I was baptized as an infant and raised Catholic. From childhood until after I graduated and entered the workforce, I only went to church out of obedience to my parents. To me, faith was just a routine—something I followed without much feeling. I was naturally introverted and preferred to spend time alone playing computer games. I was a typical homebody who rarely initiated conversations, especially with people I didn’t know well.
After getting married, I moved to Heng Fa Chuen. One Sunday, after attending Mass at Star of the Sea Church, I passed by the parish hall and was invited by a volunteer to vote in the district core team election. That’s how I became a parish member. Later, a woman called and invited me to a faith-based gathering for families in Heng Fa Chuen. I declined many times, but she was persistent, calling me periodically to extend the invitation. Finally, I agreed to go once, hoping she would stop bothering me.
That evening, the gathering at the parishioner’s home included dinner, fellowship, a short film, and sharing about life. As someone who wasn’t good at socialising, I felt a little awkward at first. However, their warmth and sincerity made me open up naturally, and I shared some of my thoughts and feelings. When I returned home, I unexpectedly felt lighthearted and joyful. At the time, I was under a lot of work pressure, and life felt aimless and dull.
After attending a few more gatherings, I accepted the invitation to join the district core team. Honestly, I’m not sure why I said yes—it wasn’t my strong suit. In fact, it was my weakest area. The role required reaching out to fellow parishioners, distributing church newsletters, and dealing with security guards in our building. At first, most people turned down my invitations to gatherings. However, I was encouraged to see those who supported the events. One of my happiest memories was when we would go out for dessert and chat about life after a core team meeting at a parishioner’s home. Those moments of fellowship made up for the challenges of the work.
Gradually, I became more involved in parish activities, especially spiritual sharing sessions, like the core team reflections in District Six. The encouragement and acceptance I received from my brothers and sisters in faith changed me. Interactions that once felt difficult became something I enjoyed. I went from being an introvert who avoided conversations to someone who actively engages with others and is eager to discuss and share. My faith and my growing sense of a mission to serve the Church transformed me. I no longer saw people as strangers, but as my brothers and sisters on the same journey.
In the past, I relied solely on myself and worked independently — maybe it had something to do with my IT background. Now, I’ve learned to ask for help and work as part of a team. More importantly, I’ve learned to trust in the Lord, doing my best while leaving the rest in his hands.
Looking back, I need to thank that lady invited me to join the gathering twenty-four years ago. Compared to who I was then, I’ve changed a lot. I am happier, more connected, and no longer afraid to reach out to others. I believe God called me through her, and the Holy Spirit moved me to respond. What began as an obligation has become a joy.
Kenneth Law
