St Mary’s parish celebrates feastday

Sep 20, 2024

TAPAH, Perak: The Church of St Mary, founded in 1895, celebrated its parish feast with a triduum from September 5-7. Deacon Richard Wilson from the Church of St Joseph, Batu Gajah, was the preacher for the triduum, with parish priest Fr James Pitchay celebrating the Masses.

On Day 1, Deacon Richard preached on the theme of Communion, emphasising that we are called to be rooted in the unity of the Holy Trinity – Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. He urged the congregation to anchor their lives in God’s love and to embody love in their hearts.

“Mary is a model of communion, participation, and mission,” said Deacon Richard, highlighting her submission to God. The Mass also included the anointing of the sick.

The celebration culminated on Day 3, with an evening Mass attended by approximately 500 parishioners, some of whom travelled from afar to join the novena, Mass, procession, and benediction. Deacon Richard spoke on Mission, explaining how blessings flow from the altar to the people of God, and from the Eucharist to the world. He encouraged the faithful to be “the salt of the earth and the light of the world.”

Regarding Mary, Deacon Richard reminded the congregation that her mission extended beyond giving birth to Jesus — it continues with the disciples and the Church today. “When we are on a mission with God, we must set aside personal agendas and ambitions to align with His will,” he said. “Let the Holy Spirit guide us as we follow Mary’s example of fulfilling the mission of Christ.”

He called for new ways of thinking, guided by the Holy Spirit, to foster communion, participation, and mission within the Church. He urged everyone to use their God-given talents to serve their brothers and sisters, bringing Christ into their lives and giving others the opportunity to encounter Him. He also emphasised the importance of justice, charity, and caring for both nature and one another, following Mary’s example.

The parish feast typically coincides with the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the patroness of this 129-year-old parish.

Fr James noted that many faithful attended to seek Mary’s intercession and to offer thanks for answered prayers. He invited all to join the three-kilometre candlelight procession, a public witness of faith, through parts of Tapah town. The procession featured the Blessed Sacrament on one float and a statue of Mary on another, with the congregation praying the rosary throughout the 55-minute walk. Upon returning to the church, benediction was held.

Fr James expressed his gratitude to Deacon Richard for his insightful preaching and to all who contributed their time and efforts to make this year’s feast a meaningful celebration. The festivities concluded with a communal dinner in the parish hall, where fellowship was enjoyed by all. --Bernard Anthony