CSS - Inti Gathering, September 29

The Catholic Students Society of Inti University College organised a gathering of Catholic students from Inti (and some from neighbouring institutions)on September 29th in Room SC1-A1. It was also an opportunity to welcome the new batch of students and to introduce them to CSS and its activities.

Here are some pictures from Christopher Aditya Widyawan's Facebook Photo gallery.

October - The Month of the Rosary

The month of October each year is dedicated to the Most Holy Rosary. This is primarily due to the fact that the liturgical feast of Our Lady of the Rosary is celebrated annually on October 7. It was instituted to honor the Blessed Virgin Mary in gratitude for the protection that she gives the Church in answer to the praying of the Rosary by the faithful.

The feast was introduced by Pope St. Pius V (1504-1572) in the year 1571 to commemorate the miraculous victory of the Christian forces in the Battle of Lepanto on October 7, 1571. The pope attributed more to the "arms" of the Rosary than the power of cannons and the valor of the soldiers who fought there.

Legend tells us that the Rosary as a form of prayer was given to St. Dominic (1170- 1221) by Mary, the Mother of Our Lord, who entrusted it to him as an aid in the conflicts with the Albigensians. The Dominican pope, St. Pius V, did much to further the spread of the Rosary and it thereafter became one of the most popular devotions in Christendom. It was the same Pope St. Pius V, who in 1569 officially approved the Rosary in its present form with the Papal Bull, Consueverunt Romani Pontifices. It had been completed by the addition of the second half of the "Hail Mary" and the "Glory be to the Father" at the conclusion of each mystery.

Current scholarship traces the development of the Rosary to the High Middle Ages where it came into being in various medieval monasteries as a substitute for the Divine Office for the lay monks and devout lay persons who did not know how to read. Instead of the 150 psalms, they would pray 150 "Our Fathers" counting them on a ring of beads known as the crown or "corona." With the growth of popularity of Marian devotion in the twelfth century, the "Psalter of the Blessed Virgin Mary" developed now substituting 150 "Hail Marys" in place of the "Our Fathers."

The 150 "Hail Marys" were subsequently subdivided into fifteen decades by the young Dominican friar, Henry Kalkar (1328-1408), with each decade referring to an event in the life of Jesus and Mary. The Dominican, Alanus de Rupe (1428-1478) further divided the episodes in the history of salvation into the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries. He also attributed the origin of the Rosary, then known as the "Psalter of the Blessed Virgin" to St. Dominic and thus spurred the Dominican Order to make the Apostolate of the Rosary their special concern. The Dominicans have, since then, promulgated the Rosary with notable results.

The practice of dedicating the entire month of October to the Holy Rosary developed toward the end of the last century. Pope Leo XIII (papacy: 1878-1903) strongly promoted the increase of devotion to the Blessed Mother by encouraging the constant use of the Rosary.

Beginning on September 1, 1883, with Supremo Apostolatus Officio, he wrote a total of eleven encyclicals on the Rosary , ending with Diuturni Temporis in 1898. We are currently celebrating the centennial of these papal encyclicals.

Many other popes have contributed to help increase devotion to the Rosary by their writings. In the recent past, Pope Paul VI ( papacy: 1963-1978) devoted the last section of his Apostolic Exhortation MARIALIS CULTUS to the Angelus and the Rosary (MC 40-55). In this document, he wrote that "the Rosary retains an unaltered value and intact freshness." (MC, 41)

The Rosary is primarily a scriptural prayer. This can be summarized by the traditional phrase used by Pope Pius XII (papacy: 1939-1958) that the Rosary is " a compendium of the entire Gospel" (AAS 38 [1946] p. 419). The Rosary draws its mysteries from the New Testament and is centered on the great events of the Incarnation and Redemption.

the late Pope John Paul II called the Rosary his favorite prayer, in which we meditate with Mary upon the mysteries which she as a mother meditated on in her heart (Lk. 2:19) (Osservatore Romano, 44; 30 Oct. 1979).

Pope John Paul II issued Rosarium Virginis Mariae - Apostolic Letter on Rosary of the Virgin Mary. He declared October 2002 ­- October 2003 The Year of the Rosary, and added Mysteries of Light that focus on events of Christ's ministry.

Pope Benedict XVI has reaffirmed the Church's long standing tradition to this beautiful tradition. He said, "Today, together we confirm that the Holy Rosary is not a pious practice banished to the past, like prayers of other times thought of with nostalgia. Instead, the Rosary is experiencing a new springtime. Without a doubt, this is one of the most eloquent signs of love that the young generation nourishes for Jesus and his Mother, Mary. In the current world, so dispersive, this prayer helps to put Christ at the centre, as the Virgin did, who meditated within all that was said about her Son, and also what he did and said. When reciting the Rosary, the important and meaningful moments of salvation history are relived. The various steps of Christ's mission are traced. With Mary the heart is oriented toward the mystery of Jesus. Christ is put at the centre of our life, of our time, of our city, through the contemplation and meditation of his holy mysteries of joy, light, sorrow and glory. May Mary help us to welcome within ourselves the grace emanating from these mysteries, so that through us we can "water" society, beginning with our daily relationships, and purifying them from so many negative forces, thus opening them to the newness of God. The Rosary, when it is prayed in an authentic way, not mechanical and superficial but profoundly, it brings, in fact, peace and reconciliation. It contains within itself the healing power of the Most Holy Name of Jesus, invoked with faith and love at the centre of each "Hail Mary".

In this month of October, let us consider this beautiful prayer of the Rosary as a means that we too can use in order to draw closer to Jesus and Mary by meditating on the great mysteries of our salvation. Let us also ask her to intercede for our chapel community as we prepare to celebrate our Chapel's Feast Triduum.

Preparations for Feastday

The Feast Day Committee and the various sub-committees are busy rehearsing and making the final preparations for the Feastday.

Feast of the Archangels: Ss. Michael, Gabriel and Raphael - September 29

Angels are an essential part of the Christian faith. They are a "truth of the faith" and are mentioned over a hundred times in the Bible. Tomorrow, September 29th, the Church's liturgy celebrates the Feast of the Archangels, Michael, Gabriel and Raphael.

Michael (Who is like God?)(Hebrew: מִיכָאֵל‎, Micha'el or Mîkhā'ēl; Greek: Μιχαήλ, Mikhaḗl; Latin: Michael or Míchaël; Arabic: میکائیل‎, Mikā'īl) was the archangel who fought against Satan and all his evil angels, defending all the friends of God. He is the protector of all humanity from the snares of the devil. The symbols of Saint Michael, the one God appointed to drive Satan and his followers out of heaven and who stood baring the entrance to the Garden of Eden when Adam and Eve were forced to leave it are dragons, swords, and the scales of justice.


