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.

A JUBILEE OF PRIESTLY LOVE

The Jubilee of Priests took place from Wednesday, 25 June to Friday, 27 June 2025. The Church gathered its parishioners in gratitude and intercession, dedicating time to pray for all priests as they reflected on and renewed their sacred calling, in preparation for the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus and the World Day of Prayer for the Sanctity of Priestly Life. It is a day that reminds our priests to return to the source of their vocation: the Heart of Christ, the Eternal High Priest.

We gratefully remember the many priests who have served our community since the founding of our Parish in 1906. Some walked with us for many years, others for only a short time, but each left a lasting legacy through their ministry, witness, and dedication. These Bishops, Priests, and Deacons stood at our Church altars, offering the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass. They baptised us and our children, celebrated our weddings, comforted us in sickness, guided us gently in confession, and lovingly laid our loved ones to rest.

In our Parish of St. Thomas, Kuantan, we celebrated this Jubilee of Priests with three prayerful days, during which all Masses and devotions were specifically dedicated to the intentions of priests, both past and present. On Wednesday, the focus was on remembering all priests who served in our parish over the decades. We lifted them in prayer, recalling not only their names but also their presence as spiritual fathers who guided us in faith. 

On Thursday, our prayers turned to the living priests who have ministered among us more recently and continue to be present in our lives. These are not just ministers of the altar, but friends and companions who have walked with our families and supported our East Coast Catholic community with dedication and love.

Then, on Friday, the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus, we entered even more deeply as we began our Novena to St. Thomas, the Apostle, with a special Holy Hour of Adoration before the Blessed Sacrament. Our intentions reached beyond our Parish to include the priests of the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur and throughout Malaysia. We prayed for strength and renewal for them, especially as they carry the weight of pastoral demands in our changing world. Though often weary, they remain steadfast in their willingness to serve the Lord and His Church.

As we celebrate our Jubilee, let’s take a moment to appreciate the wonderful priests who walk alongside us! These remarkable persons are familiar faces, friends, and servants of God who play a vital role in our lives. They are our companions, friends, and sources of encouragement. Let us express our heartfelt thanks to them! Together, let's strive to imitate the love and service they have shown us. Cheers to our Priests – thank you for all you do!

INSPIRING FAITH IN YOUNG PEOPLE TODAY

 This weekend, we express our gratitude to God as we reflect on two inspiring figures who are models of young people’s faith and discernment: Pope Leo XIV and Saint Philip Minh with his companions. Their lives and stories inspire our young people in their vocational discernment and the virtues they must cultivate.

On Thursday, 19 June 2025, our Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, celebrated 43 years since his ordination to the sacred priesthood. More than four decades ago, he dedicated his life to Christ and the Church. In 1982, he was ordained in Rome at the age of 27 as a member of the Order of Saint Augustine, marking the beginning of his priestly service.

Pope Leo celebrated his priestly anniversary with a private Mass, expressing gratitude despite the absence of a public celebration at the Vatican. This act reflects his deep commitment to his role as a priest and Bishop of Rome, and now as the Successor of Peter, guiding the Universal Church. His journey emphasises that the priesthood is a lifelong path of love, sacrifice, and grace, dedicated to serving God and His people. This anniversary invites us to reflect on the beauty of being a priest, a special calling to live closely with Christ and share His light with the world. In uncertain times, the enduring witness of our shepherd speaks louder than words through their perseverance, dedication and prayer.

On 19 June, we also commemorated the Memorial of Saint Philip Minh and his four companions – Saint Peter Quy, Saint Paul Loc, Saint John Hoan, and Saint Peter Luu - who were students at the College General in Penang in the 1800s. They were profoundly shaped by the Gospel during their seminary years in our very own region. Upon returning to their homeland, Vietnam, they dedicated themselves to serving their people during a time of persecution. 

Their story exemplifies extraordinary courage and conviction. When commanded to renounce Christ, they chose to stay faithful, even at the cost of their lives. In 1853, they were martyred and to honour their sacrifice, Pope Saint John Paul II canonised them as saints in 1988, together with 116 other Vietnamese Martyrs. They are shining examples of fidelity and loyalty in the face of persecution. Like these holy martyrs, young people today face trials, doubts, and hardships as they stand for Jesus, remain steadfast, and always hope in Christ, who always rises again.

