JOHOR BAHRU: If anyone thinks priests only gather for formal meetings and quiet retreats, the Young Priests’ Gathering (YPG) 2025 would have changed that idea. From October 6–10, fifty-one young clergy (all ordained under five years) from nine dioceses in Malaysia and one in Singapore, came together in the Malacca Johore Diocese. What unfolded over those five days was a beautiful mix of learning, laughter, heartfelt sharing, deep prayer, cultural experiences, and the warmth of parish families. It was less a conference, more a homecoming — a reminder that priesthood is, first and foremost, a brotherhood.
From the moment the priests arrived at MAJODI Centre, the air was filled with cheerful reunions and new introductions. No formal stiffness — just open smiles and easy conversations. That evening, they travelled to the Church of St Joseph, Plentong, where Bishop Richard Ng of Miri presided at the opening Mass. His homily reminded the priests that the priesthood, though sacred and demanding, should never be lived in isolation. His words set the tone beautifully: this gathering would be a space of honesty, rest, and fraternity. The night continued with a welcome dinner, where laughter and conversation came naturally — some meeting for the first time, yet already feeling like old friends.
Mental health with Dr Fabian Dass – Honest, helpful, and full of heart
On October 7, the priests welcomed Dr Fabian Dass from Regency Specialist Hospital for a session on mental health. This wasn’t a dry medical talk. Dr Fabian spoke directly to the heart — on personal well-being, the rise of mental health issues in society, and how priests can walk with people in pain. He used real statistics, relatable case studies, and practical insights from his experience working with clergy.
The Q&A session became one of the highlights of the entire gathering. The priests asked real, personal questions. Dr Fabian answered with refreshing honesty, humility, and even humour, making space for open conversation. His ability to blend compassion with light-heartedness created a safe and healing atmosphere. Many priests said, “We needed this.”
After the session, the clergy enjoyed lunch at Kerala Restaurant in Johor Bahru — famous for its authentic Malayali cuisine and owned by Cardinal Sebastian Francis’ niece. The food was rich and flavourful, and the fellowship even richer. Laughter filled the room as cultural stories and “parish tales” were shared freely.
That evening, the priests gathered at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus to celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, presided over by Bishop Bernard Paul. His homily on Mary — silent, strong, and faithful — struck a chord with many. The Mass was beautiful, calm, and deeply personal. Dinner and relaxed fellowship followed, ending the evening on a warm note.
Youth ministry with fresh eyes – Listening, not just leading
On Oct 8, the group travelled to the Church of St Louis, Kluang, where Francisco Overee and Karen Chan, from the Malacca Johore Diocese Young People Network (MJDYPN), led the second formation session. Instead of a formal lecture, it was interactive, engaging, and honest. The speakers shared insights on how young people think, what they struggle with, and how priests can accompany them in meaningful ways. Dialogue, group activities, and shared reflection helped the priests see youth ministry with fresh eyes—less about programmes, more about relationships.
After the session, Mass was celebrated in the church. It coincided with the reception of the ‘Perjalanan Salib’ , and in a deeply moving moment, the young priests themselves carried the Cross into the church together. It was a powerful symbol of shared mission — reminding them that they carry Christ’s Cross not alone, but side by side.
Hospitality in Ayer Salak – The Church at its warmest
From Kluang, the priests travelled to the Church of St Mary, Ayer Salak, Melaka, where one of the most memorable experiences awaited them. Fifteen parish families opened their homes and hearts to host the priests for two nights. It was not just accommodation — it was family life.
The priests were welcomed like sons. They sat at family dining tables, laughed with children, listened to stories from elders, and felt the warmth of genuine love. On the first evening, each host family held a prayer session in their home. Some prayed the Rosary, some requested house blessings, and a few even brought out their pets for blessings. It was simple, touching, and deeply human — faith lived in everyday life.
A Pilgrimage through Melaka – History, faith, and deep encounter
On Oct 9, the priests journeyed through Melaka as pilgrims. Their first stop was the Church of St Francis Xavier, currently under renovation. Even without walls or pews, the spirit of St Francis Xavier seemed to linger in the air. The priests paused to pray on the very ground where the great missionary once walked.
From there, they climbed St Paul’s Hill, enjoying the view over the historic city and reflecting on the roots of faith in this land. The breeze and silence at the top offered a natural moment of contemplation.
Next, they headed to the Church of St Peter, the oldest functioning Catholic church in Malaysia. There, they had a prayer session together and entered into a profound time of Eucharistic Adoration, led by Fr Lionel Thomas. The silence during adoration was deep and healing. Many priests said it was one of the most peaceful and grace-filled moments of the entire week.
In the afternoon, they visited the Portuguese Settlement, encountering a community where faith is still lived with pride and simplicity. Later, they returned to St Mary’s for the official pilgrimage Mass, followed by a joyful dinner with parishioners. Once again, the hospitality of the people touched every heart. Back at their host homes, conversations and laughter carried late into the night.
A farewell filled with joy and tears
The final morning arrived with both joy and sadness. The closing Mass was held at the Chapel of St Mary and was beautifully presided over by the youngest priest (in ordination years) — a meaningful sign of trust in the future. All the host families joined, filling the chapel with warmth and affection.
After Mass, no one rushed to leave. There were hugs, group photos, blessings, and words of thanks. Some families shed tears as they said goodbye to “their priests.” One mother said softly, “Father, our house felt different with you here. It felt blessed.” It was a farewell that felt more like family parting ways than guests leaving hosts.
The clergy also shared among themselves that the next Young Priests’ Gathering in 2026 will be hosted by the Archdiocese of Kuching, continuing this journey of fraternity and renewal in a new corner of the country.
Source: Herald Malaysia
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