Archdiocese of Singapore

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Available videos on the Episcopal Ordination of Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh of Singapore

The part of the laying on of the hands on the Coadjutor Archbishop by the principal consecrator, Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, and the co-consecrators and the other bishops present. Pouring of the Holy Spirit (passing of the Apostolic authority), and finally the imposition of the bishop’s pontificalia on the Coadjutor Archbishop, and his enthronement at his cathedra with his new coat-of-arms.

Also included is the special anthem composed by the Cathedral Choir master, titled Ut Vivant, in conjunction with the Coadjutor’s motto, Ut vivant (that they may live).

 

The speech made by Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh at the end of the Ordination Mass, thanking all present and all who had a hand in making the event a success, and he laid out the vision he has for the Church in Singapore.

 

(If there is any full video of the event available either on the internet or for purchase, I will update as soon as there is any news available on the matter).

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Reminder : Thanksgiving Mass for the Episcopal Ordination of Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh of Singapore

The Thanksgiving Mass for the Episcopal Ordination of Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh Seng Chye of Singapore.

Time : Sunday, 24 February 2013 at 10 am

Location : Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, ‘A’ Queen Street, City Hall area, Singapore

Do come and show our support to the newly ordained Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh in his thanksgiving Mass at the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd.

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Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore, Archbishop William Goh ordained at MAX Pavilion, EXPO on Friday, 22 February 2013

On the Feast of Chair of Saint Peter the Apostle, in the presence of 14,000 of the faithful and many other invited state and religious dignitaries, and the presence of several bishops of the region, the priests of the Archdiocese of Singapore, and the priests and religious from the region, from Malaysia, and even from India, and Myanmar, Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore, Archbishop William Goh Seng Chye was ordained bishop by the Apostolic Nuncio to Singapore, Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli.

Aiding Archbishop Girelli, as the co-consecrators were Archbishop of Singapore, Archbishop Nicholas Chia, and Metropolitan Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur, Archbishop Murphy Pakiam. Also present, and helped with the ordination were the Metropolitan Archbishop Emeritus of Kota Kinabalu, Archbishop John Lee; his successor, Archbishop John Wong; the Bishop of Penang, Bishop Sebastian Francis, and many other archbishops and bishops from the region.

In his speech at the end of the Mass, the newly ordained Archbishop William Goh thanked all those who had made the Ordination Mass possible, despite the short time period of 55 days since the announcement that he has been made the Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore. He thanked the organising committee for their hard work to ensure that a proper place is secured and everything falls right into place on the day of the event. He showed that the Church in Singapore is vibrant, and can indeed grow even more, and that all of us the faithful, has to be proactive, and reach out to others, and not be passive. He and Archbishop Girelli also warned against the temptations of the modern world, including moral relativism and other forms of relativism.

Now that our Coadjutor Archbishop has finally been ordained, let us all pray for him, that as he begin this new journey, this new ministry as bishop, Archbishop William Goh will continue to be guided and inspired by the Holy Spirit, that through him and his works, our faith in God will continue to be ever strengthened.

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Friday, 22 February 2013 : Feast of Chair of St. Peter the Apostle (Scripture Reflection)

Today, one might ask, why do we celebrate the feast of a chair? Why the chair of St. Peter? As we all should know, that all dioceses in the world has Cathedrals, one in each diocese, and in the Cathedral, there is a special ‘chair’ that only the ordinary or the bishop of the diocese can sit on. This is because that chair is the Cathedra, the bishop’s throne or seat, which represents his authority, which is given from the Lord Himself.

Where does this authority come from? Right, you all should know indeed, that it came eventually, down the centuries and millenia from the early leaders of the Church, who themselves receievd that power and authority from the Apostles, whose leader is Peter, who was then known as Simon, son of Jonah, or Simon Bar-Jona, the fisherman.

Simon answered out of great courage and speak out the truth sincerely about Christ, who is indeed the Messiah and the Son of the living God, who has come to save the world, although maybe none at that time has yet to understand that He has to do this through His suffering and ultimately death on the cross. But indeed, for the great act of faith that Simon showed, Christ entrusted him with His authority and power, as His vicar on earth, simply through the words that He mentioned, that He will give Simon the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and He will build His Church, that is all the faithful in Him, united as one Body, on him as the foundation.

Hence, that is why Christ renamed Simon as Peter, whose Aramaic (the language spoken at the time of Jesus) origin was Kephas/Kepha, which means rock, that was then translated to Greek as Petros, and then to Latin as Petrus, which all means rock. The Gospel indeed has some pun to the word as Christ did say, “You are Peter and on this Rock…”, which one may interpret as the play on the word Petros/Petrus/Kepha, and there are those, who said that the rock does not refer to Peter at all.

No, this cannot be, since that Rock does refer to Peter, and why? It is because of his great faith in Christ, that is like a great rock, will become the most suitable foundation of His Church on this world, for Peter himself later on, as the leader of the Church, rooted himself firmly in Christ, even to his death in Rome.

It does not mean that Peter did not falter in his faith and dedication to the Lord. As everyone should know, that Peter was well-known for his betrayal of the Lord, even after he said during the Last Supper that he would never leave or abandon the Lord, but when Jesus was tried and mocked, and someone suspected Peter of being Christ’s accomplice, he denied Christ three times, out of fear and uncertainty, seeing that the Lord he has always believed in, has now been judged and soon to be sentenced to death.

Nevertheless, it is not Peter’s failures that we should focus on, but rather, what happens after, as he should indeed be a role model to all of us, that after whenever we fall, we must rise up again and rise up ever stronger than before, even stronger than before we fall. It was Peter who led the Apostles in the days after the Crucifixion and the Resurrection of Christ, and it was to him that Christ asked, “Peter, do you love Me.”, also three times.

Just as we often heard indeed in the Bible that God is merciful and willing to forgive all who had erred but yet willing to fully turn themselves back towards Him again, the same thing was what Christ did to Peter. Peter knew that he had been forgiven, and he gave Christ the promise of undying and eternal love, and that he will never fail Him again as before. Christ then entrusted the care of all His sheep in this world, all those who believe in Him, in Peter, whom He then affirm as the leader of all the faithful, and His representative in this world.

It is at that point that Christ entrusted the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and built His Church, which began on Pentecost, with the coming of the Holy Spirit on the Apostles. It was Peter who defended Christ and gave a fiery speech, asking the people to believe in Christ, and caused many to convert to the cause of God, and therefore, marked the very beginning of the Church.

Through Peter, we have many of his successors, who are the Bishops of Rome. Why the Bishop of Rome? This is because, in the established tradition and the letters following the events of the New Testament, Peter would travel to Rome eventually and settled there, before being martyred by the Emperor Nero of the Roman Empire sometime in 67 AD, not long after the other great Apostle Paul, the Apostle of the Gentiles, who is also associated together with the Bishop of Rome.

St. Peter in his great humility, when he was about to be crucified, through which he will face his martyrdom, refused to be crucified in the same way as the Lord did, and thus chose to be crucified upside down. This is what we know now as the ‘upside-down’ cross, or the cross of St. Peter.

