The Malaysia Pastoral Convention 2026 (MPC 2026) opened in Sibu on 9 September with Holy Mass and the Veneration of the Cross.
A significant moment of the evening came when the nine crosses that had journeyed through the various dioceses over the past 18 months were brought together to form one large Cross.
Heavy rain began just as Mass was about to start, but it did little to dampen the spirit of those gathered. Delegates sheltered beneath umbrellas, drew closer to the altar and continued to participate enthusiastically in the celebration.
In his reflection, Archbishop Simon Poh spoke of how the Cross stands amid trials, pain and suffering. He reminded those gathered that we too are called to accept our crosses and remain close to Christ.
After months of preparation and the journey of the Cross through the dioceses, the opening celebration marked the beginning of the days ahead at MPC 2026.
We pray that the Holy Spirit will guide all the bishops, clergy, religious and lay delegates, and that their prayer, reflection and deliberations will bear fruit for the life and mission of the Church in Malaysia.
Report from Sibu: Marilyn Simon, OLF
