The Church of the Divine Mercy (CDM) in Shah Alam opened its doors, and hearts for two weeks of Missional Formation led by the Redemptorist Fathers (CSsR). This mission wasn’t just a series of talks and liturgies; it was a spiritual encounter that stirred the soul of the parish. From zone Masses and youth sessions to deep reflections with BECs and ministry leaders, the week served as a powerful call to return to the core of the Church’s mission: to evangelise with compassion, courage and joy.
What made this formation week so special wasn’t just the presence of the Redemptorists it was the unity it created among our diverse communities, age groups and ministries. Through prayer, teaching and fellowship, parishioners were reminded that being Catholic isn’t just about belonging to a Church; it’s about being sent from it, with purpose and hope.
Here are some heartfelt reflections from the Redemptorist Fathers who led the mission and participants of the formation.
Testimonies from the Redemptorist Mission Team
It has been a true joy to journey with the parishioners of CDM, reflecting together on how we can more deeply celebrate, listen and walk as Pilgrims of Hope. I am deeply inspired by the passion and thirst of this community to grow in faith and respond actively to the Spirit’s call. The warmth and genuine smiles of everyone I’ve encountered here are a powerful testimony that the vision of being Pilgrims of Hope is not just an ideal – but a living reality in this parish.
A heartfelt thank you to Fr George Harrison, whose generous hospitality and vibrant pastoral spirit reveal him to be a true shepherd – one who carries the unmistakable “smell of the sheep” and walks closely with his people.
Rev. Fr. Terence Wee CSsR
This was my first Redemptorist mission as a newly ordained missionary priest. Interacting with the wide array of parishioners especially the altar servers and the youth was a faith experience for me. The young people are so passionate about finding meaning in their faith journey, and it was truly a blessing to accompany them on this quest. Working with the altar servers – witnessing their enthusiasm and desire to understand their role at the altar, not just as a task but as a ministry – gave me great hope for the future of this parish and the Church at large. The different language interactions and sharing in my mother tongue, praying and reflecting reminded me how faith reaches across age, background and experience.
For now, as I say goodbye to CDM, I carry with me the smiles, stories and prayers of the many people I had the privilege of meeting. This mission has reminded me once again that ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ is not just a theme – it is a way of living, walking together in faith and lifting one another up in Christ.
Rev. Fr. Antony Prabhu CSsR
I thank and praise God for the wonderful parish mission that has just concluded, giving everyone joyful Hope. The parish mission helped us look at the importance of having an encounter with God and with others. I thank Fr. George Harrison for inviting the Redemptorist missionaries to walk, listen and celebrate the beautiful Jubilee Year of the Hope as pilgrims on a spiritual journey. The zone masses were inspiring because you shared your most memorable moments and unforgettable encounters with the Lord.
The Church of the Divine Mercy is a very vibrant and spiritual parish. I was swept away by the music in the liturgy and the participation of parishioners at every celebration of the Eucharist. Thank you for your hospitality and support in helping us carry out our mission successfully. We hope to be with you again sooner than the next Jubilee. Keep us in your prayers as we will do the same for you. Ribuan terima kasih!
Rev. Fr. Patrick Massang CSsR
Testimony from Bro. Philip: A Journey in Vocation
It was an amazing experience as I journeyed with the Redemptorist priests conducting the two-week Missional Formation at CDM. Especially memorable were our interaction as we journeyed, together with parish priest Fr George Harrison, to the BEC Zone masses. It was inspiring for me to witness the people’s faith experience and the celebration of the liturgy outside of church. I also saw how formations were carried out tailored to the needs of the people and in different environments. Each zone came together enthusiastically and worked as a family in Christ. It was enriching and uplifting.
The various sessions at the church were also thoughtfully tailored to the various ministries and groups, ensuring that everyone was reached. Being present at these sessions made me more aware of what it means to be part of the pilgrim Church.”
These two weeks have been a blessing. I have grown through their sharing and the wisdom they imparted.
