Reflections on the Spirit of the Game and Our Spiritual Journey

The excitement and drama of the FIFA World Cup often bring out the best of the human spirit—dedication, teamwork, perseverance and hope. Yet beyond the goals, celebrations and heartbreaks, sport also offers us an opportunity to reflect on our own spiritual journey.

In a recent reflection, Rev. Fr. Andrew Manickam shared how the qualities displayed on the football field mirror the virtues needed in our Christian life. Just as athletes train with discipline and support one another in pursuit of a common goal, we too are called to grow in faith through prayer, perseverance and community.

This journey of faith is what the Church describes as synodality—walking together, listening to one another, and allowing the Holy Spirit to guide us as one people of God. The World Cup reminds us that life itself is a journey marked by both victories and disappointments, moments of joy and moments of sorrow.

The tears shed by players and supporters alike after defeat are a powerful reminder of our shared humanity and vulnerability. Yet, as Christians, we take comfort in knowing that God remains with us in every circumstance. In moments of triumph, we give thanks; in moments of loss, we place our trust in His loving providence.

Reflecting on Brazil’s recent exit from the tournament, Fr. Andrew reminds us that God’s sovereignty remains unshaken. Through every victory and every setback, His grace continues to accompany us and sustain us.

May this reflection encourage us to remain focused on our calling, to walk together in faith, and to trust that God is present in every step of our spiritual journey.

Prayer for Unity and Reconciliation

n response to the Holy Father’s call for prayer, the Church of Our Lady of Fatima invites all parishioners to unite in prayer for unity, reconciliation and healing within the Church.

At this sorrowful moment, we join Catholics around the world in praying that “the seamless garment of Christ, wounded by division, may once again be visibly restored.”

During this special time of prayer, we entrust the Church to the Lord, asking Him to pour out His Spirit of peace, heal every wound of division, and strengthen us in charity, communion and mutual understanding.

All are warmly invited to participate in this time of intercession.

Monday, 6 July 2026
🕤 9.30 am – Holy Hour
🕙 10.00 am – Holy Rosary
🕥 10.40 am – Holy Benediction
🕚 11.00 am – Holy Mass

📍 Church of Our Lady of Fatima, Brickfields

“That they may all be one.” (John 17:21)

Faith, Football and Friendly Rivalries

The FIFA World Cup has once again captured the imagination of millions around the world. Victories are celebrated, dreams are fulfilled, and for others, the tournament ends in disappointment.

At the Church of Our Lady of Fatima, we have also been enjoying a little World Cup fun and friendly banter, especially with our very own “Andrezinho”—Fr. Andrew’s football-loving alter ego!

Beyond the goals and the trophies, sport teaches us important lessons about life and faith. There are moments of triumph and moments of heartbreak. There are seasons of waiting, perseverance and new beginnings.

As Christians, we are reminded that our lives are also a journey. We may stumble, experience setbacks, or see our hopes delayed, but God continually invites us to keep moving forward with faith, hope and trust in Him.

As St. Paul writes:

“I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith.”
(2 Timothy 4:7)

May the World Cup continue to bring families and friends together in joy and fellowship. Let us celebrate the beautiful game with good humour, healthy rivalry and gratitude for the gift of community.

And to all whose teams have already “departed”—there is always another World Cup!

As for Andrezinho, his flight to Rio de Janeiro appears to have been delayed until 21 July 2026! 🇧🇷⚽✈️

Becoming Catholic: An Amazing, Life-Changing Journey

Have you ever wondered about the Catholic faith? Are you searching for a deeper relationship with God, seeking answers to life’s big questions, or feeling a gentle invitation to discover something more?

The Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA) is a journey of faith for adults who wish to learn more about the Catholic Church and, for some, to prepare to receive the Sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation and the Holy Eucharist.

RCIA is much more than a series of classes. It is a time of prayer, reflection, discernment and spiritual formation, where seekers walk alongside a welcoming community, exploring the teachings of Jesus Christ and the rich traditions of the Catholic faith.

The new RCIA journey at the Church of Our Lady of Fatima will begin in August 2026:

📅 English Session: 3 August 2026
📅 Tamil Session: 19 August 2026

For further information, please contact:

📞 Brian de Rozario – 012-258-4622 (English)
📞 Lilly Mary – 016-256-1441 (Tamil)

You may also scan the QR code on the poster to register.

Wherever you may be on your spiritual journey, know that you are welcome. We look forward to accompanying you as you discover the beauty, truth and joy of the Catholic faith.

“Come and see.” (John 1:39)

Confirmation Day at the Church of Our Lady of Fatima

On 26 June 2026, the Church of Our Lady of Fatima joyfully celebrated the Sacrament of Confirmation as 23 young parishioners were sealed with the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

The Eucharistic Celebration was a grace-filled occasion, bringing together various parish ministries, catechists, parents, sponsors, and volunteers in support of the confirmands and their families. The celebration marked an important milestone in the faith journey of these young Catholics as they were strengthened by the Holy Spirit and commissioned to live as witnesses of Christ in the world.

During his homily, Archbishop Julian Leow encouraged the confirmands to listen attentively to God’s promptings and to respond generously to His call. Sharing his own vocation story, he spoke about the support and encouragement he eventually received from his father, reminding the young people that God often works through the people closest to us.

