SEEDS OF PEACE AND HOPE

This year, the Season of Creation runs from 1 September to 4 October 2025 with the theme “Seeds of Peace and Hope.” The season takes on special significance as we celebrate the Jubilee Year of Hope, gently reminding us that, like seeds buried in soil to grow into new life, we are also called in Christ to be seeds that help renew the earth and bring peace to the world.

Jesus describes Himself as the grain of wheat that must die to produce new life (Jn 12:24). From small, hidden beginnings, new life blooms. Flowers even sprout in the cracks of concrete roads, showing us that God’s creation has a remarkable way of surprising us with beauty and hope. The prophet Isaiah assures us that when God’s Spirit is poured out, barren deserts will transform into fruitful gardens, and justice will bring lasting peace and security (Is 32: 15–18).

Today, our common home suffers deeply. Pope Leo XIV warns of deforestation, pollution, climate change, and the loss of biodiversity, often driven by greed and injustice. The poor and the vulnerable, especially indigenous communities, are the ones who suffer most from these wounds. Too often, creation itself is treated as a simple commodity, fought over and exploited, instead of a gift entrusted to our care.

The Holy Father, in his message for the 10^th World Day of Prayer for the care of creation 2025, reminds us that caring for creation is not an optional part of Christian life but a core expression of our faith. God commanded humanity to “till and keep” the earth (Gen 2:15), which means to cultivate, protect, and preserve it. It involves justice, protecting the environment, and honouring the Creator. Harming creation affects the poor and dishonours God. Caring for it fosters peace and hope for future generations.

As a parish, let’s continue praying, reflecting, and taking action together during this beautiful Season of Creation. We include prayers for caring for the planet and for those most affected by environmental crises in our daily prayers. We can also offer the Rosary or pray during Mass with this intention. Let’s come together with open hearts and hope to make a positive difference.

During our recent Catechetical meeting, we agreed to continue with Our Parish’s ecological initiatives, including recycling, waste reduction, energy conservation, tree planting, and maintaining the grounds. We aim to deepen the understanding of our catechism students of caring for creation by encouraging them to take small actions at home, in Sunday classes, or within the Church, such as reducing their use of single-use plastic, conserving water, and turning-off light switches and air conditioners when leaving the room.

Let us sow seeds through prayer, education, and action that will grow into peace for our world and hope for our children. May the Spirit of God help us to till and keep the garden of the world, so that creation may truly reflect the glory of Christ.

LOVE AND RESPECT FOR ALL CREATION

Let’s take a moment to reflect on two significant calls: caring for creation, and our nation’s 68th Merdeka Day celebration!

The Holy Father’s prayer intention for September 2025 is deeply Franciscan: “Let us pray that, inspired by Saint Francis, we might experience our inter-dependence with all creatures who are loved by God, and worthy of love and respect.” This intention coincides with the Season of Creation, which the Church observes in September. It is a time to pray, reflect and act with creation, not just to preserve it for the future, but because creation itself is God’s gift and revelation of love.

Pope Francis reminded us that “the earth is sick, just like anyone who’s sick.” Creation groans under the weight of human negligence, climate change and environmental disasters. As the Holy Father pointed out, it is always the poor who suffer the most when families are forced from their homes by floods, droughts or other natural disasters. The Pope called us to a response that is not only ecological, but also social, economic and political. We are called to commit ourselves to fight against poverty, and to protect nature by changing our personal and community habits.

As a Parish community, we will take a tangible step forward on this journey. Starting 31 August 2025 - coinciding with Merdeka Day - our Parish will commit to a renewed ecological initiative. Together, we will cultivate habits and undertake projects that protect the environment - from reducing waste to planting trees, conserving energy to raising awareness on how our everyday choices impact the environment. Inspired by Saint Francis, we aim to make our Parish a testament that love for God must also include love and respect for all of God’s creatures.

This call for ecological conversion also resonates deeply with the meaning of Merdeka. Malaysia celebrates 68 years of independence this year. Independence is not just about raising our national flag, but about building a nation that upholds justice and dignity - caring for all its citizens. Sadly, we often see strong reactions - such as when the flag is raised upside down - while deeper crises such as rising living costs, environmental degradation and a loss of trust in leaders,  are left unaddressed.

