Hi everyone, my name is Amelia, and I am a member of our BEC and the Chinese Apostolate.
Over the past three days during last weekend’s CDM Leaders’ Retreat, I was reminded that leadership is not about doing everything on our own. Instead, it is about allowing Christ to heal, strengthen, and guide us so that we can serve others with love.
One reflection that particularly touched me was Fr. Andrew Xavier’s sharing on Philippians 2:1–11, where he encouraged us to imitate Christ’s humility and servant-hearted leadership, following the example of Christ who humbled Himself even to death on the cross. It was a powerful reminder that authentic leadership is rooted not in authority or recognition, but in self-giving love. Fr Andrew also shared a simple yet profound lesson that has stayed with me: “If there is no expectation, there is no disappointment.” When we serve God without expecting recognition, appreciation, or a particular outcome, we guard our hearts from discouragement. Instead, our focus shifts from seeking rewards to serving faithfully and humbly because we love God and His people.
The Pilgrim Walk, workshops, and role-play sessions during the retreat further taught me that true unity grows when we listen to one another, support each other, and work together despite our differences. I also came to appreciate that caring for our own spiritual well-being is essential if we hope to care for others effectively.
As a young adult in the parish, I leave this retreat with renewed courage to serve with humility, joy, and perseverance, trusting that God will provide the strength needed for every challenge.
I hope to bring these lessons back to our church community by encouraging greater participation, fostering stronger relationships, and helping build a parish where everyone feels welcomed, valued, and united in Christ.
May we continue to grow together as one family, serving faithfully with humility and love for the glory of God.
Thank you, and God bless
