My Story

Perhaps I shall begin this with a little story, a little bit about myself. However I am not an octogenarian nor am I someone who claims to be an expert or has vast knowledge on everything in the world. But I would like to share about myself and my faith journey.

I was born into a devout Catholic family. My parents met while in church, while helping out in the RCIA ministry. My mother is a convert to Catholicism (she was brought up Taoist, however my grandmother converted to Christianity in her later years) while my father was brought up in a traditional Catholic family.

I was, of course, baptised while I was an infant. My paternal grandmother made sure that all her grandchildren (as of 2013, seven and counting) received the Sacrament of Baptism. My parents made sure that I attended catechism classes regularly and received the  various sacraments at each particular developmental stage.

I attended a Catholic kindergarten near my home; named for St. Francis of Assisi. My schooling years were spent in an Infant Jesus (IJ) Convent school, as my parents felt that it was important that religion remained as some component of my education. I think that the discipline & etiquette enforced in school helped me to develop as a young lady (however not to too large an extent, my mother complains I picked up some not very desirable habits from school).

Catechism classes for me was a mixed experience. Yes, I did feel enriched spiritually by the lessons, yet on the other hand it was slightly displeasing because of a certain group of peers who made my growing pains not any less painful. Although the experience was bittersweet it still helped me to become a more gracious person. After all, we believe that the crosses given to us are never too heavy.

I actually never planned on being a catechist. I had always wanted to be a lector, to recite the Word of God to the congregation. I also had experience helping my parents with simple duties in their Infant Baptism ministry and church bookshop ministry. After confirmation at 15 I was all set to join the lectors. However, I still felt a sense of disillusionment. I was still confused.

Then, God showed me the way through some very special people. My mother's friend who is one of the key catechetical coordinators at my parish was looking for young catechist assistants, and since I had just finished my GCE O' Level exams I had some time to pass. My mother informed me of this and somehow I readily agreed.

I assisted a class preparing for Holy Communion for one year. It taught me so much about what it was like to be a catechist and it was an experience of re-learning with the children. Afterwhich my mother's friend sent me to attend Basic Catechist Course training in Liturgy and Scripture, to learn about the changes in the Roman Missal and the Liturgy, and the reasons for such changes. I also developed further knowledge of Scripture, and finally understood the meaning of the term parousia. It really helped me tremendously in planning my lessons.

I am currently in my third year in the Catechist ministry and my second year of teaching. It has not been always a smooth road but I know God has been there for me.

I hope that through this, I can share my experiences as a new junior catechist and reflect on my experiences.

AC