Assumption parish’s journey of love as one family

May 03, 2024

By Macline Fernandez
The Church of the Assumption hosted a retreat for BECs to bond as a family came to fruition April 19- 21 at the Golden Sands Baptist Centre in Port Dickson.

This was a suggestion by parish priest Fr Leonard, who was confident that the Journey of Love as One Family retreat would foster spiritual growth within our community. Indeed, our return home confirmed this, as many shared how the Holy Spirit had opened our minds and hearts, helping us recognise our vital roles within the broader Assumption Family.

Typically viewed as a congregation for the elderly, we were pleasantly surprised when 18 youth (out of 54 attendees) participated in the retreat. Their vigour, enthusiasm, and thoughtful contributions pushed us to acknowledge them as insightful, dedicated Catholic youth.

During one session, the youth conveyed powerful messages, urging us not to compare but to compliment them; expressing their commitment to overcoming their flaws; advocating for setting a positive example for the younger ones; emphasising the importance of seeking out and returning the lost sheep, and stressing the need to ensure no one is left behind. They also emphasised the importance of community support.

Fr Leonard’s discussion on Christian family values highlighted the crucial role parents play in equipping themselves with these values to guide their children in discerning their vocations, whether they be to the priesthood, religious life, single, or married life. His personal testimony about his path to the priesthood was deeply inspiring, revealing the mysterious ways in which God operates.

Other sessions focused on forgiveness and recognising each individual as a unique gift from God, evoking heartfelt reactions from many attendees. One mother recounted, “My daughter wept as she lit a candle, symbolising her dedication to God.”

Fr Biju Mathew’s talk on Stewardship emphasised our role as caretakers of God’s gifts, encouraging respect and sharing of our resources as an expression of gratitude for His blessings. As Fr Biju prepares to leave the parish for his next assignment, the retreat served as a poignant farewell, marked by a special gift from all of us, highlighting the deep emotional connections formed.

As we concluded the retreat, many participants reflected positively on the experience. For the BECCOT Organising Team, this retreat was a profound reminder of how God uses us to impact others. We are grateful to everyone who participated, especially to Frs Leonard and Biju for leading the sessions that glorified God. May His blessings continue to enrich us all!