A bold celebration of faith, community at Seremban parish
On December 7, the Church of the Visitation hosted its highly anticipated Rise Up Carnival, a full-day event that brought together joy, camaraderie, and a deep sense of purpose.
Dec 21, 2024

SEREMBAN: On December 7, the Church of the Visitation hosted its highly anticipated Rise Up Carnival, a full-day event that brought together joy, camaraderie, and a deep sense of purpose. Organised by the Visitation Youth Ministry, the carnival served as both a lively celebration and an important fundraiser, with proceeds dedicated to supporting the church’s renovation efforts.
From 9.00am to 5.00pm, the church grounds were transformed into a vibrant hub of activity, attracting over 2,000 attendees from Seremban and beyond. The event was a beautiful reflection of the diversity and unity of the local community, bringing together people of all faiths and backgrounds in support of a shared cause.
The opening ceremony was officiated by YB Tuan Teo Kok Seong, chairman of the State Industrial and Non-Islamic Affairs Committee (HEBI), whose presence affirmed the inclusive spirit of the event. He was joined by Visitation’s parish priest, Fr Xavier Andrew, along with assistant parish priests Fr Kenneth Gopal (OCD) and Fr Philip Tay (OCD). Their leadership set the tone for a day that was not only about fun but also about fostering community, connection, and faith.
The carnival featured a wide variety of vendors, with stalls run by parishioners as well as representatives from other faith communities. This diverse mix offered something for everyone — from delicious local delicacies and refreshing beverages to intricate handicrafts and unique gifts. The marketplace became a celebration of talent and creativity, while also promoting interfaith collaboration and goodwill.
Children and families enjoyed a range of exciting activities, including games, face painting, and inflatable playgrounds. Meanwhile, adults engaged in raffles and participated in interactive workshops, making the event a truly multi-generational celebration.
One of the standout highlights of the carnival was the performances. Malaysia’s beloved singing sensation, Dato’ Francissa Peter, captivated the audience with her set of songs. Her support for the church’s renovation efforts resonated deeply with the crowd.
This was further amplified by the dynamic performance of Malaysian Indian rapper Sheezay, whose vibrant beats and charismatic stage presence energised the audience.
The success of the carnival was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the Visitation Youth Ministry. From planning and coordination, to execution, the youth team demonstrated exceptional leadership, teamwork, and passion. Their tireless efforts ensured that the event ran smoothly and underscored the pivotal role of young people in fostering positive change within the church and the wider community.
At its core, the carnival was more than just a fundraiser or a social gathering; it was a movement — a powerful expression of faith, unity, and generosity. The overwhelming response from parishioners, neighbours, and visitors spoke volumes about the strength of the community’s bonds and the shared commitment to building a brighter future together. While the funds raised brought the church closer to achieving its renovation goals, the real impact of the event lay in the connections formed and the spirit of solidarity that was cultivated.
As the day ended, the echoes of laughter, music, and heartfelt conversations lingered in the air, leaving a lasting impression on all who attended. The Rise Up Carnival 2024 will undoubtedly be remembered as a milestone in the life of the Church of the Visitation, a celebration of the enduring power of faith, community, and generosity, and a reminder of the incredible things that can happen when a community rises together.
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