By Adira Galusin
KUALA LUMPUR — The Catechesis for Children and Teens (CCT), a sub-ministry under the Kuala Lumpur Archdiocesan Catechetical Ministry (KLACM), organised the first Study Day for catechists this year themed Sacrament of Reconciliation on April 18 at the Church of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The session was presented by Fr David Arulanatham, ecclesiastical assistant for KLACM.
The day started with the participants gathering for breakfast and taking the opportunity to connect with each other before the sessions started.
The first session, entitled Why is the Sacrament of Reconciliation important?, explored the significance of this sacrament in the Catholic Church. Participants were reminded that through this sacrament, one’s relationship with God is restored, allowing the faithful to experience true forgiveness and grace. This brings inner peace and healing, fosters self-awareness, reconciles individuals with the Church, and provides assurance of absolution.
The second session, How to make a ‘good’ confession?, focused on sincere preparation — both conscious and spiritual. It emphasised that confession is not merely about clearing one’s conscience, but the genuine reconciliation with God and receiving the grace to grow in holiness.
The third session, How to teach effectively about Confession?, highlighted the importance of shifting the focus from fear of punishment to the joy of encountering God’s mercy among the learners. Effective catechesis invites learners to understand confession as an experience of love rather than fear.
Through the Study Day, catechists deepened their understanding of the grace and mercy received in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. They were also reminded of the importance of experiencing a good confession personally before imparting this knowledge and encounter to children and youth.
A catechist shared that she learnt that the Sacrament of Reconciliation is a privilege that allows us to be reconciled with God and regain the grace lost through wrongful words and actions. It should not be viewed as a punishment or approached with fear, but rather as an encounter with Christ, with the priest acting in persona Christi.
Besides the three-level certification courses organised by the KLACM, two Study Days are also held each year for catechists. The Second Study Day will be on September 26. Adira Galusin (Archdiocesan Catechetical Centre)
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