GUIDE OUR HEARTS TOWARDS REPENTANCE

As we journey through Lent, we are called to examine our lives, and eliminate anything that hinders our relationship with Christ. Now that we have reached the midpoint of Lent, it is an appropriate time to pause, reflect, and refocus. The Lord reminds us, “Listen to My voice… pay attention to Me…, make corrections, be sincere…” (cf. Jeremiah 7:23-28).

In the busyness of life, distractions - whether excessive screen time, material attachments, unhealthy habits, or toxic relationships - can easily divert us from what truly matters. Let us be mindful and intentional in overcoming these challenges together, renewing our focus on God. Let’s try to remain aware and prepared, to tackle these challenges as they arise.

This second-half of Lent is a wonderful time to reflect on the renewal of faith, forgiveness, and a change of heart towards God. Many of us choose to step back from distractions that can hinder our spiritual journey. So, let us take a moment to ask ourselves: have we truly let go of the things that prevent us from connecting with God? If we have strayed from our commitments, let us use this time to reassess our dedication, and strengthen our bond with Him!

Laetare Sunday offers a beautiful reminder that even in the face of challenges, joy is just around the corner, with Easter approaching! As spring revitalises nature, we are encouraged to open our hearts to the joy that comes from celebrating Christ’s resurrection. If your Lenten journey has been difficult, don’t feel discouraged! Instead, see it as an opportunity to renew your commitment to walk with Christ.

As we continue our Lenten practices of fasting, prayer, and self-discipline - let us listen attentively to the voice of the Lord, and allow Him to guide our hearts toward repentance and deeper spiritual renewal. Let us take this time to show each other sincerity, respect, understanding and mutual support through our prayers and acts of charity that strengthen our faith community. 

As March comes to an end, let us reflect once again on the Pope’s intention for this month: Families in Crisis. Many families are facing challenges and hardships in today’s society. Let us use our spiritual practices - whether through prayer or acts of compassion- as tools to strengthen our relationships, and provide healing to those who need it most. Let's work together to build resilience and unity during these difficult times.

As Easter approaches - bringing with it the joyful promise of renewal and hope - may we grow in faith, refresh our hearts and strengthen our commitment to living in the love of Christ. Let’s embrace this special time together!

MERCY AND LOVE ARE BOUNDLESS

On Sunday, 16 March 2025, the Archdiocesan Catholic Prison Ministry (ACPM) of Kuala Lumpur organised a Lenten outreach with two events to support the families of prisoners and those on parole. These initiatives truly reflect Christ’s call to care for the needy - reminding us of His words: “I was in prison, and you came to visit me” (Matthew 25:36). It is all about fostering kindness and support!

Our first event, the Jalinan-Kasih Program (Bonds of Love Programme), was held at the Kajang Hall from 12.00 noon to 5.00 pm, which was aimed at supporting the families of prisoners. We truly understand the emotional and financial challenges they face, so our ACPM volunteers organised this heartfelt gathering filled with love, support, and encouragement. It was a special day for the wives, parents, children, siblings, relatives and close friends of the incarcerated individuals, and we welcomed everyone with open arms!

The event provided a wonderful opportunity for families to come together, share their stories, and find comfort in a supportive community that truly understands their experiences. It was a heartwarming gathering filled with joy, featuring a delicious meal, inspiring speeches, and lively musical performances. Some families came on their own, while others had transportation arranged for their convenience.

Each family received essential provisions like grocery hampers, clothing and other daily necessities. About 80 individuals attended - with 20 dedicated volunteers and leaders who worked tirelessly to make this event a success. Through this initiative, ACPM aimed to emphasise that no one should feel abandoned and that the love of Christ unites us, even in tough times.

At 6.30 pm that same evening, ACPM organised a Majlis Berbuka Puasa (Iftar Ceremony) with parolees at the Hulu Langat Halfway Home in Kajang. It was a special occasion, marking the very first-time ACPM held this kind of outreach during the holy month of Ramadan. This special event fostered interfaith dialogue and mutual respect among participants.

