CSA Voices

Investiture Mass

2008-09-09T09:34:00.002+08:00

NTU CSA will hold its investiture Mass to comission the newly elected 18th Executive Committee in the following Mass:

CSA Investiture Mass

10 September 2008

06.30 PM

NIE LT 7

Celebrant: Mgr. Nicholas Chia, Archbishop of Singapore

Be there with the 18th Executive Committee, support them in prayer!

Ministry Appreciation Mass

2008-08-17T22:33:00.002+08:00

Wednesday, 20 August 2008.
NIE LT 5
6 PM.

This Wednesday, 20 August, everybody call it Subcomm Appreciation Mass, but I prefer to call it Ministry Appreciation Mass.

To me, CSA is never a club so the members are not supposed to be sub-committee member. To me, CSA is a Church; watch out the capital 'C'. And the Catholic Church has ministries in it to minister the Gospel to the member and to all, a Church has ministries to minister the richness of the Church (the Sacraments together with the sanctifying grace, etc) to the members to live their lives according to the Gospel and the Magisterium of the Church.

A Church is not a church. CSA is a Church. And, we too have ministries in CSA such as the Mass Ministry, ACTS Ministry, Publicity and Publication Ministry, Spritual Ministry, CPG Ministry, Music Ministry, Special Project Ministry, and Legion of Mary Ministry. All of these ministries work together to build the body of Christ.

Christifideles Laici, an encylical written by late Pope JP II, encouraged all lay people to be apostles of Christ to the world. In Baptism, like Jesus, we are invested as priests, prophets, and kings. That is to say that we have the same task as Jesus to proclaim the Good News to the end of the earth.

You all are called to serve in active ministries in CSA: to grow together in Christ and to help others grow in the image of Christ. Remember Jesus's call when he said "the harvest is large but the workers are few." The same call resounds today to you and me. If you think that you may not qualify, let me share a piece of advise that my senior told me before, God qualifies those he choose. Moreover, it is Jesus's promise that he will be with us till the end of time.

Solemnity of the Assumption of Our Lady

2008-08-14T10:26:00.002+08:00

Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

This Friday is the feast of Assumption. It's a day of obligation and we have the privilege to celebrate the Mass on campus. The Mass will be on:

15th August 2008
12.30 PM
NIE LT7

Looking forward to seeing you guys there!
Shalom!

*thinking to sabo somebody else in this post...Ton2 perhaps...*

*Oh yeah...no food for this Mass. :P*

Welcome Tea Mass

2008-08-12T17:21:00.007+08:00

Freshmen Welcome Tea Mass!!!!

What else can you expect at the beginning at the term? So, bring along any Catholic freshmen or those who are interested to know more about the Catholic faith (they can join RCIA! *hint hint Bobby, sabo Gibran again :P*) to our welcome tea mass at:

NIE LT7
6.30 PM

When?

13 August 2008!

So, be there because our cover boy of the year will be there to grace the event!

There will be food :P

First Mass of the Semester

2008-08-05T09:41:00.003+08:00

Brothers and sisters in Christ,

Welcome back to school!
As we start the new semester, we continue to ask for the blessing of our God.
The first Mass will be held on:

Wednesday, 6 August 2008
NIE LT6
6PM

Bring along freshies with you!
We welcome them to CSA family as we make our home in Jesus!

In Christ,

CSA 17th Exco
"To make our home in Jesus"

NTU CSA FOC 2008 Registration

2008-06-08T13:32:00.002+08:00

Come Spirit Ignite
FOC 2008 Registration

Date: 22-25th July 2008

Contact Person: Cheryl Kang (97645302)
Rina (96289372)

or visit our website at
http://csafoc-csi.blogspot.com/

CSA Community Involvement Programme 2008

2008-04-29T20:43:00.002+08:00

What is it? CSA Community Involvement Programme (CIP) is an event where we as NTU-CSA members can contribute to the community around us. Just as Jesus teaches us to love others, in the same way we can do it by caring the people that need our love in a very simple way.

When is it? This year is the first time for CSA to have this CIP programme, hopefully it can be a meaningful event for everyone. It will be held on Saturday 3rd May 2008, 10 am

Where is it? For this time, it will be at St. Joseph Home, Boonlay. It is a home for the elderly with a lot of wonderful residents that will be more than happy to see our smiles :)

How to get there? Map : http://www.stjh.org.sg/contact.html. For those staying in halls can meet at 9am at Canteen A, we'll go together there.

What will we do there? Lotsssss of things. We'll have the time to interact with the residents there and share our joy with them. Remember that all things that we do for the least of our brothers and sisters, we do it for Jesus himself.

See you all there!!!! God bless.

To Make Our Home in Jesus,

Randy

2008-03-25T17:29:00.002+08:00

Be Obedient

A man was sleeping at night in his cabin when suddenly his room filled with light and the Savior appeared. The Lord told the man he had work for him to do, and showed him a large rock in front of his cabin. The Lord explained that the man was to push against the rock with all his might. This the man did, day after day. For many years he toiled from sun up to sun down, his shoulders set squarely against the cold, massive surface of the unmoving rock, pushing with all his might. Each night the man returned to his cabin sore, and worn out, feeling that his whole day had been spent in vain.

Seeing that the man was showing signs of discouragement, the devil decided to enter the picture by placing thoughts into the man's weary mind "You have been pushing against that rock for a long time, and it hasn't budged. Why kill yourself over this? You are never going to move it." This gave the man the impression that the task was impossible and that he was a failure. These thoughts discouraged and disheartened the man. "Why kill myself over this?" he thought. "I'll just put in my time, giving just the minimum effort and that will be good enough." And that is what he planned to do until one day he decided to make it a matter of prayer and take his troubled thoughts to the Lord.

"Lord" he said, "I have labored long and hard in your service, putting all my strength to do that which you have asked. Yet, after all this time, I have not even budged that rock by half a millimeter. What is wrong? Why am I failing?"

The Lord responded compassionately, "My friend, when I asked you to serve me and you accepted, I told you that your task was to push against the rock with all your strength, which you have done. Never once did I mention to you that I expected you to move it. Your task was to push. And now you come to me, with your strength spent, thinking that you have failed. But, is that really so?

Look at yourself. Your arms are strong and muscled, your back sinewy and brown, your hands are callused from constant pressure, and your legs have become massive and hard. Through opposition you have grown much and your abilities now surpass that which you used to have. Yet you haven't moved the rock. But your calling was to be obedient and to push and to exercise your faith and trust in My wisdom. This you have done. I, my friend, will now move the rock."

At times, when we hear a word from God, we tend to use our own intellect to decipher what He wants, when actually what God wants is just simple obedience and faith in Him.... By all means, exercise the faith that moves mountains, but know that it is still God who moves the mountains. You just P.U.S.H.!

When everything seems to go wrong,... P.U.S.H.!

When the job gets you down,... P.U.S.H.!

When people don't react the way you think they should,... P.U.S.H.!

When you want to curse them out for whatever the reason,... P.U.S.H.!

When people just don't understand you,... P.U.S.H.!

P.U.S.H. = Pray Until Something Happens!

Finally, after quite sometime without new posting =p Haha.. Thanks to Nirmalee for sharing this nice story yesterday during the EXCO meeting. I find this story really inspiring for me and reminds me of the importance of being obedient to God. In times we might feel tired of what we are doing and it seems that the trials just keep coming, but we need to remember also that maybe the thing that we want is simply not what God wants us to do. For me I feel that being obedient is to keep leaning on Him even though things are still going wrong but I must wait in Him with hope and patience. Obedience is something continuous and it is during the difficult time that we must remember to keep being obedient.

Catholic Awareness Week

2008-03-10T00:01:00.002+08:00

Link for recent Photos!

2008-01-30T00:32:00.000+08:00

Hi everyone,

This is the link to the pictures of CSA activities taken recently. Do take a look!

http://www.flickr.com/photos/22026431@N05/

Its done by Jonathan Lim (MAE/1) from Publicity, do give some comments!

Alex Ik
To Uphold God's Image with Creativity and Love

And all things are good.. :)

2008-01-16T09:28:00.000+08:00

Again...joke-of-the-day.com ;)

Once upon a time, there was a poor farmer in China who used an old horse to plow his field. One afternoon, the horse dropped dead, and everyone in the village said, "Oh, what a horrible thing to happen." The farmer said simply, "We'll see." He was so at peace and so calm, that everyone in the village got together and, admiring his attitude, bought him a new horse as a gift.

Everyone's reaction now was, "What a lucky man." And the farmer said, "We'll see."

A couple days later, the new horse jumped a fence and ran away. Everyone in the village shook their heads and said, "What a poor fellow!" The farmer smiled and said, "We'll see."

Eventually, the horse found his way home, and everyone again said, "What a fortunate man."
The farmer said, "We'll see."

Later in the year, the farmer's young boy went out riding on the horse and fell and broke his leg. Everyone in the village said, "What a shame for the poor boy." The farmer said, "We'll see."

Two days later, the army came into the village to draft new recruits. When they saw that the farmer's son had a broken leg, they decided not to recruit him. Everyone said, "What a fortunate young man." The farmer smiled again - and said, "We'll see."

We are not in control of the world. Often what looks like a setback or a difficulty is actually a helping hand from the Divine. And often, only with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight can we see that everything happened to help us along the path for the mission determining why we are here in this world. So the next time, something supposedly bad happens to you, say, "This, also, is for good," and expect that one day you will understand why.

Relationships

2008-01-13T20:01:00.000+08:00

From joke-of-the-day.com again.. hehehe ;) It's a very nice one... thought I could share it with you :)

Remember the day I borrowed your brand new car and I dented it?
I thought you'd kill me but you didn't.

* And remember the time I dragged you to the beach and you said it would rain and it did?
I thought you'd say, "I told you so", but you didn't.

* Do you remember the time I flirted with all the guys to make you jealous and you were.
I thought you'd leave me, but you didn't.

* Do you remember the time I spilled strawberry pie all over your car rug.
I thought you'd yell at me but you didn't.

* And remember the time I forgot to tell you the event was formal and you showed up in jeans?
I thought you'd drop me. But you didn't.

* Yes, there were lots of things you didn't do.
But you put up with me and you loved me and you protected me.

This is Rex Barker, reminding you that love and caring is often as much about what you don’t do, as much as what you do “do”. Realizing that we are all human, that we all make mistakes, that we all are imperfect, and forgiving someone the way you would like to be forgiven are the first step in having a truly wonderful and loving relationship.

Parable of the pencil

2008-01-11T09:32:00.001+08:00

From Joke-of-the-day.com.

Enjoy! :)

The Pencil Maker took the pencil aside, just before putting him into the box.

"There are 5 things you need to know," he told the pencil, "..before I send you out into the world. Always remember them and never forget, and you will become the best pencil you can be."

1. You will be able to do many great things, but only if you allow yourself to be held in someone's hand.

2. You will experience a painful sharpening from time to time, but you'll need it to become a better pencil.

3. You will be able to correct any mistakes you might make.

4. The most important part of you will always be what's inside.

5. On every surface you are used on, you must leave your mark. No matter what the condition, you must continue to write.

This is Rex Barker, reminding you that we all need to constantly be sharpened and hoping that this parable encourages you to know that you are a special person, with unique God given talents and abilities and that only you can fulfill the purpose which you were born to accomplish. Never allow yourself to get discouraged and think that your life is insignificant and cannot be changed.

