COUNTLESS MOMENTS OF GRACE

As we begin the month of July, the Holy Father invites the universal Church to pray for respect for human life. His intention is clear: “Let us pray for the protection and respect for human life at all stages, recognising it as a gift from God.”

In a world where life is often measured by usefulness, productivity, or convenience, we are challenged to see every human person through the eyes of God. From the unborn child to the elderly, from the healthy to the sick, from the successful to the forgotten—every life possesses unchanging dignity because it is created and loved by God. Respect for life is more than a moral principle; it is expressed in our words, our actions, our compassion, and our commitment to uphold the dignity of everyone we encounter.

This month is also a special time of grace for our Parish as we honour our patron, St. Thomas the Apostle. After nine prayerful days of the Novena, we now reach its joyful conclusion with the Feast of St. Thomas this weekend. We are deeply grateful to the priests who celebrated the Novena Masses and nourished us with God’s Words and Sacraments. Their presence and preaching have enriched our spiritual preparation for this great feast. Let us ask St. Thomas to strengthen our faith so that, like him, we may move from doubt to conviction and proclaim with confidence: “Jesus is my Lord and my God.” May our patron continue to intercede for every family in our Parish and lead us ever closer to Christ.

Meanwhile, the excitement of the FIFA World Cup continues to capture the attention of millions across the globe. As the tournament enters the knockout stages, football once again reminds us that rankings and reputations do not always determine the outcome. Several underdog nations have surprised the world with courage, discipline and determination to advance in this ongoing tournament, while some traditional football giants have already been eliminated. Every match begins with equal hope, teamwork, perseverance, and the will to finish well; every team must prove itself on the field.

The same is true of our Christian journey. We are given many opportunities to do good, to forgive, to serve, and to grow in holiness. Yet these opportunities bear fruit only when we respond with faith and action. God grants us countless moments of grace—let us embrace them fully. Rather than settling for a “decent” Christian life, let us strive to live each day with love, faithfulness, and service.

As we celebrate our Parish Feast this weekend, may St. Thomas continue to intercede for us, so that together we may grow as a community that respects every human life and becomes faithful disciples who finish the race with Christ.

WELCOMING THE FIRST-CLASS RELIC OF ST. FAUSTINA TO OUR PARISH

A relic is a sacred object associated with a saint and is treasured by the Church as a tangible connection to those who lived heroic lives of holiness. A first-class relic is a physical part of the saint’s body, such as a bone fragment. Relics remind us that the saints were real people who faithfully followed Christ and now intercede for us before God. Through them, we are encouraged to grow in faith, holiness, and devotion.

After several months of communication and arrangements with the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy, Krakow, Poland, we are grateful and blessed to announce that our Parish has obtained a first-class relic of St. Maria Faustina Kowalska (Reliquae ex Ossibus is a Latin phrase that translates to "relic or fragment from the bone). 

 

This precious gift comes at a time when devotion to the Divine Mercy Chaplet is steadily growing among our Parishioners, together with a deeper appreciation of the spirituality of St. Faustina. Therefore, the Parish of St. Thomas the Apostle, Kuantan, is honoured to receive this special relic as a spiritual treasure for our community.

 

As Catholics, our primary devotion after the Holy Eucharist is always our love for Christ through prayer, especially the Holy Rosary. Alongside this devotion, the Church also encourages other devotions that draw us closer to God. The Divine Mercy Chaplet, entrusted by Jesus to St. Faustina, is one such devotion that reminds us of God’s infinite mercy and compassion.

 

We received the first-class relic from Sr. Norberta at the Sanctuary of Divine Mercy in Kraków, Poland. Sr. Norberta, together with the Mother General, Miriam Janice, and the Congregation of the Sisters of Our Lady of Mercy, kindly assisted in making all the necessary arrangements. 

St. Maria Faustina Kowalska (1905–1938), a member of this congregation, was chosen by Jesus to proclaim His message of Divine Mercy to the world. Through her diary and witness of faith, millions have come to trust more deeply in the rich mercy of God.

To mark the arrival of the relic, we will have a special Divine Mercy Chaplet, Eucharistic Adoration, and the Eucharistic celebration. This celebration is our way of welcoming St. Faustina into our Parish family. Her presence among us through this relic will inspire us to grow in devotional prayer, practise works of mercy, and trust more completely in God’s unfailing grace.

