The official video of highlights on the Episcopal Ordination of the Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh of Singapore at MAX Pavilion, EXPO, Singapore on Friday, 22 February 2013. Released by PixelMusica, the official photographer and videographer of the event.
I am still waiting and hoping for them to release the full video coverage of the Episcopal Ordination.
In my personal opinion, why our beloved Pope Benedict XVI, now Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI, had decided to step down from his position and relinquish the Papacy, is because of three main factors and events that potentially play major roles in shaping his decision. All of these factors are tied to the first factor, that is his health.
Here are the three factors and events that in my opinion made our Pope Emeritus did what he had done :
1. Health : The Pope’s failing health due to his old age is likely the main reason why he had decided to relinquish the Papacy. Although indeed, he is now at 85 being much more vigorous as compared to Blessed Pope John Paul II’s last years, but as the Pope has great tasks to be done, for the sake of the Lord, and His people, Pope Benedict chose humility and step aside for someone else to take over the good works he had started.
He realised that his increasing difficulty in walking, most likely due to osteoarthritis and the problems with his vision will eventually impair him and preventing him from exercising his ministry as the Bishop of Rome. It has also been reported that Pope Benedict too suffers from Parkinson’s, although likely a mild one or one that is still at an early stage. This disease is well known for the one that debilitated Blessed Pope John Paul II, and Pope Benedict, being very close to the previous Pope, would really want to avoid another of many years of debilitation, where the Pope instead of leading directly the Church, had to delegate most of his works due to his disabilities. It is a matter of choice of course. Blessed John Paul II chose to persevere to show us how suffering for the sake of the Lord is like, and our beloved Benedict XVI stepped down to show us what humility and virtue is like.
2. WYD (World Youth Day) 2013 : The World Youth Day has been scheduled to occur in July 2013. It would have been in 2014, but because it will be held in Brazil, which will host the World Cup event in 2014, it was decided to hold the World Youth Day a year earlier. As the Pope’s health has made doctors to advise him strongly against transatlantic and difficult journeys, which would have limited him from visiting any countries outside of Europe, or even Italy in the coming years.
In 2012, his visits had been limited to Mexico, Cuba, and Lebanon, with only two major visits as opposed to the usual four or five visits per year, a clear sign that the Pope’s health is increasingly frail to travel far beyond Rome. As the World Youth Day 2013 will be held in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, it is also possible that our beloved Benedict XVI chose to step aside that a more capable and vigorous new Pope can go instead to the event, that the new Pope can fully lead the event without the disabilities that increasingly had debilitated our beloved Benedict XVI.
3. Asia, the Church in Asia : Although Pope Benedict XVI had been known as someone who is particularly very attentive to the problems that the Church is facing in Europe and the West in general, which resulted in his numerous visits to the countries mostly in Europe, but he has also made several visits to countries in Latin America and Africa. Many would have criticised him for leaving out Asia, as although Middle Eastern countries like Jordan, Lebanon, Turkey and Israel had been visited rather often in his short pontificate, but he had yet to visit South Asia, Southeast Asia, and East Asia, where the Church, just as in Africa, had been growing very, very rapidly.
The Pope in fact, loved the Church in Asia, particularly the Church in China, which he had tirelessly worked at, in order that the believers in Christ there can be fully reintegrated into the One Body of the Universal Church, free from any form of external and governmental interventions.
Azerbaijan in Central Asia, was the last country in Central Asia visited by a Pope in 2002. But to truly look into Asia, we should go deeper into South Asia, that is India, and further east. The last time a Pope visited India and South Asia was in 1999 or 14 years ago, and the last time a Pope visited Southeast Asia was in 1995 (World Youth Day 1995, Manila, Philippines) or 18 years ago; and for East Asia, the last Papal visit was to Korea in 1989 or 24 years ago.