Bro. Philip Asirwalam
Testimonies from the Language Ministries
Attending this formation has truly been an eye-opening and transformative experience for us. One of the most powerful things we’ve learned is the importance of servant leadership – to lead not with authority or control but with compassion, courage and hope. It has challenged us to rethink what it truly means to serve others, especially in the context of faith and community.
Through the lens of the Church as Missionary, we came to understand that we are called to reach out to the peripheries – to those often left out or forgotten. The invitation to “smell the sheep” reminded us that ministry is not about distance but closeness and relationships. Real leadership happens when we step out of our comfort zones and walk with people where they are.
The sessions on deepening our relationship with God – through encounter, knowledge, commitment and relationship – taught us that mission must flow from a personal connection with Christ. It is only by being rooted in Him that we can be an authentic witness to others.
We were particularly moved by the reference to Nostra Aetate and Christian Apologetics, reminding us that our call as Catholics is not to condemn, but to seek truth and holiness even in other faiths – and to always be prepared to explain the hope we carry with love and respect.
Lastly, the emphasis on 1986 Assisi Prayer for Peace inspired us to be peacemakers, someone who builds bridges, not walls. We now feel empowered to serve beyond boundaries, to be an instrument of joy and hope in the construction of a better Church and a better world.
This formation has encouraged us to live our faith more boldly and generously. We walk away with a renewed heart and a deeper sense of mission.
From left, Mabel Freya, Stalin, Catherine Agnes Paul and Mark Ferrary
“Jangan hanya menjadi gereja devosi, tetapi jadilah gereja misionaris.” (Don’t be a devotional church, be a missionary church)
Kata-kata ini menyentuh hati saya dengan begitu mendalam. Ia mengingatkan saya bahawa sebagai umat Katolik, kita tidak dipanggil hanya untuk menguatkan iman secara peribadi melalui devosi, tetapi untuk keluar melaksanakan misi dan menyahut panggilan Tuhan sebagai gereja yang hidup dan bergerak.
Saya terinspirasi dengan perkongsian Fr. Patrick semasa berada di Sarawak. Beliau menerima panggilan Tuhan walaupun menghadapi kesukaran dan ketidakselesaan untuk ditempatkan di tempat yang sangat asing baginya. Namun, kesungguhan dan keberanian beliau dalam mewartakan Injil menunjukkan kepada saya betapa pentingnya untuk taat pada misi Tuhan walau apa pun cabarannya.
Saya belajar daripada kisah Fr. Patrick bahawa:
- Kita harus berani keluar dari zon selesa dan tidak hanya berada dalam ruang devosi sendiri.
- Tuhan akan membuka jalan bagi mereka yang menyahut panggilan-Nya, meskipun pada awalnya jalan itu tampak sukar.
- Misi kita bukan ditentukan oleh lokasi atau status, tetapi oleh ketaatan dan keberanian kita untuk berkata “Ya” kepada Tuhan.
Refleksi diri saya:
Apakah misi saya di dunia ini untuk Kerajaan Tuhan? Adakah saya sudah menyatakan “Ya” kepada panggilan-Nya? Atau adakah saya masih ragu-ragu, menunggu saat yang “selesa” untuk mula bergerak?
Saya percaya, apabila kita mula melihat iman sebagai sebuah misi, bukan sekadar amalan peribadi, kita akan mula menghidupkan Gereja dengan lebih nyata dan bermakna.
Mari kita menjadi gereja yang hidup, gereja yang diutus, bukan hanya mendengar, tetapi mewartakan. Bukan hanya berdoa, tetapi juga melangkah dalam iman.
Eva Glenn Robert
Sangat diberkati dengan perkongsian daripada Fr. Patrick dimana beliau dihantar ke pedalaman Sarawak untuk menjangkau orang kampung mengenal dan mengikuti Yesus.
Pelayanan tidak terbatas hanya cuma berdoa di gereja sahaja akan tetapi berkomunikasi, belajar bersama dan membangun bersama komuniti dalam ataupun luar gereja.
