Our Mission Statements

To encourage young people to build an intimate Relationship with God with Him as our Guiding Companion.

To Acknowledge the gifts that God has given to us and to Empower us to use them through this Journey of faith.

Monday, December 29, 2008

BLYM Weekly Updates

Hey people,

For this week, I would like to draw your attention to the Catholic News distributed yesterday regarding "The Dignity of a Person". This document highlights a lot of issues regarding stem cell research, gene therapy, cloning... and why it's all so WRONG! Basically summed up, this document highlights the dangers of Man trying to take the place of God. If you are interested to know more, you can refer to this website: http://www.catholic.org.sg/cn/wordpress/?p=3662. I can imagine the horror of people knowing that there's another me!

1) Cell group - Holidays until January!

2) Youth Alpha - Session is on again this week! If interested, you can still contact Celine at 90906469.

3) Our own noticeboard - We have our own Youth Noticeboard at the entrance of the church. You can check out youth happenings in our parish and around the diocese from over there!

4) Youth Mass - Last call! After half a year trial of Youth Mass, we are pausing to reflect. We need your feedback through this online survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=QdQFP1uC0d3LnjMkF9wbcA_3d_3d. It will take not more then 5 minutes of your time:)

5) Music Ministry - We are forming a Music Ministry! Can you play instruments (Guitar, piano, organ... etc)? Can you sing? We are having an audition in the basement next Sunday 11 Jan @ 11.45am. If interested to play or make music for God, come join us! Or you can contact Michael @ 94765852.

6) His Vineyard - BSC's Young Adults group is having a weekend retreat from 9th to 11th Jan. If interested, please contact Edmund @ 96498336.

7) School Of Witness - CAYC is holding a 6 week program for tertiary students (18yrs to 25yrs) on holidays in Jan. Interested participants can refer to attached brochure for more details.

8) Up Close and Personal - Who are the Daughters of St Paul? Inviting interested young women (below 30 yrs) discerning for vocation to this encounter on 10 January. Contact Sr Jocelyn at 65608003.

Peace,
Joachim

Thursday, December 25, 2008

Step 4 - The End

You’re almost ready! Before you dive in, let me share several quick tips that may help and enhance your writing.

Pray

This is obvious but we can get so consumed in the task of writing and figuring out our testimony that we forget to do what is essential! Invite others to pray

Don’t do this alone.

Recruit 2 people who will pray for you before and during; try to include at least one adult on this prayer team.

Do a heart check

Are you ready to publicly represent Christ? Be sure your heart is right with God and others. Anyone you need to talk to? Apologize to?

Know your audience

Are you speaking to mostly Christians, non-Christians, or a mix? Be sure to use language that your listeners will understand. Avoid church lingo like “saved,” “re-dedicate,” “invite Jesus in your heart.” What do those words really mean, especially to a non-Christian?

Write it out point form

Writing out in point form will enable you to think through properly before you write out your story. Does this part fits here or will it be better if I put it at the end?

Writing out MY STORY

Finally! Your end product. Write out YOUR STORY with the points that you had noted down previously. Check for spelling, grammar and vocab errors before sending it to us!

Ignore doubts

Expect your mind to be filled with lots of doubts and messages like, “Who do you think you are to share your story? You're such a hypocrite. God can't use you.” This is a strategy of Satan. Fortunately, as a Christian, you don't have to be perfect to share your story (hey, I'm not!). But you do need to know that God is with you and is cheering you on. And so are the people who are praying for you!

Keep your focus on God

Remember, it's God who has given you a story to tell. Be excited about your story, but be sure to give God the credit He deserves.Have fun!

You are loved by God and your friends no matter how you do, so relax and enjoy the privilege of telling others about the incredible relationship you have (and they can have) with Jesus.

The end!

The format for a growth story might look like this . . .

ISSUE + LESSON + RESPONSE = my growth story

What ISSUE or QUESTION have you been struggling with? What’s been going on in your life that God is using to challenge or stretch you? In what ways have you been stumbling in your walk with Christ?What LESSON did you learn from your issue/question? What insight from the Bible did God give you, or what friend encouraged you? What have you learned or in what way have you grown since the issue/question first presented itself? What RESPONSE is God calling for? Or what RESPONSE do you need from your readers? If there was a definite lesson God taught you, how does He want you to live now? If there hasn’t been an answer yet, how do you want others to pray for you? Could your response challenge others to grow? IMPORTANT! When you actually begin to write out either type of testimony, put the bulk of your material in the middle section (“how” or “lesson”). Why? Many people focus too much on what life was like before Christ or on the issue they’re struggling with, and it can overwhelm the audience. The reader needs to se HOW you came to know Christ and/or what LESSON God taught you during this time. Everyone can relate to life outside of Christ, but people need to get a clear picture of the kind of hope Christ offers.

Tuesday, December 23, 2008

4th Advent Cell

4th Advent Cell: The last night of cell for the year, certainly befitting of a year end cell. A little more people then usual - a little more sharing then usual. What comes to your mind when we talk about Advent? Last week focuses on the 'yes' of Mary to God to conceive the child, Jesus.

God in the form of a baby. Weak, powerless and small. Do we see children as hope? Some said yes, some said no. Do we then see Jesus, in the form of a baby as hope for the world? Why did He come as a baby and not as a man immediately? One shared that maybe this enabled God to look at the world through our eyes, our human failings.

How many times did we say yes to God? How many times did we not dare to say yes? A child, shrouded in mystery. No one knows what this child will bring: Peace? War? Love? No matter what, Mary still said yes, expecting nothing, not knowing anything.

Does our expectations sometimes fall beyond what we hope for? One shared yes, many times. So it's best not to aim too high least you fall down too hard. Is it true? Do we not aim high just because we are afraid that we will fall down too hard? I think the impt thing is how we pick ourselves up after we fall down.

God, in a weak baby, said yes by Mary = The yes of Man to once again recieve God into their lives.

Are you ready to recieve God once again into your life by saying yes?

Have a blessed and joyful Christmas.

BLYM Weekly Updates

Hey people!

