Christian Federation Of Malaysia - General Elections Message
As our nation prepares for the coming elections, we call on all Christians to be conscious of your responsibility as good citizens and to exercise your right to vote. Do familiarize yourselves with biblical principles on issues central to you and our nation, information on candidates and programmes of the various political parties. Pray for discernment and foresight.
In order to cast votes responsibly, we invite you to prayerfully CONSIDER THE FOLLOWING:
A. What the bible says about our primary concerns.
Based on the opinion poll commissioned by The Star newspaper, the cost of living, social issues, crime rates and illegal immigrants are central to the concerns of the survey participants. As Christians, we are also concerned about issues which God is concerned about.
In the Bible we learn that God is righteous and just, merciful and loving. Whilst he has given us freedom of choice, he wills a good life for all human beings in a society that is spiritually and morally grounded.
God desires peace and goodwill among all people. In and through his love, we are called to cultivate neighborliness, and promote harmony built on mutual respect.
The threat to God's creation is apparent today. God has called humans to act as responsible stewards. The protection of the resources of the earth is for the benefit of all God's creation.
B. Political Parties: Their Policies And Delivery of Promises
Assess the political parties on the basis of their policies and promises, their stand on various issues related to justice and fair play, citizens' rights, national unity, economic development, protection of the environment and welfare of those who are sick, disabled and poor. Is there integrity, honesty and efficiency? Have the parties delivered on their promises? Do their political views and policies reflect God's standard and Christian values?
C. Candidates
Examine carefully the ability of candidates, their standard of accountability, integrity, values and leadership skills. Pay attention to their past performance and for their stand on issues related to constitutional rights, civil liberties and the freedom of religion. Have they been consistently accessible and available?
MAKE EVERY EFFORT TO PRAY for candidates in your constituency, the issues herein highlighted and the outcome of the General Elections. Set aside time to pray daily. Organize and participate in local church prayer programmes. We owe to God, ourselves, our future generations and our country to exercise responsibly our privilege to pray and our democratic right to vote. We aspire with all Malaysians to live in a nation, where all citizens may enjoy freedom, love, justice, peace, stability and economic prosperity.
The Christian Federation of Malaysia joins all other Malaysians in expressing the wish that the coming ELECTIONS WILL BE FAIR and there will be no attempt by politicians to publicly misrepresent or miscast any particular issue, or subject any community to unfair and adverse publicity for the purpose of political gain.
MAY GOD'S SPIRIT GUIDE EACH AND EVERY ONE OF YOU to make wise decisions in casting your votes. May the results of the elections be fair and representative of the will of the people of Malaysia, trusting that God's purpose will always prevail above the affairs of human beings.
Grace and peace to all. Thank you.
Bishop Paul Tan Chee Ing, SJ
Chairman
Bishop Datuk John Lee
Vice-chairman
Rev. Dr. Thomas Philips
Vice-chairman
Rev. Eu Hong Seng
Vice-chairman
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Easter: The Risen Christ's Presence In Our Midst, Says Bishop
KENINGAU(CS Online).- In his Easter message released Feb 27, Bishop Cornelius Piong of Keningau stressed that Easter celebrates the Risen Christ's presence in our midst.
This was, he said, the "good news which encouraged and strengthened the disciples to witness that he is indeed the Saviour of the world" (Acts 13:23).
"What is astonishing is why people find it difficult to accept, believe and be grateful for the presence of Jesus among them," he said.
He pointed out that the reality of Jesus' incarnation was recorded in John's Gospel: "The Word was made flesh and dwelt among us" (1:14).
But when Jesus came he was rejected by his own people (Mk 6:6).
Nevertheless, we have the witness of those who have believed and experienced his presence, that Christ has truly risen.
The bishop then cited Mother Teresa of Calcutta and Pope John Paul II as examples of those who witnessed to the presence of Christ among us.
He then asked: "As Jesus' disciples, do we believe and witness that he has risen, is alive and present in our daily life?"
He pointed out that to accept, believe in and be grateful for Jesus' presence in our daily life are a decisive factor in transforming our cultural attitudes and values, of our worldview.
He said, "If we observe what is happening around us, we are very far from what is expected or required of us by God."
The gap between the rich and the poor is a reality although it is denied by the world including Malaysia, he wrote.
The destruction of the natural world such as illegal logging and rainforests happened in Sabah although it has been denied, he continued.
He pointed out that "a lot of things happening in the world that demean human dignity and the family but who cares?"
The bishop observed that "a consequence of the disbelief in God is the loss of trust among human beings."
"Who else can be trusted?" he asked.
Easter celebration reminds us of the mission and sacrifice made by Jesus in bringing humanity back to the original plan of God, he said.
The bishop also wrote, "Although peace and justice that we desire cannot be attained as long as Jesus the LivingOne, source of peace and justice, is not reigning in our hearts and families."
He reminds the faithful that "Easter brings hope but also challenges us as Jesus' disciples to be aware, to value and love him in the Eucharist, in his people and in creation."
Through this awareness, appreciation and love for the Risen Jesus in our daily life, we will surely cultivate a culture of worship, faith formation and be socially responsible as Jesus' disciples, he continued.
This is possible because the Risen Jesus has given the guarantee that "I will be with you always, to the end of times" (Mt 28:20), he pointed out.
"He wants to empower us to live in unity,under his protection and holiness (Jn 17:1-26)," he said.
"Let us then live in such a way, whether individually or in our family, that we are faithful to Jesus and his will so that we can daily witness to his presence within and among us", he concluded.
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New Age Rosary Warning
These rosaries have appeared on sale at pilgrimage centres across Europe and are in most cases, given away for free.
They are made from cheap plastic and come in white, blue or pink, stamped having been made in Italy, yet no one knows who has produced them.
Since they are available at places of pilgrimage this makes people automatically think they are fine to use.
Information regarding the danger of these rosaries was given at the Marian Cenacle in Limoges, France, on 14 March 2005.
Why are they considered New Age?
They are considered New Age due to their symbolism which is not too easy to see except by a close inspection of the crucifix, which shows a very sinister story.