As we prepare for the Jubilee Year for Priests from Wednesday, 25 June to Friday, 27 June, 2025, let us reflect on the lives of Pope Leo XIV and Saint Philip Minh with his companions. Their commitment to priestly service and courageous martyrdom inspires young people as they discern their own vocations. In the face of challenges and uncertainties, may they be encouraged to listen to God’s call and respond with faith and generosity. Let us seek the intercession of Saint Philip Minh and his companions, nurturing the seeds of vocation and holiness in the hearts of the young people today.

RISING AS ONE CHURCH IN MALAYSIA

We are glad to have experienced a meaningful and purposeful Easter Season, a time for grace, reflection, and the renewal of our faith. As a Parish and as individuals, we have engaged in numerous spiritual activities, liturgies, and events during this sacred season. It has truly awakened our spirits, uniting us as one Body of Christ and strengthening our commitment to witness the message of the Risen Lord.

Over the past two weeks, starting on 1 June 2025, we have had a truly special moment in our Parish as we welcomed the Perjalanan Salib (Pilgrimage Cross). This Cross arrived from Terengganu and was placed with reverence at the main entrance of our Church. After the Mandarin Mass on Sunday at 11.30 am, the Mandarin-speaking Parishioners gathered in prayer around the Salib (Cross). Throughout the week, the Salib journeyed to two Kampung Asli and other outstation Mass centres, blessing the lives of these communities. It has been a heartwarming experience for all of us!

On the weekend of 7 and 8 June 2025, the Salib was placed in the sanctuary, becoming the spiritual centrepiece of our liturgies. After the Prayer of the Faithful at each Mass, we knelt and prayed together, lifting up all the nine dioceses (three in Peninsular Malaysia and the six dioceses in Sabah and Sarawak), as well as our communities and families, in heartfelt intercession. Following the weekend Masses, the Cross was transferred to the Adoration Room. There, Parishioners continued to reflect and pray quietly, both as groups and individuals, before the Salib.

A special prayer gathering for all teenagers and youths of our Parish was organised on Saturday, 14 June 2025, from 10 am to 12 noon, inviting them to encounter Christ in a profound way through this significant symbol of faith, the Perjalanan Salib. It has immersed them in deeper prayer and meditation, fostering within them the spirit of courageous witnesses of the Gospel in today’s world.

This Salib is more than a symbol; it forms part of a national devotional pilgrimage initiated by our nine Malaysian Bishops on 3 April 2025, during the Malaysia Catholic Youth Day in Kota Kinabalu. It serves as spiritual preparation for the Pan-Malaysia Pastoral Convention, scheduled for September 2026, reminding us all to rise as one Church in Malaysia – walking in one mission, living as one Body of Christ, and moving forward in one Spirit.

Our Parish is now preparing for the Novena, Feast Day, and Thanksgiving Mass of Saint Thomas, the Apostle, from Friday, 27 June to Sunday, 6 July 2025. This year’s theme is “Saint Thomas: The Greatest Gift of Our Times.” Last year, we requested permission for a Eucharistic procession through the town, but it was not approved. We have submitted the application again this year and hope the authorities will grant us permission.

You are warmly invited to bring your family and friends to celebrate our Patron Saint, Saint Thomas, the Apostle. As we move forward, may the Holy Spirit continue to stir our hearts, guiding us in faith and mission. May Saint Thomas intercede for us always.

Pentecost: A New Beginning in the Spirit

This weekend, we come together joyfully to celebrate the feast of Pentecost, a feast often referred to as the birthday of the Universal Church. Pentecost commemorates the powerful descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and the birth of the Church’s mission in the world. This significant feast occurs fifty days after the joyous celebration of Easter and following the glorious Ascension of the Lord, marking a moment in our Church’s calendar, the beginning of her mission, purpose and journey. 

Since the Ascension, the Church has been united in longing and prayer, invoking the Holy Spirit with hymns like “Come, Holy Spirit, Creator Blest” and the timeless chant “Veni Sancte Spiritus.” These beautiful melodies continue to echo in our hearts today, reminding us that we are never alone – the Spirit is with us, guiding, empowering, and sanctifying.

