Cardinal William Goh of Singapore told Catholic theology graduates to put their learning at the service of others, warning that “it is selfish to study theology only for yourself.”
Speaking at a graduation ceremony at the St Francis Xavier Seminary in Upper Bukit Timah, the cardinal addressed 61 graduates of the Catholic Theological Institute of Singapore (CTIS), according to Catholic News SG.
“Theology is about changing lives by contributing to thinking in society and engaging in dialogue with others,” he said, adding that studying the faith helps Catholics stand up for the Church when it is criticized.
The prelate urged graduates to serve in ministries, teach the faith, and help build communities, stressing that formation deepens through engagement.
“When you start walking with people, they will question you about the faith. That is how you get better at theology, because you have to make sure you know your faith well,” he said.
The ceremony underscored the Church’s push to strengthen lay formation and participation in mission, with graduates describing how their studies are shaping their work and ministry.
Monica Lim, chief editor of Hai Sing Pao, Singapore’s only Chinese-language Catholic newspaper, said her studies helped her communicate Church teaching more clearly.
“The classes helped me understand the theological concepts mentioned by the priests and religious I interview, so that I can explain them clearly to our readers,” said Lim, 57, who enrolled with her husband in 2019. Both received diplomas.
James Chen, 28, a volunteer facilitator with Catholic Family Life’s I am Made for More sexuality education program, said his formation would support his work with young people.
“The content covered in the philosophy and moral theology modules will help me explain Church teaching about human sexuality, identity, and the dignity of the human person,” he said.
For Yvonne Tong, 39, the Chinese-language department valedictorian, theological study also became a path of healing. “I have been blessed to encounter many seniors, professors, and fellow believers,” she said.
“Seeing their faith and discovering God’s love through their life stories inspired me,” she added.
Established in 2013, CTIS provides systematic theological formation for lay Catholics. About 770 students from Singapore and other countries have graduated from its English- and Mandarin-language programs.
