Salt provides flavour to food we eat and preserves food so they can last longer. Such characteristic reminds us of Saint Joseph, the patron saint of workers, who was essentially the salt of the earth that constantly worked hard to provide for and protect the Holy Family.
Saint Joseph then dutifully carried out his role as earthly father to Jesus Christ who is the light of the world that provides that pathway of eternal salvation to mankind.
“Salt of the earth, light of the world” was selected as the befitting theme in commemorating the Feast of Saint Joseph, the Worker, in our parish this year.
The feast celebration was preceded by the 9-day Novena from 23 to 30 April 2023 in devotion of Saint Joseph, which was graced by various celebrants and con-celebrants from the clergy of the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur.
We were reminded that each one of us is called to be missionaries of hope as we reach out to proclaim and share the Word to the world.
Each day of the Novena Masses carried a special sub-theme as reflection of the virtues of Saint Joseph, the patron of workers, fathers and families.
We were encouraged by Saint Joseph to bring the light of Christ to children and others; co-worker in the vineyard of the Lord as we share the work and cooperate in building God’s kingdom; prophet and teacher in the mission to bring the Word of God to those who do not recognise God; man of faith and obedience by listening to God’s voice and having the faith that brings us closer to God; man of integrity at work by being useful in building God’s kingdom; and guardian of the family by protecting and guarding loved ones from danger.
The Litany of Saint Joseph and the hymn, Holy Patron, Thee Saluting, are perfect reminders of his humility as the figure of fatherhood, love and fidelity. Saint Joseph, being the foster father of Jesus and a man of love who vigilantly followed the will of God, was a silent witness who worked hard to provide for the Holy Family.
The Youth Rally which took place over the weekend was powerful in instilling courage and strength in our young people to forge forward and carry out God’s will. The rally was coordinated by the youth for the youth with guidance from several seasoned facilitators of the parish.
The elderly and the sick were not forgotten. A Healing Mass was held to provide them healing and penance. The faithful were reminded of faith in Jesus Christ who performed many miracles healing the sick.
The faithful from our parish, including the Myanmarese, Sri Lankan and Pakistani communities, came together in solidarity to celebrate the feast day on 1 May 2023 with Holy Mass followed by procession of the patron Saint Joseph. Unfortunately, the procession route had to be shortened due to adverse weather conditions. The feast ended with fellowship and a cake cutting ceremony to commemorate Father Vincent Thomas, the feast main celebrant’s sixth sacerdotal anniversary.
Through the generosity of the BECs of our parish, the faithful were able to mingle in fellowships after the daily Novena Masses and in building continued rapport.
It is hoped that through this feast celebration the parishioners will continue living up to the communal spirit in our universal church and in Sentul and emulate the many virtues of Saint Joseph in life.
By Alan Jong
Parish Co-ordinating Council Chairman
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