Herald Malaysia
PELABUHAN KLANG – This year, St Anne’s parish celebrated its annual feast in alignment with the Universal Church’s Jubilee Year of Hope 2025, embracing the central theme, Spes non confundit – Hope does not disappoint (Romans 5:5).
The feast, which drew large numbers, was marked by reflections inspired by the Bull of Indiction of the Jubilee Year declared by the late Pope Francis. In keeping with the Holy Father’s call, the parish shaped its celebrations to focus on the transformative hope found in the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ, reminding the faithful that we are all “Called to be a Beacon of Hope.”
Each day of the Novena began with the Rosary and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, providing a contemplative atmosphere through silence and thematic reflections. These moments were designed to help the faithful prepare their hearts and minds for the celebration of the Eucharist.
Throughout the Novena, the preachers offered insights into God’s love and mercy, guiding the faithful to deepen their hope in Him.
Fr Cornelius Vianney reminded the congregation that in order to truly place and renew our hope in God, we must first embrace His presence and love. “It is by being rooted in His presence,” he said, “that we are able to place all our hope in Him — and in Him alone.”
Fr Edwin Peter, in his concluding words before the final blessing, urged the faithful to reflect on the difference between a wish, an expectation, and hope. He stressed the importance of anchoring ourselves in authentic Christian hope, echoing the Novena’s theme: “Hope does not disappoint.”
Fr Fabian Dicom, preaching on Mary, the Mother of Hope, Star of the Sea, described how Mary leads us to Jesus, the true source of hope. “Mary lights the way,” he said, “but we are called to be the lighthouse — a beacon of hope — right here where we are. It must begin now, begin today, with you and me, and begin with love.”
On his second day of preaching, Fr Fabian challenged the faithful to go beyond simply participating in a celebration. “This Novena is not just an event,” he declared, “but a movement being stirred and ignited. We must not leave tonight simply feeling good and blessed. We are being sent out, commissioned to be a Church that carries candles into caves, walks through storms with lamps held high, knocks until justice answers, seeks until the lost are found, and prays until heaven breaks in. We are not just waiting for the Jubilee — we are the Jubilee.”
The church grounds featured visual elements to enhance the spiritual journey. Prominent among them was a poster at the entrance displaying Hebrews 6:18–20, along with an image of an anchor — symbolising the steadfastness of hope in Christ.
This year’s feast was enriched by active participation from all generations. The Youth Rally on Jul 19, brought together around 70 young people to reflect on their role in becoming beacons of hope in the modern world.
On Jul 20, a Mass for children led by the Catechetical Ministry saw vibrant involvement from the youngest members of the parish.
The Mass on Jul 25 brought comfort and spiritual strength to the sick and elderly. Their overwhelming participation bore witness to the truth that “suffering in hope” is more than words — it is faith in action. Caregivers were specially acknowledged for their dedication and service.
The feast concluded with a thanksgiving Mass presided over by parish priest Fr David Arulanatham. Parishioners and pilgrims wore specially designed T-shirts bearing the theme Called to be a Beacon of Light. A symbolic moment during the Mass saw former altar servers (now adults) return to serve once more, dressed in cassock and surplice, representing the spirit of inclusion and lifelong service. “This is a Church for everyone,” Fr David said.
As the final blessing was given, Fr David offered a moving commission, “Go and become a Beacon of Hope to one another. Go and brighten the corner right where you are — now, here, today.” – Herald Malaysia
