By Bernard Anthony
BESTARI JAYA, Selangor – The Catholic Community of Bestari Jaya, along with surrounding chapel communities, marked a major milestone this year as they celebrated the 60th anniversary of the Church of St Paul the Hermit, from Jan 15-19. The celebrations coincided with the parish’s annual feast day, honouring St Paul the Hermit.
The five-day event began on Jan 15 with a prayer & worship service, followed by a series of Masses and homilies throughout the week. On Jan 16, Fr Gnana Selvam Berentis from the Church of Our Lady of Lourdes, Klang, delivered a homily on the theme Be Cured. The following day, Fr Vincent Thomas from the Church of St Joseph, Rawang, spoke on Entering the Place of Rest. The final two days of the feast, Jan 18 and 19, saw Fr James Gabriel, parish priest of the Church of St Paul the Hermit, leading the celebrations and preaching on the theme Do Whatever He Tells You.
In addition to the daily Masses, the community also participated in the Rosary and Novena to St Paul the Hermit. The highlight of the week occurred on Jan 18, when the church was filled to capacity for the 60th anniversary Mass. Fr James cut a commemorative cake later that evening during a gala night that followed the Mass.
Fr James reflected on the parish’s journey, emphasising the significance of the 60 years of growth and faith. “It is a meaningful and great celebration, a milestone and a turning point for us,” he said. “The Lord comes to visit us again, pouring His life into us and considering us His beloved.” He also drew parallels between the anniversary and the biblical story of the miracle at the wedding in Cana, underscoring the relationship between Christ and the Church.
In his bilingual homily, Fr James spoke of God’s grace, stating that the Catholic community in Bestari Jaya had been chosen by God, not because of their greatness, but through His pure grace. “You did not choose Me, I chose you,” he quoted from the Gospel, encouraging the congregation to renew their covenant with the Lord and continue their faithful journey.
The celebration culminated with Benediction. Following the Mass, the organising chairman welcomed all attendees, including pilgrims from other areas, and thanked sponsors for their support. Fr James also expressed gratitude to those who had helped organise the event, before inviting all present to a fellowship dinner on the parish grounds. The evening continued with a lively gala night featuring drama, songs, and dances. Prayer cards commemorating the 60th anniversary were distributed to all attendees.
The Church of St Paul the Hermit has come a long way since its humble beginnings. The original building was replaced with a modern structure, which was officially opened in November 2010. The Catholic community in Bestari Jaya has flourished in recent years, and the 60th anniversary celebrations served as a testament to the parish’s enduring faith and growth.
As the celebrations concluded, Fr James reminded the community to continue to trust in God’s presence and to honour the legacy of St Paul the Hermit through prayer and intercession. – Herald Malaysia