Pelayanan yang kita pilih mahupun pelayanan yang di pilih untuk kita kadangkala tidak sesuai seperti apa yang dijangkakan. Kekecewaan, kesedihan, ketakutan dan sebagainya berlaku tetapi perkara ini yang akan mendewasakan kita dalam pelayanan. Yang penting tahu fokus kita, untuk siapa, sentiasa berkomunikasi dengan Tuhan. Sentiasa merendahkan hati dan percaya akan Dia.
Elvy Brenda
非常感恩有机会参与黄财龙神父主讲的信仰培育课程。他深入浅出地带领我们重新认识新福传的使命，也再次提醒我们要活出“有羊群味道”的牧灵精神 —— 更贴近人群、走进人心。愿我们在生活中都能成为他人眼中的一束光，一点希望。
Caroline Lim
Attending the Mandarin Mission Formation opened my eyes to what it truly means to be a missionary disciple. I used to think evangelisation was just for priests or religious, but I’ve come to realise that every baptised Catholic is called to go out – to reach the forgotten, the lost and those in need of hope.
Pope Francis’ words about the “smell of the sheep” touched me deeply. I’m learning that evangelisation isn’t about preaching – it’s about being present, listening and walking with others in love and humility.
This formation also reminded me that real leadership is servant leadership – not about position but about helping others grow and feeling God’s love through our actions.
Now, I feel renewed in my mission. Whether it’s in daily conversations or through small acts of kindness, I want to live out the joy of the Gospel and be part of a Church that celebrates, listens and walks with others.
Emily Ng
அருட்தந்தை அந்தோணி பிரபு அவர்களின் உருவாக்க தியானம் மன நிறைவுமிக்கச் செய்திகளையும் ஆன்மிக உற்சாகத்தையும் வழங்கியது. எதிர்நோக்கின் திருப்பயணிகள், அதன் சின்னம் மற்றும் புனித வாசல் கதவு ஆகியவற்றின் தெளிவான விளக்கங்கள் அவை நமக்கு எவற்றை உணர்த்துகின்றன என்பதை அவரது தெளிவான விளக்கங்களால் நான் தெரிந்து கொண்டேன்; புரிந்தும் கொண்டேன்.
இதன் வழி நான் இறை இயேசுவோடு இன்னும் நெருங்கவும் ஏழை எளியவருக்கு உதவிகள் புரியவும் மேலும் இறைவேண்டலை அதிகமாக்கவும் இத்தியானம் எனக்கு துணைபுரிந்தது. இறைவனுக்கு நன்றி. குருவானவருக்கும் நன்றி.
Leticia Diane David
நான் இத்த கருதராங்கில், ஜுபிலீ ஆண்டன் முக்கியதுவம் மற்று புனித கதவு பாப்பரசர திருந்து உள்ளே நூழையும் போது பழையது விட்டு புதிய வழ்வில் நூழைய பாவ சங்கீதனம் முக்கியம் என்பதை அறிந்து கொண்டேன். வட்டார தலைவர் என்ற முறையில் தூய்மையான வாழ்வை பற்றி தெரிந்து கொண்டேன்.
Soosai Manikam
அனைவருக்கும் சமாதானம். இந்த கருத்தரங்கின் மூலம் எனக்கு கிடைத்த ஒரு தெளிவு: ஜூபிலி ஆண்டு, அதன் சின்னம் பற்றி தெரிந்து கொண்டேன்.
எங்கள் பங்கில் இளைஞர் உருவாக்க கருத்தரங்கு நடைபெறவிருக்கிறது. அக்கருத்தரங்கில் ஜூபிலி ஆண்டைப் பற்றி பேச இளைஞர் சந்திப்பு கூட்டத்தில் முன்மொழிந்தேன். அவர்களும் அதை ஏற்றுக்கொண்டனர். அதனால், குருவானவர் கூறிய இக்கருத்துகளை நான் என் பங்கிலுள்ள இளைஞர்களுக்கு பகிர முடிவு செய்திருக்கிறேன்.
