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Sunday Homilies with the Redemptorists
Sunday Homilies with the Redemptorists
Author: Novena Church
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© Novena Church
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Listen to the Redemptorists from the Church of St. Alphonsus (Novena Church) Singapore give inspiring homilies based on the Sunday Mass Scripture readings.
2023 - 2024 (Year B Readings)
2023 - 2024 (Year B Readings)
119 Episodes
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Lent is often described as an internal spiritual journey — yet it should not be a sprint or marathon, but a slow, intentional walk with God.Fr Terence highlights three key points for our Lenten journey: 1. Before we embark on this journey, we must recognise where we are at — acknowledging our blessings but examining our lives and admitting our weaknesses. Lent invites us to strengthen our relationship with God and identify habits or areas that we need change. 2. Approach Lent with the right attitude. Lent is not about dramatic, unsustainable transformations but a calm and reflective journey. We must recognise our human limitations and open ourselves to be guided by God toward small, realistic changes that can endure beyond the Lenten season. 3. Finally, Fr Terence observes that, like the disciples who were reluctant to leave the mountain after the experience of the Transfiguration, we too may wish to remain in the memory of a wonderful experience. Yet Jesus reminds his disciples that their real work begins only after their descent from the mountain. Fr Terence reminds us that such wonderful experiences are not meant to be possessed, but to guide our path. We are invited to identify the one thing we wish to change this Lent, put in extra effort to change and thus grow closer to God.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Terence Wee, C.Ss.R. (1 March 2026)
This week, as Chinese New Year celebrations met the beginning of Lent on Ash Wednesday, Fr. Gerard reflects on how both seasons invite us to make a new start.Chinese New Year reminds us of renewal through spring cleaning, reunion meals, family, and hospitality—finding joy in simple and meaningful relationships. Lent similarly calls us to declutter our lives and refocus through prayer, penance, and almsgiving (The 3 pillars of Lent).Reflecting on the story of Adam and Eve, Fr. Gerard reminds us that we know the difference between good and evil and that our choices matter. Our actions affect others. Like Jesus in the desert, we face temptations and must decide what we truly value.Feasting and fasting, red packets and ashes, are not mere rituals. They challenge us to reflect on what we truly believe and to live lives of conversion, change, and transformation.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Gerard Louis, C.Ss.R. (22 February 2026)
In the first reading, God gives us the choice of water of Baptism and fire of Holy Spirit. Fire can be used to cook food, which is good, but it can also cause burns; hence, the choice of life and death, good and evil, likewise with water. But the choice is ours.The 2nd reading is about the Wisdom of God. Wisdom comes from depth of God. It is the gift of the Holy Spirit. The Gospel also talks of reconciliation and being truthful where we should not swear. Yes means yes and no means no.Putting it all together, the message of all readings is that God is the God of wisdom who gives us blessings and gifts. But it is up to us to decide what to do with it. Do we choose to follow him? Are we sincere? Are we truthful? God is pure light, not darkness. The fire of Holy Spirit and the water of baptism give us new life. We have a choice to choose life. The readings are to remind us to keep faith with the Lord and to walk with him, even if we are walking with blind faith or when things are difficult. Fr. Vincent reminds us that wherever God leads, we will be ok. The journey may be tough, but the destination will be ok.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Vincent Low, C.Ss.R. (15 February 2026)
In this homily, Fr. Peter delivers a "tall order" to modern Christians. He challenges the congregation to move beyond "Sunday-only" faith and embrace a transformation of character. True Christian identity is reviewed in a life transformed - seen in our character, attitudes, and daily actions that reflect God's truth, love, mercy, and compassion.Drawing from Isaiah, the Psalms and Saint Paul, Fr. Peter highlights that human wisdom and external practices are not enough. Real enlightenment comes from a personal encounter with Christ. To be "salt of the Earth" and "light of the world" requires us to have daily relationship with God, ongoing conversation, and dying to one's selfishness to allow Christ's presence to shine through us to others.The homily concludes with a practical call to action - make time for God each day and let prayer reshape our hearts, so that Christianity becomes not just a label or artificial intelligence but as living witness that make the Gospel visible and relevant in today's world.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Peter Wee, C.Ss.R. (8 February 2026)