There was a great turnout for August Rush movie screening on Satuday and we thank those who had attended.. Time flies fast. In just a few more days, we will be celebrating Christmas and a brand new 2009! People are scurrying here and there to get their hands on some last minute Christmas shopping and decorations. In the process of preparing for holidays, that's not forget about the main cause for celebration and that's JESUS! Yup and so from all of us here at Bridging Light Youth Ministry, we wish you a blessed Christmas and a Happy New Year! Looking forward to seeing you at our events in 2009!

1) Cell group - Holidays until January!

2) Youth Alpha - Session is off for next week! If interested, you can contact Celine at 90906469.

3) Our own noticeboard - We have our own Youth Noticeboard at the entrance of the church. You can check out youth happenings in our parish and around the diocese from over there!

4) Youth Mass - We need your help! After half a year trial of Youth Mass, we are pausing to reflect. We need your feedback through this online survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=QdQFP1uC0d3LnjMkF9wbcA_3d_3d. It will take not more then 5 minutes of your time:)

5) His Vineyard - BSC's Young Adults group is having a weekend retreat from 9th to 11th Jan. If interested, please contact Edmund @ 96498336.

6) School Of Witness - CAYC is holding a 6 week program for tertiary students (18yrs to 25yrs) on holidays in Jan. Interested participants can refer to attached brochure for more details.

7) Up Close and Personal - Who are the Daughters of St Paul? Inviting interested young women (below 30 yrs) discerning for vocation to this encounter on 10 January. Contact Sr Jocelyn at 65608003.

Peace,
Joachim

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

Are you lonely tonight?....3rd advent cell

harlow! Sorry for the super delayed postings.
Here's our short advent cell summary last friday after the commemoration mass for Fr David.


Yes. Loneliness.
What does it mean to you? what is your own experience of loneliness?
Many a times, even when we're surrounded by friends and families,
we could still feel a certain kind of "loneliness" or emptiness.
Something seemed to be missing.
No matter how hard we try to fill in the emptiness
it'll still eventually come back to us.


Just like how John the Baptist had proclaimed that
he was unable to "satisfy" the hungry hearts of the people
It is Jesus who will give us the ultimate fulfillment and baptise us with the Holy Spirit
BUT, that is provided we allow Him to do that.
To seriously invite God into our lives and
to be able to hear His voice that cries out in the wilderness.

Besides administering to ourselves,
let us also be reminded to bring light of Christ and of hope
to people around us.
Really, to make straight the way of the Lord is not easy
and it comes in many forms and means.
But when we do it, we could curb that "loneliness" that reside
in our hearts.

I had a good confession on Monday.
Short and sweet but right to the core.
And it took great courage and many years!!...
I felt God's immense love and mercy when the priest said,
"I absolved you from your sins!"

I have attempted to make a difference
So can you. =)
lol....so propaganda...

Monday, December 15, 2008

Hey people,

As we approach the last week of Advent, it's time for us to do our Confession! Many youths had asked me "Why can't I confess my sins directly to God? Why must I confess to a priest?" Let me try to give you an answer: The priest is the direct representative of God to us on Earth. True, he's a mortal with sins but he's also given the power to absolve us from sins. God is giving us the grace to be forgiven! So why not take this chance? Moving on...

1) Advent cell - Last week of Advent sessions! Join us in this last round of preparation for Advent on 19 December Friday, 8pm in the Lighthouse!

2) An Advent movie screening, August Rush - A drama with fairy tale elements, where an orphaned musical prodigy uses his gift as a clue to finding his birth parents through a musical journey. Bring a friend and a packet chips along! Tissue boxes are provided. 20 December, Saturday, 8.15pm in the Lighthouse!

3) Youth Alpha - It's onto the 3rd session this week. Still interested? Celine is the person to contact @ 90906469.

4) Youth Mass - We need your help! After half a year trial of Youth Mass, we are pausing to reflect. We need your feedback through this online survey: http://www.surveymonkey.com/s.aspx?sm=QdQFP1uC0d3LnjMkF9wbcA_3d_3d. It will take not more then 5 minutes of your time:)

5) His Vineyard - BSC's Young Adults group is having a weekend retreat from 9th to 11th Jan. Check out the brochure attached for more details!

6) School Of Witness - CAYC is holding a 6 week program for tertiary students (18yrs to 25yrs) on holidays in Jan. Interested participants can refer to attached brochure for more details!

7) Up Close and Personal - Who are the Daughters of St Paul? Inviting interested young women (below 30 yrs) discerning for vocation to this encounter on 10 January. Contact Sr Jocelyn at 65608003.

Peace
Joachim

Thursday, December 11, 2008

August Rush

August Rush
A drama with fairy tale elements, where an orphaned musical prodigy uses his gift as a clue to finding his birth parents through a musical journey of hope and waiting. Bring a friend and chips along! Tissue boxes are provided.
When: 20 August 08, Saturday
Where: The Lighthouse, Lvl 4
Time: 8.15pm - 10.15pm.
Joachim@92394826

Sunday, December 7, 2008

BLYM Weekly Updates

Hey guys!

It's a rainy morning as I'm lazing in front of my computer typing this email to you. Rain is such a bliss to Singaporeans that we forget that in many parts of the world that some countries are in drought, especially one neighbour which is close to us: Australia. Some parts have been in drought since 2 or 3 years ago and it has seldom rain. Let us intercede for them as we pray for rain and hope in their country as preparation for Advent, the season of Waiting and Hope.

1) Advent Nights' timing is changed to 9pm this Friday, 13 Dec in the Lighthouse, due to Father David's memorial mass at 8pm. For the last session, Father Michal lead us into discussing free will, God's hope for us and the 'poor' and 'afflicted' in our society or beside us. John 10:10. Micah 6:8.

2) Youth Alpha has just ran its second session. Please continue to pray for these participants. For more details, please contact Celine @ 90906469.

3) The Testimony Project is still on! Check out our blog or add yourself to the our Facebook account at http://www.facebook.com/groups.php?ref=sb#/group.php?gid=14846641385.