True patriotism must go beyond the national flag. It is about ensuring that every citizen has food security, quality healthcare, fair opportunities, and the freedom to live with dignity. A mature and confident nation listens to the cries of its people, and the cries of creation. Malaysia should strive to be a nation that shows respect for both people and homeland (tanahair).

Let us therefore unite our love for God, creation and our beloved country. As we pledge ourselves to ecological care, may we also renew our commitment to building a nation rooted in justice, compassion and responsibility. In this way, we honour both the Creator and the cherished gift of independence as true Malaysians.

HAPPY MERDEKA, MALAYSIA!

LET’S KEEP THE SPIRIT OF UNITY ALIVE!

PLANTING THE SEEDS OF CATHOLIC FAITH

On 28 August 2025, I was fortunate to meet a new Asli Community (Indigenous people) at Kampung Asli, Kundang, Muadzam Shah, approximately 120 km from Kuantan. Around 80 members of this community have expressed their interest in becoming Catholics. 

On this first encounter, we gathered to celebrate the Word of God, and together we learned to pray the Rosary. It was a moment of simplicity, yet deeply moving, as faith began to take root in their hearts. Each family received a holy picture of St. Thomas the Apostle and a Rosary—reminders that Christ walks with them on their journey of faith.

 

As we continue to accompany this community, I humbly invite all of us to keep them in our prayers. May the Lord, through the loving intercession of Mother Mary and St. Thomas the Apostle, bless their desire to embrace the Catholic faith. May He grant them strength in trials, perseverance in faith, and joy in following Christ.

 

Thank you, Joseph and Ivan, for your assistance and cooperation. I pray that this little seed planted today will blossom into a vibrant community of believers, rooted in the Catholic Church and alive in the Spirit.

REMAIN UNITED IN PRAYER AND IN SERVICE

This year, the Catholic Prison Fellowship Association of the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur joyfully celebrates its 40th anniversary with the theme, “Companions of Hope and Healing” on Saturday, 23 August 2025, at the Church of St. Francis of Assisi, Cheras, Kuala Lumpur.

Together with our Archbishop and Priests, who have faithfully walked alongside this ministry over the years, we concelebrated a solemn Thanksgiving Mass at 11.00 am. Along with our committee members, volunteers, their families, and all who carry this mission in their hearts, we lifted up our gratitude to God for four decades of service, compassion, and solidarity with our brothers and sisters behind prison walls.

Today, over 80 volunteers dedicate their time to visiting prisons across Selangor, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, and Terengganu. Week after week, often with little recognition, they choose to step into places filled with pain and despair to share a message of Christ with those who are incarcerated. Their humble acts of presence, prayer, sharing, listening, and encouragement remind the incarcerated that they are not forgotten, and that they are still beloved children of God. This quiet yet steadfast service truly reflects the spirit of the Gospel and inspires them to show kindness and compassion.

Prisons can indeed be dark places, yet time and again, we have seen how God’s light shines through even the deepest shadows. Through sharing the Word of God, the Sacrament of Reconciliation, and the Eucharist, Christ himself draws near to heal minds, bodies, and spirits. It is in these moments, those of us who serve, find that our own faith grows stronger and is renewed by these precious encounters. Truly, as St. Paul reminds us to, “Keep in mind those who are in prison, as though you were in prison with them”(Hebrews 13:3).

As we reflect on this milestone, we cannot forget the inspiring witness of St. Maximilian Kolbe. Imprisoned in Auschwitz, he chose to live out his priesthood to the very end, freely sacrificing his life in place of a fellow prisoner. In the darkness of the starvation bunker, his faith and love became a radiant sign of Christ’s presence. His sacrifice teaches us that love is strongest when it gives itself for others.

May his example inspire us in our prison ministry: to serve not only out of duty, but out of love that brings hope where it is scarce, brings light into darkness, and restores dignity that has been lost. 

As we celebrate 40 years of this mission, let us remain united in prayer and in service. May our efforts always be guided by peace, joy, and gratitude. May we, like St. Maximilian Kolbe, continue to shine as beacons of God’s love to those whom the world too easily forgets.

Lord, strengthen all those who are in this Prison Ministry with Your love, so that they may continue to bring light, hope, and healing to our brothers and sisters in prison.

