Brotherhood and sisterhood

May 17, 2020

By Mark Tan From JCC
Within the restrictions of the MCO, many unexpected things have come about. From virtual bird-watching to animals returning to their original habitats, the birth of the JPII Teens Ministry was just as unforeseen.

Dreaming of a church that will continue to exist during this present season, the ministry strives to create a space for teens to gather to chat, grow and explore their faith.

The Ministry recently held a series of sessions on brotherhood and sisterhood based on the Theology of the Body. The series raised serious conversations on topics related to true authentic brotherly and sisterly relationships while shedding light on the roadblocks preventing us from reaching it. Paired with the discussions were also exciting games and prizes delivered via GrabFood.

The sessions explored what it means to cultivate and possess a disposition of sacrifice, humility, and empathy, as displayed in Christ’s character and through other notable people such as the women at the feet of the cross and Fr Maximilian Kolbe, lifting each other up in times of sorrow and sacrificing one’s life for another respectively. Covered additionally were the roadblocks associated with achieving fervent friendship such as competition and comparison, the perversion of sensual and sentimental attraction, and protecting one self from personal voids and insecurities.

To complement this, subjects on remedying such  issues were also discussed. For instance, imitating the emotional virtue of Christ and strengthening one’s empathetic ability. It stressed that this is achievable when one’s heart chooses to grow in a deeper relationship with Jesus, the One who can ultimately grant us peace and true companionship.

Although formed in unusual times, the St JPII Teens Ministry is ready to take on the task of connecting with others virtually but always with God personally.

We remain virtually connected but spiritually united.