Herald Malaysia
SEREMBAN – Slightly over 100 youth from parishes across the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur recently gathered at the Church of the Visitation for a faith-filled program celebrating unity, hope, and the vital role of young people in the Church.
The event began with registration, followed by an uplifting Praise and Worship session that brought together youth from all language groups in a spirit of joy and fellowship.
This was followed by a talk by Fr Michel Dass, who reflected on the Jubilee of Hope. He reminded the youth that they are never alone on their journey of faith and that true hope never disappoints. Fr Michel encouraged everyone to be people of hope, hopeful enough to walk together, support one another, and trust that God accompanies us through every season of life.
Just before Mass, participants took part in a Rosary Walk, offering their prayers as a community and entrusting their lives, vocations, and hopes to Our Blessed Mother. This moment of prayerful reflection prepared hearts for the Eucharistic Celebration that followed.
The Eucharistic Celebration was celebrated by Fr Michel, with Fr Xavier Andrew, Fr Christopher Soosaipillai, Fr Christopher Loh, OCD, and Fr Chin Sin Wee, OCD concelebrating. In his inspiring homily, Fr Michel reminded the parish community that youth are a precious gift from God, deserving of our full love, trust, and acceptance. He gently urged everyone to see young people for who they truly are, rather than judging them by their clothing, appearance, or how well they seem to “fit in.” What matters most, he emphasised, is the heart — a heart that is curious, eager to learn, and growing in faith.
Fr Michel spoke passionately about the importance of giving young people the space to serve and learn. Too often, adults say, “They don’t know enough,” or “They’re not ready.” Yet he challenged the community to reflect: how can young people ever grow if they are never given a chance? When youth are allowed to participate, to try, and even to make mistakes, their unique talents, gifts, and God-given creativity begin to shine.
He encouraged the Church to welcome young people just as they are, creating a space where they truly feel at home. Fr Michel also reminded everyone that no honest work is small or unworthy. Whether one becomes a professional, a priest, or even a lorry driver, every vocation is valuable and dignified. The true measure of life, he said, lies not in titles or social comparisons, but in the sincerity, effort, and faith with which one lives.
Turning to parents, Fr Michel spoke with great tenderness about the pressures often placed on children. Many parents push their children toward certain courses or careers simply because “someone else’s child is doing it.” He reminded the congregation that every journey has its own pace and purpose. Priestly formation may take eight years, a university degree several years, and a diploma a shorter period—yet each path is meaningful, and no journey should be seen as lesser than another.
He encouraged parents to trust their children, guiding them with love while giving them the freedom to discover their own calling. When young people are nurtured with trust, encouragement, and patience instead of pressure or comparison, they flourish in ways beyond what we could ever imagine.
Fr Michel’s message was simple yet powerful: when we choose love over judgment, encouragement over criticism, and trust over fear, the Church becomes a true home — a place where youths can grow in faith, embrace their gifts, and walk confidently on the path God has prepared for them. – Herald Malaysia