Behind the figure of Christ there can be seen a caduceus, which is an upright pole, representing mediation between heaven and earth.
It is an ancient herald's wand which was carried by messenger gods like Hermes or mercury. The rod is a also a divining rod to measure the earth and its energies of power.
The serpent Satan is shown behind the figure of Christ and is depicted by a coiled serpent which means latent power, concealed but not yet fully manifest, a dormant power.
It may represent to satanists that the devil is co-messianic, co-redeemer and co-christ, etc.
The circles on the crucifix are from Egyptian, Graeco-Roman, Phoenician Baal symbols called the pentagram, which is a major occult sign.
The circles or pentagrams have five points, which represent spirit, fire, earth, water and air.
The pentagram at the bottom is upside down, representing a goat. The four circles with dots in the centre signifies gold or the sun in alchemy. In general, the meaning is "The resolution of all possibilities."
Christ does not share any platform with any other god, philosophy, belief system or minor deity, least of all, Satan.
The depiction of Christ on the cross is placed in the most prominent place of worship, adoration, veneration, glorification for Catholics and many other Christians.
Now satanists or 'new agers' have placed Satan alongside Christ. Some have even said that if these rosaries are blessed, they lose any negative power.
However, this cannot be assured for it is not known what curse, spell or hex has been placed on these rosaries.
Anyway, does anyone really want to pray on a rosary that depicts Satan?
What do I do if I am given one of these rosaries?
If you are offered or given one of these rosaries, break it and throw it away. That way it will lose its power as it is incomplete.
There are a small minority of UK suppliers who have bought some of these rosaries and are trying to push people to buy them.
I assume they do not completely understand the seriousness of its symbolism.
Tell your friends about these rosaries so that they are aware of its dangers.
Why has this happened?
Over the years, especially in the last century, Our Lady has been firm and very explicit regarding the power of the rosary being the weapon against Satan.
Therefore, would it not be fair to say that the New Age rosary is but one of the signs that dark powers are trying to undermine her crusade?
More details can be sourced from .
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Different Commissions To Work Together To Promote Growth Of Christian Families
PENAMPANG(CS).- During the meeting of the commission heads and members with Bishop John Lee Feb 19 at the Catholic Diocesan Centre (CDC) here, the participants agreed to work together to promote growth of Christian families.
This was an important outcome of the Congress on Family (COF) organised by the diocese last Nov 7-10 in Bundu Tuhan.
The bishop welcomed all present and exhorted them "not to be conformed to this world but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may prove what is the will of God, what is good and acceptable and perfect" (Rom 12:2).
He then said the focus of the meeting was to discuss on the direction of the commissions after the congress: how the commissions can work together to promote growth of Christian families.
Neil Mah, executive officer of the Catholic Pastoral Centre (CPC), briefed all present on the latest development in family programme at diocesan level after COF.
One result, he said, was the establishment of a secretariat comprising CPC and the Family Life Commission (FLC) to monitor, receive feedbacks from parishes and to coordinate implementation of family programmes for the diocese.
Mah also informed the participants that the Ad-Hoc Organising Committee had done the post-mortem, looked through the suggestions and recommendations and felt it is necessary as a first step, for parishes to reassess whether their pastoral plan and structures support and contribute to the growth of families psychologically, socio-economically and spiritually or not.
This assessment exercise is important to generate (i) wholistic approach in addressing family issues and problems, and (ii) effective means to channel whatever formation or resources appropriate to as many families as possible at grassroot level, Mah reported.
Mah also said that the Diocesan Pastoral Council (DPC) has agreed to the recommendation of the Ad-Hoc Organising Committee to organise orientations at regional level for those directly involved in helping the families in the parishes on the purpose and approach of the assessment exercise.
After all had spoken and given their views, the bishop stressed that all activities of the commissions should be geared towards helping to build up strong families.
He also pointed out the need for all the commissions to come together to address social issues such as migration and Islamisation.
After it was pointed that the commissions tend to function and work independently of each other, it was proposed that the commissions come together at the beginning of the year to do common planning and to do common evaluation at year end.
It was also proposed that the commissions come together to look at the SWOT Analysis (Strengths, Weaknesses, Opportunities, Threats) done by the FLC and adopt some common indicators.
A good way to start this collaboration would be the Sabah Youth Day II (SYD-2) in August.
The Catechetical Commission could look into how to put the message of SYD-2 across effectively; the Worship Commission to look into enhancing the liturgical celebrations and the FLC could help host families accommodating SYD-2 participants in the right spirit.
The FLC is in the process of establishing a counselling service centre for the diocese and has sought the help of two fully trained counsellors to assist, form a team of counsellors and run the centre.
To the issue of abortion being done rampantly, the bishop said that every commission has to adopt a pro-life attitude and help the faithful to do the same.
He said it all boils down to whether we take our faith seriously or not as "we are fighting against the current of the world" and exhorted the participants not to give up hope.
The commissions that took part in the meeting were the Commissions on Catechetics, Family Life, Social Communications, Worship and Youth and the Human Development Committee.
There were no representatives from the Bible and the Education Commissions.
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Reports Of The Diocesan Commissions
** Report 2007 **
1. Frequency of CCKK & Parish Catechetical Coordinators' (PCC) Meeting
CCKK met six times for formal meeting and occasionally met for informal discussion when necessary. The commission team and all parish catechetical coordinators met twice (March & Nov) to discuss catechetical matters. In the second meeting, the four parishes of the newly erected Sandakan Diocese were exempted.
2.Malaysian Catechetical Meeting (MCC) was held at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Institute (API) Kuala Lumpur on Feb 5-7.
3. Annual Retreat with the theme Family: A Nursery of Discipleship was held on Aug 16-19, Pace Bene Purak Papar, facilitated by Father Erik Jerome. It was also the sending off ceremony for the four parishes (Sandakan, Lahad Datu, Tawau & Telupid) of the new diocese.
4. Catechetical Sunday
Theme: Family: A Nursery of Discipleship
Most parishes were creative in organising activities to mark this event.