Many had misunderstood this ‘upside-down’ as the symbol of the Antichrist, when the Pope, for example Blessed Pope John Paul II utilised it on his chair during his visit to the Holy Land, which in fact is the symbol of his own authority as the successor of St. Peter, and the symbol of Peter’s humility in being crucified upside-down that he would not die the same way as Christ, as he felt unworthy to do so. Now that all of you know about this, tell those who has yet to know about this, that they too may know and not linger in falsehood, but remain in the truth.

The chair of St. Peter can be seen at the back of the High Altar below the famous Holy Spirit stained glass on the walls of St. Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, which was built on the spot where St. Peter was buried after his martyrdom. This chair, which is armless, and made of wood and inlaid with precious metals, contains the materials from the original chair that was known to have been used by St. Peter himself when he was in Rome. In a sense, this was St. Peter’s cathedra, and thus, the very first seat of authority that was present in this world.

Many of the Bishops of Rome who succeeded Peter had been great Popes, and many too had been saints and great saints, contributing greatly to the growth of the Church of Christ to whom they are entrusted to, through Peter. Of course there are also some Popes who had been bad Popes, and were great sinners. We condemn what they did, which in one way or another have done bad to the Church of Christ and to the faithful, due to their failure to faithfully carry out the mission that has been entrusted by Christ to them through Peter.

The Popes, who are the Bishops of Rome, are human too, as St. Peter was, and therefore was also prone to sins and errors as other mankind are, but we had indeed gone a long way since St. Peter was entrusted with the keys of kingdom of heaven. After the Council of Trent, and the succeeding councils, the Church has rediscovered itself, and led by the Pope, who is the leader of all the faithful in Christ, we continue in our mission that Christ had given us, that is to spread the Gospel, the Good News to all, and to baptise everyone in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Let us pray for our Pope, the successor of St. Peter the Apostle, that he will continue to carry out his mission entrusted to Him by Christ, and use the authority he was given to unite all the faithful in Christ. Now that our Pope, our beloved Pope Benedict XVI has decided to step down due to ill health, we pray for him that God will continue to watch over him in his retirement, and we pray for whoever his successor as the Bishop of Rome, St. Peter’s successor, will be. It is out  of the same humility that our Pope has decided to step aside, because he felt that someone else can better fulfill the roles and mission entrusted to the Popes since St. Peter, just like Peter himself humbly asked to be crucified upside-down to not die the way Christ died for the salvation of the world.

St. Peter the Apostle, you to whom Christ entrusted the keys of the kingdom of heaven, and upon whom He built His Church, pray for us, pray for our Pope Benedict XVI, your successor, and his successors, and pray for the new Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore, Msgr. William Goh Seng Chye, who will be ordained today, and who will receive the authority given to him through the endless succession that came from you, and from Christ, who gave you the authority over the Church and the world. Pray for us, St. Peter. Amen.

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Programme of the Episcopal Ordination Mass of Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore, Archbishop William Goh Seng Chye

http://www.catholicnews.sg/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8454:programme-for-ordination-mass&catid=328:episcopal-ordination&Itemid=147 (programme and details of the Mass, including the hymns to be used in the Episcopal Ordination Mass)

PROGRAMME FOR ORDINATION MASS
FRI 22 FEB 2013 AT 7.30PM
SINGAPORE EXPO, THE MAX PAVILION (TMP) AND HALL 9

 

Time Event Remarks
4.00pm Doors open  
6.30pm Praise and Worship  
7.00pm Arrival of Guests  
7.10pm Arrival of Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon and Mrs Menon Welcomed by Archbishop Nicholas Chia, Mr Xavier Wan, Chairman of Organising Committee and Mr Andrew Low, Vice-Chairman of Organising Committee
7.15pm Arrival of DPM, Coordinating Minister for National Security and Minister for Home Affairs Teo Chee Hean and Mrs Teo
7.20pm Arrival of President Tony Tan Keng Yam and Mrs Tan
7.30pm – 10.30pm Mass begins with Entrance Hymns:
1) Priestly People
2) Praise to the Lord
3) The Church’s One Foundation
4) Great is Thy Faithfulness
5) Behold Among Men
6) Great Is Thy Faithfulness
7) Entrance Chant		 Procession of Archbishops and Priests
Greeting, Penitential Rite, Kyrie  
The Gloria  
Collect  
Liturgy of the Word:
1) First Reading 
(1 Peter 5: 1-4)
2) Responsorial Psalm 
(Ps 22)
3) Second Reading 
(2 Cor 5:13-21)		 To be seated
Gospel Acclamation To stand
Gospel (Matthew 16: 13-19)  
Rite of Ordinationbeginning with Hymn Veni Creator Spiritus To stand
Presentation of the Elect  
Reading of the Apostolic Letter and Consent of the People To be seated
Homily Remain seated
Promise of the Elect  
Litany of Supplication To stand
Litany of the Saints To kneel; Non-Catholics may be seated
Laying on of Hands To stand
Book of Gospel  
Prayer of Consecration  
Anointing of the Bishop’s Head
· Chrism
· Bread to clean oil from head
· Zucchetto
· Wash bowl for Consecrator		 Remain standing
Presentation of the Book of Gospels  
Investiture of Bishop
· Ring
· Mitre
· Crozier
Antiphon: Cantate Domino Cantate Novum		  
Procession to Seat of Bishop
· Anthem based on Bishop’s motto		 Remain standing
Kiss of Peace
· Hymn – Make us True Servants		 Seated during singing of hymn
Liturgy of the Eucharist
· Offertory Procession
· Singing of Hymns –
1) Jubilate Deo
(done in 4 languages – Bahasa, English, Mandarin, and Tamil)

2) Take my life and Let it Be
· Preparation of the Altar and The Gifts

 Remain seated
Invitation to Prayer
Prayer over the offerings
Preface		 To stand
Sanctus
Eucharistic Prayer
Memorial acclamation
Great Amen		 To kneel; Non-Catholics may be seated
Lord’s Prayer To stand
Lamb of God To kneel; Non-Catholics may be seated
Communion
Hymns:
1) Ecce Panie
2) I Am the Bread of Life (verses in Bahasa, English, Mandarin, and Tamil)
3) Holy Is the Lord		 To be seated
– Reception of Holy Communion is only for Baptised Catholics
– At this juncture, Priests on stage would be led by wardens to 120 different points within TMP and Hall 9 to distribute Communion
Solemn Blessing
Hymns:
1) Te Deum
2) Magnifcat		 To stand
– Newly ordained Coadjutor Archbishop will walk around TMP and Hall 9 to bless the congregation
Short Address by His Grace Archbishop Nicholas Chia To be seated
Short Address by Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh
Recessional
1) Long Live The Pope
2) We Stand For God		 To stand
Procession of Priests
10.30pm Dispersal of Congregation  
Light Refreshments for VIPs only in Omega Room 1&2
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Reminder : Episcopal Ordination of the Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore, Msgr. William Goh at EXPO tomorrow, Friday, 22 February 2013

The Episcopal Ordination of the Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore, Msgr. William Goh, will be held at the EXPO, Singapore, tomorrow, Friday, 22 February 2013, on the Feast of Chair of Saint Peter the Apostle, beginning at 7.30 pm.

