Uniting communities at World Day of the Poor initiative
In a concerted effort to observe the seventh World Day of the Poor, district level events were organised by the Ministry of the Poor, under the Archdiocesan Office for Human Development.
Dec 01, 2023
KUALA LUMPUR: In a concerted effort to observe the seventh World Day of the Poor, district level events were organised by the Ministry of the Poor, under the Archdiocesan Office for Human Development.
The event, a testament to the global significance of combatting poverty, brought together communities in a unified stance against neglecting those in need. Encouraging collective action, participants rallied to extend support to the most vulnerable among them.
A multifaceted approach characterised the event, featuring a blend of religious observances and community-driven initiatives with the celebration of Mass and the Kindness Community Bazaar.
At the Cathedral of St John the Evangelist in Kuala Lumpur, a haven for the homeless and urban poor emerged, offering a bazaar providing complimentary haircuts, food provisions, and essential supplies, courtesy of dedicated volunteers.
Collaborative efforts echoed in Petaling district, as the Church of St Ignatius joined hands with local entities such as Majlis Perbandaran Petaling Jaya, Perkeso, Sri Maha Mariamman Temple, and Nurul Yaqin Mosque in Kelana Jaya. The bazaar facilitated not only provisions but also employment prospects overseen by Perkeso.
Across locations like the Church of the Sacred Heart, Peel Road and Chapel of Christ the Light in Kepong, similar initiatives unfolded, featuring mobile clinics, dental screenings and comprehensive aid packages to those in need.
Expressing solidarity, the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes in Klang and the Church of St Thomas in Kuantan organised their own bazaars, extending vital assistance to communities facing hardships.
The Church of the Visitation in Seremban commemorated the occasion with a Eucharistic celebration, emphasising the spiritual significance of the event.
Archbishop Julian Leow presided over the Mass at the Church of the Sacred Heart and made visits to the bazaars at the Cathedral of St John, Chapel of Christ the Light, and Church of St Ignatius.
Commending the tireless efforts of the parishes involved, the archbishop underscored the reciprocal nature of giving, remarking, “They provide us with the opportunity to exhibit generosity. If there were no sick or poor among us, would we still be generous? Would we genuinely care for others, even our neighbours?” — By Aaron Koh, Coordinator for Ministry of the Poor
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