CONNECT WITH THOSE IN POVERTY

This year, we celebrate the 8th World Day of the Poor (WDP) with the theme “The prayer of the poor rises up to God” (cf. Ecclesiasticus / Sirach 21:5), as chosen by Pope Francis. This verse highlights the special relationship between the poor and God, emphasising His attentiveness to their prayers and His quick response to their needs. The poor have always held a special place in His heart, and as they seek strength, hope and justice from Him, He reassures them with closeness - promising help and justice. He then calls us to embrace humility and empathy, encouraging us to care for the poor.

The WDP has become essential for every Christian community. It presents a pastoral opportunity to listen to the prayers of the poor and recognise their needs. We must thank the Lord for those who support the most vulnerable through their actions, and respond to the prayers of the needy. The poor teaches us valuable lessons, challenging a culture that prioritises wealth and often undermines human dignity. They remind us that the true essentials for life lie elsewhere.

The Holy Father launched the WDP in 2017. Since then, I have organised various events and activities in the parishes I served in - inviting the less fortunate, both locals and migrants - to celebrate with parishioners on a grand scale through annual fundraising projects. We utilised the funds raised at these events to provide the necessities for the poor as well as natural disaster victims - mainly flood victims – throughout the year.

However, after seven consecutive years of grand celebrations, we decided to observe WDP on a smaller scale this year. We have invited the poor, the Orang Asli and migrants from around our vicinity to our church for dinner after the Sunset Mass on Saturday. To facilitate the celebration, we have arranged buses for the Orang Asli and Indonesian migrants from the interior areas and plantations. 

Approximately 250 people, including parishioners, will sit together for a meal as a parish family to commemorate WDP. Several special dishes will be served, and we hope that it will be a memorable and pleasant fellowship for everyone.

On Sunday, 17 November 2024, we will celebrate our Parish Family Day. Over the past one month, we have made the necessary preparations and have sold 50 tables for the Thanksgiving dinner, celebrating a fruitful year and acknowledging our collective efforts towards the growth of our Parish.

The Holy Father, Pope Francis encourages the Church throughout the world to “step outside” its confines and connect with those experiencing poverty in our world today. As the Jubilee Year approaches, he encourages everyone to become pilgrims of hope, and to establish aspirations for a brighter future in 2025. Let’s cherish “the little details of love” (Gaudete et Exsultate, no. 145): taking moments to pause, offering our attention, sharing a smile, providing gentle touches, or speaking comforting words. Such actions demand a daily commitment fuelled by prayer.

DOING OUR BEST TO PREPARE FOR THE WORST

When November began, people on the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia have been monitoring the weather - especially those living in the outskirts of Kuantan City and the interior areas. In some areas of Pahang, we have noticed a change in weather patterns, with consistent nighttime rain followed by clear, bright skies during the day. This is a sign of pre-monsoon weather. Our dedicated Parish Flood Relief Task Force will monitor forecasts and local weather updates while preparing the groundwork for the upcoming monsoon season.

Around this time last year, our Parish Flood Relief Task Force had the opportunity to invite Mr Amala Dass from Port Klang, for an online session. He provided our team with vital guidelines and preparations for flood disasters. This year, Mr Amala Dass will conduct the briefing session in person at our Church on Tuesday, 12 November 2024, from 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm, to assist us in preparing for the approaching monsoon rains. Although everyone may be busy juggling many commitments, I don’t want our Parishioners to miss out on this opportunity. I strongly encourage all Parish Flood Relief Team members and the new recruits to attend this informative program. Together, we can ensure our team is prepared to be mobilised effectively to support those affected by floods.

Over the past two years, we have experienced a few floods in Pahang. Thankfully, they were not severe. We were fortunate not to have many flood-affected areas in Kuantan, Kuala Rompin, Muadzam Shah and Mentakab. Our community always stands ready to help, no matter what! Let’s keep ourselves informed about the flood-season this year and arm ourselves with helpful insights, together.

On 6 November 2024, despite the rainy weather, I had the pleasure of visiting the pre-war Christian cemetery in Sungai Lembing - just 60 kilometers from Kuantan City - along with four parishioners, for a blessing. This was my third visit to this historical cemetery, which contains approximately 50 plots, some adorned with tombstones and some of these with crosses that are broken and in need of repair. Most of those buried here are Chinese, and a few British individuals who worked in the tin mining industry. The tin mine ceased operations in the late 1970s due to the rise of the plastic industry in Malaysia. 