For those who are going for the event, the doors will be open at 4.00 pm, and sessions of prayer will begin at 6.30 pm to prepare for the Ordination Mass which will begin at 7.30 pm. The event will be held at both MAX Pavilion and Hall 9 of EXPO. It is highly advised to take the public transport to the site, as parking spaces may be limited, and to avoid traffic jam during the event.

For more details on tomorrow and the following events after the Ordination Mass, please visit the CatholicNews site at :

http://www.catholicnews.sg/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8332:episcopal-ordination-solemn-vespers-holy-hour-thanksgiving-mass-&catid=328:episcopal-ordination&Itemid=147

 

The official press release on the Episcopal Ordination of the Coadjutor Archbishop can be found here : 

http://www.catholicnews.sg/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8453:press-release-episcopal-ordination-of-msgr-william-goh-as-the-coadjutor-archbishop-of-singapore&catid=328:episcopal-ordination&Itemid=147

(Text below)

 

The Apostolic Nuncio to Singapore, Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli will preside at the Mass for the Episcopal Ordination of Monsignor William Goh as the Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore. He will be assisted by Archbishop of Singapore Nicholas Chia, and Archbishop Murphy Pakiam from Kuala Lumpur (Malaysia). The Ordination will be held on 22ndFebruary at 7.30 pm at the Singapore Expo (The Max Pavilion and Expo Hall 9).

The Ordination will be witnessed by the President  and Mrs Tony Tan Keng Yam, who will be joined by other dignitaries including Deputy Prime Minister and Mrs Teo Chee Hean, Members of Parliament, the President and members of the Inter-Religious Organisation, the clergy, religious and laity from Singapore and around the region.

On Saturday, 23rd February 2013, at 10.30am, Prime Minister and Mrs Lee Hsien Loong, as well as Acting Minister for Culture, Community and Youth, Lawrence Wong, will attend an Official Reception at the Catholic Spirituality Centre at Upper Serangoon Road, together with other VIPs.

Meanwhile, the Mass is expected to attract a capacity crowd of about 14,000 people from across the Catholic community in Singapore. This historic milestone in the calendar of the Singapore Catholic church comes close on the heels of the Vatican’s announcement of Msgr William’s appointment on 29th December, 2012 as the Coadjutor Archbishop

Mgsr William, who is the fourth and current Rector of St Francis Xavier Major Seminary in Singapore, was ordained as a priest on 1st May, 1985 by the late Archbishop Gregory Yong at the Church of the Holy Family. During his 27 years of service as a priest he has distinguished himself as a visionary and change-agent, turning around not just the culture of organisations especially the way seminarians are formed but also the lives of thousands through the Conversion Experience Retreats that he conducts. He is also a persuasive homilist and convincing teacher, drawing large audiences to the weekly spiritual growth talks that he conducts at the Catholic Spirituality Centre and the daily scripture reflections he posts on its website. Hence, the wide interest among many who will come to witness the Mass for the ordination of Msgr William. Among qualities attributed to him are that he is a people’s priest; one who is at once passionate about his ministry and the Church yet compassionate with all those who are wounded and in need of spiritual, emotional and psychological healing. Notwithstanding the many demands on his time, he is always ready to make time for others, often at the expense of his own comfort. He is a unifying figure who firmly subscribes to the Principles of St Augustine of unity in essentials, diversity in non-essentials but in all things, charity.

Msgr William, in sharing his thoughts on his new role said: “I see a powerhouse of bubbling enthusiasm, grace and talent among the Presbyterium and Laity (particularly the youth) that can be harnessed and unleashed to propel the Church forward in this new millennium. Together, we must find new and creative ways to catechize our youth, who are looking for a faith that is personal, real and tangible.  We must harness modern technology to influence the values of society. We must also give greater attention to the family and married life, which is under threat by a world that no longer believes in the sanctity and indissolubility of the Sacrament of Matrimony.  We must protect the institution of the family, which is the first cradle for Catholic spirituality.  The Church must reclaim its voice in influencing world views, without fear, particularly with respect to the universal values of truth and justice. We must continue to steadfastly resist the lure of secularism and relativism which threaten to suppress the voice of God by working assiduously in the areas of inter-religious dialogue and ecumenism. Unless religions unite, faith will be relegated to the private domain of an individual’s life, thereby weakening the impact of religions on society and morality.”

Notwithstanding the issues at large, Msgr William said, “What I hope for above all in my episcopacy is to be both an encouraging and supportive brother to my priests, empowering them in their ministry, and a compassionate and caring father to the laity. We must, therefore, work to becoming a vibrant, faith-filled, visionary and evangelical Church and not be complacent or satisfied with a maintenance Church. This will be achieved not only by me, nor the clergy, religious or just the laity, but together as the entire People of God in unity. Hence, ‘passion’ and ‘compassion’ will be the hallmarks and thrust of my ministry in renewing the Church in Singapore.”

The Ordination Mass
The Ordination Mass will be preceded by half an hour of Praise and Worship at 6.30 pm.

The Episcopal Ordination Mass begins with the procession of Bishops and Priests, followed by the Greeting, Penitential Rite, the Gloria, the Collect and the The Liturgy of the Word.

This will be followed immediately by the Rite of Ordination, when the Elect is presented. The Apostolic Letter is then read and the Consent of the People given. His Excellency, Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, will then deliver a Homily, after which the Elect will make his Promise, followed by the Laying on of Hands on the candidate.

Following this will be the Prayer of Consecration, Anointing of the Bishop’s head and Presentation of the Book of Gospels before the Investiture. During the investiture ceremony, the newly-appointed Bishop will be presented with his ring, the mitre and crozier. The newly ordained Coadjutor Archbishop will then be led to the Seat of Bishop and embraced by the Bishops in a Kiss of Peace.

The Liturgy of the Eucharist will follow, where there will be an Offertory Procession, Holy Communion and Solemn Blessing.

A 322-strong combined church choir from the 31 parishes in Singapore will be in attendance to provide the sacramental music. In addition, 579 lay volunteers drawn from parishes across Singapore will serve in various capacities as altar servers, wardens, ushers, security, public relations and other duties. The Episcopal Ordination Mass will be concelebrated by 17 bishops and 151 priests from Singapore and the region.

As Coadjutor Archbishop

Msgr William will be the second Singapore-born clergyman to hold the office of Archbishop. The Cathedral of the Good Shepherd will be the seat of Coadjutor Archbishop William when the current Archbishop Nicholas Chia retires. Thereafter, Archbishop William will lead the flock of 31 churches (28 parish churches and 3 non- parish churches).  As at October 2012, there are 71 diocesan priests, 71 religious priests, 35 religious brothers and 166 sisters serving the people in different capacities, from parish priests, counsellors, social workers to teachers and nurses.

The Catholic population in Singapore is approximately 303,000, which includes permanent residents and foreigners living and working here.

