The Lenten season at Holy Name Convent began not with a whisper, but with a powerful call to transformation. As the Holy Name community gathered for our Ash Wednesday Mass, the atmosphere in the hall was one of reflection as the choir sang beautifully and Fr. Tang Kai truly engaged the girls and teachers.
The liturgy of the word set a profound tone for the forty days ahead. In the first reading from Joel 2:12-18, we were reminded that returning to God isn’t about “rending your garments” but about a sincere turning of the heart, something we must be reminded of through this Lenten season.
This theme of urgency was echoed in the second reading from 2 Corinthians 5:20-6:2. Fr. Tang Kai emphasized the Apostle Paul’s plea: “Now is the favourable time.” He challenged us to realise that spiritual growth isn’t something to be delayed until we are older or have more time. The time to be reconciled with God is right now.
Fr. Tang Kai’s homily was particularly striking for its focus on our identity. He reminded the girls that we are, at all times, Ambassadors for Christ. Whether in our classrooms, on the sports field, or at home, we represent something greater than ourselves.
He took a moment to explain to us the second reading. Fr. broke it down simply: Jesus, though perfect and sinless, took upon Himself the full weight and consequence of human sin. He stepped into our sin so that we might step into His righteousness. It was a great reminder of the sacrifice that Lent ultimately leads us toward.
Moving away from the altar, Fr. Tang Kai made the session truly interactive. He engaged the students directly, asking the girls about their plans for Lent. A few students said they wanted to be more forgiving, giving and even more patient.
The girls were engaged and responded with honesty and a few laughs as they reflected on their own habits.
As the ashes were placed on our foreheads, marking us with the sign of repentance, we took with us many lessons thanks to Fr. Tang Kai’s relatable and challenging words. We leave this Ash Wednesday with a renewed commitment to being true ambassadors for Christ in everything we do.
Written By: Jalene James
Photo Provided By: The Photography Club