This little town, at the foot of the hills, has existed since the 1930s. It suffers from yearly floods that often reach the roofs of houses. It is truly heartbreaking to see the floodwaters invade their houses and disrupt local businesses. During my trip to this town, I noticed that many residents have already taken precautions before the floods, and some shops have decided to close early as a safety precaution. We pray that there won’t be severe floods in several parts of the East Coast this year.

“God, You are our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in times of trouble”         (Psalm 46:1).

 

JOURNEY TOWARDS COMMUNION

November is significant for the Catholic Church as we remember and pray for departed souls. All Souls Day comes right after the Solemnity of All Saints on November 1, honouring known and unknown saints. We celebrate our deep connection with our loved ones in heaven and in purgatory - bringing our earthly lives together with the spiritual realm through heartfelt prayers and loving memories.

Families from various cultures and religions honour and celebrate their beloved deceased relatives and friends in various ways. As Catholics, we visit cemeteries or columbariums to pray, bring bouquets, light candles or partake in heartfelt ceremonies that beautifully echo our spiritual beliefs. Visiting the resting places of deceased family members deepens our connection to our history and heritage, nurturing a sense of belonging. Many Catholics participate in special Masses and say particular prayers - finding peace or closure after a loss, helping them embrace their grief in a meaningful and thoughtful way.

The Catholic Church assures us of the spiritual bond between the living and the dead. According to Catholic belief, purgatory is a place of purification for those who have passed away in grace, but need a little more time before being fully admitted into the Kingdom of Heaven. Our loving prayers and sacrifices can help these souls in purgatory on their journey toward communion with the saints. It is comforting to know that our Mass offerings, prayers and sacrifices can uplift those in purgatory - assisting them as they prepare to enter the joyful and triumphant embrace of Heaven.

Throughout November, the Holy Father, Pope Francis, encourages us to take a moment to remember and pray for all the parents and others as well who are grieving the loss of their children. May they find comfort and support within their community and experience peace and consolation from the Holy Spirit.

It is a wonderful month for us to honour those we have lost, and it allows us to celebrate their lives as well as the memories they have left in our hearts. It is a beautiful way to keep our love for them alive - showing compassion and grace. It is a heartfelt expression of love that enriches our faith community. 

Remembering those who have passed not only upholds their legacy, but also connects us meaningfully - reflecting our enduring commitment to the well-being of everyone we hold dear - both in this life and beyond. The hope of resurrection and the belief in everlasting life can strengthen our faith in Jesus, who says, “I am the Resurrection and Life, whoever believes in me will have eternal life” (Jn 11: 25). Praying for those who have passed not only deepens our connection to them but also comforts us, reminding us that death is just a transition and a continuity of life.

FOSTERING THE GROWTH OF THE CHURCH

Pope Francis launched the Synod on Synodality in Vatican City, which took place at the end of the Covid 19 pandemic on 9-10 October 2021. The Synod Assembly was supposed to end in October 2023, but the Holy Father extended it until October 2024. All the concrete proposals for the future of the Church will be finalised by the end of this weekend, following the agenda set by the Instrumentum Laboris or Working Documents. This three-year Synod Assembly will officially conclude this Sunday, 27 October 2024, with the release of the final documents of the Synod on Synodality during Mass at St Peter’s Basilica.

Since 2021, we initiated the Synodality process in our parishes, embarking on a shared faith journey. This journey encourages all Church congregations, parishes, dioceses and countries worldwide to engage in meaningful listening, discernment and conversations in the Spirit. It enables collaborative decision-making, to foster the growth of the Church in today’s challenging world. We highlighted critical issues affecting all levels, including faith and moral dilemmas, evangelisation strategies, and social justice concerns. We ensured our voices would be recognised and valued, at the Synod Assembly 2023 and 2024.

The Synod on Synodality addresses critical topics, makes decisions on fundamental issues, and engages in deep theological discussions. Every Church member stays informed about the results of each session at the Synod Assembly. The Synod of Bishops carefully considers all significant issues and key matters that influence the Catholic Church, its governance, teachings and the decisions and actions made by the Church.

