We are called to transform society

Nov 13, 2015

By Bernard Anthony
Some 1,400 Catholics, from far and near, converged at St Jude’s Church in Gopeng on Oct 25, to celebrate the feast of St Jude, with Novena, Mass and Procession. The theme was St Jude Sent To Transform Society.

The four-day celebration began on Oct 22 and culminated on Oct 25. Parish Administrator, Fr Andrew Stephen, concelebrated the multilingual Mass, with Fr Gerard Theraviam, Rector of College-General, Penang who gave the homily.

At the beginning of Mass, Fr Gerard said that, with St Jude, we are sent to transform society. We are asked to be sent, to go out with love, hope and trust in God. But, sometimes, we like to be in our own shell.

In his homily, Fr Gerard referred to the Gospel Reading  from St. Mark about Bartimaeus. He said that the name ‘Bartimaeus’ means ‘son of Timaeus.’ He was blind, and his name forgotten, marginalized in society, who only knew his father’s name. No one cared for him as he sat on the road side. We gave up on him. But Bartimaeus didn’t give up. He shouted for Jesus. He was consistent and persistent in his prayers. Unfortunately, not all of us are  like that, and we have given up on Jesus.

Fr Gerard added that Bartimaeus went to Jesus and, because of his faith in God, his blindness was healed. “Those who have faith, their prayers will be answered.

“We are afraid to help people because, sometimes, we are afraid of what others would think or say. But, ultimately, we are called to share the Good News. Jesus said ‘Go’ to Bartimaeus; his sight had returned and he followed Jesus along the road.”

Fr Gerard urged the parishioners to join hands with others to transform society. “We are called to be the light and salt of the world.” To transform society means to change it for the better. In the BECs, look beyond the Catholic family, help others in society.

” He continued, saying that, as Malaysia is now facing political and economic turmoil, we must register as voters. We must take part in the political process as we are part of society. We are called to be an apostolate people. We need to come out of our comfort zone and go and transform society.

After Mass, many came forward for the Blessing of the Sick. Then the procession in honour of Our Lord began.  Fr Andrew carried the monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament and led the procession.  The icon of St Jude, hand carried by several lay leaders, followed behind. The rest of the assembly also processed around the Church grounds.