Double celebration at KKB parish

Sep 20, 2024

KUALA KUBU BHARU: The Church of St Paul the Apostle (SPA) had a double celebration on August 31. The first, marked the 67th Independence Day of Malaysia and the second, was the 31st Sacerdotal Anniversary of parish priest, Fr V. A. Michael.

Rosary began at 5.30pm followed by sunset Mass. Under the leadership of the KUBM leader, Leo Matang, for the very first time, uniformed government servants from the Police Force, Army and Fire Department were present at Mass. They are East Malaysians posted in Kuala Kubu Bharu. They took the initiative to animate the Mass. Different language groups participated. Some came in their traditional and colourful costumes. Both the Malaysian Flag and the State Flag of Selangor were processed in.

In his homily, Fr Michael spoke about how we listened to our superiors at work or listen to our parents and teachers. It is much more important to listen to the commands of God in our lives and the importance to follow His law and not some human traditions (Mark 7: 8-23). He said God gave Moses 10 commandments for the people to follow whilst Jesus gave two – “Love your God with all your heart, soul, mind and strength and to love your neighbour as you love yourself” (Mark 12 : 30-32). He challenged us to reflect in our lives to see if we have given great importance to listen to God.

As we celebrate Independence Day, Fr Michael told us to continuously remember and hold dear the Rukun Negara in our hearts. Rukun Negara is our guide to ensure that we Malaysians follow the law of the country. He made us to reflect our unity as Malaysians amidst its diversity. In spite of our different cultures, language and customs, we are still united as Malaysians and we care for one another.

After the Mass, the flags were raised and the National Anthem was sung with pride and love for the country.
As the saying goes, “Food brings people together”, and we had a potluck fellowship after Mass followed by cake cutting and presentation of a hand-made Sacerdotal Anniversary card prepared by the catechists and students. Parishioners had the chance to pen their well-wishes and gratitude in the card too.

Fr Michael thanked every one for coming and participating in the Mass and fellowship. Justina Sharon