By Gwen Manickam
SELANGOR – In a heartfelt celebration of six decades of faith-filled service and evangelisation through media, the Daughters of St Paul (DSP) hosted their 60th Anniversary Fundraising Gala Dinner on Jul 12 at the Kelab Golf Negara Subang. The evening brought together around 500 friends, benefactors, clergy, religious, and supporters, fostering a spirit of thanksgiving, joy, and hope for the congregation’s ongoing mission in Peninsular Malaysia.
DSP Fundraising chairperson Mary Reggie opened the evening with words of gratitude and unity, warmly acknowledging the presence of clergy, religious guests, attendees, and her 19-member organising committee.
“Tonight, we celebrate generosity, community, and the extraordinary spirit that binds us in a shared mission. Your support will help the Daughters of St Paul Convent improve its facilities and strengthen its ministry. This evening is about more than fundraising — it’s about fostering hope, building community, and proving that when we come together for a common purpose, remarkable things unfold,” said Mary.
Sr Elizabeth Jothee, FSP, the local superior, affectionately known as Sr Liz, who recently celebrated her silver jubilee of Religious Profession in the Philippines, expressed profound gratitude to those who made the evening unforgettable. She acknowledged the parish priest of the Church of the Assumption, Fr Leonard Lexson, her fellow religious sisters, the dedicated Pauline Cooperators, as well as the generous benefactors, sponsors, donors, organising committee, family, and friends whose steadfast support and encouragement helped bring the celebration to life.
Quoting Matthew 5:16, Sr Liz remarked, “Everything you see this evening is a testament to the goodness of our God and the blessings He has bestowed on our congregation as we celebrate our 60th anniversary.” She closed her welcome with the timeless words of St Paul: “‘I thank my God each time I think of you’ (Philippians 1:3). We will always hold this jubilee and our anniversary close to our hearts.”
The evening’s energy soared during a lively auction featuring both sacred and secular artworks. Highlights included a watercolour pastel painting of Pope Francis, a Divine Mercy painting by ML Casey — enthusiastically bid for by YB Teresa Kok — a finely embroidered cross-stitch of the Last Supper, a framed replica of the iconic Roman masterpiece, among others, each reflecting a sense of faith and artistry.
Parishioners and friends of the Church of the Assumption took centre stage for an unforgettable evening of vibrant entertainment. The night kicked off with comedian Andrew Netto as the charismatic emcee, setting a lively tone from the start. The lineup featured stirring musical performances by the Daughters of St Paul (DSP) sisters from both East and West Malaysia, Fr Leonard Lexson, Dato’ Francissca Peter, Aaron Frankie, and the ever-energetic 53rd Street Band. Adding a fresh twist to the night, award-winning 16-year-old DJ Lollipop had the crowd on their feet, spinning electrifying tracks that kept the dance floor buzzing well into the night.
The Convent needs more than RM1 million to upgrade its facilities after 60 years. Kindly contact Sr Elizabeth (+6014-6044937) should you wish to donate in support of their work. – Herald Malaysia
