those whom in your heart you know to be good. Seek their wisdom. Remember the Lord’s constant presence, and develop a way of prayer that will help you in your daily living. By offering the gift of yourself, make a positive difference in our Church and in our world.”

(Bishop Joseph L. Imesch, from Building a Vocation-rich Catholic Community, October 15, 1995.)

“Be generous in giving your life to the Lord. Do not be afraid! You have nothing to fear, because God is the Lord of history and of the universe. Let grow in you the desire for great and noble projects. Nourish a sense of solidarity: these are the sign of the divine action in your hearts. Place at the use of your communities the talents which Providence has lavished on you. The more ready you are to give yourselves to God and to others, the more you will discover the authentic meaning of life. God expects much of you!”

(Pope John Paul II, from the Message for the 23rd World Day of Prayer for vocations, April 28, 1996)

My dear friends, follow the example of Paul and be witnesses to the Risen Christ! Make Christ known, among your own age group and beyond, to those who are in search of “the great hope” that would give meaning to their lives. If Jesus has become your hope, communicate this to others with your joy and your spiritual, apostolic and social engagement. Let Christ dwell within you, and having placed all your faith and trust in him, spread this hope around you. Make choices that demonstrate your faith. Show that you understand the risks of idolizing money, material goods, career and success, and do not allow yourselves to be attracted by these false illusions. Do not yield to the rationale of selfish interests. Cultivate love of neighbour and try to put yourselves and your human talents and professional abilities at the service of the common good and of truth, always prepared to “make your defence to anyone who demands from you an accounting for the hope that is in you” (1 Pet 3:15). True Christians are never sad, even if they have to face trials of various kinds, because the presence of Jesus is the secret of their joy and peace....read more

(Pope Benedict XVI, from the Message for the 24th World Youth Day in Sydney, 2008)

The Sky Angel Cowboy

2009-07-19T19:05:00.004+08:00

A little reminder for us to always remember.

Breaking News

2009-07-18T02:53:00.002+08:00

Already one year since Australia hosted the biggest event the country has seen – World Youth Day 08.

Hundreds of thousands of pilgrims packed the streets of Sydney for one of the most exciting, enthusiastic and spiritual events of their lifetime.

To remember and reflect on those days there will be a First Year Youth Day Anniversary Mass at Sydney’s St Mary’s Cathedral, celebrated by Archbishop Cardinal George Pell.

It will be on Monday 20 July at 6.30pm AEST and streamed LIVE on the Sydney Archdiocese web site www.sydneycatholic.org

Our special soloist will be 15 year old schoolboy Mark Vincent who is already attracting wonderful reviews both in Australia and overseas.

Join us online as we reflect and give thanks for this time last year.

www.sydneycatholic.org
6.30pm AEST

An Open Letter to a Muslim Journalist “Spy”

2009-07-17T01:37:00.002+08:00

Saudara,

I just read that recently you and a friend visited one of the churches that I belong to. I was surprised that you had to do it in disguise. You should have told the Catholic community there that you were coming and we would have given you a grand welcome.

Such was the experience of the MP for Shah Alam, Khalid Abdul Samad from Pas, who was even given a standing ovation when he visited and had a dialogue with the parishioners of the Church of the Divine Mercy in Shah Alam last year.

Some time back I was attending a Mass (Catholic worship) in a Catholic church in Petaling Jaya and was very moved by the presence of a group of Muslim students together with their Muslim professor who had taken them there as part of their “exposure programme”. None of them were converted.

You see we are not an underground church nor do we function in a clandestine manner. Our hearts are on the holy and not on the hideous. We even pray for Najib the PM, though I feel we do not pray enough for the Opposition. We also pray for people like you who do more harm than good to the name of your religion of peace, tolerance and compassion.

Further, what takes place in Catholic churches is highlighted in our in-house newspaper which was quite unknown to the whole population and whose readers formed an insignificant number – until the Government decided to prevent it from using the word “Allah”. Alas, the Herald should thank the Government for making it so well-known today.

