 
Archive : February 2004
SHAH ALAM CHURCH IS READY!
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Shah Alam : At last, the Church of the Divine Mercy has been completed. However, the committee is waiting for the Certificate of Fitness (CF).
Situated on a 1.45 acres of land, work on the 2 1/2 storey building started on Dec 8, 2003. The blessing ceremony is expected to take place sometime this year. The church takes up about two thirds of the land and is fully air-conditioned. With a seating capacity for about 2,500, this new church is also disabled friendly with ramps and wide-open spaces for wheelchair bound persons. The statues and decorations in the church reflect the theme Divine Mercy, which is also the patronal name of the church. On the left side of the church is the shrine of the Divine Mercy while on the right of the church is the shrine of the Mother of Mercy. On the right side of the church is a prayer room with a glass opening to see the Sanctuary. Adjacent to the church is Wisma Divine Mercy, which will house the parish offices,
conference rooms and cafeteria. It also contains a hall complete with stage which can accommodate up to 1,000 persons. The hall will be used for parish activities - assemblies, seminars etc, as well as for private functions. The very high ceilings make it possible for the hall to be used as a badminton hall. A beautiful courtyard in the centre of the building with the grotto of Our Lady of Lourdes separates the church and Wisma Divine Mercy. There is a basement car park for cars and motorbikes. The basement also has two funeral parlours and a multipurpose room. This room, which can accommodate 100 persons, can be used as a formation or prayer room.- Herald
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WORLD SICK DAY OF THE SICK CELEBRATED AT OLL KLANG
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Klang : The World Day of the Sick was celebrated together with the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. More than 200 parishioners and pilgrims received the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. Those who were terminally ill were given the Lourdes Bath. During the Lourdes Bath, the pilgrims are taken to a special room and there clad only in a towel, they are bathed with water which has been brought in specially from Lourdes in France. The theme for this year's celebration was Home-coming and focused on the parable of the prodigal son. In his homily, parish priest Fr John Gnanapiragasam, spoke about Mother Mary and her faith in God. “For those who have faith no explanation is necessary; for those who do not have faith no explanation is possible”.
"The challenge for us today is if we can accept that science, technology and medicine can work miracles, then how much more our God, who created man and the universe that is used to make technology and medicine, work miracles," he said, Fr John also stressed on the importance of Mary's call to pray the rosary. `Pray the rosary as a prayer for peace’. During the celebration which commenced with a triduum on Feb 3, a special exhibition was held on the different apparitions of Our Lady. Various pictures and statues were exhibited for the viewing of parishioners and pilgrims. - By Jacelyn Johnson
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825 will be Baptised this Easter
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Petaling Jaya : In the Rite of Election held in the various dioceses a total of 825 catechumens were called to the Elect. In the diocese of Penang 128 catechumens from eight parishes in the Northern part of the diocese were presented to Bishop Antony Selvanayagam at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit on Feb 12. The following day, 92 catechumens from the parishes in the district of Perak were called to the elect at the Church of St Anthony in Teluk Intan. In the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, Archbishop Murphy Pakiam welcomed 496 catechumens during the Rite of Election at the Cathedral of St John on Feb 13. The Rite of Election for the Melaka district parishes was held on Feb 13 at the Church of St Francis Xavier, while the Rite of Election for the parishes in the district of Johor was held at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart on Feb 20. The diocese has recorded a total of 109 Elect who will be baptised this Easter.-Herald
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PENINSULAR MALAYSIA CHURCH COLLECTES RM1.3 MILLION FOR TSUNAMI
Petaling Jaya : The three dioceses of the Peninsular Malaysia Church have collected a sum of RM1.3 million for the Tsunami Disaster Fund.
• The Diocese of Penang collected RM325,000.00 and the money has been handed to the diocesan Office of Human Development (POHD).
• The Melaka-Johor diocese collected a total of RM317,624.81. The money was channeled through Perkumpulan Aloysius Semarang, a Jesuit Refugee Service in Banda Acheh.
• The Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur collected a total of RM680,114.72. The Catholic Welfare Services received a donation of RM100,000.00 from the Archdiocesan Chinese Language Apostolate Committee (ACLAC).