4) School of Witness (A youth formation project by CAYC). A six week program helping participants to deepen their relationship with God and discover their call for evangelisation.Check www.cayconline.org or contact Joachim @ 92394826 for registration.

5) Up Close and Personal with Daughters of St Paul. Calling all young women aged below 30 if you are interested to discover your vocation in life. Contact 65608003 or RSVP fspvocation@yahoo.com.

The Sec 1s just completed their retreat last weekend. All thanks to God and the team for making this possible as this is our first parish Sunday School retreat! Hope for more to come next year with other classes!

Peace,
Joachim

Friday, December 5, 2008

2nd Advent Cell @ The Lighthouse

Started with a song, "Father We Come to Worship You".
One of my favourites.
And the five of us gathered in a circle on a colourful rug
Candles lit, books ready and wondering where's everyone else?
Hah...well it's the season of Hope anyway.
Be it two, three or ten people, we'll just do our bit to share,
to listen and to prepare.



Somehow, started off talking about what's God's hope for us?
Fr Michal sums it up with John 10:10
"I came so that you may have life."
Certainly, God wants us to live our life to the fullest.
And this fullness of life and knowing what's the Truth will fulfill that.
Nevertheless, He wants us to receive the gift of salvation.

And then we digressed a bit further and talk about God's will.
Well, we often question if we say that God has given us free will,
then why is it that we still talk about God's plans for us?
To make things less complex, this free will given to us,
if it satisfy certain "criterias" of God's will, then we won't go wrong.

Again, Fr Michal interprets God's will as what prophet Micah has said in Micah 6:8.
- Act justly
- Love tenderly
- Walk humbly with our God.
and this reminded me of the song "Companions on the Journey"!...

AND so...moving on to the Gospel reading...
Prepare the way for the Lord's coming...
How to prepare?
Hmm...we were asked to identify the "poor" and "afflicted"
in our societies. Not necessarily physically, materially, but also spiritually and emotionally.
What about ourselves?
Have we felt "poor" and "afflicted" at times?
Has any form of help been offered to me? Any comforting words from people?
Did we see hope?

As we continue with this Advent journey,
let's think how we can offer a certain hope to people around us
People whom we might not know, people we are "poor" and "afflicted",
and maybe ourselves even, to stretch out our arms to receive some kind of hope from others too.

May we pray and ask the Spirit to increase our faith, strengthen our hope, and find joy in fulfilling God's will and yearning for God's hope in us.


~ Mike.

Sunday, November 30, 2008

What if I don't have anything interesting to share?

Your story doesn’t have to be a wild, sex-filled, drug, gang incredible story. Some people have those stories, but most don’t. Most people come to know God through a process of asking questions, getting answers, watching other Christians, and accepting God’s free gift of forgiveness and love. Nothing extravagant . . . but genuine and real. Maybe you don’t have a story that will make someone cry or stand to their feet to applaud, but if you know God, your story will encourage someone else’s faith journey.

Maybe you grew up in a Christian home and can't remember a time when you didn't believe. Ask your family and have them help you identify the period in time when you realized you wanted something more than church and/or religion, a time when you wanted a real relationship with God.

Maybe even more important than a “when” is a “what”…what is God doing in your life today? Our faith isn't a one-time event. It's an ongoing relationship with the God. So, what are you learning? What are you going through? What's the condition of your heart? What has God taught you through some recent challenges? Keep in mind that great stories aren't always success stories. It's an ongoing process even as you are reading this now!!

Friday, November 28, 2008

1st Advent Cell - reflections.

Harlow everybody!
Just a reminder, our Friday CG in the Youth room has stopped for this year and in place is our Advent Cell led by Fr Michal at Level 3 St Mary's Room. Do come as it's a wonderful preparation for Christmas! =)

Ay, here's what we started off with.
Discussion on "Hope".
What does 'hope' mean to us?
Some said there's active and passive hope.
You either sit there and dream about it
or you do something about it.
Fr M said there's secular and christian hope.
And here in this christian community,
it's the christian hope that we shld hold dearly to.
So what is this Christian Hope?
It surely is the yearning for a fulfillment,
the fulfillment of the fullness of love from God,
the perfect love, the everlasting and eternal love.

Ha...we also discussed a bit about people of other religions,
what is their hope then?
Ultimately, we believe that it's still the same God,
and we have the similar fulfillment that we're all yearning for.

And what about "hopeless" people?
In God's creation, there's nothing hope-less.
We're given the Gift of Life from Him,
to lead our lives fruitfully and meaningfully
and to be people of hope.

How do we remain hopeful?
The gospel reading of this Sunday tell us to
"stay awake!" and be watchful.
For the first time, I actually interpreted it directly
that I can't sleep! Surely, it's not about that. lol...
It's about us not indulging in the secular world and
not falling asleep in the christian world.
We ought to hear out for God's voice and the
opportunities that he has given us.



We're all beautiful seeds of the Sower
Tiny as it seems
Let it grow and flower
Bearing fruits of hope.

Have a blessed weekend!

-posted by michael.

PS:Grab a copy of the Advent reflection booklet in church!

Thursday, November 27, 2008

Why should I share my story?

Why tell your story? Because it will probably be a great experience for you, and others need to hear different examples of how God works. There is mutual blessing when a testimony is shared. In Romans 1:12 the Apostle Paul tells us that it is beneficial for us to be “mutually encouraged by each other's faith.”

How? Everyone receives encouragement when a testimony is shared. You get encouraged when you prepare by spending time thinking, praying, and writing. This process will serve as a reminder of all that God has done in your life. Since it’s so easy to lose sight of that, telling your story will bring it all back and give you a proper perspective of God’s work in your life.

As an added benefit, the listeners will also receive encouragement. Like you, Christian listeners will be reminded of how great God is, and this can cause them to be more receptive to God’s presence in their lives.

Non-Christians get a real, live example of how God makes a difference in one’s life. Many non-Christians dismiss their need for God because they don’t see how God is relevant to their daily life. But, they can’t disagree with your story. No one can…This is your story! When a non-Christian hears about your journey with God, it immediately proves that God is real and alive in your life.

