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).

IN HARMONY AND PATRIOTISM

Congratulations Malaysia, on your upcoming 67th year of Independence!

We will celebrate National Day in a weeks’ time! We commemorate our 67th Merdeka Day on 31 August 2024 with the theme “Malaysia MADANI: Jiwa Merdeka” (Malaysia MADANI: Independent Soul). The same theme will be carried over to Malaysia Day, which will be celebrated on 16 September 2024. The Cabinet has agreed to retain last year’s National Day logo, and celebrations will be held in Putrajaya for the sixth time, and the second time under the MADANI government. This year, Malaysia Day will be celebrated in Sabah. 

Jiwa Merdeka symbolises “the people’s freedom from any negative influences in interpreting the patriotic spirit through aspects of thought, social integration, and the economy.” It aims to foster strong, harmonious and progressive public unity. Despite the numerous challenges, we have been fortunate to witness the magnificent public celebrations, exhibitions and parades, which remind all Malaysians of their dedication and contributions to the nation’s growth over the past 66 years. Malaysia MADANI aims to cultivate patriotism among Malaysians, which is crucial for the country’s prosperity and progress.

All Malaysians are encouraged to adorn their homes and offices with the Jalur Gemilang and take pride in doing so. It is a great way to show our love for our country. National Day aims to unite all Malaysians in harmony and patriotism, regardless of our background. Let’s celebrate as One Malaysia (Satu Malaysia) regardless of race or religion.

Most Malaysians celebrate National Day or any public holiday by taking a break from their usual routine. Some truly understand and appreciate the day. For others, it is another holiday to relax with family and friends. At midnight on 31 August, many wait for the countdown to kick off the celebrations with dazzling fireworks illuminating the skies. In the morning of the same day, parades are usually held at designated locations where people gather to witness them.

As Malaysians, it brings us much joy to call Malaysia our home. We understand that not everything is going smoothly in our nation, and we acknowledge the issues our nation has to grapple with. We are only ashamed of the politicians who have brought our country to its knees. We are chagrined by the racial politics, racial polarisation and religious extremism still present in our country, and we hope to work together to overcome this and to make Malaysia even better. Our hope for a better Malaysia is what keeps us going.

Our collective efforts, perseverance and hard work will be pivotal in driving our country forward. “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” (Proverbs 11: 14).

NURTURING KINDNESS, CHARITY AND GRACE

The First Prison Ministry Mass was celebrated at the Church of the Holy Family in Kajang, on Saturday, 17 April 2024 at 11am. This Mass was especially for all Prison Ministry volunteers in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. The Archdiocesan Catholic Prison Ministry (ACPM) was excited to get together and celebrate their First Eucharistic celebration on a truly meaningful Prison Ministry Day. It marks a new chapter in their mission.

In June 2024, the ACPM wrote a letter to Archbishop Julian Leow requesting that 14 August be designated as Prison Ministry Day in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. With His Grace’s kind approval, we were able to proceed accordingly. On Wednesday, 14 August 2024 the Universal Church commemorated the memorial of St. Maximilian Kolbe, and in conjunction with this, the ACPM kindly requested that all priests in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur offer particular intentions for the prisoners, their families and all the dedicated volunteers during the Eucharistic celebrations, hoping to uplift their spirits and support their meaningful work.

The ACPM, founded in 1985 by Sister Catherine O’Sullivan IJ, began with a heartfelt mission to help incarcerated individuals regain their self-respect and dignity. This ministry supports them in becoming valuable members of society after their release. It also hopes that through their efforts, these individuals would be able to live fulfilling lives, and be warmly welcomed into society once again.

Each time when priests and volunteers visit correctional centres, they learn to understand the challenging experiences of the incarcerated people. We desire to treat each one of them with love, compassion and respect. Through faith-sharing, they are guided closer to God and made aware of his divine presence and love. Their troubled hearts are comforted by fostering trust in God.

Through the kindness of the Mother Superior of the Infant Jesus of Malaysia, Theresa Chua, I am in contact with Sr Catherine O’Sullivan IJ via email. Two weeks ago, she sent an email introducing her wonderful self, and she also shared her personal experience teaching in Seremban IJ Convent in the 1970s. After much discernment, she felt inspired to venture into the prison ministry in 1980, until she returned to Ireland in 1986.

She shared her heartfelt experiences with a Methodist Church minister - travelling to prisons, visiting our brothers and sisters and guiding them towards a brighter future. Over six years, they visited eleven prisons throughout Peninsular Malaysia, carrying the spirit of the Gospel’s message, “I was in Prison, and you visited me” (Matt 25:35f), offering comfort and healing both inside the prison walls and beyond. Their mission resonated with the words of the Prophet Isaiah: “I, the Lord, have called you and shaped you to bring out prisoners from confinement and those who live in darkness from the dungeons” (42:7), to liberate captives from prisons.

One of her earnest wishes is for all individuals involved in this Prison Ministry to persistently strive and support those who feel most neglected in our society. Let’s nurture kindness, charity and grace, so they can find meaning in life through our dedicated involvement in the prison ministry.