Several countries in Asia such as Singapore, Indonesia, Korea, Philippines, and some other Asian countries had also been graced with Papal visits only once or twice in the entire history of the Church, also owing to the recent expansion of the Church to Asia and that only beginning with Pope Paul VI, that the Pope began to travel again outside Rome and Italy after quite some time. Therefore, due to Pope Benedict XVI’s love for the Church, both in the elder Europe and the younger Church in Asia, and already that his debilitation had made him difficult to make transatlantic visits, including the upcoming World Youth Day in Brazil, but a travel plan to Asia would have made it much more difficult.
A younger and healthier Pope therefore will be able to visit Asia (South, Southeast, East Asia) perhaps as early as this year or next year, 2014. This is however not to say that an Asian Pope will be elected, just yet. The time has not come yet in this election for an Asian Pope. Only in the next election, which hopefully will be held in about a decade from now or more, that the first Asian Pope may be possibly elected.
In the end, it is Pope Benedict XVI’s love for God, and God’s people in the Church that made him to decide to step aside for the good of the Church and the good of God’s mission in this world. However, this is not at all interpreted that it will be permanently so or that such a stepping down will be customary for the Popes. The Papacy is not an office, and not an institution, which for example like the Archbishop of Canterbury of the Anglicans, which is rotated after every number of years in manner akin to the secular and the worldly prime ministers and presidents. No, the Bishop of Rome’s position, as Christ’s only Vicar on this world is far beyond that. Only the Pope himself can decide when and if he will resign at all, and only in extreme cases should this be done.
Let us all pray therefore for our beloved Pope Emeritus, His Holiness Benedict XVI, that God will continue to look after him in his retirement, that through his new life dedicated in prayer, he can lead the Church with the new Pope, his successor, whom we also pray for, to fight against the evils of this world. We also pray for those who attack the Pope, the institution of our Church, and those who attack the faithful in Christ, that first we forgive them, and ask the Lord to enlighten their hearts, that they will learn the truth about His Church and its teachings, that they too will believe and be saved through the One, Holy, Catholic, and Apostolic Church.
May God bless all of us, bless His One and Universal Church, and bless the whole world. Amen!
Official video by PixelMusica on the Speech of Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh Seng Chye of Singapore at the Episcopal Ordination at MAX Pavilion, EXPO, Singapore, on Friday, 22 February 2013, the Feast of Chair of Saint Peter the Apostle.
The Speech :
“President Tony Tan;
Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, Apostolic Nuncio to Singapore;
Deputy Prime Minister Teo Chee Hean;
Archbishop Nicholas Chia;
Fellow Archbishops and Bishops;
Chief Justice Sundaresh Menon;
Members of Parliament;
Esteemed heads of Interreligious organisations;
My fellow priests, religious, and seminarians;
Relatives and friends.
Every successful event requires many hours of hard work, particularly so for an event of this scale and significance, even more so for one that was put together under the shadow of many seemingly impossible odds. But we are people of great faith. At least, I can vouch for the organising committee. Not only did they do everything within their power to move mountains, but they stormed heaven and earth, working tirelessly with the countless hands behind the scenes to turn this event within a span of just fifty-five days.
Truly, this event has been occasion to manifest the generosity and charisms of the people, all working together as one Body in Christ. It is indeed a privilege and a joy to behold the power and the glory of God in turning water into wine, in situations that seem near impossible by human reckoning. I cannot begin to thank everyone who has made this event so memorable for me. The list is long, and the night is short, and the trains would not wait.
So, I will not launch into a litany of thanks. But at least allow me to mention a few groups of people without whose support and blessings, we would not be here tonight. First of all, I must give glory to God, for He has not abandoned His flock, and has blessed the Church of Singapore with the gift of renewal. I am humbled that He has appointed me to shepherd and build on the work of my predecessors, in spite of my unworthiness and inadequacies, a sinner among men. I must also thank our blessed Mother, for drawing me near to her Son, guiding and shielding me with mental protection ever since I was young.
I was particularly honoured to have the President of Singapore, Dr. Tony Tan; the Deputy Prime Minister, Mr. Teo Chee Hean; Chief Justice, Sundaresh Menon; leaders and representatives from other Christian communions or churches, and heads of the interreligious organisations, graced this evening’s Episcopal Ordination with their presence. Thank you for celebrating and supporting this momentous event of the Catholic Church in Singapore.