Please understand this…no one can deny your story.

Wednesday, November 26, 2008

The Testimony Project - For adults by the youth

Everyone got a testimony to share! And yes, certainly you!

We are planning to publish a book on youths' faith testimonies for the adults. This book is about youth being a witness of faith to the adults because many the times, adults tend to forget that youths can have a personal relationship with God and they sometimes need to be nourished by a young person's faith too!

How to share? What to share? Why should I share? Nothing to share? My testimony is too simple, who would want to read it?

Many people gave me these questions when I told them about this idea.. So in order to help you guys to prepare your testimony, I have prepared some practical steps on these questions, to be shared over the next few days...

Once your story is told out in written form, you can send it to us at sfa.youthteam@gmail.com for editing. Please include in this document, your contacts: Name, age, telephone number, email address, current status (Working? University? Polytechnic? Secondary school?) and nationality.

We will help to edit some parts of grammar, vocab and spelling in your story but otherwise then that, your story in large content will remain unchanged. These works after sent in, remain the property of SFA Bridging Light Youth Ministry, Singapore, and no money will be issued for your work. Rest assured that those works will still be published under your name:)

So go ahead, look through your every event in your mind's memory for your story and be prepared to share this journey of the Greatest Story Ever Told next to the Bible!

BLYM Weekly Updates

Hello everyone!

Time for me again to do the updates as Pat is rather busy this week. The Ubin trip last Saturday was great fun and a success! Although it rained, the youths still had fun in cycling and falling over one another... Oops. So why not join us for the next one? Watch out soon for another activity coming your way! But in the meantime, here are some nitchy-bitey stuff for you guys..

1) Advent is coming so why not join in this Advent reflection sessions led by Father Michal, starting this week, 8pm in St Mary's Room, lvl 3?

2) Youth Mass is on this Saturday, 6pm! Celebrate the first Advent with style during Mass and fellowship in the Lighthouse, lvl 4 after Mass! Potluck dinner is much appreciated so please bring something along to share!

3) Final call for Youth Alpha participants! This week, an introductory session will be held at Lakepoint Condominium, BBQ by the swimming pool at 6pm. Please call Celine, 90906469 to register by Friday. For ages 15 to 20.

4) What's this testimony project? Look up!

The Sec 1s will be having their retreat next week and we ask all to kindly remember them in your prayers as we pray for them to have a fun and reflective retreat:)

Peace,
Joachim

Sunday, November 16, 2008

BLYM Weekly Updates

Hey!

This week is Prison Week, a week dedicated to praying for prisoners, ex-prisoners and all who work with them. Let us keep these brothers and sisters of ours in our hearts.

As for the stuff that are coming up this week (and next)...

1. Cell Group this Friday at 8.30 p.m. at the Lighthouse. We will be sharing on the letter "N"

2. This is our last call for the PULAU UBIN trip on the 22nd November (meet at church at 8 a.m.). For all those who wish to go but have not signed up, please call or SMS Lionel @ 96212716

3. Advent Sessions with our beloved Fr Michal every Friday beginning on the 28th of November (Fri) This will be held in place of CG for the 4 weeks of Advent in St Mary's Room.

4. Come and join us for our introductory Youth Alpha session and barbecue at Lakepoint Condo on the 30th of Nov. Call Celine @ 90906469 to register or for more details.

5. Our last Youth Mass, we celebrated All Saints Day. For our next Youth Mass, it will be the First Sunday (technically, Saturday) of Advent. The 29th of November 6 p.m. sunset Mass. There will be a birthday party where all are invited. BLYM's birthday. ^^

6. Youth Choir. A choir that sings once every month which gives you more time to juggle between family and music. We welcome all who want to sing or play any instrument. Call or SMS Michael @ 94765852 for more information.

7. Testimonies Project. We are going to start a project collecting all your testimonies to share with others, especially adults. Send in your testimony(ies) to our email. =D

Hope you have a good week ahead and don't forget to love God. ;)

God bless,

patricia

Friday, November 14, 2008

"Non-violent Communication" by Sr Rose



Yesterday was the last session of NVC conducted fortnightly by Sr Rose.
And we had free CHOCOLATES at the end and having a mini performance of the NVC Song....lol. Anyway, for those who missed it, you can refer to the website and go through your own NVC course! [Click here]

Anyway, here's a very brief summary and key points given by Sr Rose:

- Violence comes from belief that other people cause our pain and therefore deserve punishment

- Judgments of others contribute to self-fulfilling prophecies

- When we judge others we contribute to violence.

- Practise translating each judgment into an unmet need.

- Stay conscious of the violent thoughts that arise in our minds
without judging them.

- When we hear the other person's feelings and needs, we recognize our common humanity.



Leave you with a nice writing by peacemaker Nelson Mandela:

Our Deepest Fear

Our deepest fear is not that we are inadequate.
Our deepest fear is that we are powerful beyond measure.
It is our Light, not our Darkness, that most frightens us.
We ask ourselves, who am I to be brilliant,
gorgeous, talented and fabulous?
Actually, who are you NOT to be?
You are a child of God.
Your playing small does not serve the World.
There is nothing enlightened about shrinking so that other people
won't feel insecure around you.
We were born to make manifest the glory of God that is within us.
It is not just in some of us;
it is in everyone.
As we let our own Light shine, we unconsciously give other people
permission to do the same.
As we are liberated from our own fear,
our presence automatically liberates other.

(posted by Mike)

Wednesday, November 5, 2008

BLYM Weekly Updates

Updates are coming a bit late this week, sorry. But here they are!

1) Cell group - "M" this week, 8.30pm in The Lighthouse, Lvl 4. Contact Patricia, 91135139 for more details.

2) Advent - Come, starting 28 Nov, a 4 weekly reflection session will be done on Advent by Father Michal. Where? St Mary's Room, lvl 3. Time: 8pm. Join us for an interactive and fun sessions!

3) Ubin Trip - Take a break, have a Kit-Kat around Ubin on 22 Nov. Enjoy the scenary, fellowship and know more friends! Contact Lionel @ 96212716 to register or for details.

