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Herald Malaysia

St Ignatius parish celebrates the joy of family love

The Church of St Ignatius (SIC) came alive with the spirit of unity and celebration for Family Month in May themed Family is a Community of Love. Jun 20, 2025 Performance by the catechism children PETALING JAYA: The Church of St Ignatius (SIC) came alive with the spirit of unity and celebration for Family Month in May themed Family is a Community of month-long celebration was a collaborative effort by various parish groups — the English and Mandarin Family Life, Catechetical, Youth Ministries, BECCOT, Bethany Counselling, and the Formation Team — reflecting the strength of faith in festivities kicked off with the launch of five core family values: enhancing communication; promoting harmony and reconciliation; deepening faith life; building connections and nurturing mutual respect; and cultivating strong family values. These messages, beautifully captured in printed quotes, were displayed at the Community Centre. Featured were reflections from Pope Francis, Pope Benedict XVI, Pope St John Paul II, St Teresa of Calcutta, Cardinal Celso Costantini (founder of the CDD), and several well-known public Saturday in May brought something special. On May 3, families attended insightful talks: Strengthening Family Communication by play therapist Juliana Tang (English) and Communication Detective by licensed counsellor Lily Wong Lai Fang (Mandarin). Through role plays, film clips, and interactive activities, families gained practical tools to communicate more May 10, Fr Philip Chua and Fr Stephen Ng, CDD led sessions in English and Mandarin respectively on The Joy of Love in the Family, focusing on family spirituality. Parishioners bonded over shared tea breaks, deepening the sense of of the most anticipated events was the Family Fun Day in FRIM on May 17. Held at the lush Kepong forest reserve, it drew nearly 200 parishioners. Laughter and cheer echoed through the trees as families joined in Jazzercise with Janet Ginibun and team, explored nature on a guided walk, and competed in lively 'back-to-school' telematches. Many brought their own picnic mats and tucked into delicious meals while enjoying one another's company. Even toddlers had their own special corner filled with soap bubbles and activities. Parish priest, Fr Thomas Koo, CDD and assistant parish priest Fr Martin Then, CDD, joined the fun, much to the delight of participants.'Keep it up! Kudos for putting so much heart into bringing joy to all, especially seniors and kids,' shared one grateful parent. 'It was a fantastic outing!'The month culminated in a vibrant indoor carnival, FamFest! Food, Fun, Fiesta, held on May 31 at the parish Community Centre. The day brimmed with energy — food and craft stalls, game booths, open mic sessions, and performances by the English, Mandarin-, Bahasa-, and Tamil-speaking communities. Catechism children came dressed in Laudato Si' inspired costumes crafted from recycled Youth Ministry put on an entertaining show with cultural dances, wushu demonstrations, songs, and band performances. Parishioners joined in spontaneous dancing, led by Fr Thomas himself, filling the hall with warmth and joy. The event closed with full hearts, new friendships, happy tummies, and arms full of the month, families deepened their communication, discovered joy in family love, engaged in friendly competition, and prayed together — especially the Rosary — for the sanctification of families. The Family Month concluded with a sunset Mass, a fitting end to a meaningful and memorable celebration. In his closing remarks, Fr Thomas shared, 'We give thanks to God for all the blessings He has bestowed on us this Family Month. Let us carry on as families filled with love for one another.' SIC Family Life Ministry