COMMUNICATING HOPE IN A DIGITAL WORLD

This weekend (1 June 2025), the Church celebrates the 59th World Day of Social Communications, which carries the theme chosen by the late Pope Francis: “Share with gentleness the hope that is in your hearts” (1 Peter 3:15-16). This message, released on 24 January 2024, speaks about how modern communication, especially on social media, has become aggressive, divisive, and manipulative. The late Pope warned that this kind of communication creates conflict, division, spreads confusion, and digital distraction, which weakens our sense of community and care for one another.

Pope Francis called for a “disarming” of communication. For example, people often argue or insult others online without knowing them. Pope Francis invites us to change this by becoming gentle and respectful in how we speak, share, and engage in dialogue rooted in respect and truth. He challenged journalists and communicators to become “communicators of hope,” witnessing to Christ not just through words but through lives marked by gentleness and presence.

The late Pope highlighted three key points: first, Christian hope is found in the risen Christ; second, this hope must be shared through lived witness; and third, our communication must be marked by reverence, humility, and compassion. He envisioned a form of communication that builds bridges, spreads goodness, and heals wounds. We should emphasise stories of kindness and utilise our communication to support others, particularly those who are marginalised, during this Jubilee Year of Hope.

In continuity with this vision, the newly elected Pope Leo XIV spoke about the Church’s role in guiding us through the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Just as Pope Leo XIII responded with his famous letter, Rerum Novarum (on capital and Labour), Pope Leo XIV asserts that the Church must now address the new challenge posed by AI. The Church needs to clarify its stance on the impact of AI on people’s dignity, justice, and employment.

Pope Leo XIV affirmed that AI must serve the common good and human fraternity, echoing Pope Francis’ earlier call to avoid a “technological dictatorship.” Pope Leo reminds us not to allow technology to replace our relationships or values. AI can help write documents or translate languages, but it cannot show love, kindness, or truly understand our pain. We should use technology wisely and always remember what makes us human. 

Referring again to Rerum Novarum, Pope Leo XIV highlights two important things for AI: first, everyone has the right to meaningful work, and second, people’s ideas and creations should be respected. These ideas are crucial to ensure that AI does not exploit workers or devalue human creativity. For instance, if an artist creates a song, AI should not copy it without credit. If a worker loses their job to a machine, society must help protect their dignity and assist them in finding new opportunities.

The Church and society encourage us to use communication, whether through media or technology, to connect with others instead of creating division. As we face digital change, we are called to be sources of hope, using all tools, including media and AI, to support truth, peace, and the dignity of every person.

HOLY DOORS, HOLY MOMENTS OF HOPE

From 14 to 24 May 2025, I had an opportunity to lead 31 pilgrims on a ten-day spiritual journey through Italy, culminating in Rome during this Jubilee Year of Hope. With hearts open and spirits eager, we walked the long, sometimes tiring roads, but every step drew us nearer to the mystery of God’s strength, love, mercy, and above all, hope.

Our pilgrimage began in the culturally rich cities of Bologna and Florence and then led us into the sacred serenity of Assisi. There, the simplicity and humility of St. Francis stirred our hearts and souls. A particularly moving moment for me was praying before the incorruptible Blessed Carlo Acutis’ body. To think that this young, modern-day saint may soon be canonised - possibly by the end of June - is a sign of holiness being alive and relevant for every generation. I paused and prayed, seeking his intercession for our youth, Church, and world.

In Loreto, we encountered the tender presence of Mary in the Holy House, a place steeped in the quiet strength of her humility. Lanciano brought us face-to-face with the miraculous proof of Christ’s Real Presence in the Eucharist - an awe - inspiring sign of divine love. At San Giovanni Rotondo, we stood in prayer before the incorrupt body of St. Padre Pio, a visible witness to the depth of sanctity to which God calls each one of us. Then came Manopello, where the Holy Face of Jesus gently reminded us that even when we turn away, His gaze remains fixed upon us in love.