4) Youth Alpha - An interactive, fun and comfortable way to know more about your faith and ask things that you had never asked before. For ages 15 - 19. Starting in Nov '08. Contact Celine for more details @ 90906469 or sign up now!

5) Youth Choir - The Youth Choir is still looking for your talents! Vocals and instruments of all kinds are in need. Call Joachim@92394826 if you are interested.

6) Willing to teach? - Our tuition group is off this year but will be back again next year. We are sincerely looking for youths to do peer buddy teaching for secondary level!

5) The Youth Ministry Office is inviting all youths aged 15 and above to a camp entitled "Dare to be Daniel". Attached is more information and the sign up form.

Hope to see you soon!

God bless,

Friday, October 31, 2008

BLYM Halloween Special

Hey!

Happy Halloween!!


Jack o Lanterns, witches and ghouls; why is a Catholic ministry wishing you on such an occasion? Doesn't sound very Christian if not pagan.

Did you ever think that maybe, just maybe, Halloween isn't pagan at all?
Celebrated on the 31st of October every year, it is really the eve of All Saints and All Souls days. Halloween, coming from the words "Hallow (Holy) evening", used to be called All Hallows' Eve. The Vigil of the two days which are dedicated especially to prayer for the dead.

Imagine that! Halloween is really a Catholic celebration!

Yes, it is celebrated on a pagan date. This is because the Church wanted to Christianise the pagan time for remembering the dead. "To bring light into darkness." All Saints and All Souls days are Catholic feasts, through and through.

You can read more about it at: "How Halloween Can Be Redeemed"

On this note, I'd like to invite you to
All Saints Day Youth Mass tomorrow, 1st of November at 6pm. And to the Youth Halloween fellowship after Mass at about 7pm at the Lighthouse for dinner and games and chilling out. (Dinner is by love offering, pay any amount you wish)

Hope to see you there!

God bless,

Sunday, October 26, 2008

BLYM Weekly Updates

Hello people!

Happy Holiday! Yes, my fingers are itching again and so I'm back! The Sec 3s confirmation retreat will be going on for these 2 days so I ask all to kindly pray for them and also did you notice the noticeboard along the toilet corridor? (*hint, hint) Well, it's revamped with a little space for our ministry events. Keep a lookout for another bigger thing coming your way, church entrance style. Now you know where to get more info on our ministry:)
Wat's on for the coming weeks? Check it out!

1) Cell group - Come by our Cell Group which is on it's letter "L" this week, 8.30pm in The Lighthouse, Lvl 4. Contact Patricia, 91135139 for more details.

2) Advent - Come, starting 28 Nov, a 4 weekly reflection session will be done on Advent by Father Michal. Where? St Mary's Room, lvl 3. Time: 8pm. Join us for an interactive and fun session! Bring a friend along!

3) Youth Mass - This Sat, 1st Nov, All Saints Day! Join us then after the Mass, for a time of mayhem and fellowship in The Lighthouse, Lvl 4! Bring a friend along!

4) Ubin Trip - Take a break, have a Kit-Kat around Ubin on 22 Nov. Enjoy the scenary, fellowship and know more friends! Contact Lionel @ 96212716 to register or for details. You can also register yourself this Sat outside the church entrance at our booth.

5) Youth Alpha - An interactive, fun and comfortable way to know more about your faith and ask things that you had never asked before. For ages 15 - 19. Starting in Nov '08. Contact Celine for more details @ 90906469 or sign up now!

6) Youth Choir - The Youth Choir is still looking for your talents! Vocals and instruments of all kinds are in need. Call Joachim@92394826 if you are interested.

7) Willing to teach? - Our tuition group is off this year but will be back again next year. We are sincerely looking for youths to do peer buddy teaching for secondary level! Pls reply back if your are interested!

*All suggestions warmly welcomed (hate mail, love mail or just mail).

Peace,
Joachim

Monday, October 20, 2008

Weekly Updates

Last Saturday was the Archdiocesan Youth Day 08 and an awesome youth rally was held at Toa Payoh stadium with praise and worship sessions that brought the stadium down and insightful talks. It was really awesome! Hopefully, the Confirmands were all touched by the Holy Spirit as this year's theme was in line with the WYD08 theme, You Will Receive The Power. Do pray for the Confirmands who will be attending their retreat next week. =)

But that is what's past. Now, we go on to what is to come:

1. Cell Group this Friday at 8.15 p.m. We've arrived at the letter K, it's amazing how time flies. We will be discussing the topic "Kingdom" this week.

2. Our beloved Fr Michal will be holding 4 sessions on Fridays during Advent to help us youth prepare for the celebration of the birthday of our Saviour. The sessions starts on 28 Nov. You know how to get more information, just email us. =)

3. The Youth Choir is still looking for your talents! Vocals and instruments of all kinds are in need. Call Joachim@92394826 if you are interested.

4. Pulau Ubin trip will be held on the 22th of November. We need to know the number of people who are coming along so please register by email, comment on our blog or something.

5. Youth Alpha. An interactive, fun and comfortable way to know more about your faith and ask things that you had never asked before. For ages 15 - 19. Starting in Nov '08. Contact Celine for more details @ 90906469 or sign up now!

6. The next Youth Mass will be something specatacular! It will be on the 1st of November, which is also All Saints Day. Experience the Mass like you rarely ever get to, in its fullness and glory. 1ST NOVEMBER, SATURDAY!!

7. Tuition will be suspended for this year as for most lucky people, exams are over. Those who wish to help out or join the tuition group next year, please call Joachim.

8. Presenting "Roman Catholicism 101" to young people who want to explain your Catholic faith to non-believers : Seven controversies explored such as, Does Belief in God demean us? The Catholic Mass. boring & irrelevant? 13 Dec - 14 Dec @ Choice Retreat House. Check out http://www.catholic.sg/act for more details.

That's all the current information we have. If you have anything else you want to know, you know where to reach us.

Here's to wishing all the O Levels people, here's a liltte verse from Proverbs 3: 5-6 for you:

"Trust in the Lord with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding, In all your ways acknowledge Him and He will make your paths straight."