All monies collected, are channeled out for rebuilding devastated countries hit by the Tsunami.- Herald
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HUGE TURNOUT FOR EUCHARISTIC CONGRESS
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Seremban : In line with the theme for the year 2004, Eucharist - A Taste Of God, a Eucharistic Congress was held at the Church of the Visitation on Feb 15. The main objective of the congress was to promote greater awareness of the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. Close to 2500 parishioners from the various churches and chapels in the Negeri Sembilan district participated in the one-day congress which was conducted by several priests from the Kuala Lumpur archdiocese and the Melaka-Johor diocese. The Eucharistic celebration presided over by Archbishop Murphy Pakiam. In his homily, the archbishop emphasised that "the Church springs from the Eucharist". He urged the faithful to trust in the Lord and to cultivate a deep and personal friendship with Jesus. The Eucharistic Congress which commenced with a nine-hour vigil was a joint effort by all BECS, parish organizations and individuals. (Herald)
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FEAST DAY PILGRIMS REMINDED TO CARE FOR THE SICK
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Klang : The parish of Our Lady of Lourdes began its annual feast day celebrations on Feb 1 with the theme Come to the Table of Mercy. Pilgrims from far and near, people of other faiths as well as local parishioners filled the church throughout the five days to pay homage to Our Lady. Among the preachers were Frs Mari Arokiam, Philip Muthu, Frederick Joseph, John Anandan and David Reegon. On Saturday, Feb 14, Archbishop Emeritus Anthony Soter Fernandez presided over the Eucharist themed Broken and Poured for Love. This was followed by a procession and benediction. In his homily, Archbishop Fernandez preached on the institution of the Eucharist and the importance of caring for the sick. He urged the congregation to "pay attention to our sick brothers and sisters. Help others so that they maybe touched and the Lord may touch us". The procession at the end of the Mass was significant to the parishioners of the church as it was a spiritual journey as a community. (Herald)
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PRELIMINARY RESULTS OF THE CENSUS TAKING
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Petaling Jaya : The Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur conducted a census taking exercise on Jan 10 and 11. All baptised Catholics from the age of 12 and above were asked to complete a census card. Heads of families with children below the age of 12 indicated on their card the number of children they had. Based on the preliminary results of the census, 45 000 census cards were collected from all the parishes, chapels and mass centres. Statistics given by the National Statistics Departments states about 30 per cent of the population is below 12. That makes about 15 000 Catholics below the age of 12 in the archdiocese. However, the Catholic Directory shows that there are 99561 Catholics in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. (Herald)
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ST. THOMAS CHARITY CONCERT
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Kuantan : A Charity Concert in aid of the St Thomas Community Centre Building Fund was held on Feb 8 at the Hyatt Regency Hotel. The performers for the evening was Cecilia Yap, an accomplished soprano singer who was accompanied by Ng Chong Lim, an outstanding pianist. In his welcoming address St. Thomas parish priest, Fr. Eugene Benedict said that the people of Kuantan are indeed fortunate to have this golden opportunity to experience world-class music. Fr. Eugene also thanked the audience and the various sponsors for their generous support. He also acknowledged the efforts of the organising committee. Fund raising efforts for the St. Thomas Community Building commenced two years ago. The centre, which is expected to cost RM 3 million, will be sited within the church grounds. To date almost RM 1 million has been raised through numerous activities. (Herald)
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UITM CATHOLIC STUDENTS COORDINATE BAPTISM-CONFIRMATION MASS
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Klang : Eighteen students from two universities were baptised and confirmed at the Church of the Holy Redeemer on February 15. Eleven students were from UITM and seven from UPM. The celebration, which was coordinated by the students of UITM, Shah Alam began at 10.30 am with a thanksgiving dance performed by the students. The Eucharistic celebration was presided by Archbishop Emeritus Anthony Soter Fernandez who in his homily said, "There are many challenges that we face as Catholics. We must trust in the Lord who has given us choices.” Fr. Raymond Pereira, the parish priest of Holy Redeemer parish who addressed the congregation before the final blessing, said that he was glad to see the integration of various cultures in church and the BEC under one faith. In his address, Fr. Lawrence Andrew, SJ who is the campus minister of the Catholic Students Society of Shah Alam thanked Fr. Raymond, the RCIA Team of the Church of St. Francis Xavier, Petaling Jaya and BEC of Section 8, Shah Alam for their help