Examples were parish catechists' gathering, exhibition of catechetical activities, screening family-oriented movies like Tanging Yaman (Precious Treasure) - a Tagalog movie with BM subtitiles, drawing and colouring competion on family, bible quiz, stage show presenting chorus singing, storytelling and sketch based on the theme.
One parish had infant baptism that particular Sunday. Certain parishes declared September as Catechetical Month. The climax of the celebration was the commissioning of catechists and parents on Sept 16.
5. Catechists' Formation
The team went to the different parishes (Jan-Oct) to conduct spiritual formation for catechists and workshops on the Malaysian Catechetical Series (MCS). At the same time, the team also prepared the four parishes of the new diocese for the task ahead of them.
Most of the catechists are now familiar with the methodology of the new syllabus.
6. Seminar on the Church's Teaching on Marriage & Family
This was jointly organised with the Family Life and Women Commissions on March 17 at the Sacred Heart Parish Centre.
7. "A Day with Jesus Christ" Programme
This was organised for Sunday School children, aged 13-18, during school holidays throughout the year.
It received positive feedback from the participants and Sunday School facilitators with the suggestion to make it one of the activities that can be held outside class.
Imputs were on the importance of spiritual reading, media awareness, liturgy, sacraments, decision-making and sexuality.
8. BM catechetical songs used in Level 1 & 2 compilation & recording
An ongoing project, the recording will be done once the music notes are done.
9.Malaysian Catechetical Series (MCS)
CCKK Formation Team has finished translating and finalising the contents of MCS 3 & 9 "Learner's Book" and "Catechist's Guide" into BM.
Programme 2008
1. Ongoing Formation Programme
- To follow-up on the MCS implementation at parish/zone/outstation level
- To conduct post-Confirmation seminar at regional/parish level as requested by faith facilitators and parents
- To conduct faith instruction and recollection for catechists/parents/sponsors on their respective role and responsibilities in the faith formation of children
- To coordinate RCIA/Sunday School/Parish activities
- To come up with a diocesan catechetical brochure/directory (name/tel/email/address) for easier flow of information and communication among all parish catechetical committees
- To continue the practice of Catechists' Prayer Network in order to remain connected to each other in prayer and ministry
- To continue with the "A Day with Jesus Christ" Programme upon request from parish groups
2. CCKK Evaluation and Planning was held on Jan 9.
3. MCC Meeting
Members met Jan 28-29 at Rumah Retret Keuskupan Keningau (RRKK). Sandakan Diocese sent a representative, Sister Angela, who attended the meeting as an observer.
Father Paul Shie and Marjory Toidy of the Brunei Vicariate Catechetical Commission attended the meeting.
MCC Episcopal President Archbishop Emeritus Anthony Soter Fernandez was present to lend his support, experience and guidance.
Keningau Catechetical Commission Spiritual Director Father Boniface Kimsin chaired the meeting.
Among the observations made:
- The importance of ongoing formation for all catechists
- Penang Diocese will deliberate on designing a suitable training programme for catechists based on 'best practices' available nationwide
- Post-confirmation programmes to be drawn up at parish/diocesan level
- The use of MCS in East Malaysia is very encouraging
- The use of MCS in West Malaysia needs to be encouraged
- Brunei Vicariate has initiated use of MCS
- RCIA programme to be reviewed next year
- MCC constitution to be reviewed next year
- Theme for Catechetical Sunday: Make the Word your Home (Jn 14:23)
- Father Kimsin will prepare the message/reflection
Members also brainstormed creative ways of celebrating Catechetical Sunday at parish level to encourage maximum participation by parishioners.
As a final statement, all the members strongly recommend the use of MCS in all Malaysian parishes.
4. Commission Heads' Meeting with Bishop John Lee: Feb 19
5. CCKK & PCC Meeting: April 5 & Nov 15
6. Goodwill Visit to Sibu Diocese: June 3-8
7. Annual Retreat: July 31 - Aug 3, Pace Bene Purak
8. Catechetical Sunday: Sept 21
9. Ongoing translation of MCS Level 4 & 10 into BM
10. Compiling and recording catechetical songs for Level 1 & 2 into CD
11. Collecting and compiling catechetical resources/references from all parishes
Availability of Malaysian Catechetical Series (MCS)/Siri Katekatik Malaysia (SKM)
English
Level 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 9
Level 4 & 10 are expected to arrive in the Books Distribution Centre in April.
Bahasa Malaysia
Tahap 1, 2, 7, 9
Tahap 3 & 9 will be available in April.
Level 4 & 10 are in the process of translation into BM, followed by Level 5 & 6.
For ordering or more information, please contact:
Imelda Wong & Agatha Tsen, Books Distribution Centre, Lorong Hiburan 3, Taman Hiburan, Jalan Penampang, P.O. Box 10225, 88802 Kota Kinabalu, Sabah. Tel: 088-712416, Fax: 088-713435, Email: catholicsc@yahoo.com. Open: 08:00 am - 12:00 noon; 2:00 pm - 5:00 pm
Catholic Women's League Commission (CCWL)
** Report 2007 **
1. Recollection Day: All regional and parish CWLs conducted their recollection day before August.
2. 22nd Annual Assembly (retreat and general meeting)
It was held Nov 21-24 at the Bundu Tuhan Retreat Centre. The theme of the gathering was "Women in the Bible in Relation to CWL Ministry," facilitated by Father Michael Modoit. 240 participants.
3. Seminar on Church's Teaching on Marriage & Family
Around 300 members attended this seminar held March 17 at the Sacred Heart Parish Centre.
The speakers were Father Fundes Motiung, Janet Chee, Anthony and Monica Kong and Anthony Lim.
It was also held in Sandakan for members in the East Coast in May.
4. Visits (Meetings/Dialogue Sessions)
Carried out from August to September. All CWL Regional Coordinating Committees (six subcommittees) visited at least two groups of CWL within their jurisdiction.
5. Pilgrimage to Europe
Fifty people took part in the pilgrimage to Italy (Rome, Lanciano, Rotondo, Loreto & Assisi), France (Nevers & Lourdes), Spain (Loyola & Avila) and Portugal (Fatima & Santarem) Sept 17 - Oct 4 with Bishop John Lee as Spiritual Director.