Religious Misfits

It is a pity that you have gone through so much trouble to “investigate” under guise what is going on in Catholic Churches or that “Muslim teenagers were being converted to Christianity in Kuala Lumpur 's churches every Sunday”. You should have gone directly to the Special Branch, which sends it officers to visit our churches occasionally. Surely they will be able to tell you that you would be only wasting your time!

As for the information that Muslims are being driven in droves into Catholicism (which you have concluded to be “false” in your article) it has been a fallacious and stale rumour for quite some time, spread by those who have an obsession and paranoia or by the increasing number of lower echelon zealots or “Little Mullah Napoleons” running riot with their brand of religion.

In Feb. 2006, the Mufti of Perak, Haji Harussani Haji Zakaria, claimed that 250,000 Muslims (of which 100,000 were Malays) had apostatized themselves, while 100,000 more had submitted applications to do so. Of course he was unable to substantiate his claim because it was false.

In Nov. 2006, about 500 Muslims protested in front of the Catholic Church of Our Lady of Lourdes in Ipoh following a SMS wherein the same Mufti had disclosed that about 600 Muslim students of the Ungku Omar Polytechnic were to be baptized by national mariner Azhar Mansor!

The church was not converting Muslims but instead was holding the First Holy Communion Mass (one of the rites of initiation to the faith) for 98 Catholic children, many of whom were traumatised by the sight of a threatening mob. Imagine the very unfortunate impression the young Catholics would have got of Islam and of Muslims.

The mufti who had proven to be more of a misfit, was not man enough to own up. He blamed it on an SMS sent out by a woman! Why no action was taken against the mufti, and why the authorities remained mute (on both occasions) over his “mischief” remains but a mystery. You must have been motivated by the mufti.

If indeed the Catholic Church has the conversion of Muslims as its hidden agenda, it would surely have started converting hundreds or even thousands of impressionable young Muslims through its Catholic Mission schools which have existed for as long as 100 years, But no such thing has ever happened.

The Muslim classmates and friends that I had in St Michael’s Ipoh are still good and respected Muslims today, and such was their appreciation and respect for the La Salle Brothers that they made sure that their children in turn would attend a La Salle school or a Convent!

Sacrilegious

Sadly, your disrespect knew no bounds. You chose to abandon all human and religious decency with impunity as a journalist and a Muslim. Under pretense of being a Catholic you participated in the church service and even partook of the Holy Communion (a white and sacred wafer) strictly meant only for Catholics.

You consumed the white wafer which Catholics hold as very sacred and treat with utmost reverence, and both of you spat out the remnants, photographed it and published the picture in an article entitled "Tinjaun Al Islam Dalam Gereja:Mencari Kesahihan Remaja Murtad" which was published in the May 2009 issue of the Al Islam magazine.

I shudder to think of what could happen if the reverse took place -- if for instance two reporters from the Herald were to enter a mosque disguised as Muslims, partake of the rituals and desecrate something which the congregation considers very sacred.

I can imagine Khairy Jamaluddin leading a group of Umno Youth thugs and burning the effigy of the Catholic Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur and even threatening to set fire to a few churches, and Zulkifli Nordin rousing up a mob and invading the Herald’s office and demanding that it be shut down for good; or certain Muslim NGOs insisting that the two journalists be jailed under the ISA!

It makes me wonder how does a “creature” like you exist in this country? Are you the product of the educational, social or even religious system or process created by Bolehland’s leaders (also read as “Umno”) over the past 30 years?

How is it possible that you could blatantly trespass into a place of worship, violate its sanctity, insult its adherents, even publish your transgression and completely ignore the implications and consequences (will there be any)? What gives you such audacity?

It all points to the reality of you being a cog in Umno’s machine – a political party that has politicised religion for its survival by creating unfounded insecurities amongst Muslims and a distrust of other religions. Meanwhile it dominates, dictates, decides and even defines what non-Muslims can and cannot discuss, deliberate on, and display in print.

Najib’s 1Malaysia is really Malaysia in one big mess!

As I join my Catholic brothers and sisters in forgiving you (a Catholic duty we are reminded of!), I also pray that you will feel the full weight of God’s wrath upon you.

