A COMMUNITY UNITED IN FAITH

On Tuesday, 12 August 2025, our PPC and PCC met to review our Parish activities and performance for the first half of 2025. As the discussion progressed, we realised that only a few events and formation sessions had been organised for our own parishioners. However, most weekends have seen many pilgrims from the West Coast and the southern part of Peninsular Malaysia, visiting our Parish - which has been designated as a Jubilee Parish for this special pilgrimage year.

This Jubilee Year of Hope has truly been a wonderful time, filled with welcoming pilgrims and sharing Christ’s love and hope. Many pilgrims have expressed heartfelt thanks for the warmth and care they experienced during their visits.

We recognise that caring for our parish-family’s faith and needs is vital to our mission. As we look ahead to the coming months, we are eager to continue the spirit of good-work in building the Parish community through various events, activities and formations that will benefit both parishioners and pilgrims.

This month, Pope Leo XIV urges us to pray for societies to avoid conflicts due to ethnic, political, religious or ideological differences. His words are pertinent as Malaysia celebrates its 68th Merdeka Day, reminding us to respond to differences with kindness, respect and fraternity. Even locally, misunderstandings can occur among neighbours or across cultures. Peace begins with us – through forgiveness, listening and kindness. Small acts - such as offering greetings, showing patience and lending a helping hand - foster connections that unite rather than divide.

Together with building peace, we are also called to care for creation. This year marks the 10th anniversary of Laudato Si’ - Pope Francis’ encyclical on the care of our common home - reminding us that protecting our common home is both a moral and spiritual responsibility. As a parish, we have already taken small steps by placing recycling bins within our premises and reducing waste. However, the real challenge is an ecological conversion – a change of heart that shapes the way we live. We now pledge to carry these efforts forward by avoiding single-use plastic, conserving water and electricity, and teaching our children to love and respect nature. Even small changes at home can make a difference in our wider community.

Our Parish Pastoral Mission - guided by the Holy Spirit - calls us to cherish our faith, strengthen families and youth, build the Church from the grassroots, live synodality daily, root all service in prayer, respond to God’s call, celebrate the sacraments, be a welcoming Church, and live in ongoing repentance.

As we journey through the rest of the year, may we commit ourselves to peace, care for creation, and the mission that God has entrusted to us. Guided by the Holy Spirit, may we hear God’s Word - understand it, and live it out - so that our parish may shine as a community united in faith, active in love, and joyful in hope.

GOSPEL VALUES THROUGH ECOLOGICAL AWARENESS

On Saturday, 9 August 2025, our Parish hosted a special formation session on ecology and the environment. It was led by Rev Fr Andrew Manickam, the Ecclesiastical Assistant for Justice and Creation of the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, along with his team. We truly appreciated their presence, and we are grateful for their guidance as we came together to reflect on our important role as stewards of God’s beautiful creation.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the encyclical Laudato Si’, by Pope Francis, which calls the entire Church and all people of goodwill to care for our common home. It is a timely reminder for us at the Church of St. Thomas, Kuantan, to examine the ecological challenges around us, and to take meaningful and practical action as a community of faith.

As a parish, we have already started taking small but meaningful steps. A few months ago, we introduced recycling bins within our church grounds. Through ongoing efforts, such as catechesis and friendly reminders in our bulletins, we have begun educating our Parishioners about waste reduction and responsible disposal – and this is only the beginning!

This weekend, as we commit to ecological initiatives through the Parish Pledge, we invite everyone to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle. Recycling or avoiding plastic bags is simply not enough. Instead, we are called to an ecological conversion – a change of heart that enables us to live in harmony with God’s creation. Let us be more responsible in our consumption habits, reduce waste, promote sustainable transport such as carpooling, and be mindful of our resource use.

We encourage everyone in our Parish community to think about ways as to how we can reduce single-use plastic, improve recycling for paper, glass, plastics and metals, and lessen energy and water waste at home as well as in our Parish buildings. These may seem like small steps, but when everyone does their part, it creates an effective ripple effect. 

Let this formation be more than just an event, let it be the beginning of a new Parish lifestyle. We are called to become a community that cares – one that teaches our children the value of creation, supports each other in green initiatives, and influences our wider society by living out Gospel values through ecological awareness.

