MCC releases theme for 2018 Catechetical Sunday

MELAKA – The Malaysian Catechetical Commission (MCC) released the theme for next year’s Catechetical Sunday at its meeting held on 9-13 Oct 2017 at the Good Shepherd Catholic Seminary here.

Nineteen delegates from the different arch/dioceses/vicariate in the Malaysia-Singapore- Brunei Region attended the meeting chaired by Jesuit Father Alvin Ho of Kuala Lumpur.  In attendance was Bishop Cornelius Piong, episcopal president of the commission.

The meeting began with Mass on Oct 9, presided by Father Simon Yong SJ from the Diocese of Melaka- Johor and the meeting closed with a Mass presided by Bp Piong on Oct 13.

In his homily, the prelate encouraged all MCC members to move forward united in God, serving with Him so that we may serve as He served and be ready to face the challenges in the catechetical ministry in line with the theme for Catechetical Sunday 2018: “Christ, our Hope.”

The meeting deliberated on many issues and concerns. One of the deliberations was to discuss on the theme for Catechetical Sunday 2018: “Christ, Our Hope” (Heb.10:23). The theme was chosen in continuation with 2017 theme, “Christ, Our Joy.” And for this year, all are urged to be more hopeful in spite of all the challenges, sacrifices and persecution encountered. The reflection for this theme will be prepared by Father Michael Sia of Miri Diocese.

Other deliberations pertained to the outcome of the Malaysian Catechetical Series survey carried out within the year, the needs of the MCS, the formation of catechists at diocesan and national levels, the catechetical weekend camps, and the syllabus for RCIA process.

The last item on the agenda dealt with reports from the arch/diocesan catechetical commissions.

In his closing remarks, the chairman thanked everyone for their active participation at the meeting.

Sibu Diocese will host the next meeting on 27-31 Aug 2018. – sr dariah ajap fsic