6. CWL Chain Prayer & Bible Sharings
Held fortnightly every month and weekly in May and October. Parish groups met weekly.
7. Seminarians' Fund
All CWL groups contributed to the Fund, an annual project of the commission. Each parish CWL handed the contribution directly to the bishop. The contribution varied from parish to parish.
8. Meetings
CCWL met five times during the year while the Area Coordinating Committees, subcommittees met once in two months.
** Plans for 2008 **
1. Recollection Day
Parish level: before August
Regional level: Sept
2. Retreat for Coordinators: May 12-24, Bundu Tuhan Retreat Centre, to be facilitated by Bishop John Lee
3. 23rd CWL Diocesan Assembly: Nov 19-22. 240 members expected to attend.
4. Leadership Skills
Kudat Zone: April 5
West Coast 2: July 19
West Coast 3: Aug 2
West Coast 1: Sept 20
5. Visits
West Coast 1: St Thomas Kepayan, Church of Mary Immaculate
West Coast 2: St Peter Claver Ranau
West Coast 3: Holy Family Telipok, St James Tenghilan
Kudat Zone: St Edmund Kota Belud, St Peter Kudat
6. 6th Conference of East Malaysian Catholic Women
Participants: 50 members and four religious sisters
Venue: Kuching
Date: Aug 16-21
Theme:Towards a Caring Generation
7. Seminarians' Fund
CCWL will continue to ensure that all parish CWLs contribute to it.
7. Parish Activities
CWL members in the parishes have been urged to organise at least one project/activity to include all women in their respective parishes with the focus on the family.
8. Bishop's Birthday: Oct 30
9. CCWL Meetings
Jan 24, Apr 10, July 3, Sept 4, Nov 13
Education Commission
** Report 2007 **
1. Instrument of Government of Government-aided School
Instrument of School Management Board was amended to give authority to the bishop to reappoint the chairman of the board upon the expiry of two consecutive terms. The amendment took effect Jan 7.
2. Education Act
On the request of Father Cosmas Lee, the commission directed Jeyan Marimuttu to form a team to re-study the Education Act to verify the powers of the Board of Governors of Mission Schools. The study was undertaken by six Catholic lawyers headed by Marimuttu. A report on the findings has been submitted to the bishop and Lee. A copy was also furnished to MCEC.
3. Not Enough Qualified Candidates
As in previous years, the commission faced the challenge of not having enough qualified candidates for recommendation to head Catholic schools, including the Catholic Chinese schools.
4. SRK St Anthony Dontozidon
The Board of Governors had decided to keep and maintain the school.
Parents and school authority expressed concern over the safety of the teachers and students after a landslide occurred, affecting some part of the school area. A few JKR engineers and personnel as well as Education Dept officers carried out inspections to see whether the school was still safe to accommodate the daily school schedules. The school head informed that the affected areas had been attended to and for now, the school has been declared safe to continue the school's daily schedule.
A meeting was held and attended by the BOG, PIBG and the school authority. The minutes of the meeting will be furnished to the commission office and to the bishop.
5.SM St Peter Telipok
With the consent of the Church, the parents and BOG, it was agreed that the school will be taken over by the Education Ministry, as it involved a huge amount of maintenance costs and to relocate the school to a safer place. It takes a time frame of two years for the turn-over process and relocation. To date, there is no information received regarding the new site by the ministry.
Brief report from the principal, Mary Komuji, that the new intake for Form One students was reduced to only three classes this year. The school had also received grants of RM170,000 for the school repairs last year. Komuji is hoping that the commission will continue to follow-up on the relocation by the ministry.
6. Private Kindergarten Convention
Winnie Kual represented the commission to attend the convention at Empress Hotel Sepang KL on April 28.
She reported that all the Mission Kindergartens have complied with the requirements and are officially registered witht the Education Department.
7. MCEC Subsidy to Commission
MCEC contributed the monthly subsidy of RM800 to the commission. However, it has not received any information from the MECE on the continuity of the subsidy for 2008.
** Plans for 2008 **
1. Catholic Teachers Retreat
It was proposed to hold the retreat in Lent this year but it is not possible as the teachers are too busy during this time of the year.
2. Educators' Conference
This will be organised on June 1-3 at Pace Bene Retreat Centre Purak.
Theme: Strengthening Educators' Values
Topics: 1) Keynote address from the Bishop; 2) Understanding the World of the Young Today; 3) Re-defining Christian Educators Today; 4) The Challenges of Catholic Educators Today... "Our Way Forward..."
Expected Participants: 250 educators covering the three dioceses; Sandakan and Keningau by invitation
Speakers: Brother Anthony Rogers fsc (KL), Brother John D'Cruz fsc (KL), Julia Jock, Anne Lasimbang, Commission members
3. Recognition of Teachers/Teachers' Award
This will be held towards end of this year. The commission needs more time to obtain recommendations and nominations from every zone for the award distribution.
4. Applications for grants for mission schools
In 2005, there were 47 mission school: 17 secondary, 28 primary and three taska/tadika requesting grants for renovation works, etc. This list was submitted to the government through MCEC. This was in response to the Education Minister's request to the mission schools to submit the application.
The secretariat is currently obtaining information from the relevant schools whether the grant has been received or not.
5. Updating data on mission schools
Forms have been distributed to the mission schools under the KK and Sandakan Dioceses last month, requiring the schools to update their 2008 data.
6. Retiring and replacement of school heads
The secretariat is maintaining an updated record of all heads retiring in 2008, 2009 and 2010.
For most recommended candidates only a handful have been accepted and most of them were rejected due to ineligibility and inadequacy to meet the requirements by the Education Dept.
To source for a Catholic candidate is a constant challenge, with lack of cooperation from the Education Dept.
However, the secretariat is working closely with some current heads to give information on those heads currently in service in the government schools.
