Do Not Be a Barren Fig Tree; Emulate the Courage of St. Joan of Arc to show Civic Responsibility
May 30th marks the Feast of St. Joan of Arc every year, but our school chose to celebrate on May 29th, a day in advance. This has given us more time to reflect deeply on our faith and our deeds.
During the Feast Day celebration, Father Timothy Wan guided us through the Gospel of Mark. Upon entering Jerusalem, Jesus observed everything in the temple; He then cursed the fruitless fig tree and went on to cleanse the temple. This Gospel passage offered a powerful message for our community on this special occasion.
Father Wan reminded us that faith is not merely an internal belief, but something made visible through action. We are called to bear the fruits of charity, peace, and justice in our daily lives so that those around us may truly feel God’s presence through our words and deeds. In this way, the warning of the barren fig tree becomes not only a biblical image, but also a challenge to each of us.
The life of St. Joan of Arc reminds us that faith can become a courageous force for good in the world. Father Wan encouraged us not to be like the fig tree, which had only an empty outward appearance, but to follow St. Joan’s example by turning religious fervour into concrete action. Her witness challenges us to remain steadfast in truth, trust in God’s guidance, and respond bravely when called to serve others.
Our celebration was also a warm family reunion, bringing together IMC representatives, PTA members, the Supervisor, Principals, alumni, teachers, and students in a spirit of piety and solemnity, accompanied by meaningful hymns. As we reflect on the Gospel of Mark and the example of St. Joan of Arc, may each of us remain dedicated to our duties, care for society, courageously choose what is good, and fulfill our civic responsibilities. In doing so, we may generously bring the justice and love of the Kingdom of Heaven to everyone around us.