Gabriel (Strength of God)(Hebrew: גַּבְרִיאֵל, Modern Gavriʼel Tiberian Gaḇrîʼēl; Latin: Gabrielus; Greek: Γαβριήλ, Gabriēl; Arabic: جبريل, Jibrīl or جبرائيل Jibrail; Aramaic: Gabri-el) announced to Zachariah the forthcoming birth of John the Baptist, and to Mary, the birth of Jesus. His greeting to the Virgin, "Hail, full of grace," is one of the most familiar and frequent prayers of the Christian people. Gabriel, the messenger is represented by a lily, the flower of purity.


Raphael (Medicine of God)(Standard Hebrew רָפָאֵל, Rāp̄āʾēl, "It is God who heals", "God Heals", "God, Please Heal", Arabic: رافائيل, Rāfāʾīl) is the archangel who took care of Tobias on his journey.Raphael, the guide and healer is symbolised with loaves, fishes and an ointment jar.

From the sixth century to 1970, September 29 was originally observed as Michaelmas Day and honored only St. Michael. St. Gabriel was observed on March 24 and St. Raphael on October 24. Since 1970, September 29 has been celebrated as the Feast of all three Archangels.

The Orthodox Church also pays honour to the Archangels on a different day, November 8th, which they call the "Synaxis of the Archangels." The Orthodox believe that Archangels comprise only one of the ranks of angels. They believe there are Seven Archangels. "Michael, Gabriel and Raphael" are descriptive titles as their names are too terrible for men to know. Here, these three give honor to Jesus Christ and reveal Him to mankind.

The Catechism of the Catholic Church (328, 329, 330) has this to say about angels in general:

“The existence of the spiritual, non-corporeal beings that Sacred Scripture usually calls ‘angels’ is a truth of faith. The witness of Scripture is as clear as the unanimity of Tradition.

St. Augustine says: ‘Angel’ is the name of their office, not of their nature. If you seek the name of their nature, it is ’spirit’; if you seek the name of their office, it is ‘angel’: from what they are , ’spirit’ from what they do ‘angel.’ With their whole beings the angels are servants and messengers of God. Because they ‘always behold the face of my Father who is in heaven’ they are the ‘might ones who do his word, hearkening to the voice of his word.”

As purely spiritual creatures angels have intelligence and will: they are personal and immortal creatures, surpassing in perfection all visible creatures, as the splendor of their glory bears witness.”

For a comparative description of the archangels, go to the posting in the AMEIA blog.

Bulletin Annoucement - September 27

Patron's Feast Day and Triduum (2nd - 4th October)

2nd October 2009 (Fri) - 7.00pm Rosary, Novena followed by Mass.
Theme : Solidarity with One Another and Sharing Burdens.

3rd October 2009 (Sat) – 7.00pm Rosary, Novena followed by Mass and Candle Light Procession.
Theme : Seeing the Image of God in Every Man and Woman.

4th October 2009 (Sun) – 10.00am Rosary, Novena followed by Mass.
Theme: Mystery of Trinity dwelling in us.

Donations (in cash or cheques) are most welcomed. All cheques are to be made payable to : CHAPEL OF ST. THERESA

Mass Offerings
Mass offerings and donations can be made before Mass each day at the entrance of the Chapel. Please do so half hour before the Mass begins.

Parking during Triduum
There will be no parking at the right and left of the Chapel. Please do not park your vehicles at the Hindu Temple Grounds. Parking is available behind the Chapel via Gate 2.

Transportation for College Students during Triduum (night)
College students who need transport, kindly contact your respective college representatives.

Choir Practice for Triduum
There will be choir practice for mass today, September 27.


Infant Baptism - Every 3rd Sunday of the Month
Contact Persons :- Mr. Maurice (Eng.) - 017-3962977
Mr. George Mool (BM) - 016-2871712
Ms. Mary (Tamil) - 06-7997450

RCIA: Mr. Anthony Chia (Eng) - 016-3569168
Mr. George Mool (BM) - 016-2871712


Home Stay/ Foster Programme
As you are aware, we have many college students in our midst. Some of whom will not be able to return for the holidays. We hope that some parishioners will be able to open their homes to these students for the duration of the holidays. If interested, please give your names and contact numbers to Mr. Stanly. Students who wish to have home stay may also register.


Gotong Royong - Cleaning of Church (interior)
October 1st, Thursday
7.30 pm
We hope that more parishioners will come forward to assist us in sprucing up the Chapel before our Feast Day and Triduum celebrations.


Feast Day Committee Meeting After Mass
September 27

All Committee members are required to attend. Those interested in helping with the Feast Day preparations, you are most welcomed to attend.

The Story of St. Therese of Lisieux

It's just a week away from our Chapel's Patronal Feast. Here are two videos that could help us in our preparation to celebrate her Feast. The first video tells the story of her life. The second video is the prayer of St. Therese which could be used as a novena prayer for the next 9 days as we approach the culmination of the Feast Triduum.

Recognising the Gifts of Others ... or being threatened by them

Twenty Sixth Ordinary Sunday Year B

Last week’s readings, if you remember, spoke of jealousy and ambition and how these things can destroy the community and our relationship with one another. Today’s readings continue with the same theme and how jealousy can also be an obstacle to the mission of Christ and of his Church.

The Church is the Body of Christ. Like any human body, it has many parts. Each part of the body has a special role and purpose. Hands are use for writing, lifting, holding and carrying. Hands are not meant for walking. That’s the role of our feet. Feet are meant for walking and not for writing. Likewise, our eyes are meant for seeing and our ears are meant for hearing. The eyes can’t say to the ears – “we don’t need you”; “we can take over your roles.” Similarly, the ears can’t take over the role of the eyes.

The image of the Body is important in understanding today’s readings. Jealousy often blinds us to the importance and roles of others. We often think that whatever we do is the most important thing. We feel that our role is indispensable. We feel irritated when others seem to be doing the same thing. When competition enters into church life, the mission of Christ is interrupted.

We see this happening both in the first reading and in the gospel. In the first reading, some of the elders that were appointed by Moses and who had received the spirit from him felt threatened by those others who had not gone through the same selection and yet received the spirit. They could not understand that God gives his spirit to whoever he chooses. God’s election of his people is totally free. His hands cannot be tied. Some people cannot claim to have a monopoly over God, or his Spirit, or the Truth. God gives himself to all. The same thing happened with the disciples of Christ. They felt threatened by another man who was able to cast out devils. They saw him as a competitor. But Jesus saw him differently. Jesus could recognize the gift of the spirit in this man. Jesus makes this important observation: “Anyone who is not against us is for us.”

We must not see each other as competitors. Rather, we must always encourage the gifts, talents and contributions of others. We can do this only if we remember that we all part of the Body of Christ. We can only do this if we realize that we have one common mission, the same mission of Jesus Christ, that is to build God’s kingdom and not our own kingdoms.

Let us examine ourselves in today’s mass. Are we an obstacle to others? Do we encourage the use of talents and gifts in this community or are we fonder of criticizing others? Are we more concerned with our own activities and projects rather than with building the community and doing God’s will?