and support of the candidates and students. (Herald)
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FR. HENRIOT CELEBRATES 80TH BIRTHDAY
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Kuala Lumpur : The parishioners of the Church of the Good Shepherd in Setapak organised a birthday celebration for their beloved parish priest Fr. Antoine Henriot on Feb 13. The celebration for Fr. Henriot's 80th birthday commenced with a Eucharistic celebration themed A Priest Forever, followed by a dinner. More than 700 people comprising clergy, religious and laity attended the celebration. Among them were Archbishop Murphy Pakiam and Archbishop Emeritus Anthony Soter Fernandez and members of the French community. Also present were parishioners from Kajang and Kuantan, where Fr. Henriot had served in the past. Fr. Henriot also had the privilege of the presence of his brother and two sisters who had flown in all the way from France to be with him on his special day. (Herald)
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FIRST YEAR ANNIVERSARY JOY FOR FR. GEORGE PACKIASAMY
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Kuantan : Fr. George Packiasamy celebrated the first anniversary of his priestly ordination on Feb 12 with a thanksgiving Mass at the Church of St. Thomas. In his homily, Fr. George said that he has gained invaluable experience which has and continues to help him be a better person and priest. He added that prayers give him the sustaining grace as a priest. Fr. George expressed his thanks to the parish priest, Fr. Eugene Benedict for guiding him and helping him to prepare for his many years ahead in the priesthood. He also thanked the parishioners and asked them to continue praying for both the priests. (Herald)
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LOURDES BATH, BLESSING OF THE SICK ATTRACTS NON-CATHOLICS
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Klang : The World Day of the Sick was celebrated on Feb 14 at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. Some of the highlights of the celebration included the Lourdes Bath for the terminally ill and the blessing of the sick. A total of 310 people received anointing and blessing. Of these 293 were Catholics while the rest were people from other faiths including Hindus and Buddhists. Sixty terminally ill people were given the Lourdes Bath, including people of the other faiths. It was a spiritual journey for those who received anointing and blessing that day. They felt cleansed and relieved after the experience, surrendering their pain to the Lord. (Herald)
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SRI SERONOK RESIDENTS FETED TO A LION DANCE PERFORMANCE
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Cheras : Residents of the Sri Seronok Retirement Village were treated to a Lion Dance performance recently. Seen enjoying the performance with the other residents was Archbishop Emeritus Anthony Soter Fernandez. The Sri Seronok Retirement Village is run by the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. It caters for retires above the age of 55 and is suitable for elderly marries couples, retired priest and religious. The independent-styled village which aims to foster and maintain a sense of dignity among the elderly is located adjacent to the Little Sisters of the Poor Home for the Aged in Cheras. (Herald)
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FMM SISTERS CELEBRATE 50 YEARS
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Petaling Jaya : The Franciscan Missionaries of Mary (FMM) celebrated the 50th anniversary of their mission in Malaysia/Singapore with a Eucharistic celebration on Feb. 7. Archbishop Murphy Pakiam presided at the Mass held at the Church of the Assumption. In attendance were 15 priests from the Kuala Lumpur, Petaling Jaya and Klang districts. In his homily Archbishop Pakiam thanked the Sisters for bringing their compassion to the Church. The theme of the celebration Collaboration was highlighted when just before the liturgy of the Eucharist, the FMM nuns, lay collaborators and two members of the clergy set that altar table. Sr. Assunta Leong, FMM provincial expressed her gratitude to the clergy and lay collaborators. A fellowship was held after the celebration. (Herald)
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NEW PRIEST CELEBRATES FIRST MASS AT HOME PARISH