Sunday of the Word of God ties all three readings together with one message: God’s Word isn’t just something we hear — it’s something that must change how we live.Fr Gerard explains how the early church in Corinth did not live according to God’s word. St Paul calls the Church back to unity in Christ and healing of division.In the Gospel, Jesus himself is the Word in action: he proclaims, “Repent, for the Kingdom of God is at hand,” and he calls ordinary fishermen to follow him. Their response is immediate and concrete — they leave their nets and become disciples. Fr Gerard challenges us to allow God’s word to guide us back to God, leave what holds us back and join Jesus’ mission.Today we are reminded to truly honour God’s Word, which brings light where we are in darkness, heal divisions in how we relate to others, and push us into real repentance and discipleship — letting Jesus reshape our choices, habits, and daily life.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Gerard Louis, C.Ss.R. (25 January 2026)
Fr. Peter Wee reflects on the Baptism of the Lord and John the Baptist's declaration of "There is the Lamb of God who takes away the sins of the world." He reminds us that Jesus' mission - to free humanity from sin, evil, and spiritual death - is not just history, but a living reality today still. Through baptism, we are given a new identity as adopted sons and daughters of God, and a mission to witness to His saving love.Fr. Peter challenges us to "come on board with Jesus" - acknowledging our sins, letting go of what is unloving within us, and allowing God to change us from within. The process is not a one-time event but a lifelong process of transformation - to "put on the mind and the heart of Jesus."- Sunday Homily by Fr. Peter Wee, C.Ss.R. (18 January 2026)
Last week’s Feast of the Epiphany was a manifestation and revelation of who Jesus is and today the Baptism of our Lord is the 2nd revelation of his person.Of note there are 2 things- his identity and mission that flows from his identity.What does the baptism of Jesus mean for us?Baptism means to be born again. We are cleansed by the water and reborn. Why did Jesus do that when he doesn’t need to? To identify with us sinners, to subject himself to our human condition i.e. challenges, conflict, denial betrayal etc. He is with us- Emmanuel. Jesus’ identity—Son of God and MessiahJesus’ mission—To save the Jews and all nations from the path of darkness and to carry out the mission, Jesus needs to know God’s will.For us - we know that Jesus’ identity is son of God and saviour of the world and through our baptism, we become adopted children of God. As such we should get to know God more and more through Jesus. Our mission- we take part in the saving works of Jesus where we become witnesses of God’s merciful love.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Peter Wee, C.Ss.R. (11 January 2026)
As we begin the New Year, Fr. Ino reflects on our natural attraction to what is new. We are drawn to new phones, new cars and so forth, often believing that "new" is better while "old" is less desirable. This preference reveals a deeper reality in our lives: we carry many biases, prejudices, and stereotypes that influence how we see others. Connecting this to the Gospel of the Epiphany, Fr Ino highlights the significance of the Three Magi - foreigners who journeyed form distant lands to seek Jesus. Their presence reminds us that Jesus is not only for one people or one nation, but for all. The homily challenges us to examine our own prejudices, even in subtle forms. Even good loves - such as love for family or country - can become barriers when they prevent us from embracing others.This Epiphany calls us to move form exclusion to inclusion, from judgement to understanding, and form narrowed love to a wider and more generous heart because the love of God is for all.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Victorino Cueto, C.Ss.R. (4 January 2026)
In this homily, Fr. Sikstus reflects on the Beatitudes from the Gospel — the heart of Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount and the foundation of Christian life. Together with the first reading and St Paul’s message to the Corinthians, he reminds us that God’s favour rests not on the rich or powerful, but on the humble, the weak, and the poor in spirit.Quoting the late Pope Francis, Fr. Sikstus shares that the Beatitudes are the “identity card” of Christians, revealing the very face and lifestyle of Jesus. They teach us the values we are called to embrace - humility, mercy, justice, compassion, and integrity.What does it mean to be “poor in spirit”? It is not simply material poverty, but an attitude of total dependence on God. True wealth lies not in possessions, but in trusting God’s mercy.Fr. Sikstus also invites us to be peacemakers, extending forgiveness even when it is difficult. By living the Beatitudes, we continue Jesus’ mission and rejoice in His promise: our reward will be great in heaven.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Sikstus Bapa Atawolo, C.Ss.R. (1 February 2026)
