Young Adults organise Apologetics Formation in Penang

Feb 09, 2017

By Dr Ivan Filmer
Why do we genuflect at the pews in church? What is the Orans posture? Are Catholics cannibals? What can be substituted for wine at the Mass? Receive communion on the tongue or in the hand? Why does the priest take so long to dress up for Mass?

These were some of the questions posed to the audience who came to attend the Apologetics Formation conducted by the Single Young Adults (SYA) of the Church of the Divine Mercy (CDM) on January 20. Fr Martin Arlando, parish priest of CDM had given a challenge to the Ministry of SYA at the end of last year, to do a series of formations on the Faith for 2017. They decided to devote their efforts towards Apologetics. They had to come up with a series of relevant topics that would attract the parishioners and give a better understanding of the traditions and practices of the Catholic faith. After intensive preparation for more than two months they launched a series for formation with the first session “Activating Your Senses During Mass.”

The session began with the explanation of the word “Apologetics,” which has its origins in Greek meaning “speaking in defence.” Hence, by providing facts from research, a systematic defence of the faith can be given. Six presenters spoke about Actions and Gestures at Mass, Why we attend Mass, the Eucharist, The Bread and Wine at Mass, the Objects used at Mass and lastly, the Garments and Clothing used at Mass and the significance of their colours.

Each presenter posed many questions commonly asked by Catholics but which they never really understood or found answers to. There were also many interesting slides and the audience was invited to write down their questions for a Q & A at the end of the session. Many remarked that this was an eye-opener for them and they now have a better understanding of the Mass.

At the end of the session, Fr Martin provided more detailed answers to the questions posed by the audience. He also said that the SYA had worked independently to prepare for this formation. He complimented them on their efforts and encouraged the audience to come for the next session on Marriage. These formations are planned for every two months and directed towards the many serious issues presently facing the Catholic Church.