May 2022

The Outreach Office and Youth & Young Adults Office are jointly organising a series of talks called “Friday’s Catch”, which focus on Pope Francis' encyclical, Laudato Si’ – Praise Be To You, and cover topics that will give partipants a deeper appreciation on caring for our common home through the spirit of hope and joy.

Friar Derrick kicked off the first session on 22 April held at St Clare Hall with about 120 attendees. The program started with games and a communal prayer, after which we listened to the song “Canticle of Creation” (by St Francis of Assisi and sung by Simon De Voil). While the song may sound upbeat, Friar Derrick shared that the inspiration for the words came from St Francis' experience of sickness and pain, which led to him questioning God: “Who are you, God?” and “Who am I?”

We are reminded that painful moments reveal our true nature. Pain shows us that we are humans in need of structure, and when the music fades and all is stripped away, we are like all other creation - created with divine intention.

To commemorate Earth Day, a new ministry (under the Outreach Office umbrella) called Fioretti De San Francesco was launched. This ministry was set up to cultivate love and care for creation amongst our community, through programs such as guided nature walks, workshops, recycling projects and many more. So do look out for more information on their page: stmary.sg/fioretti.

The next Friday’s Catch talk will be held on 24 June, given by Fr Glenn de Cruz, CSsR, who will touch on our response to the “Cry of the Poor”, one of the seven goals of Laudato Si’. More information will be posted on our Friday's Catch page at stmary.sg/fridayscatch. Do join St Mary’s Telegram group to be kept informed or visit our website regularly to find out more.