Catholic students in Singapore marked the Jubilee of Youth this month with Masses, pilgrimages, and personal commitments to live out their faith.
According to a report by Catholic News SG, the official news service of the Catholic Church in Singapore, students from Catholic schools joined celebrations through school liturgies and local pilgrimages while making resolutions to share Christ with others.
At Hai Sing Catholic School in Pasir Ris, the Jubilee Mass became an opportunity for young Catholics to set personal faith goals. Fifteen-year-old Dionetta Jean D’Cruz said she was moved to reach out to those who may feel isolated.
“I want to make these people feel loved by showing them that they’re never alone and God will always be there for them no matter what,” she said.
Other students offered similar pledges, including 13-year-old Lactaoen Hannah Claire Andalajao, who said she hopes to “help charities and spread the Word of God to them.”
At the same time, Naomi Chan resolved to assist her parents with household chores “and do it with joy.”
The students later visited the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd for a pilgrimage led by their chaplain, Sister Bernadetha Kigo, FMM.
“They recited the Rosary together on the bus, and they remained prayerful when they processed into church, and throughout the afternoon,” Sr Bernadetha said.
The nun expressed hopes that the students “continue this spirit of prayer throughout the year, and that it will help them to be closer to God, their family, and friends.”
Meanwhile, Catholic Junior College students embarked on a tour of three historic churches in the Bras Basah and Bugis precincts: the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, the Church of Sts Peter and Paul, and St Joseph’s Church.
For JC1 student Faith Elora Hor, the experience highlighted God’s enduring presence in the Church’s history in Singapore.
“Each sacred site told a story of how the early missionaries and communities kept the flame of faith burning despite the obstacles,” she said. “God has always walked with us, and I have a renewed trust and hope that He will continue to lead us forward.”
