By Herald Malaysia
SEREMBAN – The Church of the Visitation celebrated the Feast of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary from May 28-Jun 1. Centred on the theme Mary, Our Companion as Pilgrims of Hope, the weeklong spiritual journey was guided by parish priest, Fr Xavier Andrew, with reflections and homilies delivered by guest preacher, Fr Arul Mani Josephraj from India.
The celebration culminated with a grand feast day Mass presided over by Archbishop Julian Leow, together with several priests including Fr Kenneth Gopal, OCD, Fr Sin Wee, OCD, and Fr Adrian Francis.
The celebration began with a reflection on Mary as the new Eve, the vessel through whom salvation entered the world. Quoting St Louis de Montfort’s famous words, “To Jesus through Mary,” Fr Arul Mani reminded the faithful that Mary brings Christ into our lives by her presence and example. As the Church journeys in hope, we are called to imitate her virtues, particularly her humility and her powerful intercession. Mary’s fiat is a constant invitation to say “yes” to God’s plan in our own lives.
On the second day, the focus shifted to obedience, a hallmark of Mary’s life. Drawing from 1 Corinthians 15:14 and other Pauline writings, Fr Arul Mani emphasised that obedience opens the door to grace. “Be it done unto me according to thy word,” was not only Mary’s response but an expression of total surrender to God. The preacher explained that grace leads to faith, peace, and ultimately blessings, highlighting the three types of grace: saving, sanctifying, and sustaining. Mary, full of grace, models for us a life fully open to God’s gifts.
The third day explored the distinction between faith and devotion. Fr Arul Mani noted that while devotion is an act of love toward God, faith is rooted in obedience to His will. Devotion is the starting point; faith is the transformation that must follow. Referencing Hebrews 11:6, “Without faith it is impossible to please God,” he warned against shallow religiosity that lacks true transformation. Mary, who said, “Do whatever He tells you” (John 2:5), demonstrates that authentic devotion must grow into deep, living faith.
The Feast day itself brought together many in joyful celebration, with a solemn Mass led by Archbishop Julian Leow. Mary was honoured as the model of purity and holiness virtues necessary to enter the kingdom of heaven, as stated in Revelation 21:27. Citing the wisdom of the saints and scriptures such as Psalms 37:23 and Isaiah 30:21, Fr Arul Mani encouraged the faithful to strive for holiness by submitting wholly to God’s will. Mary’s life, wholly aligned with God, stands as a radiant example of virtue for all Christians.
The celebration concluded with a Thanksgiving Mass reflecting on Mary as the soul that magnifies the Lord. Fr Arul Mani reminded the congregation that our purpose in life is to know, love, and serve God. St Paul’s exhortation to live a life worthy of God’s calling was echoed in his homily, alongside the reminder that true worship is our highest form of glorifying God. Quoting Padre Pio, “If you are distracted, you are not fully focused,” he encouraged attentive, sincere worship rooted in love for both God and neighbour.
This year’s Feast of the Visitation reminded us all that Mary journeys with us — not only as a historical figure but as a living presence guiding us as pilgrims of hope. Through her example of humility, obedience, devotion, purity, and glorification of God, we are invited to live more fully our call as disciples of Christ. – Herald Malaysia