 

 

A COMMUNITY UNITED IN FAITH

On Tuesday, 12 August 2025, our PPC and PCC met to review our Parish activities and performance for the first half of 2025. As the discussion progressed, we realised that only a few events and formation sessions had been organised for our own parishioners. However, most weekends have seen many pilgrims from the West Coast and the southern part of Peninsular Malaysia, visiting our Parish - which has been designated as a Jubilee Parish for this special pilgrimage year.

This Jubilee Year of Hope has truly been a wonderful time, filled with welcoming pilgrims and sharing Christ’s love and hope. Many pilgrims have expressed heartfelt thanks for the warmth and care they experienced during their visits.

We recognise that caring for our parish-family’s faith and needs is vital to our mission. As we look ahead to the coming months, we are eager to continue the spirit of good-work in building the Parish community through various events, activities and formations that will benefit both parishioners and pilgrims.

This month, Pope Leo XIV urges us to pray for societies to avoid conflicts due to ethnic, political, religious or ideological differences. His words are pertinent as Malaysia celebrates its 68th Merdeka Day, reminding us to respond to differences with kindness, respect and fraternity. Even locally, misunderstandings can occur among neighbours or across cultures. Peace begins with us – through forgiveness, listening and kindness. Small acts - such as offering greetings, showing patience and lending a helping hand - foster connections that unite rather than divide.

Together with building peace, we are also called to care for creation. This year marks the 10th anniversary of Laudato Si’ - Pope Francis’ encyclical on the care of our common home - reminding us that protecting our common home is both a moral and spiritual responsibility. As a parish, we have already taken small steps by placing recycling bins within our premises and reducing waste. However, the real challenge is an ecological conversion – a change of heart that shapes the way we live. We now pledge to carry these efforts forward by avoiding single-use plastic, conserving water and electricity, and teaching our children to love and respect nature. Even small changes at home can make a difference in our wider community.

Our Parish Pastoral Mission - guided by the Holy Spirit - calls us to cherish our faith, strengthen families and youth, build the Church from the grassroots, live synodality daily, root all service in prayer, respond to God’s call, celebrate the sacraments, be a welcoming Church, and live in ongoing repentance.

As we journey through the rest of the year, may we commit ourselves to peace, care for creation, and the mission that God has entrusted to us. Guided by the Holy Spirit, may we hear God’s Word - understand it, and live it out - so that our parish may shine as a community united in faith, active in love, and joyful in hope.

GOSPEL VALUES THROUGH ECOLOGICAL AWARENESS

On Saturday, 9 August 2025, our Parish hosted a special formation session on ecology and the environment. It was led by Rev Fr Andrew Manickam, the Ecclesiastical Assistant for Justice and Creation of the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, along with his team. We truly appreciated their presence, and we are grateful for their guidance as we came together to reflect on our important role as stewards of God’s beautiful creation.

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the encyclical Laudato Si’, by Pope Francis, which calls the entire Church and all people of goodwill to care for our common home. It is a timely reminder for us at the Church of St. Thomas, Kuantan, to examine the ecological challenges around us, and to take meaningful and practical action as a community of faith.

As a parish, we have already started taking small but meaningful steps. A few months ago, we introduced recycling bins within our church grounds. Through ongoing efforts, such as catechesis and friendly reminders in our bulletins, we have begun educating our Parishioners about waste reduction and responsible disposal – and this is only the beginning!

This weekend, as we commit to ecological initiatives through the Parish Pledge, we invite everyone to adopt a more sustainable lifestyle. Recycling or avoiding plastic bags is simply not enough. Instead, we are called to an ecological conversion – a change of heart that enables us to live in harmony with God’s creation. Let us be more responsible in our consumption habits, reduce waste, promote sustainable transport such as carpooling, and be mindful of our resource use.

We encourage everyone in our Parish community to think about ways as to how we can reduce single-use plastic, improve recycling for paper, glass, plastics and metals, and lessen energy and water waste at home as well as in our Parish buildings. These may seem like small steps, but when everyone does their part, it creates an effective ripple effect. 

Let this formation be more than just an event, let it be the beginning of a new Parish lifestyle. We are called to become a community that cares – one that teaches our children the value of creation, supports each other in green initiatives, and influences our wider society by living out Gospel values through ecological awareness.