Next, I wish to express my gratitude to His Grace Archbishop Nicholas Chia, who has given me so many opportunities to grow in faith, always supporting me in my ministry. I thank him for his guidance, support, and fatherly love. I knew he will continue to level the path for me in the transition period to leadership of the Church. I would also like to thank the Apostolic Nuncio, His Excellency Archbishop Leopoldo Girelli, for agreeing to be the Principal Consecrator. My gratitude also goes with His Grace Archbishop Nicholas Chia and Archbishop Tan Sri Murphy Pakiam, for co-consecrating me at my ordination.
My heartfelt thanks to all the bishops of the region, and all my brother priests from Singapore, Malaysia, and India, and Myanmar, for concelebrating the Mass with me. I am grateful that you have made time to pray and celebrate with me in spite of your tight schedules. Distance has not hindered you from showing me your fraternal support. Let us give thanks to all these people.
My great appreciation goes also to the organising committee. They don’t want me to name them. Who deliberated and despite the great challenges of planning and executing the ordination within such a short time frame, forged courageously ahead with 22 February 2013 date. Many of the members sacrificed their time and precious sleep, often meeting into the night, even after a hard day’s work at the office. Truly, truly I can’t thank them enough. They have won my admiration and confidence. Thank you.
As I have said, they don’t want their names to be mentioned. So we give glory to God for them. The first of the many challenges was to find suitable venue at short notice to accomodate 14,000 people. God however had sent many angels to make it possible. I must thank the many government departments. In particular, the traffic and security agencies, and the Singapore EXPO, for their critical logistic support in securing the venue and ensuring a smooth execution of the event.
Of course, I must thank the various ministry from churches all over Singapore, who joined forces to form the combined choir, and served as the liturgy ministers, altar servers, wardens, hospitality ministers. My brother priests, who have provided valuable guidance, and support to the various committees to ensure the proper liturgical and other Church protocols were observed.
The young and energetic team of designers, from the youth ministry, Amplify! and their associates, who helped with all the design works, including my coat-of-arms, and the souvenir magazine.
The team of professional photographers and videographers who so freely and generously give of their talent, time, and rights to intellectual property, and you the faithful for joining me in this glorious occasion.
In a special way, I must thank my late mother, whom I believe is instrumental in inspiring and nurturing my vocation, because of her deep prayer life, faith, and love, for blessed Mother. I want to thank my brothers, and I want to thank my sister, Anne. Particularly, for their constant support, and understanding, and for looking after the family.
To the many individuals and groups who had contributed in one way or another, in kind and in spirit, known and refusing to be known, who gave their all joyfully, let me say a big thank you.
I know many of you have also been praying for me, individually, and in community, first that I would not be made bishop, because you want me to continue with the retreats. Then, when that was not to be, praying, fasting, and offering sacrifices that I would be a good shepherd, persevering in the trials that must come my way. I am deeply touched and edified. Fervent and constant prayer, and I repeat, fervent and constant prayer, would be the best gift you can give to me. For without prayers, I would not be able to be a good, wise, and holy shepherd, after the heart of Christ.
I too pray, that I would be worthy of my appointment, that in union with Christ, I would remain faithful to the ministry of the Apostles entrusted to me. Trusting and relying, not on my own strength, but in God’s infinite wisdom and power, that I’ll bring everything to completion according to His Divine plan and purpose. Indeed, in this time of mounting secularism and relativism, as our Nuncio has mentioned in his homily. A mist of threat of an Antichrist, anti-establishment era, there is much that we as the Church can do and must do. That is to share the Gospel values, and to make Christ known.