Family Life Commission (FLC)
** Report 2007 **
1. 1st Bishops' Institute of Lay Apostolate (BILA I) on Family
Two members went with Bishop John Lee to attend the seminar June 11-16, Pattaya, Thailand.
Theme: Avenues/Approaches to Respond to the Challenges in Pastoral Care to Families in the 21st Century
The commission gave the country report for Malaysia.
The 76 delegates, including 10 bishops, were from 13 Asian countries.
Issues raised:
- Large scale migration for employment compromises emotional well-being of couples, children and family members
- New work culture of dual income families, or a spouse travelling frequently, or unlimited working hours hamper spousal and parent-child relationships
- An increase in live-in relationships, trial marriages and divorces
- Growing affluence affects traditional family values which are being eroded by materialism, consumerism and individualism promoted by media
- The reality of interreligious marriages and a growing need to sensitise and explain to our youths the complexities and consequences (esp in the Malaysian context).
However, these marriages could become a venue for interreligious dialogue and to bring about understanding and harmony to a wider society.
Recommendations: There were 12 recommendations made for programmes at the diocesan/parish level and two at the regional level, which were detailed in the May-Aug 2007 issue of FABC-OLF "Laity."
2. Workshop on "Building Stronger Support for Families in Southeast Asia"
This was organised Oct 13-15 at Samphran Thailand in line with the FABC recommendation to network and collaborate within the region to share expertise/resources among countries and to exchange information.
FLC Thailand organised the event; Father Charles Sim sj of Singapore was appointed coordinator by the bishops present.
Issues identified:
- Establishing an effective and vibrant organisation for the family apostolate
- Volunteer management: recruiting, training/formation and retaining of volunteers
- Training of lay counsellors and the establishment of counselling centre in the diocese
- Creating effective publicity for the services in the diocese.
Participating countries/dioceses are expected to submit progress reports at the subsequent symposium for bishops and lay collaborators on "Family Life and the Church: Current Issues and Challenges" to be held on 25-27 April 2008 in Singapore.
3. SWOT Analysis on Family Life
Done by the commission in preparation for the workshop in Samphran.
4. Congress on Family
The commission thanked the Bishop and the Diocesan Pastoral Council for allowing the commission to be part of the organising team for the congress held Nov 7-10.
A CD containing all inputs, recommendations and reports would be sent to all parishes to help them initiate programmes and projects to strengthen the faith and love in families.
Each parish is expected to form a special committee and work together with the Parish Pastoral Council to focus on the family in all its pastoral initiatives by the different groups and ministries.
** Plans for 2008 **
1. Diocesan Counselling Service Centre
As planned in 2007, the commission is in the midst of organising a series of training for counsellors and caregivers, the first of which will be held March 1.
Eleven parishes in and around Kota Kinabalu are invited to send two participants who are expected to be part of a team of well-trained, competent and committed persons of faith to provide or help to provide counselling services.
As of now, we have two registered counsellors who are willing to give their time and service on Saturdays, to provide training and to supervise caregivers.
2. Review of Pre-Nuptial Guidelines
The commission will form a working committee comprising representatives from various parishes to update the contents of the pre-nuptial seminar, taking into consideration current needs and changes.
3. Secretariat on Diocesan Family Programme (Catholic Pastoral Centre and Family Life Commission)
As a follow-up to the Congress on Family 2007, Bishop John Lee, in his circular to the parish rectors and pastoral councils dated 17 January 2008, informing them that he has set up this secretariat to monitor, receive feedbacks and assist parishes in their implementation of family life programmes.
Conclusion
At the post-mortem meeting of the Congress on Family, one of the findings was that commissions appeared to work independently and there was no communication with one another on programmes or activities organised.
However, it was a satisfying and enriching experience when the five commissions, the Catholic Pastoral Centre and the Human Development Committee work together and collaborate with one another.
Social Communication Commission (SOCCOM)
** Report 2007 **
1. Workshop/Seminar conducted
i) basic Journalism Workshop was conducted in Labuan March 23-25; 17 participants
ii) Basic Soccom Seminar was held in Kota Kinabalu Aug 25; 10 participants.
2. World Communication Day (WCD)
It was jointly organised with Keningau Diocese at Katedral St Francis Xavier. One of those who took part in the 2006 essay writing competition received her prize there from Bishop Cornelius Piong. An exhibition booth was held to increase the media awareness of the faithful.
3. Regional Commission for Social Communications (RCSC) Meeting
Members turned up in full force to help in the organisation of the regional meeting at the Bundu Tuhan Retreat Centre June 25-26.
All representatives took turns to report on media activities organised in their respective arch/dioceses.
One outcome would be the organisation of a journalism workshop in Miri in November.
Another future joint project would be the organisation of the Malaysian Media Awards for Christian & secular media.
It was agreed by all to have a half-day recollection before the start of the meeting in June 2008 in Kuching.
4. Appreciation Dinner
In conjunction with the golden jubilee of Catholic Sabah (CS), an Appreciation Dinner was organised Oct 23 in Tanjung Aru in honour of all those who have contributed in one way or another in the growth of the paper.
Tokens of Appreciation were given to two deserving recipients who have served and are still serving the faithful through the paper for 26 and 50 years respectively.
5. FABC-OSC Bishops' Meeting
Head of commission attended the said meeting organised by the Office of Social Communication of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC-OSC) in Bangkok Nov 26-30. She gave the regional report (Malaysia-Singapore-Brunei) to the 35 participants comprising bishops, priests, religious and laity in charge of diocesan media offices.
Theme of the meeting was "Eucharist as Communication."
The participants also attended the Thai Media Awards Nov 29.
6. CS Contributers
The members contributed articles to Catholic Sabah and also served as editorial board members.
7. Diocesan Website
The commission took charge of the diocesan website and updated it regularly.
** Plans for 2008 **
1. Basic Journalism Seminar (BJS)
The commission will continue to conduct BJS per request of interested parish groups.
2. Recollection Day: Before May 4
3. World Communication Day Celebration: May 4
4. RCSC Meeting: June 30 - July 2, Kuching
5. Recruitment Drive
Since one of the members will be transferred to Nabawan Tambunan March 29, remaining members will have a recruitment drive to get more interested people into the commission.