I feel sad for the many good Muslims in this country who have a respect for peoples of other faiths, for not only have you insulted Catholics but you have insulted them too. Islam would do well without religious misfits like you!

Martin Jalleh
(15 July 2009)

Knock, knock, knocking on heaven's door

2009-07-16T12:58:00.004+08:00

I'm sure you guys are well aware of what is happening in the case of our Catholic Paper, Herald. Let's continue to be reminded to pray and fast in vigilance for justice.

Here Father Simon Yong is imploring us to support:

Dear Parishioners

I am sorry this is coming out late. The last couple of days have been taken up by Fr OC's medical condition and over the weekend, we were busy with the Family Day celebration etc. Despite our "busyness", there is at the back of my mind an important issue which I am sure is very close to the heart of Fr OC. I am happy to report that he is on the mend and for that we thank God. I must take this opportunity to thank you all for your love and support at our hour of need when you came to pray that the operation for Fr OC would be successful. The crowd that showed up on Wednesday (8th July) was bigger than our usual Sunday 6:45am crowd. When I first saw Fr OC, I whispered into his ear to tell that that "it is not true that a prophet is not accepted in his own country". [He was sedated but he could hear what I had said. I asked him after he regained his consciousness if he had heard me, the answer was affirmative] .

With Fr OC on the mend, let me now put before you the matter which is important to us all.

Herald is the only weekly voice of the Church in Peninsular Malaysia and is in danger of being silence. According to Fr Lawrence Andrew, on Friday 17th July, the High Court will hear the application of 8 Majlis Islam and others to be co-respondents. If they come in, then the case will be disrupted, similar to the way of the "dead body" snatching sandiwara. What we need is "prayer and fasting" to reject their application to be co-respondents.

We are at a historical moment where the rhetoric of a Malaysia that is multi-religious must not remain mere words but must in reality be seen to be so. Therefore, I am calling again on heaven to help us. God can do immeasurably more than we can and our trust is in God our Lord.

This Friday 17th, Mass will begin as usual at 6:15am. After Mass, we will keep vigil before the Lord in the Blessed Sacrament. This time we will use Arrupe Chapel and this vigil will continue until before the evening Mass at 5:45pm.
And because fasting is asked for, there will not be our usual refreshment provided. Instead, water and some biscuits for those who cannot fast, will be provided. The tenor of the day will be prayer and fasting.

Counting on your support.
God bless
Padre

MIssion 101 - They are back and ready to rock the house!

2009-07-14T01:39:00.004+08:00

So you guys have been following their journey throughout the past week and I'm sure you'd be anxious to hear what they have to say. And since this is the first time or rather in a very long time mission trip, it would be a great exposure as they come together in fellowship to share testimonies and exchanges of laughter!

We're heading over to St. Francis Xavier's Church along Jalan Gasing, PJ this Friday (17th July 2009). The "Missionary Experience" will be held at the Gonzaga Youth Ministry (GYM) at 8.00pm (to end approximately at 10.. It's going to be fun because Revolutionary Youth Ministry (RYM) & Junior Youth Ministry from SIC and Lifeteen SFX will also be there to come listen! It's almost like a district gathering but not really. Great time to mix and mingle around with our brothers and sisters in Christ!

Just give your CG Leaders a twinkle if you're interested to go!

*p/s: there is no central gathering or bible study this friday.

Al Islam masuk gereja cari gadis bertudung murtad

2009-07-13T16:56:00.008+08:00

"For anyone who eats and drinks without recognising the body of the Lord eats and drinks judgement on himself" - 1 Corinthian 11: 29

I came upon an article which infuriated me tremendously. I don't understand why and how people would go to such measures. Where is that respect for each others' religion? You don't see people of other religion "kepoh" in mosque. Sometimes I blame our education system for not teaching us how to think rationally. Please continue to pray for our country and for our Prime Minister.

Here's the article that was published in May 2009.You can make a complaint here.

For further follow-ups, this blog is dedicated to this issue.

Mission 101 - Day 6

2009-07-06T02:41:00.005+08:00

Back to back updates!

