A joyful celebration of faith at CTL parish

Feb 14, 2025

KEPONG: The Church of Christ the Light (CTL) in Desa Jaya celebrated its feast and the first anniversary of its establishment as a parish recently. The momentous occasion was marked by a vibrant multilingual Triduum Mass and a solemn procession, held from January 30 to February 2, bringing the faithful together in prayer, devotion, and fellowship.

The first day of the Triduum Mass was presided over by Fr Simon Labrooy, with Fr Gnana Selvam Berentis and parish priest, Fr Peter Anthoney, concelebrating. Addressing the congregation of over 300, who had gathered with great enthusiasm despite the holidays, Fr Simon encouraged them to embrace their faith with joy and to celebrate their lives with God. The evening concluded with a warm and delightful dinner, lovingly prepared by Zone 1 and 2 BECs, fostering a strong sense of community at the church foyer.

On the second day of the Triduum, Fr Michel Dass, together with Fr Peter, led the celebration with the theme Listening with the Spirit of God. He urged the congregation to open their hearts to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, to live with compassion, and to cultivate a forgiving heart, just as Jesus did. He reminded all that Jesus was presented in the temple as a sign that we ultimately belong to God. The evening’s fellowship continued with a sumptuous dinner, generously provided by the BEC’s from Zones 3, 4 and 5.

The third day carried the theme Walking as Pilgrims of Hope and was celebrated by Fr Surain Durairaj, alongside with our parish priest. The evening began with the blessing of candles at the grotto, as more than 500 faithful gathered, their hearts filled with devotion. A sacred procession followed, leading into the church, where children were presented to the Lord and the Basic Ecclesial Community (BEC) leaders carried their BEC banners in reverence.

During his homily, Fr Surain reflected on the moment when Simeon took the infant Jesus into his arms and praised God, proclaiming, “Now, Lord, you can let me, your servant, go in peace.” He called upon the congregation to emulate Simeon’s faith and devotion. As it was also a day dedicated to consecrated life, he invited the community to pray for all religious congregations who have dedicated their lives to serving God.

The feast day celebration culminated in a deeply moving and prayerful silent procession through the streets of Desa Jaya. A beautifully decorated vehicle carried the Blessed Sacrament, held reverently by Fr Surain, while Fr Peter and the congregation walked in solemn devotion. As the procession wove through the main streets, the rosary was recited, with each participant holding a candle that illuminated the night with a serene glow. At designated stops, the faithful knelt in veneration as the Blessed Sacrament was raised in blessing, while flower girls gently scattered petals along the path in a gesture of love and reverence.

Upon returning to the church, the celebration concluded with benediction, filling the hearts of all with peace and grace. Fr Peter expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the presiders, the dedicated working committee, and every parishioner who contributed to the success of this beautiful celebration. It was a truly uplifting experience — a testament to the deep sense of faith, belonging, and love that unites the parish community.

The evening ended with a fellowship dinner in the church basement, where laughter, gratitude, and the warmth of togetherness marked the perfect conclusion to a blessed and unforgettable feast day. --Moses Sinnapen