If we have been guilty of some of this faults, if we have been jealous of others in the community, if we have been an obstacle to others, if we have failed to give encouragement, then it is time for change. We must be prepared to change ourselves and not others. This is what Jesus meant when he said: “if your hand or foot or eye should cause you to sin, cut it off.” Stop blaming others. Start taking responsibilities for the problems that we have brought to this community. Then there will be salvation for us and for the whole community.

Test: Do you appreciate your priest?

Spanish Bishop Composes Test

PALENCIA, Spain, SEPT. 18, 2009 (Zenit.org).- The Year for Priests isn't just an internal celebration among the clergy, but rather an opportunity for all the faithful to assess their appreciation for the priesthood, says Bishop José Ignacio Munilla of Palencia.

"Do we appreciate the priesthood and love our priests?" the bishop asked in a posting on the Web site of his dioceses.

To answer this question, the bishop composed -- "with a bit of humor" -- the following test titled "Priestly Appreciation." The test is complete with instructions to evaluate your answers and your level of appreciation for the priesthood.

* * *

1. Have you prayed recently for your parish priest, your bishop or the Pope?

a. I don't even know their names.

b. At Mass there is usually prayer for them, and I add myself in that petition.

c. I do so every day in my personal prayer.


2. Have you disclosed your conscience to a priest, trusting that he can help you in your problems?

a. Each one has to solve his problems.

b. "Four eyes see more than two." It is always good to listen to and accept the advice of someone who can help us.

c. The greatest help I have received from a priest has been when his advice was joined to God's forgiveness in the sacrament of confession.


3. When I hear among my friends comments criticizing priests ...

a. I followed their lead, so as not to stand out.

b. I tuned out, and pretended to think of something else.

c. I said what I thought, giving witness to my faith.


4. I see in a priest ...

a. A "relic" of the past.

b. A "professional" of religion.

c. A minister of God; "another Christ" among us.


5. How many times have you invited the parish priest to your home?

a. The priest is only called when someone has died.

b. When grandmother is with us, he usually brings Communion.

c. Several times. I was delighted when he told us the story of his vocation at the dinner table.


6. When you hear a priest give a homily ...

a. I listen, if he has good oratorical skills.

b. I listen, I am interested in the topic he is addressing.

c. I see him as an instrument through which God is speaking to me.


7. When a collection is taken up for seminaries ...

a. I think, "Priests" are always begging.

b. I say to myself, there are collections for so many things! One more!

c. I collaborate gladly, because I believe no vocation should be frustrated because of lack of financial means.


8. When I see an elderly priest in the Church or on the street ...

a. I think the Church is on the decline.

b. I hope he says the Mass quickly.

c. I thank God for his fidelity and for all the good he might have done.


9. When I see a young priest at the altar ...

a. I mistrust his lack of experience. What is he going to say to me?

b. I observe what he does and "classify" him.

c. I thank God for his vocation and pray intensely for him.


10. How would you react if your son said he wants to be a priest?

a. I would ask him if he's gone mad, and I would remind him that we must take into consideration what others might think.

b. I would ask him to give it considerable thought and to have a university degree first.

c. It would give me one of the greatest joys of my life, and I would support him fully.


11. Have you asked a child, adolescent or young man about the possibility of being a priest some day?

a. I don't get into jams. Let everyone live his life.

b. I am of the opinion that all vocations must be appreciated, even if they are different from our own.

c. Yes, I have thought of someone specifically, and I pray for him ... One of these days, "I will let him know."


12. What do you think of the expression of the Saintly Curé d'Ars: "The priest is the love of Jesus' heart"?

a. I think it is a disembodied spiritualism.

b. I think that can only be said of a saintly priest.

c. I believe it is exactly so, though "they have this treasure in earthen vessels" (2 Corinthians 4:7).

* * *

Guide to evaluating the results:

If the letter "a" appears in the majority of your answers, I am surprised that this test reached your hands. But, I thank God that this happened so that I can tell you as the priest that I am, that God loves you the point of folly and that he expects from you an answer of love.

If you have responded to the majority of questions with the letter "b," I would like to tell you that you are not enjoying the treasures that God is offering you through the priesthood.

But if the letter "c" is yours, then I ask you not to cease to pray to God for the sanctification of priests and for the increase of priestly vocations, because I am very sure that God is going to listen to you.

Feast of St. Matthew the Evangelist, September 21

As our Muslim brothers and sisters celebrate Hari Raya Aidil Fitri, we Catholics celebrate tomorrow the feast of a great evangelist, St. Matthew. Matthew the Evangelist (מתי/מתתיהו, "Gift of Yahweh", Standard Hebrew and Tiberian Hebrew: Mattay or Mattithyahu; Septuagint Greek: Ματθαίος, Matthaios, Modern Greek: Ματθαίος, Matthaíos), most often called Saint Matthew, is a Christian figure, and one of Jesus's Twelve Apostles. He is credited by tradition with writing the Gospel of Matthew, and is identified in that gospel as being the same person as Levi the publican (tax-collector).

Matthew the Evangelist is complex for a number of reasons. Both Epiphanius and Jerome state that Matthew wrote the Gospel according to the Hebrews. The gospel to bear the name "Matthew" was written anonymously, with tradition ascribing authorship to Matthew at a later date. Both the style of Greek used and the means of describing events leads a few to conclude that the author of the gospel was not a companion of the historic Jesus. Some use the designation "Matthew the Evangelist" to refer to the anonymous gospel author, and "Matthew the Apostle" to refer to the Biblical figure described. Christian tradition holds that they are the same person.

Matthew's depiction in the New Testament is likewise complex. In the gospels of Mark and Luke, as well as in the Acts of the Apostles, Matthew is mentioned without any title, identifier, descriptions, or actions. Virtually nothing besides his apostleship can be determined from these accounts, and he is not mentioned at all in the Gospel of John or subsequent epistles.

The Gospel of Matthew, on the other hand, names Matthew as the publican called by Jesus, whom the other gospels name "Levi". This gospel subsequently gives Matthew the title "the tax collector" in its list of the Twelve Apostles. Christian tradition holds that Matthew and Levi were, in fact, two names for the same person (similarly, tradition posits a "Jude Thaddeus" to reconcile the Jude of Luke and Acts with the Thaddeus of Matthew and Mark).

According to the tradition of the Catholic Church, St. Matthew is the author of the first Gospel. He was the son of Alpheus and was called to be an Apostle while sitting in the tax collectors place at Capernaum. Before his conversion he was a publican, i.e., a tax collector by profession.

His apostolic activity was at first restricted to the communities of Palestine. Nothing definite is known about his later life. There is a tradition that points to Ethiopia as his field of labor; other traditions mention of Parthia and Persia. It is uncertain whether he died a natural death or received the crown of martyrdom.

St. Matthew's Gospel was written to fill a sorely-felt want for his fellow countrymen, both believers and unbelievers. For the former, it served as a token of his regard and as an encouragement in the trial to come, especially the danger of falling back to Judaism; for the latter, it was designed to convince them that the Messiah had come in the person of Jesus, our Lord, in Whom all the promises of the Messianic Kingdom embracing all people had been fulfilled in a spiritual rather than in a carnal way: "My Kingdom is not of this world." His Gospel, then, answered the question put by the disciples of St. John the Baptist, "Are You He Who is to come, or shall we look for another?"

