A grace-filled journey to the East-Coast
The pilgrims with Frs Christopher Loh, OCD and Simon Agbo at the Church of St Thomas the Apostle, Kuantan.
SLIM RIVER, Perak: The Chapel of St Anthony in Slim River came alive with prayer, praise, and profound joy on June 21 as the Catholic community marked a unique triple celebration: the chapel's feast day, the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, and Father's Day.The day began with a Novena to St Anthony, the Rosary, and the Angelus at 4.30pm, drawing pilgrims and parishioners from near and far. The evening Eucharistic celebration was presided over by Fr Vincent Paul, Chapel Administrator and parish priest of the Church of the Most Holy Redeemer, Tanjung Malim.In his homily, Fr Vincent reflected on the deep spiritual significance of Corpus Christi, linking it to the Gospel account of the multiplication of the loaves and fish. 'Jesus did not just satisfy physical hunger—He stirred hearts,' said Fr Vincent. 'He invited the people to share. That's what the Eucharist is about—sacrifice, generosity, and self-giving.'Fr Vincent highlighted how Jesus' gift of the Eucharist is a call to imitate His total self-giving. 'God never keeps things for Himself,' he said. 'We're often tempted to only look after ourselves and our families. But the feast of Corpus Christi challenges that. It's about giving without holding back—just like Jesus did.'He also emphasised the unique belief of the Catholic Church in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist. 'To receive the Body and Blood of Christ requires faith and reverence. Jesus gave us this sacrament so we can remain united with Him and bring His presence to others.'Turning to the chapel's patronal feast, Fr Vincent spoke about the life of St Anthony of Padua, one of the most beloved saints in the Catholic world. 'What made him such a powerful preacher and miracle worker was his deep closeness to Jesus,' he said. 'He invites us to stay close to Christ in all things.'
Following Mass, a 35-minute solemn Eucharistic procession made its way through the streets of Slim River. Fr Vincent carried the monstrance bearing the Blessed Sacrament.
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