God bless y'all,

patricia

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Blood Donation Drive



Terence Tay the photographer making good use of his God-given talents:)


(posted by raphaela)

BLYM 15 Oct Updates

Hello everyone!

Surprise! Surprise! It's me giving the updates this week. Once in a while, I will get the itch to write something, so for this week, I'm writing! Btw, do you know that we have our Facebook account? It's fun and it's pretty informative (well, on the way to making it more interactive) So come by and join us at
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=14846641385 ! Now on for the updates..

1) Cell group is on for this week and the letter is "I" relating to your life. Interested? Call Pat @ 91135139 for more details or join us at The Lighthouse (aka The Youth Room, Lvl 4) at 8.15pm!

2) For all the youths in the parish, there will be a 4 weekly Advent sessions by Father Michal, starting Nov 28! Watch this space for more details!

3) A time to know more new friends and experience nature during this Ubin trip on 22 Nov! Please reply back to email for interested participants.

4) An interactive, fun and comfortable way to know more about your faith and ask things that you had never asked before - Youth Alpha For ages 15 - 19. Starting in Nov '08. Contact Celine for more details @ 90906469 or sign up now!

5) Tuition is suspended for this year but will resume next year. If you are interested to help out in tutoring youths or to join us for tuition, please call Joachim @ 92394826.


6) Presenting "Roman Catholicism 101" to young people who want to explain your Catholic faith to non-believers : Seven controversies explored such as, Does Belief in God demean us? The Catholic Mass. boring & irrelevant? 13 Dec - 14 Dec @ Choice Retreat House. Check out http://www.catholic.sg/act for more details.

Ok, that's all and have a blessed week ahead!

Joachim

Friday, October 10, 2008

Something light hearted

[click on image to get a larger/clearer view]





[Posted by mike]

Monday, October 6, 2008

BLYM Weekly Updates

FEASTDAY! Feastday was startling existing. Ridiculously tiring but so fun! Our games stall proved to be a hit with many of the youth, young and old, and the effects of which were so satisfying to see. I sincerely hope that the funds raised will be sufficient to make our church a prettier looking place.

On an unrelated note, I would also like to publicise the recycle bins that have been places in our church carpark, next to the priests' cars. Please please PLEASE use them. God gave us responsibility over the Earth, we should protect it as much as we can.

On yet another unrelated note, our neighbouring parish, St Ignatius, is looking for another youth worker to help the current one. If you are interested, email back and we will help you get in touch with the appropriate people.

Ok, on to the updates:

1. Cell Group this Friday at 8 p.m. at the Lighthouse. Sr Rose will be coming to give another session on Non-Violent Communication. Call patricia @. 91135139 for more details.

2. BLYM will be running a series of four Advent sessions on Fridays. Come and prepare yourselves for the Birthday of our Saviour.

3. A bunch of crazy people *ahem* I mean, uhm... Children of God? (read: the Youth Team) have organised a trip to Pulau Ubin. It will be held in late November. Sign up by emailing back to join us for the trip. We need to know how many people want to go.

4. Youth Alpha for youth aged 15 to 19 is going to be run in our parish. The sessions will help you ask and answer some insightful questions on the God whom we've learned about but have never quite known about. The sessions will also help fill the stomach the kind Lord gave us ;) .Call Celine for more details @ 90906469.

5. Lourdes Experience - Lourdes Experience on Dec 6 needs young people as helpers. We are called to see our brothers and sisters in each other so let's start by with our fellow Singaporeans in this event. Help in ways such as setting up of chairs, ushering and small little ways in this Advent time! Contact Joachim @ 92394826 or sfa.youthteam@gmail.com.

6. We can help! - Tuition group every Sunday for upcoming exams. Contact Joachim @ 92394826, with your specified subjects, age, name and contact number.

Ok then, happy Monday to all of you!

God bless,

Tuesday, September 16, 2008

BLYM Weekly Updates

The blood donation drive last Sunday was great. The response was amazing and so many of our youths came forward to donate their precious young blood, literally! We want to thank all of the donors, of blood, of food and of prayers, because your gift has played a part in saving someone's life.

The updates this week are pretty straightforward, so less to type, hehe.

1. Cell Group this Friday at 8.15 p.m. at the Lighthouse, as always. This week will be the last of three sessions given by Sr Rose on Non-violent Communication.

2. Tuition every Sunday from 1 to 3 p.m. For those who are interested, let us know the subjects you need. Call Joachim @ 92394826 or email back.

3. Youth Alpha is coming soon!

With God's love,

Tuesday, September 2, 2008

BLYM Weekly Updates

In light of the new month, no pun intended, the youth of SFA have decided to name the Youth Room, THE LIGHTHOUSE. Sounds pretty and bright eh? Let the Lighthouse be a beacon for those who are lost in rough waters to know that dry land is near. And everyone is welcome in the SFA's Lighthouse. Especially (but not just) for quiet time be it for prayer or study.
Babbling aside, here are the updates:

1. There will be no cell group this Friday as the Coreteam will be having their recollection day. We do, however, ask all of you to pray for us. That the Lord give us guidance and clarity and charity.

2. Youth Mass will be, as usual, on the first Saturday of the month which is the 6th of September. There will also be a screening of the movie "Sliding Doors" after the Mass up in The Lighthouse (feels nice as it rolls out my fingers). Come, and bring a friend while you're at it!

3. Youth Choir is still in want of melodic voices and talents in musical instruments. If you can commit every once a month, do join us! call Joachim @ 92394826 or email back.

4. The blood donation drive is but two weeks away, the 14th of September. I hope you are keeping healthy if you've signed up as a donor. And for those who want to sign up, it's not too late! Just reply to this email with your name, age, blood type, email address, contact no and preferred time slots in terms of half an hour (eg: 9, 9.30, 10).

5. Secondary school level tuition is held on Sundays in the Lighthouse from 1 to 3 p.m. Interested teachers and students, call (or email) Joachim.