Writing for his countrymen of Palestine, St. Matthew composed his Gospel in his native Aramaic, the "Hebrew tongue" mentioned in the Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles. Soon afterward, about the time of the persecution of Herod Agrippa I in 42 AD, he took his departure for other lands.

Matthew is recognized as a Saint in the Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, Lutheran and Anglican churches. His feast day is celebrated on 21 September in the West, 16 November in the East (for those churches which follow the traditional Julian Calendar, 16 November currently falls on 29 November of the modern Gregorian Calendar). He is also commemorated by the Orthodox, together with the other Apostles, on 30 June (13 July), the Synaxis of the Holy Apostles.

Like the other evangelists, Matthew is often depicted in Christian art with one of the four living creatures of Revelation 4:7. The one that accompanies him is in the form of a winged man.

Bulletin Annoucement - September 20

Patron's Feast Day and Triduum (2nd - 4th October)

In conjunction with St.Theresa's Feast day, there will be a triduum celebration at our chapel. We invite each family to contribute a minimum sum of RM50.00 or whatever you can afford. Your support is highly sought after as it will facilitate the smooth running of the event. Contribution envelopes are available at the chapel entrance. Kindly drop the contribution envelopes in the collection bag during mass.

Contribution in kind is also highly sought after. List of items required is placed on the notice board. Those who wish to contribute, kindly see the Treasurer at the chapel entrance after mass.

Infant Baptism - Every 3rd Sunday of the Month
Contact Persons :- Mr. Maurice (Eng.) - 017-3962977
Mr. George Mool (BM) - 016-2871712
Ms. Mary (Tamil) - 06-7997450

RCIA: Mr. Anthony Chia (Eng) - 016-3569168
Mr. George Mool (BM) - 016-2871712

Home Stay/ Foster Programme
As you are aware, we have many college students in our midst. Some of whom will not be able to return for the holidays. We hope that some parishioners will be able to open their homes to these students for the duration of the holidays. If interested, please give your names and contact numbers to Mr. Stanly. Students who wish to have home stay may also register.

Gotong Royong - Cleaning of Church (interior)
September 26 (Saturday)
4 pm
We hope that more parishioners will come forward to assist us in sprucing up the Chapel before our Feast Day and Triduum celebrations.

Feast Day Committee Meeting After Mass
September 27

All Committee members are required to attend. Those interested in helping with the Feast Day preparations, you are most welcomed to attend.

Eid ul-Fitr (Aidil Fitri), September 20-21

As our Muslim brothers and sisters end their long fast during the holy month of Ramadan, we take this opportunity to wish them 'Selamat Hari Raya Aidil Fitri!"

What is Eid ul Fitr or Aidil Fitri?

Eid ul-Fitr or Id-ul-Fitr (Arabic: عيد الفطر ‘Īdu l-Fiṭr‎), often abbreviated to Eid, is a Muslim holiday that marks the end of Ramadan, the Islamic holy month of fasting. Eid is an Arabic word meaning "festivity", while Fiṭr means "to break the fast" (and can also mean "nature", from the word "fitrah"); and so the holiday symbolizes the breaking of the fasting period. It is celebrated starting on the first day of the Islamic month of Shawwal.

Eid ul-Fitr is a three day celebration and is sometimes also known as the "Smaller Eid" (Arabic: العيد الصغير al-‘īdu ṣ-ṣaghīr‎) as compared to the Eid ul-Adha that lasts four days and is called the "Greater Eid" (Arabic: العيد الكبير al-‘īdu l-kabīr‎).

Muslims are commanded by the Qur'an to complete their fast on the last day of Ramadan and then recite the Takbir all throughout the period of Eid. The Takbir is recited after having confirmation that the moon of Shawwal is sighted on the eve of the last day of Ramadan. It continues until the start of the Eid prayer. The Takbir consists of:

Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar الله أكبر الله أكبر الله أكبر
laa ilaaha illAllaah لا إله إلا الله
Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar الله أكبر الله أكبر
wa li-illaahil-hamd ولله الحمد

God is the Greatest, God is the Greatest, God is the Greatest,
There is no deity but God
God is the Greatest, God is the Greatest
and to God goes all praise

Eid-ul-Fitr is a unique festival. It has no connection with any historical event nor is it related to the changes of seasons or cycles of agriculture. It is not a festival related in any way to worldly affairs.

Its significance is purely spiritual. It is the day when the Muslims thank God for having given them the will, the strength and the endurance to observe fast and obey His commandment during the holy month of Ramadan.

This day, in Muslim world, brings rejoicing and happiness. The rejoicing is not, however, at the departure of the month of Ramadan; it is the happiness which man feels after successfully completing an important task.

In Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Brunei, Eid is also commonly known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri,Hari Otak, Hari Raya Idul Fitri or Hari Raya Puasa. Hari Raya literally means 'Day of Celebration' i.e. 'The Day'. Muslims in Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore celebrate Eid like other Muslims throughout the world. It is the biggest holiday in Indonesia and Malaysia and is the most awaited one. Shopping malls and bazaars are filled with people days ahead of Hari Raya, causing a distinctive festive atmosphere throughout the country. Many banks, government and private offices are closed for this holiday, which usually lasts a week.

The night before Eid is with the takbir which is held in the mosques or musallas. In many parts of Indonesia as well as Malaysia, especially in rural areas, pelita or panjut (oil lamps) are lit up in house compounds. Eid also witnesses a huge migratory pattern of Muslims, from big metropolitan cities to rural areas. This is known as balik kampung or pulang kampung in Indonesian — literally going back to home town to celebrate Eid with one's parents. Special dishes like ketupat, dodol, lemang (a type of glutinous rice cake cooked in bamboo) and other Indo-Malay delicacies are served during this day.

It is common to greet people with "Selamat Hari Raya Idul Fitri" or "Salam Aidilfitri" which means "Happy Eid". Muslims also greet one another with "maaf lahir dan batin" in Indonesian and "maaf zahir dan batin" in Malaysian, which means "Forgive my physical and emotional (wrongdoings)", because Eid ul-Fitr is not only for celebrations but also the time for Muslims to cleanse their sins and strengthen their ties with relatives and friends.

It is customary for Indonesians and Malays to wear traditional cultural outfits on the Eid. The outfit for men is called baju melayu or baju koko in Indonesia which is worn together with kain samping (made out of songket) and songkok (a dark coloured headgear); in Indonesia the men will usually wear pants with similar color to the shirt or (normal black pants) and a (black head cover called) [Peci]. The women in Indonesia and Malaysia wear what is known as baju kurung and baju kebaya. It is also common to see non-Malay Muslims wear costumes of their culture.

Once the prayer is completed, it is also common for Muslims in Indonesia and Malaysia to visit the graves of loved ones. During this visit, they clean the grave, recite Ya-Seen, a chapter (surah) from the Qur'an and also perform the tahlil ceremony. All these are done to ask for God to forgive the dead and also those who are living.

