BEC celebrates 32nd anniversary

Nov 06, 2015

By Paul Toh
Still thriving and growing stronger than ever, Area Group 4, Tanjung Bungah of the Church of the Immaculate Conception recently celebrated its 32nd anniversary with a Mass attended by about 100 members and guests.

Fr Michael Cheah was the celebrant and attendees included those from neighbouring BECs.

Founded in1983, the BEC has remained strong and has maintained its membership throughout the years. However, this BEC has been able to survive, where many others have failed, due to its leaders and members, who treasure each other's friendship and close collaboration where their Christian faith is concerned.

In his homily, Fr Cheah said he was happy with the night’s turnout and hoped this would also be the norm at monthly BEC gatherings.

“The turnout at BEC meetings has been dismal in most area groups, and in order to sustain and maintain its survival, members of every BEC need to support one another.

“Sometimes, someone had got to go to the front like Jesus, who worked so many miracles and nurtured many servants. How did he die? He died on the cross for all to see, a shameful death.

“But as long as you are not doing anything wrong, and guided by the Holy Spirit, you know you are doing the work of the Lord.

“When we are of service to the Church, we are doing it for the Church, and not for our own personal glory,” he added.

After Mass, members were treated to a potluck dinner.

This was also a good time to appreciate all those leaders of this BEC who had contributed and sacrificed, in one way or another, and whose efforts have kept this BEC thriving and growing.

Past leaders who have contributed immensely to the wellbeing of the BEC were Lucille Fletcher, Sabrina Oh, Peggy Daniel, Paul Tan, Mary Chin, James Fletcher, Anthony Selvarayan, Philip Chye and Celine Cautian.

The BEC has organised many activities besides the monthly gatherings which have always been well attended.

Other activities included visits to the infirmed and homebound, charity work at welfare homes, excursions, prayers at wakes, rosary gatherings in the months of May, and especially October, where many members have opened their houses, the popular annual Christmas party, carolling, and most of all, helping each other in times of need.

Currently, the BEC is led by R. Chanalsamy, better known as Sam, who has done a wonderful job with the help of his dynamic assistants, to ensure the continued growth and success of the BEC.