We warmly invite all Parishioners to join us this Sunday (28 June) as we welcome the relic of St. Faustina and continue our Novena to St. Thomas the Apostle, our patron saint. May St. Faustina and St. Thomas intercede for us and lead us ever closer to Jesus Christ.

HYDRATION BREAK: FINDING REFRESHMENT IN CHRIST

The weather in Kuantan has been extremely hot and dry over the past few weeks. Day after day, many of us have endured scorching temperatures with very little rain. Whether at work, in school, at home, or attending church activities, the heat takes a toll on our bodies. Medical experts remind us constantly of the importance of staying hydrated, especially during periods of prolonged hot weather. Drinking sufficient water throughout the day helps our bodies function properly and prevents dehydration, fatigue, and heat-related illnesses.

Football fans around the world are enjoying the excitement of the FIFA World Cup. In earlier years, football matches were played continuously for 45 minutes in each half without interruption. However, with rising temperatures and greater awareness of players’ health and safety, FIFA introduced a mandatory three-minute hydration break during the tournament to allow players to replenish fluids and restore energy. It is a simple reminder that even world-class athletes need to pause, refresh themselves, and care for their physical well-being.

Perhaps there is a lesson for all of us here. If professional football players require hydration breaks during a match, how much more should we take care of ourselves in daily life? Let us remember to drink enough water, especially during this hot season. Let us also pay attention to the elderly, young children, and those who may be more vulnerable to the effects of the heat. Sometimes, caring for others begins with small acts of concern and attentiveness.

As we reach mid-year, take a “hydration break” for spiritual reflection. The coming months will present both challenges and opportunities. Before moving forward, pause to evaluate: How has our faith been all this while?

Just as our bodies require water, our souls require spiritual nourishment. Prayer, the Eucharist, Scripture, and the Sacraments are the living waters that sustain our spiritual lives. When we neglect these essential sources of grace, we can easily become spiritually exhausted, discouraged, or distracted by the demands of daily life. The middle of the year offers us an opportunity to renew our commitment to God and to refresh our relationship with Him.

In the coming weeks, we will begin Novena Masses for the Feast of St. Thomas, the Apostle. As we prepare for the 120th Parish Anniversary, let us give thanks for the generations of faithful parishioners who have built and sustained this community of faith. Their sacrifices, prayers, and dedication have become a lasting legacy for us today. May we continue to build on that foundation and pass on the gift of faith to future generations.

Keep in mind the importance of staying hydrated both physically and spiritually. Let us pray that the Lord renews our hearts, strengthens our faith, and leads us with hope, joy, and gratitude.

       

CELEBRATING 120 YEARS OF FAITH

This year, the Parish of Saint Thomas, the Apostle, Kuantan, celebrates a significant milestone – its 120th Anniversary. Over the past twelve decades, countless lives have been touched by the witness of faith, the proclamation of the Gospel, and the grace bestowed through the various sacraments within this Parish community.

The earliest baptism records date back to 25 March 1906, when the first three individuals – Joseph Liao Ah Gni, Andrew Teu Ah Mau, and Lazarus Voun Sui Tso – were baptised by Rev. Fr Vincent Gageau, MEP, in a simple house at Belat near Gambang, about 30 kms from Kuantan city. From these modest beginnings, the Catholic community gradually expanded, eventually establishing a chapel in Kuantan city during the 1930s and 1940s. Rev. Fr. Louis Guitatt, MEP, became the first Parish Priest and Priest-in-Residence and also served as the first Principal of Saint Thomas School. The Parish continued to flourish, and in 1966, under Rev. Fr Antoniette Herriot, MEP, the present church was constructed – a lasting testament to the faith and sacrifices of the early community.

As part of this historic celebration, all Parishioners and friends are warmly invited to participate in the Nine-Day Novena to St Thomas, the Apostle, from Friday, 26 June to Saturday, 4 July 2026, and the Thanksgiving Mass on 5 July 2026, all centred on this year’s inspiring theme: “Saint Thomas, the Greatest Gift of Our Time.”

Each day of the Novena Mass invites us to journey with Saint Thomas and enrich our own faith, which is the heart and soul of our celebration.

The story of Saint Thomas reflects our own journey. He doubted, faced challenges, encountered the Risen Lord, and ultimately made one of the greatest professions of faith among the Apostles: “My Lord and My God.” His experience reminds us that true faith grows through seeking understanding, trusting, and courageously witnessing to Christ in everyday life.