6. The WYDians are having their photo exhibition this Saturday and Sunday near the canteen.

7. Shine Jesus Shine: Monday, 08 Sept, 7.30pm, Novena Church

8. Amplify in the City: Friday 12 September, 7.45pm, NTUC Business Centre

9. Missionary trip by Acts29 to Philippines on Dec 1. Contact Joachim @ 92394826.

*tired from typing*

That's a lot of stuff coming up!
Hope to see you there.

Monday, August 18, 2008

BLYM Weekly Updates

For those of us who are in the public school system, it's that time of the year when all forms of enjoyment seems to be seeped into a black hole and all that is on our minds (and our parents' too) are exams. So the West District Churches of Singapore have come together to facilitate all students in calling the Holy Spirit to guide us and help us in this. We are organising an Exam Rally. The details will be in the point form parts of the email below. Also, the youth room will be open for quiet study on weekdays and Sundays.

For those of us who are NOT in the public school system (or are in the system but are of 16 or 17 years of age with parental consent XD), BLYM will be holding a Blood Donation Drive in September. Jesus Christ saved us with His blood; in a very earthly way, we too can save another person (or three) by giving our blood to those who need it.

So... Point form part of blogpost:

1. Cell group this Friday at 8.15 p.m. at the Youth Room. The alphabet of the week is G, we will be discussing the topic of Greed. Do come and join us for an insightful and fun Bible Sharing time.

2. Youth Mass will be held on every first Saturday of the rest of the months of the year. The next one will be on the 6th of Sept. As such, we will need your God-given talents to serve in this Mass with special attention to the Youth Choir which is a special choir that will serve once a month. Singers and players of all kinds of musical instruments are urged to come serve. Call Joachim or email us if you are interested or want more details.

3. Volunteers (admin and logistics) are needed for the blood donation drive. People are needed for the recruitment drives on 23rd-24th August and 30th-31st August as well as the drive itself on the 14th of September. Do come to help out and help spread the word too.

4. We will be starting free tuition classes for Secondary School level on the subjects of: Math, Science (Chem, Physics), English and History. The classes will be held on Sundays from 1 to 3 p.m. at the youth room. Calling all students who need the extra help and teachers who are willing to give that extra help.

5. As stated above, Exam Rally will be held on the 30th of August from 3 to 7 p.m. (including Sunset Mass) at Blessed Sacrament Church. We are trying to get a large enough number to go together so that we can hire a bus. Please get back to us if you wish to go. We currently have about 20 people going, we need about 10 more.

[end point form part of blogpost] ;)

Do contemplate the information above and get back to us about anything.

God bless you with a lovely week ahead.

Tuesday, August 12, 2008

BLYM Weekly Updates

The most significant bit about this week, to me, is the Feast of the Assumption of Mary. Mother Mary is the epitome of a mother, in my opinion. Not including the fact that she remained free from sin all throughout her life. She is a loving Mother to each of us who continuously intercedes for us. We are celebrating her feast this Friday.

1. As such, there will be no CG this Friday as there will be Mass.
2. The West District Churches, SFA included, will be holding an Exam Rally at Blessed Sacrament Church on the 30th of August at 3 p.m. for all those who are bogged down by exams. There will be Games, Praise&Worship, Testimony sharing, and closes with a Sunset Mass. If you're interested in coming, register with Joachim @ 92394826. If there are enough people, we can hire a bus to bring us all there.
3. There will be a blood donation drive on the 14th of September, Sunday. Volunteers needed for admin and logistics.
4. The Youth Room is open for quiet time and study. The times we are open are 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Weekdays and 10.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. on Sundays. =) Tuition by school teachers on every Sunday at 1pm for primary level. Cost is free.
5. For all who are interested in joining the Youth Choir, contact Joachim or reply to this email.

That's all for this week. Have a spectacular week ahead!

Wednesday, August 6, 2008

BLYM Weekly Updates


It has been a lonely last two weeks without me, hasn't it? Just Kidding, I seem to have grown to become a little more narcissistic =P

The mission trip was a wonderful experience and while I admit that reaching out to unreached people groups is not everyone's calling, I think everyone should at least explore it, try it out once in their lifetime. Priceless, entirely priceless.

SO! Updates:

  1. Cell Group as usual on Friday at 8 p.m. at the Youth Room. The topic for this week is FIRE!
  2. The West District Churches, SFA included, will be holding an Exam Rally at Blessed Sacrament Church on the 30th of August at 3 p.m. for all those who are bogged down by exams. There will be Games, Praise&Worship, Testimony sharing, and closes with a Sunset Mass. If you're interested in coming, register with Joachim @ 92394826. If there are enough people, we can hire a bus to bring us all there.
  3. There will be a blood donation drive on the 14th of September, Sunday. We are in need of blood, er I mean, donors, and volunteers to help out with the admin and logistics. Do email back if you are interested in helping us!
  4. The Youth Room is open for quiet time and study. The computers are available for your use as well, although we regret to say that there is still no internet as of yet. The times we are open are 8 p.m. to 10 p.m. on Weekdays and 10.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. on Sundays. =)


With love,

Thursday, July 24, 2008

SHOUT-OUTs for the week..in fact already end of the week...oops


1.
Cell Group this Friday at 8.15 p.m. in the Youth Room as usual. It will be special this week with Sister Rose coming to share about Non Violent Communication. How are you able to say the truth without hurting the other person?

2. As we are understaffed this month, there will be no movie screening this Saturday. Instead, the movie screening will be held after the Youth Mass on 2nd Aug 08.

3. Youth Mass will be on next week Saturday, 2nd Aug 08, 6.00pm.
Join us in this happy event of worshipping God! Still interested to join the Youth Choir?
Email us or call me @ 92394826.
The mass will be followed by fellowship and movie screening up in the Lighthouse (Youth Room).


Monday, July 21, 2008

Catch WYD videoclips on EWTN!



For most of us who're not able to be present at Sydney,
let's soak in the atmosphere and catch the actions there
@ http://www.ewtn.com/wyd2008/watch.htm

Wednesday, July 16, 2008

Weekly Update

WYD08 is currently in Sydney as I write this email. A handful of the youth from our parish are enjoying themselves there and I urge all of you to pray for their safety and for them to hear God's voice in their pilgrimage.
I also would like to invite all of you to pray for the whole youth core team as we have been doing a lot of traveling. It is especially important to have God by our sides as we face the less familiar in our lives.

