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Opus Dei: My Experience With 'El Padre' (Part 2)

Unlike any other Thursday morning, I arrived at the airport at 10 o'clock, checked in and eagerly waited for my flight at noon. Time flew by...

As I sat on my seat with the plane getting ready for take-off, thoughts were whirling in my head. How would I greet the Father? What would I say to him? What am I to ask him about? This is the first time I am to travel so far to just to see someone, not to mention that the person I would meet is the prelate of Opus Dei, Bishop Javier Echevarria.

An hour has past, and the plane landed at Senai airport. Everyone was going on with their daily routine at the airport; some rushing off to work, some to meet their families. Well, I had something else in mind, I had a special task ahead of me- to meet 'el Padre'.

I spent some time in Johor Bahru, had lunch with my dad who lives there. Then he sent me on a cab across the border unto Singapore. I arrived in the evening at 6. The taxi driver left me at Rochor, and by Divine Providence, a church was right behind the taxi stand.

Hurriedly, with a luggage bag in my hand, I went and made my visit. I prayed the very same words of the Founder of Opus Dei, St Josemaria when he was discerning what God wants of him, "Domine ut videam, Domine ut sit!" Lord, let me see. Lord, let it be! In my heart there was a stirring, I sincerely wanted to know what God has in store for me in this little pilgrimage, and what he wants from me. Obviously, I had no idea!

I was to stay in Whitley House, a centre for Opus Dei. So I took the subway to a place called Novena. I continued to walk down the street after that, following the instructions Fr Joe had given me. After about 20 minutes, I finally arrived in the centre, with much sweat on my brow.

had dinner there at the centre. I had a good meal and a good conversation with those living at the centre. Here, I take an opportunity to thank them for their wonderful hospitality. They are Fr Joe, John, Fr Michael, Claro, Jerry, Ruel, Eric, Alex, Benny and Javier. I hope I didn't forget anyone. =)

After the Da Vinci Code novel, many tend to think that Opus Dei members are like the albino monk, Silas, who has a freakish nature, bordering insanity. Of course, the real members are nothing close to how it has been portrayed in the novel. For me, they are ordinary men, trying really hard to be close to God with their prayer and work.

They are very humorous people as well. To me, its an important characteristic that a person should have. One of them, Javier, gave me a good laugh, by saying that he was an environmentalist who came to Singapore to save the trees and macacos (monkeys). But in fact, he was a doctor in a hospital within walking distance from the centre. =)

El Padre arrived the next day in the evening. But before his arrival I was given an assignment to remove the labels on the rosaries that were to be given to the families who are to meet the father. This might be an insignificant issue in comparison to the visit of the prelate. But I learnt a valuable lesson. That even in the smallest matters one can glorify God by doing it extraordinary well. I didn't really remove the labels well the 1st time I did it. I felt that it was unnecessary.

Subsequently, I was told to double check as there were still some adhesive on some of the boxes for the rosaries. It was only then that I realized that even in such petty things, we should do our best and offer it up to God. Well, we know what happened to the offering of Cain in the bible. Perhaps, he did not really put his heart into offering an unblemished sacrifice. Similarly, our work can be an offering to God. Would we want to offer up to God a sloppy job?

I was really lucky to have met the father several times, and was able to speak to him as well, in his days in Singapore. On Friday night, I met the father along with some other students at another centre known as Ravenahl. It was a stone throw away from the National University of Singapore. There were about 30 of us present. The father spoke to us about many things, reminding us young people to be holy!

My eyes were fixed on his kind face as he spoke so lovingly, as if he knew each and every one of us personally. After about 30 minutes, the father was reminded that time was up and he had to go elsewhere. Though so, he insisted that he wanted to stay with us for hours and hours, even till the wee hours of the night. =) But he was also conscious that he had to stick to the schedule given unto him as he had to meet others as well. As he left, I stretched out my hand and kissed his ring, the bishop prelate of Opus Dei, successor of the apostles, friend of St Josemaria...