Throughout these seven weeks of Easter, we have journeyed together on a sacred path of faith. Each step has drawn us closer to a deeper understanding of our spiritual identity. As we opened our hearts to welcome the abundant outpouring of the Holy Spirit, we were invited to experience renewal, awakening, and transformation in various aspects of our lives.

Pentecost is not just a commemoration of a past event – it is a living moment of grace and an invitation to renewal. It calls us to strengthen our commitment as devoted disciples of Christ, boldly proclaiming the Good News with courage, joy, and love. It urges us to become living witnesses of the Spirit, bearing fruit in our words and actions as we await the Lord’s glorious return. Thus, Pentecost calls us to live in the fullness of the Spirit, embracing a life of purpose, empowerment, and new beginnings.

Now, as we arrive at the Solemnity of Pentecost, we are invited to pause and reflect:

·      In what ways has this Easter season deepened my personal faith and spiritual understanding?

·      How have the teachings and shared experiences enriched our parish community, fostering a stronger bond among us?

Let us celebrate Pentecost not as the end of the Easter season, but as a new beginning – a fresh outpouring of grace that renews our faith, bringing with it the gifts of reconciliation, forgiveness, and renewal of faith. As the Spirit descends, may we open our hearts to the transformative power it brings, fostering unity and rekindling our love in every aspect of our lives.

Together, we raise our voices in a collective prayer: “Come, Holy Spirit, fill the hearts of Your faithful and enkindle in them the fire of Your love. Send forth Your Spirit, and they shall be created. And You shall renew the face of the earth.

 

 

COMMUNICATING HOPE IN A DIGITAL WORLD

This weekend (1 June 2025), the Church celebrates the 59th World Day of Social Communications, which carries the theme chosen by the late Pope Francis: “Share with gentleness the hope that is in your hearts” (1 Peter 3:15-16). This message, released on 24 January 2024, speaks about how modern communication, especially on social media, has become aggressive, divisive, and manipulative. The late Pope warned that this kind of communication creates conflict, division, spreads confusion, and digital distraction, which weakens our sense of community and care for one another.

Pope Francis called for a “disarming” of communication. For example, people often argue or insult others online without knowing them. Pope Francis invites us to change this by becoming gentle and respectful in how we speak, share, and engage in dialogue rooted in respect and truth. He challenged journalists and communicators to become “communicators of hope,” witnessing to Christ not just through words but through lives marked by gentleness and presence.

The late Pope highlighted three key points: first, Christian hope is found in the risen Christ; second, this hope must be shared through lived witness; and third, our communication must be marked by reverence, humility, and compassion. He envisioned a form of communication that builds bridges, spreads goodness, and heals wounds. We should emphasise stories of kindness and utilise our communication to support others, particularly those who are marginalised, during this Jubilee Year of Hope.

In continuity with this vision, the newly elected Pope Leo XIV spoke about the Church’s role in guiding us through the age of Artificial Intelligence (AI). Just as Pope Leo XIII responded with his famous letter, Rerum Novarum (on capital and Labour), Pope Leo XIV asserts that the Church must now address the new challenge posed by AI. The Church needs to clarify its stance on the impact of AI on people’s dignity, justice, and employment.

Pope Leo XIV affirmed that AI must serve the common good and human fraternity, echoing Pope Francis’ earlier call to avoid a “technological dictatorship.” Pope Leo reminds us not to allow technology to replace our relationships or values. AI can help write documents or translate languages, but it cannot show love, kindness, or truly understand our pain. We should use technology wisely and always remember what makes us human. 

Referring again to Rerum Novarum, Pope Leo XIV highlights two important things for AI: first, everyone has the right to meaningful work, and second, people’s ideas and creations should be respected. These ideas are crucial to ensure that AI does not exploit workers or devalue human creativity. For instance, if an artist creates a song, AI should not copy it without credit. If a worker loses their job to a machine, society must help protect their dignity and assist them in finding new opportunities.

The Church and society encourage us to use communication, whether through media or technology, to connect with others instead of creating division. As we face digital change, we are called to be sources of hope, using all tools, including media and AI, to support truth, peace, and the dignity of every person.