Epiphany of the Lord

2008-01-05T23:40:00.004+08:00

The Epiphany of the Lord

It has been sometime since my last posting either here or in the CSA blog. I haven't touched the blogs for quite some time since my last exam. Anyway, this posting will be my Christmas and New Year postings. :)

The people who walked in darkness have seen a great light;upon those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone. (Is 9:1)

The Christmas celebration is all about the celebration of light, the light that come to the world. The true light that John spoke in John 1:9. He is the light that shines in the darkness and the darkness has not overcome it (John 1:5).

Today, the Christmas celebration is crowned with the Epiphany of the Lord. This light has shone throughout the world. The adoration of the magi is the symbol that Christ has come for all men in this world, to be the light for all men to adore. This light will come to every corner of the world so that everyone who walk in darkness may see a great light.

We, pilgrims in this earth, are called to this light. This great light, is the same light that asked Adam, "Where are you?" (Gen 3:9) (Notice how this question is really the first question that God asks from the human race in the Bible). This same invitation is offered to us.

The second invitation from God is the question from Yahweh to Cain, "Where is your brother Abel?" (Gen 4:9) (Notice that this question is God's second question to the human race). Cain asked God, "Am I my brother's keeper?" We often act like Cain, we often ask God, "Am I my brother's keeper?" And we are. Jesus said, "Love one another. As I have loved you, so you also should love one another." (John 13:34).

Only by answering to God's call for us all, the song that the angel sang when Christ was born 2000 ago may resound in heaven and earth in this very day.
"Glory to God in the highest and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests" (Lk 1:14)

Truly yours in Christ,

Adhika Lie
CSA 17th ExCo
"To make our home in Jesus"

EXAM TIPS

2007-10-31T15:21:00.000+08:00

Below are some of the advice for you who are taking exams!!!

Studying Methods

hiee!

here's some exam tips i found online..i'm not gonna recommend mystudy in tips coz its all warped and wrong..like coffee and latenights =X so erm, IDEALLY, this would be it:

Students with better study methods and strategies score higher ontheir exams.Everyone is different, different methods work for different people the following are only suggestions on improving upon your currentstudying techniques.

It is best to review the material right after class when it's still fresh in your memory.

Don't try to do all your studying the night before the test, instead space out your studying, review class materials at least several times a week, focusing on one topic at a time.

Have all of your study material in front of you: lecture notes,course textbooks, study guides and any other relevant material.

Find a comfortable and quiet place to study with good lighting and little distractions (try avoiding your own bed; it is very tempting to just lie down and take a nap).

Start out by studying the most important information.

Learn the general concepts first; don't worry about learning the details until you have learned the main ideas.

Take notes and write down a summary of the important ideas as you read through your study material.

Take short breaks frequently, you memory retains the information that you study at the beginning and the end better than what youstudy in the middle.

Space out your studying, you'll learn more by studying a little every day instead of waiting to cram at the last minute. By studying everyday, the material will stay in your long-term memory but if youtry to study at the last moment, the material will only reside inyour short-term memory that you'll easily forget.

Make sure that you understand the material well, don't just read through the material and try to memorize everything.

If you choose to study in a group, only study with others who are serious about the test.

Test yourself or have someone test you on the material to find outwhat your weak and strong areas are. You can use the reviewquestions at the end of each chapter or practice tests the teachermay give out as well as other materials.

Listening to relaxing music such as classical or jazz on a lowvolume can relieve some of the boredom of studying.

Don't study later than the time you usually go to sleep, you may fall asleep or be tempted to go to sleep, instead try studying in the afternoon or early evening. If you are a morning person try studying in the morning.

Contributed By:
Ng Lee Huan Geraldine
Accounting/2

MCQ Exam Tips

Thought this might be a good read for those mcq papers you have to tackle. =)Multiple choice exam tips

General Rule: Break each question into the stem and the alternatives.Get an understanding of the stem before looking at and choosing analternative. Underline key terms and clue words in the stem. When yourun into vague terminology, define in your own words. Think of the correct answer and then look for it among the alternatives.

1. Don't guess too soon! You must select not only a correct answer,but the best answer. It is therefore important that you read all of the options and not stop when you come upon one that seems likely.

2. You must select not only a technically correct answer, but the most completely correct answer. Since "all of the above" and "none of the above" are very inclusive statements, these options, when used,tend to be correct more often than would be predicted by chance alone.

3. Be wary of options which include unqualified absolutes suchas "never," "always," "is," "are," "guarantees," "ensures." Such statements are highly restrictive and very difficult to defend. They are rarely (though they may sometimes be) correct options.

4. The less frequently stated converse of the above is that carefully qualified, conservative, or "guarded" statements tend to be correct more often than would be predicted by chance alone. Other things being equal, favor options containing such qualifying phrases as "may sometimes be," or "can occasionally result in."

5. Be wary of the extra-long or "jargony option." These are frequently used as decoys.

6. Use your knowledge of common prefixes, suffixes, and word roots to make intelligent guesses about terminology that you don't know. Aknowledge of the prefix "hyper," for instance, would clue you that hypertension refers to high, not low, blood pressure.

7. Be alert to give-aways in grammatical construction. The correct answer to an item stem which ends in "an" would obviously be an option starting with a vowel. Watch also for agreement of subject sand verbs.

8. Utilize information and insights that you've acquired in working through the entire test to go back and answer earlier items that you weren't sure of.

9. If you are not certain of an answer, guess... but do so methodically. Eliminate some choices you know are incorrect, then relate each alternative back to the stem of the question to see if itfits. Narrow down the choice to one or two alternatives and then compare them and identify how they differ. Finally, make an informed guess.

10. If you have absolutely no idea what the answer is, can't use any of the above techniques, and there is no scoring penalty for guessing, choose option B or C. Studies indicate that these are correct slightly more often than would be predicted by chance alone.

11. When you get "all the above," "none of the above," or "a,b, not c" type questions, treat each alternative as a true-false questionand relate it back to the question stem.

12. Think the answer is wrong? Maybe you should change it? Studies indicate that when students change their answers they usually change them to the wrong answer. Therefore, if you were fairly certain you were correct the first time, leave the answer as it is.

MCQ Exam tips contributed by:
Ann Gomez
Bio-Chem year 1

Secret Concortion(Try this!!!)

hy guys..here's my exam tips...

if u feel dizzy after reading your lecture notes for the whole day,
do not consume medicine like panadol or ect...
isotonic drinks can help you to reduce those dizziness...
mix 100plus or pocari sweat with water (1:2),
and drink it,and take a rest for 30min or take a nap...
u'll get better after that..
dizziness can be caused by losing too much ion when you are studying
(sometimeswe force our brain to think right??)...
the isotonic can help you regain thoselost ions...
and it won't give you any harm because it will become less carbonated after you mix it with water..
having panadol to overcome the dizziness may cause a kind of "addicted" because you tend get dizzy easier later and you will need another panadol...

do not drink "red bull" or energy drink, because it contains lots of caffein and will disturb your brain schedule..
because after you drink it, you are fully energized,
too much ions will be drawn from your body,
causing less focus to study for the next module...

do not suddenly change your daily schedule during your exam period because it will mess up your brain schedule...
if you are used to sleep late at night, do that during exam...
if you do not eat breakfast before morning lecture,
do not eat too before your morning exam...

cheers...happy exam....

Secret Concortion contributed by
Stellora Sunyobi
BIE year 2

Above are some of the Exam tips from the Publicity Subcomms.
Good Luck and All the best for your exams!!

Alex
To Uphold God's Image with Creativity and Love.

CSA Retreat 2007

2007-10-29T11:12:00.000+08:00

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

How are you all doing? Fine? I pray that you all are doing fine despite the quizzes, projects, reports, and other compulsory stuffs that you need to do as a student. Or maybe not so much as a student, but as a part of a community or an organization, be it CSA or any other community or organization. May God bless all of our work that all those can be used for His glory.

Dear brothers and sisters in Christ, the purpose of this writing is to invite you to CSA retreat 2007 that is going to be held right after the exams on 3-5 December 2007 at the church of Saint Teresa. Why should we have a retreat after we just have finished the semester? While it is a practical thing to do since it is holiday, it is more on because we need a quite time to reflect on our journey of life, be it our journey in the semester that will have just passed, or be it our journey of life as a whole. This will bring us closer to God and to the others, such as our family, friends, or maybe those outside there that we may previously do not care. This is true because a deepening relationship with God should also bring us closer to the others. Therefore, that is why occasional retreat is very healthy for our spirituality and happiness. Not to mention for others, indirectly.

The theme of the upcoming retreat is Footprints: The way back home. What does this theme signify? Footprints signifies reflection and home signifies the home of love and peace that we ran away from. Picture the story of the prodigal son (Luke 15: 11 – 32) who ran away from his father's house into some foreign land just to waste his father's money in reckless living. We, in some way, are also like the prodigal son, who ran away from His grace and focused on our reckless living. Therefore, during the retreat, we are going to trace our footprints back in which we may hope that this will lead us back to our father's home, where we will find the true happiness inside.

Last but not least is that, of course, in our journey (be it our journey of life, or our retreat journey), we will not be lonely. Just as it is depicted in the poster, the love of Jesus will be with us always. He who is patient, loving, and faithful.

Best regards,

Gibran Limi Jaya
CSA 17'th Executive Committee
Spiritual Officer
"To make our home in Jesus"

2007-10-23T02:30:00.000+08:00

Dear brothers and sisters,

Pax et Bonum!

I was browsing through one of my favorite blog, written by Cardinal Sean O'Malley, Archbishop of Boston. In one homily at the Mass for the altar server during the past week, he mentioned this beautiful quotation from St. Augustine of Hippo, "Without God, I cannot; without me, God will not." To me, this describes how important it is to work together with God.

I remember a story about a man who rows his boat in the middle of a lake. The right paddle is called "Prayer" and the left paddle is called "Work". When he rows the boat with only the right paddle or the left paddle only, he finds himself turning around an endless circle; he could not move forward. It is only when he rows the boat with both paddle that he could move forward.

It is the same as our lives. We could not have only the work life, nor could we have only the prayer life. But we need to have both. Without God, we can do nothing. But without us asking from God for every grace that we need, He will not give.

This also applies to our lives as a missionaries, ambassadors of Christ to everyone we meet. We are all sent to proclaim the good news to all people, to be the ambassadors of peace to everyone we meet. Without us, God will not do anything. You cannot say the prayer, "Thy kingdom come," without making yourself available for the missions that we are all entrusted in.

Yours faithfully in Christ,

Adhika Lie
17th ExCo
Publication Officer
"To make our home in Jesus"

2007-10-16T02:49:00.000+08:00

Dear brothers and sisters,

Pax et Bonum!

Time really flies so fast, we are only one month from exam. I asked myself some questions that I would like to share with you all. These are some of those questions.

In the midst of studying, have I really spent the time wisely? God has given me the grace of time. I have been given 24 hours a day and 60 minutes an hour; have I used my time to glorify God alone, in my study, in my daily life, in my prayer life? Or have I taken time for granted? Instead of using my time wisely, have I used my time just like the stupid man in Luke 12:13-21?

Have I made God as the center of my life and the Lord of my life? Have I put aside some of my time to really look for him? Or More often have I just said a quick prayer before I went to bed? Shouldn't I, instead of giving him a point of time when I am really tired, give him, the creator and owner of all time, the time when I am at my best? Do I look forward to weekend because of it is the time that I could meet God in the holy communion or do I look forward to weekend because that's the time when I am not supposed to be studying?

Well, perhaps it's too much to be reflected during these days when we are really busy catching up subjects, doing projects, preparing for exam but at least I believe all of us want to be a better person next semester.