Avelin Grace (Church of St. Paul the Hermit, Bestari Jaya)
அனைவருக்கும் சமாதானம். நேற்று நடந்த கருத்தரங்கில் நான் கற்றது: குருவானர் ஜூபிலி ஆண்டு மற்றும் அதன் சின்னம் பற்றி ஒரு தெளிவான விளக்கம் அளித்தார். எனக்கு அந்த சின்னத்தின் விளக்கம் பற்றி தெரியாது. குருவானவர் ஒரு தெளிவான் சிறப்பான விளக்கம் அளித்தார். நான் என் வீட்டிலுள்ள குடும்பத்தாரிடம் ஜூபிலி ஆண்டு, அதன் சின்னம் மற்றும் புனித கதவுகள் பற்றி நான் பகிர்ந்தேன். நன்றி.
Francisca Francis (Chapel of St. Anthony of Padua, Coalfields)
Testimonies from Ministry Leaders
“LEADING THE MISSION WITH COURAGE, HOPE AND COMPASSION”
When the question was put to us:
- What is my greatest highlight as a Leader?
- Are you willing to be a Leader of Courage?
- Are you willing to be a Leader of Hope?
- Leading the Mission with Compassion?
The message I received at the formation is that I must have a deep encounter with Jesus in order to have courage to carry out my services in ministry, having divine responsibility by my sacrifice, reaching out with a compassionate heart, a listening ear, giving Hope as we are Pilgrims of Hope.
It was an affirmation to me, as leader of the GriefShare ministry and committee member of my BEC, that I was inspired and given the courage to lead and share my experience of a grieving person, who found healing through the grace of the Holy Spirit.
I took on the role as a facilitator for the GriefShare programme and to lead with courage, to bring hope to the grieving and help them find healing through the mercy and compassion of Jesus, our Lord and Saviour, and also through our Holy Mother, who grieved at the death of Jesus Christ, holding Him when they took Him down from the cross. She too is our hope to continue our journey in life.
The 13-week sessions bring hope to all those who attend. That there is healing and they will be able to move forward and continue their lives without their loved ones and knowing that they will meet them at the final judgement.
As facilitators, we have been given the grace to have a compassionate heart, a listening ear and to be there at any time for the grieving to hold our hands when they need comfort.
At the end of the 13 weeks, we see how the Holy Spirit moves with healing and the participants leave with hope and are able to manage and understand their grief. They encounter Jesus in their healing process and turn to Him in all they do. We continue to keep in touch with all the participants.
As part of my BEC core team, I reach out to families who seldom participate in BEC activities. It takes courage to contact them, praying they will not reject our call. I hope that one day they will join the activities of the BEC.
Joan Linda Harding-Hodges
What I experienced and learned from the Leaders Formation:
As a BEC Leader, I learned how to grow and to lead the BEC with courage and with a personal touch. I continue to have hope and pray that our BEC community will experience a transformation and become more involved in our activities.
As a Communion Minister, I learned to be compassionate to my fellow parishioners as well as to our homebound whom we serve. Throughout this journey, the emphasis has always been on deepening our faith, nurturing compassion and fostering spiritual growth. These moments have stirred in me a sense of renewal and a longing for God’s Kingdom.
Lusia Mary R. Samy Kanno
The session on Leading with Courage, Hope and Compassion reminded me that we are here to serve. In challenging moments, courage and a steadfast faith guide me. In times of uncertainty, hope lights my way. And in every interaction, I need to find compassion that will help me imitate the love of Christ. This session inspired me to grow resilience and create a legacy of kindness and purpose. I am thankful to our Redeptorist Fathers, who gave me an opportunity to further understand that I am part of a mission guided by such powerful values.
