ArchKL to celebrate World Day of the Poor at district level

Nov 10, 2023

KUALA LUMPUR: As the seventh World Day of the Poor approaches, the Ministry of the Poor, under the Archdiocesan Office for Human Development, convened an online session to collaborate with PIHDM heads and organisers gearing up for the upcoming celebrations in various parishes at district level.

Fr Andrew Manickam, OFM Cap, the ecclesiastical assistant of the archdiocese’s Creation Justice Ministry, led the session reflecting on Pope Francis’ theme for this year’s World Day of the Poor, inspired by Tobit 4:7, which encourages all Do not turn your face away from anyone who is poor.

Archbishop Julian Leow, who was also present, discussed the varying needs of individuals seeking assistance. He stressed the importance of prudent resource allocation and raised the question of whether to teach people to be self-sufficient or provide them with immediate aid, i.e. “Do we teach them to fish or just feed them the fish.” He encouraged a broader perspective that goes beyond financial assistance and promotes open-mindedness and non-judgmental support. The session concluded with participants sharing their reflections and insights, acknowledging the need to re-evaluate their approaches to serving the poor. — By Aaron Koh, Coordinator, Ministry of the Poor, AOHD

This year’s World Day of the Poor will be celebrated at district levels on November 19 as follows: