LOVE CAN OPEN THE DOOR TO CHANGE

This month of August, our Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, together with the Dioceses of Penang and Johor-Melaka, especially commemorate and pray for “Prospects” – prisoners and all involved in Prison Ministry. Over the last 40 years, this ministry has actively supported prospects, their families, former prospects, and individuals who are seeking a fresh start after incarceration. It is a ministry of compassion, hope, and accompaniment.

At its heart, Prison Ministry mainly focuses on sharing Christ with those who might feel forgotten, listening to individuals who need someone to hear their stories, providing hope to the discouraged, accompanying those facing struggles, and above all, loving them as brothers and sisters whom God has not abandoned.

Prison Ministry is not about expecting the prospects to change immediately. Change requires time. Sometimes, a volunteer may spend many years walking with individuals without seeing much progress in their prospects. A prospect may struggle with addiction, return to prison, or make the same mistakes again. This can be painful and discouraging. We may ask: “Why hasn’t he changed? Why has he returned to prison? Have all our efforts been wasted?”

Nevertheless, our ministry stresses that only God can change hearts. Our task is to remain present, faithful, and compassionate. A visit, a conversation, a prayer, or even just saying, “I have not forgotten you,” can sow a small seed of hope in their hearts. Though we may not see God’s work right away, He is quietly active in every heart. God’s mercy provides people with the opportunity to change, learn from errors, and start anew. Therefore, Prison Ministry focuses on consistent presence and enduring love rather than immediate outcomes.

This year’s theme, “Transforming Lives Through Love,” highlights how love can open the door to change. When individuals receive forgiveness, respect, acceptance, and sincere concern, they can start to believe again: “I am not forgotten. My life still has meaning. I can begin anew.” This is the hope that Prison Ministry seeks to bring.

Every August 14, we commemorate the feast of St Maximilian Kolbe (Patron Saint for Prisoners), who sacrificed his life for another prisoner at Auschwitz during World War II. When a prisoner was sentenced to death, Fr Maximilian Kolbe volunteered to take his place. He died in a starvation cell, giving his life in love. I have personally visited his cell in Auschwitz, Poland, three times, each time finding it profoundly moving. In a place marked by suffering and death, the witness of St Maximilian reminds us that love can conquer hatred, and hope can shine even in the darkest moments.

Prison Ministry invites all of us to look beyond the prison walls. This weekend, let us pray for prisoners, their families, those who have been released, prison chaplains, volunteers, and all who support this ministry. Let us also welcome those who are rebuilding their lives after coming out of prison and help them to find dignity, acceptance, and a new beginning.

LIVING THE HEART OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD

Every year on 4 August, the Church celebrates the memorial of St. Jean-Marie Vianney. His life reminds every priest that the heart of the priesthood lies not in success or recognition, but in faithful service to God and His people. Through his deep love for the Eucharist, countless hours hearing confessions, and his compassion for those entrusted to him, he has become a model of a true shepherd after the heart of Christ.

The life of a priest today is both joyful and challenging. Priests are called to celebrate the sacraments, preach the Gospel, accompany families, visit the sick, and bring hope to those in need. In our Malaysian Church, with its rich diversity of cultures and languages, this mission often requires sacrifice, perseverance and a generous heart. Every priest is called to remain faithful, trusting that God works through our weaknesses.

St. Jean-Marie Vianney has been one of my favourite saints since my seminary days in 1995. His life has always inspired me to be a humble priest, close to the people, available to those in need, and faithful in prayer. Whenever the demands of ministry become heavy, I often look to his example and draw strength from his quiet perseverance. He reminds me that a priest does not have to do extraordinary things but simply needs to love God wholeheartedly and serve His people faithfully.

Fr. Philip Asirwalam and I travelled from Kuantan to the Church of St. Jean-Marie Vianney, Tampin, to celebrate the feast with Parish Priest Fr. Albert Arockiasamy and 30 other priests. Nearly 500 of the faithful gathered together for the Holy Hour, Vespers, the Rosary and the Eucharistic Celebration. It was a beautiful witness of priestly fraternity and a moment to renew our commitment to serve with greater pastoral zeal.

Our Parish warmly welcomes Rev Fr Philip Asirwalam, Assistant Priest of St. Thomas the Apostle, Kuantan. He previously served at the Church of Divine Mercy in Shah Alam during his diaconate and the first two months of his priesthood. His appointment is a great blessing, especially as our Parish once again receives an assistant priest after almost 23 years.

His presence will enhance our pastoral ministry, especially as we serve communities far beyond Kuantan city. Our mission reaches chapels and Mass centres, including Orang Asli villages, Indonesian migrant workers in sawmills and oil palm plantations, and families from Sabah and Sarawak serving in the Armed Forces and the Police. Now, we will be able to reach more people with the Gospel and the Eucharist, especially those on the outskirts of our Parish.

As we thank God for the gift of our priests, let us continue to pray for them, walk with them, and support them in their mission. The work of evangelisation belongs to all of us. Together, let us bring His love to every family, every village, every workplace and every heart, so all may know the joy and hope in Jesus Christ.