So... UPDATES:

1) Cell Group this Friday at 8.15 p.m. in the Youth Room as usual. We are still discussing the topic of "dreams" this week, do come and join us.

2) As we are understaffed this month, there will be no movie screening this Saturday. Instead, the movie screening will be held on the 26th of July.

3) All those who are interested in being a part of our youth choir, a choir that sings for Youth Mass, please please please let us know by 20th July. We are not just looking for singers but all musicians: guitarists, violinists, flutist, cellist, keyboardist, percussionist, etc. The practice will most likely be one week before youth Mass and on the Saturday of the Mass itself, you would have to come at 5.00 p.m.for warm-ups and to run through the songs. The practice date will be confirmed once we gather the available dates from the interested people.

Three's a charm, so I'll leave it here.

Have a great week ahead!

Retreat Welcome Video

During our last Young Leaders Retreat, Fr Michal was away and could not be physically with us so we made a video of him addressing the young leaders of our parish of St Francis of Assisi.
His words of wisdom and encouragement are immortalised in the following videos.



Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Weekly Updates

1. Cell Group. As usual on Friday at 8.15 p.m. at the Youth Room. This week, we will be embarking on a new letter of our A-Z programme. This week, it is letter D, for DREAMS. Do come up!

2. Family Mass will be held next week on Friday with special intentions for the youth. Everyone who belongs to the family of Christ is strongly encouraged to go!

3. Roman Catholic Prison Ministry: July 20th, 9am to 11 am @ St Mary's Room. Creating an awareness on the consequences of breaking the law, criminal behavior and substance abuse with the hope to instill deterrence, and detachment from temptations and sins.

4.Youth Choir. As Youth Mass will be a monthly thing, we are looking to start a Youth Choir. Everyone who are interested to sing or to play a musical instrument for Jesus are asked to come and serve.

That's the updates. Lots of talk has been going on about World Youth Day 2008 and it's finally almost here. I implore to all of you who are stuck here in Singapore (just like me) to pray for those who are going on the WYD08 pilgrimage.


patricia



Dinner and fellowship @ Youth Room after

Youth Mass for the month of July.
~ A monthly affair, 1st Sat of every month.

Thursday, June 26, 2008

Weekly Updates

Ok, Go ahead, Shoot me, or do whatever you want to me. I apologise, very very very much, for the obscene lack of updates lately. There are just certain times during my life that my brain takes leave.
Anyway, I've come today with some updates for those of you who didn't (or don't) read the email. =)

1) Cell group this Friday at 8.15 p.m. in the Youth Room is on! We've gone through letters A and B so we will be moving on to C this week. =)

2) There will be no movie screening or hike this month as we are still in attempts to recharge ourselves after those few hectic weeks.

3)There will be a really cool concert this Friday! It's called Destination Christ: Friday, 27th June. Performed by Rexband. Location: Rock Auditorium, Suntec City Mall. $20.00. Email singapore@jesusyouth.org or call 96485801, 97404797 and 90679057 for more details.

4) There will also be another concert called Planet Love: Friday & Saturday, 27th June & 28th June. 8pm. Location: Jubilee Hall, Raffles Hotel. The cost is $50. This is a fund raising project for Sabah Monfort Youth Training Center. Email plove.tickets@gmail.com or call Tammy @97906340. I personally would like to go but can't, so I'm urging all of you, GO!




For cell group, we will be touching on the topic of COURAGE these two weeks. If you're wondering whether or not you should come, NOW proves to be a good time to pluck up the COURAGE and COME. =) Hope to see you there!


patricia

Monday, May 19, 2008

Go Light Your World



Too often, we forget that we are Christians who are called to light up the world.
Hopefully, this video and song will serve as a reminder to all of us, myself included, to live our Christian lives with the light of honesty, joy, peace, patience, understanding and love.

patricia

Saturday, May 17, 2008

House Warming





  1. There was the clearing out of all the junk.

  2. Then there was the car wash, to raise funds.

  3. Then there was the cleaning.

  4. Then there was the painting, blue and green.

  5. Then there was the installation of the air con.

  6. Then there was the going from one furniture shop to another to find the cheapest furniture.

  7. Then there was the going from one electronics shop to another to look for the cheapest electronics.

  8. Then there was even more shopping to look for the little items for finishing.

  9. Then there was the final cleaning.


And now, she is ready to come. Our beautiful baby, still unnamed.

Youth Room house warming is tomorrow! After all that hard work we've put in, all those hours of shopping and cleaning and more shopping and even more cleaning!
She's finally here with her inviting blue and green walls. With her flat screen TV and mini fridge. With her warm sofa and cozy rugs. With her two computers and her prayer corner.
She is finally here to welcome the youth of St Francis of Assisi, to provide a comfy, cozy environment for all to come together to just chill.

Join us tomorrow for the official unveiling followed by a blessing by the Holy Spirit through His servant, Fr Michal, at noon. Refreshments will be served, ;)


patricia

Tuesday, May 6, 2008

check us out!

First post.

I want to say Pat test but that just wouldn't do. ;)

This is the first post in BLYM's brand new blog!

I would ramble on and on about how proud I am, we all are, of this new baby but I shall spare you.

Upcoming events:


  1. Cell Group! Fridays at 8.15 p.m. at the Youth Room. A small group of us come together every Friday to share the Word of God. All are welcome although if you could drop us a note before dropping by, that would be nice.
  2. Day with Mary. Dinner tickets for a Day with Mary are still on sale. We will also be celebrating our spiritual director, Fr Michal's, anniversary at this dinner.
  3. Youth Room housewarming. On the 18th of May will be the official opening of the yet-to-be-named Youth Room. Light refreshments will be served to all parishioners who brave and survive the stairs to come up! BLYM t-shirts will also be on sale then.


We also appeal to everyone who reads this to pray for our June retreat and for the youth who are going to WYD08.

pat