The rest of the day is spent visiting relatives or serving visitors. Eid ul-Fitr is a very joyous day for children for on this day adults are especially generous. Children will be given token sums of money, also known as "duit raya," from their parents or elders.

Most Malaysians of all cultures and faiths would remember this classic from Saloma, "Selamat Hari Raya"

A Nite of Gathering for Central CSS, Chapel of St. Theresa

Sunday the 13th of September was a remarkable and exciting Day for the CSS Members from different Campuses in and surrounding Nilai, that converged for a Centralized CSS Gathering at Chapel of St. Theresa.

The Gathering commenced immediately after the MASS. Ricky Rack from Kolej Teknologi Timur (KTT) was the Master of Ceremonies for the day. He invited Rev. Fr. Mike Chua, Parish Priest of the Church of the Visitation, Seremban and the Administrator of Chapel of St. Theresa, Nilai, to Grace the Gathering with Prayer. Rev. Fr. Mike prayed for God's mercy, protection and unity among all as a community. He told the students that the aim of the gathering is to bring all the Catholic Students within and outside of Nilai together for an evening of introductions, fellowship and prayer. There was often little interaction among the different campuses, he added, and so this was an opportunity to come together on the basis of their common Catholic identity irrespective of cultural and national backgrounds. This was also an opportunity to introduce the respective CSS and the Central CSS to the new intake of students.

Ricky then requested all members to introduce themselves to get acquainted based on their names, background and school of study. Though many were shy at first, but later on were more relaxed with self-introductions.

Members proceeded straight for light refreshment, which turned out to be a sumptuous and exclusive meal. It was both an occasion for dining and fellowship affording members an interactive interlude before the next session.

Also present with Rev. Fr. Mike Chua was the ever knowledgeable and agreeable Dr. Sherman Kuek of the Pastoral Institute of the Melaka Johor Diocese. Ricky Rack,as forms of ice breakers, involved all members into several games, one of which was the 'First Impression.' A piece of paper was stuck to the back of every individual. As they went round the group, other members would write their first impressions on that piece of paper thus creating a unique profile for the person. The game turned out to be very hilarious especially when some members were selected to read out the comments written by their friends.

Kevin Marandah, CSS President of Nilai College then led the gathering into a time of praise and worship, and thereafter the sign of peace was exchanged by everyone - some with hand shakes, others with hugs or charming smiles.

Shaun Mirandah, the CSS Centralized Co-ordinator, called on the presence of Frac Faga Utoo (Popularly called Obama) to talk on the theme of the day, which he entitled " God's Grace is Coming in a Big Way". Franc started with a joyful spiritual song that had the following lyrics: 'He's coming in a Big way when it seems like God is coming too late.' The song illustrated the need for members to put their trust and faith in God in the midst of difficulties. Demystifying this, he used a story from the Gospel of St. John that showed how Jesus Christ waited for an appointed hour and to raise Lazarus from death thus demonstrating that with God all things are possible. He exhorted all members to be courageous and seek God in all their endeavours. Members were pleased and inspired with the message and applauded him for such a profoundly inspiring talk.

The Catholic Faith, added Shaun, constantly challenges Catholic Students to true to their identity, in other words, they need to remain faithful to the teachings and practices of the Catholic faith. He spoke about 'The Rosary Devotion' as a great way to participate in the life of our Mother Mary. He talks about the Miracles of the Rosary Devotion and called for members who have testimony to share the graces they had received through the intercession of Mary in the Rosary.

The writer, Brother Godfrey, testified how continuous Devotion to the Rosary Intercession for our Mother Mary through Her Son Jesus Christ, has awarded him a scholarship with the University of Nottingham. He said, as Catholics, he exhorted all CSS Members to take the Rosary Devotion seriously for continuous intercession in their lives.

Other testimonies came from Ms Oluchi and Brother Kevin Marandah who testified how continuous intercession of Mary through the Rosary has been helpful and both encouraged all CSS members to always recite their Rosary.

Finally, Shaun spoke about how the Rosary Devotion has also been of help to him and encouraged members to be serious most especially in the month of October for Rosary devotion.

The gathering was great in that it created and strengthened bond of relationships, irrespective of our various background, cultural heritage and the spirit of brotherhood among members were established. Shaun closed the Gathering by expressing this thanks and appreciation to all members for their time, and patience throughout the gathering. He also singled out Brother Rohshel Isaac (The Guitarist) from Seremban.

- By Godfrey Akpakwu
(MSc. University of Nottingham)

The Family is Protagonist of Evangelisation

Priest Warns Against "Liquid Love"

ROME, SEPT. 16, 2009 (Zenit.org).- The Church is emphasizing the Christian family's role as the subject, not just the object, of evangelization, with a unique mission to reach out to people in their own circles.

This was one of the conclusions of a two-day international conference that ended Friday, and was organized in Rome by the Pontifical Council for the Family.

It focused on the family as a "subject of evangelization," and gathered married couples from around the world as well as priests involved in family pastoral care.

Monsignor Carlos Simon Vazquez, an under-secretary of the Pontifical Council for the Family, explained to ZENIT that the seminar concentrated in particular on the teaching of the Second Vatican Council, the constitution "Gaudium et Spes," and the apostolic exhortation "Familiaris Consortio," signed by John Paul II after the 1980 Synod on the Family.

This document, he said, "presents us with a theology, a pastoral program on the family, which is rooted in the mystery of God and is called to be the presence of that love of God, of that God who wants to communicate his good news to the whole world."

The priest stated that the family "is called to make that God present in history," as "Gadium et Spes" explains, presenting it as a "subject that must make a reality the assumptions it poses in the first part of the document: for example, it must be present in the international service, in the service to society, to culture, and in the other services in which the Church has a word to express."

Monsignor Vazquez said that the family is reduced to an evangelizing "object" and is not seen as an evangelizing subject "when we see in it an object that does things, that resolves problems."

He added: "The family does all that but above all it is a being loved by God; therefore, its action is its being. It isn't a sort of solution of problems but fulfills this mission because it lives a vocation that God has given it in love."

The family "is the place of gratitude, of generosity, where all find a reason to hope and to be secure, not because of what they have but because of what they are and this is the translation of the dynamics of love," noted the priest.

Society and family

Father Leopold Vives, former secretary of the Family and Life Commission of the Lay Apostolate of the Spanish episcopal conference, pointed out the leading role of the family in the light of Benedict XVI's new encyclical "Caritas in Veritate."

In an interview with ZENIT, he said, "Society's progress passes through the family's progress."

The priest explained two aspects of this progress: "The first is the relationship of truth and love: human progress must be integral and this can only happen in interpersonal relationship -- hence, a relationship of love.

"If this relationship of love is not lived according to the true person, development is fictitious; there can be great economic development, with the means at our disposal, but not in the person."

The second aspect, he said, "is openness to man's transcendence which goes beyond an earthly horizon."

