OPEN OUR HEARTS TO CHRIST’S GENTLE INVITATION

Seventeen Clergy members from the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, together with forty dedicated volunteers from the Archdiocesan Catholic Prison Ministry, set aside five days from their hectic schedules to visit seven prisons in the states of Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang and Terengganu. During their visits, they celebrated the Sacraments of Confession and Eucharist, and shared the Word of God with imprisoned Catholic and Christian friends. 

It was a profoundly moving experience that beautifully reminded us of Christ’s invitation to “visit those in prison” (Matthew 25:36). For many of these men and women, life behind bars can be isolating and despairing. However, during our visit, we brought a spark of hope into their lives. We sang, prayed and attentively listened - joyfully celebrating God’s presence among us. After this wonderful shared experience and the joyous celebration of the Sacraments, we gathered for a meal - fostering a strong sense of community.

The generosity of the prison authorities in welcoming us and creating a warm environment was indeed a blessing. Their kindness enabled us to support the prisoners spiritually and through fellowship with all those who attended our sessions. This lovely gesture of hospitality reflected the love and abundance that Christ extended to all His people. In serving those incarcerated, we witnessed firsthand how the light of Christ can shine even in the darkest places, transforming lives and bringing hope. Jesus entered into the margins of society, bringing light to those in darkness.

Ministering with prisoners is an essential outreach effort to foster spiritual growth and provide heartfelt emotional support. Their stories can inspire us to extend our hands to those who feel isolated in our communities - whether in prisons, hospitals, or even in our neighbourhoods. This week, our Parish Flood Relief Team achieved something heartwarming by reaching out to 100 families affected by the first monsoon rains in Muadzam Shah, Pahang. With generous support from NGO partners - Yayasan Hasanah and HARAP, we provided much needed food items such as rice, canned foods, cooking oil and dried foods.

As the monsoon season continues, our team remains vigilant and ready to align with the humanitarian relief of being Christ’s hands and feet in the world. We urge Parishioners to continue supporting these efforts through your prayers, contributions, and volunteering your time. Together, we can bring light to those in darkness.

As we enter the third week of Advent and prepare to celebrate the birth of Christ, we pause to reflect on the gift of Emmanuel - God with us. This Advent, let us open our hearts to Christ’s gentle invitation. Every act of kindness toward the least among us is a way of serving Him. We pray that these men and women continue to feel God’s mercy and find strength in their faith. Let’s make space for His love to be reborn in our hearts and world.

DISPEL THE DARKNESS AND RESPOND TO HIS INVITATION

The monsoon weather along the East Coast of Peninsular Malaysia has improved, with rainfall decreasing these past few days. As a result, floodwaters in many affected areas have started to subside. However, moderate rainfall is still expected in the coming days, particularly in flood-prone areas. It is crucial to stay updated with local weather reports and take necessary precautions, especially in areas vulnerable to flooding. We encourage everyone to remain vigilant, as keeping safe is our top priority during this rainy season.

With Christmas drawing near, I once again had the privilege of visiting prisons in Marang and Kuala Dungun, Terengganu as well as the Penor Prison in Kuantan earlier this week. Together with three dedicated volunteers from the Prison Ministry - Stanislaus Emmanuel, Peter Chia and Robert Muthu, our visit to the prisons held special significance – bringing hope, joy, and God’s abiding presence to incarcerated people. We joyfully shared the profound message of Christmas: Emmanuel - God is with us - reminding our Christian prisoners that no matter the circumstances, God’s love reaches all, and His grace is ever-present.

As part of our outreach efforts, we humbly requested the Prison Authorities to provide a festive meal and some essential items - like soap, toothbrushes, and toothpaste - for our Christian prisoners. This small gesture is all about reminding them of their dignity and the hope that comes with this season. Let’s keep them in our thoughts and prayers, wishing them peace, strength and a renewed sense of purpose during this special time of love and forgiveness.

Advent begins in the darkness of the world’s brokenness, reminding us of our need for the light of Christ.This week, we will light the second candle on our Advent wreaths, expecting the light of Christ to dispel the darkness in our lives. Advent teaches us to prepare and anticipate during this time of waiting, aligning our hearts and minds with God’s will and responding to His invitation to encounter Him deeply.

Advent is more than a “countdown to Christmas!” It is a beautiful spiritual journey that draws us closer to Christ - His birth in Bethlehem and His glorious return. This season offers opportunities for spiritual renewal and inspires us to live our faith, fully, as we contemplate God’s promises and His faithfulness. His Holiness Pope Francis emphasises the significance of “Spiritual Vigilance” amidst global anxieties and conflicts. He encourages us to “raise our heads” and awaken spiritually, placing our trust in God’s salvation plan even during challenging times.

Let’s make this season a truly joyful time for everyone, by sharing the warmth of Christmas cheer with those who may feel forgotten. May this Advent bring renewal and transformation for you and your loved ones, guiding you towards a delightful Christmas celebration and a life that reflects the essence of love.