Worship Commission (WC)
** Report 2007 **
1. Networking with parish liturgical committees
Parishes submitted their list of liturgy committee, reported on their parish's worship life and indicated areas that needed help and assistance.
Most reports indicated generally there is improvement in worship life, the youth do not know the liturgy and the need for liturgical catechesis at all outstations.
Help/assistance needed from the commission:
- resource materials on liturgy
- formation on liturgy: courses, recollection, retreat, etc
- standardisation of liturgical practices
Observation: How to tackle all these?
? A need for a team of resource people for the commission
? Diocesan Liturgy Formation: invite all parish liturgical committees to come together for a weeklong (at least three full days) course concerning the new General Instruction of the Roman Missal (GIRM).
Topics: Mystery, Celebration, Minister & Ministries, Signs & Symbols, Responding to local needs, Assessment.
When? Date yet to be fixed pending Rome's approval of local adaptations to the new General Instruction of the Roman Missal.
2. Liturgical rites booklet
The commission helped to review, revise and publish up-to-date liturgical rites.
Booklets published:
i) Liturgical calendar & diary
ii) Funeral rites in Chinese
iii) Reprint of Holy Week booklet in BM
iv) Reprint of trilingual certificates (in English, BM Chinese) - Pre-nuptial, Marriage, Baptism, First Holy Communion and Confirmation.
3. Liturgy Seminars and Conferences
Attended and prepared materials for:
i) Regional Liturgy Commission meeting in Miri May 7-10
ii) Asia Liturgy Forum in Kuching Sept 2-6 with the focus on Sunday liturgical activities.
** Plans for 2008 **
1. Diocesan Liturgy Formation2. Review, revise and publish up-to-date liturgical rites
3. Attend liturgy seminars & conferences
4. Promote growth of family life through liturgy
Diocesan Youth Pastoral Team (DYPT) aka Youth Commission
I. Youth Ministry
** Report 2007 **
a. General Meeting/Formation
Held Jan 20 at the Catholic Diocesan Centre. 50 participants comprising youth leaders, coordinators and animators.
b. Recollection Day
Organised Feb 3 for St Joseph Papar youth leaders.
c. Formation
Given to TPBP Inanam "Pelayanan Belia" on Feb 11 and to St Joseph Papar on July 14-15.
d. Festival
Held at St Paul Dontozidon on May 25-27
e. Meeting
Team meeting on Oct 26.
f. Congress
Part of the organising team for the Congress on Family Nov 7-10.
g. Regional Meetings
i) Bishops' Institute of Lay Apostolate (BILA) on Youth II
Participated in the said meeting Nov 10-14 at Majodi Centre Johor. 92 participants (bishops, priests, religious and youth leaders).
Theme: Youth Ministry in Asia: Reliving the Emmaus Story
ii) Bishops' Institute of Christian Advocacy II (BICA II)
Part of the organising team for the said meeting held Dec 4-7 at Kinarut.
h. Sabah Youth Day 2 (SYD-2)
Co-organiser with Keningau and Sandakan teams of the above event, a continuation of SYD-1 held in Keningau in 2004.
Meetings were held on Feb 16, May 2, June 12 and 23 before the launching in Keningau on June 24 and on Aug 1 and 4.
The Youth Cross began its journey through KK Diocese in Labuan (Sept 1), Kepayan (Sept 8), Dontozidon (Sept 16), Tanjung Aru (Sept 22), Penampang (Sept 29), Kota Kinabalu (Oct 6), Papar (Oct 13), Limbahau (Oct 21), Inanam (Oct 27), Kionsom Inanam (Nov 3) and Telipok (Dec 29).
** Plans for 2008 **
1. Sabah Youth Day 2 (SYD-2) : Aug 19-23 in Ranau. 2,000 youth are expected to attend.
2. Faith Formation Programme
This is for Form Five students waiting for SPM results.
3. Survey
The team will organise a survey on the Eucharist at local /national level
4. World Youth Day
23 Sabahans will join the 225-delegation from West Malaysia for the event July 13-21 in Sydney, Australia.
II. Campus Ministry
** Report 2007 **
a. Kinabalu Camp 1
A formation programme for campus leaders with exposure to lifestyle of people living in rural/urban areas.
Three meetings on this were held on Jan 28, Apr 1 and May 20.
Forty-six campus leaders took part in the camp June 1-9 at Pace Bene Purak Papar. They had a three-night exposure programme either in a remote village, a rehabilitation centre, the Senior Citizens' Home in Penampang, Limbahau, Papar or Beaufort.
b. Meetings
i) Sabah Catholic Student Council (SCSC): Feb 18, Apr 13-14 (AGM), May 1, July 29
ii) Catholic Student Groups (CSG): CSG-UNITAR (Mar 4), CSG-UMS (Mar 23), CSG-IPG (May 20)
c. SITA Programme
Kota Kinabalu (Mar 31), Sandakan (June 30)
d. Formation
i) San Damiano Hostel student leaders: May 31
ii) CSG-PTPL: Aug 11
e) Planning Camp for CSG-AKMA May 18-20, CSG Centre KK
f) Spiritual Preparation for CSG-UNITAR before their Belia Masuk Kampung (BMK) Programme: May 24
g) Welcoming Junior Party (WJP)
Invited as resource personnel by CSG-UMS at their WJP
h) Campus Day (HWK-11)
Organised the HWK-11 Sept 7-9 for freshies of the different campuses at St Simon's Church Likas.
