World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation Celebrated in Tampin
Some 190 parishioners and friends from 22 parishes across the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur gathered at the Church of St John Marie Vianney, Tampin, on Saturday, 5 September, to celebrate the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation.
The outdoor Mass at the church grotto was celebrated by Fr. Andrew Manickam, Ecclesiastical Assistant of the KL Archdiocesan Creation Justice Ministry, and concelebrated by Fr. Albet Ariokasamy, Fr. Xavier Andrew, Fr. Edwin Peter and Fr. Anthony Robert.
In his homily, Fr. Andrew spoke about the need for ecological conversion, beginning with an awareness of ecological sin. He reflected on how nature, plants and animals can be mistreated or discarded without remorse when the consequences are not immediately felt, and spoke strongly about the seriousness of environmental destruction.
Drawing attention to the effects of climate change, including floods and the collapse of glaciers, Fr. Andrew encouraged everyone to recognise that even seemingly small actions matter — from picking up discarded plastic to planting trees.
Parish Priest Fr. Albet invited those present to explore the church grounds and spend time among its trees and plants. Many also visited the chikoo (sapodilla) tree planted at the church compound last May, while others spent time in prayer and reflection at the outdoor Stations of the Cross.
The young people added their own message through an entertaining skit encouraging greater care for creation.
As a reminder to carry that responsibility home, representatives of each of the 22 participating parishes received a potted plant for their parish.
The KL Archdiocesan Creation Justice Ministry expressed its gratitude to Fr. Albet, Fr. Anthony and the St John Marie Vianney parish community for their warm welcome and assistance, as well as to Fr. Xavier and Fr. Edwin for concelebrating the Mass and accompanying parishioners from Seremban and Port Dickson.
The gathering was a timely reminder that care for our common home begins not only with awareness, but with the choices each of us makes every day.