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Kuala Lumpur : Newly ordained Fr. George Harrison returned to his home parish of the Church of St. Anthony to celebrate his first Mass on Feb. 3. Concelebrating with Fr. Harrison was Fr. Michael Chua who was ordained together with him at the Cathedral of St. John on Feb. 2. Also present at the Eucharist was parish administrator, Fr. Jestus Pereira, Fr. Mari Arokiam, Fr. A. Amalanathan, Fr. Philip Muthu and Fr. Simon Labrooy. Making reference to the day's Gospel
about the woman who was cured of a 12-year ailment after she touched Jesus' cloak, Fr. Harrison said that we too must remain patient and continue to pray for God's mercy. He explained that sometimes our prayers are answered instantly, at other times after a while and sometimes never. “It depends on our faith and we should never give up hope that easily,” he said. Since it was also Fr. Chua's birthday, the congregation and other celebrants sang him a birthday song. In his address at the end of the celebration, Fr. Jestus thanked God for the gift of the new priests and urged the parishioners to pray for more vocations. A fellowship was held in the church grounds after the Mass. (Herald)
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TRAINING CENTRES FOR SPM BIBLE KNOWLEDGE TEACHERS
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Petaling Jaya : Four teacher-training centres for the SPM Bible Knowledge classes have been set up in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. "With the setting up of these centres, we envisage that parishes will have an adequate number of SPM Bible Knowledge teachers," said G. Anthony, the coordinator of the SPM Bible Knowledge programme for the archdiocese. "We want to produce a pool of teachers and not depend on just one or two persons. It is also hoped that these teachers will then train others. "Within the last two years, many of these graduates have helped their students get distinctions for the SPM Bible Knowledge," he said. Anthony explained that at present, a total of 16 parishes have set up the Bible Knowledge class. Another four parishes are also planning to set up classes in the near future. Parishes interested in starting the SPM Bible Knowledge programme can contact G. Anthony (012-6666246) or Ms Josephine of the Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre (03-20266442). (Herald)
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CAPUCHIN FRIARS ESTABLISH CUSTODY IN MALAYSIA-SINGAPORE
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Cheras : After nearly 50 years of existence in Malaysia, the Orders of Friars Minor Capuchin (OFM Caps) was officially established as the Custody of the Franciscan Capuchins of Malaysia-Singapore. The official decree of establishment was read out by the Capuchin General Definitor, Fr. Joseph Nacua of the Philippines during the special Eucharistic celebration held at the Church of St. Francis of Assisi on Feb. 11. Fr. Nacua also announced the appointment of Friar Michael Raymond as the Major Superior of the new Custody and Friars David Reegon and Paul Cheong as the First and Second Councillors respectively. Present to witness the auspicious occasion was the Capuchin Minister General from Rome, Fr. John Corriveau; Archbishop Murphy Pakiam, Archbishop Emeritus Soter Fernandez and Capuchin representatives from Tamil Nadu, Philippines and Korea. (Herald)
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STAND OUT AS CATHOLIC LAWYERS BY LIVING YOUR FAITH
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Kuala Lumpur : "How are Catholic lawyers any different from good lawyers who do not profess our faith and who also practise justice? Or are you no different?" This was the query put forth by Bishop Paul Tan, SJ to the Catholic lawyers during their Annual Votive Mass of the Holy Spirit on Feb. 7. "Surely your faith in Jesus Christ should colour your profession indeed your entire life. St. Thomas Moore, your patron saint was a shining example of how his faith permeated his life, oozed out and penetrated his profession that led to his martyrdom because he dared to oppose the king," said Bishop Tan to the forty or so lawyers gathered at the Cathedral of St. John. Concelebrating at the Eucharist was Vicar
General Msgr. Daniel Lim, the Catholic Lawyer's Ecclesiastical Assistant, Fr. O.C. Lim, SJ and Fr. A. Amalanathan. Among the guests who attended the Red Mass were the Ambassadors of Belgium and Croatia, the consular representative from Poland, religious congregations and representatives from Catholic lay organisations. A fellowship tea was held after the Mass. (Herald)
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SHAH ALAM CHURCHES ORGANISE CHRISTIAN UNITY SERVICE
