Migrants’ celebration at St John’s Cathedral

Oct 14, 2015

By Bernard Anthony
The celebration of Migrant Sunday at the Cathedral of St John the Evangelist (SJC) was in two parts. Archbishop Julian Leow presided at the multi-lingual Mass coordinated by the SJC Migrants Ministry on Sept 13.

Hundreds of migrants, mainly from the Philippines, Myanmar and Vietnam attended. Also present were worshippers from the African continent. Some were dressed in their national attire. There were other nationalities too and the regular local Catholics.

The national flags of Malaysia, the Philippines, Myanmar and Vietnam were brought in during the Entrance Procession. Archbishop Leow said that we are all pilgrims, journeying towards our final destination, heaven.

The prelate asked us to share our faith as missionary disciples to all those around us.

A brochure published by the AOHD for Migrant Sunday 2015 were also distributed. It contained Pope Francis’ summarized message for the 101st World Day of Migrants & Refugees themed: Church Without Frontiers, Mother To All as well as information on who the migrants are and how we can help.

On Sept 27, the second part of the Migrants’ celebration took place in the grounds of the Community Services Centre. SJC Rector, Msgr Leonard Lexson attended, the migrants were from the Philippines, Myanmar and Vietnam. After singing their respective national anthems and the Opening Prayer, Msgr Lexson delivered his speech and shared some pointers from the Pontiff’s message for Migrant Sunday.

The migrants then presented songs and dances from their respective countries. They also participated in the CAPe (Skill enhancement programme) and their exhibits were put up for sale to raise funds for the SJC Building Fund. A total of RM2,210/- was raised.

Later, everyone adjourned for lunch to conclude this year’s Migrants Sunday celebration at the parish.