** Plans for 2008 **
1. Faith Formation for Student Leaders II (Kinabalu Camp-2)2. Hari Warga Kampus 12 (HWK-12)
Human Development Committee (HDC)
** Report 2007 **
1. Internal Migration
Reports of Sabahans being ill-treated, abused and shortchanged by recruitment agencies, employers and private colleges in Semenanjung spurred the Human Development Committee (HDC) to undertake the following:
a) Forum Kami Sedia Bantu (KSB), the objective of which was to create awareness on the need to prepare our Sabahan students or workers before they go over to Semenanjung, on April 21 at the Catholic Diocesan Centre Penampang. Over 90 participants from both KK and Keningau Dioceses came for the forum.
b) Brief VCD Documentary
This was jointly undertaken with the Sabahan pastoral workers in KL at the cost of RM2,500. The VCDs were widely distributed to both KK and Keningau Dioceses. Kuching Archdiocese requested for a sample.
c) Direktori KSB: a simple directory of contacts in Semenanjung and Singapore was updated and 5,000 copies were printed for distribution. Its objective is to enable Sabahans to know where to get help when in trouble.
2. Other Migration Issues
HDC was formed in 2004 to respond to issues related to migration. Since then it has maintained contact with groups outside the diocese:
a) International Catholic Migration Commission (ICMC): a meeting was held with its regional director March 9 to discuss a possible joint project on trafficking of Indonesian women and children to Sabah.
A project paper was prepared and submitted by ICMC to US funding agency in June. A few meetings were held with US Embassy officials related to concerns on human trafficking.
b) Bishops' Institute for Christian Advocacy II (BICA II)
The committee jointly organised the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences - Office for Human Development (FABC-OHD) on BICA II Dec 4-8.
The focus was on the "Migrant Family." Twenty-two from Sabah attended the workshop in Kinarut. HDC would take the issue further in 2008.
c) Non-Governmental Organisations (NGO)
HDC has exchange of information with Tenaganita, a KL-based NGO dealing with migrant issues, and with Migrant Working Group (MWG), a network of NGOs in Semenanjung.
3. Islamisation
a) A working paper on the impact of Islamisation on rural families was written.
The analysis pointed to the socio-economic needs as an underlying reason for conversion to Islam.
A discussion was held among a group of 18 concerned individuals on this issue Aug 30.
An "Exploratory Committee" was formed to do the follow-up. The committee met the Bishop Nov 20 and presented its suggestion. It was advised to start with a concrete project.
b) In line with the above, the idea of setting up "Caritas Sabah" is in the pipeline.
c) The leaflets prepared by the Bishops' Conference on conversion to Islam were widely distributed.
4. Compendium on the Social Doctrine of the Church
The launching of the Compendium for Asia region was held in Bangkok Jan 25-27. Dominic was invited by FABC-OHD to participate.
The HDC ordered 100 copies of the concise version prepared by Brother Anthony Rogers fsc as a preliminary step to promote the social doctrine. More than half have been sold.
In relation to this, HDC has visited and held dialogue with concerned parishioners in Sandakan, Tuaran, Penampang, Kota Belud for the setting up of a committee to promote the social teachings.
As of end of December, parishes which have set up HDC are Papar, Limbahau, Penampang, Kepayan, Tanjung Aru, Kota Belud, Kota Marudu, Bundu Tuhan, Ranau, Inanam, Telipok and Dontozidon.
** Plans for 2008 **
1. HDC will continue to focus on impact of migrant and Islamisation on the family.2. HDC will continue to work closely with groups which it has established links and network.
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Bishop Opens IY Academic Year
KOTA KINABALU(CS).- In his address to the aspirants (Intensive English Year) and Initiation Year (IY) students at the opening of the Academic Year Feb 18, Bishop John Lee remarked that this year was a historic year for it was the first time the Catholic Diocesan Centre in Penampang has so many aspirants (14). Along with the eight IY students the total number of candidates is 22.
He exhorted them to make the most of their formative experiences, to obey the directives of the formators and to cultivate a strong relationship with Jesus (prayer life).
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SHC Celebrates Parish Family Day With Telematch
KOTA KINABALU(CS).- Sacred Heart Cathedral and its subparishes of Mary Immaculate and St Simon celebrated its parish family day with telematches Feb 24 at the parish centre here.
This was the culmination of the activities organised to bring the parishioners closer to each other since last November.
It began with free lunch for all, followed by four games participated by 16 groups (mixture of adults and children), interspersed with lucky draws.
Father Wilfred Atin was on hand to open the day with a prayer and to serve in the food squad while Msgr Primus Jouil came later to give out prizes to the winning teams and individuals and to close it with a prayer as well. There was a short speech from Parish Pastoral Council Chairman Damian Lee.
Dion Fletcher, Rachel Khoo and Andrew A Mudi hosted the event.
Below is a breakdown of the games and activities organised and the names of the winning teams/individuals:
Telematch:
a. Sandwich Relay: won by Group 1
b. Balloon War: won by Group 5
c. Food Factor Challenge: won by Group 16
d. The Roman Chariot: won by Group 10
Prizes were given out to the winners of the other games held on other days
1. Children's Colouring Competition
Category A (5-6 yrs)
1st - Chelsy Deeronnie, 5
2nd - Michele Thien, 6
3rd - Vincent J Chew, 6
Category B (7-8 yrs)
1st - Elaine Soon, 8
2nd - Veronica Liew, 8
3rd - Myson Peter Jr, 8
2. Children's Drawing Competition
Category A (9-10 yrs)
1st - Ann Carnelian Spait
2nd - William Jude
3rd - Evelyn
Category B (11-12 yrs)
1st - Raphaella Ann Chong
2nd - Allison Thien
3rd - Junior Harley
3.Basketball: Won by Wasabi Group led by Calvin Kam
4. Futsal: Won by Borneo Tigers led by Gary Lester
5. Badminton (Doubles)
Match A (8-15 yrs): Alister & Alex Lim
Match B (35 above): John Ho & Alex Yong
6. Fishing
Heaviest catch
1st - Peter Tseu (2 kg)
2nd - Julaidi Gakin (1.85 kg)
3rd - Terry Majin (1.7 kg)
Most fish
1st - Flaviana Laban (18 pcs)
2nd - Sr Doris Abiu (13 pcs)
3rd - Julaidi Gakin (12 pcs)
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SEA Catholic Women Discuss Challenges At FABC Meeting
PLENTONG(CS, UCAN).- Catholic women from five Southeast Asian countries recommended at their meeting here that the Church support women in their role in the family and develop mechanisms to address women's issues.