As we celebrate the Feast of the Holy Family, we are reminded that the family life of Jesus, Mary, and Joseph began not in comfort or security, but amid uncertainty, fear, and flight from danger. What sustained them in these far-from-ideal circumstances was love—steadfast and self-giving—rooted deeply in their trust in God.The theme of family runs clearly through today’s readings. In the first reading, Sirach calls us to honour our parents, recognising the sacred bond that shapes and nurtures life. In the second reading, St Paul speaks of harmony and cooperation within the family—between husband and wife, parents and children—so that the household may become a place of holiness and unity.As Fr Prabhu reminds us, the love that holds a family together is often quiet, hidden, and sacrificial. It is a love that can easily be taken for granted, yet it is never unseen by God. On this feast, may the Holy Family teach us to love with humility and faith, and to place our trust in God, just as they did, in every season of our family life.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Antony Prabhu, C.Ss.R. (28 December 2025)
Christmas is more than a festive season of gifts and traditions - itis a time when we naturally become kinder, more generous, and more attentive to others. Fr. Ino reflects that this change of heart happens because Christmas carries a deeper spiritual truth: Emmanuel, God is with us.Drawing from the readings in Isaiah and Matthew, Fr. Ino highlights the mystery of God choosing to become human. God, who is already perfect and complete, did not need humanity - yet out of pure love, He crossed over into our human condition. This crossing over reveals the heart of God. Love always goes out, draws near, and chooses relationship. This Christmas and beyond, we are reminded to live out the true spirit of the season: to be a little kinder, more loving, more caring, and more understanding - looking at others as God looks at us with love that crosses over and stays with us.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Victorino Cueto, C.Ss.R. (21 December 2025)
Fr. Prabhu tells us of a couple expecting first child. During one of their checkups- the doctor let them hear the heartbeat of their child- they shed tears of joy, even their baby was not in their arms yet, but they could hear the new life. This is the experience that church wants us to have on Gaudete Sunday- we are hearing the heartbeat of the Messiah; even though Jesus is not here yet, we still feel the joy of anticipation as we take a pause in this time of preparation and rejoice because the Lord is very near. In the 1st reading- people who are in the desert- God promises that the desert will bloom. In the 2nd reading- James talks to Christians who are tired of waiting. He reminds them to be patient like the farmer waiting for fruits to appear and be harvested, akin to waiting for the Lord to come and the gospel tells of John the Baptist who sends the messenger to ask Jesus if he is the Messiah. Jesus tells John to listen to the signs and that the promise is being fulfilled.The Lord is here and near. Let us ask for the grace to be open to the messiah and to listen to the heartbeat of joy that is on the way. Courage, let us not be afraid. - Sunday Homily by Fr. Antony Prabhu, C.Ss.R. (14 December 2025)
On this Second Sunday of Advent, Fr. Vincent Low reflects on the lighting of the Peace Candle—more meaningfully understood as the candle of Shalom. Unlike the English word “peace,” Shalom signifies wholeness, blessing, harmony, and the fullness of God’s goodness. This theme echoes the message of John the Baptist in the day’s Gospel: Prepare the way of the Lord. Make straight His path. Repent. Advent is a four-week journey of preparing our hearts to welcome the Prince of Peace, yet many of us struggle with inner turbulence—anger, agitation, sadness, or a lack of meaning. Peace begins within, not outside. If our hearts are filled with unrest, we cannot receive the peace Christ longs to give. The Holy Spirit cannot dwell where rage and resentment dominate. Fr Vincent invites us to search our hearts, seek healing, repent, and create space for Shalom. Only then will Christmas be more than a day—it will be a true encounter with Christ’s peace.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Vincent Low, C.Ss.R. (7 December 2025)
Fr. Ino begins with humour about the everyday struggles we face during Mass - wandering thoughts, distractions, and even trying to stay awake during the homily - to lead into the Gospel's call for the First Sunday of Advent: "Stay Awake."He explains that staying awake has two meanings:Firstly, it means being conscious and aware of God's coming, not only the unknown moment of Christ's Second coming, but also His daily presence in the ordinary moments and people around us. He shares the story of a young woman who prayed for a stranger who was in tears, showing how Christ can be encountered in others when our hearts are awake.Secondly, staying awake means living an active faith and not treating religion as a checklist. True wakefulness is active love - bringing God's love and values beyond the Church into daily life. When faith becomes passive, even believers can fall into corruption or selfishness.To stay awake is to stay aware, loving, and faithful.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Victorino Cueto, C.Ss.R. (30 November 2025)