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Episcopal Ordination of Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh of Singapore, Part I : The Mass and ceremony itself

What is an Episcopal Ordination? It is the event celebrated with a Mass that mark the continuation of the Apostolic ministry to a new bishop, signified most importantly by the laying of hands by other bishops and the presiding bishop (consecrator), and the imposition of the pontificalia or the vestments and items particular to bishops, which are all representative of his ministry as bishop.

I have written this in conjunction with the Episcopal Ordination of the Coadjutor Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Singapore, Archbishop William Goh Seng Chye, which will be held in the EXPO, Singapore on Friday, 22 February 2013, on the Feast of Chair of St. Peter.

 

Some terms :

Consecrator : the main presiding bishop at the Episcopal Ordination, similar to celebrant in the celebration of the Mass. In the case of Friday’s ordination, it will be the Apostolic Nuncio to Singapore, Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli

Co-consecrators : the assistant bishops at the Episcopal Ordination, similar to concelebrant in the celebration of the Mass. In the case of Friday’s ordination, it will be the Archbishop of Singapore, Archbishop Nicholas Chia, and the Metropolitan Archbishop of Kuala Lumpur, Archbishop Murphy Pakiam.

Other bishops present in the Ordination can also help out with the laying of the hands, following that of the consecrator and co-consecrator’s laying of hands.

 

The ceremony itself will begin as a usual Mass would, beginning with the entrance procession. The new bishop to be ordained usually walks in front of the presiding bishop (consecrator), and usually accompanied by two deacons (just as all bishops should, that means the presiding bishop too when available should also have two deacons to accompany him).

Then begin the Mass as usual with the incensing of the altar, the sign of the Cross, the opening address if there is any, and followed by the Penitential Act (I confess to Almighty God…) and the Kyrie (Lord have mercy). Gloria follows after that. One may ask that this is Lenten season where Gloria is not used, but the day of the ordination for this case, 22 February falls on the Feast of Chair of St. Peter where Gloria is used (as is Te Deum later in the ceremony).

 

After Gloria concludes, then it comes to the opening prayer, and then the readings come as per the usual Mass. First Reading, followed by the Psalm, and finally by the Gospel. No Alleluia for this case since it happens during Lent, and at Lent Alleluia is always omitted, so we have the Lenten Gospel Acclamation instead.

After the Gospel, the Ordination ceremony proper begins.

 

The first part begins with usually the singing of the Hymn of the Holy Spirit (Veni Creator Spiritus), with all the verses used. Then after the Hymn is completed, this is followed by the presentation of the Bishop/Archbishop-elect, that is Coadjutor Archbishop-elect William Goh in this case (He is not yet legally and validly bishop at this point).

The presiding bishop can give a homily following the presentation of the Bishop-elect, usually to explain on the ministry of the bishop and the nature of that ministry.

 

Then the promise/vow of the bishop-elect follows, where the new Bishop solemnly vows before God his promise : (In Latin and English)

1. Latin : Antiqua sanctorum Patrum institutio praecipit, ut, qui Episcopus ordinandus est, coram populo interrogetur de proposito fidei servandae et muneris exsequendi.

Vultis ergo, frater carissimus (fratres carissimi if plural), munus nobis ab Apostolis creditum et vobis per impositionem manuum nostrarum tradendum cum gratia Spiritus Sancti usque ad mortem explere?

English : The ancient rule of the holy Fathers ordains that a Bishop-elect is to be questioned in the presence of the people on his resolve to uphold the faith and to discharge his duty.

And so dear brothers, do you resolve by the grace of the Holy Spirit to discharge until death the office entrusted to us by the Apostles, which we are about to pass on to you by the laying on of our hands?

The bishop-elect answers : Volo (English : I do)

 

2. Latin : Vultis Evangelium Christi fideliter et indesinenter praedicare?

English : Do you resolve to preach the Gospel of Christ with constancy and fidelity?

The bishop-elect answers : Volo (English : I do)

 

3. Latin : Vultis depositum fidei, secundum traditionem inde ab Apostolis in Ecclesia semper et ubique servatam, purum et integrum custodire?

English : Do you resolve to guard the deposit of faith, entire and incorrupt, as handed down by the Apostles and preserved in the Church everywhere and at all times?

The bishop-elect answers : Volo (English : I do)

 

4. Latin : Vultis corpus Christi, Ecclesiam eius, aedificare et eius unitate cum Ordine Episcoporum, sub auctoritate successoris beati Petri Apostoli, permanere?

English : Do you resolve to build up the body of Christ, His Church, and to remain in the unity of that body together with the Order of Bishops under the authority of the successor of Saint Peter the Apostle?

The bishop-elect answers : Volo (English : I do)

 

5. Latin : Vultis beati Petri Apostoli successori, obaedientiam fideliter exhibere?

English : Do you resolve to render obedience faithfully to the succesor of the blessed Apostle Peter?

The bishop-elect answers : Volo (English : I do)

 

6. Latin : Vultis plebem Dei sanctam, cum comministris vestris presbyteris et diaconis, ut pii pater, fovere et in viam salutis dirigere?

English : Do you resolve to guide the holy people of God in the way of salvation as devoted father and sustain them with the help of your fellow ministers, the priests, and deacons?

The bishop-elect answers : Volo (English : I do)

 

7. Latin : Vultis pauperibus et peregrinis omnibusque indigentibus propter nomen Domini affabiles et misericordes vos praebere?

English : Do you resolve, for the sake of the Lord’s Name, to be welcoming and merciful to the poor, to strangers, and to all who are in need?

The bishop-elect answers : Volo (English : I do)

 

8. Latin : Vultis oves errantes ut boni pastores requirere et ovili dominico aggregare?

English : Do you resolve as good shepherds to seek out the sheep who stray and gather them into the Lord’s fold?

The bishop-elect answers : Volo (English : I do)

 

9. Latin : Vultis Deum omnipotentem pro populo sancto indesinenter orare et sine reprehensione summi sacerdotii munus explere?

English : Do you resolve to pray without ceasing to Almighty God for the holy people and to carry out the office of high priest without reproach?

The bishop-elect answers : Volo, Deo auxiliante (English : I do, with the help of God)

 

After this, the Litany of the Saints begins, asking the prayer from all the saints, martyrs, and all holy men of God to pray for the new bishop. The bishop-elect prostrate himself on the floor as a sign of humility before God, during the Litany of the Saints.