As usual, opened with a morning prayer which was good. They had a "Desert Day" (which is something like a self reflection/personal time individually) at Sapi Island. They did some snorkeling which created a huge appetite for lunch and then headed back to town to do a simple "prayer-walk". Attended an evening Mass at Sacred Heart Cathedral. It felt refreshing (not sure why, got to ask Anne ;p), followed by dinner with some KK Lifeliners (our sisters!)

Mission 101 - Day 5

2009-07-06T02:15:00.004+08:00

Sorry guys, the update is slightly lagging. Must be the "time-zone" in Sabah. The pace there is way slower than KL. :p

They had a debriefing guided by Sr. Imelda which was awesome! They shared about how God spoke to each one of them in their experience throughout the mission trip. They gave their individual feedback on areas to improve in the program in future. They left Tuaran for Martin's parents' house to stay, wash clothes and rest. Evening came, they met up with the KK Lifeline crowd where Alex shared about Saints while Crisabel, Jennifer and Stacie gave testimonies. The session was Spirit filled which called for supper after that :p

Yuli shares, "I believe miracles will always happens and even can beyond our imaginantions."

2009-07-05T01:14:00.006+08:00

Just Yuli being her smily self

I would like to share about one of my experience with Jesus.

I remembered when last semesters, all my hozmates which also my best fren from the first time since I was in Malaysia left me to further study. To be honest, at the first place there's feeling of released because I just feel too bonded while I was with them.

At first week they left me, I spend my holiday with doing internship and therefore feeling of being alone is disappear. However, the first thing start to worries me when the sem start after my break finished. Then, everday I keep worries about everything as now I doing everything alone, things like: lunch, dinner, frens to study, to share, etc. I feel unsecured, uncertain, sadness, all d worries keeps annoyed me.

Then, one day I went to leader's outreach. In one sections, we have to take 1 paper filling with bible's verse. I get verse," Jesus is the same from the past, now and future."
I am started to think and believe that God give me this situations doesn't mean He leaves me but He sure have others purpose.

Yuli at the Potter and Clay retreat in Port Dickson

From that so on, I learned about how blessfull to have people surrounding me in every minutes. So, I changed my prayer to say thankfull everyday instead of asking giving me frens immediately. I realised that is just so ego and foolish to do that.Thus, I changed my pray to God said that I trusted Him and have faith in Him that he will give the best for me.
Now, I asking God for always give me guidance and lightening my way to suits in His way.

From that, I slowly feel peace in day to day. Now, I believe we had to put our faith in God, because when we worry too much it's just wasting time and energy. So, everything that seems misserable in our life better to only pray, hope and do our best and be humble in our prayer. As it is written in Jer 29:11. I believe miracles will always happens and even can beyond our imaginantions.

MIssion 101 - Day 4

2009-07-04T01:24:00.001+08:00

Started the morning with a prayer in the open (outside the chapel) with the youths. Proceeded a gotong-royong at the chapel. Had some fun rolling under the sun whilst singing. Some took time to do a one-on-one (personal ministering) as well. Some even prayed spontaneously and felt God's presence in the chapel.

They travelled back to Tuaran and by evening, had a pot bless. They shared their experiences with the youths as well as church elders. Followed by fellowship of which one of the team members taught all of them to dance ROCK! Awesome fun! At night, some of the team members stayed up late to chat and ended up having a very moving sharing. God's Holy Spirit is truly present. Praise God!

Mission 101 - Day 3

2009-07-02T13:51:00.001+08:00

Yesterday, they had fellowship at Kampung Logub in the morning. Some went hiking in the woods with some of the youths who accompanied them the whole trip. The rest of them stayed back with the host family and shared a bit about pro-life.

In the afternoon, they travelled to Kampung Tambulaong and met up with teens and youth alike. They hung out with them fishing and played ball. Evening came and they had a pot bless with host families and youths. Again, they had testimonies but from the local youths instead. Nevertheless, we had Jennifer shared about Lifeline. Since Stacie had graced us with her awesome "Forgiveness" talk not too long ago, she also shared it with them. Great day.

bella

2009-07-01T23:50:00.000+08:00

Oh guys, here's a hint of what we're going to do this Friday. =D

Mission 101 - Day 2

2009-07-01T17:40:00.001+08:00

Cock-a-doodle-doo!! Morning call is at 5.00am.