"Without the latter," Father Vives said, "we are outside of the integral truth of man and, therefore, outside of his true good and we are then again in a fictitious development."

The priest stressed in particular the passage of the Pope's encyclical in which he shows the relationship between the family and the Trinity. It describes how the family lives from its communion of love with the Triune God.

He affirmed, "Surely man's fullness is there not only on earth but in the full communion with God in heaven."

Father Vives pointed out that one example that shows how the family becomes an object and not a subject is the "gender ideology."

He explained: "The institution of the family is rooted in the person's very nature. In the case of the gender ideology we have a denial of the truth of man, because we have fragmented him, regarding our body as something material, independent of the person which I, from my liberty, can mold to my taste, completely separated from what the person is, who expresses himself from his freedom, also understood badly, that is: 'I am a person because I am free and as I am free I can choose.' This is not so."

The priest continued: "A person is one in his unity of body and soul and, therefore, my own identity cannot be true if it does not take into account the original and essential acts of who I am. In the first place, I am man or woman.

"The family based on marriage, the union between one man and one woman, is the truth of man. Without it, we are destroying the most fundamental relationship of the person, which is the conjugal relationship, and in this way the relationship between parents and children is destroyed.

"Here one's own identity is wounded, knowing who I am in a personal relationship: 'I am me because you are; you are, and I am different from you.' However, if we cancel that difference, which is what the gender ideology intends, we take away the foundation of personal identity. If I try to construct my personal identity apart from my masculine being, I am in constant contradiction of my own being."

No foundation

Father Vives stated that one of the great challenges for young couples who want to get married in the Church is "liquid love," namely, "something that isn't consistent, that has no foundation, something on which one cannot build because it is reduced to various feelings."

"Of course there are feelings in love and this forms an important and very striking part for young people, but it cannot be reduced to a feeling," he stressed.

The priest stated: "Love is a communion that springs from the gift of oneself. And that gift is a total self-giving. This is what gives the foundation to a relationship.

"It's what does not happen in a relationship of 'liquid love,' of individuals who don't have the capacity for sacrifice, self-giving and fidelity, who are not capable of promising because they regard the future as something uncertain."

To overcome "liquid love," Father Vives suggested deepening in the understanding what it means to be Christian.

He said: "When one understands that one has a vocation, that this vocation is a gift of God which is sanctified by a sacrament, then individuals are that much more disposed to be able to keep the promise to live love, to build strong and stable relationships.

"To do so, the bond with the Church is fundamental. To be married in the Lord is at the same time an adherence to the Church because it is the body of Christ. In God they can find that love that spouses dream about and that makes them able to stay united."

The priest concluded: "Nor is it possible to live love without forgiveness and all this is nourished by the cooperation of the spouses with the sacramental grace."

Immigration: Making Catholicity Tangible

Vatican Aide Notes How Migration Helps Ecclesiology

BRASILIA, Brazil, SEPT. 16, 2009 (Zenit.org).- Immigration makes the nature of the universal Church visible, according to a Vatican aide who was reflecting on migrants and catholicity.

Archbishop Agostino Marchetto, secretary of the Pontifical Council for Migrants and Travelers, spoke about immigration and ecclesiology when he addressed the third international conference on migrant ministry, which opened today in Brazil.

The prelate affirmed that immigration, which he called a "sign of the times," can be a chance for local Churches to live and feel the ecclesiology of communion and mission spoken about in "Lumen Gentium" from the Second Vatican Council.

The pastoral care of migrants "contributes to making visible the genuine physiognomy of the Church," he contended.

"Also through them," the archbishop added, "God's plan of salvific communion can be carried out among peoples."

Archbishop Marchetto further observed that immigrants themselves have the "privileged though painful opportunity of coming to a greater sense of belonging to the universal Church, beyond any particularity."

He recalled how "Lumen Gentium" teaches that the Church exists as universal and particular, without contradiction.

And the Church's pastoral program with immigrants must be carried out "in hierarchical communion with the bishop, the clergy, the laity and the religious," the archbishop said. He added that a concept of "mission" must also be taken into account.

"Mission is not only carried out in the so-called mission territories, traditionally in Asia and Africa, given that today the inhabitants of the different continents move, and with them, moves the mission," he observed.

"The Church becomes the history of a people on the way who, starting from the mystery of Christ and the circumstances of the people and groups that make it up, is called to build a new history, gift of God and fruit of human liberty," Archbishop Marchetto said. "This is the thread of the history that enters in God's order, in the paschal mystery of death and life, and also the thread of the joys and sorrows of migrants, pilgrims on earth."

Feast of our Patron, St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, Triduum 2-4th October

Theme: Deepening our Discipleship: "A Spirituality of Communion"

The Chapel of St. Theresa, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan warmly invites you to celebrate our Patron’s Feast Day. Come join us in our triduum celebration beginning on Friday 2nd October – 4th October 2009.

2nd October 2009 (Fri) - 7.00pm Rosary, Novena followed by Mass.
Theme : Solidarity with One Another and Sharing Burdens.

3rd October 2009 (Sat) – 7.00pm Rosary, Novena followed by Mass and Candle Light Procession.
Theme : Seeing the Image of God in Every Man and Woman.

4th October 2009 (Sun) – 10.00am Rosary, Novena followed by Mass.
Theme: Mystery of Trinity dwelling in us.

Donations (in cash or cheques) are most welcomed.
Mass offerings and donations can be made before Mass each day at the entrance of the Chapel.
All cheques are to be made payable to : CHAPEL OF ST. THERESA

Chapel of St. Theresa of the Child Jesus, Nilai, Negeri Sembilan Tel (hp) 017-3962977 (Mr. Maurice Sta Maria)

St. Therese and Her Little Way

St. Therese knew as a Carmelite nun she would never be able to perform great deeds. "Love proves itself by deeds, so how am I to show my love? Great deeds are forbidden me. The only way I can prove my love is by scattering flowers and these flowers are every little sacrifice, every glance and word, and the doing of the least actions for love."

Thérèse continued to worry about how she could achieve holiness in the life she led. She didn't want to just be good, she wanted to be a saint. She thought there must be a way for people living hidden, little lives like hers. " I have always wanted to become a saint. Unfortunately when I have compared myself with the saints, I have always found that there is the same difference between the saints and me as there is between a mountain whose summit is lost in the clouds and a humble grain of sand trodden underfoot by passers-by. Instead of being discouraged, I told myself: God would not make me wish for something impossible and so, in spite of my littleness, I can aim at being a saint. It is impossible for me to grow bigger, so I put up with myself as I am, with all my countless faults. But I will look for some means of going to heaven by a little way which is very short and very straight, a little way that is quite new.

What is the meaning of “the little way” of St Therese? It is an image that tries to capture her understanding of being a disciple of Jesus Christ, of seeking holiness of life in the ordinary and the everyday. St Therese based “her little way” on two fundamental convictions:
(1) God shows love by mercy and forgiveness, and
(2) she could not be “perfect” in following the Lord.

