Letter to the People of God – Diocese of Melaka-Johor in View of the Coming Merdeka Day [Urgent Prayer Needed for Malaysia]
LETTER TO THE PEOPLE OF GOD – DIOCESE OF MELAKA-JOHOR IN VIEW OF THE COMING MERDEKA DAY [URGENT PRAYER NEEDED FOR MALAYSIA.]
Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,
As Christians, we cannot stand by the road side and watch things go by. We are in an unprecedented moment in our Malaysian history where all forms of decency, respect, integrity, honesty and transparency have all been pushed aside.
What prevails is unaccountability, falsehood and fear that is being promoted. Corruption and disrespect for the Federal Constitution are being trampled upon by people who are in leadership in our government. We are sliding down the slope of morality and and not acting according to principles that our country has been upholding.
As Malaysian Christians, we have to respond.
Firstly, let us all pray daily for our country. We can come together as communities e.g., BEC, Prayer Meetings, Rosary Devotion totally dedicated to Malaysia, etc. I would strongly recommend we organize a gathering of all language groups on our National Day August 31st. Have a special mass, or Adoration of Blessed Sacrament, etc. Make our National Day a day of prayer and fasting.
Secondly, we must be aware of our rights as concerned citizens of this country. No one must doubt our total loyalty and love for King and Country. Organize awareness talks and forums with political leaders of all colours, or with NGOs (non-government organizations) who are active in helping our society to be more integrated and who promote unity and nation building.
Thirdly, let us all be prudent in words and actions. Let us always have the mind of Christ. Our response is always to give our love and friendship, to give blessings and to be agents of unity.
Let us never forget that God is in control and He knows all, the most hidden things. Let us stand up for justice and truth, reconciliation and peace, knowing that God is with us. We stand on the promises of God.
Yours in Christ,
+ Rt Rev Paul Tan Chee Ing, SJ
4th August 2015