HOLY DOORS, HOLY MOMENTS OF HOPE

From 14 to 24 May 2025, I had an opportunity to lead 31 pilgrims on a ten-day spiritual journey through Italy, culminating in Rome during this Jubilee Year of Hope. With hearts open and spirits eager, we walked the long, sometimes tiring roads, but every step drew us nearer to the mystery of God’s strength, love, mercy, and above all, hope.

Our pilgrimage began in the culturally rich cities of Bologna and Florence and then led us into the sacred serenity of Assisi. There, the simplicity and humility of St. Francis stirred our hearts and souls. A particularly moving moment for me was praying before the incorruptible Blessed Carlo Acutis’ body. To think that this young, modern-day saint may soon be canonised - possibly by the end of June - is a sign of holiness being alive and relevant for every generation. I paused and prayed, seeking his intercession for our youth, Church, and world.

In Loreto, we encountered the tender presence of Mary in the Holy House, a place steeped in the quiet strength of her humility. Lanciano brought us face-to-face with the miraculous proof of Christ’s Real Presence in the Eucharist - an awe - inspiring sign of divine love. At San Giovanni Rotondo, we stood in prayer before the incorrupt body of St. Padre Pio, a visible witness to the depth of sanctity to which God calls each one of us. Then came Manopello, where the Holy Face of Jesus gently reminded us that even when we turn away, His gaze remains fixed upon us in love.

And then came Rome - the heart of the Church, and for me, the heart of our pilgrimage. We passed through the four Jubilee Holy Doors: St. Peter’s, St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major, and St. Paul Outside the Walls. Each door was more than an architectural threshold; it was a doorway of grace. As the late Pope Francis reminded us, this Jubilee is a sacred time to rediscover hope - not as an abstract idea, but as a living encounter with God’s faithful love. Walking through these doors, I felt that hope, take root more deeply in my heart and in my priestly ministry.

One deeply personal and emotional moment was standing in silence at the simple tomb of Pope Francis, a man whose humility and love for the Church have touched the world. A joyful highlight was seeing Pope Leo XIV in St. Peter’s Square, waving and blessing us from his mobile, such a close and unforgettable encounter.

Despite the exhaustion of long travels and tight schedules, we celebrated Mass daily, joined in prayer and fellowship, and shared our faith stories. We were not just tourists, instead, we were pilgrims walking together in faith and hope. 

Now, back in my Parish - designated as a Jubilee Pilgrim Center - I carry with me the blessings and graces of Rome. Let us continue our Jubilee Year journey, with the same joy, reverence, and trust that accompanied us. As I have come to know more deeply, Hope is not a concept. Hope is a Person - Jesus Christ - who walks with us today and always.

POPE LEO XIV: A SHEPHERD FOR OUR TIME

Our new Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, has already captured the hearts of many with his radiant smile and youthful energy, especially the 1.4 billion Catholics around the world. From the moment he appeared on the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica, there was something special about him. It’s not just his age or friendliness, but the way he carries many hearts within his own: the heart of a shepherd, a missionary, a listener, a man of courage, and most of all, a man of the people.

Before the world saw him in Rome, he walked the dusty streets of Peru. As a missionary priest and later as Bishop of Chiclayo, he spent years among the poor and forgotten. He lived and worked closely with the people — eating with villagers, listening to the young and the elderly, comforting grieving families, and praying with those who had lost everything. He didn’t serve from above but walked side by side with those he was sent to love.

Many of us have had a glimpse of his life through articles, interviews, live videos, and people’s stories. What stands out most is his simplicity. He hardly talks about himself, but when he speaks of the Word of God and the Social Teaching of the Church, the world stops and listens. His faith is not just words — it’s real, alive, full of compassion, and sometimes even tears and smiles. That is what makes him so close to us.

Pope Leo XIV was elected on May 8, 2025, a date full of meaning. May is the month of Mary, a time when we bring flowers to her altars, pray the Rosary as families, and turn to her gentle love. Starting his papacy in this special month, feels like Mary has been walking with him from the very beginning — just like she walked with Jesus. May is also a time of new life and hope. So this new beginning for the Church, under Pope Leo XIV, feels like a springtime of faith. Like Mary, he said “yes” with a trusting and humble heart.