St Therese believed that the people of her time lived in too great a fear of God's judgment. The fear was stifling and did not allow people to experience the freedom of the children of God. St Therese knew from her life that God is merciful love; many scripture passages in the Old and New Testaments bore out that truth. She loved the maternal images for God in the Old Testament and the love of God for us in Jesus Christ. In fact, St Therese once wrote that she could not understand how anyone could be afraid of a God who became a child. She also knew that she would never be perfect. Therefore, she went to God as a child approaches a parent . . . with open arms and a profound trust.

St Therese translated “the little way” in terms of a commitment to the tasks and to the people we meet in our everyday lives. She took her assignments in the convent of Lisieux as ways of manifesting her love for God and for others. She worked as a sacristan by taking care of the altar and the chapel; she served in the refectory and in the laundry room; she wrote plays for the entertainment of the community. Above all, she tried to show a love for all the nuns in the community. She played no favourites; she gave of herself even to the difficult members. Her life sounds so routine and ordinary, but it was steeped in a loving commitment that knew no breakdown. It is called a “little way” precisely by being simple, direct, yet calling for amazing fortitude and commitment.

In living out her life of faith she sensed that everything that she was able to accomplish came from the generous love of God in her life. She was convinced that at the end of her life she would go to God with empty hands. Why? Because all was accomplished in union with God.

"We live in an age of inventions. We need no longer climb laboriously up flights of stairs; in well-to-do houses there are lifts. And I was determined to find a lift to carry me to Jesus, for I was far too small to climb the steep stairs of perfection. So I sought in holy Scripture some idea of what this life I wanted would be, and I read these words: "Whosoever is a little one, come to me." It is your arms, Jesus, that are the lift to carry me to heaven. And so there is no need for me to grow up: I must stay little and become less and less."

Catholics and other Christians have been attracted to St Therese's style. Her “little way” seems to put holiness of life within the reach of ordinary people. Live out your days with confidence in God's love for you. Recognize that each day is a gift in which your life can make a difference by the way you choose to live it. Put hope in a future in which God will be all and love will consume your spirit. Choose life, not the darkness of pettiness and greed. St Therese knew the difference love makes by allowing love to be the statement she made each day of her life.

The Bane of Community Living: Jealousy and Ambition

Twenty Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Year

How do friendships sour? How do rifts occur within communities? How does disharmony set in to our society and culture? The answer simply lies in today’s second reading taken from the letter of St. James. He writes: “Wherever you find jealousy and ambition, you find disharmony, and wicked things of every kind being done...”

The greatest threat to our relationships as members of a family, the community and the Church often does not come from the outside. It is easy to blame all our problems on external factors. But very often, the greatest threat is found among ourselves. Our problems begin with feelings of jealousy that we have against one another. This is fueled by ambition for power and status. What is the cause of jealousy and ambition?

This is similar to the question that St. James asked in today’s second reading: “Where do these wars and battles between yourselves first start?” He gives the following answer: “You want something and you haven’t got it; so you are prepared to kill. You have an ambition that you cannot satisfy; so you fight to get your way by force.” Likewise, in today’s gospel, we see the disciples of Jesus fighting among themselves over the issue of power. They were arguing over which of them was the greatest.

Both jealousy and ambition stem from a sense of insecurity. When we are not comfortable with ourselves, when we feel that we are not good enough and that others are better off than us, when we feel that others threaten our status and position, we feel jealous. Jealousy affects our relationship with others. In fact, jealousy destroys relationship because when we are jealous of others, we try to work for their downfall. Jealousy leads to gossip and slander. One of the worst threats to community living is gossip, especially gossip arising from jealousy. The easiest way to destroy a person is by destroying his reputation. Sad to say many of us are often guilty of this. When we feel that others are doing better than us, when we feel that others have more knowledge or experience, when we feel that others are more popular than us, we feel threatened. A community that is filled with jealousy among its members will be wrecked by the same jealousy. If all our energies go into our petty squabbles instead of putting our hands to the plow in building God’s kingdom, we will be the stumbling block for the whole community and for the kingdom of God.

Are we guilty of jealousy and ambition among ourselves? Are we allowing our jealousy to destroy this community? Do we encourage and support one another in our ministry and good works or do we always try to find something negative about what the other person is doing? If this is happening, then we must put a stop to it immediately. Jesus has this to say to all of us: “If anyone wants to be first, he must make himself last of all and servant of all.” We are called to humble service. We are called to work with one another to build God’s kingdom. We are called to conversion.

Conversion can only take place through prayer. St. James reminds us to pray – to pray not only for our selfish motives, to pray not only for the success of our own projects. We must pray for one another and for the whole community. We must pray that this community in the Chapel of St. Theresa, Nilai, will become a reflection of the values of the kingdom of God – a place of love, mutual acceptance and forgiveness. But prayer is not enough. We must be prepared to change our ways and heal our relationships with one another. Let us stop pointing the finger at one another. Today, Jesus invites us to look honestly at ourselves and pray for the conversion that is needed.

A Million Minutes for Peace

The United Nations has declared September 21 as the International Day of Peace. Join people of other cultures and faiths and be part of this world-wide campaign to pledge a minute of prayer for peace in the world and in our country. One minute for a pledge. One minute for prayer. You could be a part of "a million minutes for peace."

Our Lady of Sorrows, September 15

Our Lady of Sorrows (Latin: Beata Maria Virgo Perdolens), the Sorrowful Mother or Mother of Sorrows (Latin: Mater Dolorosa, at times just Dolorosa), and Our Lady of the Seven Sorrows or Our Lady of the Seven Dolours are names by which the Blessed Virgin Mary is referred to in relation to sorrows in her life.

The Seven Sorrows of Mary are a popular devotion in the Roman Catholic Church and is commemorated each year by the Church on September, 15th. There is a devotional prayer which consists of meditation on her Seven Sorrows. Also, there is a corresponding devotion to the Seven Joys of Mary.

The Seven Sorrows (or Dolors) are events in the life of the Blessed Virgin Mary which are a popular devotion and are frequently depicted in art.

1. The Prophecy of Simeon over the Infant Jesus. (Luke 2:34)
2. The Flight into Egypt of the Holy Family. (Matthew 2:13)
3. The Loss of the Child Jesus for Three Days. (Luke 2:43)
4. The Meeting of Jesus and Mary along the Way of the Cross. (Luke 23:26)
5. The Crucifixion, where Mary stands at the foot of the cross. (John 19:25)
6. The Descent from the Cross, where Mary receives the dead body of Jesus in her arms. (Matthew 27:57)
7. The Burial of Jesus. (John 19:40)

The feast of the Our Lady of Sorrows was originated by a provincial synod of Cologne in 1413 as a response to the iconoclast Hussites. It was designated for the Friday after the third Sunday after Easter. It had the title: Commemoratio angustix et doloris B. Marix V. Before the 16th century, the feast was celebrated only in parts of Northern Europe.

No feast in her honour was included in St Pius V's 1570 Tridentine Calendar. Vatican approval for the celebration of a feast in honor of Our Lady of Sorrows was first granted to the Servite order in 1667.

