Kim, a vibrant and colourful soul whose love for fabric and textiles was matched by her passion for travel and devotion to music, has left us after an illness.
Kim at one of her favourite travel destinations (Bali) this year (photo by Tess tweaked by Boon Tiong)
Her creative spirit shone brightly through her work with textiles which saw the production of a book.
The book authored by Kim
An avid traveler, Kim, embarked on countless adventures, exploring new cultures and gathering inspiration for her work, as she set up homes with her late husband Michael Saunders, in various Asian cities. She cherished every journey, finding joy in discovering new places, meeting new friends, and experiencing the beauty of the world.
Her devotion and love for dogs is legendary and she will be remembered for always being the first to lend a hand and donation to those in need.
Kim’s love for music, particularly choral singing, enriched her life and the lives of those around her.
Whether performing in local choirs or sharing her love of music for God in church, her voice resonated always with passion and joy. She found solace and connection through song and hymns, and her spirit will undoubtedly echo in the hearts of those who sang alongside her.
Kim sang in the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Penang’s choir
Now, Kim is reunited with her beloved Michael, and together they continue their journey in the beyond. May their love inspire us to embrace our passions and cherish every moment.
Rest in peace, Kim. Your legacy of love, service and inspiration will be etched in all our hearts.
As the sun rises over the Church of the Immaculate Conception in Pulau Tikus, Penang today, the warm glow and blue skies will illuminate a gathering of clergy, parishioners, friends, and family—all there to celebrate a milestone : the 25th sacerdotal anniversary of Rev Monsignor Jude Miranda, (Father Jude) our parish priest.
For a quarter of a century, Father Jude has been a guiding light in all the communities he has served in the Penang Diocese – a man whose love for God, people, and the simple pleasures of life has impacted us all in profound ways.
Always armed with a friendly smile and a twinkle in his eye, he quickly warms up to those who seek his counsel.
Known for his humour, warmth, and down-to-earth nature, he has a gift for making everyone feel welcome, whether it’s during Sunday mass, a casual (or serious) chat in his office, or when visiting the home-bound.
Not many know that he is a “bread and butter” man, and relishes savouring diferent types of bread offered.
Father Jude’s interests are not limited to the altar and the bread basket alone.
He often reminisces about his youthful days spent watching *California Highway Patrol* (CHiPs), reliving the thrilling escapades of Ponch and Jon.
He appreciates the show’s blend of action, camaraderie, and moral lessons—always emphasizing the importance of integrity and service.
Our parish’s proximity to the College General seminary has blessed us with the regular presence of its rector Rev Father Simon Labrooy (who also assists in our parish) and his seminarians.
Father Simon and Father Jude
The young men who are aspiring to follow in the steps of Fathers Jude and Simon, are equally blessed to have the two padres for their lecturers and mentors as they set out to be devoted servants of God.
As we gather today to honour his 25 years of service, we as parishioners thank Father Jude for his unwavering support. From blessing new families to comforting the sick, elderly, specially-abled and those grieving. In their hardest times, his dedication has known no bounds.
Parishioners have recounted how Father Jude has helped them through life’s ebbs and flows, always reminding them that they are never alone and that “God loves you so much.”
As we join him for mass today, we honour Father Jude not just as our parish priest, but as a friend and mentor. Here’s to 25 years filled with love, laughter, music and the spirit of service.
May he continue to inspire, guide, and entertain us for many more years to come, and may he always find time to enjoy reruns of *California Highway Patrol*—because life, much like his favourite show, is an adventure worth savouring!
Happy 25th priestly anniversary, Monsignor Jude! Here’s to more bread, butter, and blessings to come.
Today, let’s celebrate the life of a remarkable person who touched each of our hearts in unique ways.
As we remember our beloved Charles Stephen Ramachandran/CharlieBoy who was not only a talented hairdresser but also a passionate yoga instructor and gifted artist (plus a mean sugee cake baker and great tailor) we reflect on the vibrant energy he brought into our world.
In his work, Charles transformed not just hair, but lives—helping people feel confident, beautiful, and truly seen. He had this gift for making others shine, for emphasizing the beauty that exists within each of us.
His artistry was not limited to the salon; it extended into every canvas he touched, leaving behind vibrant and evocative pieces that spoke to the deep emotions we all share. Each stroke of his brush echoed his spirit—expressive, colourful and undeniably full of life.