Today they took an hour to hike to the waterfalls followed by lunch thereafter. Had a mini fellowship with the teens who tagged along whilst some swam in the cool waters. After lunch, our dear missionaries cleared weeds from a pumpkin patch or slope which was pretty steep.

After weeding, it's time to take another 1-hour hike to the next village. Super exhaustion! Covered in dirt and mud only calls for a chilly shower from a pipe outdoors with no doors! Yikes! Famished, they delve into another pot bless. Tummies full and satisfied, Ee Lynn gave a powerful sharing in BM!! *gasps* Amazing! Soon after, Lei Sunn shared her testimony as well. And that was it for the day..

Mission updates!

2009-06-30T15:24:00.001+08:00

Yesterday at 9.30am our missionaries boarded the plane to Sabah and have arrived safely. One of the flights was delayed but they made it to Tuaran St John's parish in the afternoon. They proceeded to Kiulu area and are currently residing in an area called Malangan. They were greeted by a pot bless prepared by the locals to welcome them at the St Martin's parish. In return, they sang songs and gave testimonies. There was also a Q&A session about East Malaysians who left their faith upon hoping over to Kuala Lumpur.

...more updates coming soon so stay tuned!

MISSION TRIP!!

2009-06-30T00:01:00.001+08:00

We are going on MISSIONS! Yes, you read it correctly. There are 8 Lifeliners from St. Francis Xavier’s Church and St Thomas More Church, who will be going to Sabah for missions from 29th June till 5th July. We also have a fellow missionary from France who will be joining us.

Who are we?

Alex Chan
Anne Yong
Jennifer Lau
Martin Koh
Lei Sunn, Cheong
Stacie Ng
Crisabel Tiu
Ee Lynn, Yap
Buu-Vi

Why do we go on missions?
Matthew 28:19-20 – Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you….
We are all commissioned to preach to Good News of Christ, and going on missions is just 1 way of doing what God is commanding us J (note: we also have to carry this out in our daily lives too) There is a time and season for missions, and now is the time!

1 Timothy 2:3-4 – This is good and pleasing to God our saviour, who wills everyone to be saved and to come to knowledge of the truth. “This is the Father’s will”
As we share the knowledge of the truth, and to help deepen their knowledge by our testimony, our faith in turn will increase.

What are we doing there?
We’ll be sharing our personal testimonies on how God is real in our lives, giving the people we meet the encouragement to continue to follow Christ and live a lifestyle that is pleasing to HIM through talks & sharings.
We want to also connect with the youths from Sabah who are coming to KL to work or to study, so that they know that there is a Catholic community in KL whom they can connect with.

Where are we going?
We will be meeting with a group of youths from St. John’s Tuaran parish on Monday, and will be journeying with them into Kiulu area for the next 4 days to live with the local folks and to share with them. On Friday, we’ll be travelling back to Kota Kinabalu and will be meeting with the KK Lifeliners and sharing there.

How can you be involved?
PRAY FOR US. Yes.. please pray for us. Going into the mission field, does not merely involve the people who are travelling there, but those who are from the church. Your prayers are important to us. Please pray for our safety, unity, openness to receive and to give of ourselves to the communities whom we will be meeting.
Your prayers are important to us!

THANK YOU all for being part of the BODY of Christ, for your support and prayers.

See you when we get back! God bless!

In Christ Love:
Missionary team

FORGIVENESS : The Lost Son

2009-06-27T02:14:00.001+08:00

Today was a great day. It started off great and ended awesome. The Praise and Worship was great. The songs today were crafted so beautifully with the flow. And I think our souls transcended together in worship. Testimonies (Justin D'Souza and Yuli) were also heartfelt as they share with us how God has touched them in their life.