Each of us can take a moment to reflect on the daily choices we make: what are the choices that I am making daily that either harm or help God’s creation? Think about small changes you might initiate at home, at the workplace, or at school that make a real difference. As a parish family, let’s find ways to support and encourage one another through this meaningful journey. Together, let us embrace this call as a joyful mission, filled with love for the earth, for generations to come.

BUILD PEACE FROM WITHIN

In his prayer intention for August 2025, Pope Leo XIV invites us to pray, “that societies avoid internal conflicts due to ethnic, political, religious or ideological reasons.” His call is simple yet profoundly challenging: that we become people of peace, especially as we prepare to celebrate our 68th Merdeka Day on 31 August.

The Pope reminds us that we live in a world filled with fear and division. “We build walls instead of bridges and forget that we are brothers and sisters.” He urges us to respond to conflict not with anger or suspicion, but with kindness, attention and gestures of fraternity.

We don’t have to look far to see how these divisions are forming. Even in a peaceful area like the East Coast of the Peninsula - with its coastal beauty and multicultural harmony - minor tensions can arise, such as misunderstandings between neighbours, religious or ideological differences, or mistrust among ethnic groups, or political influences that sometimes stir unrest rather than offer solutions. 

In recent times, we have witnessed a rise in political tensions and disunity across the nation. Some leaders, despite having been discredited or removed, continue to push personal agendas in an attempt to regain power. Often, in the name of “protecting or fighting for the rights of the rakyat,” they prioritise their own interests. It is clear that political ambition, family legacy, and personal gain seem to matter more than truth, justice, and the well-being of the people.

Worse still, these conflicts can deeply affect our multi-racial and multi-religious society. When ethnic or religious sentiments are used for political gain, the consequences can be long-lasting. We begin to see each other with distrust. This often leads us to view each other suspiciously - building walls of prejudice and shutting out dialogue. Consequently, peace can easily fall apart.

Yet, the Holy Father’s intention invites us to walk a different path — a path of hope, healing, and unity. During this Jubilee Year of Hope - and as we approach Merdeka - let’s wholeheartedly answer the call to become peacemakers in our home, society, community, and nation. Remember, peace starts from within — in the way we choose to forgive, the way we treat those different from us, and the way we listen with respect.

Small acts of kindness, words, actions and understanding are more powerful than we realise. Every dialogue and gesture of goodwill can become a bridge that brings us closer together, rather than a wall that divides us. Let us set aside pride and prejudice and recognise others with the same dignity, compassion and love that God shows us. 

As Malaysians, our strength is in our unity. Let us not allow narrow interests to divide us. Instead, may this August be a time when we choose to live the Pope’s intention, build peace from within, and become instruments of harmony in our family, church, and society. Peace is not a faraway dream. It begins with us – here and now.

THEIR PRESENCE, OUR BLESSING

This weekend, we honour the pillars of our families on a meaningful occasion – the 5th World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, established by Pope Francis. It is observed each year near the feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus. The theme this year is entitled “Blessed are those who have not lost hope” (Sirach 14:2).

In a world that often focuses on youth and quickness, the elderly are too easily sidelined. However, the Church, in her wisdom, gently urges us to slow our pace and open our hearts to those who are the living memories of our families and communities. Like Saints Joachim and Anne, many grandparents possess a wealth of wisdom, prayer, and a faith that has endured life’s challenges and the passing years. They truly are, in every way, the quiet pillars of our families.

During this Jubilee Year of Hope, as part of this celebration, a plenary indulgence is granted to those who participate in Mass for this World Day. It is also wonderful to reach out to the elderly with acts of kindness – whether by visiting, calling, or bringing them Holy Communion with love and reverence. Even a simple act, such as praying for them or offering a comforting call, can become a meaningful channel of grace and blessings.

During the pandemic lockdown, I visited an elderly woman who lived alone. Her children were overseas, and the silence in her house felt quite heavy at times. One day, she shared, “Father, it is hard. Sometimes I cry. But when you bring me Holy Communion, I feel Jesus is with me – and I am at peace.” I still visit her and a few others whom I know dearly occasionally with Holy Communion.

She was not the only one. There were others – men and women whose homes were quiet but whose hearts still beat loudly with hope. Although many have not seen their families for months, when we bring Jesus to them in Holy Communion or on our personal visits, their eyes sparkle with joy, and their hope is rekindled.