The Universal Church has been praying the Synodal prayer at almost every weekend Mass these past three years for a significant and meaningful Synod of Bishops 2024. We will end this Synodal prayer this weekend, and continue with the Jubilee Prayer 2025 – “Pilgrim of Hope”. Pope Francis designated it - inviting us to reflect on our prayer life - examining what we pray, how and why we pray. He wants us to go deeper into our prayer commitments and love for God, and accompany others in prayer during the Jubilee Year of Prayer. 

In the upcoming Jubilee Year, our Parish of St Thomas Kuantan has been selected as a pilgrimage destination within the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. Throughout the Jubilee Year, we, as a vibrant Synodal Church in the East Coast, remain committed to listening, discerning and conversing in the Spirit - faithfully considering the thoughts, insights and recommendations from the Synod of Bishops 2024, to enrich our life of the Church.

Let us embrace the core values of our Synod of Synodality, journeying together as we uplift one another to achieve unity in all diversities. Together, let us renew our dedication to serving our community better, and carry out the mission of the Church during this extraordinary Jubilee Year.

LET’S GO AND INVITE!

World Mission Sunday is celebrated on the second last Sunday of October, and this year it falls on 20 October 2024. This significant day brings Catholics together in prayer, solidarity, and worldwide support for missionaries and the Church’s missionary work. Pope Pius XI instituted this annual observance in 1926. It invites us to reflect on the importance of mission work in the life of the Church, and furthering Christ’s mission.

Pope Francis has chosen the theme, “Go and Invite Everyone to the Banquet” (Matthew 22: 9), for this year, emphasising that the host sends his servants to invite everyone – no matter their social status, background, or previous invitation – to partake in the feast. The banquet represents the church’s joyful spiritual celebration, capturing the warmth and hospitality that Christian communities extend to everyone who seeks God. This uplifting theme motivates the community of faithful to actively share God’s love with open hearts. Let’s engage in this global mission to share the Gospel, and warmly extend invitations for everyone to experience the joy of Christ’s message.

The theme truly inspires our church ministries to dive into outreach programs and reflect on our universal mission to share the Good News to every corner of the world. For those unable to physically participate, we encourage you to offer prayers for the missionaries and active members, as they engage in this meaningful mission. This is symbolised by the banquet, where everyone is invited to partake in the blessings of God’s kingdom. 

God’s invitation to salvation and grace is for everyone, not just a select few. The invitation must be extended with urgency, reflecting the need for mission work and evangelisation in today’s world, especially to those who have not yet encountered Christ. As Christians, we are called to reach out to all people - regardless of race, culture or status - welcoming them into the faith.

“Let’s go and invite!” This perspective is just as vital for us today as it invites us to share the joy of our faith, knowing that “the Lord is near.” In the early days of Christianity, the passionate drive to spread the Gospel was closely linked to their beliefs about the end times, creating a heartfelt urgency. This mission focuses on joyfully welcoming others to the Lord’s banquet. 

In contrast, the world may tempt us with its own version of “banquets” – such as consumerism, selfish comfort, wealth and individualism. However, the Gospel lovingly invites everyone to join in a divine celebration filled with joy, sharing, justice and a sense of togetherness with God and one another. Our primary responsibility is to lead the lost to the Gospel, and take it to those in need. Let’s go and invite everyone to meet Our Saviour and Our King!

LISTENING AND DISCERNING GOD’S WILL

The 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops commenced on 2 October with an opening Mass at St. Peter’s Square, Vatican City. Before beginning the Synod, the participants had a two-day retreat, followed by a Penitential Prayer Vigil led by Pope Francis, praying for forgiveness to foster a reflective and penitential approach in preparation for discussions. This has set them on a central theme of the Synod’s preparation as they enter into the conversations in the Spirit, listening, discerning, and engaging in an open dialogue process.

One of the topics is women deacons, which will generate significant discussion and various opinions within the Synod. The female participants speak about women’s experiences and calls to the priesthood. Some women “sense a call to the priesthood,” highlighting a growing recognition of women’s roles in the Church. This sentiment reflects a broader cultural, canonical, or theological dialogue about gender, vocation, and leadership roles in the future of the Church. 

The question of allowing Catholic women to become permanent deacons has been a significant topic during Pope Francis’ papacy. He has encouraged open dialogue regarding women’s roles, indicating that while changes might not happen overnight, there is room for exploration and understanding. The historical role of deaconesses in the early Church suggests a willingness of the Pope to explore the matter further. He proposes that potential changes should be based on thorough study and reflection in reshaping women’s roles within Church structures.

