Stella Maris International School revives Catholic identity with daily Masses

Dec 22, 2023

KUALA LUMPUR: In response to the evolving landscape of Christian Mission Schools, Stella Maris International School in Damansara has undertaken a deliberate effort to reaffirm its Catholic identity. In a time where educational priorities often overshadow religious observances, the school has initiated a significant change to embed its Catholic character more prominently within its ethos.

The cornerstone of this revitalisation has been the introduction of daily Masses at the school’s chapel throughout the school week. These morning Masses aim to nurture the spiritual well-being of students and uphold the school’s Catholic identity amidst the contemporary emphasis on global education and academic excellence.

To further reinforce this commitment, Fr Alvin Ho, SJ, assumed the role of the school’s chaplain as of August 1, 2023. Fr Alvin’s primary focus involves fostering the spiritual health and pastoral care of every member of the school community, irrespective of their religious beliefs.

Since the introduction of these daily Masses, the Catholic students, faculty, and staff have been granted the opportunity to participate in the sacred ritual within the tranquil confines of the school’s chapel. The Masses, scheduled for half an hour starting at 7.30am, does not interfere with the school’s regular academic timetable. Special votive Masses commemorate significant occasions like Children’s Day and Teachers’ Day in lieu of the regular feria.

Tyler Zachary Kasavan, a Primary Year 4 student, consistently volunteers as an altar server for these Masses. His commitment to arriving early illustrates his profound connection with the spiritual essence of the Mass. For Tyler, standing by the altar during the Eucharistic consecration evokes a profound sense of closeness to God.

Another Primary Year 4 student, Hailey Toh, has embraced the opportunity to serve as the only female altar server. Alongside Tyler, she alternates between carrying the cross and the processional candle during the Mass, embracing the privilege with grace and honour.

The chapel is full on Fridays when the Secondary students follow up with their society meetings after Mass, otherwise it could be about 35 students, teachers and staff on any normal day. Sr Nora Gomez FMM, who is the Catholic Student Affairs officer, said that it would take time to get the students’ engagement at Mass but was happy to note the number of increasing attendees

Margaret Soo, President of Stella Maris International School, affirms the significance of these daily Masses, which she says is a testament to the school’s dedication to its ethos. “The Mass is the central aspect of Catholic lives and the primary way in which Catholics worship God as a community.”

In his brief homilies, Fr Alvin imparts essential lessons, particularly directed at the Primary pupils, focusing on two fundamental aspects of God’s nature: love and the sending of His Son for humanity’s salvation.