SINGAPORE (LiCAS News): The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Malaysia, Singapore, and Brunei (CBCMSB) called for prayers and healing after Father Christopher Lee of St. Joseph’s Church in Upper Bukit Timah, Singapore, was stabbed during the Saturday evening Mass on November 9, while distributing Communion. The bishops’ called for compassion and support for all those affected by the incident.
The 57-year-old Father Lee was rushed to Singapore’s National University Hospital and is reported to be in stable condition. The alleged attacker, a 37-year-old Singaporean with a history of violent and drug-related offenses, was subdued by members of the congregation and taken into custody by the police.
“Let us unite in asking our Heavenly Father for a swift and complete recovery for him, as well as for the consolation and courage of the faithful who have been impacted by this traumatic event,” said Archbishop Julian Leow Beng Kim of Kuala Lumpur, president of CBCMSB.
Archbishop Kim also appealed for prayers for “those who seek to cause division through violence,” expressing hope that God will touch their hearts “with mercy, leading them toward healing and redemption.”
The archbishop said, “At a time when we, as a region, strive to foster peace, love, and understanding in our societies, such violence is especially painful. Yet, it is in these moments of trial that we are reminded of our Christian calling to respond with peace, compassion, and forgiveness.”
In a November 10 statement, William Cardinal Goh, archbishop of Singapore, said the incident has made the Church in Singapore “stronger, bringing our people closer through faith and prayer.”
The archbishop expressed confidence that the community will emerge from this experience stronger and more resilient.
Authorities said that the incident does not appear to be linked to terrorism.
