A day of ‘Harmony in Mantin’

Sep 27, 2024

MANTIN, Negeri Sembilan: On September 14, the Church of St Aloysius hosted its inaugural ‘Harmony in Mantin’ event. The celebration, designed to promote faith and fellowship, embodied the spirit of Merdeka Day and Hari Malaysia, focusing on strengthening the bond between the church and the local community. The joyful atmosphere brought together people from diverse backgrounds, fostering a deeper sense of unity and connection.

The day commenced with a multilingual Mass celebrated by Fr Christopher Loh OCD, with parish priest Fr Christopher Soosaipillai concelebrating. During his homily, the parish priest reflected on the rich history of the church, spanning from baptisms to burials within the grounds of St Aloysius. He shared a poignant moment when a Sikh man confided that it was his first time walking through the church’s grounds, urging the congregation to embrace and share Jesus’ love with all. The singing of the national anthem in honour of Merdeka and Malaysia Day set a tone of unity, underscoring the shared identity of all Malaysians present.

The highlight of the evening was undeniably the food. A delightful array of food trucks and home-cooked meals adorned the church grounds, offering a mix of local favourites and international dishes. The shared enjoyment of this diverse culinary spread fostered a lively, communal atmosphere. Families and friends bonded over the variety of flavours, with the food trucks becoming the event's focal point. The laughter and conversations that filled the air emphasised the spirit of togetherness.

Children brought a vibrant energy to the evening, dressed in traditional attire celebrating Malaysia’s rich cultural diversity. Their playful exploration of the festivities and their joyful presence added an extra layer of cheer to the event, with their innocence and creativity enhancing the overall experience.

The evening’s activities catered to all ages, featuring performances from local groups such as the Mantin Yoga Group and the Pinky Group from the Church of the Holy Family Kajang. The dynamic drumming and dance performances energised the crowd, showcasing the community’s diverse talents. Attendees cheered enthusiastically, reflecting the rich cultural tapestry of the gathering.

Interactive games, including the Lantern and Costume Competition, further elevated the festive mood. These activities encouraged creativity and friendly competition, with participants eagerly engaging and showcasing their inventive spirit.

As the event concluded, a lingering sense of unity and camaraderie prevailed. ‘Harmony in Mantin’ was not only a celebration of faith and food but also an opportunity to forge new friendships and strengthen community bonds. With the warmth and hospitality of the Church of St Aloysius at its core, this event has the potential to become a beloved tradition in Mantin, one that continues to foster unity, faith, and shared joy for years to come.