The ExCo invites you to come to the CSA retreat that will be held right after the exam, 3 - 5 December 2007 at St. Theresa Church. The retreat takes the theme, "Footprints: Our way back home." Let's examine our past semester and just like the prodigal son we come up and say to the Father, "Father, I have sinned against you and against heaven; I no longer deserve to be called your son, treat me as one of your paid servants." In the end, it's our merciful Father will say, "This son of mine was dead and has come back to life; he was lost and is found!"

Yours faithfully in Christ,

Adhika Lie
17th ExCo
Publication Officer
"To make our home in Jesus"

01/10/2007

2007-10-05T01:30:00.000+08:00

Dear brothers and sisters,

Ave Maria, gratia plena! Dominus te cum!
(Hail Mary, full of Grace! The Lord is with you!)

Recess week is finally over and here we are, the beginning of the 2nd half of the term. The 2nd half begins on October 1st and coincidentally, it is the beginning of the month of Rosary. During this month we are all encouraged to pray the rosary, not only to honor Mary, but also to imitate her, which is the most important thing. Mother Mary is the first among believers and she set an example for us on how to live our faith in our lives.

From age to age, rosary has been proven to be powerful to destroy vice, decrease sins, and defeats heresies. St. Dominic, the founder of order of preacher, is very well known to defeat the heresies with the power of rosary. It is the promise of our Blessed Mother that she will help us to decrease sins. Therefore, in this very blessed month, I invite you all to spend some time to pray the rosary. Living in the campus, we have been very blessed to have the lunch time rosary held from Monday to Thursday, 1230 PM at Nanyang Auditorium. Come and spend 15 minutes of your lunch time to pray the rosary for the Church's needs, the world peace and all our needs. It is our own beloved Mother who will bring up our needs to her son, Jesus Christ. Just like the saying goes "Per Mariam ad Jesum!"
Moreover, we can also spend some time during our leisure time to read up some articles on the rosary itself. I have found this website to be very informative.

So, entering the 2nd half of the semester again, let us pray together, asking for the intercession of our Blessed Mother:

"Ora pro nobis peccatoribus nunc et in hora mortis nostrae. Amen."
(Pray for us sinners, now at the hour of our death. Amen)

Yours faithfully in Christ,

Adhika Lie
17th ExCo
Publication Officer
"To make our home in Jesus"

Moment to ponder :)

2007-09-26T02:24:00.000+08:00

Dear brothers and sisters,

Pax et Bonum!

I received this story in an email forwarded to me and I would like to share it to all. I know this story is classic and everyone knows it. But since it is recess, I think we can take a moment to stop for a while and reflect about this story. Have we done everything with the right purposes and reasons? God bless you!

"Vanity of vanities, the Preacher says. Vanity of vanities. All is vanity. For so, it is that a man who has laboured wisely, skilfully and successfully must leave what is his own to someone who has not toiled for it at all. This, too, is vanity and great injustice." (Ecclesiastes 1:2,2:21)

"Since you have been brought back to true life with Christ, you must look for the things that are in heaven, where Christ is, sitting at God's right hand. You have stripped off your old behaviour with your old self, and you have put on a new self which will progress towards true knowledge the more it is renewed in the image of its creator; and it that image there is no room for distinction... There is only Christ: he is everything and he is in everything." (Collosians 3:1.9-11)

"Watch and be on your guard against avarice of any kind, for a man's life is not made secure by what he owns, even when he has more than he needs....So it is when a man stores up treasure for himself in place of making himself rich in the sight of God." (taken from Luke 12:13-21)

An American tourist was at the pier of a small coastal Mexican village when a small boat with just one fisherman docked. Inside the small boat were several large yellow fin tuna. The tourist complimented the Mexican on the quality of his fish and asked how long it took to catch them.

The Mexican replied, "Only a little while." The tourist then asked, "Why didn't you stay out longer and catch more fish?" The Mexican said, "With this I have more than enough to support my family's needs."

The tourist then asked, "But what do you do with the rest of your time?" The Mexican fisherman said, "I sleep late, fish a little, play with my children, take siesta with my wife, Maria, stroll into the village each evening where I sip wine and play guitar with my amigos, I have a full and busy life."

The tourist scoffed, " I can help you. You should spend more time fishing; and with the proceeds, buy a bigger boat: With the proceeds from the bigger boat you could buy several boats. Eventually you would have a fleet of fishing boats. Instead of selling your catch to a middleman you would sell directly to the processor; rventually opening your own cannery. You would control the product, processing and distribution. You could leave this small coastal fishing village and move to Mexico City, then Los Angeles and eventually New York where you could run your ever-expanding enterprise."

The Mexican fisherman asked, "But, how long will this all take?" The tourist replied, "15 to 20 years." "But what then?" asked the Mexican.

The tourist laughed and said, "That's the best part. When the time is right you would sell your company stock to the public and become very rich, you would make millions." "Millions? Then what?"

The American said, "Then you would retire. Move to a small coastal fishing village where you would sleep late, fish a little, play with your kids, take siesta with your wife, stroll to the village in the evenings where you could sip wine and play your guitar with your amigos“

The Mexican fisherman replied, "Then what do you think I am doing now?"

Yours faithfully in Christ,

Adhika Lie
17th ExCo
Publication Officer
“To make our home in Jesus”

21/09/2007

2007-09-21T22:56:00.000+08:00

Brothers and Sisters,

Time flies so quickly and now, we are already in the middle of the semester. We hope that you could cope with your study although assignments, quizzes and projects deadlines are piling up. We really pray that you would persevere with the Lord. From him, we will draw our strength and we believe that after all this, we who have proved ourselves to stand firm when trials come will win the prize of life, the crown that the Lord has promised to those who love him (see James 1:12).

During the recess, there would be no our regular Wednesday and Friday Mass in campus. However, we encourage you to come to any weekday Masses in your parishes especially when we are celebrating so many feasts during the recess week: St. Cosmas and Damian, St. Vincent de Paul, Feasts of the Archangels St Michael, St. Gabriel and St. Raphael. It is our pride of us being Catholic to have the communion of saints to pray with us and for us.

Last but not least, the 17th ExCo would like to encourage us all to come and visit the blog and drop a comment or just say a "hi!" to all there. Together, let us make our home in Jesus, being united as one family in faith, hope and love. The grace and peace of the Lord Jesus Christ be with you always!

Yours faithfully in Christ,

Naomi Pratiwi
17th ExCo
Honorary General Secretary
"To make our home in Jesus"

19/09/2007

2007-09-20T02:35:00.000+08:00

Brothers and Sisters,

Pax et Bonum!

We have just launched our theme for this whole year: “To make our home in Jesus.” It is indeed a very beautiful theme that speaks about a family, a home in Jesus. The word home reflects the peace, love, warmth, unity and growth of a family. On top of that, our home is in Jesus, our Lord and Father who never fails to shower us with his love and blessings.

Let us all pray that this theme would be reflected in CSA. We pray that CSA would be a place where all people can call it a home, a loving family bonded in Jesus Christ himself. And it is our hope that our lives are changed and grow in this spirit of family in Christ.

Today, we have celebrated the Mass for Ministries. I am personally so glad that many of you have offered your hands to be the hand of the Lord. Let us pray that God will bless our intention to serve and take the control of our service. If any of you are still interested in joining any of the ministries, just contact the officer. The contacts can be found in the link aboutcsa above.

In the upcoming week ahead, there are so many feasts we would encounter: St. Matthew (21/09), St. (Padre) Pio da Pietrelcina (23/09), St. Cosmas and Damian (26/09). There will be a special link to the information of the saints on the right column updated accordingly. So, come and visit the website regularly. Together in the prayer of the Saints, I wish you a very blessed week ahead!

Yours in Christ,

Adhika Lie
17th ExCo
Publication Officer
“To make our home in Jesus”

CPG

2007-09-20T02:23:00.001+08:00

Vision: to be a renewal FLAME in CSA
Mission:
- to be a renewal Faithful worshiper of God in CSA
- to be a renewal Loving family in Christ in CSA
- to be a renewal Anointed disciples of Christ in CSA
- to be a renewal Messenger of the good news in CSA
- to be a renewal Empowered servant of God in CSA

FLAME is a symbol of the Holy Spirit in the Pentecost day. Charismatic Prayer Group exists as a small community under CSA through which all of us are formed to be more open to the working of the Holy Spirit in our daily activities, including study and ministries. It's a community that seeks a deeper relationship with God through prayer, the Sacraments, service, community life and word of God. In other words, we want to invite all CSA members to be the FLAME of Christ our God and we facilitate one another to grow together to a deeper relationship with God.

Prayer meeting
We have prayer meeting conducted every week. Started with praising and worshiping God as our form of thankfulness and admitting His presence in the midst of us, prayer meeting is then continued with a testimonies time where one can step up to share one’s experience about faith to strengthen each other. After that we will be having a teaching session aimed to enhance our knowledge about our faith and our God. Form of fellowship is realized at the end of prayer meeting where each member can know each other more and strengthen our bonding as one family, one church. Prayer meeting is held every Tuesday 7.30pm at Nanyang House Seminar Room 2, contact ucup(81820235)

Intercessory Prayer Group (IPG)
IPG is another session that we have in every week. As children of God, we believe in the power of prayer. Thus, through this IPG we gather and pray for the intention of our brothers and sisters. A lot of prayer had been answered and a lot of miracles happened through the power of prayer. If any of you need any intention to be prayed, you can send it through the website www.ntucsacharismatic.org or just contact john (98624119).

Life in the Spirit Camp (LISC)
LISC is one of our main events. It is held every year in the form of retreat. Through this event, we would like to invite every member of CSA to spare a couple of days just for God. In LISC every participant is facilitate to deepen their relationship with God in a very personal way. You may see the testimony of LISC participants in the website.

Ucup
17th ExCo
CPG Representative
"To make our home in Jesus"

Spiritual Ministry

2007-09-20T02:21:00.000+08:00

VISION:
To build a community, in this case CSA, where God is present in all aspects of our everyday life, especially the life of a student.

Mission:
• To care for the spirituality of the members of CSA
• To care for the spirituality of the executive committee members of CSA

Is spirituality an aspect of our life? Instead of an aspect, I would rather say that it is something that should be present in all aspects of our life. As a student in NTU, we are usually too much engrossed in our hectic daily activities. We become unaware of the actual presence of God in what we do, when He should be present anywhere and anytime. What is the effect? One example of the effects is we are getting more and more ambitious in what we do without remembering why we did it in the first place or maybe, in contrast to being ambitious, be discouraged. Therefore, we need a time to sit down, escaping from the hecticness of our life, just to reflect on ourselves or to hear what the other says so that we may improve ourselves or restore the saneness of our mind. This is the vision of this year's spiritual ministry elaborated.

Spiritual ministry's activities will include the RCIA and the organizing of spiritual sessions for the CSA members, such as talks, prayer ala taize, etc. Members of the ministry will be required to help in the RCIA sessions, as sponsors or observers, or prepare sessions as mentioned above, or both. Continuous contact between the members of the ministry is also required as we are one team that share the same boat, heading towards the same direction, for CSA, for the glory of God.

In Christ,
Gibran Limi Jaya
CSA 17'th Exco
Spiritual Officer
"To make our home in Jesus"

Publicity

2007-09-20T02:19:00.000+08:00

The publicity ministry, which serves to enhance the relationship of CSA in public, aims to be creative in every aspect of our work. We are in need of creative and artistic talents. To be part of this ministry, you need to have a strong interest in the fields that are associated with designing and originality. The ministry main job scope is to handle the creation of Miracle, banners and posters. We also welcome people to join us in taking pictures for all the events. Writers and journalist wannabe are also welcome to join us in writing for the weekly miracles. So do not hesitate and let your words and creativity touch the hearts of everyone around you!

