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)

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Photo Credited: vaticannews.va

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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.”

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