Victor Soosai
Testimonies from the Marian Ministry
The session was inspiring. We learned that Mary’s submission to God’s plan opened the way to true freedom to humanity. I am deeply moved by her silent sufferings. She does not complain but completely surrenders to God. She guides and teaches us to do the same.
Mary Magline
Fr. Patrick asked us how Mother Mary touched our lives? I remembered the numerous times Mother Mary had interceded for me and answered my prayers. Thank you Fr. Patrick for reminding me of all she is to me in my life.
Mary Anne
In the Formation I realised how often I call upon Mother Mary in my daily life, even in the smallest matters like finding a park. Many of us don’t talk about our encounters with our Mother. It was heartwarming to hear others’ stories about her powerful presence in their lives.
Evelyn Tina
Testimonies from the Faith Formators
I was privileged to attend the formation for faith formators. From the onset I was drawn to the title “Let Your Light Shine Before Others”.
During the session, I was inspired by stories about St. Maximilian Kolbe, Edith Stein (St. Teresa Benedicta of the Cross), St. Augustine and others. These saints taught us what true sacrifice and service means, which is to put others before self, and all with great humility, something all of us need in our lives.
Breaking into smaller groups, we discussed how we can incorporate these values into our own lives and especially our ministries, to enhance and enrich our mission. I left the formation with a new perspective and end with a famous quote by St. Augustine:
“You made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you”.
Gerald Oliveiro
Testimonies from the Altar Servers
The altar servers’ formation was a truly wonderful and meaningful experience for me. Everything was well-planned and easy to follow. Father Prabhu led the session in such an engaging way, and he explained things so clearly that I understood and learned a lot. He shared many important facts about the role of altar servers and helped me see why this service is such a special part of the Church.
I really liked how Father Prabhu made the session interesting and not boring. He spoke in a way that made me feel comfortable, and he encouraged us to ask questions. I also learned many helpful tips on how to serve better at the altar and how to show more respect and care during Mass.
Overall, I feel more confident and inspired after this formation. It was a blessed and enriching experience, inspiring me want to serve with humility and reverence.
Jeremiah Teoh
Joining the Altar Servers’ Formation was truly an amazing experience. One highlight for me was working in groups to identify and name the sacred items used during Mass. I learned so much not only from my group but also from others, about the meaning and purpose behind each item. The formation helped me grow in faith and understand the importance of serving with reverence and joy. I’m grateful for the lessons learned and the deeper connection I now feel to my role at the altar.
Cassandra Masang
Attending this Altar Servers’ Formation was transformative. I learned the purpose behind each of our duties and learned the names of all the sacred items used in Mass. This recollection also gave me the opportunity to connect with other servers and to grow our community and, of course, Father Prabhu’s inspiring words on serving in spirit with Blessed Carlo Acutis shed light on our role as altar servers. I’m grateful for such a meaningful experience and spirit-filled formation.
Erica Masang
Testimonies from the BECs
Listening to the Redemptorists was truly encouraging and uplifting for me. I am reminded that in God there is always Hope, even through the difficult times in my life. My life is not just me and God only. The BEC brings us together, and I thank God that together we can share God’s love everywhere we go.
Philomena Peterson (BEC Zone 1)
The formation session by the Redemptorist Priests during our Zone Mass was enriching and inspiring. The four key elements of Encounter, Knowledge, Relationship and Commitment are ways we can grow our community and keep our faith strong. The teachings have definitely made a difference in my life.
Anna Violet (BEC Zone 2)
On 7th July 2025 we celebrated our BEC Zone Mass at the Church of the Divine Mercy. It was truly a moving and spiritually uplifting celebration of the mass. We had the honour of welcoming three Redemptorist Priests Fr Patrick Masang, Fr Terence Wee and Fr Antony Prabhu alongside our Parish Priest Fr George Harrison and Bro Phillip.
Their presence and insight brought a profound sense of grace and unity reminding us of the power of faith, fellowship and the importance of deepening our relationship with God even in heartbreaks and even in waiting. It was an invitation to encounter the Divine in a personal and spiritual way.