The Majlis Berbuka Puasa was attended by 70 parolees, five Halfway Home (Rumah Perantaraan) officers, priests and volunteers from ACPM. It was an evening of spiritual reflection - where individuals from various walks of life came together in a spirit of compassion and fraternity. Before breaking our fast, we took a moment for prayer - focusing on unity, gratitude and hope for new beginnings for the parolees. To express our appreciation, the organising team distributed care packages filled with toiletries, clothing and towels for the parolees. The ACPM team and Halfway Home officers exchanged gifts - signifying the start of a new partnership in restorative justice.

This Lenten outreach represented a significant milestone for ACPM - bringing joy, healing and renewed relationships. It emphasised that mercy and love are boundless and that simple acts of kindness reflect the heart of Christ. Motivated by this success, ACPM intends to expand its outreach programmes in the coming years - ensuring dignity and care for those often overlooked.

Let us keep our brothers and sisters - both the imprisoned, and their families - in our thoughts and prayers, so that they may find strength, hope and reconciliation in their journey through life.

TRUST IN GOD’S GREATER PLAN

Earlier this week, I was disconcerted and mourned the passing of four extraordinary women who dedicated their lives to their families and the Church. I have had the pleasure of knowing them for many years. Their strong faith and service have left an indelible mark on our Church community and families. Reflecting on their lives reminds me of the beautiful qualities of sacrifice, devotion, and the power of prayer.

Each of these women represented a unique aspect of faith and determination. One dedicated herself wholeheartedly to the Church - especially in women’s ministry and supporting the poor. Another was a pious teacher and mother - firm in instilling discipline and moral values in her own children and students. The third woman was a pillar for the Indigenous community - ensuring that the seed of faith grew and flourished among generations of her village. The last was a loving and enduring mother - whose quiet strength and sacrifice really showed her deep love and care for her children and grandchildren.

Despite the challenges they faced, their faith consistently uplifted them. They carried hearts overflowing with love, listened intently to those in need, and were always ready to lend a helping hand. Each experienced tough times and disappointments, yet their commitment never wavered. They discovered unique ways to share their witness to Christ each day.

Their faith brings to mind the story of Hannah. In her moments of deep sorrow and distress, she turned to God and poured out her heart in prayer, saying, “I am a woman deeply troubled... I have been pouring out my soul before the Lord” (1 Samuel 1:15). Just like Hannah, these four amazing women faced their own challenges, yet they stayed strong in spirit, prayer, and trust in the Lord. Their prayers were fervent, and their commitment never wavered. They truly understood that true strength comes from God and that they could positively impact their lives and communities through prayer and dedication! May the souls of these women rest in peace, and may their legacy inspire and shine in the hearts of those they have touched - as well as others - to live lives of love, service and prayer.

This March, Pope Francis invites us to pray for families in crisis. Many families today encounter division, struggle and brokenness. In our Church, we have placed broken flower pots, stones, dry leaves and branches before the altar – symbols of our struggles and brokenness. Yet, these elements are wrapped in beautiful purple and gold cloth. The purple represents Lent - a time for renewal, while the gold reminds us of the Jubilee Year of Hope - a wonderful call from God for forgiveness, reconciliation and healing. The ray of light surrounding the wrapped cloth represents hope.

Let us embrace this opportunity for hope and become a source of healing through our own struggles and disappointments. As we welcome this special season of Lent and the Jubilee Year, let’s reach out for reconciliation, offer love, and remain steadfast in our faith - trusting in God’s greater plan for all of us!

A WONDERFUL SEASON OF GRACE

On Ash Wednesday - the beginning of Lent - Saint Paul reminds us that, "now is the favourable time” (2Cor 6:2). We received ash on our foreheads, symbolising humility, and the call to repent. During these forty days, we have the opportunity to return to the Lord wholeheartedly, just as the prophet Joel urged: “Come back to me with all your heart.” Even when our lives get busy and distracting, God is always there, longing for us to turn back to Him. His love shows in how He meets us on this journey, showering us with kindness and compassion, and guiding us step by step. 