Before Stacie took her place at the "pulpit", we prayed over her. She looked perplexed so I'm guessing she was well prepared. I was drawn to whatever she wanted to say; so much so I had to take notes of the symbolism she was pointing out. She was so full of vigor and spirit that was just contagious. Most of us went back at learning something new. I know I did. Swesomeness.

Although a handful turned up, nevertheless I think it was a blessing in disguise so we took this opportunity to drive all the way to Murni (SS2). Dinner/supper was awesome! They had a drink called, "I Love You". Super hilarious when he was serving the drinks after that. As usual we chatted til the wee hours. Definitely an awesome night to remember. :D

Great Things Come in Small Packages

2009-06-24T01:47:00.000+08:00

This is a cool rosary-on-the-go. It acts like a key chain so you can pray as you drive evil spirits away. It definitely comes in handy. We recommend it. Plus, it's red signifying martyrdom. Since our St Thomas More's Feast Day has just passed by round the corner, let's commemorate him by buying one and pray! Besides, all the profits will be going to the building fund. If this does not suit your liking, head on over to The Creative Catholic Centre to customize!

Here are some of the other items that are also for sale. For the normal rosaries, you can either affix the crucifix yourself or even request for a sacred relic (level 3) to be made together. Voila! A super duper weapon against the prince of darkness. It comes in many packages and colors.
So get your customized rosary today!

*Note : It makes a very nice gift.

Catholic Church needs Holy Priests: Pope Benedict

2009-06-22T03:01:00.001+08:00

VATICAN CITY (Zenit.org).- The greatest suffering of the Church is the sin of its priests, Benedict XVI said as he inaugurated the Year for Priests.

The Pope presided today at a celebration of vespers on the solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus at the Basilica of St. Peter's, during which he launched a yearlong celebration of the priesthood. The theme for the priestly year is "Faithfulness of Christ, Faithfulness of Priests."

The year, convoked by the Pontiff, coincides with the 150th anniversary of the death of St. John Mary Vianney, known as the Curé d'Ars. Bishop Guy Bagnard of Belley-Ars brought the relics of the French saint to Rome for the inauguration Mass.

The Year for Priests will conclude with an International Convention in Rome, to be held June 9-11, 2010.

The celebration began with the Holy Father venerating in silence the relics of St. John Mary Vianney.

"The Church needs holy priests," the Pope said in his homily. "[It needs] ministers to help the faithful experience the merciful love of the Lord and to be convinced witnesses."

For this, he invited the faithful to pray "that the Lord inflame the heart of each priest" with the love of Jesus.

"How can one forget that nothing makes the Church -- the Body of Christ -- suffer more than the sins of its pastors, above all those that are 'wolves in sheep's clothing,' whether because they lead [the faithful] away with their private doctrine, or because they bind [the faithful] down with the ties of sin and death," he asked.

"The call to conversion and to take recourse to Divine Mercy also applies to us, dear priests," Benedict XVI said to the numerous priests and bishops present. "We should also appeal, humbly and incessantly, to the heart of Jesus so that he preserves us from the terrible risk of damaging those whom we should save."

For this, the Pope affirmed, "Our mission is indispensible for the Church and for the world, which demands complete fidelity to Christ and an incessant union with him; that is to say, it demands that we constantly seek the holiness of St. John Mary Vianney."

*for those of you who cannot afford The Herald, you can read all the articles right here too. I didn't know His Grace, Archbishop Tan Sri Murphy Pakiam launched the website on 26th May 2009! Hurrah!! So when is the Church of St Thomas More going online?

Angel Security

2009-06-17T10:06:00.000+08:00

Fancy that huh?

Pixies are out!

2009-06-12T02:51:00.000+08:00

Heya peeps!

As promised, here are the pictures for our YOU GOT TALENT 2009! WOot!!

YOU GOT TALENT 2009! - Cultural Night Album

The Explosion of Love

2009-06-05T05:32:00.000+08:00

I'm sure all of you know, there's a 8-week(i think so) program at SFX that runs the Christopher West videos that talk about the Theology of the Body. It's an incredible program to attend but I understand time constraints and exams so Stacie has kindly provided the notes for the first session so do thank her when you see her!