There was a tangible sense of unity and renewal as we joined together in prayer, song and reflection. We are deeply grateful for this blessed experience and pray that the seeds planted during this encounter will continue to grow within us drawing us ever closer to God and to one another. May our hearts burn with desire to embrace and follow Christ all through our lives.
Cathren Thomas (BEC Zone 3)
Some 350 parishioners from the eight BECs of Kota Kemuning came together in faith, hope and love to celebrate Mass at a neighbourhood hall.
It was indeed an honour for our community to have three Redemptorist priests, our parish priest Fr. George and Bro. Philip for this Mass. The Mass, which was preceded by a formation session, was successfully animated by members from the community. The venue was decorated with the colours of Divine Mercy. It echoed with music and joy as we raised our hearts and voices to the Lord.
The event concluded with fellowship. It was a great time to mingle and attest to our faith. May the faith in our local community continue to grow and be a beacon of hope to others in the neighbourhood.
Maria Martin (BEC Zone 4)
Attending the BEC Zone 6 (Setia Alam) Mass and Formation was a beautiful and uplifting experience. I felt incredibly joyful and blessed to have been part of such a meaningful gathering. It was a moment where the community came together in faith, unity, and love – to listen to the inspiring teachings of Fr. Prabhu.
The presence of four priests celebrating the Mass with us made the occasion even more special, reminding us of the richness of our Catholic faith and the strength we find in the community. The entire event was filled with grace, encouragement and a deep sense of spiritual connection.
I am grateful to have shared this experience with the fellow members of our BEC. Moments like these remind us that we are not alone in our journey of faith – we walk together, guided by the Holy Spirit.
Catherine Lim (BEC Zone 6)
Testimonies from the Youth
Hi everyone! I just wanted to share a little reflection from the youth formation that really spoke to me.
Coming into this gathering, I’ll be honest — I felt tired. Life has been noisy. There’s so much going on: expectations from work, family, friends… sometimes I even feel like I have to be someone I’m not, just to keep up.
But during Session 1, when we heard about Blessed Chiara “Luce” Badano, something shifted in me. She was so young — just like us — and yet she made the bold decision to trust Jesus fully, even in the midst of pain. Her words, “If this is what You want, Jesus, so do I”, really hit me. I realised I’ve been trying to control everything, instead of trusting God’s strength in my weakness.
Then in Session 2, when we learned about Blessed Carlo Acutis, I was reminded that holiness isn’t about doing big, flashy things. It’s about staying close to Jesus, especially in the Eucharist. I loved when he said, “The Eucharist is my highway to heaven”. Sometimes we look everywhere for answers — on our phones, on social media — but that session reminded me that silence, prayer and the Eucharist are where I can actually hear God clearly.
So, if there’s one thing I’m taking home today, it’s this: I don’t need to have it all together to be loved by God. My weakness is not a flaw — it’s a space where Jesus wants to meet me.
Like the theme says, “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me”. Not through my own strength. But through Him.
Vanessa James
A Community Reawakened
The Missional Formation sessions have done more than just inspire individual hearts they’ve reawakened our parish to the mission Christ entrusted to His Church. Through powerful teachings, honest testimonies and the shared experience of formation, parishioners have rediscovered what it means to be a people of faith sent forth in love.
This journey reminds us that mission isn’t confined to distant lands or special vocations. It begins in our homes, ministries and in conversations. As we continue to reflect on what we’ve received, may we carry this fire into every part of parish life, nurturing a culture that listens, accompanies and evangelises with mercy and joy.
May our hearts remain open to being formed and reformed by the Spirit, so that we may continue to build a parish that lives not just for itself, but for the world God so loves.
📸 View the photo collection here: https://cdmshahalam.smugmug.com/2025-Collection/Missional-Formation-in-CDM
📰 Read the coverage on CSSR News: https://www.cssr.news/2025/07/malaysia-church-of-divine-mercy-welcomes-redemptorist-parish-mission-in-shah-alam/