BE THE TONGUE AND THE LIP OF GOD TO CALL OTHERS TO HIS EMBRACE

By Julita, SOCCOM Tawau
Tawau : December marked a very meaningful month to all Catholics throughout the world. It is a special moment in relation to the history of the salvation of humankind, the incarnation and the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. The appearance of the angel to the shepherd bringing the joyous news, acclaimed that a saviour is born, the king of peace and a wonderful counselor.

A week before the commissioning, the HTC Home Caroling Committee held a one-day recollection for all carolers.  Home caroling began on 14th December and shall last for five consecutive nights. 

Carolers were commissioned by Fr. Johnny Raju, the assistant rector of HTC, during the Sunset Mass of the 3rd Sunday of Advent on 13th December. It marked the mid-point of our self preparation for the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ.
'God is a mystery. He sent Man to save humankind,' Fr. Johnny began his homily with his introductory words that touched the congregation. John the Baptist is the witness of light, 'the light of Christ'  and so we are called to be like him. As disciples of Christ, we are to light the way and lead others to Christ by proclaiming and sharing the joy and the love of God.

Addressing all carolers during the commissioning, he said 'God calls you to go and exult the joy of Christmas, the birth of Jesus to all families. Through this witnessing, they might be touched and return to God, believing in His mercy and love. Wherever and whenever we gather in the name of the Lord, He will be present in our midst. He then continued saying,  'Go  forth to share his love. May the blessing and grace of our Lord be with you always.'

After Mass all adjourned to the Parish Hall for the Caroling by Candle Light as part of the preparation for the next day home caroling. Some 800 parishioners including carolers and the BEC teams participated in the event.

The event began with an Opening Prayer followed by the Proclamation of the Gospel by Fr. Johnny Raju. He then proceeded to grace the 'lighting' ceremony symbolizing the power of light overcoming darkness of the world brought about by Christ Jesus.

The 'Nativity' presented by the Taman Semarak BEC members inspired and brought much joy to the audience. The sketch gave a deeper insight to the mystery of the birth of Jesus.

The choirs from the various BEC groups presented beautiful carols that touched everyone in attendance. When we were baptized we are called to be Disciples of Christ. We too are to be the tongue and the lip of God in proclaiming His wondrous plan of salvation to all humankind. We represent God's light, the light of peace, love and faithfulness.

This year around, there are 25 carol groups; 13 from the church and 12 from the various BECs. It is the hope of the church that the groups go forth to proclaim the Good News on the birth of our redeemer so that man will believe, will look for Him, worship Him or for those who have lapsed will came back to Him and acknowledge Him as the Son of God, the Light of the World.