CULTIVATING VOCATIONS IN THE JUBILEE YEAR

Since the establishment of our Parish, we have been blessed by the vocation of the late Monsignor Anthony Thomas - the only priest from our community. His unwavering dedication and service have left a profound legacy that inspires us all. In the 1990s, our community also celebrated the vocation of Sr. Angeline Gnapargasam, FMDM, who courageously answered God’s call to religious life. However, since then, we have not witnessed any young men or women from our Parish coming forward to embrace the priesthood or religious life.

Yet, there is hope! Today, we have so many young boys and girls serving at the altar. I can truly sense the seeds of potential vocation in these young hearts - that they may hear God’s whisper about their own future vocation!

However, these seeds of faith need some loving care. As a parish community, we all have an important part to play in nurturing and encouraging vocations. Parents, especially, hold a unique position in this journey. Your support, encouragement, and prayer can truly make a big difference. The idea of a son becoming a priest, or a daughter entering religious life can seem daunting - but it is a profound blessing. The Church needs caring shepherds, and the world needs more witnesses of God’s love and mercy. 

The journey to priesthood or religious life does not happen overnight; it requires discernment, encouragement, guidance, and the witness of faith-filled role models. As I reflect on my own 22-year journey in the priesthood, I am filled with deep gratitude to God for this precious gift. Like any vocation, it has been a path marked by countless blessings, challenges, and opportunities for growth. Throughout these years, I have been sustained by my commitment to live out my motto: “To Live A Life of Love” (2 John 6). This love - rooted in Christ - strengthens me each day, and I pray that the young people of our Parish will one day experience the same joy in responding to God’s call. 

That is why, as a parish, we must nurture and encourage vocations with hope and trust. Let us be a community that prays, supports, and accompanies those who are discerning their vocation so that they, too, may experience the beauty of a life dedicated to God.

As we pray for vocations this month, let’s invite the Holy Spirit to guide our young ones and our whole community. We can have faith that God is still calling - and with our prayers and support - new vocations will arise right here in our Parish, continuing the legacy of Monsignor Anthony Thomas. Let’s make our Parish a fertile ground for vocations to grow and thrive - especially during this special Jubilee Year!

Let us journey together in faith and hope, believing that the Lord of the harvest will send dedicated labourers to nurture growth in His vineyard.