Let us all look forward to two important events coming up soon: His inauguration Mass on Sunday, 18 May 2025, at 10 am(Rome time), and His first public audience during the Angelus on Wednesday, 21 May 2025.

These are not just formal events — they are moments of grace, moments that allow us to feel connected as one Church, wherever we are. We are not just welcoming a pope — we are starting a new journey of faith. Let us pray for Pope Leo XIV every day. Let us ask Mary to keep him close to her heart.

In his own words: “The Church must always lean closer to the wounded, the forgotten, and the searching. We must be a people of mercy before we are a people of answers.”

Dear Jesus, thank you for Pope Leo XIV. Give him strength, wisdom, courage, and a loving heart. Help him to lead your Church with kindness and truth. Keep him close to Mary, your Mother, and protect him always. Amen.

POPE LEO XIV: A SHEPHERD OF PEACE AND MISSION

HABEMUS PAPAM! WE HAVE A POPE!

As the bells of St. Peter’s Basilica rang out on 7 May 2025, the world turned its gaze toward Vatican City. The long-anticipated Conclave had begun. After the solemn Mass, 133 Cardinals dressed in red, processed into the Sistine Chapel to elect the 267th Successor of St. Peter. All eyes were fixed on the chimney, waiting for the signal - white smoke - to declare to the world: Habemus Papam! We have a pope!

I was up until midnight on 8 May, waiting to hear the historic announcement of a new pope, but unfortunately, I fell asleep before it happened! When I woke up for my morning Mass, the announcement had already been made. I quickly checked the news before my Mass. I was very happy to share the news with the morning Mass congregation, using the prayers for the newly elected pope. I was moved by the few words he said from the balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica. Pope Leo XIV made his first public appearance, addressing the crowd with “peace be with all of you.” He focused on peace everywhere and said, “Evil will not prevail; we are in the hands of God. Without fear, united with God and one another, we go forward.” He encouraged everyone to move forward with a missionary spirit to build bridges and to welcome everyone with open arms.

In a historic first, Cardinal Robert Prevost from the United States is now Pope Leo XIV. His choice of name reminds us of Pope Leo XIII, who served from 1878 to 1903. Pope Leo XIII published an encyclical on “Rerum Novarum” (Capital and Labour), which laid the foundation for modern Catholic Social Teaching. This encyclical championed the dignity of work, the rights of workers and justice for the marginalised. Leo XIII focused the Church’s concern on the suffering of many people, rather than just the privileged few. Many popes have continued to walk this path.

Pope Leo XIV - Robert Francis Prevost - from the Augustinian Order, spent nearly four decades ministering in one of the poorest regions of Peru, where many people are unemployed, and the infrastructure is inadequate. Both former Pope Francis and the new pope care deeply about helping ordinary people, especially the poor. The new pope is known for his humility and understanding of the needs of less fortunate people.

We celebrate the election of our new shepherd. Let us pray to Mother Mary, a model of humility and faith. Just as she responded to God’s call, may we respond to this moment with joy and open hearts. The Mother Church welcomes her new Holy Father and continues to guide us with care and truth. As her children, we move forward together under the protection of Mary, inspired by the legacy of the saints, and renewed in our mission to be a Church for the poor, by the poor, and with the poor.

Holy Mary, Mother of the Church,

pray for Pope Leo XIV and for all of us, your children.

Habemus Papam. Deo gratias!

GRATEFUL FOR THE GIFT OF THE PAPACY

Since 26 April 2025, our community at the Church of St. Thomas in Kuantan has gathered for the Novendiales- the nine days of mourning following Pope Francis’s death. We have been holding daily Memorial Masses, and praying for his soul. We will conclude this period of mourning on Sunday evening, 4 May 2025 - gathering at the grotto for the Rosary, led by our Parish Youth, to express our love and gratitude for Pope Francis's life and mission.

These days, I have been reflecting on Pope Francis’ encyclicals and key teachings in my homilies. His deep love for the Church, concern for our planet, compassion for the poor, and heartfelt devotion to Christ have truly inspired our faith journey. His legacy lives on in our everyday decisions to stay connected to the Church. While we feel sorrow over his passing, we are grateful for the gifts of his papacy.