The next day was even busier, as there was a general get-together with the father. I was graced by a short visit of the father to Whitley house, and had a crucifix and rosary blessed by him. Being so excited that I am in such a proximate distance with the father, I forgot that these sacramentals would aid me in living the message of St Josemaria, of being holy wherever I am.

bout 800 people, Catholics and non-Catholics, members of the Work and others, flocked into the Singapore Orchid Club to listen the words of el Padre. It was set to begin at 3 in the afternoon. It was a hot day, but the air conditioning in the huge ballroom did justice. I sat down at a designated spot, waiting, praying, as I was to ask a question infront of so many people.

Though it was a formal get-together, where the women were in beautiful dresses, and men in ties and coats, I did not feel uneasy. The MC reminded the people that we should address the prelate as 'father', not bishop nor your lordship. It was to maintain a familial relationship with the prelate. That it is not so much of hierarchy, but family. And this was exactly how I felt when I was in Whitley House, where the members were like a family praying, eating and conversing together.

Then, there were roars of applause as the people welcomed the father as he arrived. He spoke in Spanish, and headphones were given out to those who did not understand the language. And that includes me. The questions raised revolved around several important issues.

There was a woman expecting a 7th child who asked a question on how to love her family better. Myself, on the other hand, asked when would there be a centre in Penang, my hometown, as I have reaped much fruit from the formations they have provided. What more if there be a physical foothold to spread the Gospel.

As he answered my question, his eyes looked intently on me. His gaze left an impression in my mind that I will not soon forget. He told me that whether or not there would be a centre in Penang, it would depend on me; on my prayers, my personal apostolate. I am convinced that this resolution would soon be realized, as he continued to explain how this goal can be achieved.

Some would claim that Opus Dei has an 'elitist' mentality. Contrary to that, el padre emphasized that members of the Work are no different from any other Catholic as they struggle to fulfill the ordinary duties of a Christian. In fact, he said that his children are weaker, so that the grace of God may be ever more present.

After an hour, we all knelt, and he gave us his blessing, that the Lord may be in our hearts, and on our lips. I too pray that the Lord would truely be "all in all."

Time really went by fast when I was there in Singapore. How I wish I could slow down the few moments when I was with el padre. On Sunday evening, I managed to be at Changi airport to send off the father. I wanted to kiss his ring again before he left, but as I stretched my hand towards his, he embraced me and gave me a hug. Again, as a lucky man, a photo was snapped, I hope I could get my hands on the picture soon. I'll make sure to frame it up and place it in a dignified spot in my room.

After a few minutes of chatting, the father checked into the departure hall. We then left for dinner. And after a few days more, without myself noticing it, I was on the plane back to Penang. This post is first 'fruit' of my visit, that I want to let everyone know of Christ's love, of His love which manifested greatly in Javier Echevarria, bishop prelate of Opus Dei, el Padre...

Sancta Maria, Spes nostra, Sedes Sapientiae

Ora pro nobis

Opus Dei: My Experience (Part 1)

"How I wish your bearing and conversation were such that, on seeing or hearing
you, people would say: this man reads the life of Jesus Christ" -St Josemaria

It has been almost 80 years since St Josemaria Escriva has founded Opus Dei in October 2, 1928. St Josemaria has always said that Opus Dei was founded by God inspite of him. This reminds me of the words of St John the Baptist, "He must increase, but I must decrease." Opus Dei is in fact the work of God and St Josemaria insisted that he was merely an instrument. Such humility! Such love for God!

Over the decades, Opus Dei, through the power of the Holy Spirit has spread its wings far and wide, bringing many people closer to Christ. The message of the founder was simple, that we can be holy wherever we are; in offices, in farms, in hospitals, in universities etc. We, as Catholics share in the common priesthood of Christ. Like the priest who offers up the Body and Blood of Christ in the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass; we too place our work as a teacher, a doctor, a farmer, a taxi driver, an engineer, unto the altar of sacrifice, offering it to God.