Each of us can take a moment to reflect on the daily choices we make: what are the choices that I am making daily that either harm or help God’s creation? Think about small changes you might initiate at home, at the workplace, or at school that make a real difference. As a parish family, let’s find ways to support and encourage one another through this meaningful journey. Together, let us embrace this call as a joyful mission, filled with love for the earth, for generations to come.

BUILD PEACE FROM WITHIN

In his prayer intention for August 2025, Pope Leo XIV invites us to pray, “that societies avoid internal conflicts due to ethnic, political, religious or ideological reasons.” His call is simple yet profoundly challenging: that we become people of peace, especially as we prepare to celebrate our 68th Merdeka Day on 31 August.

The Pope reminds us that we live in a world filled with fear and division. “We build walls instead of bridges and forget that we are brothers and sisters.” He urges us to respond to conflict not with anger or suspicion, but with kindness, attention and gestures of fraternity.

We don’t have to look far to see how these divisions are forming. Even in a peaceful area like the East Coast of the Peninsula - with its coastal beauty and multicultural harmony - minor tensions can arise, such as misunderstandings between neighbours, religious or ideological differences, or mistrust among ethnic groups, or political influences that sometimes stir unrest rather than offer solutions. 

In recent times, we have witnessed a rise in political tensions and disunity across the nation. Some leaders, despite having been discredited or removed, continue to push personal agendas in an attempt to regain power. Often, in the name of “protecting or fighting for the rights of the rakyat,” they prioritise their own interests. It is clear that political ambition, family legacy, and personal gain seem to matter more than truth, justice, and the well-being of the people.

Worse still, these conflicts can deeply affect our multi-racial and multi-religious society. When ethnic or religious sentiments are used for political gain, the consequences can be long-lasting. We begin to see each other with distrust. This often leads us to view each other suspiciously - building walls of prejudice and shutting out dialogue. Consequently, peace can easily fall apart.

Yet, the Holy Father’s intention invites us to walk a different path — a path of hope, healing, and unity. During this Jubilee Year of Hope - and as we approach Merdeka - let’s wholeheartedly answer the call to become peacemakers in our home, society, community, and nation. Remember, peace starts from within — in the way we choose to forgive, the way we treat those different from us, and the way we listen with respect.

Small acts of kindness, words, actions and understanding are more powerful than we realise. Every dialogue and gesture of goodwill can become a bridge that brings us closer together, rather than a wall that divides us. Let us set aside pride and prejudice and recognise others with the same dignity, compassion and love that God shows us. 

As Malaysians, our strength is in our unity. Let us not allow narrow interests to divide us. Instead, may this August be a time when we choose to live the Pope’s intention, build peace from within, and become instruments of harmony in our family, church, and society. Peace is not a faraway dream. It begins with us – here and now.

THEIR PRESENCE, OUR BLESSING

This weekend, we honour the pillars of our families on a meaningful occasion – the 5th World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, established by Pope Francis. It is observed each year near the feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus. The theme this year is entitled “Blessed are those who have not lost hope” (Sirach 14:2).

In a world that often focuses on youth and quickness, the elderly are too easily sidelined. However, the Church, in her wisdom, gently urges us to slow our pace and open our hearts to those who are the living memories of our families and communities. Like Saints Joachim and Anne, many grandparents possess a wealth of wisdom, prayer, and a faith that has endured life’s challenges and the passing years. They truly are, in every way, the quiet pillars of our families.

During this Jubilee Year of Hope, as part of this celebration, a plenary indulgence is granted to those who participate in Mass for this World Day. It is also wonderful to reach out to the elderly with acts of kindness – whether by visiting, calling, or bringing them Holy Communion with love and reverence. Even a simple act, such as praying for them or offering a comforting call, can become a meaningful channel of grace and blessings.

During the pandemic lockdown, I visited an elderly woman who lived alone. Her children were overseas, and the silence in her house felt quite heavy at times. One day, she shared, “Father, it is hard. Sometimes I cry. But when you bring me Holy Communion, I feel Jesus is with me – and I am at peace.” I still visit her and a few others whom I know dearly occasionally with Holy Communion.

She was not the only one. There were others – men and women whose homes were quiet but whose hearts still beat loudly with hope. Although many have not seen their families for months, when we bring Jesus to them in Holy Communion or on our personal visits, their eyes sparkle with joy, and their hope is rekindled.

