RAWANG — This Lent, the youth of the Church of St Jude, Rawang embarked on a pilgrimage that was as much about the journey within as it was about the roads they travelled. It was a time to grow closer to God, deepen their faith, and discover more about themselves through prayer, reflection, and community.
Though the journey ahead was long, excitement filled the air. Amidst the fatigue of travel, a strong spirit of unity and enthusiasm carried them forward, as they encouraged and supported one another every step of the way.
The first stop was at the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception at Sungai Batu, Kedah. Before arriving, they were told to reflect on a powerful question: “Who is Mother Mary to me?” Uncle Francis, who oversees the chapel, shared inspiring stories of miracles and testimonies that touched their hearts. Praying the rosary together as one family became a moment of true connection for them. Some of them carried unresolved questions, others carried burdens, but all of them lifted them up in prayer. One participant shared a deeply personal experience, expressing how strongly they felt Mother Mary’s presence during the communal prayer.
The journey continued to the Church of the Assumption in Georgetown, where the youths were captivated by the majestic pipe organ, a symbol of the Church’s rich heritage. In the quiet stillness of the sacred space, they spent time in personal prayer, reflecting on their intentions and the journey thus far. They left with lighter hearts, renewed in spirit.
At the Minor Basilica of St Anne in Bukit Mertajam, where they stayed overnight, the pilgrimage took on a more intimate and reflective tone. A highlight of the evening was a session called “Real Talk Box.” What began as a simple activity quickly became a moment of honest sharing and spiritual depth. The questions invited them to confront their struggles, reflect on their relationship with God, and recognise how they were growing in faith. In opening up to one another, they discovered a powerful truth — that no one walks this journey alone.
The evening concluded with a lively jamming session filled with music, laughter, and fellowship — a joyful reminder that faith is not only lived in silence and prayer, but also in community and shared moments of joy.
The following day, the youths gathered for Mass at St Anne’s, a fitting culmination of their time there. On their return journey, they made a final stop at the Church of St Michael, Ipoh, for one last moment of prayer and reflection, bringing their pilgrimage to a peaceful close.
Throughout the pilgrimage, many experienced a deep sense of Mother Mary’s presence and came to appreciate the strength of walking together in faith. They returned not only spiritually renewed, but also more closely bonded as a community. This journey reminded them that faith is stronger when shared, and the memories we made will stay with them for a long time.