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Shah Alam : Eight denominational churches came together for a Christian Unity Service on Feb. 4. Organised by the Association of Shah Alam Churches (ASAC), the Christian Unity Service which was organised for the second consecutive year was held at the New Life Restoration Centre. Themed May They Be One, the service which comprised praise and worship, scripture reading, homily, petitions and prayers was conducted in English, Mandarin and Tamil. In his homily, Fr. Raymond Pereira, the pro-tem chairperson of ASAC called on all Christians to live in harmony. He urged them to overcome disunity through dialogue and have a willingness to learn from each other. The service which was attended by close to 300 people, ended with a potluck fellowship. ASAC was formed on Nov. 6 2002 to encourage inter-denominational fellowship, promote unity among Christians and to discuss issues affecting churches in Shah Alam. (Herald)
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FR. FELIX MICHAEL LAID TO REST
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Kuala Lumpur : Bishops, clergy and laity from various dioceses attended the funeral Mass of Fr. Felix Michael at the Church of Our Lady of Fatima on Feb. 6. Sixty-three year old Fr. Felix, who is originally from the Penang Diocese, passed away on Feb. 4. Archbishop Emeritus Anthony Soter Fernandez who gave the eulogy said that Fr. Felix loved his priesthood and lived for his priesthood. “His two great qualities were his fidelity and fortitude. He was faithful in celebrating the Eucharist daily and endured trials that often came his way”. Fr. Felix was laid to rest at the Cheras cemetery. (Herald)
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ADHERE TO ALL DIRECTIVES AND GUIDELINES, ARCHBISHOP INSTRUCTS NEWLY ORDAINED PRIESTS
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Kuala Lumpur : Newly ordained Frs. George Harrison and Michael Chua were reminded of their duties and obligations as priests of the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. Archbishop Murphy Pakiam made this gentle but firm reminder during the duos ordination, which took place at the Cathedral of St. John on Feb 2. Addressing Revs. George and Michael during the Rite of Ordination, Archbishop Pakiam advised them to apply their energies to the duty of teaching in the name of Christ, the chief Teacher. He emphasized that as priests of the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, they are to ensure that their pastoral initiatives are in line with the vision and mission of the Peninsular Malaysian Church. Archbishop Pakiam instructed them to adhere to all the directives and guidelines set down by the Church and in particular by the archdiocese. He also stressed the need for them to be obedient to the bishop and to be one with the presbyterate. (Herald)
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BIG TURNOUT AT DOUBLE ORDINATION
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Klang : The Cathedral of St. John in Bukit Nanas was packed to capacity, as two deacons were ordained to the priesthood. Hundreds of people had come from near and far to witness the ordination of Revs. George Harrison and Michael Chua on Feb 2. Being a public holiday, the cathedral was well filled up an hour before the 10 am ordination with many having to stand throughout the Eucharistic celebration. Coming in full force were the parishioners of the Church of St. Anthony and the Church of the Assumption, the home parishes of the duo. Also present were parishioners from the East Coast as well as those from the North where the duo had undergone their pastoral experience. The newly ordained priests thanked all the parishioners who had come from near and far to be with them on their special day. A lunch and fellowship was held at the church grounds after the celebration. (Herald)
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CATHOLIC URGED TO WORK TOGETHER FOR THE CHURCH
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Petaling Jaya : Archbishop Murphy Pakiam has called on Catholics of all races to live in harmony and work together for the Church in Malaysia. Archbishop Pakiam said this during the Archdiocesan Chinese Language Apostolate Committee (ACLAC) Chinese New Year celebration dinner which was held at the St. Ignatius Church multi-purpose hall on Feb. 1. He pointed out that the Chinese-speaking community were fortunate to be able to express their Catholic faith in their own language and culture. Welcoming the presence of the clergy and laity at the dinner, Fr. Martin Larn, ACLACs Ecclesiastical Assistant said that the season of Chinese New Year is a time for reunion and to be reconciled with one another. The chairperson of ACLAC, Francis Moo thanked Archbishop Pakiam for his decision to send the Chinese speaking youth to Taiwan for their priestly formation. Moo gave the assurance that ACLAC will work harder to promote diocesan vocations. (Herald)
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PRESENCE OF RELIGIOUS IS ESSENTIAL IN THE LIFE OF THE CHURCH