The celebrations will conclude on 5 July 2026, where we will also celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation for 20 candidates. Archbishop Julian Leow will be the main Presider of the Mass. The theme of the day encourages us to recognise Saint Thomas as a beacon of faith and truly “The Greatest Gift of Our Time” for the Church in the East Coast since 1906.

We wholeheartedly invite everyone – parishioners, former parishioners, alumni, families, and friends from across Malaysia to join us in this grace-filled celebration. Come together as one Church and one family during the Novena to thank God for 120 years of His abundant blessings. 

For the complete Novena and Mass schedules, please visit our Parish Website: www.stthomaskuantan.org

SPORT: SCHOOL OF FRATERNITY

As the world turns its attention to the FIFA World Cup, billions of people from every continent will come together to share in the excitement of football. For a few weeks, differences of language, culture, nationality, and social status would seem to fade as people unite in support of their teams.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will commence on 11 June and conclude on 19 July 2026, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It will be the largest World Cup in history, featuring 48 national teams and 104 matches across three countries.

Pope Leo XIV urged Catholics around the world to reflect on the values that sports can teach us. In his monthly prayer intention for June 2026, he invites everyone to pray that sports may be instruments of peace, encounter, and dialogue among cultures and nations worldwide. He acknowledged both the joys and challenges that come with sports, and he prayed that sporting events would promote the values of mutual respect, peace, solidarity, fraternity, and personal growth.

For Christians, these values reflect the Gospel itself. Pope Leo XIV said that sport can be a “path of peace, encounter, and dialogue” and a “school of fraternity.” On the field, players learn teamwork, discipline, perseverance, and respect for others. Success is never achieved alone. Every player contributes, and victory comes through cooperation. After a game, opponents frequently shake hands as a sign of respect.

These experiences remind us that, despite our differences, we share a common humanity, making the world a warmer place. These are values our society needs today. In a world often marked by division, conflict, and individualism, sport teaches us to work together, appreciate one another’s gifts, and celebrate victories together.

Among the many sports played around the world, football is the one I enjoy the most. I always look forward to the FIFA World Cup because it brings together nations, cultures, and people from every corner of the globe. The excitement, passion, and unity that the tournament creates make it truly special. The World Cup reminds me that sport has the power to unite people despite their differences.

As a football fan, I naturally have my favourite teams, and I hope Brazil, Argentina, Germany, France, Portugal, and the Republic of Korea will go far in the tournament and stand out among the top contenders. Each of these teams has a rich football tradition, talented players, and a history of inspiring millions of supporters.

Yet, regardless of who eventually lifts the trophy, the true beauty of the World Cup lies in the spirit of sportsmanship, respect, and unity that it brings to the world. In the end, football reminds us that we are all part of one human family, celebrating together the joy of the beautiful game.

Note: Images Obtained from the Internet

CLOSER TO CHRIST THROUGH THE ROSARY

As May, the Month of the Rosary, comes to an end, our hearts are filled with gratitude to God and to our Blessed Virgin Mary for the wonderful spiritual blessings we have received throughout this lovely month.

From the very beginning of the month until its conclusion, many Catholics faithfully gathered to pray the Rosary – individually, as families, and as prayer groups. It was truly a month filled with prayer, reflection, and devotion to Mother Mary. As a Parish community, we came together during Holy Hour on the First Friday, 1 May 2026, to pray the Rosary before the Blessed Sacrament, entrusting our lives, families, and intentions to the loving intercession of Mother Mary.

The closing celebration of the Month of the Rosary on Sunday, 31 May 2026, beautifully coincides with the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (In her visit to Elizabeth, bringing with her the presence, joy, and blessing of Jesus). In the same spirit, throughout this month, Our Lady continued to “visit” our homes and families through the Rosary prayers and gatherings held in different parts of our Parish.

We would especially like to thank our Parish Legion of Mary for their tireless dedication and love for Mother Mary. Throughout the month, they went faithfully from house to house, bringing the statue of Our Lady and praying the Rosary with families in different languages. More than 30 homes were visited, creating moments of prayer, unity, and grace within our Parish community. Their missionary spirit reminds us that Mary is always close to her children and continues to bring families together in prayer, strengthening our bonds and faith.

