Family takes centre stage at St Theresa’s PPA

Oct 04, 2024

Aileen Anthony 
The recent Parish Pastoral Assembly (PPA) for the Church of St Theresa (CSTN) concluded with a strong sense of purpose and renewed commitment in attendees. The assembly aimed to foster collaboration and enhance the parish community’s efforts moving forward.

CSTN Parish Pastoral Council Chairman Duncan Lucas kicked off the session by reflecting on the previous year’s activities, highlighting both successes and areas needing improvement.

While the ministries carried out many planned activities, the chairman called for increased ministry participation and a deeper commitment to faith formation. He emphasised the importance of focusing on internal parish life and ensuring that the parish’s actions resonate outward to the community. The assembly then discussed the four core areas: Family, Church, Ecology, and Society.

Family life took centre stage as members voiced concerns over mixed marriages, which are often a source of domestic and social tension for couples and their children. Another significant issue was the growing emotional distance between parents and children who have left their homeland for work, studies, or marriage. The need for more communication and connection was clear.

The assembly called for BECs and parish ministries to provide spiritual and emotional support through community prayers and house visits, particularly for the elderly and the sick.

The parishioners discussed the need for stronger outreach to young people and new families. There was a special emphasis on welcoming university students, encouraging them to attend services regularly and engaging in the church’s youth ministry. Likewise, new families must be encouraged to join their respective BECs and deepen their sense of belonging in the parish community.

On the ecological front, members agreed that the Church must prioritise environmental awareness across all ministries. Discussions focused on breaking down large, often intimidating ecological concepts into practical steps that the parish can implement, fostering greater understanding and action within the community.

As part of the discussion on society, there was a strong call to witness Jesus to those of other faiths in the simplest and most authentic ways. Actions speak louder than words; we can reflect Christ’s love and teachings through our everyday deeds. Parishioners must be encouraged to let their lives serve as a living testimony, showing compassion, kindness, and understanding to others.

The session ended on a reflective note with an address from Archbishop Julian Leow, who reminded everyone that “the most effective teacher is an example.” He urged parishioners to ask themselves, “How can I be an example in my parish?” This question, he noted, should guide every action as the parish moves forward, committed to living out its faith and reaching out to those in need.