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Kuala Lumpur : The World Day of Consecrated Life was highlighted by Archbishop Murphy Pakiam during the ordination of Frs. George Harrison and Michael Chua on Feb 2. Archbishop Pakiam thanked the religious for their presence and support at the ordination and said that the presence of the religious brothers and sisters is essential in the life of the Church. The archbishop said that the presence of the religious in the archdiocese is an invaluable contribution to the Church at large. "The Church consists of sinners - people like you and me. It is from among us that God chooses some of us to be his special witnesses," said Archbishop Pakiam. He added that the Church needs the consecrated people. They are the religious who by their examples pave the way for young people to embrace the evangelical way of life as priests and religious. At present there are 14 religious congregations in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. (Herald)
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ASSUMPTION LAUNCH YOUTH MINISTRY WITH ‘BLAZE CRAZE’
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Petaling Jaya : January 31 marked the official launch of the Assumption Youth Ministry (AYM). Blaze Craze was the theme for the night. Held at the Assumption Family House, nearly 70 youths aged from 13 to 19 attended the event. Blaze Craze began at about 6.30 pm with ice breaking games. This helped the crowd get comfortable and familiar with each other. AYM's Coordinator, Priscilla Sriram; Advisor, Egbert Lopez and Assistant Parish Priest of Assumption, Fr. Simon Labrooy made opening addresses. In his opening, Fr. Simon pointed out to the youths the importance of being part of a group and the role and impact a youth group such as AYM can have upon the life of individual youths. The element of fire that was part of the main theme for the night proved to be deeply symbolic. This element was chosen to point out to the youths that as useful and helpful as it is for us, it can be equally destructive if not handled responsibly. AYM has devised specific categories within their ministry
such as dance, music, acting, administration and media, in which youths may choose to serve. (Herald)
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ARCHBISHOP EMERITUS FERNANDEZ NOW RESIDING AT SRI SERONOK
Kuala Lumpur : Archbishop Emeritus Soter Fernandez has taken residence at the Sri Seronok Retirement Village. The archbishop emeritus who was formerly residing at Cardijn House in Bukit Nanas, moved into his new residence on Jan 19, so as to be closer to Archbishop Emeritus Dominic Vendargon who is residing at the Little Sisters of the Poor (LSP) Home for the Aged in Cheras. The retirement village is adjacent to the LSP Home. Archbishop Emeritus Fernandez, who is the President of the Malaysian Catechetical Commission, continues to function from his office at Cardijn House during the day as well as attend meetings and functions. Emeritus Fernandez had envisioned a retirement village based on the theme of ‘community' in line with the pastoral priority of the local Church. (Herald)
Those wishing to contact Archbishop Emeritus Fernandez may do so at:
Sri Seronok Retirement Village
No. 2, Jalan 4/96
Jalan Sekuci Taman Sri Bahtera
Jalan Cheras
56000 Kuala Lumpur
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VILLA DOMINIC OPEN FOR BOOKINGS
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Petaling Jaya : Those searching for new places to conduct camps, formations or retreats may want to consider Villa Dominic which is now open for bookings. Situated in the cool and picturesque Genting Highlands, this retreat centre is wholly owned and operated by the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur. There are three types of accommodation available at Villa Dominic: dormitories and single rooms with three-beds and four-beds respectively. Competitively priced, the dormitories cost only RM 1O per person. The shared rooms cost RM 50 per person (for triple sharing) while the charges for the four-bed room is at RM 60 per person. All charges are at a per night basis. The centre can accommodate up to 100 persons at one given time. Catered meals are also provided at the centre. One can get six meals a day at a cost of only RM 19 per person. For more information or booking enquiries, please call 03-20788828. (Herald)
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LAY PERSON OBTAINS DOCTORATE IN CATECHETICS
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Petaling Jaya : The Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur sponsored a layperson, Steven Selvaraju to do his doctorate in Theology with Specialisation in Catechetics and Youth Ministry. He obtained a Licentiate in Theology with Specialisation Catechetics and Youth Ministry from the Salesian Pontifical University in 2000. He graduated with a summa cum laude. In Oct 2001, Steven commenced studies for a doctorate in catechetics at the same university in Rome. His dissertation was entitled, The Parish Community and the Adult Cathecumenate: A theological-empirical-critical and projectual study on community participation in the local church of Peninsular Malaysia. He presented and defended his dissertation on Dec 16, 2003. Steven graduated with a summa cum laude. (Herald)