To our young people and families: Let’s make this a wonderful weekend filled with prayer, gratitude, and outreach. Many of our beloved elderly friends may feel lonely, confined to their homes, or facing health challenges. Let’s reach out to them – not just with gifts, but with warm hearts full of love and care. Take the time to sit and listen to their stories and assist them with small tasks. Invite them to share a meal with you. Let their perseverance inspire the younger generation. Let them bless your children and pray over you. Their voices can truly guide and uplift us. Their presence is not a burden but a blessing that enriches us all!

GOD BLESS OUR DEAR GRANDPARENTS AND THE ELDERLY.

YOUR LOVE IS OUR TREASURE!

HONOURING GRANDPARENTS AND THE ELDERLY IN THE JUBILEE YEAR

This year, the Catholic Church commemorates the 5th World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly on Sunday, 27 July 2025, with the heartfelt theme “Blessed are those who have not lost hope” (cf. Sirach 14:2). Established by Pope Francis in 2021, this special day is celebrated each year on the fourth Sunday of July – close to the feast of Saints Joachim and Anne - honouring grandparents and the elderly within families and the Church. The theme highlights the dignity of the elderly and promotes trust in the Lord during old age.

Pope Francis urged elderly grandparents to rediscover hope as a source of joy and happiness during the Jubilee Year of Hope. He reflected on biblical figures like Abraham, Sarah, Moses, and Zechariah – called by God in their old age – to show that God never ceases to work through us, regardless of our age. He emphasised that old age is not a time of decline, but a time of grace, blessing and mission.

The late Pope emphasised that our elderly are true witnesses of hope, and play a vital role in passing down faith, wisdom and values to the younger generation. Like Jacob, who blessed his grandchildren, today’s elders are called to guide the young with their rich experience and compassionate care. In return, the youth are encouraged to support and learn from their wise elders and to foster a bond of mutual respect and growth.

Pope Francis reminded us that every elderly person, even with their weaknesses, can still love, pray and hope. Their suffering can shine brightly as a testament to God’s love and His divine presence. Visiting the elderly is not just a gesture - it is like a meaningful pilgrimage to Christ, especially for those who cannot make the journey to Rome. Let us cherish and nurture our grandparents and elderly loved ones, recognising how their faith, presence and prayers continue to inspire and shape our future.

In this Jubilee of hope and renewal, Pope Francis warmly called for a gentle change in how society cares for our elderly. Too often, they can feel forgotten, lonely and overlooked, but he invited us to make a heartfelt difference. He called on the Church to lead a beautiful “revolution of tenderness and gratitude” by visiting seniors, welcoming them into prayer groups, and restoring their dignity.

During this Jubilee Year, Pope Leo XIV encouraged prioritising the elderly who are unable to join pilgrimages to the designated parishes. A plenary indulgence is graciously granted to all who attend Mass or prayer services throughout this week, or visit elderly friends and neighbours, whether in person or virtually. This includes those who are lonely, unwell, or facing disability. It is a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate kindness and compassion!

Let this be a week of prayer, gratitude, and outreach. We are invited to recite the Rosary and offer special intentions for our grandparents and the elderly. Spend quality time with them or reach out to them, and encourage grandchildren and young people to listen to their stories and recognise their irreplaceable role in the family and the Church. 

Lord, bless our grandparents and the elderly with joy, strength and hope, and may we always honour them with love and gratitude.

MY LORD, MY GOD AND MY HOPE

Over the past ten days, we have experienced a beautiful and faith-filled celebration of our Parish feast. Our Parishioners, as well as pilgrims from around the Klang Valley, came together with deep devotion to honour our beloved Patron - St Thomas, the Greatest Gift of Our Times. Each day’s celebration brought us closer to understanding how Thomas’ journey from doubt to faith, continues to inspire us today. Through daily reflection on the sub-themes of the day, and Eucharistic celebrations, we are reminded that when we encounter Christ, our hearts are touched and transformed, and we are filled with hope. Now, like St Thomas, we are called to believe in Christ and courageously go on mission.