"Wherever your yearnings, your work, your affections are, that is the place
for your daily encounter with Christ. It is in midst of the most material things
of the earth that we must sanctify ourselves, serving God and all people.

Heaven and earth seem to merge, my sons and daughters, on the horizon. But
where they really meet is in your hearts, when you sanctify your everyday
lives..." -St Josemaria

I have been drawn to this message that has been offered to me. Not everyone is called to religious life, not me at least. But St Josemaria reminds me still that I do not have to go to the mountains or leave for the deserts to be a hermit, or live in the monastery, so that I may be closer to God. I can sanctify myself right where I am, even now as I type this post!

What a profound message! And this message can also be yours. Why? Cos most of us are in the world, living in societies, whether it be a metropolis or a small village, going about fulfilling our daily duties and doing our work to earn an honest living. Wouldn't it be a perfect if all that we do throughout the day be offered up to God?

Sometimes we are scandalised by how some people seem so holy in church, but yet, when they step out of the church, they seem to be a different person altogether. There seem to be a switch where they can turn on to 'religious mode' when they're in church and 'secular mode' when they're out in the world. Christian ethics can be compromised for the sake of profit. How silly! St Josemaria warns us strongly against such a mentality...

"No! We cannot lead a double life. We cannot be like schizophrenics, if we want
to be Christians. There is just one life, made of flesh and spirit. And it is
this life which has to become, in both soul and body, holy and filled with God.
We discover the invisible God in the most visible and material things"

After I've discovered Opus Dei, I have become more and more intrigued by this universal call of holiness. Now, in the previous weekend, I was graced to meet the prelate of Opus Dei, Bishop Javier Echevarria. I can't never forget how loving a father he is...

After being informed that he would be down in Singapore after accompanying the Holy Father in the recent World Youth Day, I got myself ready, squandered all my resources =) to get myself there. The prelate visited Singapore from 1 to 3 August. It was a great experience, one I would never forget! But that's part 2 of my post, which would be up in a couple of days. I'm hoping to get some photos from it so that I may be able to show you guys. Until then, adios.

Sancta Maria, spes nostra, sedes sapientiae
Ora Pro nobis

My KL Trip

Well,its been a month ago since I went to Kuala Lumpur with Angela, I know I'm a lil late in posting, but better late than never eh? I've just finished my studies, waiting for my results (do pray, pray, pray for me) and am applying for a job as a junior lecturer. So I've decided to go for a holiday before I start to work. As usual, I chose the most affordable holiday destination, KL.

Angela never flew on a plane before, so we decided the take a flight down to KL from Penang. She was so excited when we were taking off. On the other hand, I don't like to fly, I try to avoid them. You can say that I'm a lil scared to go on an aeroplane. While clutching my rosary in my hands and praying, I safely arrived in KL. It was a short flight, about 50 minutes. Though short, I still dislike flying, and feel very uncomfortable. When I was young, I used to like flying. I wonder what happened?
In the midst of the business of the capital of Malaysia, Angela and I found time to meet up with some of our friends. Here's Sean, Enrique, and John (seen from left) with us in a restaurant. The food was fantastic. I like Italian food. Well, my friends were very hospitable and I had a good time with them. As a chinese, a chinese to the core, we played some mahjong with Enrique as well, til late night. It is good to know that Enrique is a Filipino.

This is St John's Cathedral of the archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. Here's where we went for our Sunday Mass. I noticed that there are many foreigners here who come to Church, unlike my home diocese. I saw many Filipinos, Africans, so on and so forth.

To earn some additional income, some of the Filipino set up temporary stalls to sell food right outside the cathedral. There was a variety of food sold out there. I didn't eat any. I went down the street to a mamak stall and had some tea instead.