To our young people and families: Let’s make this a wonderful weekend filled with prayer, gratitude, and outreach. Many of our beloved elderly friends may feel lonely, confined to their homes, or facing health challenges. Let’s reach out to them – not just with gifts, but with warm hearts full of love and care. Take the time to sit and listen to their stories and assist them with small tasks. Invite them to share a meal with you. Let their perseverance inspire the younger generation. Let them bless your children and pray over you. Their voices can truly guide and uplift us. Their presence is not a burden but a blessing that enriches us all!

GOD BLESS OUR DEAR GRANDPARENTS AND THE ELDERLY.

YOUR LOVE IS OUR TREASURE!

HONOURING GRANDPARENTS AND THE ELDERLY IN THE JUBILEE YEAR

This year, the Catholic Church commemorates the 5th World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly on Sunday, 27 July 2025, with the heartfelt theme “Blessed are those who have not lost hope” (cf. Sirach 14:2). Established by Pope Francis in 2021, this special day is celebrated each year on the fourth Sunday of July – close to the feast of Saints Joachim and Anne - honouring grandparents and the elderly within families and the Church. The theme highlights the dignity of the elderly and promotes trust in the Lord during old age.

Pope Francis urged elderly grandparents to rediscover hope as a source of joy and happiness during the Jubilee Year of Hope. He reflected on biblical figures like Abraham, Sarah, Moses, and Zechariah – called by God in their old age – to show that God never ceases to work through us, regardless of our age. He emphasised that old age is not a time of decline, but a time of grace, blessing and mission.

The late Pope emphasised that our elderly are true witnesses of hope, and play a vital role in passing down faith, wisdom and values to the younger generation. Like Jacob, who blessed his grandchildren, today’s elders are called to guide the young with their rich experience and compassionate care. In return, the youth are encouraged to support and learn from their wise elders and to foster a bond of mutual respect and growth.

Pope Francis reminded us that every elderly person, even with their weaknesses, can still love, pray and hope. Their suffering can shine brightly as a testament to God’s love and His divine presence. Visiting the elderly is not just a gesture - it is like a meaningful pilgrimage to Christ, especially for those who cannot make the journey to Rome. Let us cherish and nurture our grandparents and elderly loved ones, recognising how their faith, presence and prayers continue to inspire and shape our future.

In this Jubilee of hope and renewal, Pope Francis warmly called for a gentle change in how society cares for our elderly. Too often, they can feel forgotten, lonely and overlooked, but he invited us to make a heartfelt difference. He called on the Church to lead a beautiful “revolution of tenderness and gratitude” by visiting seniors, welcoming them into prayer groups, and restoring their dignity.

During this Jubilee Year, Pope Leo XIV encouraged prioritising the elderly who are unable to join pilgrimages to the designated parishes. A plenary indulgence is graciously granted to all who attend Mass or prayer services throughout this week, or visit elderly friends and neighbours, whether in person or virtually. This includes those who are lonely, unwell, or facing disability. It is a wonderful opportunity to demonstrate kindness and compassion!

Let this be a week of prayer, gratitude, and outreach. We are invited to recite the Rosary and offer special intentions for our grandparents and the elderly. Spend quality time with them or reach out to them, and encourage grandchildren and young people to listen to their stories and recognise their irreplaceable role in the family and the Church. 

Lord, bless our grandparents and the elderly with joy, strength and hope, and may we always honour them with love and gratitude.

MY LORD, MY GOD AND MY HOPE

Over the past ten days, we have experienced a beautiful and faith-filled celebration of our Parish feast. Our Parishioners, as well as pilgrims from around the Klang Valley, came together with deep devotion to honour our beloved Patron - St Thomas, the Greatest Gift of Our Times. Each day’s celebration brought us closer to understanding how Thomas’ journey from doubt to faith, continues to inspire us today. Through daily reflection on the sub-themes of the day, and Eucharistic celebrations, we are reminded that when we encounter Christ, our hearts are touched and transformed, and we are filled with hope. Now, like St Thomas, we are called to believe in Christ and courageously go on mission.