 

(R = reply) (Here shown both Latin and English versions)

1. Kyrie, eleison                                        R : Kyrie, eleison

Lord, have mercy                                    R : Lord, have mercy

 

2. Christe, eleison                                    R : Christe, eleison

Christ have mercy                                   R : Christ, have mercy

 

3. Kyrie, eleison                                       R : Kyrie, eleison

Lord have mercy                                     R : Lord, have mercy

 

4. Sancta Maria, Mater Dei                  R : ora pro nobis

Holy Mary, Mother of God                  R : pray for us

 

5. Sancte Michael                                    R : ora pro nobis

Saint Michael                                            R : pray for us

 

6. Sancti Angeli Dei                                 R : orate pro nobis

Holy Angels of God                                 R : pray for us

 

7. Sancte Ioannes Baptista                   R : ora pro nobis

Saint John the Baptist                             R : pray for us

 

8. Sancte Ioseph                                        R : ora pro nobis

Saint Joseph                                                R : pray for us

 

9. Sancte Petre                                            R : ora pro nobis

Saint Peter                                                    R : pray for us

 

10. Sancte Paule                                         R : ora pro nobis

Saint Paul                                                      R : pray for us

 

11. Sancte Andrea                                      R : ora pro nobis

Saint Andrew                                               R : pray for us

 

12. Sancte Iacobe                                       R : ora pro nobis

Saint James                                                   R : pray for us

 

13. Sancte Ioannes                                     R : ora pro nobis

Saint John                                                      R : pray for us

 

14. Sancte Thoma                                        R : ora pro nobis

Saint Thomas                                                 R : pray for us

 

15. Sancte Iacobe                                        R : ora pro nobis

Saint James                                                    R : pray for us

 

16. Sancte Philippe                                      R : ora pro nobis

Saint Philip                                                      R : pray for us

 

17. Sancte Bartholomae                             R : ora pro nobis

Saint Bartholomew                                       R : pray for us

 

18. Sancte Matthae                                       R : ora pro nobis

Saint Matthew                                                 R : pray for us

 

19. Sancte Simon                                            R : ora pro nobis

Saint Simon                                                       R : pray for us

 

20. Sancte Thaddae                                       R : ora pro nobis

Saint Thaddeus                                                R : pray for us

 

21. Sancte Matthia                                         R : ora pro nobis

Saint Matthew                                                  R : pray for us

 

22. Sancta Maria Magdalena                      R : ora pro nobis

Saint Mary Magdalene                                  R : pray for us

 

23. Sancte Stephane                                       R : ora pro nobis

Saint Stephen                                                    R : pray for us

 

24. Sancte Ignati Antiochene                     R : ora pro nobis

Saint Ignatius of Antioch                              R : pray for us

 

25. Sancte Laurenti                                         R : ora pro nobis

Saint Lawrence                                                  R : pray for us

 

26. Sanctae Perpetua et Felicitas               R : orate pro nobis

Saint Perpetua and Saint Felicity               R : pray for us

 

27. Sancta Agnes                                              R : ora pro nobis

Saint Agnes                                                         R : pray for us

 

28. Sancte Georgi                                             R : ora pro nobis

Saint George                                                       R : pray for us

 

29. Sancte Fortunate                                      R : ora pro nobis

Saint Fortunatus                                               R : pray for us

 

30. Sancte Gregori                                           R : ora pro nobis

Saint Gregory                                                     R : pray for us

 

31. Sancte Augustine                                      R : ora pro nobis

Saint Augustine                                                R : pray for us

 

32. Sancte Athanasi                                        R : ora pro nobis

Saint Athanasius                                              R : pray for us

 

33. Sancte Basili                                               R : ora pro nobis

Saint Basil                                                            R : pray for us

 

34, Sancte Martine                                          R : ora pro nobis

Saint Martin                                                       R : pray for us

 

35. Sancte Nicolae                                          R : ora pro nobis

Saint Nicholas                                                   R : pray for us

 

36. Sancte Benedicte                                     R : ora pro nobis

Saint Benedict                                                  R : pray for us

 

37. Sancte Francisce et Dominice            R : orate pro nobis

Saint Francis and Saint Dominic               R : pray for us

 

38. Sancte Francisce Xavier                       R : ora pro nobis

Saint Francis Xavier                                      R : pray for us

 

39. Sancte Vincenti de Paul                        R : ora pro nobis

Saint Vincent de Paul                                    R : pray for us

 

40. Sancte Ioannes Maria Vianney         R : ora pro nobis

Saint John Mary Vianney                            R : pray for us

 

41. Sancta Catharina Senensis                   R : ora pro nobis

Saint Catherine of Siena                               R : pray for us

 

42. Sancta Teresia a Iesu                             R : ora pro nobis

Saint Teresa of Jesus                                     R : pray for us

 

43. Omnes Sancti et Sanctae Dei                   R : orate pro nobis

All holy men and women, Saints of God    R : pray for us

 

44. Propitius esto                                           R : libera nos, Domine

Lord, be merciful                                            R : Lord, deliver us, we pray

 

45. Ab omni malo                                           R : libera nos, Domine

From all evil                                                     R : Lord, deliver us, we pray

 

46. Ab omni peccato                                     R : libera nos, Domine

From every sin                                                R : Lord, deliver us, we pray

 

47. A morte perpetua                                    R : libera nos, Domine

From everlasting death                                R : Lord, deliver us, we pray

 

48. Per incarnationem tuam                       R : libera nos, Domine

By Your incarnation                                       R : Lord, deliver us, we pray

 

49. Per mortem et resurrectionem tuam        R :  libera nos, Domine

By Your death and resurrection                        R : Lord, deliver us, we pray

 

50. Per effusionem Spiritus Sancti             R : libera nos, Domine

By the outpouring of the Holy Spirit         R : Lord, deliver us, we pray

 

51. Peccatores                                                    R : Te rogamus, audi nos

Be merciful to us sinners                               R : Lord, we ask You, hear our prayer

 

52. Ut Ecclesiam tuam sanctam regere et conservare digneris

R : Te rogamus, audi nos

Govern and protect your Holy Church

R : Lord, we ask You, hear our prayer

 

53. Ut domnum apostolicum et omnes ecclesiasticos ordines in sancta religione conservare digneris

R : Te rogamus, audi nos

Keep the Pope and all the ordained in faithful service to Your Church

R : Lord, we ask You, hear our prayer

 

54. Ut hos electos benedicere digneris              R : Te rogamus, audi nos

Bless these (this) chosen men (man)                   R : Lord, we ask You, hear our prayer

 

55. Ut hos electos benedicere et santificare digneris

R : Te rogamus, audi nos

Bless and sanctify these (this) chosen men (man)

R : Lord, we ask You, hear our prayer

 

56. Ut hos electos benedicere et sanctificare et consecrare digneris

R : Te rogamus, audi nos

Bless, sanctify, and consecrate these (this) chosen men (man)

R : Lord, we ask You, hear our prayer

 

57. Ut cunctis populis pacem et veram concordiam donare digneris

R : Te rogamus, audi nos

Bring all peoples together in peace and true harmony

R : Lord, we ask You, hear our prayer

 

58. Ut omnis in tribulatione versantibus misericordiam tuam largiri digneris

R : Te rogamus, audi nos

Comfort with Your mercy the troubled and the afflicted

R : Lord, we ask You, hear our prayer

 

59. Ut nosmetipsos in tuo sancto servitio confortare et conservare digneris

R : Te rogamus, audi nos

Strengthen all of us and keep us in Your holy service

R : Lord, we ask You, hear our prayer

 

60. Iesu, Fili Dei vivi                                            R : Te rogamus, audi nos

Jesus, Son of the living God                              R : Lord, we ask You, hear our prayer

 

61. Christe, audi nos                                            R : Christe, audi nos

Christ, hear us                                                        R : Christ, hear us

 

62. Christe, exaudi nos                                      R : Christe, exaudi nos

Christ, graciously hear us                                R : Christ, graciously hear us

 

(The Litany of the Saints is slightly different and longer than the usual one as this one is used for the Episcopal Ordination Mass proper, which contains more prayers for the bishop-elect)

 

Then the presider will pray this prayer after the Litany :

Latin : Propitiare, Domine, supplicationibus nostris, et inclinato super hos famulos tuos cornu gratiae sacerdotalis, benedictionis tuae in eos effunde virtutem. Per Christum Dominum nostrum. Amen.