One of the most moving moments of the novena was the Anointing of the Sick, where over 150 individuals came forward seeking healing. It was a powerful reminder that the wounds of Christ are our hope, strength and healing. The overall celebrations have revitalised our spirit and affirmed that St Thomas remains a guiding light in our times. As we look ahead, may we continue to turn to our patron saint to lead us deeper in faith and strengthen our hope.

Now, as we are already in the second half of 2025, we are encouraged to reflect on our spiritual journey once again. The midpoint of the year is not just a passing moment, but a spiritual opportunity for growth. In this Jubilee Year, we are called to let go of what holds us back, embrace healing and renewal, and step into new beginnings with faith and courage. It is a time of transformation, where the Holy Spirit continues to inspire us to witness fearlessly and share in the Lord’s goodness authentically.

This weekend, we gather with warm hearts to support and pray for our Confirmation camp participants. Approximately 18 participants - led by dedicated facilitators headed by Alvin Fernandez - will be guided in their preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation. May the Holy Spirit inspire their hearts, helping them grow in faith, deepen their love for Christ, and live out their baptismal call with confidence, courage and joy.

On Saturday, 12 July 2025, we also warmly welcome 80 young people from the Archdiocese Single Adults and Youth Office (ASAYO) and 20 of our Parish youth, for the Jubilee of Youth celebration. May their experience help them to live their faith with purpose and passion. Furthermore, may our Parish youth find inspiration to discern their vocations and assume leadership roles within the Church of today.

Like St Thomas, the Apostle, may we move from uncertainty to one of confident witness, from searching, to proclaiming – “My Lord, My God and My Hope.” Let us walk forward together as pilgrims of faith and messengers of hope, trusting that God guides us at every step, especially as we focus on Formation in Discernment this month, in line with the Pope’s intention. May our eyes remain fixed on Christ, our hearts anchored in hope, and our lives committed to love.

WITH ST THOMAS: WE DISCERN, WE SEEK, WE BELIEVE

This month of July, the Pope’s intention for the Universal Church focuses on the theme of Formation in Discernment. His intention is that we may “learn again how to discern, to know how to choose paths of life and reject everything that leads us away from Christ and the Gospel.” 

In a world filled with noise, choices, and nonstop activity, discernment can be a challenging task. Discernment enables us to pause and reflect on our choices and the direction of our lives. Discernment is not reserved for the priestly and religious life. To discern, to listen, to seek, and to choose not merely what is good, but what is God’s will. It is also for the major life choices. It is a daily practice: how we speak, how we love, how we forgive, how we prioritise our time, how we respond to suffering, and how we remain faithful in both happy moments and trials. 

Formation in discernment must be grounded in prayer, enriched by the Word of God, directed by spiritual guidance, and affirmed through community and mission. This call to discernment comes at a beautiful moment for our Parish community of St Thomas, Kuantan, as we approach the conclusion of the feast of our patron, St Thomas, the Apostle, on 6 July 2025. Our novena, which began on 27 June 2025 and will culminate on Sunday, 6 July 2025, has been a truly grace-filled moment. We thank God for the inspiring presence of a few Presiders who have presided over our Novena, Feast and Thanksgiving Masses. 

During the first three days of the novena to St. Thomas, celebrated by Rev Fr Peter Anthoney and Rev Fr Xavier Andrew, which continued over the subsequent two days. Rev Fr Clement Lim presided on the sixth day of the novena. The last four days, from 3 to 6 July, featured Rev Fr Joe Stephen, CSsR, celebrating our novena Masses, which included the Anointing of the Sick, followed by a candlelight procession with the Most Blessed Sacrament and a Thanksgiving Mass to St. Thomas as a concluding feast.

Their preachings, prayers, and examples have helped open our hearts to deeper faith formation in discernment as we journey through the second half of this Jubilee Year of Hope. St. Thomas, known as “Doubting Thomas,” exemplifies sincere faith and courage. He teaches us that faith is not the absence of questions but the willingness to seek, touch, and meet the risen Christ. His journey from doubt to proclamation, from hesitation to mission, mirrors every believer’s search for the truth in Christ, Our Hope, who will never disappoint.

Our nine-day Novena Masses and a Thanksgiving Mass will guide us to discern rightly, live faithfully, and follow Christ wholeheartedly. Like St. Thomas, may we echo those powerful words: “My Lord and My God!” and thus choose the path of life.