Thirty-four catechism students from St Michael’s Church (SMC) received excellent attendance awards at the November 17 Children’s Mass.
November 29, 2019
IPO: Thirty-four catechism students from St Michael’s Church (SMC) received excellent attendance awards at the November 17 Children’s Mass.
The prizes, which included a certificate and a RM20 voucher for the SMC Religious Items Shop, were presented by the SMC Pastor, Fr Anthony Liew.
Archbishop Emeritus John Ha of Kuching celebrated Mass, concelebrated by Fr. Anthony Liew.
In his homily, Archbishop Emeritus Ha referred to the daily Gospel reading.
“The believers thought that the temple in Jerusalem, filled with all its treasures, glory and acceptable offerings, was a place where they would meet God.
“However, Jesus makes them understand that this beautiful temple was threatened with destruction. He wanted a spiritual people, not a people bound by a temple sanctuary made of stones.
“People’s immediate reaction was to know when the destruction of the temple would occur, or what signs to look out for to avoid this disaster. Instead, Jesus diverted their attention from the temple to focus on the end times, when everyone stands before Christ to receive judgment.
Jesus also warned them about false prophets with false statements. “He also tells us that we should not give up despite the persecution. Jesus also drew attention to himself, that he is the true temple of God, not made by human hands.
This true temple makes visible what God the Father wants – to be with us, through Jesus Christ his Son in unity with the Holy Spirit. “That is why he said he could raise the temple in three days – that is, by his sacrifice and death on the cross, and his resurrection on the third day.
“We need to focus and set our priorities right, and not let our other desires distract us from God. Jesus wants us to follow him to the end, and if we are steadfast and faithful in discipleship, it doesn’t matter what people say. Jesus will come to claim us at the end of time. Let’s make it our only focus at today’s Mass,” he said.
After Communion, Fr. Liew presented certificates of excellence to each student. He also thanked catechists and parents for their commitment to helping children grow in their Catholic faith.
“The commitment of parents (to bring their children to catechism) is fundamental and obligatory for our Christian life, and for the development of a solid foundation of our Catholic faith.
“In the same way, those who contribute through teaching encourage children to share and be generous with their talents,” he said.
The assembly warmly applauded all the children as well as the catechists and the parents.