Alex
17th ExCo
Publicity Officer
"To make our home in Jesus"

Publication Ministry

2007-09-20T02:09:00.000+08:00

Publication Ministry serves the community through the media. The publication ministry takes care of the Canticle and the CSA website. We believe that through this media, we can be God's instrument to proclaim the good news to all people. To be part of this ministry, although computing skills like Adobe Photoshop, Flash, HTML, etc may be very advantageous, but the desire and thirst to serve God (in this ministry) is the most important as we let the Holy Spirit to guide us and lead us.

1. Website
The website would be updated on a regular basis. There is a need to "equip" the website with updated articles and events and information, therefore those involved in this ministry need to update the website on regular basis. Moreover, enhancing the website with a better look such as by utilizing the flash presentation for the pictures and animations for various announcement is also needed.

2. Canticle
The aim is to make Canticle to be a more appealing magazine to the youth in CSA family. Those involved in this ministry will help to make the canticle to be an enriching and entertaining reading. We will need columnists, editors, layouters and many writers to "face-lift" the canticle.

In Christ,

Adhika Lie
17th ExCo
Publication Officer
"To make our home in Jesus"

Music Ministry

2007-09-20T02:07:00.001+08:00

Music Ministry ( aka. Musmin) is a place where people come and share the same passion: singing in praise and thanksgiving to God. To quote St. Augustine, "To sing is to pray twice", each song we sing contributes greatly to the prayers of the community, as well as to our own spiritual growth. The Musmin provides a platform for the talented to use their gifts to serve the community through exciting activities such as Xmas Caroling, Musmin workshops and our own musical. Most importantly Musmin is also a family, where we appreciate each other's love, bonding and sharing amongst us.

No music background is needed. No talent is needed. A heart for God, a passion for music, a willingness for service, a cheerful spirit to sing with mind and soul and you can be apart of us.

Core activities:

 Practicing and singing for Wednesday Mass (and probably for Friday Mass also)
 Christmas Caroling
 Music Workshop for members
 Joint University Mass
 Musical

Focus for this year:

Focusing more on the spirituality of singing, and keep encouraging each member to develop their talents through practices and training.
Building a strong bonding among Musmin
Attracting more talented people to join and trying to retain them with love and patience.

Klein
17th ExCo
Music Officer
"To make our home in Jesus"

Mass Ministry

2007-09-20T02:06:00.000+08:00

Mass is the summit of our worship as Catholics. Not only it signifies our communion with God but also the unity the community. For this very reason, a warm environment that welcomes people to this celebration is crucial; and a proper understanding and appreciation of Liturgy, which means public worship, is an essential part of our spiritual exercise.

Mass Ministry serves the community by providing and creating a conducive environment for Mass that makes people feel welcomed and comfortable during Mass, and fostering spiritual growth through a deeper appreciation and understanding of the liturgy.

In the mean time, the subcoms needed are lectors. Training and regular meeting will be conducted for the Mass Ministry Subcommittee members, so that the subcoms not only serve the community by proclaiming the Scripture but also able to be nourished through reflection and sharing based on the Scripture.

Bobby
17th ExCo
Mass Officer
"To make our home in Jesus"

ACTS Ministry

2007-09-20T02:02:00.000+08:00

Mission of ACTS is to create a path connecting the desire to keep our catholic faith as an integral part of our lives and relax and have a good time during the study in NTU. ACTS is a ministry created so that we can come together every week to share our faith, our ideas, and our lives as Catholics at NTU in small groups so we can strengthen our bonds and find a group of fellow students closest to our hearts.

Job Scope for ACTS leaders
1) Conduct the weekly ACTS meetings.
-Facilitate discussion -Provoke thoughts
-Find a suitable time and place to conduct the meetings
-Communicate with the group members so to make sure they attend regularly
-Join the ACTS formation (if necessary, will be decided based on the view of ACTS officer and the ACTS leaders after Sub Com recruitments)

2) Be a shinning light that brighten up the lives of others

Nirmalee
17th ExCo
ACTS Officer
"To make our home in Jesus"

ExCo Commissioning

2007-09-13T22:48:00.000+08:00

Brothers and Sisters,

Pax et Bonum!

Today, the 17th ExCo are commissioned. Like the disciples of Jesus, we are sent to proclaim the Kingdom of God. In this journey, like the disciples, we are asked not to worry about anything but to trust in God’s providence alone (Mat 10:5-15). The disciples were not those gifted people, neither are we. But yet God still worked marvelously. We also do believe, He still continues his marvelous work in our lives today.

In carrying out our mission to serve God in the NTU CSA community, we humbly ask all of you to continue praying for us. We, too, are mere human beings with our weaknesses. And to carry this mission, the strength that could only be provided by the power of prayer is absolutely needed. Let’s pray together for NTU CSA, for Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as in heaven (Mat 6:10).

Next week, we are going to celebrate the Mass for Ministries. It will be the Mass for our various vocations in CSA. All of us are called to serve the Lord in various ways. Be it in the music ministry, in the publication and publicity ministry, in the ACTS ministry, in the Mass ministry, Spiritual ministry or even in the Special Project ministry, we can touch people’s heart with the love of God. In various ways, through the media, singing or the fellowship and activities we have, we can proclaim the Kingdom of God.

During this week, we ask you all to discern your vocation in CSA. We will pray together with you in your discernment. Next week, we will offer up all of our thoughts and intention to serve Him together in the Holy Eucharist.

If you have any doubts or concerns, do not hesitate to contact any of the ExCo.

“Seek ye first the kingdom of God and its righteousness and the other things shall be added unto you” (Mat 6:33) So, fear not and have a blessed week ahead!

Yours in Christ,

Adhika Lie
17th ExCo
Publication Officer

Archdiocesan Youth Day 2007

2007-05-07T23:13:00.000+08:00

Hi everybody, it's been a quite some time ago since the blog had new posting. Exam has finished and holiday is coming. Opss......not quite a holiday, second year students still have projects, some fyp students still have to do their fyp presentation, and IAers still have 5 weeks to go. First year students!!!! Have a nice holiday! Hmm, oh yeah, the graduate students or maybe working people won't have holiday, at least for the coming 3 months. God bless us all :).

Hmm, there is an event that will be held this July, it is the Archdiocesan Youth Day 2007. They are currently looking for facilitators to facilitate the youths on that day. Maybe later you'll need to facilitate a group throughout the event, maybe through some sharing or games. I am not so sure about the exact activities. And it is always a very rewarding experience, trust me, I have done several facilitating. When you give, you'll receive hundredfolds :).

If you are interested to be one and curious for some other information, please contact Hendri Harmoko in 90690894. Just drop him an sms or a call.

The detail of the event itself is as follows:

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Archdiocesan Youth Day 2007

The Youth Ministry Office (YMO) is organizing an Archdiocesan Youth Day on Saturday 7th July 2007. This is for all youth of the Archdiocese who will be confirmed between July 2007 and June 2008.

1. Objective
Give confirmation youths a sense of the larger Church and excite them about being involved in parish life
Provide opportunity for parish youth groups to work together and outreach to confirmation classes
Allow youths across the Archdiocese to network and work together on one event

2. Target Audience
The Youth Day is primarily for youths in their Confirmation year (the “Confirmands”). Parishes that have had their confirmation before July 2007 are to send their next batch of students. Attendance is mandatory. They are to participate fully in the day’s programme from 12 noon to 10pm.

Parish youth groups will play an active role in the running of the Youth Day. Other youths who are not Confirmands and are not helping to run the Youth Day are invited to join the night programme from 6pm to 10pm.

3. Programme Overview
The Youth Day consists of two segments:
12 – 5pm Parish Segment at the respective parishes
6 – 10pm Rally Segment at the Singapore Expo

Parish Segment – only for Confirmands (note that following timings are to be adjusted according to arrival time at Expo 5.30pm)
12.00 noon Registration
12.30pm Welcome & Introductions
12.45pm Games + Warm up
1.15pm Worship
1.45pm Workshop
3.45pm Gather
3.55pm Wrapping up
4.15pm WYD Video
4.30pm Logistical briefing for Expo
4.45pm Dinner
5.15pm At parishes: Loading & Departure for Singapore Expo
At Expo: Registration of arriving parishes & Music

Rally Segment
5.30pm Registration begins
6.00pm Registration ends
6.45pm Rally begins; Highlights: “Jonah & Big Fish” by Hanoj & For Heaven’s Sake productions; Live Band; Special overseas guest speaker
9.30pm Rally ends + Departure

5. Training for youth facilitators
12 May Saturday 2-5pm – Session 1 (repeat)
19 May Saturday 2-5pm – Session 1 (repeat)
23 June Saturday 2-5pm – Session 2
30 June Saturday 2-5pm – Session 2 (repeat)

Parishes are to make arrangements for youth facilitators to come for training together.

6. Cost of ticket for Rally Segment
$10 – Confirmands, youth facilitators, workshop moderators, catechists, band, games facilitators
$15 – Other youths (aged 18 and below), just for Rally Segment
$30 – Other adults (aged 19 and above), just for Rally Segment

7. Publicity
Publicity materials about the Youth Day will be provided by YMO. Parish youth groups are encouraged to organize their own publicity campaigns.

8. Transportation to and from Expo
Each parish will arrange its own transportation (e.g. chartered buses). Please advise CAYC on the number of buses. CAYC will advise on arrival time for each parish.

9. Coordination of time of arrival
Registration at Expo is from 5.30 pm to 6.00 pm. Parishes need to shift the Parish Segment times accordingly (factoring travel time).

10. Parental consent
Parishes are to obtain consent from parents and guardians of Confirmands to participate in this Youth Day.

11. Queries
Any queries regarding the Archdiocesan Youth Day should be addressed to Mrs Winnie Choo at Tel No. 98299354 or to Edwyn, Stella or Daryl (YMO Staff) at Tel No. 62852571

Fr Frederick Quek
Coordinating Youth Chaplain
Youth Ministry Office

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Best regards,
Gibran Limi Jaya

~LUBtHOG

Choice (not referring to the weekend)

2007-03-27T19:17:00.000+08:00

Just last Friday until Sunday, I was attending the Choice weekend. I was actually kinda expecting it, but worries because of the piling lecture notes, assignments, and a lot of other activities made me felt really lazy to go. However, attending it was rewarding, just like what it is used to be when I happen to choose a wise choice but with some sacrifices, as always.

What are the most important things in your life? I guess most of us have attempted to answer this question but maybe left it unanswered (or blurry answered). Choice (but I don’t want to say ‘only’ Choice) helped me to wipe the always blur spectacle that I wear. At least it is not as blur as before. With the small spaces provided, I will share with you one or two things I found in the retreat that have left me some impressions.

“Who am I?” is the question “What are the most important things in your life?” translated deeper. A more personal one with the identity of ‘I’ more strongly embedded in it. I am a person full of lacking. I can’t do this, I can’t do that. Then, while looking at the others so successful in their achievements, I feel sorry for myself. There is this feeling of inferiority. It makes me struggle and sometimes envy my friends, even the closest one. Then, I learned that I have to strive, to be harder in working, studying, etc to achieve the feeling of self-fulfillment. I began to redistribute my time, sometimes in wails because of un-satisfactions, sometimes in hard work, sometimes in the mask that I created to hide, but forgetting the others, friends, family, and God. I need achievements. “You have to work hard to achieve your goal,” remembering what my parents always said (I think that parents’ advice are not necessarily correct for all circumstances). But in the end, I feel like I have lost something. Have I achieved what I wanted? Between yes and no, I guess. Something more and more can be done. Something and it never ends. There is a hole inside my heart, sucking all….. And I ended up working even harder for the seemingly unending goals.

