DHDC Members Attend Study and Formation Session

BY DS

Front row (L-R) : Mulin, Shirley, Francis Tan, Petrus, Francis Kamuntah, Kletus

Standing (L-R) : Stella, Hildi, Cladius, Gabriel, Rayner and Rachel

Lahad Datu : The Diocesan Human Development Commission formed on 18th January 2014 held its 2nd meeting, study and formation session on 6th and 7th December at St Dominic's Church, Lahad Datu. 12 members from the 4 parishes and the diocesan pastoral office attended the event.

Francis Tan in the absence of Sr Maria Dipal rgs, the Chairperson of the commission tabled the proposed year-long program for the year 2015. It encompasses the Catholic Social Teaching, AMOS - Migration Awareness, Leadership and Team Building, Facilitation Training Session and Lenten Campaign. The target groups would be the BEC and Commission members of the four parishes.

The Diocesan World Day for Migrants and Refugees themed 'Towards a Better World' was celebrated on 28th September at Holy Trinity Church, Tawau. The celebration has promoted the church as a welcoming church, extending her arms to all people, accepting everyone without distinction. The host for the next celebration, themed 'Church without frontiers, Mother to all' will be announced early next year.

The study and formation session on 7th December, focused on the Joy of the Gospel : the 7 challenges from Pope Francis. Two challenges were discussed at length ; Let us not allow ourselves to be robbed of missionary enthusiasm (# 80) and Let us not allow ourselves be robbed of the joy of evangelization (# 83)

The first slot, 'Let us not allow ourselves to be robbed of missionary enthusiasm' was facilitated by Francis Tan while the second slot, 'Let us not allow ourselves to be robbed of the joy of evangelization' by Shirley Joseph Dipal, the Secretary of the Commission. The rest of the challenges shall be discussed in stages in future meetings.