Off for Holy Mass then. The Mass was said by a priest whose name I cannot recall. Well, the Holy Mass is the same Sacrifice no matter who says it. They are still alter Christus, another Christ.

Notice the altar at the cathedral. Do you see anything special? It took me sometime to figure it out, so I'm not gonna be so nice to tell you about immediately as well. Hmm, look carefully! If you have eagle's eyes you would be able to see the words Ecce Agnus Dei inscribed on the altar. It took me some time, so I would be great if I knew you took some time as well. So I don't feel so stupid.

After Mass, we took the opportunity to visit St Anthony's church. It looks beautiful. We tried to look for some statues at the Catholic gift shop there, but there was none which suited what I had in mind. But when I came back to Penang, Angela decided to buy me a gift, a beautiful statue of Our Lady of Lourdes. But this is another story for another day.

Here's a look of how the church is from the inside. There was Holy Mass going on, it was said in Malay. Mass meant for the Indonesian migrant workers.

In the few days that we were in KL, after visiting churches, we also went to several other places. Ikea was the place to be. Angela is always excited to see new furniture, and her fantasies run wild. But for me, I crave for the food there. Everytime I'm down in KL I would surely have something to eat from here. Here are some Swedish meatballs and chicken with lemon-grass gravy.

For daily Masses, we went to St Ignatius Church, which was close by to where we were staying. Here's a photo of their Marian grotto which I find rather simple, but beautiful. Ave Maria...

We went to Sunway Lagoon as well, its a huge water theme park. I've been accused by some friends of mine for being a kid. They told me that such theme parks are for kids. But what the heck! I enjoyed it, Angela did too.

Here's a tiger that we saw in the theme park. I sure wish I could set it loose with some of the people I don't like and watch them run. But fortunately, my Christian charity forbids such devious ideas. =) hehe.
As a person afraid of heights, I didn't like crossing the rope bridge. I was shaking. Seriously. They purpose put holes in the middle of the bridge so that you are able to see below, and that was scary. But I'm glad that I got over it, with a little help from Angie, of course.

Hmm... this photo ain't suppose to be here. There seem to be some mix-up while I was uploading the photos. But I'm a lil to lazy to make any amendments now. So here's the photo of me in the grotto at SIC.

Here's a photo of a python nicely sleeping in his cage. Creatures like these should stay in cages. Cos that's where they belong. =)

I don't like roller coaster rides either. But after some constant pressure by Angela, I consented to take a ride. Wasn't that bad. But I would prefer to watch the ride next time, and not be in it. =P

Here's a nice photo of Angela infront of the man-made waterfall. We rarely took photos together. Someone had to take the picture. Sigh...

Here are some other photos that I took.

I prefer to have a picture taken of me with the butt of an elephant.

Here an aerial view of the theme park. If I'm not mistaken it was formerly an abandoned tin mine.

This is Sunway Pyramid, a shopping mall with an Egyptian concept. I had my history lesson that day. That Egyptians liked to wear Nike, and ate food like Carl's Junior, TGI Fridays and McDonald's.

Before watching a movie together with Angela, I decided to pose as emperor Palpatine. But the force was not with me, as forks of lightning did not come out of my fingertips.

Here's a look of the tabernacle at St Ignatius Church...

And here's the altar... Hmm, where have they taken my Lord?

After spending about five days in KL, which passed so quickly, we were on our way home. It was a tiring trip, but an enjoyable one. Well, I don't know when or where my next trip will be, I'm sure it would also be great. After all, I have Angela to plan such matter for me. =)

Viva il Papa! Cya in Madrid!

