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).