Youth volunteering at vaccination centres

Jun 26, 2021

By Prof Chris Ng
St Therese of Lisieux reminds us that “nothing is small in the eyes of God. Do all that  you do with love.” Volunteering is a way to demonstrate our love for our neighbours. Furthermore, service  of others is enshrined in the social  teaching of the Church. Christ set an  example for us by tirelessly and lovingly serving all humanity (Mk 10:  35-45).

The COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage the world and solidarity in vaccination is crucial to combat this crisis. Thus, we have to accelerate the vaccination process. In Malaysia, the government has  set up multiple vaccination centres  and volunteers, young and old, are needed. Let the Holy Spirit move us  to volunteer, visit MyVAC (Malaysia  Vaccine Support Volunteers) www. myvac.com.my to register.

Leading by example, Pope Francis has highlighted the importance of  volunteering, and has met with different volunteer groups on numerous occasions. He said “‘Good’ is  accomplished and is effective, especially when it is done without seeking recompense and visibility, in the concrete situations of daily life.”

We thank the Lord for the many  fine young women and men who  are volunteering at vaccination centres. They have responded to Pope  Francis’ call to the youths, “I ask you to build the future. Make the world  a better place. Please don’t see life  from afar. Live it. Jesus didn’t stay  out on a balcony. Instead, He got involved. Follow Jesus’ example.” Lindungi Diri, Lindungi Semua

See below for their sharings

“When I first started volunteering at the vaccination  centre, my main goal was to help  the frontliners in combating this  outbreak. However, meeting people of different ages made me realize how vital it is to be vaccinated  as cases increase. I urge all to join  in and help the frontliners in battling this pandemic! As mentioned  in Hebrews 13:16, “And do not  forget to do good and to share with  others, for with such sacrifices  God is pleased.” — Aaron Stone,  CSS, University of Malaya Vaccination Centre

“Volunteering has been a  great experience. Besides  handling the check-out counter,  we also manage the logistics flow. I have learned a lot about the challenges facing frontliners and the  very real problem of burnout. I  urge all who are hesitating to read  credible articles in making a decision. Kita bantu kita! — John  Paul Sim, CSS, UMMC Vaccination Centre

“Volunteering is one of the most amazing moments that I had experienced! I was helping at the registration counter to  ensure the vaccination process runs  smoothly, I also made new friends  from different faculties in UM as  well as meeting a lot of people and  seeing different nationalities. All in  all, I’m elated to be part of the volunteering team.” — Scholastica

“An opportunity of the century (literally!) to aid the  world in distress. I decided to  join when the darkness of men  manifested in forms of racism,  discrimination and denial. I advise all to let fear motivate you,  but never let it paralyse you.  Join us, so that we may still call  earth home.” — Adrian Goh  CR, Church of Our Lady of  Guadalupe, Selangor. Sunway Pyramid Convention Vaccination Centre

“This volunteering opportunity has taught me patience and empathy when dealing with the older generation, as their languages and needs were catered differently; the key to it is assurance. It was a memorable experience and I highly encourage all to join us in service to humanity” — Grace Goh XZ, Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Selangor. Sunway Pyramid Convention Vaccination Centre