October is traditionally dedicated to the Rosary. Praying the Rosary, with focus on reshaping women’s role within the Church, is a powerful reflection. Journeying with Mary toward a Synodal Church invites us to walk together in faith. The synodal journey is about listening and discerning God’s will as a Church, and praying for guidance, unity, and wisdom is vital. A truly synodal Church listens to all its members, especially those often unheard. As we pray, we can ask the Holy Spirit for wisdom to guide the Church in recognising and valuing the unique gifts that women bring to its life and mission.

Let’s pray together with these intentions in mind: unity and openness to the Holy Spirit. Meditating on the mysteries of the Rosary reminds us of Mary’s vital role in salvation history—a model of strength, humility, and faithful discipleship. Reflecting on her example can inspire deeper conversations about women’s leadership, contributions, and voices within the Church today.

We aim to build a Synodal Church that actively listens, walks together, and discerns God’s will as a community of disciples. Offering prayers for the success of the Synodal process, along with personal intentions and expressions of gratitude for blessings, aligns beautifully with the theme of journeying together in faith during October. May our prayers foster a spirit of greater inclusion, collaboration, and understanding as we journey together with Mary.

STRENGTHENING THE CHURCH’S MISSION AND STRUCTURE

The second session of the 16^th General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops commenced on 4 – 29 October 2024 at Vatican City. About 480 participants, including voting and non-voting members, had a two-day retreat and penitential vigil in preparation for the upcoming Synod, centring around the theme “For A Synodal Church in Mission.”

The Synod on Synodality Assembly took place from October 2021 to October 2024 and involved a lot of listening, discussion, and sharing by lay people, consecrated persons, and clergy. Initially scheduled to conclude in October 2023, the Holy Father extended this for a year to allow for more listening, discernment, and “Conversations in the Spirit” to address the challenges the Church faces. The Church has been continuing the discussion and discernment at parish, diocesan, national, and continental levels before sending the synthesis to the General Assembly.

The first session of the Synodal Process, 2023, focused on how the Church could effectively engage with the modern world by promoting participation, communion, and mission in the face of various challenges. It aimed to make the Church more inclusive and open to lay people, women, and youth involvement.

The second session of the ongoing Synod in October 2024 marks a significant step towards fostering a more participatory approach, dialogue, openness, pastoral strategy, and collaboration in the Church’s mission. Additionally, the critical issues discussed in the first session will be revisited during the second session of the Synod Assembly, with a specific focus on Women Deacons and the Church’s approach to LGBTQ+ individuals. The role of Women Deacons must be considered in the context of the ministerial priesthood. The examination will also address how the Church’s doctrine can engage with LGBTQ+ issues, pastoral care, and ethical considerations.

The Holy Father, Pope Francis, is encouraging the Synod 2024 to broaden its focus to include Church structures, theology, and mission. This means moving beyond controversial issues to clarify the Church’s hierarchical system and the implications of clericalism in governance and pastoral care. Additionally, the ongoing ecumenical dialogue will be a crucial point of discussion aimed at promoting unity and cooperation.

Pope Francis insists on the greater involvement of the laity, both men and women, in contributing their skills and insights. He strongly advocates for their participation in decision-making at all levels. We hope the Synod aims to create a balanced approach that addresses unresolved issues and strengthens the Church’s mission and structure, promoting inclusivity across all levels.

October is a significant month for us Catholics, inviting us to integrate the Rosary into our daily routine. The Holy Father has designated 7 October – the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary – a day for prayer and fasting for peace in Palestine and Israel. He is also committed to seeking guidance, grace, and fruitful deliberations for the ongoing Synod in 2024.

UNDERSTANDING HUMANITY

Since 1914, the Universal Church has upheld a tradition of celebrating the World Day of Migrants and Refugees (WDMR). This annual event is a testament to our enduring solidarity and concern for the vulnerable, particularly those whose lives have been torn apart by war and conflict. It is a time when we come together to pray for those facing life’s challenges and raise awareness about the opportunities migration presents.

Each year, without fail, the Church celebrates this occasion on the last Sunday of September.  This year marks the 110th WDMR celebration, and it falls on 29 September 2024. Our Holy Father, Pope Francis, has chosen the theme, “God Walks with His People.” In their journey, migrants and refugees see God as their steadfast travelling companion, guide and source of strength, journeying towards our “true homeland”. They trust in Him and seek comfort in times of need, finding reassurance and hope in His presence.