English : Graciously hear our petitions, o Lord, and pour out upon these, Your servants, the power of Your blessing, flowing from the horn of priestly grace. Through Christ our Lord. Amen.

 

The imposition or laying of hands then follow. Beginning with the consecrator and the co-consecrators, they lay their hands on the bishop-elect’s head, as a sign of the passing down of the Holy Spirit they themselves have received through the Apostolic Succession, from the Apostles, and therefore from Christ.

(During this time, the other bishops in attendance may also lay their hands on the head of the new Bishop as a symbol of the continuing power that came from the Apostles, the unbroken Apostolic Succession from the Apostles themselves, empowering the new Bishop with the same authority and power God has given to the Apostles).

 

Then this is followed by the placing of the Holy Scripture opened up above the head of the new Bishop, as a symbol that the new Bishop will stay true to the Word of God in the Scripture, and will do his best to carry out the will of God, and make the Word of God centre of his life and his mission as the Bishop, as the shepherd of God’s people.

The moment and words that made an Episcopal Ordination valid and legal (when done by the proper authority and in accordance with the Canon Law) are highlighted in bold below. The Principal consecrator then pray together with the co-consecrators and the other bishops over the new Bishop (with the Sacred Scripture above his head).

 

Latin : Deus et Pater Domini nostri Iesu Christi, Pater misericordiarum et Deus totius consolationis, qui in excelsis habeas et humilia respicis, qui cognoscis omnia antequam nascantur, tu qui dedisti in Ecclesia tua normas per verbum gratiae tuae, qui praedestinasti ex principio genus iustorum ab Abraham, qui constituisti principes et sacerdotes, et sanctuarium tuum sine ministerio non dereliquisti, cui ab initio mundi placuit in his quos eligisti glorificari :

Et nunc effunde super hos electos eam virtutem, quae a te est, Spiritum principalem, quem dedisti dilecto Filio tuo Iesu Christo, quem ipse donavit sanctis Apostolis, qui constituerunt Ecclesiam per singula loca ut sanctuarium tuum, in gloriam et laudem indeficientem nominis tui.

Da, cordium cognitor Pater, his servis tuis, quos elegisti ad Episcopatum, ut pascant gregem sanctum tuum, et suum sacerdotium tibi exhibeant sine reprehensione, servientes tibi nocte et die, ut incessanter vultum tuum propitium reddant et offerant dona sanctae Ecclesiae tuae; da ut virtute Spiritus summi sacerdotii habeant potestatem dimittendi peccata secundum mandatum tuum; ut distribuant munera secundum praeceptum tuum et solvant omne vinculum secundum potestatem quam dedisti Apostolis; placeant tibi in mansuetudine et mundo corde, offerentes tibi odorem suavitatis, per Filium tuum Iesum Christum, per quem tibi gloria et potentia et honor, cum Spiritu Sancto in sancta Ecclesia et nunc et in saecula saeculorum. Amen.

 

English : God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, Father of mercies and God of all consolation, who dwell on high and look on the lowly, who know all things before they come to be; and who laid down observances in Your Church through the word of Your grace; who from the beginning, foreordained a nation of the just, born of Abraham; who established rulers and priests and did not leave Your sanctuary without ministers, and who, from the foundation of the world, were pleased to be glorified in those You have chosen :

Pour out now upon these (this) chosen ones (one) that power which is from You, the Spirit of governance whom You gave to Your beloved Son, Jesus Christ, the Spirit whom He bestowed upon the holy Apostles, who established the Church in each place as Your sanctuary for the glory and unceasing praise of Your Name.

Grant, o Father, knower of all hearts, that these (this), Your servant(s), whom You have chosen for the office of Bishop may shepherd Your holy flock, Serving You night and day, may they fulfill before You without reproach the ministry of the High Priesthood; so that, always gaining Your favour, they (he) may offer up the gifts of Your Holy Church. Grant that, by the power of the Spirit of the High Priesthood, they may have the power to forgive sins according to Your command, assign offices according to Your decree, and loose every bond according to the power given by You to the Apostles. May they please You by their meekness and purity of heart, presenting a fragrant offering in You, through Your Son, Jesus Christ, through whom glory and power and honor are Yours with the Holy Spirit in the Holy Church, now and forever. Amen.

 

After this, the consecrator bishop will anoint the hands of the new Bishop with the sacred chrism oil, signifying that the bishop is the anointed one of God, given by God the authority of the High Priesthood of Christ, which he share.

Latin : Deus, qui summi Christi sacerdotii participem te effecit, ipse te mysticae delibutionis liquore perfundat, et spiritualis benedictionis ubertate fecundet.

English : May God, who has made you a sharer in the High Priesthood of Christ, Himself pour out upon you the oil of mystical anointing and make you fruitful with an abundance of spiritual blessings.

 

Then, the new Bishop receives the Book of the Gospels (Evangelium), the Word of God, to remind him of his duty to teach and preach the word of God to his flock.

Latin : Accipe Evangelium et verbum Dei praedica in omni patientia et doctrina.

English : Receive the Gospel and preach the word of God with all patience and sound teaching.

 

Then, the new Bishop receives the Episcopal ring, the sign that he is married to God and His Holy Church, and thus the flock he is entrusted to.

Latin : Accipe anulum, fidei signaculum : et sponsam Dei, sanctam Ecclesiam, intemerata fide orantus, illibate custodi.

English : Receive this ring, the seal of fidelity : adorned with undefiled faith, preserve unblemished the bride of God, the holy Church.

 

Then, the new Bishop receives the mitre, the symbol of authority, that he now teach as the teacher of faith in the authority given to Him by Christ, and as a crown of glory and holiness given to him by Christ.

Latin : Accipe mitram, et clarescat in te splendor sanctitatis, ut cum apparuerit princeps pastorum, immarcescibilem gloriae coronam percipere merearis.

English : Receive the mitre, and may the splendour of holiness shine forth in you, so that when the Chief Shepherd appears you may deserve to receive from Him an unfading crown of glory.

 

Finally, the new Bishop receives the pastoral crosier, which is a symbol of his pastoral office as a shepherd to God’s people, the sheep entrusted to him to care, and to govern through the authority given to him by the Holy Spirit.

Latin : Accipe baculum, pastoralis muneris signum, et attende universo gregi, in quo te Spiritus Sanctus posuit Episcopum regere Ecclesiam Dei.

English : Receive the crosier, the sign of your pastoral office, and keep watch over the whole flock in which the Holy Spirit has placed you as Bishop to govern the Church of God.

