Volunteers spread kindness through collaborative mission

Nov 24, 2023

By Christina Sharmini Dass
The Creation Justice Ministry of the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur joined hands with the Tzu Chi Foundation for a special mission at Taman Sinar Harapan welfare home in Kuala Kubu Baru during the festival of lights on November 12.

Led by Archbishop Julian Leow and Fr Andrew Manickam OFM Cap, 25 volunteers from the archdiocese, alongside 125 dedicated volunteers from the Tzu Chi Foundation, gathered at the Home to extend care to its 200 residents.

The Taman Sinar Harapan home provides a safe haven for individuals aged 15 and above who have faced abandonment, have learning disabilities, are orphaned, lack guardianship, or require rehabilitation. Within its walls, diverse wards cater to the needs of the male and female residents. The volunteers who came that day engaged in various activities, including tending to the residents’ needs by making beds, cleaning the premises, grooming, massaging, and bathing, all carried out with a language spoken universally: kindness.

Reflecting on the experience, Maryann Valentine, one of the volunteers, expressed, “This experience opened my mind and heart and made me aware of the plight of others. Music and kindness are the universal languages that transcend all borders. Experiencing the residents’ happiness when we sing to them, cut their nails, massage their hands was lovely.”

Following the activities, the volunteers gathered to share their reflections, emphasising gratitude for their own blessings and the opportunity to extend kindness to those in need. The day culminated in a shared vegetarian meal, fostering bonds among the volunteers.

The Creation Justice Ministry extended gratitude to the Tzu Chi Foundation for their partnership in this collaborative mission. They offered prayers for all involved, emphasising the importance of continuing to be the guiding light and source of support through small yet meaningful actions.