Herald Malaysia
BUKIT TINGGI, Pahang – The Archdiocesan Creation Justice Ministry, in collaboration with Camp Red, organised a Mass in nature to mark the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. Held on Sep 6, the celebration invited participants to encounter God through the beauty of creation and to renew their commitment to caring for the environment as stewards of His gift.
The outdoor Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Archbishop Julian Leow, with Fr Andrew Manickam, OFM Cap concelebrating. The gathering of 149 people, comprising both young and the young at heart, assembled amidst the serenity of nature — surrounded by lush greenery, the gentle sounds of rustling leaves, flowing water, chirping birds, and singing insects — creating a sacred atmosphere that fostered reflection and reverence.
In his homily, Archbishop Julian drew attention to the beauty of the natural environment surrounding them. He emphasised that all goodness, beauty, and joy originate from God, the Creator of all. He reflected, “Everything that’s beautiful, wonderful, and that brings joy to you… there’s a beautiful author of Mother Nature. Give praise and thanks to the Creator of creation.” The archbishop reminded everyone that it is easy to overlook the Creator in our daily lives and sometimes blame Him when faced with difficulties. Yet, he urged the faithful to recognise God’s hand in all of creation.
He reflected on the biblical account of creation, noting that “God created everything good, even on the sixth day, everything was good.” However, he acknowledged that sin has marred this beauty, emphasising our responsibility to preserve and protect what remains. “We are called to be good ‘Stewards of Creation,’” he stated, urging everyone to care for Mother Nature just as it sustains and nurtures us.
Throughout the Mass, the congregation was invited to listen attentively to the divine presence manifested in the natural sounds around them. The experience served as a powerful reminder of the divine craftsmanship evident in every leaf, stream, and songbird. It was a call to action — to be custodians of God’s gift of creation by caring for and preserving the environment for future generations.
After breakfast, the participants split into different groups to cover the different trails and then proceeded to the waterfall that brought so much joy to all. The treks had colourful fungi, fluttering butterflies and leaves all delicately crafted by the Creator.
This event marked the first-ever Mass held in nature organised by the Archdiocesan Creation Justice Ministry, and it successfully fostered a sense of community and shared responsibility. The gathering concluded with a renewed commitment to nurture and safeguard the Earth, trusting that our efforts honour the Creator’s loving design.
Let us listen, learn, and act together for the good of our planet, recognising that through our stewardship, we participate in God’s ongoing creation and care. Archdiocesan Creation Justice Ministry. – Herald Malaysia