Have you felt like that before? Maybe yes, but I hope not. I was told that the question “Who am I?” is a wrong question. It is imperfect. Quoting a passage in a session in the Choice weekend, self discovery cannot be accomplished by a person in isolation, as if a person were an island unto himself or herself. Balanced view of ourselves comes from belonging to others and allowing them to become significant to us. Then, the correct question is “To whom do I belong to?” Maybe unknowing this is what makes us feel unsatisfied all the time. Belonging lies in the others, communities, friends, family, and in God. It is a feeling of acceptance, something that we can rely on, and the feeling of being loved and loving; and we need them permanent, unceasing.

As we are walking in this Lenten journey, let us reflect on ourselves. Have we been so much ambitious that we sacrifices the others, communities, friends, family, God, and in the end, ourselves? Ambition is not necessarily bad, but management of ambition is needed. It was that God created human not only himself, but with a partner and children by his side.
God Bless

Reconcile Our Relationship with God

2007-03-18T01:05:00.000+08:00

As we are entering the 4th week of Lent, have you prepared yourself for Easter? Is there any improvement that we make during this Lent period? Have you tried your best to be a good child of God? Do you try to spend more time with Him in the midst of your business during this period?

Easter is a glorious occasion where we celebrate Jesus' everlasting love for us through His death on the cross and His resurrection. Jesus died because of our sins and He wants to cleanse us from sin. But, as a human being, we are so weak and easily tempted to do sins. Many times, consciously or unconsciously, we go against His will. Every time we sin, we lash Jesus' body and nail Him and put ourselves further and further from Him. But Jesus will always be there waiting for us to come back to Him and He is ready to embrace us with his everlasting love, just as the father who welcomes back the prodigal son.

That's why we need to reconcile our relationship with God through the sacrament of reconciliation. We might think that confessing our sins in our personal prayer is enough, but actually it is not. We need to receive the sacrament of reconciliation because it is the 'special celebration' where God welcomes us, His children, that choose to come back to His side.

During the confession, the priest is sitting in the name of Christ, thus when he says "...I absolve you,.." it is actually God himself that forgives us. Every sin, even the most private and personal sin, has implications to the larger community around us, thus there is no such things as a private sins.

When we confess our sin, the most crucial part is when we examine our conscience. That is the moment when we reflect and recall things that we have done against God's will. For this part, I suggest that you read the list of questions for the examination of conscience that may help your personal reflection (usually contained in the later part of the Novena book).

After we reconcile ourselves with God, we are ready to welcome the Easter as a new person who leave our past sins behind. Hopefully before this Easter all of us have come home as his children who have wholeheartedly said the act of contrition:

"O my God, I am heartily sorry for having offended You,
and I detest all my sins, because they deserve your just punishment.
But most of all, because they offend You, my God, who are all good
and deserving of all my love. I firmly resolve, with the help of Your grace,
to confess my sins, to do penance, and to amend my life. Amen."

God Bless,

Randy Williams

Catholic Students' Apostolate Construction Phase #2 - Food on Foot!

2007-02-06T18:02:00.000+08:00

Date & Time: 26th February 2006 (Mon of recess break) 1030AM
Meeting Place: Marina Bay MRT station

Come Join Us for a day of FUN under the SUN! :D We're gonna go around Singapore on our very own FOOD RACE :) Visiting so many different food places in Singapore, tasting the different kinds of good and tasty food and having so much FUN with your friends at the same time.. yum yum! How else better to spend the first day of your holidays? :D

So don't hesitate! SIGN UP TODAY! :) I guarantee it'll be an experience you WILL NOT forget ;)

Yep! Please let any of the exco members or myself know if you wanna come :) SEE YOU THERE! :D

What do these phrases have in common?

2007-01-17T11:10:00.000+08:00

Open Doors... Nuts About You... See No Evil, Hear No Evil, Speak No Evil... A Sprinkle of Salt...

Yes, many of you may have guessed it already... they're the themes of the Freshmen Orientation Camp for the past four years! The FOC is a regular fixture in our CSA timetable, the opportunity for us as community to come together and welcome a whole new batch of brothers and sisters.

This year, 2007, what will our theme be? Well, that could be up to you to decide! Become a part of the new FOC committee by contacting Ashley or any member of the 16th Ex-Co! Be one of the first to welcome the new freshmen to our family of faith here in NTU and show them how they can have fun and grow in their faith at the same time.

If you want to serve CSA in that special way, in being a part of the Mystery, Communion and Mission of the Catholic Church, then consider joining the FOC comm.

A Prayer of Blessing

2007-01-01T12:49:00.000+08:00

Number 6:24-26
The LORD bless you and keep you!
The LORD let his face to shine upon you, and be gracious to you!
The LORD look upon you kindly and give you peace!

This is a very beautiful prayer of blessing that was taught by God via Moses to Aaron for the people of Israel that was in their pilgrimage in the desert. The people of Israel are afraid of their unknown future in the desert. But, God says to them via this prayer that He will be with them always. He will bless and keep them, He will let His face to shine upon them and be gracious to them, He will look upon them kindly and give them peace.

So, God is with us always forever and ever, don't be afraid no matter how hard or how easy our life or what we do, or etc. How do you think to believe this? I leave this up as an open question but not for an answer ^^, coz the answer lies in our hearts, I believe.

for more, see http://www.wau.org/meditations/meditations.asp?month=1&day=1&year=2007&x=0&y=0

!!!Merry Christmas!!!

2006-12-30T22:57:00.000+08:00

Hey hey!!! 1st! Merry Christmas to all of you!
Tomorrow's the last day of the year already! Any new year resolutions yet?
Just wanna share with you all...
That day, when I was checking my results... As the usual, I'll be all shaky over while clicking on that "important" button~ The last sem, I totally don't have any confidence at all... Through out the holidays, I've been praying for my exams... I really hope that everything can go well for exams... Even before I clicked, I prayed, please... My exams RESULTS!!! ARRRGGGHHH!!!
Then I went blank for a moment before clicking... When I finally saw my results, not only I felt myself being relieved(though still shaky), I felt what I'd learnt in the retreat coming on true...

I went for the Tri-Varsity Retreat for the 1st time. Usually, I seldom go for retreats because I'm not a person who can meditate for a long time... Though, I got to know friends, felt warmth also... But never the feeling that GOD's always with me... Okiez... At times only... But after that 3 days... & my exam results, I feel that GOD hears my whatever troubles I have... I don't need to voice it out... Voicing it out only makes me sure that GOD's listening to me... But this time... That moment of blankness came to me that... God knows what I want! Though I cannot say my grades are good, but... HE'S THERE!!!

Believe in HIM!!!

Belated Merry Christmas & advanced Happy New Year!!!
Cya all soon looooO~~~~~~

A little sharing on meditation...

2006-12-14T01:45:00.000+08:00

Hey everyone. Hope everyone's enjoying their well-deserved break right about now. Anyway, I've decided to post a little sharing about my experience during a recent meditation session I had with my parish lectors ministry. It was a wonderfully peaceful experience and I thought I'd share it with you and introduce a new form of prayer that I've come to know of recently. Here goes:

meditation: deluge of thoughts

on tuesday, i had my monthly meditation session with the olps lectors. after a long day in school and hanging out with the freshies, so it was no surprise when i trudged into st mark's room at 8.20pm after cabbing down from town pretty darn tired. i even fell asleep in the cab just before i reached the church. even joe remarked that i was tired after the meditation was all done.

joe started with a few exercises, asking us to recall a person or persons who had given us love before and relive an experience in our minds. after that, we went into breathing exercises, where we regulated our diaphragmatic breathing in line with the word 'maranatha', which means 'the Lord has come'. surprisingly, it was quite an exertion, due to the variation of speeds to our breathing. my nostrils were burning and my chest felt noticeably strained, but otherwise i felt completely at ease and relaxed. what happened next is beyond me, but the feeling of it was extremely powerful and has been firmly etched in my mind.

joe then led us into a series of mental exercises. the strangest thing was that my head started to tilt up towards the ceiling, and at that moment, joe mentioned something along the line of the light of christ. and there, through the skin of my eyelids, was the light emanating from the ceiling lights. yet somehow, it felt brighter and whiter than one would expect. it felt like the light had completely penetrated and passed through my eyelids, and i became fixated on this light completely. i followed joe's instructions for a little while more, feeling the light run through my body and trying to view myself from outside my body before i lapsed into my own path. the strangest thing was that i could hear joe's voice, yet my consciousness was floating around and not deciphering what he was saying. i felt light and weightless, like i was floating on air, like a flower petal on a vast lake. i was fully awake, yet i was oblivious to my physical surroundings. my thoughts took on a natural state of flux and i just drifted between thoughts and memories, remembering none in particular but knowing i had visited a few regions of my mind. i felt energized as i moved from fluid thought to thought.

as the session drew to a close, i somehow managed to pick up joe talking about Christ, "who died on the cross out of love for us" as well as his instruction to slowly count to 10 and come out of the meditative state.

it felt like the whole thing lasted 5-10 minutes, but joe told us we had been like that for around 30 minutes.

considering i've fallen asleep on the past few attempts, this experience really had me excited. in a sense, i felt so awake, so aware of myself, yet i was asleep and oblivious to the world around me. thoughts just poured forth like a spring in a natural flow and fluidity. and it has me wanting to experience that calm once more.

Prayer for our persecuted Brothers and Sisters

2006-11-29T20:45:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

Just want to share something that I found.
This prayer is taken from www.wau.org, their daily meditation of 29'Th November 2006. It is a beautiful prayer in intercession for the people who are being persecuted.

"Father, we come before you in intercession for our brothers and sisters in Christ who are being persecuted in distant countries and right in our own neighborhoods. You know each of them by name! We cry out to you for those whose voices have become weak or silent. You are their hope of protection and salvation. Come and rescue all who suffer for the sake of your name. You are the refuge for those who have been cast down. Come and let the warmth of your love enkindle the fire of faith and steadfast hope in them!

Jesus, you never once grasped for recognition. Instead, you humbled yourself to the point of death on the cross. Pour your divine humility into the hearts of our persecuted brothers and sisters. In the midst of their trials, fill them with the joy of being formed into your image. Let your life in them shine as a witness. As they decrease, come and increase in them! Part the heavens and let them see you standing at the right hand of the Father!

Lord, we pray that your precious blood will fall upon your people and dissolve any hatred they may feel toward their persecutors. By your Holy Spirit, may the mercy of God well up in their hearts so that, in the face of such mercy, their persecutors might turn to you in repentance. May they see that it is you, the Son of God, whom they are persecuting. Jesus, let your mercy triumph!

Holy Spirit, rain down your wisdom and boldness to empower our brothers and sisters to proclaim the truth of the gospel clearly and fearlessly. May your words be firmly planted in them so that they will know how to respond to their persecutors. Fill them with the resolve to cling to you and you alone. Remind them that they are not alone, for you remain closer than a brother at every moment. Let the love of the Father and Son overshadow them. Set them free from fear and keep their hearts lifted high."

Not a hair of your head will perish. (Luke 21:18)

Exams are over.... for some...

2006-11-25T11:56:00.000+08:00

Congratulations to those who are done with their exams... *glares at Fiana and Sarah*

For those, like me, who still have a couple of papers left to go, ganbatte! Trust in the Lord God, our Rock and our Redeemer.

