Friar Dominic Francis celebrates his Golden Jubilee

Apr 10, 2014

By Matthew Solomon
Bro Dominic Francis, the first Malaysian Capuchin celebrated his 50th anniversary as a Friar on March 27 at St Francis Xavier Home for the Elderly where he is a resident.

Fr Paul Cheong, OFM Cap the Custos of Malaysia-Singapore Custody was the main celebrant with Archbishop Emeritus Murphy Pakiam, Archbishop Emeritus Soter Fernandez and 14 other priests concelebrating.

Fr Cheong emphasised that “we should accept God’s word with simplicity and humility... The word of God is filled with wisdom and love,” he added. He also mentioned the life of St Francis of Assisi which was full of dedication and prayer.

“Bro Dominic Francis is everything that Jesus said in the Gospel today — simple, gentle, prayerful. He is a typical Capuchin Friar. He is also loving and caring towards his parishioners,” he added.

After Mass, Fr Cheong spoke more on Bro Dominic. After his training, Bro Dominic made his 1st simple profession on June 8, 1964 in Monte Mariano, Mangalore, India. His solemn profession was also in Mangalore on June 7, 1971 before returning to Malaysia. Together with the Indian friars and others, Bro Dominic was instrumental in establishing three fraternities which are Gethsemani Friary (Cheras), St Felix of Cantalice Friary (Penang), and St Pio Friary (Ulu Tiram).

“Bro Dominic is a loving person. If he is still young and healthy, he would be now walking around and smiling at everyone,” said Fr Cheong.

Bro Dominic was led to the stage for the cake cutting ceremony. Bro Jason Raj OFM CAP, the youngest friar, garlanded him.

Lawrence, the nephew of Bro Dominic, clothed him with fine cloth. According to Indian culture, the guest of honour gets this respect as a token of gratitude towards the person’s contribution to people and society.

After that it was time for some performances. The first was by ‘The Band,’ which consists of 15 talented performers who played various instruments. The next performance was by the residents of St Francis Xavier home which included Archbishop Emeritus Soter Fernandez. The finale was a dance performance by the LSP staff.

At noon everyone adjourned for lunch.