By inserting the feast into the Roman Catholic calendar of saints in 1814, Pope Pius VII extended the celebration to the whole of the Latin Church. It was assigned to the third Sunday in September. In 1913, Pope Pius X moved the feast to September 15, the day after the Feast of the Cross. It is still observed on that date.

College Students Gathering and Fellowship

The students from the colleges in and around Nilai, MIAT, KTT, Inti, Nilai, got together last night for an evening of praise and worship, games, fellowship, food and bible study.

Gotong Royong Volunteers - A Big Thanks

A big thank you to the 11 persons who came yesterday, September 12th, to spruce up our Chapel grounds in preparation for our Feast Day and Triduum. It was most encouraging to see three children below the age of 13 come forward to lend a hand.

This is our Chapel. This is God's house. It is our Home!!! Let's continue to care for it for His greater glory. Hope to see more of you the next time.

Feast of Exultation/ Triumph of the Cross, September 14

This feast is called in Greek Ὕψωσις τοῦ Τιμίου Σταυροῦ (literally, "Raising Aloft of the Precious Cross"). In Latin it is called Exaltatio Sanctae Crucis (literally, "Raising Aloft of the Holy Cross". (The word "Exaltatio" is sometimes translated as "Exaltation", at other times, as in the 1973 ICEL translation, as "Triumph".) In some parts of the Anglican Communion the feast is called Holy Cross Day, a name also used by Lutherans.

The True Cross is said to have been discovered in 326 by Saint Helena, the mother of the Roman Emperor Constantine I (venerated in the Eastern Church as Saint Constantine), during a pilgrimage she made to Jerusalem. The Church of the Holy Sepulchre was then built at the site of the discovery, by order of Helena and Constantine. The church was dedicated nine years later, with a portion of the cross placed inside it. In 614, that portion of the cross was carried away from the church by the Persians, and remained missing until it was recaptured by the Byzantine Emperor Heraclius in 628. The cross was returned to the church the following year after initially having been taken to Constantinople by Heraclius.

The date used for the feast marks the dedication of the Church of the Holy Sepulchre in 335. This was a two-day festival: although the actual consecration of the church was on September 13, the cross itself was brought outside the church on September 14 so that the clergy and faithful could pray before the True Cross, and all could come forward to venerate it.

The celebration is sometimes called Feast of the Glorious Cross. [Christians "exalt" the Cross of Christ as the instrument of our salvation. Adoration of the Cross is, thus, adoration of Jesus Christ, the God Man, who suffered and died on this Roman instrument of torture for our redemption from sin and death. The cross represents the One Sacrifice by which Jesus, obedient even unto death, accomplished our salvation. The cross is a symbolic summary of the Passion, Crucifixion and Resurrection of Christ - all in one image.

The Feast of the Holy Cross is celebrated with great pomp among the Portuguese community of Melaka. This celebration usually stretches over three days, from the 13th to 15th of September, and is marked not only by Eucharistic celebrations, devotional practices of pilgrims and devotees but also by candlelit processions and cultural shows which are centred around the site located on Malim hill. The locals call it Festa Santa Cruz and draws not only locals but also Catholic pilgrims from all over Malaysia and Singapore.

The quaint Chapel of Santa Cruz on top of Malim Hill along the old Malacca-Alor Gajah trunk road has been surrounded for generations by an intriguing mix of mystery, legends and faithful devotion.

Despite the chapel’s origin laced with nothing concrete, the Feast of Santa Cruz continues to draw more Catholic pilgrims and non-Christian devotees.

Located between an old rubber estate and an ancient Chinese graveyard, the chapel, which comes under the jurisdiction of Malacca’s St. Peter’s Church, is open only once a year during the commemoration of the feast and has been a place of Catholic homage for over 150 years.

The quaint Chapel of Santa Cruz on top of Malim Hill along the old Malacca-Alor Gajah trunk road has been surrounded for generations by an intriguing mix of mystery, legends and faithful devotion.

Despite the chapel’s origin laced with nothing concrete, the Feast of Santa Cruz continues to draw more Catholic pilgrims and non-Christian devotees.

Located between an old rubber estate and an ancient Chinese graveyard, the chapel, which comes under the jurisdiction of Malacca’s St. Peter’s Church, is open only once a year during the commemoration of the feast and has been a place of Catholic homage for over 150 years. Historically, there is little to substantiate the basis for the beliefs and devotions surrounding the chapel but a small wooden chapel was built between 1870 and 1880 following the discovery of a cross in the vicinity. The then wooden edifice was eventually replaced by the present brick building.

Indeed, tracing the origins of the Feast of Santa Cruz proves an interesting exercise with varied versions from sources lending still more mystique.

Several accounts tell the tale of a certain devout Catholic lady from Kubu in Malacca who had fallen ill and all possible medical aid was given to her but to no avail. Then, one night in her dreams, an old man appeared and told her that a cross would be found at the top of Malim Hill.

A couple of days later with the assistance of several neighbours, the women’s family found a 46cm high wooden cross on the hill, partially covered by a termites’ nest.

Still another version attributes the finding of a wooden cross to one of the children of Joanna Sta Maria of the Portuguese community residing in Tengkera. The child supposedly dreamt for three consecutive nights about a small cross that should be sought after at Malim Hill.

Others are more prosaic when discussing the origins of the feast. According to the book Survival Through Human Values authored by the late Fr Manuel Pintado a former parish priest of St Peter’s, Malacca was a Christian town from 1511 to 1641 with a church or chapel along every street and atop hills.

The cross could well have been a grave marker or affixed to a place of worship which subsequently went into ruin during the 154-year Dutch occupation of Malacca where the practice of the Catholic faith was not permitted, said Fr. Pintado

Whatever the origins of the cross may be, the Feast of Santa Cruz will continue to draw large numbers of pilgrims and devotees to Malacca yearly in September.

The Cross - because of what it represents - is the most potent and universal symbol of the Christian faith. It has inspired both liturgical and private devotions: for example, the Sign of the Cross, which is an invocation of the Holy Trinity; the "little" Sign of the Cross on head, lips and heart at the reading of the Gospel; praying the Stations (or Way) of the Cross; and the Veneration of the Cross by the faithful on Good Friday by kissing the feet of the image of Our Savior crucified.

Placing a crucifix (the cross with an image of Christ's body upon it) in churches and homes, in classrooms of Catholic schools and in other Catholic institutions, or wearing this image on our persons, is a constant reminder - and witness - of Christ's ultimate triumph, His victory over sin and death through His suffering and dying on the Cross.

We remember Our Lord's words, "He who does not take up his cross and follow me is not worthy of me. He who finds his life will lose it, and he who loses his life for my sake shall find it." (Mt 10:38,39). Meditating on these words we unite ourselves - our souls and bodies - with His obedience and His sacrifice; and we rejoice in this inestimable gift through which we have the hope of salvation and the glory.

Dying, you destroyed our death; rising you restored our life.
Save us by your cross, Christ our Redeemer.