We also wish to thank our Kumpulan Umat Bahasa Malaysia (KUBM), particularly our Sabahan and Sarawakian families, for arranging Rosary gatherings among Bahasa-speaking families. Their enthusiastic involvement and strong faith greatly enhanced the spirit of this Marian month.

The Rosary is not merely a repetitive prayer. It is a meditation on the life, death and resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. In every mystery we pray, Mary teaches us to trust in Jesus, to persevere in faith, and to remain faithful even during life’s challenges. As a priest, I personally experience the loving presence and protection of Mother Mary in my own journey of life and ministry. She constantly accompanies me, prays for me, and leads me closer to Christ. Indeed, she continues to pray for our Church and for each one of us.

May we be inspired to continue this beautiful devotion of praying the Rosary together throughout the year, instead of just limiting this prayer gathering to the months of May and October. Let us continue to love and honour Mother Mary in our lives, knowing that through her intercession, we will receive abundant blessings and grace from her Son, Jesus.

OUR LADY OF THE ROSARY, PRAY FOR US!

A FRESH ENCOUNTER WITH THE HOLY SPIRIT

We have reached the end of the Easter season after seven weeks of reflection on the mysteries and encounters with the Risen Lord. This weekend, the Church prepares for Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit. Pentecost is not just the conclusion of Easter but also a continuation of our spiritual journey with the Risen Lord, guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit who filled the apostles, continues to strengthen and guide the Church today.

Before Pentecost, the disciples were afraid, uncertain, and hid behind locked doors. However, when the Holy Spirit descended upon them, they became courageous witnesses of the Gospel. Their fear turned into faith, their confusion into understanding, and their weakness into mission. Pentecost shows that opening our hearts to God enables the Holy Spirit to renew and transform us.

Today, we continue to struggle with fear, anger, division, temptation, hurt, and exhaustion. The pressures of daily life are real. Families face challenges, relationships become wounded, communities experience misunderstandings, and many hearts grow weary. Yet, the Holy Spirit comes, not to bring fear or division, but peace, healing, wisdom, unity, and hope. The Spirit helps us forgive, reconcile, and start anew.

As a parish community, we are encouraged to deepen our spiritual lives through prayer, participation in Mass, reading the Word of God, and seeking reconciliation with one another. Pentecost comes alive when we let the Spirit guide our families, ministries, workplaces, and daily choices. The Church becomes vibrant when her people are filled with the Spirit of Christ.

The Holy Spirit is not distant or abstract. The Spirit is present in our everyday lives. God has given us the seven gifts of the Holy Spirit – wisdom, knowledge, understanding, counsel, fortitude, piety, and fear of the Lord – yet we often forget to call upon them. These gifts are practical and meant for daily living.

In a hectic, self-centred world, we can easily overlook the beauty and blessings around us. These gifts teach us to look beyond ourselves and discover God’s love reflected in nature, relationships, and everyday moments.

This Pentecost, let us learn to turn to the Holy Spirit in every situation:

·      When we are afraid — ask for courage.

·      When confused — ask for wisdom.

·      When hurt — ask for healing.

·      When tired — ask for strength.

·      When divided — ask for peace and unity.

May this Pentecost lead our Parish into a fresh encounter with the Holy Spirit. Let us not remain behind locked doors of fear, anger, or disappointment; let us instead open our hearts to the fire of God’s love. Let the Holy Spirit help us grow in wonder, gratitude, and deeper awareness of God.

On this Pentecost, the Holy Spirit renews our faith, strengthens our hope, and sends us out to share the joy of Christ within our families, parish, and community.

COMMUNICATIONS MUST ALWAYS REMAIN DEEPLY HUMAN

In his message for the 60th World Communications Day, written on the Memorial of Saint Francis de Sales, patron saint of journalists and writers, Pope Leo XIV reflects deeply on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital communication on human life and relationships.

The Holy Father reminds us that every human being is unique, with faces and voices that reveal identity, dignity, and relationships. Each person is called to communicate truth, love, and compassion. Communication is therefore sacred, as it reflects God Himself, who speaks to humanity through His Word and through Jesus Christ.

Pope Leo XIV warns about artificial intelligence and digital technologies. He notes that, although these innovations are incredibly useful and powerful, they could gradually weaken our core human values. Algorithms often prompt immediate emotional reactions rather than allow time for thoughtful reflection, which can lead to division, anger, and polarisation in society.