 

Many of you have come faithfully, offering your time and hearts in the Church's prayers, the Rosary, Holy Hour, litanies, novenas and other forms of prayer. Your presence has been a testament to our unity as a parish family, and to the strength of our faith during times of loss and transition. Your faithfulness inspires me. A huge thank you to each of you who joined us for these nine days of prayer. However, our prayers don’t stop here – there is always more to come!

 

The College of Cardinals has requested the entire Church to pray for them, as they prepare for their sacred responsibility. We have been keeping the Cardinals in our thoughts and prayers as they get ready to gather in conclave, to elect the next successor of St. Peter. All 135 Cardinal electors – representing diverse nations and cultures across the globe – will enter the Conclave on 7 May 2025 at the Sistine Chapel, to choose the 267th Pontiff. Unfortunately, two Cardinals can’t make it this time due to health reasons - so there will be 133 voters participating. Let’s keep them all in our prayers.

The Church is currently in a period of transition: a mourning period following the passing of Pope Francis, and the dawn of a new pope. As we feel like sheep without a shepherd, let’s remember during this Easter season that Christ, our Risen Lord, is always with us. As we eagerly await the moment when our new Pope steps out onto the balcony of St. Peter’s to greet us all, let’s keep our spirits high and pray for the Holy Spirit to guide the Cardinals in choosing a leader after the Heart of Christ.

A LASTING TESTAMENT OF LOVE AND SERVICE

On Easter Monday, 21 April 2025, as the Church celebrated the Resurrection of Christ, heaven welcomed a humble and holy shepherd - Pope Francis, the 266th successor of St. Peter. Born Jorge Mario Bergoglio on 17 December 1936 in Buenos Aires, Argentina, he returned to his heavenly home at the age of 88. Elected on 13 March 2013, Pope Francis touched countless lives during his 12 remarkable years as Pope.

Pope Francis has truly been my favourite Pope, thus far! He was profoundly down-to-earth, deeply pastoral, and radically committed to the less fortunate. I have had the privilege of serving under three Popes: Saint Pope John Paul II (for 2 years), Pope Benedict XVI (for 8 years), and Pope Francis (for 12 years) and it is Pope Francis who has really touched my heart in a special way. His simplicity, authenticity and unwavering love for the marginalised made the Gospel come alive.

Pope Francis holds a special place in history as the first Jesuit Pope, the first from Latin America, and the first to adopt the name Francis, inspired by St. Francis of Assisi. This name truly reflects the significance of his papacy. He has always shown deep compassion for those often overlooked, such as the forgotten, the voiceless, and the broken. He instituted the World Day of the Poor and the World Day of the Elderly to remind the global Church to focus on assisting those in need. This year, we are excited to celebrate the 8th World Day of the Poor, which stands as a lasting testament to his vision and compassion!

I remember catching a glimpse of him from a distance, during a Wednesday General Audience in Rome on one of my pilgrimages. Although I never had a personal encounter, I felt his warmth. He radiated a vibrant spirit through the crowd. Pope Francis was not only a leader for 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide, but also a spiritual father to humanity. He championed environmental care, human fraternity, and synodality. His five major encyclicals shaped our understanding of faith and social justice. 

These teachings led the People of God to embrace faith in word and action, building bridges, healing wounds within families, and journeying together in synodality. Above all, Pope Francis was the brainchild behind the Synod of Synodality – a vision of the Church as communion, participation and mission. He called the Church to journey together, to listen deeply, and to recognise the Spirit at work in every person. He elevated the Church to new heights, not through power, but through humility - to journey together, to uplift the poor, and to love without borders.

He is the first Pope buried outside St. Peter’s Basilica, finding a peaceful resting place in St. Mary Major Basilica. This special choice reflected his love for Our Lady, and his closeness to the people, as it is the Marian sanctuary he often visited for quiet moments of prayer.

Rest in peace, Jorge Mario Bergoglio – Pope Francis. You truly were a shepherd who smelled like his sheep, and a disciple who followed in the footsteps of Christ.