Psalm 144
Blessed be the LORD, my rock,
who trains my hands for battle, my fingers for war.
My mercy and my fortress,
my stronghold, my deliverer,
My shield, in whom I trust,
who subdues my people under me.
O God, I will sing a new song to you;
with a ten.stringed lyre I will chant your praise,
You who give victory to kings,
and deliver David, your servant from the evil sword.

Not to be Exam Minded in the Exam Period

2006-11-16T00:41:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

It is the second day of the exam when I wrote this.
How is it your first day of exam? Or maybe how is your exam days (if you read this at a later time)? Busy preparing the upcoming exam/s? Is it boring or are you actually enjoying it? Feeling nervous?
How is your exam also, if you have attended an exam or more? Dissapointing or satisfactory?

Dear friends, in this exam period, I believe that all of us are busy preparing the exam. Study!!Study!!Study!! Yep, we need the spirit!! Never lose heart in studying!! Pray a lot for the exam!! In the end, if our result is good, we will be happy and also that our future will be more guaranteed =p. Then, putting out a lot of effort will be a real worth.
But, how if the result does not meet our expectation.... Yeah....What can we do? Nothing will change the result. As long as we have given our best, I believe that God will bless it. What if we did not give our best......That's......Let's try our best next time =) + pray so that we are forgiven for our lack of effort. We also have to forgive ourself, too, and not to be too dissapointed with ourselves. There are still other chances.

Hey, I went out of the topic that I would like to write, hahaha. Let's get back to the track =p.
Dear friends, actually, how important do you think that our exam is?
Woaaah, do I ask a silly question? It is certainly very important!!
Then, I'd ask, how is that very important =p, haha.
Oh, sooooo important that I cannot live without it.......errrrrr, it is not as exteme as this right? Hahaha.
Yes, exam is very important, yet, I believe, there are still other things that are also important.

One of my friends told me that he does not want to be exam minded during the exam period. Even though he is studying, he does not want to forget other things that are also important. What does he mean?
Hmm, maybe he does not want to be soooooo fierce while he is preparing for his exam. If a friend asked him a favor, he does not want to just say "sorry, I am busy" and regret that actually his friend really needs his help.
Maybe he does not want to lose the good habit that he has during non-exam period, such as sleeping at 12pm and wake up at 7am every day to maintain a good healthy body (for me, sometimes, I sleep accidentally and make my sleeping time really uncontrollable >.<).
Or maybe to play sport games so that he still have a good exercise during his exam period.
Or maybe to be still reading newspaper.
Or maybe to be still able to pray or read bible amidst the business of exam preparation.

Yeah, I guess, even though it is exam period, it does not mean that "exam is my life", hahaha. So, how are you doing your days in this exam period? Wish you all the best, okay? Wish you all also so that you can enjoy your exam period =)

Yup, the end of my writing. Is it useful? Is it understandable >.<, hehe? Is there anything that you'd like to share? Is there anything wrong with my writing >.< ?
Please give comments if you would like to. Thank you! and God bless!

In Christ,
Gibran

~Let Us Build the House of God~
P.S.: During the Christmas party, the excos would like to do a performance =p, watch us

How do I see exams?

2006-11-08T22:25:00.000+08:00

Exams are coming!!!! Stressful period...well for most of people.....but not for those who go thru this with God and His mighty name

I dunno lately I pray, read bible, n listen to God more regularly since my activities are less rite now (only study, lesson, take a bath, eating, n sleep). I've been telling God that I'm tired and afraid of the exams....and in the same time, I ask for His help ("God gives me strength, time" or "God let Ur Holy Spirit refresh my mind")...Well it works

When I planned my exam preparation for the 1st time, I knew that I wudnt have enough time n then, I decided to sacrifice one of my exam (PE subject). But it's like God really gives me time...even now I'm preparing for the PE subject n I can take next Saturday as my day off (means I wont study at all)

Then strength, I know that I wont be able to do this everyday, study until 3 am n sleep for only 6 hours (this time sche I hav planned earlier). But however, I hav enough strength evryday to do the same thing (lesson 930 onwards, back 330 onwards, nap 1.5 hours, study, eat, study till 3 am)

Then about my anxiety, He assures me in His answer that all i need to do is doing my best in whichever way i can n the rest He will take over Himself. He's told me in my prayer that at the end, whoever works in His name will be triumphant..So y, in my study, I always ask for His guidance beforehand to enable me study in His name..Well, I admit I still hav anxiety inside but it's getting less day by day

So, I encourage all of u to go thru this in His name n we will be thriumphant together on the day itself n dun forget to pray faithfully

Finally, may God's blessing always be with all of u

"God never requires us to be successful, He just wants us to be faithful"
Mother Theresa

Updates on Christmas Party!

2006-10-30T00:54:00.000+08:00

Hi all CSA sisters and brothers :)
I'm glad to announce the details of our Christmas Party...

Date: 3rd Dec 2006, Sunday
Time: 6pm-11pm
Place: NTU Alumni Club (near Buona Vista MRT.. Walking distance)
Theme: Starry Starry Night
Dress code: Smart Casual, with something that has a star on it. It can be an accessory, a temporary (or permanent if u'd like) tattoo, a badge...etc. :)

Actually, we had a few suggestions for themes such as the following:
1) Mexican Fiesta
2) Retro
3) Nightmare before Christmas
4) Something about snow...

But after thinking and discussing about it, the SP subcomm decided that it was more appropriate to have our current theme "Starry starry night"... in relation to the star that led the shepherds to the stable where our Saviour Jesus Christ was born. :)

Well now that the technical details are over and done with =X we can get down to the fun part.. the planning of our activities! =D and you, yes YOU, can have a hand in this as well =D

So far we've come up with ideas such as limbo rock, obstacle course (don't worry it's not those v exhausting kinds we see at FOC.. just we haven't come up w an appropriate name for it.. just have to do certain stuff while holding spaghetti or something with a partner =P), and another game where we stick words on each others forehead.. then we try to make each other say that word on our own foreheads. Whoever says the word on their own foreheads will have to forfeit. =P Do you guys have any suggestions for more activities? =) Mayb games for grps of.. urm.. 2o people? =)

Well.. what do you guys think of our planning so far? =) Give your comments ya.. and pls contribute ideas for the activities if u all have any ok? =D Here is where u can voice our any thoughts (good or bad >.<) as well as suggestions.. and we really appreciate your comments! =)

So... I really hope u guys will come n support our christmas party :) and that u guys will have a smashin' good time that night as well! =D

Thanks!! =D

Cheers,
Cheryl Seow
~ Let us Build the House of God~

Prayer of St. Francis

2006-10-25T23:19:00.000+08:00

Nooooooo~~~~~~!!!!!

It's not the song :p

I just want to share the first time I know this prayer.
It wasnt from a song, or church, or mass, or anything related to christianity..
Back when I was in my first year of high school.. I wasnt catholic that time....my classmates and I, we watched a lot of chinese/Taiwan series (i remember, during that period, F4 from Taiwan was born :p). everytime one of my friend watch new series, he/she will discuss it in class..those who havent watch it, they will search for the vcd or borrow or anything, so they can watch and after one month, all students in my class know the story .. hahahahah.. actually, i dun like watching those kind of movies, but everyone was talking about it, so I HAVE TO know :p
anyway, it's just an intro...sorry...bad habit..i always start my story with longgg intro :p

so, there was this movie, the title was "Kabut Cinta" in Indonesia..in english will be...hmmmm "Love Mist"??????? i dunno hahahahaha.. can someone tell me what's the title in english?

there was one character,a girl, she often go to church and pray this prayer. that time, i didnt know the english version, since it was chinese movie, i just read the substitle. it went like this:

TUHAN, jadikanlah aku pembawa DAMAI.
Bila terjadi kebencian, jadikanlah aku pembawa cinta kasih.
Bila terjadi penghinaan, jadikanlah aku pembawa pengampunan.
Bila terjadi perselisihan, jadikanlah aku pembawa kerukunan.
Bila terjadi kesesatan, jadikanlah aku pembawa kebenaran.
Bila terjadi kebimbangan, jadikanlah aku pembawa kepastian.
Bila terjadi keputus-asaan, jadikanlah aku pembawa harapan.
Bila terjadi kegelapan, jadikanlah aku pembawa terang.
Bila terjadi kesedihan, jadikanlah aku pembawa sukacita.

In english, the prayer will be:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace.
Where there is hatred, let me sow love;
where there is injury,pardon;
where there is doubt, faith;
where there is despair, hope;
where there is darkness, light;
and where there is sadness, joy.
O Divine Master, grant that I may not so much seek to be consoled as to console;
to be understood as to understand;to be loved as to love.
For it is in giving that we receive;it is in pardoning that we are pardoned;
and it is in dying that we are born to eternal life. Amen

that time, my friend who has watched the movie, asked me to take note of the prayer, cos she said, it was very good (she was a catholic). so i did. and it was very good. when the first time i heard it, i didnt have time to take note.. i was touched, stunned.. it was such a selfless prayer.. like we're not thinking of ourselves at all..it's all for everyone else, for the world, for God.. sooo touchingggg........

that moment i decided.. it is indeed, what i want to be.. to be a bringer of love when there is hatred, to be bring joy to those in sadness, to be the peace of Christ in this world..but it's soooooooo difficult to be done...

then i start to forget about it.. about the prayer..

then i found it in our mass song book (like Breaking Bread in Singapore).. then i start to pray it.. then i forget about it again...><

then i came to ntu...

then i was introduced to this song Prayer of St Francis (Thanks to Anita!!)

then i know for sure, I wont forget about this prayer again...

yess
~Lord make me, an instrument of Thy peace~

Recalling “Let Us Build the House of God”

2006-10-25T22:30:00.000+08:00

It has been about 2 months since the 15^th exco passing over to the 16^th exco. It is relatively a short period but nonetheless we have experienced so many things. Investiture, Activity Day I, workshops, census, and of course not forgetting all the weekly activities. And now that we have reached the end of the first semester, let us take a brief moment and reflect on what we have gone through together.

Let us recall our theme, “Let Us Build the House of God”. What is the “House of God”? Let us now see this in different perspectives. Personally, I think the “House of God” includes everyone of us. Each of us is the houses of God, the place where God can dwell and reign. Jesus has been more than willing to live in us. It is just a matter whether we want to build ourselves spiritually to provide a convenient place for Jesus within our heart and welcome him sincerely.

CSA is meant to facilitate this personal growth of every member through all the ministries. So, here are some questions to ask ourselves:

Have I been open to the community? To God?

What have I gained from CSA?

How far have I grown spiritually?

From another point of view, the House of God can also be defined as CSA itself. A strong house is built upon strong foundation, which is the church. All of us are the foundations of CSA. Exco alone will not be enough to create a 'big' house for everyone. But together, we can create a house which is peaceful, where everyone works as one, shares fun and joy together.

Talking about contributing to CSA, some people may wonder why the people now in the 16^th exco wanted to be exco in the first place. Well, as for me, it was because I have gained a lot from CSA and I wanted to contribute something in return. It is His call and being an exco is my answer. Of course, you don't have to be an exco to grow CSA. Even the role of member plays important part for the growth of CSA. So, another question need to be asked is “What does God want me to do?”, “What am I supposed to do being a CSA member?”

It is indeed heartwarming when people are satisfied with our service. But, I believe everyone has his/her own expectations towards CSA. To be honest, the exco would not be able to fulfill all those expectations. Some of you may not agree with the way we do things. In that case, please kindly inform us so that we will be able to address the issue. An idea will forever remain an idea without being communicated. By voicing out your idea, you actually help the exco to stay true to our vision and mission. It also means you have involved yourself in building the House of God together.