The Pope also cautions against becoming overly dependent on AI systems. When people allow machines to think, create, and decide everything for them, they risk losing creativity, critical thinking, imagination, and authentic human relationships. AI can imitate human emotions and conversations, but it can never replace genuine friendship, love, empathy, or moral responsibility.

To guide the AI and digital world wisely, Pope Leo XIV proposes three key principles:

• Responsibility – technology developers, media professionals, and users must act ethically, truthfully, and transparently.
• Cooperation – governments, educators, families, religious communities, and technology companies must collaborate for the common good.
• Education – young people, in particular, need media and AI literacy to think critically, discern the truth, verify information, and use digital tools responsibly.

The Holy Father concludes that communications must always remain deeply human. Technology should serve humanity, not replace it. We need real faces and real voices that speak truth, hope, kindness, and love.

Today, we live in a digital world where messages travel instantly. Social media can be a powerful tool for spreading encouragement, knowledge, faith, and kindness. However, it can also spread anger, falsehoods, gossip, bullying, and fake news within seconds. Before posting or sharing anything on social media, pause and ask: “Is it true? Is it kind? Is it necessary?”

AI can greatly support students in their education. It can explain lessons, assist with research, improve language skills, and help organise ideas. However, students must not rely entirely on AI to think for them. Wisdom and knowledge come from effort, reading, discussion, prayer, reflection, and human interaction. AI should support, not replace, learning.

Young people must learn to use AI technology wisely, courageously, and responsibly. Verify information before sharing it. Respect the dignity and privacy of others. Never use social media to humiliate or hurt people.

At the end of the day, the most powerful message is not what we post online, but how we live our lives. Our words, posts, and conversations should bring light, truth, and hope instead of darkness, confusion, and division. Let us use this powerful tool to promote positivity and make a difference.

A MOTHER’S LOVE REMAINS FOREVER

As we celebrate Mother’s Day this weekend, let’s take a moment to cherish the fact that mothers are among God’s greatest gifts to the world. Just as the Holy Spirit is a divine gift that strengthens, comforts, and guides us, our mothers are also instruments of God’s love, filling our lives with warmth and maternal care.

Through their sacrifices, gentle care, patience, and constant prayers, they bring hope to every family. Many mothers silently carry heavy burdens – juggling work, family, financial worries, concerns for their children, and even their own pain. Yet they continue to give of themselves with courage and love. Truly, they are “super mums” in every sense.

Today, we take a moment to honour mothers who might sometimes feel exhausted, unappreciated, lonely, or weighed down by life’s challenges. We pray they realise that God sees every quiet sacrifice and holds every tear shed in love. The Holy Spirit, our Comforter and Strength, walks closely with them each day.

We truly appreciate all mothers for their endless love and dedication. Our hopes are that God blesses them with good health, peace of mind, renewed strength, and hearts full of joy. May Mother Mary, the caring Mother of the Church, always continue to guide and protect every mother.

For some of us, Mother’s Day is not only a joyful celebration but also an emotional day because our mothers are no longer with us. There is an empty chair at the table, a familiar voice we long to hear again, and memories that quietly return to our hearts. Yet, love never truly dies. A mother’s love lives on in the values she taught, the sacrifices she made, the prayers she whispered, and the countless acts of care that brought meaning to our lives. Even though we cannot see them, their love still accompanies us every day.

To all children who miss their departed beloved mothers today, we hold onto the comforting hope that their mothers are resting peacefully in God’s eternal home. Today, we thank God for the wonderful gift of our mothers and pray sincerely that the Lord grants them eternal peace and happiness.

As we celebrate Mother’s Day this beautiful month of May, let’s also remember that May is dedicated in particular to our Blessed Virgin Mary. She truly understands the heart of every mother and the pain of every child who longs for a mother’s love. Mary stood faithfully at the foot of the Cross and continues to stand beside us in our joys, struggles, and sorrows. 

Let’s entrust all mothers – both living and those who have passed – under the loving care of Mother Mary. May she continue to guide our families closer to her Son, Jesus, and wrap every grieving heart with her tender motherly comfort and peace.

WISHING YOU ALL OUR LOVE TODAY AND ALWAYS – HAPPY MOTHER’S DAY!

A MONTH WITH MARY, A JOURNEY OF THE ROSARY

The month of May holds a special place in the heart of the Catholic Church. It is traditionally dedicated to our Blessed Virgin Mary, a time when Catholics all over the world renew their love for the Rosary. This devotion is not simply a repetition of prayers, but a gentle and profound journey through the life of Christ, seen through the eyes of Mary.