OUR MISSION TO EVANGELISE

Pope Leo XIV’s Prayer Intention for August 2026: “Let us pray that in large cities often marked by anonymity and loneliness we find new ways to proclaim the Gospel, discovering creative paths to build community.”

Our East Coast cities – Kuantan, Kuala Terengganu and Kota Bharu – continue to grow and develop rapidly. The expansion of new housing areas, businesses, roads and tourist attractions has created many opportunities. Life has become faster and busier, with families balancing work life, school and many other commitments, while technology keeps us constantly connected. Yet, despite all this progress, many people quietly experience loneliness. Neighbours often live side by side without really knowing one another, and meaningful relationships are increasingly replaced by digital interactions.

Pope Leo XIV reminds us that this quiet loneliness is not only a social challenge but also a spiritual one. Many hearts long to be seen, welcomed and loved. As followers of Christ, we are called to respond with the warmth, compassion and hope of the Gospel.

The Church has always grown because Christians lived as one family. They welcomed strangers, cared for those in need, prayed together and shared their lives with one another. Their love became a living witness to Christ. That same mission continues today. Evangelisation is not only about preaching from the pulpit or hosting large events. It begins in our daily encounters – with a smile, a listening ear, a visit to someone who is alone, an invitation to the Eucharistic celebration, or a simple act of kindness. Often, the Gospel is first experienced through genuine friendship before it is proclaimed in words.

We see this mission bearing fruit in our own Parish. This year, 16 adults – 4 in the English-speaking group, 2 in the Mandarin-speaking group, and 10 in the Bahasa Malaysia-speaking group – have begun their journey in the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). Each of them has responded to God’s invitation to know Jesus more deeply. Their presence reminds us that someone prayed for them, someone welcomed them, and someone encouraged them to take that first step of faith. 

Soon, they will become members of our Parish family, and all of us share the responsibility of accompanying them with our prayers, friendship and encouragement. Let us help them discover that the Church is truly a place where they belong.

Here in the East Coast, where we live respectfully alongside people of many faiths, sharing the Gospel often calls for patience, wisdom and sensitivity. We proclaim Christ not only through our words but also through lives marked by integrity, kindness, hospitality and joyful faith. Every act of love, every gesture of compassion and every faithful Christian life quietly proclaims the Gospel.

As we begin the month of August, let us make the Holy Father’s intention our own. May our homes become welcoming places, our Parish a true community of faith and love, and each of us a joyful missionary disciple, bringing the hope and peace of Christ to everyone we meet.

HONOURING OUR GRANDPARENTS AND THE ELDERLY

This year, the Sixth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly (WDGE) will be observed on 26 July 2026 (Feast of Saints Joachim and Anne), calling us to honour seniors and acknowledge their vital role in our families, parishes, and society. In his first message for this annual celebration, Pope Leo XIV emphasises that every elderly person is precious in God's sight and should never feel forgotten or abandoned. The Holy Father invites us to become a Church that listens, accompanies, and cares for our elderly with love, respect, and compassion.

The theme, “I will never forget you” (Isaiah 49:15), comes from God's comforting words to His people in times of abandonment and despair. Through the prophet Isaiah, God assures us that His love surpasses even a mother’s love for her child. While a mother may forget, God never will. He has engraved His people on the palms of His hands – a powerful image of enduring love and unfailing faithfulness. This promise provides hope to those who feel lonely, neglected, or invisible, especially the elderly. It reminds us that every human life possesses lasting dignity because each person is deeply loved and forever remembered by God.

Pope Leo XIV recognises that many elderly people today experience loneliness, neglect, and isolation. Some live alone, while others are forgotten even in care homes, where they may be treated as numbers rather than persons with unique stories and gifts. In a society that often values productivity, speed, and efficiency, older people can mistakenly be seen as a burden instead of a blessing. The Holy Father therefore encourages families, especially the younger generation, to revive the beautiful tradition of visiting grandparents and elderly neighbours, bringing them companionship, affection, and hope through the simple gift of presence.

The Pope emphasises to older adults that old age is a meaningful and fruitful stage of life. Despite physical frailty, they remain beloved children of God. Through prayer, wisdom, and their lifelong faith, they continue to enrich the Church. In a world filled with conflict, fear, and division, the elderly have a special vocation to be witnesses of hope, reconciliation, and enduring faith for the younger generations.

(Abstract of the Message of Pope Leo XIV for the Sixth World Day for the Grandparents and the Elderly 2026)

As a Church, we must turn God’s promise into concrete acts of love. Let us reach out intentionally to our elderly through regular home visits, Holy Communion to the homebound, praying and reflecting on Scripture with them, arranging opportunities for Confession and the Anointing of the Sick, listening attentively to their stories, and welcoming them to participate actively in parish life whenever possible. Such simple yet meaningful gestures assure them that they remain valued members of God's family.

When we honour and care for our grandparents and the elderly, we become living witnesses of God’s promise: “I will never forget you.” May our Parish always be a community where every person, regardless of age or ability, is welcomed, cherished, and remembered with love.