One of the most moving moments of the novena was the Anointing of the Sick, where over 150 individuals came forward seeking healing. It was a powerful reminder that the wounds of Christ are our hope, strength and healing. The overall celebrations have revitalised our spirit and affirmed that St Thomas remains a guiding light in our times. As we look ahead, may we continue to turn to our patron saint to lead us deeper in faith and strengthen our hope.

Now, as we are already in the second half of 2025, we are encouraged to reflect on our spiritual journey once again. The midpoint of the year is not just a passing moment, but a spiritual opportunity for growth. In this Jubilee Year, we are called to let go of what holds us back, embrace healing and renewal, and step into new beginnings with faith and courage. It is a time of transformation, where the Holy Spirit continues to inspire us to witness fearlessly and share in the Lord’s goodness authentically.

This weekend, we gather with warm hearts to support and pray for our Confirmation camp participants. Approximately 18 participants - led by dedicated facilitators headed by Alvin Fernandez - will be guided in their preparation for the Sacrament of Confirmation. May the Holy Spirit inspire their hearts, helping them grow in faith, deepen their love for Christ, and live out their baptismal call with confidence, courage and joy.

On Saturday, 12 July 2025, we also warmly welcome 80 young people from the Archdiocese Single Adults and Youth Office (ASAYO) and 20 of our Parish youth, for the Jubilee of Youth celebration. May their experience help them to live their faith with purpose and passion. Furthermore, may our Parish youth find inspiration to discern their vocations and assume leadership roles within the Church of today.

Like St Thomas, the Apostle, may we move from uncertainty to one of confident witness, from searching, to proclaiming – “My Lord, My God and My Hope.” Let us walk forward together as pilgrims of faith and messengers of hope, trusting that God guides us at every step, especially as we focus on Formation in Discernment this month, in line with the Pope’s intention. May our eyes remain fixed on Christ, our hearts anchored in hope, and our lives committed to love.

WITH ST THOMAS: WE DISCERN, WE SEEK, WE BELIEVE

This month of July, the Pope’s intention for the Universal Church focuses on the theme of Formation in Discernment. His intention is that we may “learn again how to discern, to know how to choose paths of life and reject everything that leads us away from Christ and the Gospel.” 

In a world filled with noise, choices, and nonstop activity, discernment can be a challenging task. Discernment enables us to pause and reflect on our choices and the direction of our lives. Discernment is not reserved for the priestly and religious life. To discern, to listen, to seek, and to choose not merely what is good, but what is God’s will. It is also for the major life choices. It is a daily practice: how we speak, how we love, how we forgive, how we prioritise our time, how we respond to suffering, and how we remain faithful in both happy moments and trials. 

Formation in discernment must be grounded in prayer, enriched by the Word of God, directed by spiritual guidance, and affirmed through community and mission. This call to discernment comes at a beautiful moment for our Parish community of St Thomas, Kuantan, as we approach the conclusion of the feast of our patron, St Thomas, the Apostle, on 6 July 2025. Our novena, which began on 27 June 2025 and will culminate on Sunday, 6 July 2025, has been a truly grace-filled moment. We thank God for the inspiring presence of a few Presiders who have presided over our Novena, Feast and Thanksgiving Masses. 

During the first three days of the novena to St. Thomas, celebrated by Rev Fr Peter Anthoney and Rev Fr Xavier Andrew, which continued over the subsequent two days. Rev Fr Clement Lim presided on the sixth day of the novena. The last four days, from 3 to 6 July, featured Rev Fr Joe Stephen, CSsR, celebrating our novena Masses, which included the Anointing of the Sick, followed by a candlelight procession with the Most Blessed Sacrament and a Thanksgiving Mass to St. Thomas as a concluding feast.

Their preachings, prayers, and examples have helped open our hearts to deeper faith formation in discernment as we journey through the second half of this Jubilee Year of Hope. St. Thomas, known as “Doubting Thomas,” exemplifies sincere faith and courage. He teaches us that faith is not the absence of questions but the willingness to seek, touch, and meet the risen Christ. His journey from doubt to proclamation, from hesitation to mission, mirrors every believer’s search for the truth in Christ, Our Hope, who will never disappoint.

Our nine-day Novena Masses and a Thanksgiving Mass will guide us to discern rightly, live faithfully, and follow Christ wholeheartedly. Like St. Thomas, may we echo those powerful words: “My Lord and My God!” and thus choose the path of life.