SFA hosts jubilee of contemplative living pilgrimage

Mar 14, 2025

CHERAS: The Church of St Francis of Assisi (SFA) recently hosted the Jubilee of Contemplative Living Pilgrimage, a spiritual journey aimed at renewing and deepening the faith of all participants. It was jointly organised by five of the church’s ministries: the Beacon of Hope Ministry; Catholic Charismatic Renewal Ministry; Health and Wellness Ministry; Pilgrimage Ministry, and the World Community for Christian Meditation Ministry.

Held on March 1, the pilgrimage attracted 160 participants for the afternoon session, with an additional 50 attending the evening Catholic Charismatic Renewal (CCR) session. Led by Fr Paul Cheong OFM, Cap, the event offered participants the chance to receive the Jubilee plenary indulgence — special grace granted during the Holy Year — while entering into a sacred stillness that allowed the Holy Spirit to purify, renew, and transform their souls.

The pilgrimage began with a talk by Fr Paul on What is Contemplative Living? He highlighted that mindful living is at the heart of contemplative living, reflecting the biblical principle, “We live by faith, not by sight” (2 Cor 5:7). Fr Paul encouraged participants to cultivate gratitude, offering thanks to God in all aspects of life.

This was followed by a Mindful Living Workshop conducted by Dr Madelene Ong, who explored the significance of mindfulness in daily life. She introduced the concept of mindful eating, encouraging participants to cultivate awareness in every bite they take. By breaking free from unconscious eating habits, individuals can develop a more intentional and present approach to life. She also taught mindful breathing techniques, demonstrating how conscious breathing fosters calmness, focus, and relaxation, helping to centre one’s thoughts in God’s presence.

After a short tea break, the event continued with a session by Jason Lee from the World Community for Christian Meditation ministry. He highlighted the holistic benefits of Christian meditation, explaining how silence, stillness, and surrender open the heart to experience God’s indwelling presence. Jason also provided practical guidance on achieving the proper meditation posture, encouraging participants to integrate this practice into their daily spiritual routines.

A highlight of the pilgrimage was the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Many who had not been to confession for a long time answered the call to seek God’s mercy. It took six priests over an hour to hear all confessions, reflecting the deep yearning for spiritual renewal among the pilgrims.

Another key moment was the veneration of relics at the Chapel of Portiuncula. Pilgrims were given a detailed explanation of the relics, deepening their understanding of their spiritual significance. This allowed each participant to offer personal prayers and intentions, fostering a connection with the saints and their exemplary faith journeys.

The evening proceeded with novena and Mass, and a communal dinner where pilgrims continued to reflect and share their spiritual experiences of the day.

The final segment of the pilgrimage was the Praise and Worship session, gathering 200 faithful in the evening CCR session. Fr Paul delivered a talk titled The Purifying Fire of the Spirit: Contemplation and Transformation. He shared his personal journey of spiritual purification and transformation, recounting how the Legion of Mary and CCR played a crucial role in his spiritual growth.

Fr Paul emphasised that the purity of the spirit is reflected in the purity of the mind and body. He discussed various forms of prayer and identified the eight deadly thoughts that often challenge our spiritual journey. Through prayer, discipline, and contemplative practices, one can overcome temptations and trials.

A particularly intriguing aspect of his talk was his reference to Qigong and meditation as healing energies for the spirit. He explained how these practices, when rooted in Christian spirituality, help align the body, mind, and soul with God’s divine presence.

Fr Paul concluded with this message: “CCR serves to ignite and awaken the fire of faith within us, fostering a new Pentecost. However, it is our responsibility to nurture, sustain, and grow this Pentecostal life through the practice of eight spiritual habits.’’

Participants left with renewed faith, a deeper commitment to contemplative living, and a greater awareness of God’s presence in their daily lives.