The Book of Exodus recounts the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to the Promised Land, moving from slavery to freedom over a span of 40 years. This journey symbolises the pilgrims of the Church, the people of God, from the earthly to the heavenly kingdom, to be in communion with the Lord (cf. Lumen Gentium, #49). In today’s world, we see migrants and refugees who have left their homeland and are struggling in foreign lands, with many looking for resettlement or ways to return home. Their experiences reflect a profound journey towards their eternal homeland to become citizens of heaven (cf. Phil 3: 20).

One of the most enriching ministries throughout my priestly life has been the pleasure of working with migrants and refugees who come from various cultures, religions and backgrounds. While at the Church of St. Joseph in Sentul, Kuala Lumpur, I had the opportunity to deeply engage with migrants and refugees living in the Klang Valley - namely from Myanmar, Sri Lanka, Pakistan and India. Upon my transfer to Kuantan, I continued working with other migrants and refugees, primarily Indonesians who work in oil palm plantations, sawmills and construction.

Working and ministering with migrants and refugees has been an eye-opening experience for me. It is all about realising the Gospel spirit – “I was a stranger, and you welcomed me” (MT 25: 35). I have come to understand the importance of showing empathy and care for these individuals who have left their homeland to find new prospects, and live their lives in a new land. I take great pride in working closely with them, addressing their pastoral and physical needs, and in return, I have learned so much. This experience significantly impacted me, broadening my understanding of humanity and shaping my priestly ministry.

By reaching out to them, we can make them feel welcomed and accepted. Let’s journey with them, be “synodal” together, and offer hope and consolation so they may feel at home within our plural society and culture.

FULFILLING THE MISSION OF CHRIST

Every year in September, the clergy members in Peninsular Malaysia gather for their annual spiritual retreat, which is held at three different locations: the first week of September in Cameron Highlands, the second and fourth weeks in Penang, and the third week at MAJODI Centre, Plentong, Johor. This six-day retreat begins on Sunday evening and concludes on Friday evening. Twenty-three of us were at the retreat at the MAJODI Centre, conducted by Rev. Fr. John Mc Gowan, ODC, a priest from the Carmelite Congregation in England. He has been a priest for 42 years and is currently assigned to the Parish of St. Joseph in England.

On the first day, the retreat Master highlighted several key points from the Vatican II document on the Ministry and Life of Priests, known as Presbyterorum Ordinis (PO). He reminded us that the Sacrament of Holy Orders leaves an indelible mark and encourages us to embrace our role in representing Christ, Persona Christi (cf. PO #2). He reminded us that as Priests, our primary duty is to communicate the Gospel using language that resonates with people and to convey Christ’s message through words and actions (cf. PO #4). Additionally, he stressed the significance of celibacy as a valuable gift to the priesthood, along with the virtues of humility and obedience (PO #16), guided by the Holy Spirit.

The next day, he led us in studying the teachings of St. Paul’s Epistles and his spirituality, where “Love is all you need.” As Priests, we often encounter obstacles, struggles, and challenges in the ministry. St Paul truly understood the pain and suffering of Christ, and for him, “to live is Christ and to die is gain” (Eph 1: 21). This is the central message of Paul because, from his conversion till his martyrdom, he proclaimed the Gospel of Christ, imitated Christ and pursued the knowledge of Christ. Jesus, who initiated the vocation to the Priesthood in us, is our source of strength and wisdom throughout our ministry. Whoever lives for Christ, His love will never let us down (cf. Rom 5:50).

Our attention then turned to the Synod of Synodality 2023 for the next two days. It was a great opportunity to review a few documents like Evangelii Gaudium, Christifideles Laici, Evangelii Nuntiandi, and Instrumentum Laboris. These documents are designed to help us discover our unique charisms and draw inspiration from our love for Christ and the Church. They also underscore the importance of our collaboration with the laity and our shared responsibility in strengthening the Church and fulfilling the mission of Christ.

As our retreat came to a close, we deeply explored the spirituality of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus and the importance of prayer in the life of priests. Her profound influence based on her life and teachings on humility, love, the missionary spirit, and prayer are truly remarkable and inspiring. We seek her guidance through exemplary virtues of humility and unwavering love for the Church and missionaries. As the patroness of missions and missionaries, we humbly ask for her intercession to nurture with the spirit of love, humility and prayer.

