Kuantan parish hosts ecumenical gathering

Feb 07, 2025

By Francis Leong
Sixteen pastors and leaders from Christian churches in and around Kuantan gathered at the Church of St Thomas the Apostle on January 25, 2025, to mark the conclusion of the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity.

The theme for this year’s Week of Prayer was Do you believe this? (John 11:26), chosen by the community of Bose, an ecumenical monastery in northern Italy.

Representatives from various local churches participated, including the Wesley Methodist Church, led by Pastor Christopher Rao; the Grace Charismatic Centre, represented by Bro Mundee Chan; and the Adonai Centre, led by Pastor Michael Yu. The gathering began with a Scripture reading from John 11:17-27, highlighting Martha’s declaration of faith in response to Jesus’ question.

In his opening remarks, parish priest Fr George Packiasamy welcomed the participants, emphasising the importance of affirming a shared faith and the need to be agents of unity, reconciliation, and hope in the world. He also reflected on the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed, a foundational statement of Christian faith, encouraging all present to continue striving for unity as agents of Christ’s love.

Rev Christopher Rao built on the theme by focusing on Martha’s unwavering faith, suggesting that Christians, by centering on the Lord and His word, can rise above differences and unite in shared belief. Bro Mundee Chan also shared reflections from John 17:20-21 and Ephesians 4:3-6, reinforcing the call to unity and harmony among believers.

The event concluded with a time of fellowship and refreshments at the Parish Community Centre, providing a meaningful opportunity for participants to connect informally.