SCIC Triduum Day 2: Courage
The second day of the SCIC Triduum focused on the theme of Courage. In his homily, Fr Michael Teng reflected on the many ways Christians are called to live courageously in faith, both in prayer and in daily life.
Courage to Change Ourselves
Fr Michael shared his observation while seated at the back of the church, hearing confessions: during adoration, some were sincerely conversing with Jesus, yet others were chatting or whispering among themselves. He asked, “Would you do that if the King were right in front of you?” Perhaps the humble wafer on the altar does not appear striking to our senses, but we must choose to believe—with eyes of faith—that before us is our Creator, the Lord of the universe.
This calls for reverence. To focus our hearts on Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament requires courage—the courage to change our attitudes and discipline ourselves in prayer. True courage means deciding daily to approach the Eucharist with love, humility, and awe, allowing Christ to speak to us in silence.
Courage to Provide for Others
St. Paul reminds us that “religion brings large profits” (1 Timothy 6:6)—not worldly riches, but the greatest profit of all: salvation. To share this gift, we must also provide for others so that they too may encounter Christ. Luke 8:2–3 tells us that the women who had experienced the love of Jesus supported His ministry out of their own means.
Our faith must be shown in action. Each of us is called to respond to the needs of the Church and others. We must not be afraid to answer this call. A little effort goes a long way to bring Jesus to others. Fr Michael pointed to the parish’s Kasih Project, which provides for those in need, as a living example of faith in action. Out of the goodness of our hearts, we are invited to courageously respond to the needs of others. Even the smallest act, when offered with love, can bring the light of Christ to those around us.
Courage to Speak Up
As disciples, we are also called to courage in our speech. Gossip, dissension, and mistrust harm the Body of Christ. Fr Michael urged us to avoid speaking against others behind their backs and instead to be courageous enough to correct—and to accept correction—with charity.
Jesus Himself corrected the scribes and Pharisees without fear, even at the cost of His life. Likewise, modern witnesses remind us of this same courage. Fr Michael cited the example of Charlie Kirk, who fearlessly defended the truth of the Gospel and paid for it with his life. Courageous faith speaks truth, not malice; it builds up, rather than tears down.
Courage of the Martyrs
The saints are powerful models of courage. Fr Michael recalled Saints Chastan and Imbert, whose martyrdom gave rise to the flourishing Church in Korea. He also remembered St Januarius, martyred during the persecutions under Emperor Diocletian, whose feast is celebrated on 19 September. Each year the faithful of Naples witness the miraculous liquefaction of his blood—an enduring sign of God’s power that no science can explain. Such miracles remind us that martyrdom is not an end in itself, but a testimony to the living God who draws all people to Himself.
Do Not Be Afraid
Fr Michael concluded by reminding the faithful not to fear challenges, trials, or even evil itself, for Christ has already conquered the world. Through baptism, we share in His victory and authority.
Jesus asked Peter: “O man of little faith, why did you doubt?” (Matthew 14:31) We too must keep asking ourselves why we sometimes have little faith and lack the courage to show our faith in public. One must not be intimidated by difficulties and challenges. Jesus assures us: “Do not be afraid; have faith.” (Mark 5:36) With eyes fixed on Christ, let us live boldly, with faith that overcomes fear, courage that springs from love, and trust that He is always with us. (KA)