In a world often consumed by the fast pace of life and the blur of trends, there arose an extraordinary individual whose compassion shone brightly amidst the chaos.

Bele Joseph was the driving force behind Lighthouse Feeding Centre, a beacon of hope for the poor and needy. Founded in March 2003 by Fr. Fabian Dicom, the center flourished under Bele’s dedicated leadership.

From a humble beginning with six clients, Lighthouse has grown to serve 120 today, transforming countless lives.

Long before the concept of community kitchens became a fashionable cause, the church had the foresight and dedication to address a fundamental human need: the sanctity of nourishment, dignity, and care for the less fortunate.

With an unwavering commitment to those in need, Bele and his team turned the soup kitchen into a beacon of hope for the community, right in the heart of George Town, Penang.

The Lighthouse (situated on the grounds of the Church of St Francis Xavier on Penang Road), was not merely a place to serve meals; it was a sanctuary where individuals were treated with respect and kindness.

From the onset, the team understood that hunger is just one aspect of hardship. They recognized that true support goes beyond a warm bowl of soup or rice, vegetables and curry … it includes the human experience of comfort, cleanliness, and care.

With a heart as vast as the mission they pursued, Bele and team integrated services that were revolutionary for their time: shower facilities that restored cleanliness and dignity, and clean clothes that symbolized hope and respect. In doing so, they transformed the simple act of providing food into a multifaceted approach to uplift the lives of the vulnerable. They gave people not just nourishment for the body, but also nourishment for the soul—a chance to reclaim their dignity and feel human again.

The team laboured long hours, often behind the scenes, forging connections with those in need, learning their stories, and fighting fiercely against the stigma that marginalized them.

Their influence extended beyond the kitchen; they inspired a movement, rallying volunteers and community members to join in this essential cause, cultivating a spirit of generosity and shared responsibility.

As we reflect on Bele’s legacy, we realize that the vision of The Lighthouse – “A Place of Hope” – a Community Service Centre by Caritas Penang (formerly known as Penang Office For Human Development or POHD), the social arm of the Penang Diocese, has transcended mere service.

The team, headed by Bele until his illness in recent years, taught us the true meaning of community.

They have shown us that every individual, regardless of their circumstances, deserves warmth, dignity, and opportunity. They have challenged us to look beyond the superficial and recognize the humanity in each person who walked through the doors of a soup kitchen.

Today, as we honour Bele and accompany him on his final journey, let us carry forward the mission, and serve with the same kindness, offer help with the same passion, and advocate for those in need just as Bele and his team did.

His spirit lives on in every meal served, every weary soul comforted, and every act of kindness extended to those who need it most.

To the one who helped open our eyes and our hearts, we say thank you.

May we continue to be inspired by your compassion and commitment to a world where no one is left behind.

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