After the World Youth Day celebrations, my brother, Evan, who went on a pilgrimage to this wonderful event came back with something wonderful for me. It's a cap inscribed with Benedetto XVI. Cool eh??? I'm still considering where to place it in my room, or to wear it all around, especially infront of people who frown on authority and the papacy. Those who know me well enough, knows who I'm talking about. *wink*



The cap might be nothing much, but it serves to express my loyalty and allegiance to the Holy Father, Pope Benedict XVI, who has been and continues to be a faithful servant of the Truth. Like his predecessor Pope John Paul II, he reaches out to the young, the future of the Church. In this World Youth Day, he has come to many young people, to show them the way to the Truth, to lead them, as shepherd of the flock to Jesus Christ. Instead of the youth coming to him, his holiness comes to us. I guess the term 'prisoner of the Vatican' very often used on previous popes is no longer in usable. It's obsolete!



With this cap, it got me all boosted to start saving some cash for Madrid, Spain, the next venue for the World Youth Day. I sure do hope that he would still be there in 3 years time. By the grace of God, I won't pass the age limit yet =), I pray that I would also be able to make a pilgrimage there as well. The Euro dollars are going strong, about 5 times the value of the Malaysian Ringgit. So do pray for me, that I may get a job soon. I'm going through a final bout of an interview to be a lecturer. So do pray for me. See ya! Hopefully in Madrid as well.

How Great Thou Art

Indeed how great is the Lord. My heart is at peace. "Dominus iluminatio mea et salus mea, quem timebo? - The Lord is my light and my salvation, whom shall I fear?" (Ps 26:1)

O Lord my God! When I in awesome wonder
Consider all the works Thy hands have made.
I see the stars, I hear the rolling thunder,
Thy power through-out the universe displayed.

Then sings my soul, my Saviour God, to Thee;
How great Thou art, how great Thou art!

When through the woods and forest glades I wander
And hear the birds sing sweetly in the trees;
When I look down from lofty mountain grandeur
And hear the brook and feel the gentle breeze:

And when I think that God, His Son not sparing,
Sent Him to die, I scarce can take it in;
That on the cross, my burden gladly bearing,
He bled and died to take away my sin:

When Christ shall come with shouts of acclamation
And take me home, what joy shall fill my heart!
Then I shall bow in humble adoration,
And there proclaim, my God, how great Thou art!

In Te Domine Speravi...

"Quid est veritas? - what is truth?" -John 18:38

These were the words of Pontius Pilate. These very same words are in the minds of many of the faithful today. The failure in implementing properly the documents of Vatican II, sacred Liturgy no longer treated as sacred, the rise of liberalism and modernism within the Church, especially within the clergy and what that has been taught in many seminaries has left the people of God with a big question mark. The list goes on and on.

The mystery of God has been reduced to simply moral values. Christ's redemptive act on the Cross has been reduced to the mere death of a good man. Some priests deny that Adam and Eve ever existed. One would have to wonder why there is a need for Christ's death if there is no original sin, since our first parents never existed. Others deny the existence of purgatory, which has been a teaching of the Church since its humble beginning.

The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass has been tampered with insertions of personal prayers of the priests, turning the Mass into a social event. The Blessed Sacrament profaned by shoddy cleaning of ciboriums to avoid a prolonged Mass and intinction by the faithful. The Mass is divine and independent from human control, but the 'needs of the people' have taken priority over the sacrifice of Christ. We come for Mass not for religious therapy or entertainment, but primarily to worship God, not as how we will it, but as how Christ willed it through His Church.

Well, I might be grumbling at what I see almost everyday, but that's beside the point, the video clip below is the original purpose of why I wrote this post. In the midst of great trials, where there is rarely any clarity of doctrine in the Church, God raises men after his own heart to tend to His sheep. Below we see the priestly ordinations of 36 deacons of the prelature of Opus Dei on May 24, 2008, in the basilica of San Eugenio in Rome.

"Ego in hoc natus sum, et ad hoc veni in mundum, ut testimonium perhibeam veritati: omnis qui est ex veritate, audit vocem meam. -For this was I born, and for this came I into the world; that I should give testimony to the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice." (John 18:37)