“Let us love since that is what our hearts were made for.” (St Theresa of Lisieux)

 

UNITED IN ONE MISSION

Photo Credited: Kathelen

Papal visits are all about building diplomatic and evangelical relationships, strengthening the bond between the Church and other nations. Their visits continuously enhance the lives of Catholics - both inside and outside a country’s borders, particularly in regions with a significant Catholic population. When the Pope visits different countries, it allows political leaders to develop a better understanding of international and Church issues.

Despite his age, limited mobility, and need for a wheelchair, Pope Francis embarked on his 45th international trip—a testament to his unwavering commitment to his mission. His recent visits to Indonesia, Papua New Guinea (PNG), East Timor, and Singapore from 2 to 13 September 2024 were exceptional opportunities for many Catholics who would otherwise not have the chance to meet the Pope in Rome.

Pope Francis made his first stop in Indonesia - the world’s largest Muslim country - with a 2.9% Catholic population, from 2-6 September. During his visit, he encouraged Catholics to embrace the nation’s motto, “Unity in Diversity”, and commended Indonesia’s constitution for its dedication to religious freedom. He emphasised the significance of interfaith dialogue in fostering mutual respect and eradicating prejudices. The Pope participated in an interreligious dialogue, meeting with representatives of Indonesia’s official religions and other traditional beliefs.

Photo Credited: aleteia.org

His second stop was Papua New Guinea (PNG), where he visited remote areas with little electricity and no running water. He brought a large amount of medicine, clothing and toys to distribute to the people in those areas. He urged the Church leaders in PNG to actively work with marginalised communities, the underprivileged and those with disabilities. He emphasised the importance of the Catholic Church in providing tender care, compassion and hope while offering spiritual support to underserved communities.

After his time in PNG, Pope Francis went on a three-day visit to East Timor - also known as Timor Leste - a country with deep Catholic roots after Vatican City. This country endured brutal oppression by Indonesian militants and suffered significant losses, with almost a quarter of its 800,000 people lost, before gaining independence in 2002. Pope Francis uplifted local Catholics and missionaries, encouraging them to hold onto their faith. He also urged the youth to remember the sacrifices of the older generation in building the nation and to work towards peace, prosperity and reconciliation.

His last stop in Singapore was joyous and hopeful, with a message of love and charity. Celebrating Mass with 50,000 Catholics, he emphasised the importance of these virtues, stating that without love and charity, our faith would not flourish. Pope Francis urged Singapore’s political leaders to ensure fair wages and dignity for lower-paid foreign workers. He also highlighted the importance of considering the needs of the poor and the elderly, instilling a sense of hope and compassion. He also appreciated Singapore’s plural society, where various ethnicities, cultures and religions live together in harmony.

The Holy Father’s apostolic visit to these four countries in the Asia-Pacific region over 12 days has brought graces and blessings to these nations, their people and even other Christians and people of different faiths. We keep our prayers and hope that his trip renewed our faith and united us in one mission –  evangelisation in Asia. After his departure, he left a lasting impact, making everyone feel valued and giving them treasured life experiences. 

“Viva, Viva, Papa Francesco!” (Long live Pope Francis)

Photo Credited: ncregis.org

Photo Credited: vaticannews.va

Photo Credited: apnews.com

Photo Credited: zenit.org

Photo Credited: aleteia.org

Photo Credited: CatholicSG Websites

SERVICE WITH HONOUR AND RESPECT

The local community gathered to honour and bid farewell to Rev. Fr. Jean Claude at his home parish, the Church of St. Joseph in Sentul, Kuala Lumpur. Many people from the parishes he had previously served attended the funeral Mass, along with approximately 60 priests from Peninsular Malaysia. Archbishop Julian Leow presided over the Mass, making it a meaningful and respectful occasion.

Fr Jean Claude and I had the pleasure of working together not just once but twice – first in the Pahang/Terengganu District (2004-2006) and later in the KL North District (2014-2015). We would occasionally meet up and have a good chit-chat. When Fr Jean Claude was appointed Administrator for the Church of the Risen Christ in Kuala Lumpur, I left him to manage the Parish independently for a few months. We worked together for at least a year before he became a Parish Priest for the Church of the Risen Christ. Wherever he served, parishioners liked his lively, concise, precise homilies and efficient Mass. He was a man of few words.