SERVING WITH HUMILITY AND OBEDIENCE

The BEC reflection for August 2024 invites us, as Christian leaders and disciples of Christ, to embrace the powerful concept of Servant Leadership. It is a living principle that we actively follow in our roles within the Church community. It inspires us to serve with humility and obedience - following the example of Christ Jesus.

At the heart of our Christian servant leadership is our unwavering commitment to honesty and integrity. This commitment inspires us to lead with openness and truth, earning the trust and respect of our parishioners. It also encourages teamwork and open communication and fosters a strong sense of community within our Church.

Many of our parishioners often see themselves as ineffective leaders and acknowledge their shortcomings. We tend to focus on our weaknesses and overlook our strengths and positive qualities. Rather than striving for ambitious strategies, real leadership is all about serving, helping and looking out for the needs and well-being of those around us.

A truly effective servant leader must be an active listener during the decision-making process. If a leader fails to listen to their team members, they will miss out on valuable insights, ideas and suggestions when making decisions. By understanding and respecting the opinions of others, leaders can help the whole team achieve their goals and succeed.

The BEC reflection paper discusses the amazing servant leader, St Joseph - the spouse of Mary. His humility, obedience, perseverance, determination and most of all, his silent yet active participation in God’s salvation plan, are timeless models for our own leadership journey within the Church community. That is why he is known as the silent saint of God.

Some leaders talk a lot, but their voices are irrelevant. We are often more respected when we speak less, and everyone wants to listen. St Joseph did not even utter a word in the scripture, but he stayed calm and listened to the voice of the angels who appeared in his dreams for the next course of action. He was docile to God’s will to fulfil the needs of Mary and Jesus. He never forced his own will, nor did he hold on to his own dreams and plans. As leaders, there are situations when we need to speak and situations when we need to remain silent. This helps us to master the art of discernment - creating wise, strategic and respected leaders.

The servant leadership style teaches us to prioritise the well-being of others by showing concern and compassion. It is exemplified in the actions of Christ, who demonstrated servanthood throughout his public ministry, emphasising that “the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve” (Mt 20:28). In this leadership approach, our focus extends beyond ourselves as we wholeheartedly direct our attention to others with love - acknowledging the Lord’s presence in them. 

As we gather and reflect this month, let us all recommit ourselves to the path of servant leadership, fostering a community where everyone feels valued and empowered to contribute.

THE SPIRIT OF THE OLYMPIC FRATERNITY

The 2024 Olympic Games began in Paris on Friday, 26 July 2024 and will end on Sunday, 11 August 2024. The opening ceremony took place in the heart of Paris, marking the first time in history when an opening ceremony was held outside of a stadium. We are all in the Olympic spirit as we watch the incredible performances of the athletes. There are around 329 medal categories to look forward to, spanning across 32 sporting events. Let’s enjoy every moment of this incredible experience!

During the opening ceremony, there was an act that portrayed a scene resembling Leonardo da Vinci’s “The Last Supper” featuring drag queens and a nearly nude man painted in blue representing Dionysus - the Greek mythology Olympian god of wine, fruitfulness and vegetation. Many influential spiritual and political leaders, as well as Christians worldwide, expressed outrage at the controversial scene, finding it disgraceful, disrespectful and offensive. In response, the artistic director, Thomas Jolly, clarified that the scene was not intended to mock Christianity but was instead inspired by a pagan feast related to the gods of Olympus and Greek mythology.

Pope Francis, however, did not comment on the outrage over the controversy at the Olympic opening ceremony. Instead, during last Sunday’s Angelus, he emphasised that despite suffering from disasters and hunger, we continue to produce and sell weapons to fuel wars, which contradicts the spirit of the Olympics’ fraternity.

In this month of August, Pope Francis’ intention is to invite us to pray for global leaders – to be guided by solidarity, compassion, and inclusiveness for the common good. In line with the sacred mission of the Catholic Church, this includes caring for the poor and those who have lost their jobs. Let’s focus on the Holy Father’s intention rather than getting disheartened over sensitive issues.

We are thankful that Christians worldwide did not react violently after viewing the controversy surrounding the Olympics opening ceremony. It is important for us to uphold our Christian values and faith, even when faced with circumstances that may belittle us. While the opening ceremony may have been scandalous and frustrating, it is vital that we do not respond with aggression. I believe we should not let the performance provoke us into viewing everything in a negative light or labelling it as “satanic”. At the same time, we should not be silent or fearful in the face of those who express animosity toward our faith - “faith that must look forward for the salvation of our souls,” (cf. 1 Peter 1:9).

It is normal to feel disheartened and frustrated when our Christian values and beliefs are disrespected or when insensitivity is shown towards our religion. However, we should strive to honour and respect the religious sentiments of all faiths. Let’s remember to pray for the athletes and spectators so that comments and criticism do not dishearten them and instead contribute to the success of the Paris Olympics.