WE WILL NEVER FORGET YOU

On Sunday, 26 July 2026, the universal Church observes the 6^th World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, which falls on the Feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus. This meaningful celebration, established to overcome loneliness among the elderly and to recognise their priceless role in families and in the life of the Church, carries the comforting theme: “I will never forget you” (Isaiah 49: 15).

As a Parish family, we also remember with gratitude the many grandparents and elderly who have sown the seeds of faith in our lives. They taught us our first prayers, brought us to church, encouraged us during difficult times, and witnessed to God’s faithfulness through their own lives. Today, the Church of St Thomas the Apostle, Kuantan, continues to grow because of the sacrifices, prayers and quiet dedication of those who led the way. Their legacy lives on in every family and every ministry.

Sadly, the fast pace of modern life often leaves our elderly feeling isolated. Busy schedules, changing lifestyles and technology sometimes create distance between generations. Pope Leo XIV reminds us that older persons should never be forgotten or pushed aside. They are not a burden but instead, a blessing. Their wisdom, experience and steadfast faith are valuable gifts that enrich both our families and our Parish.

Our Parish Family Life Ministry, led by Sheila Fernandez, Anna Thong, and Mary Tan, warmly invites all Parishioners, especially our grandparents and the elderly, to join the celebration on Sunday, 26 July 2026, from 4.00 pm to 7.00 pm in the St Giles Room. The event will feature fellowship, a family-friendly movie, and activities to strengthen the connections among grandparents, the elderly, children, and grandchildren. Additionally, during the weekend Masses, we will hold special prayers and distribute prayer cards as tokens of our love and gratitude. 

As the FIFA World Cup approaches its exciting conclusion, the final will be played between Spain and Argentina. Many football fans – myself included – have enjoyed weeks of thrilling matches. I followed the tournament almost every night, and I know that when the final whistle blows, many of us will surely miss this wonderful celebration of the beautiful game.

While we remember great goals, incredible saves, and champions, it is important to also honour the true heroes in our lives – our grandparents and the elderly. Like a football team, families are built on sacrifice, discipline, love, prayer, wisdom, and guidance. Their greatest victory is in the generations they nurture and inspire in faith; just as this year’s World Day theme states, “I will never forget you.”

On this upcoming World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, take a moment to visit, call, or spend time with our grandparents and the elderly. A listening ear, a warm hug, or just sharing a meal together can serve as a meaningful reminder that they are loved, valued, and always remembered.

VICTORY THAT TRULY LASTS

As the FIFA World Cup reaches its thrilling semi-final stage, millions around the world are eagerly watching their favourite teams, inspired by their discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and determination. Watching this excitement unfold, I cannot help but reflect on our own Parish community.

For nine grace-filled days, we gathered as one family to celebrate our Novena and Thanksgiving in honour of St. Thomas the Apostle. No medals or trophies were won, yet something far more precious was achieved: hearts were renewed, faith was strengthened, our young people received the gifts of the Holy Spirit through Confirmation, and our Parish family grew stronger in communion. That is the kind of victory that truly lasts.

With gratitude, we thank God for the successful Novena and Thanksgiving celebrations for St. Thomas the Apostle and our 120th Parish Anniversary. The nine days were deeply moving, with many Parishioners attending every Novena Mass. The final events - including the Eucharistic Procession, Thanksgiving Mass, and Confirmation – saw outstanding participation from Parishioners, families, and friends. This was a beautiful witness to our Parish’s vitality and unity in faith.

I was especially delighted to witness 30 of our young parishioners receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. May the Holy Spirit continue to strengthen them with His gifts so that they may become courageous disciples and joyful witnesses of Christ in today’s world. Please keep them in your prayers as they begin this new chapter in their faith journey.

I extend my sincere appreciation to our Parish Pastoral Councils, Finance Committee, Catechetical ministry, Basic Ecclesial Communities (BEC), liturgical ministries, choir members, altar servers, readers, commentators, extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion, Women’s Ministry, flower decorators, hospitality teams, traffic wardens, volunteers, benefactors, and every ministry that worked tirelessly before, during, and after the celebrations. Much of your service was carried out quietly behind the scenes, but God sees every sacrifice made with love. Thank you for your generous commitment, teamwork, and dedication, which ensured every celebration was prayerful, meaningful, and well organised.

To every Parishioner who attended, prayed, sang, served, and journeyed with us throughout these nine days - thank you. Your presence turned our celebrations into a beautiful witness of a vibrant Parish family. Together we demonstrated that the Church is not merely a building, but a community of believers walking together in faith.

As we give thanks for the blessings of the past 120 years, let us move forward together with renewed hope, trusting that the Lord who has faithfully guided our Parish will continue to lead us for generations to come. May we continue to build a Parish that prays together, serves with humility, welcomes with love, and witnesses to Christ with courage.

May St. Thomas continue to intercede for each of us, leading us from doubt to faith, from faith to hope, and from hope to lives of joyful missionary discipleship.

St. Thomas the Apostle, pray for us!

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!