Novena Preaching @ Novena Church

The Power of Paradigm Shift through God's eyes - from "complaint" to compassion

Today we reflect on Romans12:2: ‘Do not be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may prove what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect.’ Stephen Covey talks about a paradigm shift where we change our thinking and approach to life, a shift from self-focus to compassion for others. We see that in our lady, who had no answer for her important question ‘How can this be?’ , but responded in faith- ‘Let it be to me according to your word.’ A paradigm shift, from fear to faith, from self-focus to compassion, from control to surrender. Similarly, we should: 1.Change our thinking in daily life 2.Consider what it means to show compassion. Our minds are cluttered and focused on so many things in our lives that we fail to notice our struggling neighbour. We should be mindful that small acts of kindness make a person feel appreciated, seen and not sidelines. It is an opportunity for us to show Christ’s love and compassion to them. As Maya Angelou says: ‘People often forget what you say or what you do, nut they will remember how you made them feel.’ - Saturday Novena Devotion by Br. Celestine Toh, C.Ss.R. (13 June 2026)

Seeing the Face of God: Lessons from a Banana Peel

Fr. Glenn reflected on Jesus' mission in Luke's Gospel: "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me...to bring good news to the poor." He illustrated this with a moving story of a nine-year-old boy named Pedro, though hungry himself, catches a fallen banana, and gives it whole to an elderly church cleaner, eating only the peel. A watching nun was struck by what she called "the face of God." God's covenant, Fr. Glenn reminds us, has always leaned toward the less fortunate, the sick, and the forgotten. In a world driven by wealth and self-interest, he challenged us to ask, "What is it all for?" and for those who have "the have-nots that God may be on their side too?" Like Mary in the Magnificat, we are called to lift up the lowly and trust in her loving intercession. - Saturday Novena Devotion by Fr. Glenn de Cruz, C.Ss.R. (6 June 2026)

Behold your Mother

Love has many meanings and perspectives but Mother Mary‘s love is always unwavering. She cares for us, guides us and loves us. She is a mother who never abandons us even when we stray. What is so unique about Mother Mary’s love? Mother Mary has a very natural desire to help everyone. At the wedding at Cana, she noticed that they had ran out of wine and simply went to Jesus and said, “They have no wine.” Similarly, Mother Mary sees our needs and goes to Jesus and intercedes for us on our behalf. Mary is our advocate who intercedes for us. When we face difficulty and challenges, with trust and confidence we know that she is always with us. Mother Mary’s maternal love remains unshaken, always pointing us towards her son, Jesus. - Saturday Novena Devotion by Br. Celestine Toh, C.Ss.R. (30 May 2026)

Everyday Pentecost - Are we allowing the Holy Spirit to find a Home in us?

In this homily, Fr. Peter reflects on the Feast of Pentecost as "not locked in time or space or history, but...an event that continues to unfold" in the lives of believers today. Pentecost marks the powerful outpouring of the Holy Spirit to empower believers. Fr. Peter emphasizes that the Holy Spirit's primary role is to constantly remind us of Jesus' teachings, requiring us to maintain an active openness of mind and heart. At the Annunciation, Mary allowed the Holy Spirit to work "in her mind, in her heart, and in her body." Likewise, we are invited to be like our Blessed Mother so as to allow the Holy Spirit to work within us. In this homily, we are also encouraged to examine the fruits of the Spirit, such as patience, kindness, and humility, in our daily lives to discern God's active presence within. Pentecost is a call to continual spiritual growth and transformation into holiness. - Saturday Novena Devotion by Fr. Peter Wee, C.Ss.R. (23 May 2026)

Do not Judge but see as God sees.

Br. Albert reflects on Jesus' words, “Do not judge.” He clarifies that this does not mean ignoring wrongdoing, but to avoid pride, harshness, and self-righteousness. People often judge quickly, unaware of others' hidden struggles like grief, fear, or exhaustion. Instead of condemnation, we are called to emulate Jesus, who welcomed sinners with mercy and compassion. Bro Albert also points to the Blessed Virgin Mary, who endured misunderstanding and judgment herself, yet responded with humility, gentleness, and trust in God. Ultimately, the homily reminds us that true holiness lies in loving as God loves, rather than criticizing others. As we journey through the week, may we learn to see others with greater patience, mercy, and understanding and remembering how deeply God has first down mercy to us. - Saturday Novena Devotion by Br. Albert Khoo, C.Ss.R. (16 May 2026)