The Women's Desk of the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC), under the Office of Laity and Family (OLF), conducted the South East Asian Meeting on Women Jan 27-Feb 1 at Majodi Centre in Plentong, Johor.
The participants - 33 women, three bishops, one priest - came from Malaysia, Philippines, Indonesia, Thailand, Vietnam and Mongolia
Mongolia was included because its socio-economic conditions are similar to that of the Southeast Asian region rather than the East Asian region, where the country is situated geographically.
The objectives of the gathering were:
1) To examine the threats and challenges to family life posed by 21st century values and work culture.
2) To examine women's role and responsibility in the family and understand how the challenges hinder women from living her role with dignity.
3) To learn from each other and reflect together how we as Church can help promote women's dignity and help them respond to the challenges of the 21st century.
Bishop Paul Tan sj of Melaka-Johor welcomed the participants.
Archbishop M Calist Soosa Pakiam, FABC-OLP chairman, in his address delivered by Bishop Agustinus Agus of Indonesia said, "There is a steady erosion of family values, faith and spirituality with the growing culture of consumerism, materialism and greed.
"The human person has become a commodity in the market. There is widespread trafficking of women and children to exploit their labour and sexuality.
"We, as Church and followers of Jesus, cannot stand and watch this culture of death grow and spread in this region.
"We have to be like Jesus, who struggled to bring dignity to women and the marginalised during his time.
"We therefore have to awaken to the urgency of the situation and respond with the conviction of our faith."
A panel of speakers from Malaysia AWAM presented a paper on "The Women's Reality in Malaysia" while Thai woman Buddhist monk Venerable Chatsuman Kabilsingh and FABC-OLF Secretary Virginia Saldanha offered reflections on women's spirituality.
Aside from the Buddhist monk, a Muslim woman offered her input. These two presenters were invited in keeping with the FABC's promotion of interreligious dialogue.
Among those who presented their respective country reports was Anita Tunggolou, chairperson of the Women's Commission of Kota Kinabalu Diocese.
Malaysia was represented by 12 participants with seven from Sabah: Tunggolou, Susan Shee, Rosalind Sua, Sister Angeline Limban rgs (KK Diocese) and Annie Jalani, Roferda Mariano and Evelyn Watson Pang (Sandakan Diocese).
At the end of the meeting, participants recommended that the Church help women cope with challenges in family life, including building partnerships and creating a balance of responsibilities between men and women.
The women also recommended awareness and formation programmes for young boys and girls to help them develop a healthy attitude toward one another.
From their discussion of Church pre-marriage courses, the women recommended that shared responsibility and decision making, and how to maintain a good relationship as a couple be included as essential components.
They urged the Church to establish a mechanism to address women's issues at the diocesan and parish levels.
Major common concerns that came up include poverty, migration, trafficking in women and children, erosion of family values and materialism.
Many women also have to struggle on a daily basis with domestic violence, economic dependency, and men's alcoholism and gambling.
Major challenges they mentioned were juggling work outside and in the home, the increasing incidence of single-parent families and husbands having extramarital affairs.
They agreed that though the Church has made some efforts to address these issues, much more needs to be done, especially in the area of violence against women.
Some suggested an FABC desk for men to help them deal with problems such as alcoholism, gambling, anger and sexual misconduct.
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COR Organizes Consecrated Life Day Mass
KOTA KINABALU(CS Online).- The Council of Religious (COR) of the Kota Kinabalu Diocese organized the 12th World Day for Consecrated Life (WDCL) Mass Feb 1 at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, here. The Mass began with the blessing of candles by presider Bishop John Lee outside the cathedral.
In his homily, Presider Bishop John Lee stressed the need for those in consecrated life to be faithful to their calling. More than 30 religious men and women present renewed their commitment to serve in the diocese after the homily. After the Mass those present, including the laity, gathered for a fellowship meal at the canteen of the parish centre.
The Mass was preceded by a triduum of prayer in preparation for the celebration. On the two weekends before the celebration, the religious went to the nearby parishes to create awareness among the faithful of the importance of the consecrated life and the various religious communities present in the diocese.
The diocese has three male religious institutes (La Salle Brothers, Brothers of St Gabriel, Mill Hill Brothers), five female religious institutes (Daughters of St Paul, Discalced Carmelite Sisters, Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, Infant Jesus Sisters, Religious of the Good Shepherd), one secular institute (Our Lady of the Annunciation), three Third Orders (Association of Pauline Cooperators, Secular Franciscan Order, Secular Discalced Carmelite Order).
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SHC Celebrates Lunar New Year
KOTA KINABALU(CS Online).- Sacred Heart Cathedral (SHC) here celebrated the Lunar New Year of the Rat on a quiet note Feb 7. This was because it fell at the beginning of the Lenten Season. However, the playing of the three Chinese musical instruments (cymbals, drum and gong) and the dance performances enlivened and enhanced the festive mood.
In his homily during the concelebrated Mass, Presider Bishop John Lee challenged the faithful of Chinese descent to put their trust in God to guide them through the year rather than in fortune-tellers or "fung shui."
During the Presentation of Gifts, parishioners offered various items associated with the celebration such as pomelo, kuazi, nien kau, etc to thank God for his bountiful gifts and graces.
After the Mass the bishop blessed the mandarin oranges which were then distributed them to the faithful. Later, the faithful were also treated to a performance by the Yick Nam Lion Dance Troupe in front of the parish centre.
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Annual Clergy Retreat Focuses On Priestly Identity
BUNDU TUHAN(CS Online).- The bishops, priests and seminarians (those in pastoral immersion) of the Dioceses of Kota Kinabalu, Keningau and Sandakan participated in the annual retreat Feb 10-15 facilitated by Father Jose Chito Bernardo Jr, 63, executive secretary of the Commission on Clergy, Philippines.
The theme of the retreat focused on the priestly identity and each participant was called to renew his priestly identity according to the image of Christ who calls and searches for him first. The call of God to each priest is a call to holiness, to an intimate relationship with Him, notwithstanding human weaknesses and sinfulness.
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