And then came Rome - the heart of the Church, and for me, the heart of our pilgrimage. We passed through the four Jubilee Holy Doors: St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls. Each door was more than an architectural threshold; it was a doorway of grace. As the late Pope Francis reminded us, this Jubilee is a sacred time to rediscover hope - not as an abstract idea, but as a living encounter with God’s faithful love. Walking through these doors, I felt that hope, take root more deeply in my heart and in my priestly ministry.

One deeply personal and emotional moment was standing in silence at the simple tomb of Pope Francis, a man whose humility and love for the Church have touched the world. A joyful highlight was seeing Pope Leo XIV in St. Peter’s Square, waving and blessing us from his mobile, such a close and unforgettable encounter.

Despite the exhaustion of long travels and tight schedules, we celebrated Mass daily, joined in prayer and fellowship, and shared our faith stories. We were not just tourists, instead, we were pilgrims walking together in faith and hope. 

Now, back in my Parish - designated as a Jubilee Pilgrim Center - I carry with me the blessings and graces of Rome. Let us continue our Jubilee Year journey, with the same joy, reverence, and trust that accompanied us. As I have come to know more deeply, Hope is not a concept. Hope is a Person - Jesus Christ - who walks with us today and always.

POPE LEO XIV: A SHEPHERD FOR OUR TIME

Our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, has already captured the hearts of many with his radiant smile and youthful energy, especially the 1.4 billion Catholics around the world. From the moment he appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, there was something special about him. It’s not just his age or friendliness, but the way he carries many hearts within his own: the heart of a shepherd, a missionary, a listener, a man of courage, and most of all, a man of the people.

Before the world saw him in Rome, he walked the dusty streets of Peru. As a missionary priest and later as Bishop of Chiclayo, he spent years among the poor and forgotten. He lived and worked closely with the people — eating with villagers, listening to the young and the elderly, comforting grieving families, and praying with those who had lost everything. He didn’t serve from above but walked side by side with those he was sent to love.

Many of us have had a glimpse of his life through articles, interviews, live videos, and people’s stories. What stands out most is his simplicity. He hardly talks about himself, but when he speaks of the Word of God and the Social Teaching of the Church, the world stops and listens. His faith is not just words — it’s real, alive, full of compassion, and sometimes even tears and smiles. That is what makes him so close to us.

Pope Leo XIV was elected on May 8, 2025, a date full of meaning. May is the month of Mary, a time when we bring flowers to her altars, pray the Rosary as families, and turn to her gentle love. Starting his papacy in this special month, feels like Mary has been walking with him from the very beginning — just like she walked with Jesus. May is also a time of new life and hope. So this new beginning for the Church, under Pope Leo XIV, feels like a springtime of faith. Like Mary, he said “yes” with a trusting and humble heart.

Let us all look forward to two important events coming up soon: His inauguration Mass on Sunday, 18 May 2025, at 10 am(Rome time), and His first public audience during the Angelus on Wednesday, 21 May 2025.

These are not just formal events — they are moments of grace, moments that allow us to feel connected as one Church, wherever we are. We are not just welcoming a pope — we are starting a new journey of faith. Let us pray for Pope Leo XIV every day. Let us ask Mary to keep him close to her heart.

In his own words: “The Church must always lean closer to the wounded, the forgotten, and the searching. We must be a people of mercy before we are a people of answers.”

Dear Jesus, thank you for Pope Leo XIV. Give him strength, wisdom, courage, and a loving heart. Help him to lead your Church with kindness and truth. Keep him close to Mary, your Mother, and protect him always. Amen.

POPE LEO XIV: A SHEPHERD OF PEACE AND MISSION

HABEMUS PAPAM! WE HAVE A POPE!

As the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica rang out on 7 May 2025, the world turned its gaze toward Vatican City. The long-anticipated Conclave had begun. After the solemn Mass, 133 Cardinals dressed in red, processed into the Sistine Chapel to elect the 267th Successor of St. Peter. All eyes were fixed on the chimney, waiting for the signal - white smoke - to declare to the world: Habemus Papam! We have a pope!

