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)

Photo Credited: ncregis.org

Photo Credited: vaticannews.va

Photo Credited: apnews.com

Photo Credited: zenit.org

Photo Credited: aleteia.org

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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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).

IN HARMONY AND PATRIOTISM

Congratulations Malaysia, on your upcoming 67th year of Independence!

We will celebrate National Day in a weeks’ time! We commemorate our 67th Merdeka Day on 31 August 2024 with the theme “Malaysia MADANI: Jiwa Merdeka” (Malaysia MADANI: Independent Soul). The same theme will be carried over to Malaysia Day, which will be celebrated on 16 September 2024. The Cabinet has agreed to retain last year’s National Day logo, and celebrations will be held in Putrajaya for the sixth time, and the second time under the MADANI government. This year, Malaysia Day will be celebrated in Sabah. 

Jiwa Merdeka symbolises “the people’s freedom from any negative influences in interpreting the patriotic spirit through aspects of thought, social integration, and the economy.” It aims to foster strong, harmonious and progressive public unity. Despite the numerous challenges, we have been fortunate to witness the magnificent public celebrations, exhibitions and parades, which remind all Malaysians of their dedication and contributions to the nation’s growth over the past 66 years. Malaysia MADANI aims to cultivate patriotism among Malaysians, which is crucial for the country’s prosperity and progress.

All Malaysians are encouraged to adorn their homes and offices with the Jalur Gemilang and take pride in doing so. It is a great way to show our love for our country. National Day aims to unite all Malaysians in harmony and patriotism, regardless of our background. Let’s celebrate as One Malaysia (Satu Malaysia) regardless of race or religion.

Most Malaysians celebrate National Day or any public holiday by taking a break from their usual routine. Some truly understand and appreciate the day. For others, it is another holiday to relax with family and friends. At midnight on 31 August, many wait for the countdown to kick off the celebrations with dazzling fireworks illuminating the skies. In the morning of the same day, parades are usually held at designated locations where people gather to witness them.

As Malaysians, it brings us much joy to call Malaysia our home. We understand that not everything is going smoothly in our nation, and we acknowledge the issues our nation has to grapple with. We are only ashamed of the politicians who have brought our country to its knees. We are chagrined by the racial politics, racial polarisation and religious extremism still present in our country, and we hope to work together to overcome this and to make Malaysia even better. Our hope for a better Malaysia is what keeps us going.

Our collective efforts, perseverance and hard work will be pivotal in driving our country forward. “For lack of guidance a nation falls, but victory is won through many advisers.” (Proverbs 11: 14).

NURTURING KINDNESS, CHARITY AND GRACE

The First Prison Ministry Mass was celebrated at the Church of the Holy Family in Kajang, on Saturday, 17 April 2024 at 11am. This Mass was especially for all Prison Ministry volunteers in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. The Archdiocesan Catholic Prison Ministry (ACPM) was excited to get together and celebrate their First Eucharistic celebration on a truly meaningful Prison Ministry Day. It marks a new chapter in their mission.

In June 2024, the ACPM wrote a letter to Archbishop Julian Leow requesting that 14 August be designated as Prison Ministry Day in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. With His Grace’s kind approval, we were able to proceed accordingly. On Wednesday, 14 August 2024 the Universal Church commemorated the memorial of St. Maximilian Kolbe, and in conjunction with this, the ACPM kindly requested that all priests in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur offer particular intentions for the prisoners, their families and all the dedicated volunteers during the Eucharistic celebrations, hoping to uplift their spirits and support their meaningful work.

The ACPM, founded in 1985 by Sister Catherine O’Sullivan IJ, began with a heartfelt mission to help incarcerated individuals regain their self-respect and dignity. This ministry supports them in becoming valuable members of society after their release. It also hopes that through their efforts, these individuals would be able to live fulfilling lives, and be warmly welcomed into society once again.

Each time when priests and volunteers visit correctional centres, they learn to understand the challenging experiences of the incarcerated people. We desire to treat each one of them with love, compassion and respect. Through faith-sharing, they are guided closer to God and made aware of his divine presence and love. Their troubled hearts are comforted by fostering trust in God.

Through the kindness of the Mother Superior of the Infant Jesus of Malaysia, Theresa Chua, I am in contact with Sr Catherine O’Sullivan IJ via email. Two weeks ago, she sent an email introducing her wonderful self, and she also shared her personal experience teaching in Seremban IJ Convent in the 1970s. After much discernment, she felt inspired to venture into the prison ministry in 1980, until she returned to Ireland in 1986.

She shared her heartfelt experiences with a Methodist Church minister - travelling to prisons, visiting our brothers and sisters and guiding them towards a brighter future. Over six years, they visited eleven prisons throughout Peninsular Malaysia, carrying the spirit of the Gospel’s message, “I was in Prison, and you visited me” (Matt 25:35f), offering comfort and healing both inside the prison walls and beyond. Their mission resonated with the words of the Prophet Isaiah: “I, the Lord, have called you and shaped you to bring out prisoners from confinement and those who live in darkness from the dungeons” (42:7), to liberate captives from prisons.

One of her earnest wishes is for all individuals involved in this Prison Ministry to persistently strive and support those who feel most neglected in our society. Let’s nurture kindness, charity and grace, so they can find meaning in life through our dedicated involvement in the prison ministry.