Malaysia is a majority Muslim country in Southeast Asia with a significant Christian minority that makes up around 9% of the population. However, according to the Catholic Church in Malaysia, the Gospel attracts more and more young people and adults alike. This year at Easter Vigil, the church expects the baptism of more than 2000 new believers across the country. The newly baptized are approximately equal in the peninsula part of Malaysia and on Borneo Island.

During Lent, Catholic communities all over the country celebrated the “Rite of Election,” a liturgical act during which the catechumens are accepted into the Catholic Church.

Archbishop Julian Leow of the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur addressed the 549 new catechumens during the rite in the Church of the Holy Family, in Kajang.

“All of us have been ‘elected,’ chosen by God to be part of His People.”

In a similar manner, Bishop Bernard Paul in the Diocese of Malacca-Johore, in the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, addressed the 281 catechumens gathered for the rite. He encouraged them

“to listen attentively to the voice of God, and not to be distracted. His voice is gentle, welcoming, and encouraging. God’s dream is that we are united to Him, that we are one in Him, as one people.”

In the Diocese of Penang, 217 catechumens participated in the Rite of Election at St. Michael’s Church in Ipoh.

In Malaysian Borneo, the island part of the country, 1125 catechumens participated in the rite and will be baptized at Easter. Archbishop John Wong welcomed the faithful and stated that they are ready to receive baptism, communion, and confirmation, the first three sacraments.

Source: Agenzia Fides