10 November 2024
From Most Rev Julian Leow Beng Kim,
President of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Malaysia, Singapore, Brunei
In Response to the Incident at St Joseph Church, Bukit Timah, Singapore
We, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei, stand in solidarity with the Archdiocese of Singapore following the recent act of violence at St Joseph Church, Bukit Timah, while Rev Fr Christopher Lee, the Parish Priest, was celebrating the 5.30pm Mass on Nov 9 2024. This incident is an urgent call for us to come together in prayer as a community of faith.
On behalf of the bishops of our Conference, I extend our prayers for the swift recovery of Fr Christopher Lee, the comfort of his parishioners, and strength for all affected in the Archdiocese of Singapore. Let us unite in asking our Heavenly Father for a swift and complete recovery for him, as well as for the consolation and courage of the faithful who have been affected by this traumatic event.
At a time when we, as a region, strive to foster peace, love, and understanding in our societies, such violence feels especially painful. Yet, it is in these moments of trial that we are reminded of our call as Christians to respond with peace, compassion, and forgiveness. All the more we are called to be lights in the world, resilient and steadfast in faith, even amidst adversity.
We ask all the faithful across Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei to join us in prayer for healing and unity, embracing Christ’s words: “Blessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God” (Matthew 5:9). May our united prayers guide us all with grace and hope.
We also pray for those who seek to cause division through violence, that the Lord may touch their hearts with mercy, leading them toward healing and redemption.
Yours in Christ,
+Archbishop Julian Leow Beng Kim, D.D
President Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei
