By Andrew and Veronica Lim
KUALA LUMPUR – Responding to the Lord’s invitation to step away from the busyness of daily life, 27 parishioners from across the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur gathered for a retreat themed Transforming from Disciples to Missionary Disciples. Organised by AMNEC (Archdiocesan Mission of New Evangelisation for Christ), the retreat was held at the Church of Our Lady of Fatima.
The retreat began with praise and worship led by Cornerstone Disciples, creating an atmosphere of openness and gratitude. Participants were invited to set aside daily concerns and listen attentively to God’s voice.
Retreat master Michael Xavier reflected on The Call of the First Disciples (Luke 5:1–11), leading participants into an examination of conscience. They were encouraged to revisit their first encounter with Christ, reflect on pivotal moments in their faith journey, and recognise how God has been guiding them towards evangelisation.
A highlight of the retreat was the opportunity for participants to pray for one another — a first-time experience for many. Parveen shared, “As I was being prayed over, I felt the presence of the Lord and a warmth surrounding me. It was a beautiful experience, and I felt at peace.”
Gabriel, who assisted in facilitating the retreat, touched many with his testimony. His sharing, together with a reflection on the Emmaus journey, invited participants to recognise Christ’s presence even in moments of struggle, disappointment and doubt.
Small group sessions further deepened the experience, as participants gathered in groups of five to share their faith journeys. These moments of openness became a source of encouragement, strengthening bonds within the community.
For Anna Ong from the Church of the Holy Family, Kajang, what stood out was the emphasis on personal and peer prayer, quiet reflection, journaling, and Conversation in the Spirit. “I now understand that being a missionary disciple simply means sharing our encounter with God’s love — our story — and that is not difficult to do,” she said.
In the stillness of prayer, many encountered the Lord in a deeper and more personal way, bringing before Him their hopes, struggles, and thanksgiving.
Reflecting on the retreat, Thomas Patrick said, “I experienced the Holy Spirit touching my heart in a deeply personal way, making God’s presence closer than ever before. I now see my faith as an overflow of the love I have received, and I feel called to reach out to others with renewed purpose.”
For Rosalind Xavier of the Church of the Holy Rosary, the retreat rekindled her faith and strengthened her desire to live as a missionary disciple, while Alizhar Arshad described it as “a powerful and blessed experience.”
Daniel Arputham’s testimony captured the essence of the retreat. “I realised that the Lord has been knocking on the door of my heart for a long time, but I failed to notice it. Through the Discovery programme and now this retreat, I have encountered Jesus’ love and mercy. I now desire to place Christ at the centre of every decision I make and to share His love with others.”
Those interested in learning more about the Discovery (AMNEC–CCO Faith Series) may contact 012-3313997 (Veronica) or 011-14322243 (Jane Maria). – Herald Malaysia
