Fr Andrew Manickam OFM Cap celebrating Mass during the half day recollection
By Herald Malaysia
Apr 17 2023
KUALA LUMPUR – A half-day recollection by the Archdiocesan Prayer Ministry (APM) was held at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Institute (API) on April 1.
The recollection began with Mass followed by a reflection on Thomas Merton’s prayer, which encouraged the attendees to reflect on their true selves and derive a daily mantra for self-fulfilment.
In the second session, APM Ecclesiastical Assistant, Fr Andrew Manickam OFM Cap discussed the theme of restoration, using examples from the Bible such as the Prodigal Son and three prophets. He emphasised that restoration requires hard work and can be a painful process, but it is ultimately worth it.
The participants also took time to reflect on how God reached out to them during their lowest points in life, and were reminded that God is always present amid the storm.
The recollection ended with Holy Hour, where the attendees prayed for the protection, guidance, forgiveness, healing, and good health of the Pope and the clergy.
The Thomas Merton Prayer – My Lord God, I have no idea where I am going. I do not see the road ahead of me. I cannot know for certain where it will end. Nor do I really know myself, and the fact that I think that I am following Your Will does not mean that I am actually doing so. But I believe that the desire to please You does in fact please You. – Herald Malaysia