In conjunction with the theme, I would like to invite all of you who have read this, to tell us how your experiences so far with our services. Feel free to post your comments under this topic. Your feedback will be precious to us and give us the strength to carry on and to serve better in the upcoming semester. The joy of being able to serve well will be our reward.

With love,

Alvin

Something........

2006-10-25T13:12:00.000+08:00

Hi all,

It is just a small question that was suddenly stumbled on.

"What is the first and foremost thing that a leader should have?"

The interesting part, I believe, lies not in the question, but in the answers. Therefore, I really and humbly hope for your comment.

Thank you.

In Christ

As the dreaded 'E'-word approaches...

2006-10-20T01:05:00.000+08:00

Put your hope in Yahweh, be strong, let your heart be bold, put your hope in Yahweh. (Ps 27: 14)

The psalms are an extremely rich source of prayer language, simply because the verses from there form such beautiful poems. Even translated, the splendour of the imagery and language used is not lost. Some of the most beautiful prayers can be found there.

However, what strikes me most is how ageless the psalms are. It is just so uncanny that the emotions, the sufferrings, the joys and trials of the Israelites all those years ago mirror our own life experiences today, even after all these years and all the change that has occurred. Indeed, it is somewhat of a comfort to know that in our troubles, that someone else was experiencing exactly the same thing thousands of years ago. Our life struggles are timeless.

Yahweh is near to the broken-hearted, he helps those whose spirit is crushed. (Ps 34: 18)

While I doubt the Israelites had to worry about exams, I'm pretty sure they had much graver matters to attend to. Back when they were experiencing the toils of strife and exile, they felt that God had left them for dead, just like how we sometimes feel when the chips are stacked against us in times of stress or trouble.

Yahweh guides a man's steps,
they are sure, and he takes pleasure in his progress;
he may fall, but never fatally,
since Yahweh supports him by the hand. (Ps 37: 23-24)

However, God will never hang us out to dry. He's always there, through the good times and the bad. We will stumble along the way, but as Jesus has shown us along the way to Calvary, God knows what it is like for us. He will never give us a burden too heavy to shoulder, for He knows that the strength to carry on is inside us.

Commit your fate to Yahweh,
trust him and he will act:
making your virtue clear as the light,
your integrity as bright as the moon. (Ps 37: 5-6)

For my part, I put my trust in you. (Ps 55: 23)

We are in a relationship with God: He knows us and has empowered us with the strength to do what must be done. But without our faith and trust in Him, the relationship is just one-way traffic. We must believe that no matter what happens, it is all part and parcel of His plan. Every joy and every sadness. Every success and every failure. It is imperative to wholly trust in His plan which is above all human logic and comprehension.

And from that trust, He will reward everyone accordingly. Sometimes not the perceived reward we seek like in the parable of the vineyard labourers, but God will give us the ample return for our struggles. We just have to keep doing what must be done, and trust God's plan for us.

For you have been my help
In the shadow of your wings I rejoice
My soul clings to you
Your right hand holds me fast (Ps 63: 7-8)

Even in this trying period, where deadlines are approaching and pressure rising, may we always remember that God is with us, just as He was with the Israelites in their time of dire need. We may feel tired. We may feel directionless. We may feel that all hope is lost. We may feel like giving up. But we must counter these feelings of despair, and continue to soldier on. Because we must fight on, with the knowledge that God wants to give us our deserved reward, lift us up and see us happy.

All the best for your assignments, projects, quizzes and exams my friends, take care and God bless you all always. Let us fight the good fight!

Yours Truly, The 16th Exco

2006-10-18T23:58:00.000+08:00

Christmas Party, Exam Mass, getting a priest for the 1 week that Fr. Jivan is away, Census...

As I went through the previous exco meeting that we had on monday, from 7 to 11pm in a freezing TR, I started to think: whom we are doing all these things for...

We are doing these for you. For all of you, dear CSA Members. We are here not to run some organisation called CSA, but to serve the people inside CSA. Without you, there will be no CSA. You are the CSA. We are builiding a CSA where all of you can find a family or friends or spiritual growth or even simply fun.

Yours truly, 16th Exco - truly yours.

It Anyway

2006-10-16T00:45:00.000+08:00

The verses below reportedly were written on the wall of Mother Teresa's home for children in Calcutta, and are widely attributed to her.
Some sources say that the words below were written on the wall in Mother Teresa's own room. In any case, their association with Mother Teresa and the Missionaries of Charity has made them popular worldwide, expressing as they do, the spirit in which they lived their lives.
They seem to be based on a composition originally by Kent Keith, but much of the second half has been re-written in a more spiritual way. Both versions are shown below.
___________________________________________
1. The version found written on the wall in Mother Teresa's home for children in Calcutta:

People are often unreasonable, irrational, and self-centered. Forgive them anyway.

If you are kind, people may accuse you of selfish, ulterior motives. Be kind anyway.

If you are successful, you will win some unfaithful friends and some genuine enemies. Succeed anyway.

If you are honest and sincere people may deceive you. Be honest and sincere anyway.

What you spend years creating, others could destroy overnight. Create anyway.

If you find serenity and happiness, some may be jealous. Be happy anyway.

The good you do today, will often be forgotten. Do good anyway.

Give the best you have, and it will never be enough. Give your best anyway.

In the final analysis, it is between you and God. It was never between you and them anyway.

-this version is credited to Mother Teresa

Christmas Party is coming!!!

2006-10-13T19:13:00.000+08:00

Umm I know it is still more than a month away and someone may blame me for giving a holiday mood in this time of exam period hehehe. Nonetheless, the 16th Exco has started organizing it!!!

Q: So, when is it?
A: It is on either the 2nd or the 3rd of December 2006, just after we finish our exam!

Q: Why so early, I thought Christmas is on the 25th?
A: You're right, dude. Well, there are a lot of international students in CSA. During Christmas, they tend to go back to their home country. We want to share the fun to the whole members of CSA. So, we hope that they will be willing to delay their flight home just for few days to celebrate Christmas together. The more the merrier, isn't it?

Q: Venue?
A: It is still to be confirmed for now. We are working on it ;)

Q: Why are you telling us so early?
A: So that you can plan your holiday from now, of course! Now that we have told you about the date, please reserve that day for the Christmas Party, okay?

Well, that's about it. Don't forget about it when you plan your holiday, k? If you have any further enquiries, feel free to send comments below.

Alvin
~Let Us Build the House of God~

The Our Father

2006-10-11T01:09:00.000+08:00

Our Father in Heaven,
There is an awesome privilege of being able to address the infinitely great and holy God so familiarly as “Father”. It also reminds us that despite there being 6.5 billion other people in the world, God’s attention to us is undivided because He is, Himself, infinite. The word “Our” reminds us of Christian unity and oneness under God. This prayer is not to be said with a selfish heart.

holy be Your name;
The whole purpose to our existence is that we may give glory to God as the work of His hands and as living testimonies to His goodness and His mercy and His power.

Your kingdom come;
We pray that God’s grace may find its way into the hearts of all men, to establish there his dominion of love.

Your will be done
on earth as it is in heaven.
“Whatever you want, God, I want too, no matter how much it may hurt; I’ll trust to your grace to see me though”. Believing this will mean an end to complaints and self-pity.

Give us this day our daily bread;
“Bread” is symbolic of all our needs, both spiritual and physical. “This day our daily bread” is Jesus’ message to us to not worry. Today’s trials are enough for anyone; ask for what you need today; you and God can take care of tomorrow when it comes.

and forgive us our sins as we forgive those who sin against us;
We must forgive if we expect forgiveness: “For if you forgive men their offenses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you your offenses. But if you do not forgive men, neither will your Father forgive you your offenses” (Matt 6:14-15)

Do not bring us to the test
“Preserve us from any temptation which might be too big for us and strengthen us with your grace against the temptations which do face us.”

but deliver us from evil.
“Protect us from all harm, O Father, from physical harm so far as it is in accord with your will; but especially from any harm that may touch the soul.”

Amen.
And so ending, we have said the perfect prayer!

*Taken from ACTS Materials for week starting 06/03/2006

You Are Mine

2006-10-08T01:24:00.000+08:00

Hi! This is my 1st time blogging in CSA-Voices. Eh, since Bobby blogged a song in, I'll also want to! Actually, this song, I believe all of you knew it before I did. But this song(to me) gave me alot of courage. I got to know this song from Br. Sebastian when I went to a Thailand pilgrimage. That was before the time I enter Uni, everything were changing so fast that I couldn't find myself aceepting the changes. This song gave me the courage, saying, "Jocelyn, do no be afraid, I am with you!". Through this song, God let me understand that I'm not alone, He's with me!

You Are Mine
I will come to you in the silence
I will lift you from all your fear
You will hear My voice
I claim you as My choice
Be still, and know I am near

I am hope for all who are hopeless
I am eyes for all who long to see
In the shadows of the night,
I will be your light
Come and rest in Me

Do not be afraid, I am with you
I have called you each by name
Come and follow Me
I will bring you home
I love you and you are mine

I am strength for all the despairing
Healing for the ones who dwell in shame
All the blind will see,
the lame will all run free
And all will know My name

Do not be afraid, I am with you
I have called you each by name
Come and follow Me
I will bring you home
I love you and you are mine

I am the Word that leads all to freedom
I am the peace the world cannot give
I will call your name,
embracing all your pain
Stand up, now, walk, and live

Do not be afraid, I am with you
I have called you each by name
Come and follow Me
I will bring you home
I love you and you are mine

--Jocelyn

2006-10-05T03:34:00.000+08:00

Small Enough - Nicohole Nordeman.

if you do not have the song, add me on ur msn (bobb0002@ntu.edu.sg) and i will send u the song.

Oh, Great God, be small enough to hear me now.
There were times when I was crying from the dark of Daniel's den;
And I have asked you once or twice if You would part the sea again.
But tonight I do not need a fiery pillar in the sky.
Just want to know you're gonna hold me if I start to cry.
Oh great God, be small enough to hear me now.

Oh great God, be close enough to feel You now.
There have been moments when I could not face Goliath on my own.
And how could I forget we've march around our share of Jerichos.
But I will not be setting out a fleece for You tonight.
Just want to know that everything will be alright.
Oh, great God, be close enough to feel You now.

All praise and all the honor be;
To the God of ancient mysteries.
Whose every sign and wonder turn the pages of our history.
But tonight my heart is heavy,
And I cannot keep from whispering this prayer.
Are You there?

And I know You could leave writing on the wall that's just for me.
Or send wisdom while I'm sleeping, like in Solomon's sweet dreams.
But I don't need the strength of Samson or a chariot in the end...
*Just Want to know that You still know how many hairs are on my head.
Oh, great God, be small enough to hear me now.

Sometimes, what I needed were not God who is almighty and powerful. I need a God who is intimate to me. Whether I fail my studies, or ACTS not working out, I don't care as long as I have this God as MY God, who embraces me.

*I interpret this as if I am lying down my head on God's lap, and God is caresing my hair and telling me "everything will be alright".

bobby

CSA Census 2006

2006-10-04T03:20:00.000+08:00

For many of us, CSA has become an inseparable part of our life here at NTU. It is not just a club or merely a place of worship. To me personally, CSA is a place where we can find a deeper meaning of being a Catholic, a place where we can strengthen our relationship with Christ our Lord. It is a place where we can grow spiritually together as brothers and sisters. Yes, being in CSA is like being a part of a family in Christ. I believe many of you share the same feeling.

