LIKAS: The St Simon Catholic Church Likas community celebrated the Malaysia Day Mass on Sept 13 to commemorate the formation of Malaysia on Sept 16, 1963.
Led by Fr Matheus Luta, the Mass was celebrated in the country’s official language – Malay.
In his sermon, Fr Matheus said church and politics should not mix, as he reflected on the Gospel reading for the occasion: “Then Jesus said to them, ‘Give back to Caesar what is Caesar’s and to God what is God’s.’ And they were amazed at him.” (Mark 12:17)
Fr Matheus also urged the parishioners to continue to pray for the country’s peace and tolerance, especially among the multiracial and multi-religious community.
After the final blessing, the congregation left the parish hall (Mass was celebrated in the hall due to renovation works in the main church) and the wardens distributed miniature flags for the flag-raising ceremony near the church entrance.
The haze did not deter the congregation from participating in the outdoor event.
The choir then led in the singing for State and National anthems, “Sabah Tanah AirKu” and “NegaraKu”, respectively.
St Simon Catholic Church Likas 