The Church invites all Catholics to solemnly observe these forty days through prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. 

a)              Prayer – Building a strong friendship with God takes time and effort, just like any other relationship! Lent is a wonderful opportunity for us to dedicate some extra time in prayer and grow spiritually. It is important to communicate with God and listen to Him as He speaks to us through Scripture. On Ash Wednesday, it was so heartwarming to see all our churches filled with parishioners, coming together for Mass, even though it was not obligatory. Why not make a commitment to come for Sunday Mass – a holy day of obligation? Let’s fill those pews together!

 

b)             Fasting – is more than just skipping meals; true fasting goes even deeper. It presents an opportunity to reflect on what distracts us from God, such as spending excessive time on social media, too much screen time, or unhealthy habits we may have adopted. Additionally, it involves taking a break from gossip, negative talk and indulgent behaviour. By doing this, we create extra space in our hearts for God’s grace to flow in. So, let’s embrace fasting as a way to reconnect and refocus on what truly matters!

 

c)              Almsgiving – Lent is an excellent time to embrace generosity! It involves more than just giving money. It is also about sharing our kindness, time, and compassion with others. Assisting those in need reflects our gratitude for all the blessings we have received. Moreover, when we practice small acts of kindness each day, we are reminded that our love for God goes hand in hand with loving one another. Let’s spread the joy together!

As imperfect individuals, we are fortunate to be cared for by a God who is tender, compassionate, patient, and overflowing with grace. Lent is a wonderful season of grace, and a perfect time for us to refocus our hearts, and journey back to God with openness and sincerity. This season offers us an opportunity to refresh our spiritual journey with determination and commitment. 

Let us approach God with a steadfast spirit, knowing that when Easter arrives, we will not only celebrate a significant event but also experience a true transformation of the heart.

OPPORTUNITY FOR RENEWAL AND CONVERSION

In his Lenten Message for 2025, Pope Francis invites us to join him on a spiritual journey with the theme “Let us Journey Together in Hope.” This theme connects with the celebration of the Jubilee Year, which is all about being “Pilgrims of Hope.” The Pope’s message unfolds in three key points:

     a)    Journeying in Faith

First, Pope Francis encourages us to view life as a pilgrimage, similar to the Israelites' journey from slavery to the Promised Land. He urges us to reflect on our faith journey and warns against stagnation caused by fear or sin. Lent is a time for conversion, inviting us to leave behind harmful behaviours and strengthen our deeper relationship with God. He also highlights the challenges faced by modern migrants and refugees, reminding us of the struggles the Israelites encountered. This prompts us to consider our own lives and find ways to lend a helping hand to those in need. 

b)    Journeying Together As A Community

Secondly, he emphasises the importance of journeying together as a community. The Pope highlights that Christians should not walk alone but remain united in faith and love. He encourages a spirit of synodality, where we support one another and move away from self-centeredness. It is a call for all of us – whether bishops, priests, religious, or laypeople – to consider how to build community instead of causing division. True discipleship means opening our hearts to others, especially those who might feel marginalised.

c) Journeying With Hope in God’s Promise

Finally, Pope Francis speaks about journeying in hope, firmly grounded in the profound reality of the Resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. He invites us to take a moment to reflect on our trust in God’s mercy and promises. Hope should not be passive; instead, it should inspire us to take meaningful actions that promote justice, community, and care for our beautiful planet.

Let us entrust this journey to Mary, Mother of Hope, praying that she may guide us as we prepare to celebrate the joy of Easter.

An Extract from the Lenten Message 2025 of Pope Francis

This year, our Lenten journey coincides with two special months for our Muslim friends: Ramadhan, a time for fasting and spiritual renewal, and Shawwal, which celebrates Hari Raya Aidilfitri, marking the end of fasting. As they focus on fasting and renewal, we, too, embrace Lent through fasting, penance, and almsgiving, leading to the meaningful celebrations of Holy Week and the Paschal Triduum. This shared journey emphasises our spiritual renewal and deepens our understanding of each other’s faith.

This Lenten season is a special time for experiencing grace, especially during this Jubilee Year of Hope. It offers a perfect opportunity for renewal and conversion as we embrace the amazing outpouring of God’s mercy. Let’s walk this journey together, holding onto hope and trusting in God’s grace to celebrate Easter with refreshed hearts!