Fortieth day memorial for Msgr Thomas held at St Joseph’s Church

The 40th day Memorial Mass for the Late Monsignor Anthony Thomas was held at the Church of St Joseph at 6.00pm on Sunday, November 5, 2017.

Packed to overflowing, a congregation of close to 1,000 faithful from far and near thronged the church and participated in the celebration which was presided over by Fr V.A. Michael, with Cardinal Anthony Soter Fernandez, Archbishop Emeritus Murphy Pakiam and 11 priests concelebrating.

In his homily, Fr V.A. spoke of the virtues of the late Msgr Thomas, describing him as a man who gave his life to the fullest to God and the Church. A humble and spiritual man, the late Msgr Thomas had tremendous love and a soft heart for the poor, the weak and the downtrodden. Fr V.A. also credited him for having played a pivotal role in inspiring a number of young men to join the priesthood.

The sound of music and hymns loved by the late Msgr Thomas, who was also an accomplished musician and composer, reverberated throughout the whole church, with the congregation singing their hearts out. Having served in St Joseph’s Church for almost 22 years of his priestly life, the late Msgr Thomas would have been so proud to hear the whole congregation sing the way they did at his Memorial Mass, just as he had always wanted them to.

Shortly before the Mass ended, a video montage was shown, highlighting his life journey.

After Mass, the congregation gathered at the Parish Community Hall to witness the rededication of the Hall as “Dewan Monsignor Anthony Thomas” in recognition of his efforts and sacrifices. The rededication was officiated by His Grace, Archbishop Julian Leow.

Immediately thereafter, dinner was served, with speeches, music and songs filling the air.

A Memorial Booklet of photographs and loving tributes to the late Msgr Anthony Thomas, was made available to all

Article reproduced from Herald Malaysia online