Source: Herald Malaysia
Jun 29, 2024
Kuala Lumpur
Msgr Stanislaus Soosamariam, the parish priest of the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, emphasised the significance of the Eucharist as the central theme for the recent parish feast day celebration. He highlighted that the annual feast provides a valuable opportunity for parishioners to deepen their understanding of the Eucharist, which is the cornerstone of Christian life.
Fr Nelson Joseph from the Diocese of Penang was the main preacher for most of the nine-day novena and Mass held from June 1 to 9. The novena sessions were instrumental in guiding the faithful through reflections on the Eucharist, prayer, and fellowship, enhancing their spiritual journey.
Fr Nelson, in his reflections on the Eucharist, highlighted its centrality in the Catholic faith and its transformative power in nourishing and strengthening believers for their earthly journey and eternal destination. He emphasised the importance of observing the five precepts of the Catholic Church, underlining the Eucharist’s role in fostering love, mercy, and spiritual growth among believers.
Archbishop Julian Leow presided over the Eucharistic celebration on June 9. Concelebrating were Msgr Stanislaus, Fr Nelson, Fr Michael Teng OFM, Cap and Archbishop Emeritus Murphy Pakiam.
In his homily, Archbishop Julian posed a poignant question: when faced with choices between spending time with family or serving in the Church, or between attending to personal health or reaching out to others, whose needs takes precedence? Reflecting on a late-night sick call after a day filled with Masses and appointments, the archbishop emphasised the importance of prioritising the needs of others, even when exhausted. He stressed Jesus’ example of constant service and urged listeners to take responsibility for their actions, emphasising the sincerity and true intention behind their service to others.
Inviting all to follow the example of Jesus and Mary, Archbishop Julian quoted Mary’s humble acceptance of God’s will, encouraging everyone to do what is right in the eyes of the Holy Spirit and to reflect Christ in their lives. He prayed for the guidance of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, urging believers to emulate His compassionate and selfless love in all their thoughts and actions.
The feast culminated in a solemn candlelight procession, winding through sections of Jalan Peel, Jalan Shelley, and Jalan Cheras. Approximately 1,400 faithful participated in the procession. This event stood as a testament to the parish’s devotion to the Sacred Heart of Jesus, emphasising adoration and reverence for the Eucharistic Lord.
Msgr Stanislaus, in his address, expressed gratitude to all the celebrants. He commended Fr Nelson for his efforts in bringing parishioners closer to Jesus through the Eucharist and other sacraments. The parish priest also acknowledged the participation of all segments of the parish community, including migrants, in organising the festivities, which were celebrated with solemnity and meaning.
The Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus also saw a prayer for the consecration of families to the Sacred Heart, led by Fr Nelson and Msgr Stanislaus. Parishioners were encouraged to lift up their family members in need of healing and reconciliation, praying for their families to be filled with love, holiness, and mercy under the protection of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. — By Bernard Anthony
