A solemn Mass in honour of St Josemaría Escrivá, drawing an estimated 800 faithful, was celebrated on 28 June 2025 at St Joseph’s Church (Victoria Street), Singapore. In his homily, His Eminence, Cardinal Archbishop William Goh delivered a moving message that was both practical and deeply spiritual, echoing the spirituality of the founder of Opus Dei.
He reminded the congregation that holiness is not reserved for the few. Quoting St John Paul II, he explained that baptism itself is a call to holiness, a gift given to every Christian, regardless of their state in life. The Cardinal stressed that holiness must be lived out according to one’s unique vocation and responsibilities.
For lay people especially, he said, that vocation includes family, friendships, and daily work. Holiness isn’t about working in church ministries or holding religious titles. It’s about being faithful to God in ordinary circumstances, bringing holiness into daily life, especially through our work, relationships, and responsibilities, even when they are difficult.
He challenged Catholics to take this seriously. “All Catholics must be the best worker of the month in your organization,” he said, not for ambition or glory, but so that God may be glorified through their dedication, integrity, and love for others.
For Maria Lieka, a 35-year-old chemist who has been attending the activities of Opus Dei for two years, the message struck a chord. She shared that St Josemaría’s teachings had helped her rediscover purpose in her work. There was a time when she didn’t like her job and found it hard to connect her professional life with her faith. That has changed.
“I’m still struggling,” she admitted, “especially when the workload piles up and anxiety kicks in. But the Archbishop’s message really grounded me. His call to be the best worker of the month, not for ourselves, but for God’s glory, reminded me that holiness begins exactly where I am, even in the midst of difficulties.”
The Mass also marked two milestone anniversaries: the 50th anniversary of St Josemaría’s death, and the 100th anniversary of his priestly ordination.
Reflecting on the significance of the event, Fr Ralph Valdes, Regional Vicar for East and South Asia, shared: :
“The memorial of St Josemaría in 2025 is especially meaningful. On the 26th of June, we remember that it has been 50 years since the founder of Opus Dei finished his earthly journey to join the joy of heaven. We have also been celebrating the 100th anniversary of his priestly ordination, which happened on 28th March 1925. As we give thanks to God for the example of St Josemaría's holy life and dedicated priestly ministry, we ask Our Lord to continue blessing the universal Church with the gift of holiness.”
Following the Mass, attendees gathered for a warm reception over lunch. For many, the celebration was not just a tribute to a beloved saint, but a renewed invitation to live out their faith with joy, courage, and purpose, starting right where they are.
Watch the full homily here