 

After all are done, the new Bishop is presented to the people and all the faithful. An appropriate hymn, or hymn in honour of the new Bishop may be sung or played at this time. Then the Mass proceeds as normal with the Creed.

 

The Mass and the Eucharist, and then the Communion proceed as it is in a normal Mass. Then, after the concluding prayer (Prayer after Communion) is said, Te Deum is usually sung. Te Deum as the hymn that glorifies God and usually sang at events including ordinations, and show that through the ordination of this new bishop, God’s glory is made manifest in this world.

 

Te Deum

 

Te Deum laudamus, te Dominum confitemur

We praise You, o God, we acclaim You as the Lord.

 

Te aeternum Patrem, omnis terra veneratur.

Everlasting Father, all the world bows down before You.

 

Tibi omnes angeli, tibi caeli et universae potestatis;

All the angels sing Your praise, the hosts of heaven and all the angelic powers;

 

tibi cherubim et seraphim incessabili voce proclamant :

all the cherubim and seraphim call out to You in unending song :

 

Sanctus, Sanctus, Sanctus Dominus Deus Sabaoth.

Holy, Holy, Holy, is the Lord of God of the angelic hosts.

 

Pleni sunt caeli et terra, maiestatis gloriae tuae.

The heavens and the earth are filled with Your majesty and glory.

 

Te gloriosus Apostolorum chorus,

The glorious band of apostles,

 

te prophetarum laudabilis numerus,

the noble company of prophets,

 

te martyrum candidatus laudat exercitus.

the marytrs who shed their blood for Christ, all sing Your praise.

 

Te per orbem terrarum sancta confitetur Ecclesia,

And to the ends of the earth, Your Holy Church proclaims her faith in You,

 

Patrem immensae maiestatis;

Father, whose majesty is boundless;

 

venerandum  tuum verum et unicum Filium;

Your true and only Son, who is to be adored;

 

Sanctum quoque Paraclitum Spiritum.

the Holy Spirit sent to be our Advocate.

 

Tu rex gloriae, Christe.

You, Christ, are the King of glory.

 

Tu Patris sempiternus es Filius.

Son of the Eternal Father.

 

Tu, ad liberandum suscepturus hominem, non horruisti Virginis uterum.

When You took our nature to save mankind, You did not shrink from birth in the Virgin’s womb.

 

Tu, devicto mortis aculeo, aperuisti credentibus regna caelorum.

You overcame the power of death, opening the Father’s kingdom to all who believe in You.

 

Tu ad dexteram Dei sedes, in gloria Patris.

Enthroned at God’s right hand, in the glory of the Father.

 

Iudex crederis esse venturus.

You will come in judgement according to Your promise.

 

Te ergo quaesumus, tuis famulis subveni, quos pretioso sanguine redemisti.

You redeemed Your people by Your Precious Blood. Come, we implore You, to our aid.

 

Aeterna fac cum sanctis tuis in gloria numerari.

Grant us with the saints, a place in eternal glory.

 

Then the Mass ends with the final blessing and dismissal. Thus ends the Episcopal Ordination Mass. The guide above is not conclusive, as there may be variations in the wording and the hymn depending on the local needs and customs.

 

Let us pray for the Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore, Msgr. William Goh, that God will truly pour down on him, the Holy Spirit, that he will be a great shepherd to His people, in His Church in Singapore. Amen.

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A great article from the weekly bulletin of Church of St. Francis Xavier, Archdiocese of Singapore on Chinese New Year and Its Significance to Chinese Christians

http://www.catholicnews.sg/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8402:jesus-and-qyuq-abundance&catid=187:news-mosaic&Itemid=119

This article was excellently written, especially when trying to harmonise and find the common ground between the Chinese culture and the Christian faith, which although they have their fundamental differences, there are similarities that we should not ignore.

It is fitting indeed that Chinese New Year celebration this year falls on Sunday, 10 February 2013, which is also the 5th Sunday of Ordinary Time, whose readings have parallels with the core of the Chinese New Year celebrations.

Please spend some time to read this article, and especially for Chinese Christians out there, to make the Chinese New Year celebrations we have, into a truly Christian celebration. Not just of partying and feasting, but also to show and spread love and joy, and sharing them with one another, giving thanks to Christ who made all things possible.

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An excellent article on what a Coadjutor Archbishop/Bishop is (from the Church of Our Lady of Perpetual Succour, Archdiocese of Singapore)

http://www.olps.sg/understanding-term-coadjutor-bishop-449#.URNZ46WyCWV

The Article :

On December 29, 2012 the Vatican announced that Rev Msgr William Goh has been appointed as Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore. What does this term “Coadjutor” mean? Read on to find out!

It’s been all over the catholic news in Singapore since our year of 2013 begun – the news of Rev Msgr William Goh being appointed Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore. In order to understand what this all means, read this article which explains in depth what a “Coadjutor bishop” is, what he does, and why he is appointed.

What is Coadjutor?

In terms of Sacramental Character or Sacramental “powers”, a Coadjutor bishop is truly a bishop, for he receives Episcopal consecration just like the diocesan bishop. He therefore has the power validly to ordain priests, to confirm, and to consecrate other bishops.

In terms of ecclesial “title”, the Coadjutor has similar a title to the resident Bishop, or in the case of our Archdiocese, the Coadjutor is similar in ecclesial honour to our Archbishop.

However, the jurisdiction, or governing authority, of a Coadjutor bishop is another matter. Within a given diocese, the existing diocesan bishop alone has full responsibility for the entire diocese which the Pope has entrusted to his care (cf Paul VI, Muto proprio, Pastorale manus, on the powers and privileges granted to bishops, 30 November 1963. AAS 56 (1964) c. 381.1).

A Coadjutor bishop, therefore, is not to be construed as a co-leader of a diocese, as he does not have full authority over that diocese—only the existing diocesan bishop himself does.

A coadjutor bishop, as described in canon 403.3, also is given special faculties. In a sense a Coadjutor bishop can be given governing power, but it is generally limited to certain geographic sections of the diocese, or to certain aspects of it. Regardless of a Coadjutor bishop’s duties, however, the existing diocesan bishop retains ultimate authority

Why appoint a “Coadjutor Bishop”?

The exact time when a bishop will be replaced by a successor is not always predictable, of course. Obviously, a diocesan bishop can always die unexpectedly, or find himself obliged to resign (for medical or other reasons) with relatively short notice.

In these cases, there is normally a period of time—ranging from months to even years, depending on the circumstances—when the diocese is without any bishop at all. The code provides strict rules about who has authority, and in which situations, during this vacancy (cf. Muto proprio, Pastorale manus cc. 416-430).

But often it is easy for Rome to foresee that a diocesan bishop will need to step down. Usually this is due to the bishop’s age. Diocesan bishops are requested to submit their resignation to the Holy Father when they reach their 75th birthday (c. 401.1).

The Pope is not, however, required to accept it, and he may choose to extend the bishop’s tenure in his diocese for many more years if he sees fit (and, of course, if the health of that diocesan bishop permits). But the Pope can, and frequently does, accept bishops’ resignations as soon as they are submitted—and in these cases a successor naturally has to be chosen as soon as possible.