You know my family name may sound like one who is destined for action – ‘Go (Goh)’ – That is why we are always on the go. But in reality, I might always be on the go, but I cannot do it alone. I see a powerhouse of bubbling enthusiasm, grace, and talent among the presbyterian and laity, and particularly the young people, that can be harnessed and unleashed to propel the Church forward in this new millenium. Together we must forge new and creative ways, to categorise our youths, 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 great attention to the family and married life, which is under threat by a world that no longer believes in the institution of the family, and of marriage, which is the first cradle for Catholic spirituality.
My dear brothers and sisters, the Church must reclaim its voice in influencing world views without fear, particularly with respect to the universal values of truth and justice, for the promotion of harmony. We must continue to steadfastly, resist the lure of secularism, and relativism, which threaten to suppress the voice of God, by working assiduously in areas of interreligious 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.
Not withstanding the issues at large, what I hoped for above all in my episcopacy, is to be both an encouraging and supporting brother to my priests. Thank you so much, brother priests for coming. I want to empower them in their ministry, and to you laity, I would like to be a compassionate and caring father. We must therefore work at becoming a vibrant, faith-filled, missionary, evangelical Church. We must never be complacent or satisfied with a maintenance Church.
This will be achieved, not only by me, not the clergy, religious, or just the laity, but together as entire people of God in unity. Remember the Holy Father Pope Benedict has told us, laity are corresponsible, not simply collaborators. Corresponsible in the mission of the Church. Hence passion and compassion will be the hallmark and thrust of my ministry in renewing the Church in Singapore.
We are one Body, one Spirit in Christ. Your pouring of your love, sacrifice, and generosity thus far had edified me, and I am moved to give of myself to the people of God. That this not be just a passing emotion, but the breath of the new spring, the wind beneath a tidal wave of change, sweeping the Catholic Church in Singapore. Thank you for your support. Ut Vivant! That you may live!”
https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.517889154929727.132978.448369905214986&type=1
The photographs of the Episcopal Ordination Mass of the Coadjutor Archbishop of Singapore, taken by PixelMusica, which had been selected as the official photographer and videographer of the event.
I am hoping that they will publish a full video coverage of the event. Stay tuned for any news!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rFf5k965i0w (Anthem from 10:40 to 13:00)
Ut Vivant (That they may live)
In love You came that we might live,
Help me lead the flock You give.
With passion, compassion, and love divine
May my sacrifice be joined to Thine
Awake now, lion, stand and roar;
The Pilgrim Church of Singapore;
For as my prayer to You ascends,
Let Your sevenfold Gifts descend;
Your Church’s faith restore, renew.
To spread the Gospel in ways anew.
Restore it! Renew it!
In the way of New Evangelisation,
Lead it!
‘Pie pellicane’, ‘Heart on fire’;
May Your Glory I desire;
A shepherd’s heart in me implant,
To teach, to serve, and not to want.
Holy Virgin, Star of the sea
Guide me, Mother, pray for me;
From this Year of Faith for souls to strive
And lead them to Eternal life.
‘Ut Vivant’, I answer, ‘Ut Vivant!’
O Lord, that they may live.
Text by : Coadjutor Archbishop William Goh of Singapore and Sir Dr. Peter Low
Music by : Sir Dr. Peter Low, Knight Commander of the Papal Order of St. Gregory, Choir Master of the Cathedral Choir of the Risen Christ, of the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd
Arranged by : Alphonsus Chern, Organist of the Cathedral Choir of the Risen Christ
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).
I had the privilege to meet our new Coadjutor Archbishop directly today, and had a photo with him, and also received his blessing. It is also my first baciamano (or kissing the bishop’s ring), which is the act of obedience and fidelity to the authority of the Apostles that has been passed down to the bishops, in this case our Coadjutor Archbishop.
Tomorrow, at the Thanksgiving Mass at the Cathedral of the Good Shepherd, will be another time when I can be really close to him, as hopefully, then I can serve the Mass and maybe be his assistant at the Mass.
Pray for our newly ordained Coadjutor Archbishop, and show that he has our full support as he begins his new ministry as bishop.
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.
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 :
The official press release on the Episcopal Ordination of the Coadjutor Archbishop can be found here :
(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.
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.
petercanisiusmichaeldavidkang 