Session 1 : An Education in being human
The Foundation of LIFE and Culture
"Theology of the body" [TOB] is the working title John Paul 2 gave to 129 talks he delivered during his lifetime. It concerns the call of the male and the female to become "one flesh". If it is true, as some say, that the TOB is all about sex, then, what is sex? To ask questions about the meaning of sex (the meaning of our creation as male and female) is to ask questions about the very meaning of human existence. The TOB takes us on an exhilarating Trinitarian journey that leads us ever-upward from the body to

1. the union of man and woman to
2. the union of Christ and the Church and from there into
3. the eternal union of Father, Son and Holy Spirit or what chris west calls (the eXpLoSioN of love)

John Paul 2 uses the spousal union as a "lens through which to view the whole of existence, the whole of reality and of God's plan for humanity (you and I).

1a. What we learn essential...for the understanding of man in general: for the... self understanding of his being in the world (aka existence) [TOB 102:5]
1b. Therefore, this Theology of the Body is the basis of the most appropriate method of man's... self education. (to educate ourselves about the meaning of existence) [TOB 59:3]

What makes the Human Body "Theological"?
In Christian catechesis, people are used to an emphasis on the spiritual realm. Yet many people are unfamiliar with the emphasis on the body. TOB is a clarion call for Christians not to be more "spiritual" but to be more incarnational; to put flesh on the spiritual life. We are NOT spirits trapped in a body. We are body-persons; incarnate spirits.

Our bodies are a kind of sacrament. It has made what is invisible, visible. We cannot see God. As pure spirit, God is totally beyond our vision. Yet Christians believe that the invisible God has made himself visible. How?
God's mystery revealed in human flesh. For in Christ, "the whole fullness of deity dwells bodily" (Colossians 2:9)

Take home thought.
The body, in fact, and only the body, is capable of making visible what is invisible: the spiritual and the divine. God created the human body to be a sign of the mystery hidden within the Trinity from all eternity.

*there's actually a lot more notes but I have not included them here if not it'll be wayyyy too long so if you're really interested, please email stmlifeline@gmail.com for the entire notes for Session 1 or just poke Stacie for it. =D

Transformation

2009-06-04T03:29:00.000+08:00

There are plenty photos to compile so in the meantime, here's something light to digest.

YOU GOT TALENT 2009!

2009-06-01T04:35:00.000+08:00

Twas definitely a night to remember. The ambiance, the food, the acts, the judges, the prizes, the music contributed to the overall night event. Everybody made an extra effort that night, and I am gracious and humbled at the passion and dedication put into the event. Deepest gratitude to all the committee members for the sweat and tears and sleepless. Rest assured your reward is in heaven. :p

And of course we would always like to hear any feedback that would help us to coordinate events to serve you better. So drop us a mail anytime at stmlifeline@gmail.com or comment here as you wish.

Those who have taken photographs and video that night, please if possible burn me a copy that Lifeline will have a copy to keep and perhaps compile into a DVD so that all may have access ya? In any case, just contact Suzanne!

Here's a picture to remember always,

It's finally here!!

2009-05-29T11:48:00.002+08:00

AMEN! WoOT! "YOU GOT TALENT 2009" has finally reached the port. It will take over the night away delving us deeper into a realm of hopes and dreams of becoming the winner of "STM Lifeline's First Talent Show"! So come one, come all, all ye who have feet!! :p

I'm actually hyped with excitement! Things seem to be going according to plan, praise be to God! Definitely a great way to start the day with Mass. Everything is in Your hands, Jesus. =D

So peeps, gather round at the STM Community Centre (map) at 7.30pm. Dinner will be served so don't worry about those rumblings, we'll "kao tim" that for you. :D

All you have to do is bring a friend and party the night away, STM Lifeline style!!

Call Suzanne @ 013-224 5523 if you have any questions, ya?

See ya there!

May Almighty Allah bless you and your loved ones,....

2009-05-25T12:03:00.000+08:00

A Catholic church in Malaysia which prays to Allah has prompted a court case over who can use the word.