In some case, the Holy Father may decide to pre-empt the resignation of the existing bishop, and after the due process of selection of a new bishop, he may name a coadjutor bishop for Bishop X’s diocese right now.

What are the benefits?

For instance, the coadjutor bishop already knows that in June, Bishop X will resign and he himself will be the new diocesan bishop. Between then and now, this gives the coadjutor bishop a period of several months to become acquainted with the diocese, its people and its problems—and since the soon-to-be-retired diocesan bishop is still present, he can give his successor-to-be some pointers!

What are the formalities required of a “coadjutor bishop” (cf Paul VI, Muto proprio, Pastorale manus, on the powers and privileges granted to bishops, 30 November 1963. AAS 56 (1964) c. 381.1):

The Coadjutor needs to formally “take office”

Can. 404 §1 The coadjutor Bishop takes possession of his office when, either personally or by proxy, he shows the apostolic letters of appointment to the diocesan Bishop and the college of consultors, in the presence of the chancellor of the curia, who makes a record of the fact.

§3 If the diocesan Bishop is wholly impeded, it is sufficient that either the coadjutor Bishop or the auxiliary Bishop show their apostolic letters of appointment to the college of consultors, in the presence of the chancellor of the curia.

He undertakes responsibilities and appointments

Can. 405 §1 The coadjutor Bishop and the auxiliary Bishop have the obligations and the rights which are determined by the provisions of the following canons and defined in their letters of appointment.

§2 The coadjutor Bishop, or the auxiliary Bishop mentioned in can. 403 §2, assists the diocesan Bishop in the entire governance of the diocese, and takes his place when he is absent or impeded.

Can. 406 §1 The coadjutor Bishop in can. 403 §2, is to be appointed a Vicar general by the diocesan Bishop. The diocesan Bishop is to entrust to him, in preference to others, those things which by law require a special mandate.

When dealing in matters requiring decisions

Can. 407 §1 For the greatest present and future good of the diocese, the diocesan Bishop, the coadjutor can. 403 §2, are to consult with each other on matters of greater importance.

§2 In assessing matters of greater importance, particularly those of a pastoral nature, the diocesan Bishop is to consult the auxiliary Bishop before all others.

§3 The coadjutor Bishop since they are called to share in the cares of the diocesan Bishop, should so exercise their office that they act and think in accord with him.

The coadjutor’s liturgical and pastoral functions

Can. 408 §1 As often as they are requested to do so by the diocesan Bishop, a coadjutor Bishop are obliged to perform those pontifical and other functions to which the diocesan Bishop is bound.

§2 Those episcopal rights and functions which the coadjutor can exercise are not habitually to be entrusted to another by the diocesan Bishop.

He has right to succession

Can. 409 §1 When the episcopal see falls vacant, the coadjutor immediately becomes the Bishop of the diocese for which he was appointed, provided he has lawfully taken possession.

Where must he reside

Can. 410 The coadjutor Bishop and the auxiliary Bishop are bound, like the diocesan Bishop, to reside in the diocese. Other than for the fulfilment of some duty outside the diocese, or for holidays, which are not to be longer than one month, they may not be away from the diocese except for a brief period.

Episcopal Ordination Mass & Reception

The Episcopal Mass and Reception in conjunction with the upcoming Ordination of our Coadjutor Archbishop, Rev Msgr William Goh will be held as follows:

EPISCOPAL ORDINATION MASS
Date : Friday 22 Feb 2013
Time : 7.30 pm
Venue : Singapore Expo (The Max Pavilion and Exhibition Hall 9)
1 Expo Drive, Singapore 486150
Presider : The Apostolic Nuncio to Singapore, Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli & assisted by our Archbishop Nicholas Chia and Archbishop Murphy Pakiam from Kuala Lumpur
Admission : Tickets will be allocated to Parishes by mid-Feb 2013
Dress Code : Smart casual

GENERAL RECEPTION (HIGH TEA)
Date : Saturday 23 Feb 2013
Time : 2.00 pm to 5.00 pm
Venue : Catholic Spirituality Centre
1261 Upper Serangoon Road, Singapore 534796
Admission : No tickets required. Open to ALL parishioners to meet the new Coadjutor Archbishop
Dress Code : Smart casual

View article on Catholic News

OUR WISH FOR OUR COADJUTOR BISHOP

The Parishioners at Our Lady of Perpetual Succour Church sends their heartiest congratulations and good wishes to Coadjutor Archbishop, Rev Msgr William Goh on his Episcopal Ordination.

We pray that the wisdom and strength of the Holy Spirit will be with him as he takes on the role as Shepherd for the Church in the Archdiocese of Singapore. May the good Lord Bless, guide and protect him always!

My Personal Comments and Additions: 

Therefore, in simple summary, coadjutors are successors to the diocesan bishop, while auxiliaries are helpers to the diocesan bishop. This does not mean that auxiliary bishops cannot be selected as the successor by the Pope, but it means that this kind of succession is not automatic, whereas coadjutors are guaranteed the succession (automatic).

But coadjutors actually do not always succeed the diocesan bishop, as in some cases, some coadjutors actually died before the diocesan bishop resigned, and therefore never succeeded as the rightful diocesan bishop. In some other cases, coadjutor of certain diocese may be reassigned as a bishop/archbishop of another diocese/archdiocese before their succession).

Lastly, as there are still confusion on the nature of coadjutor archbishop’s office, they are no longer assigned any titular see, which is a formerly active diocese that had been suppressed due to lack of Christians or historical reasons (Muslim conquest, etc., which is why many titular sees are actually ancient dioceses in North Africa and Eastern Mediterranean region), and then restored as a titular diocese.

Auxiliary bishops are assigned a titular see upon their appointment as auxiliary, and coadjutor bishop/archbishop too were once (before around 1970) assigned a titular see upon their appointment. However, in present practice, coadjutors are named as Coadjutor Bishop/Archbishop of the diocese/archdiocese that they are going to succeed in (example : Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore (Archdiocese), William Goh), and no titular see is assigned to the coadjutor.

I hope these simple explanations do help many who still have questions in understanding more on the office of the bishop and his helpers (and successor).

+Ut Omnes Unum Sint, ad Maiorem Dei Gloriam+

(That they all may be One, for the greater glory of God)

by

Update on the Episcopal Ordination event of Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore, Msgr. William Goh

http://www.catholicnews.sg/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=8332:episcopal-ordination-solemn-vespers-holy-hour-thanksgiving-mass-&catid=328:episcopal-ordination&Itemid=147

Solemn Vespers and Holy Hour to prepare for the Episcopal Ordination :

Sunday, 17 February 2013, Church of the Risen Christ, at 7.30 pm

Episcopal Ordination Mass of Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh :

Friday, 22 February 2013, EXPO Hall 9 and Max Pavillion, 7.30 pm

Episcopal Ordination Reception :

Saturday, 23 February 2013, Catholic Spirituality Centre, 2 pm – 5 pm

Thanksgiving Mass at Cathedral of the Good Shepherd :

Sunday, 24 February 2013, Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, 10 am