It is unfortunate that we are still unable to share this blessing with our brothers and sisters who are Catholics yet unaware of the existence of CSA. Perhaps, they are aware of it but they feel awkward and out of place when they went for mass for the 1st time (we have to admit that we do not always create a welcoming environment for newcomers).

With this concern in mind, the 16th Exco have decided to hold another census for this year. We are hoping that through this census we will be able to reach out to others outside CSA and share the joy of being a part of a Catholic community. By getting their particulars, we will be able to inform them about our activities in CSA and invite them to be part of our family. We also hope that our new ACTS system would serve as a follow up to this census and give our new members the first taste of being in a Catholic community on campus.

As this census is a CSA project, it will involve all ministries as well as its respective officers and subcomms. On behalf of the exco, I would like to express my deepest gratitude to those who have volunteered to help out with this census. The census itself will start next week and we hope to complete it by the end of the following week. We will assign each census group to cover one of the 16 halls. Each group has the freedom to choose the day to conduct the census before the 2-week period.

This census is, so far, the only way for us to make CSA more accessible to people who are still not in our database. However, it is not about creating memberships and not about numbers. Our census is about us reaching out to others and inviting them to be part of our family. Let us, therefore, play our part in this meaningful project.

Warmest regards,

Marcel Prayogo

(For those willing to volunteer for census, please contact Marcel at 93446929 or Randy at 94833732. You may also express your interest through the comment section of this blog.)

A little something...

2006-10-03T03:51:00.000+08:00

Here's a little poem I dug up while clearing out my room today. I have no recollection who gave it to me (if it's even mine for that matter...) or when it was given, but I think it's a sweet little poem so I thought I'd share it with everyone.

THE MIRACLE OF FRIENDSHIP

There's a Miracle called "Friendship"

That dwells within the heart

And you don't know how it happens

Or when it gets its start

But the happiness it brings you

Always gives a special lift

And you realize that friendship

Is God's most precious GIFT.

Hope you liked it. Have a great week ahead people! =)

"Are you jealous on my account?"

2006-10-01T14:35:00.000+08:00

I thought this weekend's Scripture readings were a very good reminder of how we should not be close-minded to the working of God and His Holy Spirit just because it does not come to the "right person", or at the "right time" or the "right place". In this new academic year, let us challenge ourselves to look at people and situations not with our own biasness, but with the eyes of God - who can turn all things into good.

It's recess, yay!!! How's it going???

2006-09-25T13:43:00.000+08:00

Hello all, this is Gibran. First post here, hahaha.
First 'official' day of recess ;p, how is it going?? Get steady and we can finish our assignments or review the lectures. A refreshing activity is also recommended (Let's join the Construction Phase One this thursday!! Details on E-miracle. Hahaha, small advertisement lol)
Actually I already would like to create a post some time ago, but I think the 'ACTS 2006 and Beyond' article is really good. Dun want anybody to miss it. Have you checked it out?

Hmm, just would like to share sumthin. I got a pretty good piece of psalm some days ago. It is Psalm 19 : 12-14. Here it goes:

"Who can detect heedless failing?
Cleanse me from my unknown faults.
But from willful sins keep Your servant;
let them never control me.
Then shall I be blameless,
innocent of grave sin.
Let the words of my mouth meet with Your favor,
keep the thoughts of my heart before You,
Lord, my rock and my redeemer."

That's it. How's it?
For me, it shows a very form of dependence to God.
We as human do sins. Sometimes it is something that we do not realize. Sometimes it is something that we are willful to do. Then the writer of this psalm really express his hope on God to help him/her to do God's will in form of this prayer. Yes, God saves us from our sins. Let's pray for it.
Hope this is useful to you.

Oh yeah, Alvin goes back to his homecountry because he has a family business.
He really apologizes for his inability to be with us this recess.

Yup, that's all. I hope for the best for all of you in this week. And most importantly, God Bless!!!

~Let Us Build the House of God~

Lost + Found

2006-09-21T21:02:00.000+08:00

Announcement! Yesterday after mass, we found a pencil case whose owner is unknown. I take a photo of the pencil case. Here it is:So, if any of you think that it is yours just let me know. You can contact me at alvin.pandrya@gmail.com

Alvin
~ Let Us Build the House of God ~

ACTS 2006 & Beyond...

2006-09-21T20:16:00.000+08:00

Read slowly.

Consider the life of the apostles. They were twelve people from diverse background who were called as disciples and transformed into apostles and stayed together until the very end. What made the difference? It was the three years that Jesus spent together with them; each day they grew spiritually in deep fellowship with one another, until they were ready to be apostles: the ones who are sent.

This very same scenario in Galilee could also happen here in NTU. ACTS (Action Charity Testimony Sanctification) is a small group ministry that meets weekly for sharing. With the new system of three to five members of the same academic year per group, the members will find it much easier to identify with one another during sharing. This fact and the size of the group itself will, hopefully, lead to a deeper fellowship. The materials and the direction of the sharing will be specific for each year, to cater to the different needs, and in the bigger picture, to facilitate a continuous and directed growth process. The groups formed will grow together throughout the four (or three) years in NTU. It is to my greatest delight if after graduation, the members of the group can find support from one another because of the friendship that has been forged slowly throughout the years in NTU.

After all, are we not disciples of the Lord? We were called once, at one point of our life as disciples; and we hope that one day we become apostles: the ones who are sent, to fulfill our mission wherever and whatever God has planned for us from the very beginning. Let ACTS be the chain that links the two. Let ACTS be the process that prepares you for the life that you will face after NTU. I invite you to a place of growth and fellowship. I invite you to ACTS, 2006 & Beyond.

In God’s love for us,
Bobby Tantri
ACTS Officer 2006 (& maybe beyond)

(if you have any enquieries / you would like to sign up as a member / ACTS leader, you may post it in the reply section.)

Construction Phase #1

2006-09-21T03:31:00.000+08:00

Yo, it’s me again. So sorry this blog hasn’t been updated for quite some time. Don’t worry this blog is still alive. We were just busy with our reports, CA, etc because you know; school really likes to give us so many things near recess.

By the way, talking about recess, it means Activity Day I is around the corner! Yes, our very first activity day will be on Thursday, 28^th September 2006, 2.00 – 8.00 PM @ CAYC, Hougang. The fee is $7 per person. The theme is: Construction Phase #1. Remember our theme “Let Us Build the House of God”? This activity day will serve as the starting point to build the House of God in NTU, especially in CSA. So, come and let us share the fun together ;) Oh yeah, dinner will be provided. We will have dinner together under the moonlight (if there is any hehehe).

Okie, now I want to reveal a little secret. Talking about the venue, actually previously we planned to do the activity day at Marina Bay. But recent weather doesn’t really assuring to have an outdoor activity. So we were trying to look for an indoor place which is affordable. Some places come to mind, such as Adrianto’s Condominium at Choa Chu Kang, CAYC, and…school…(yeah, I mean NTU). It is so sad lah having activity day at school. Luckily, we were able to get a place at CAYC and the price is affordable. Yeah, God always provides!

Those staying in hall may find Hougang a bit too far. So, here is a suggestion. You can gather at Boon Lay MRT Station and go to Hougang as a group. We will have some Excos organize the people to go together. We are also thinking of providing a transport back to NTU so that after that tiring day you don’t have to take MRT and buses back to hall. We will update you again for confirmation. So, please look out for the e-Miracle sent to you, okie?

As for the programs, I won’t tell you anything. You have to come and find out by yourself ;).

Oh yeah, for those of you thinking of going, please send an SMS for confirmation to Cheryl (90400861) as we need a rough number on how many people will turn up at the day itself. If you have further questions or doubts, you can just send comments in this blog. We will answer as soon as we can ;).

We’ll see you there!

Alvin on behalf of the 16^th Exco
~ Let Us Build the House of God ~

Starting our Journey of Faith...

2006-09-17T21:23:00.000+08:00

Hello, everyone!! Last Wednesday, we have celebrated the investiture mass together. That means, the 16^th have been officially Ex-Co now, succeeding the 15^th Ex-Co. We, the 16^th, want to promote a good communication with all the members. This blog is only one of our efforts.

I want to share with you a verse in bible. It’s from John 10:14.
I am the good shepherd, and know my sheep, and am known of mine.

I believe that before we outreach to all of you, we should introduce ourselves first, especially for those of you who haven’t known who we are. So, here goes nothing:

click to see larger image

Top, from left to right: Br. Kelvin, Marcel, Bobby, Charlene, Cheryl, Yessica, Jocelyn, Prof. Stephen.

Bottom, from left to right: Prof. Harianto, Amy, Ignatius, Alvin, Archbishop Nicholas Chia, Gibran, Wira, Randy, Tobias, Fr. Jivan.

You can find more about us here. Once again, we would like to ask for your support, to build the House of God in NTU together.

God Bless!

Alvin
~ Let Us Build the House of God ~

Thank you all...

2006-09-15T22:07:00.000+08:00

Hey everyone, Greg here. Well, this has been in the pipeline for quite a while now. I never knew how I'd end up saying this, but I guess God provides us with the means along the way.

In case you haven't heard already, I've quit NTU to puruse a Mass Communications degree in the Management Development Institute of Singapore, or MDIS. Academically, it was an easy decision to make, because I knew I wasn't going to be happy in Engineering, even less so in Civil Engine. However, it pains me to be leaving a bunch of wonderful friends that have, for the past year, been my family on campus away from home.

It's been a really blessed time getting to know and serve everyone out there in CSA. I don't know how to thank all of you out there because each of you has touched my life, one way or another. I'll never forget the times we've met as a community to pray or have fun, nor will I forget that fateful day in Hall 12 Function Hall (especially Bobby's super tough questions...). I hope we all stay together as one family united in Christ, for I promise I'll still be around whenever God permits me. If anyone ever tells me I've wasted a year in NTU, I can always safely look to all of you and say that none of that time had gone to waste.

That being said, let us build this community of God with the 16th Ex-Co. I think CSA has a very, very vibrant future ahead, so let's all chip in and help achieve their vision!

God love you all. =)

Adding My Voice...

2006-09-15T07:08:00.000+08:00

Just wanted to say that this is a timely development. Many CSA members already have blogs and it should come to no surprise that CSA would one day have its own blog. Here's hoping that CSA Voices will be a true representation of the CSA Family online!

Thank God It's Friday!

Peter

Join Us!

2006-09-14T14:57:00.000+08:00

Hello, all!!! I'm so excited to see so many of you tagging at the tag board. Thanks! Let us make this blog more lively! But then you might think, "Is tagging all I can do?" The answer is a definite "No!"

You can give comments :D. No need to sign up for blogger, just click comments and start writing. Now, for those of you who are keen to do more than tagging and commenting, you are more than welcome to post something here!

How to do that? Easy, just send your name and email address to alvin.pandrya@gmail.com and wait for the invitation. Please note that in order to become a member of CSA Voices, you need to have a blogger account. But I think that shouldn't be a problem, just create one :D. It is not difficult.

So, what are you waiting for? Join Us!

God Bless,

Alvin
~ Let Us Build the House of God ~

CSA Voices is Here!

2006-09-12T11:49:00.000+08:00

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, welcome to the Catholic Students’ Apostolate Official Blog! We, the 16^th Exco, believes that CSA members should be involved more in the growth of CSA, hence the theme “Let Us Build the House of God”. Remember, CSA is more than just a club, it is a church, us. And, we still cling to our vision which is to create a community-driven CSA. We purposely name our blog “CSA Voices” because this is where you can voice out your ideas, opinions, comments, everything! So, feel free to give comments, share, or even just say hi at the tag board. Last but not least, enjoy and expect something new in this blog everyday! God Bless Us!

With love,

The 16^th