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OUR LADY OF LOURDES PREPARE FOR TWO CELEBRATIONS
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Klang : Preparations are under way to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Lourdes and the World Day of Sick at the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes. In conjunction with the celebration this year, the parish is placing special emphasis on children. As a preliminary activity to the feast day celebrations, the statue of Our Lady of Lourdes is being taken around to all the BECs of the parish, where it will be kept in some homes for 24 hours. During this time, BEC members will gather for Bible sharing and rosary sessions. The daily novena and masses will commence on Feb 11 and the main celebration will be held on Sat. Feb 14 with the Eucharist, procession and benediction. The World Day of the Sick will also be celebrated on the same day. There will be special masses throughout the morning with the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick, and a Lourdes Bath for the sick. (Herald)
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DOUBLE ORDINATION
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Kuala Lumpur : The Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur will be blessed with two new priests following the double ordination of Rev. Michael Chua and Rev. George Harrison on Feb 2, 2004. The ordinations which are the first in the archdiocese for the year 2004, will take place at the Cathedral of St. John in Bukit Nanas at 10.00 am. The duo have chosen for their ordination the theme, “My grace is sufficient for you.” Fr. Michael Chua, 37 is from the Church of the Assumption in Petaling Jaya. A gifted composer, Fr. Michael’s pastoral concerns include catechetics and the ministry for the deaf. Fr. George Harrison is a parishioner of the Church of St. Anthony in Kuala Lumpur. Fr. George credits his parents, for instilling in him the importance of God and also the priests, who played their part in deepening his call to the priesthood. (Herald)
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DECREASING DISTANCE BETWEEN GOD AND HUMANKIND
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Klang : Confirmants and RCIA candidates learned to decrease the distance between God and humankind during a Life in the Spirit Seminar (LSS). The LSS, which was organised by the Single Adults Fellowship, helped the 60 participants assure and reconfirm their faith life before they receive the sacrament later this year. Held at the La Salle Formation Centre, some of the sessions included topics on God's Love, New Life, Salvation, Transformation, Inner Healing and Parent-Child Relationship. A session for parents was one of the main highlights of the programme. This session aimed to bridge the communication gap between parent and child. It was also a channel where both parent and child could open up to each other through a letter-writing sequel. Throughout the activities and sessions, the participants were very expressive, open and actively involved. It was indeed a fruitful and fun experience for the participants. (Herald)
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BAHASA MALAYSIA APOSTOLATE ORGANISES FELLOWSHIP
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Cheras : The Bahasa Malaysia Apostolate of St. Francis of Assisi (SFA) organized a Christmas cum New Year fellowship on Jan 11. In his speech, the Chairperson of the Bahasa Malaysia Apostolate of SFA, Mr. Nicholas Panjangau, thanked all those who had been involved in the BM RCIA. He informed that 12 catechumens went through the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults in November 2003. Students from Universiti Malaya, Universiti Putra Malaysia and Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia as well as members of the Bahasa Malaysia group from the Church of St. Anthony were also present at the fellowship. Fr. Valentine Gompok OFM Cap, advisor of the Bahasa Malaysia Apostolate of SFA, introduced the members of the apostolate to all present. He then presented gifts to the catechumens. During the fellowship, the university students performed a series of action songs and invited those present to join in the performance. (Herald)
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ELDER’S CLUB GIVE TO THE LESS FORTUNATE
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Petaling Jaya : The Elder's Club of Assumption Church raised RM 2, 500 for the less fortunate during a raffle draw. The Orang Asli Settlement in Tampin received RMI, 500. The remaining RM I, 000 were shared among the House of Mercy, Bukit Beruntung; Mdm. Daphne Dayont and the Welcome Community (HIV/AIDS) Centre. The cheques were presented during a Christmas gathering on Dec 22, 2003. Present at this gathering was Y. B. Dato Lim Thuang Seng, the State Assembly Member for Bukit Gasing. Y. B. Dato Lim also distributed goodie bags to all present. (Herald)
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