Eucharist, symbol of hope in our lives

By Patrick Gerard Au
The Church of St Anthony began the new liturgical year on Dec 3 by celebrating the Sacrament of the Eucharist for 11 children.

At the beginning of the Mass, parish priest Fr Francis Xavier lit the first of the five candles that are placed in the Advent wreath. Three of the candles are purple, one candle is pink and the last is white. The first purple candle symbolises Hope, the second Peace, the third pink candle means Joy, the last candle is Love. The white candle in the middle of the wreath signifies Jesus Christ, the only person who can bring hope, peace, joy and love to the world.

The 11 candidates who received Holy Communion for the first time symbolise God bringing HOPE into their lives.

The theme of the homily by Bishop Sebastian was Protect Humankind From Destruction. He asked everyone to be awake and ready for the Second Coming of Christ. He said that we should also be awake and aware of the dangers of the current climate changes. We must protect Nature in order for nature to protect us. Bishop Sebastian said that the floods and landslides in Malaysia and other parts of the world are due to the indifference of the people. Rivers are polluted by toxic waste and used as rubbish dumps. Hills are being cut down and trees are felled for development. This is not what Christ wants from us. He gives the best to us and we do not cherish what God has created. Thus, we need to do something before it is too late.

Article reproduced from Herald Malaysia online