The Rosary has taken deep root in Catholic hearts over the centuries. Its origins are often linked to Saint Dominic, who is believed to have received this prayer as a spiritual aid in times of trial. Over the years, the Church embraced it as a simple yet powerful way for people of all ages and backgrounds to reflect on the mysteries of faith. Each mystery draws us into moments of joy, sorrow, light, and glory, reminding us that our lives, too, are part of God’s divine plan.

The Rosary touches the human heart, beautifully guiding us to Christ through Marian spirituality. Its repetition offers peace, deepens Mary’s presence, and gently leads us to her Son. It is about Jesus, with Mary as our guide – she does not divert us from Him but shapes us to listen, trust, and accept God’s will.

In our Parish of St. Thomas, Kuantan, the Legion of Mary has taken up a beautiful mission this month, in which members will go from house to house, bringing the statue of Our Lady and gathering families to pray the Rosary together. In a very real sense, this is like Mary visiting our homes as she once visited Elizabeth – bringing not just her presence, but Christ’s grace into our families, strengthening our bonds, and renewing our faith.

We invite Parishioners to open your homes and hearts to this mission. Some families have already registered, and we encourage more to take part. You may also consider joining the Legion of Mary, whose spirituality is simple yet profound: prayer rooted in the Rosary, service to others – especially the sick, elderly, and lonely – and a strong faith in Mary’s guidance. This practice helps us become more attentive to one another, more compassionate, and more grounded in Christ.

As we pray the Rosary this month, we also pray for the Holy Father’s intention for May 2026: that everyone might have enough food. Millions are suffering from hunger, yet many of our goods go to waste on our tables. We pray for the grace to thank God for our daily bread and all our food, to eat simply, and to share with others generously. May we act responsibly to reduce food waste and ensure that all have access to what they need.

This May, let us rediscover the Rosary as a gift. Whether prayed individually or as a family, and united with the needs of the world, may it become for us a source of grace, responsibility, and deeper love for Christ.

THE BEAUTY OF VOCATIONS

Pope Leo XIV, in his message for the 63rd World Day of Prayer for Vocations, invites us to rediscover vocations as an inward journey of encountering God’s free gift, which blossoms in the depths of our hearts. Rooted in the image of Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd, vocations are seen as beautiful paths in which life becomes meaningful and radiant when lived in close relationship with the Lord.

The Holy Father highlights that God’s beauty is discovered through prayer, silence, and reflection. Like St Augustine, who found God in the depths of his heart, therefore, each person is called to nurture an interior life in which God’s voice can be heard. Vocation is not imposed but is a free and loving invitation, calling each person to respond with joy and openness.

The Holy Father highlights that every vocation begins with the awareness that God knows and loves us personally, and invites us into a relationship through the Word, Sacraments, and acts of charity. This awareness leads to trust, especially when God’s plans are mysterious or challenging. The example of Saint Joseph serves as a reminder of the importance of faithfulness and obedience to God’s will.

The Pope also emphasises that vocations are ongoing processes of growth, not merely a one-off event. Vocations mature through daily fidelity, guidance, community support, and openness to the Holy Spirit. Just as branches are connected to the vine, our lives must remain rooted in Christ.

Finally, he urges young people to pause, listen, and trust in God, confident that every vocation is a gift that brings happiness and bears fruit for the Church and the world, under the loving guidance of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

For me, the priesthood has always been a beautiful gift to the Church, and it carries deep meaning for everyone who responds to His calling. In the light of the Holy Father’s message, I realise that my vocation is not something I possess, but it is a grace I must continually rediscover in the depths of my heart.

There have been moments in my priestly journey when the path seemed uncertain, when plans did not go as I had expected. Yet, in those moments, I have come to understand that the Holy Spirit is gently guiding, shaping, and leading me according to God’s plan, a plan far greater than my own understanding.

Vocation is not about being perfect, but about trust in the Lord. Just as Jesus, the Good Shepherd who goes before us, gently guides me each day, inviting me to renew my promises. Through my personal prayer, the Eucharistic celebration, and the people entrusted to my care, I can see how this calling continues to grow and deepens over time.

Indeed, the priesthood is truly beautiful – because it is a journey with Christ, a daily act of surrender, and a peaceful joy in serving His people with love.