On 15 August 2026, a strong magnitude 7.7 earthquake hit Flores, Indonesia, causing extensive destruction and leaving at least 116 people dead, 1,678 injured, and over 161,000 people displaced. More than 77,900 people were reported to be living in evacuation centres, while homes, schools, places of worship and other facilities were damaged. Many families are now facing the difficult process of rebuilding their lives. Just two weeks later, on 26 August, another tragedy struck

We celebrated World Humanitarian Day on 19 August 2026, a special occasion that reminds us of those who risk their lives and safety to help others. It also invites us to reflect on our own calling as Christians: to love our neighbours and, like the Good Samaritan, to recognise those who are suffering and respond with kindness, compassion, and mercy. Jesus calls us to be His hands and feet in a broken world. Catholic Social Teaching reminds us of the importance of solidarity

This month of August, our Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, together with the Dioceses of Penang and Johor-Melaka, especially commemorate and pray for “Prospects” – prisoners and all involved in Prison Ministry. Over the last 40 years, this ministry has actively supported prospects, their families, former prospects, and individuals who are seeking a fresh start after incarceration. It is a ministry of compassion, hope, and accompaniment. At its heart, Prison Ministry mainly focuse

Every year on 4 August, the Church celebrates the memorial of St. Jean-Marie Vianney. His life reminds every priest that the heart of the priesthood lies not in success or recognition, but in faithful service to God and His people. Through his deep love for the Eucharist, countless hours hearing confessions, and his compassion for those entrusted to him, he has become a model of a true shepherd after the heart of Christ. The life of a priest today is both joyful and challengi

Pope Leo XIV’s Prayer Intention for August 2026: “Let us pray that in large cities often marked by anonymity and loneliness we find new ways to proclaim the Gospel, discovering creative paths to build community.” Our East Coast cities – Kuantan, Kuala Terengganu and Kota Bharu – continue to grow and develop rapidly. The expansion of new housing areas, businesses, roads and tourist attractions has created many opportunities. Life has become faster and busier, with families bal

This year, the Sixth World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly (WDGE) will be observed on 26 July 2026 (Feast of Saints Joachim and Anne), calling us to honour seniors and acknowledge their vital role in our families, parishes, and society. In his first message for this annual celebration, Pope Leo XIV emphasises that every elderly person is precious in God's sight and should never feel forgotten or abandoned. The Holy Father invites us to become a Church that listens, accom

On Sunday, 26 July 2026, the universal Church observes the 6th World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, which falls on the Feast of Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus. This meaningful celebration, established to overcome loneliness among the elderly and to recognise their priceless role in families and in the life of the Church, carries the comforting theme: “I will never forget you” (Isaiah 49: 15). As a Parish family, we also remember with gratitude the m

As the FIFA World Cup reaches its thrilling semi-final stage, millions around the world are eagerly watching their favourite teams, inspired by their discipline, teamwork, perseverance, and determination. Watching this excitement unfold, I cannot help but reflect on our own Parish community. For nine grace-filled days, we gathered as one family to celebrate our Novena and Thanksgiving in honour of St. Thomas the Apostle. No medals or trophies were won, yet something far more

As we begin the month of July, the Holy Father invites the universal Church to pray for respect for human life. His intention is clear: “Let us pray for the protection and respect for human life at all stages, recognising it as a gift from God.” In a world where life is often measured by usefulness, productivity, or convenience, we are challenged to see every human person through the eyes of God. From the unborn child to the elderly, from the healthy to the sick, from the suc

A relic is a sacred object associated with a saint and is treasured by the Church as a tangible connection to those who lived heroic lives of holiness. A first-class relic is a physical part of the saint’s body, such as a bone fragment. Relics remind us that the saints were real people who faithfully followed Christ and now intercede for us before God. Through them, we are encouraged to grow in faith, holiness, and devotion. After several months of communication and arrange