We are deeply saddened by the passing of our dear Rev Fr Jean Claude on September 1, 2024, at Sri Seronok in Cheras (Priest Retirement Home). We are grateful for his dedicated service as a priest in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. May he receive his well-deserved reward in God’s Kingdom. May he rest in eternal peace, and may perpetual light shine upon him.

When a Catholic Clergy member (Bishop, Priest, or Deacon) passes away, there are some differences in the funeral arrangements when compared to those for laypeople. The body of the late Clergy member is positioned where the head of the deceased faces the people, similar to how the Clergy would face the congregation during the Eucharistic celebration when they were alive. The body of the deceased Clergy member is fully vested with Mass vestments (alb, stole, chasuble, etc.), and for some, who may have preferred, the chasuble worn on their ordination day. This is a profound sign of the respect and honour shown to the deceased. Usually, the Bishop will preside over the funeral Mass for the Priests or Deacons, symbolising unity and leadership within the Church. 

For a layperson, the deceased body is usually positioned with the face looking towards the altar during the funeral Mass, which is celebrated at the deceased’s parish. The rituals and prayers during the Mass are generally the same for every Catholic, including the Clergy and the Pope. However, if the priest has been removed from active ministry, the diocesan bishop may have specific restrictions on the type of rites permitted.

The funeral Mass for a deceased priest or deacon is typically celebrated at their home parish or at the last parish where he served. A deceased diocesan Bishop’s funeral Mass is usually held at their Cathedral unless they had chosen another church. Traditionally, the Pope’s body is displayed without a coffin so that people can come and pay their last respects.

“Save us, Lord, while we are awake; protect us while we sleep; that we may keep watch with Christ and rest with Him in peace.”

    Credited: 

https://images.app.goo.gl/XmcUrRcrnyAsaBgY7

 

CONVERSATIONS IN SPIRIT

The Regional Pastoral Assembly (RPA) of Peninsular Malaysia 2024 was held at the Majodi Center in Plentong, Johor, from 25 – 27 August. The chosen theme for the RPA was “Celebrate, Listen, and Walk” as part of the journey towards the first-ever Malaysia Pastoral Convention (MPC) 2026. The assembly brought together 500 Catholics (Clergy, Religious People, Seminarians and Lay People) from three Dioceses in Peninsular Malaysia, along with two representatives — Fr Thomas Madanan from Sabah and Fr Patrick Heng from Sarawak. 

Monsignor Jude Miranda, the Chairman of the Peninsular Malaysia Pastoral Team (PMPT) and his two companions as moderators, Frs Simon Labrooy and Lawrence Ng, successfully organised the RPA with their committed team. The team did a fantastic job, facilitating open sharing and constructive feedback, enabling all participants to gain valuable insight as we worked towards a deeper understanding of the synodality of the Church, and preparing us towards MPC 2026. Their thoughtful planning and completion made the assembly a truly significant, historic and memorable event, leaving all participants eagerly anticipating the continuation of the conversation of the Spirit during and beyond the assembly. 

Throughout the event, participants engaged in a series of discussions on four fundamental topics: Family, Church, Ecology and Society. These discussions have been ongoing at regional and parish levels for years, providing valuable opportunities for meaningful dialogue and collaboration for Church growth. The three-day RPA gathering enabled reflection, prayer and idea-sharing for the upcoming MPC. Participants were encouraged to bring these ideas back to their parishes for further conversation in the Spirit.

This year, we are commemorating the 48th anniversary of Aggiornamento 1976, and we feel more connected and assertive than ever before, in our faith as Christ-centred individuals. The RPA kept everyone rooted and steadfast in our relationship with the Church and the Trinitarian God. As followers of Christ, we recognise that success in any endeavour is not the sole objective, but instead, making earnest effort and seeking grace from God are crucial aspects of living a Christian life. We are committed to embracing meaningful experiences and wholeheartedly pursuing God’s glory, much like an athlete striving to win a race. The RPA has reassured and strengthened our faith, and we are more committed to our faith journey.

The RPA has sparked my inward renewal and instilled a deep desire to pursue knowledge and wisdom. I recognise the importance of learning, engaging in conversations and fulfilling tasks within my ministry and Parish work. The RPA has been a source of inspiration, motivating me to bring back what I have gained, and to connect with my Parishioners and various ministries through celebrations, attentive listening and meaningful conversations in the Spirit. I am ready to navigate the challenges of my Parish and Priestly ministry with an open heart and with humility - always willing to learn and discern. “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek knowledge” (Proverbs 18:15).