Today, we celebrate the Feast of Christ the King, the final Sunday of the Liturgical Year, when we acknowledge Christ as the true King of our lives and our hearts. Christ our King does not reign from a golden throne or wear a jeweled crown. His throne is the cross, and his crown is made of thorns.As our King, Jesus offered himself in sacrifice for us, his people, and through this saving love he gained for us the way to eternal life in paradise, just as he promised the repentant thief who was crucified with Him at Calvary. This feast invites us to repent, to turn away from sin, and to live according to the values of the Gospel.Fr Charles Anthony reminds us that each of us is called to be an ambassador of Christ: to choose love where there is anger, to seek forgiveness instead of revenge, and to pray rather than complain. As we look ahead to the new liturgical year, can we make the choice to love as Christ our King loved us?- Sunday Homily by Fr. Antony Charles, C.Ss.R. (23 November 2025)
Today's liturgy centres on the triumph of God and invites us to face the reality of life with faith, not fear. Fr. Vincent Low reminds us, as with the Gospel reading, of the need to stay awake and be prepared, the importance of diligence, and the call to fidelity - especially in difficult times.The world has always been marked by natural disasters and suffering. Many in countries like Philippines, Taiwan, Indonesia, Japan, and even the United States know this firsthand. These events are not new; yet Christ tells us not to dwell on these signs but to stay close to Him, trusting that He will care for us through every storm. If we live faithfully, we need not fear death or judgement, as a disciple who walks sincerely with Christ can face God without anxiety. And in a world that shakes, Fr. Vincent reminds us that the Gospel calls us to a faith that stands firm - anchored in Christ, who never abandons His own.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Vincent Low, C.Ss.R. (16 November 2025)
Today we celebrate the Dedication of the Basilica of St John Lateran and the founding of the redemptorist congregation by St Alphonsus. St John Lateran is the Cathedral of the Bishop of Rome i.e. the Pope. It is the mother church of all the churches in the world.The 2nd reading alludes to us being the temple of the Holy Spirit meaning our bodies and similarly in the Gospel Jesus reaffirms this message when he talks about raising the temple in three days. Today we are not celebrating a physical building but the human church. All baptised Catholics receive the Holy Spirit, collectively the Holy spirit dwells in us.We are the temple of the Holy Spirit hence we have to live our lives well.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Vincent Low, C.Ss.R. (9 November 2025)
Fr. Prabhu begins with a deeply personal story about the passing of his father on August 16, 2023. He recalls being alone at the hospital as his father died, and hearing an inner voice of comfort: "Son, do not be afraid. I am with you. I am always with you. I am in you. I live in you." This experience revealed a profound truth to him - that love does not end at the grave.He connects this personal encounter with the message of All Souls Day, that God's love and mercy extend beyond death. Fr. Prabhu offers three invitations for All Souls Day:1. Remember with gratitude - the good our ancestors and loved ones have done2. Pray with trust - in God's mercy and hope of resurrection3. Live with hope - through love, forgiveness, compassion, and sacrifice.He concludes that heaven begins whenever love conquers fear. One day we shall rise again in the light of Christ.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Antony Prabhu, C.Ss.R. (2 November 2025)
In today’s Gospel, Fr Terence reminds us that true prayer begins with humility, as shown by the tax collector who acknowledged his sinfulness before God. He invites us to reflect on ourselves and recognise our imperfections before judging others. In serving God and the Church, we may sometimes fall into the same trap as the Pharisee, feeling self-righteous because of our actions. Yet, what truly matters is the sincerity and humility of our hearts before God. Sirach (35:12–14, 16–18) reinforces this, reminding us that God listens to the cries of the poor and oppressed. When we come before God in humility of spirit and compassion of heart, He hears us, transforms us through His grace, and helps us grow toward perfection. Only then can we experience God with us.- Sunday Homily with Fr. Terence Wee, C.Ss.R. (26 October 2025)
When life throws dirt our way, do we shake it off, step up, and rise higher? Like the donkey that refused to be buried, we're called to persist in faith and prayer.In this reflection from Fr. Eugene, we are called to explore Jesus' parable of the persistent widow and the unjust judge, a story that reminds us: even when prayers seem unanswered, God never abandon His people. Our persistence, like the widow's, builds faith, strength, and trust.Many lose heart when prayers seem to fall silent, but faith is not about instant rewards. It's about P.U.S.H. - Push Until Something Happens. Sometimes what happens is not the miracle we expect, but the transformation of our hearts.As we mark Mission Sunday, let's be everyday missioners - people who bring hope through prayers, presence, and compassion. Keep praying, trusting, and showing up as Fr. Eugene reminds us. Because if even an unjust judge could listen, how much more will our loving Father respond? In Him, there is plentiful redemption.- Sunday Homily by Fr. Eugene Lee, C.Ss.R. (19 October 2025)




