Arise and shine this Lenten season

“Arise and Shine” was the theme of the Lenten Retreat organised by the Church of St Thomas, for the English-speaking faithful from March 3 to 5.

Mar 17, 2023

By Dr Francis Leong
“Arise and Shine” was the theme of the Lenten Retreat organised by the Church of St Thomas, for the English-speaking faithful from March 3 to 5.

The retreat master was Fr Michael Payyapilly VC, who captured the hearts of many through online Masses during the COVID-19 epidemic.

Some 340 participants registered for the retreat, of which 190 were parishioners, and the other 148 came from various parishes across Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore.

The Faith Formation Ministry, with support from parish priest Fr George Packiasamy, began planning and preparing the groundwork for the retreat in April 2022. The co-chairpersons Sheila Fernandez and Anna Thong, and the committee members worked tirelessly, especially during the final week, to ensure the event’s success. It was heartening to see many young volunteers helping in various ways, including registration and serving at the food stations.

Those who attended had high praises for Fr Michael and his spiritual guidance. He was assisted by Fr Joseph Kannanpally VC, who inspired the participants with his life experiences. The daily programme included Praise and Worship sessions, talks, Eucharistic Celebration, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, and healing services during which personal petitions were offered up.

During the closing session, Fr George thanked the two priests for conducting the retreat in Kuantan.

In appreciation, he presented them with a love offering. Fr George also thanked the organising committee and the volunteers for their hard work in ensuring everything went as planned. He wished the participants a safe journey home and that God bless them with a new heart, new spirit, new hope, and new enthusiasm as they arise and shine forth.