Dear Archbishop William Goh,

We earnestly desire your kind consideration in reviewing your decision to transfer Rev. Fr. Ignatius Yeo out of Saint Joseph’s Church, Victoria Street.

Throughout his stint in Saint Joseph’s Church, Fr. Ignatius has been a source of inspiration to his varied flock. He has been instrumental in numerous projects that have revitalized and unified the church- i.e. Overseeing the completion of the restoration of the Stained Glass Panels, the air-conditioning of the church, sprucing up of the church and sacristy, grounds, baptistry etc.

Fr. Ignatius has been administering the sacraments painstakingly well, he is often in the confessional for almost the entire day on typical Sundays. He celebrates the Eucharist with such dignity and beauty, and thus have enhanced the spiritual well-being of those under his care. His most dynamic and succinct homilies have attracted crowds. Masses at Saint Joseph’s are increasingly well attended.

We understand the practical needs of the Archdiocese and that such a capable priest may need to be transferred elsewhere to build other parish communities. However, there are the most urgent spiritual needs of the people at Saint Joseph’s that we now ask you to consider. Many at Saint Joseph’s are deeply saddened and disappointed by your decision of his too early transfer and the numerous signatories in this letter is a testimony to this.

We appeal to your compassion as chief shepherd, to care for our spiritual well being and for us to retain Fr. Ignatius in St. Joseph for some years to come. Fr. Ignatius’ term as rector here has been way too short, and his proposed departure, too sudden. We believe that this abrupt change of rectorship will cause too much upheaval and flux within this, previously unstable, life of our church.

We beg you humbly, our dear and most reverent Shepherd, to be compassionate to us. We will be most grateful if you would accede to our request. We will always try to be united with you in spirit and in action to realize our vision of a more missionary and evangelistic Church in Singapore.

Obediently yours,