I was up until midnight on 8 May, waiting to hear the historic announcement of a new pope, but unfortunately, I fell asleep before it happened! When I woke up for my morning Mass, the announcement had already been made. I quickly checked the news before my Mass. I was very happy to share the news with the morning Mass congregation, using the prayers for the newly elected pope. I was moved by the few words he said from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Pope Leo XIV made his first public appearance, addressing the crowd with “peace be with all of you.” He focused on peace everywhere and said, “Evil will not prevail; we are in the hands of God. Without fear, united with God and one another, we go forward.” He encouraged everyone to move forward with a missionary spirit to build bridges and to welcome everyone with open arms.

In a historic first, Cardinal Robert Prevost from the United States is now Pope Leo XIV. His choice of name reminds us of Pope Leo XIII, who served from 1878 to 1903. Pope Leo XIII published an encyclical on “Rerum Novarum” (Capital and Labour), which laid the foundation for modern Catholic Social Teaching. This encyclical championed the dignity of work, the rights of workers and justice for the marginalised. Leo XIII focused the Church’s concern on the suffering of many people, rather than just the privileged few. Many popes have continued to walk this path.

Pope Leo XIV - Robert Francis Prevost - from the Augustinian Order, spent nearly four decades ministering in one of the poorest regions of Peru, where many people are unemployed, and the infrastructure is inadequate. Both former Pope Francis and the new pope care deeply about helping ordinary people, especially the poor. The new pope is known for his humility and understanding of the needs of less fortunate people.

We celebrate the election of our new shepherd. Let us pray to Mother Mary, a model of humility and faith. Just as she responded to God’s call, may we respond to this moment with joy and open hearts. The Mother Church welcomes her new Holy Father and continues to guide us with care and truth. As her children, we move forward together under the protection of Mary, inspired by the legacy of the saints, and renewed in our mission to be a Church for the poor, by the poor, and with the poor.

Holy Mary, Mother of the Church,

pray for Pope Leo XIV and for all of us, your children.

Habemus Papam. Deo gratias!

GRATEFUL FOR THE GIFT OF THE PAPACY

Since 26 April 2025, our community at the Church of St. Thomas in Kuantan has gathered for the Novendiales- the nine days of mourning following Pope Francis’s death. We have been holding daily Memorial Masses, and praying for his soul. We will conclude this period of mourning on Sunday evening, 4 May 2025 - gathering at the grotto for the Rosary, led by our Parish Youth, to express our love and gratitude for Pope Francis's life and mission.

These days, I have been reflecting on Pope Francis’ encyclicals and key teachings in my homilies. His deep love for the Church, concern for our planet, compassion for the poor, and heartfelt devotion to Christ have truly inspired our faith journey. His legacy lives on in our everyday decisions to stay connected to the Church. While we feel sorrow over his passing, we are grateful for the gifts of his papacy.

 

Many of you have come faithfully, offering your time and hearts in the Church's prayers, the Rosary, Holy Hour, litanies, novenas and other forms of prayer. Your presence has been a testament to our unity as a parish family, and to the strength of our faith during times of loss and transition. Your faithfulness inspires me. A huge thank you to each of you who joined us for these nine days of prayer. However, our prayers don’t stop here – there is always more to come!

 

The College of Cardinals has requested the entire Church to pray for them, as they prepare for their sacred responsibility. We have been keeping the Cardinals in our thoughts and prayers as they get ready to gather in conclave, to elect the next successor of St. Peter. All 135 Cardinal electors – representing diverse nations and cultures across the globe – will enter the Conclave on 7 May 2025 at the Sistine Chapel, to choose the 267th Pontiff. Unfortunately, two Cardinals can’t make it this time due to health reasons - so there will be 133 voters participating. Let’s keep them all in our prayers.

The Church is currently in a period of transition: a mourning period following the passing of Pope Francis, and the dawn of a new pope. As we feel like sheep without a shepherd, let’s remember during this Easter season that Christ, our Risen Lord, is always with us. As we eagerly await the moment when our new Pope steps out onto the balcony of St. Peter’s to greet us all, let’s keep our spirits high and pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the Cardinals in choosing a leader after the Heart of Christ.