Fr Jonathan’s spiritual gift to the Golden Eagles

Mar 14, 2025

By Bob Ho
The Golden Eagles gathered for a farewell celebration in honour of Fr Jonathan Rao, who, in return, left them with a parting gift — a spiritual “3Ws formula” for storing treasures in heaven.

Before giving his message, the newly-ordained priest invited the seniors of the Cathedral of St John the Evangelist to reflect on Matthew 6:19-21, focusing on the notion of treasures, both earthly and heavenly, particularly the verse, “For where your treasure is, there will your heart be.”

Fr Jonathan first engaged them with a Scripture song video titled Where Your Treasure Is, to ignite their hearts. He then shared his wisdom: “While it’s okay to store earthly treasures, our focus must remain on heavenly treasures. This is achieved by constantly reflecting on and living out God’s Word, seeking and doing God’s Will, and following God’s Way to live a Christian life — loving both our neighbour and our enemy.”

Fr Jonathan began his journey as a deacon at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist on October 3, 2024, quickly forming a bond with the Golden Eagles. He actively participated in their fortnightly fellowships and even joined them on a pilgrimage to the Church of the Sacred Heart in Bentong. The Golden Eagles were also present at the Church of St Francis of Assisi to witness his priestly ordination on Jan 25, 2025.

Around 60 Golden Eagles attended the farewell fellowship at the parish house, joined by parish priest Fr Gerard Theraviam and assistant parish priest Fr Ferdinand Magimay. In another farewell event organised by the parish, Fr Gerard highlighted Fr Jonathan’s dedication, noting that, instead of a celebratory dinner on his last evening at the cathedral, he chose to embark on a street mission with the RCIA team.

In his farewell message to the parish community, Fr Jonathan expressed, “My greatest treasure has been the openness with which you have shared your lives in our interactions — through joyful sacred celebrations and parish activities. These moments have shaped the cathedral’s journey towards communion, participation, and mission. You are a community supported by committed people in various ministries, all of whom have inspired a deep sense of belonging and unity in the cathedral.”

Effective March 3, Fr Jonathan serves as the assistant parish priest at the Church of St Jude in Rawang, where he completed his pastoral training and was ordained as a deacon.