Muslim leaders say Islam should be the only faith to use it, saying its use in other faiths could lead to confusion and conversions.

A Man For All Seasons

2009-05-24T21:26:00.000+08:00

As you may already know, the STM Family Life Ministry is organizing a movie screening of our patron saint, St Thomas More featuring his life as the ultimate man of conscience and remaining true to his principles and Roman Catholic faith under all circumstances and at all times. He is also deeply loved by the common people and by his family.

In support of the Church's effort to raise funds for our permanent place of worship we Lifeliners are attending the screening on the 19th of June 2009, Friday at TGV Sunway Pyramid as our movie night out! Woo hoo! We'll be taking the entire row! It's only RM30 which also includes a free regular popcorn and drink! Let's wear our Lifeline T-Shirts!

If you are not able to make it that night, there are other dates to consider as well:
18th June, Thursday - 8.30pm
20th June, Saturday - 10.00am
Tickets are priced at RM25 (first 3 rows), RM30 (mid range) and RM35 (couple seats).

If you're not convinced, watch the trailer. :D

"More is a man of an angel's wit and singular learning. I know not his fellow. For where is the man of that gentleness, lowliness and affability? And, as time requireth, a man of marvelous mirth and pastimes, and sometime of as sad gravity. A man for all seasons." Robert Whittinton, 1520.

You Got Talent!

2009-05-22T05:16:00.001+08:00

This year we're twisting things up a bit. Come 29th May 2009 (Friday) you guys are in for a pleasant surprise! *giggles* So basically, the concept is inspired by Britain's Got Talent (BGT) thus we also have 3 judges to speculate and comment! And of course a rewarding prize awaits the winner!! It's gonna be fun! So let yourselves loose for the night! Be creative! GET WILD!! The only criteria for the act is that it has to be cultural based. So simple!

Worry not about the stomach growls because food is provided free of charge! All you gotta do is wear something awesome (if you don't have any cultural clothes, it's fine too) and bring a new friend! Hop in on the fun as we watch in anticipation of the FIRST Lifeline "Idol"!!

Click the image to download the registration form

Shalom

2009-05-20T11:49:00.000+08:00

Shalom, it is nice to know more and more youth coming for daily Mass at 6.15am. It is indeed a way for us to be trained as new generation of Catholic leaders (the mission of lifeline) with the guidance from Him.

What a blessing if we start our new day with His blessing we get from attending Masses. So, come and join, okay?

Besides, my humble request for each of us to pray for more vocation towards the priesthood and religious life. As mentioned below, College General is going to organise this vocation stay in experience for those who wish to discern their calling. I do believe that the moment that we doubt "have God called me?" is the moment that God has planted the seed in us! Yet, He gives us the precious gift, ie freedom, to choose! So, why not try to discern when we are still young.....!!! I am sure there are many people are ready to help you to discern! Above all, there are even more people continuously pray for YOU to take a bold step in answering God's call!

It is, indeed, the happiest moment of our life if we get to know THE MEANING OF OUR EXISTENCE!!! I share with you this convincingly as I have gone through it.

So, if anyone (YOU or your friend) wish to know further or need someone to guide for discernment, feel free to come to me (if you think i can help) or Fr Simon Labrooy who was a passionate vocation director of Archdiocese KL.

Until then, please continue pray for more future church leaders, priests and religious.

May God bless you,
Anthony

Hear ye, hear ye!

2009-05-20T11:48:00.000+08:00

Heya peeps! We are finally here in the blogs! I'm excited as to what new things STM Lifeline can achieve. I am proud to say God is just simply awesome! Alleluia!

Ahem, since we are not able to have our own website at the moment, we shall blog instead for any upcoming delicious stories here. So if anyone feels like sharing, just let me know, and I'll post it right up! Testimonies are most gladly welcomed here. Share any Catholic goodies that you have here! After all, it's by sharing that makes our faith grow, and grow more in love with Jesus. Let's fall in love again with JESUS! AMEN!

I'm just excited about having a blog for STM Lifeline. So hear ye, hear ye! All ye who have ears, listen!