The image is obtained from the internet The weather in Kuantan has been extremely hot and dry over the past few weeks. Day after day, many of us have endured scorching temperatures with very little rain. Whether at work, in school, at home, or attending church activities, the heat takes a toll on our bodies. Medical experts remind us constantly of the importance of staying hydrated, especially during periods of prolonged hot weather. Drinking sufficient water throughout the d

This year, the Parish of Saint Thomas, the Apostle, Kuantan, celebrates a significant milestone – its 120th Anniversary. Over the past twelve decades, countless lives have been touched by the witness of faith, the proclamation of the Gospel, and the grace bestowed through the various sacraments within this Parish community. The earliest baptism records date back to 25 March 1906, when the first three individuals – Joseph Liao Ah Gni, Andrew Teu Ah Mau, and Lazarus Voun Sui Ts

Image Obtained from to the Internet As the world turns its attention to the FIFA World Cup, billions of people from every continent will come together to share in the excitement of football. For a few weeks, differences of language, culture, nationality, and social status would seem to fade as people unite in support of their teams. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will commence on 11 June and conclude on 19 July 2026, hosted jointly by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. It will

As May, the Month of the Rosary, comes to an end, our hearts are filled with gratitude to God and to our Blessed Virgin Mary for the wonderful spiritual blessings we have received throughout this lovely month. From the very beginning of the month until its conclusion, many Catholics faithfully gathered to pray the Rosary – individually, as families, and as prayer groups. It was truly a month filled with prayer, reflection, and devotion to Mother Mary. As a Parish community, w

We have reached the end of the Easter season after seven weeks of reflection on the mysteries and encounters with the Risen Lord. This weekend, the Church prepares for Pentecost, the coming of the Holy Spirit. Pentecost is not just the conclusion of Easter but also a continuation of our spiritual journey with the Risen Lord, guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit who filled the apostles, continues to strengthen and guide the Church today. Before Pentecost, t

In his message for the 60th World Communications Day, written on the Memorial of Saint Francis de Sales, patron saint of journalists and writers, Pope Leo XIV reflects deeply on the impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital communication on human life and relationships. The Holy Father reminds us that every human being is unique, with faces and voices that reveal identity, dignity, and relationships. Each person is called to communicate truth, love, and compassion. C

As we celebrate Mother’s Day this weekend, let’s take a moment to cherish the fact that mothers are among God’s greatest gifts to the world. Just as the Holy Spirit is a divine gift that strengthens, comforts, and guides us, our mothers are also instruments of God’s love, filling our lives with warmth and maternal care. Through their sacrifices, gentle care, patience, and constant prayers, they bring hope to every family. Many mothers silently carry heavy burdens – juggling

The month of May holds a special place in the heart of the Catholic Church. It is traditionally dedicated to our Blessed Virgin Mary, a time when Catholics all over the world renew their love for the Rosary. This devotion is not simply a repetition of prayers, but a gentle and profound journey through the life of Christ, seen through the eyes of Mary. The Rosary has taken deep root in Catholic hearts over the centuries. Its origins are often linked to Saint Dominic, who is be

Pope Leo XIV, in his message for the 63rd World Day of Prayer for Vocations, invites us to rediscover vocations as an inward journey of encountering God’s free gift, which blossoms in the depths of our hearts. Rooted in the image of Jesus Christ as the Good Shepherd, vocations are seen as beautiful paths in which life becomes meaningful and radiant when lived in close relationship with the Lord. The Holy Father highlights that God’s beauty is discovered through prayer, sile

As we journey through the Easter season—a time of renewal, hope, and new life—the Church invites us this month to widen our hearts in prayer, especially for priests. For April 2026, the Holy Father, Pope Leo XIV, calls the entire Church to pray in a special way for priests who are going through moments of crisis. The Holy Father’s intention truly touches the reality of priestly life. Priests, though called and consecrated for service, remain human and vulnerable. They, too, e