By Bernard Anthony
KUALA LUMPUR: Though they are old, fragile and in their twilight years, this evangelical counsel, namely the retired Sisters of the Infant Jesus Convent (IJC) in Cheras never complain but continue to bear witness for Christ in their simple living of an exemplary prayerful Christian life. They are not forgotten too, as at times they do have concerned faithful dropping by for a visit.

On June 28, 40 members of the Senior Citizens Ministry from the Cathedral of St John visited them. On hand to welcome the senior citizens was Sr Wilie Fernandez IJ who is the new animator of IJC.

Upon arrival, the senior citizens mingled and chatted with the Sisters, offering words of comfort and support. In return some Sisters also provided them with words of encouragement in their ministry.

Beside the Opening and Closing prayers, the senior citizens sang several ‘evergreen’ songs to entertain the Sisters, who also joined in the sing-along. A love offering was also made to IJC. They all then adjourned for lunch together in the hall that was sponsored by SCM.

S.V. Culas, who is the Coordinator of the SCM, in his speech thanked the nuns for being dedicated missionaries for their service, especially in the field of education to the society.

Now retired, Culas said they have time for contemplation in faith.

Sr Willie on behalf of the nuns expressed her appreciation to the senior citizens for taking time off to be with them showing the love of God.

“This clearly shows that you care and are concerned with our welfare,” she said.

Before the visitors left for the cathedral in the city centre, Sr Rita, aged 86, sang a religious hymn as a prelude to the end of the event, while the rest clapped.

Presently there are only 21 retired Sisters residing in IJC, besides another one IJ Sister, aged 38, who acts as caregiver. The figure is down, as last year six retired IJ nuns went to be with the Lord. Most of them are former teachers or principals in the various Infant Jesus Convent schools in Peninsular Malaysia. Most are now in their seventies and eighties.

The Infant Jesus Sisters have dedicated their entire lives to the service of God and have provided excellent education that has benefitted thousands of Malaysian girls irrespective of race and religion over the past several decades.