📍 Sunday 7AM Mass
✍️ Written by Perzeus James
🕊 Communion Minister, active member of the Tamil Apostolate
Good morning, brothers and sisters. My name is Perzeus James. I serve as a Communion Minister and I am active in the Tamil apostolate.
It has been almost two weeks since our Holy Father passed. As we continue to come to terms with his death, we remember the many ways he has touched and impacted our lives.
I remember him not only as a Holy Father but as a revolutionary figure in this modern world. His thoughts, writings, and pastoral approach brought new ways of thinking into many areas of our lives. As Chinese, Indian, Sabahan, and Sarawakian members of this parish, I am confident we have been journeying on a path shaped by the Holy Spirit – a path that was made known to us through Pope Francis.
At the end of 2015, our parish was blessed with the opportunity to open the Holy Door of Mercy. From that moment, many Malaysian Christians began to grow in their devotion to the Divine Mercy. It was Pope Francis who laid the foundation for this spiritual renewal.
His apostolic exhortation Amoris Laetitia — The Joy of Love — offers profound insight into the challenges faced by families today. Inspired by this document, CDM has placed strong emphasis on supporting and nurturing family life. Despite the social and economic challenges faced by many families, Pope Francis’ writings have guided us through faith and meaningful dialogue rooted in God’s Word.
Through his popular encyclical Laudato Si’, Pope Francis reawakened a deep sense of responsibility to care for creation. He reminded us that, just as we care for one another, we are also called to care for the Earth, our common home.
As a parish, CDM has wholeheartedly embraced this call. Under the guidance of our parish priest Fr. George Harrison, we have committed to creating a “zero plastic” environment within the church grounds. At every meeting, event and gathering, we strive to care for the Earth and its natural resources.
Another significant work of Pope Francis, Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel), reminds us that every Christian is called to be a missionary disciple, proclaiming the Gospel with joy and courage. Encouraged by Fr. George, we began studying this document last year.
Through these sessions, we have learned how to share the presence of Christ not only within our homes but also with our neighbours, friends, and all who seek to know Him.
After journeying for nearly 12 years under the guidance of Pope Francis, I can confidently say that his teachings have inspired us and filled us with courage and joy to share Jesus with others. He was a pope for people of all walks of life, and the joy he brought continues to shine among us.
Let’s pray for his soul, that perpetual light may shine upon him and his soul may rest in peace.
Thank you.