Following the celebration, the Archbishop spent time with the newly confirmed over tea, chatting with them about their aspirations, their lives, and even football, creating a warm and memorable encounter for the young parishioners.

Addressing the confirmands, Fr. Andrew Manickam reminded them that God has a purpose and mission for each person and encouraged them to discover and fulfil God’s plan for their lives.

The Church of Our Lady of Fatima congratulates our 23 newly confirmed brothers and sisters and prays that they may continue to grow in faith, guided by the Holy Spirit and strengthened to live as joyful disciples of Christ.

“Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful and kindle in them the fire of Your love.”

A Prayer for Those Affected by the Earthquake in Venezuela and All Tragedies Around the World

The Church of Our Lady of Fatima invites all parishioners and friends to come together in prayer for those affected by the recent earthquake in Venezuela and for all who continue to suffer from natural disasters, conflicts, and tragedies around the world.

In times of sorrow and uncertainty, the Christian response is one of prayer, compassion, and solidarity. We remember those who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods, and we pray for the departed, the grieving, and all those engaged in relief and recovery efforts.

As a sign of our unity in faith and hope, parishioners are invited to light a candle before the image of the Blessed Mother during the Holy Hour, entrusting all who suffer to her maternal intercession.

📅 Friday, 3 July 2026
📍 Church of Our Lady of Fatima

🕕 6.00pm – Holy Hour
🕡 6.30pm – Holy Rosary
🕖 7.10pm – Holy Benediction
🕢 7.30pm – Holy Mass

May Our Lady of Fatima, Comforter of the Afflicted and Queen of Peace, intercede for all who suffer and obtain for them God’s mercy, healing, and hope.

Kick. Score. Win. – Coffee Morning Fundraiser

The OLF Sunday School Level 3 students warmly invite parishioners and friends to a special Coffee Morning on Sunday, 5 July 2026, at Dewan Fatima.

As part of their fundraising efforts for their upcoming First Holy Communion Camp, our young parishioners have put their creativity and teamwork into organising a fun football-themed activity, aptly named “Kick. Score. Win.”

The children themselves brainstormed the idea and look forward to welcoming everyone for a morning of games, fellowship, and community spirit.

Join us for tea, coffee, breakfast, and a friendly challenge as we support our young people in their faith journey.

📅 Sunday, 5 July 2026
⏰ Kick-off: 7.00am
📍 Dewan Fatima

Come dressed in your favourite team’s colours, cheer the children on, and help make a difference together!

Praying for the Victims of the Earthquake in Venezuela

The Church of Our Lady of Fatima invites all parishioners and friends to join in prayer for the victims of the recent earthquake in Venezuela.

In moments of tragedy and suffering, the Church is called to stand in solidarity with our brothers and sisters throughout the world through prayer, compassion, and hope. As one family of faith, we entrust all those affected by this disaster—those who have lost loved ones, homes, and livelihoods—to the loving care and mercy of God.

Parishioners are encouraged to light a candle in their homes on 30 June and 1 July as a visible sign of prayer and remembrance.

The Archdiocesan Prayer Ministry will also lead a Candlelight Rosary at the Church of Our Lady of Fatima at 7.30pm on both evenings, praying for the victims, their families, rescue workers, and all who continue to suffer the effects of this tragedy.

May Our Lady of Fatima, Queen of Peace and Comfort of the Afflicted, intercede for the people of Venezuela and bring them strength, consolation, and hope.

“Rejoice with those who rejoice; mourn with those who mourn.” (Romans 12:15)

St. Teresa’s 69th Annual Sports Carnival | June 27, 2026 ⚽🏆

The Church of Our Lady of Fatima was pleased to support St. Teresa’s School, our neighbour in Brickfields, during its 69th Annual Sports Carnival held on 27 June 2026.

Fr. Andrew Manickam was invited as the Chief Guest and officially inaugurated the carnival, joining the school community in celebrating a day of sportsmanship, teamwork, healthy competition, and fellowship.

The event also reflected the longstanding spirit of friendship and neighbourly support between St. Teresa’s School and the Church of Our Lady of Fatima. The parish is grateful for this relationship and for the many ways both communities continue to support one another.

Fr. Andrew, together with Santhana Rengan from our parish, also assisted in judging the parade, group coordination, and mascots.

We congratulate the Principal, teachers, students, staff, and organisers of St. Teresa’s School on this joyful occasion and wish them continued success in nurturing teamwork, discipline, and school spirit through sports.

Thank You for Celebrating Father’s Day with Us

The Church of Our Lady of Fatima extends its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who joined us in celebrating Father’s Day over the weekend.

We thank all parishioners who participated in the special blessings for fathers, visited the Youth Ministry’s Father’s Day booth, shared messages and prayer intentions for their fathers and father figures, and remembered deceased fathers through prayer and the lighting of candles.

Your presence, prayers, and participation helped make the celebration a beautiful expression of faith, gratitude, and family.

May God continue to bless all fathers with wisdom, strength, and loving hearts as they fulfil their vocation within their families. We also remember with gratitude those fathers who have gone before us, praying that they may rest in the eternal peace of Christ.

Thank you to the OLF Youth Ministry and everyone who contributed their time and effort in making this celebration meaningful for our parish community.

St. Joseph, Guardian of the Holy Family, pray for all fathers.