As a yoga instructor, he taught many of us the importance of mindfulness, balance, and connection. We were reminded to breathe, to find peace within ourselves, and to embrace the beauty of our own journeys.
Charles showed us that strength comes in many forms—sometimes in the quiet moments of stillness and reflection, and sometimes in the boldness of self-expression.
And perhaps most importantly, he showed us the power of love. Love for himself, love for his craft, and love for each of us. In a world that can sometimes feel divided, Charlie Boy taught us to celebrate authenticity and to live fully and unapologetically.
As we grieve his passing, let us also celebrate the joy he brought into our lives. Let us carry forward his legacy of love, creativity, and acceptance. May we remember to support one another, to uplift each other, and to embrace the diverse tapestry of life that Charles so beautifully embodied.
Today, we honour not just a life lived, but a life that inspired. May his spirit continue to guide us as we navigate our own paths.
Fly high with Aunty Margaret & Uncle Stephen, our dear son of Pulau Tikus❤️
Those growing up with Charles in Pulau Tikus remember walking through this field with him and our dear Nigel, in front of the home of their beloved Nanny JoCharles will rest in the parlour of the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Pulau Tikus in Penang from this evening until his farewell funeral mass tomorrow
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.
The Lighthouse
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.
Bele with Ed at a Lighthouse Christmas party
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.
Bele was happiest among his clients especially at Christmas time Bringing festive cheer to The Lighthouse
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.
Bele and a festive volunteer
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.
In the heart of George Town, an island rich in cultural diversity and spiritual heritage, two pipe organ recitals took place over two weekends, uniting communities through the shared language of music.
Although these recitals were held in different churches and featured the (almost) same musical repertoire, they served as a tribute to the spirit of Malaysia—an intricate tapestry woven from various backgrounds, traditions, and beliefs.
The first recital unfolded last weekend at the Anglican St. George’s Church , an architectural marvel that stands as a testament to the nation’s colonial past.
The grand organ, with its majestic pipes soaring high within the heritage church’s interior, filled the air with glorious harmonies.
The recital was attended by a diverse audience, ranging from devoted parishioners to curious music lovers eager to experience the power of the organ.
As the notes danced around the church’s ceilings, there was an undeniable sense of reverence and community.
Meanwhile, just a few kilometers away, a similar concert took place today at the Roman Catholic Church of The Assumption, which is home to the country’s oldest pipe organ.
The organ in this church, affectionately called ‘The Old Lady’ resonated with the same passion and brilliance of its neighbouring church, filling the sacred space with music that transcended boundaries.
Although the music played in both churches was almost the same—classical masterpieces and contemporary and local compositions that echoed the human experience—the backgrounds of the attendees highlighted the multicultural essence of Malaysia.
In both these spaces, people from various ethnicities and religions came together, their hearts beating in sync with the rhythm of the music.
This shared experience mirrors the greater narrative of Malaysia, a nation built upon co-existence. Just as the two recitals united different communities under the canopy of music, Malaysia thrives on a foundation of harmony, drawing from its rich tapestry of Malay, Chinese, Indian, and Indigenous cultures.
Each community contributes its own unique flavour, from the spices in its cuisine to the festivals that fill the calendar, painting a vibrant picture of unity amid diversity.
Music, particularly through the majestic pipe organ, has an incredible ability to evoke emotions and bridge gaps. The organ’s powerful sounds resonate with the soul, reminding us of our shared humanity—something both recitals amplified.
Additionally, the very act of coming together to appreciate art, serves as a reminder of the potential for collaboration and dialogue in a multi-cultural society. In a world that often highlights divisions, events like these reflect the collective aspiration of Malaysians to embrace a harmonious future.
Kudos George Town Festival 2024 for featuring these two pipe organ recitals. They have served as beautiful reminders that, despite our differences, we can find common ground through the universal language of music.
As we look forward to more such events (hopefully through dedicated efforts of the event’s curator, Leonard Selva Gurunathan), let’s continue to celebrate the rich culture that is uniquely Malaysian, a melody played on the grand organ of humanity itself.
Syabas to Matthew Arwinraj Jaya Paul, Daniel Joel De Costa, Victor Cheah Eu Jin, Jason William and Hannah Thoraisingam for uniting us all with your musical notes!
From left: Leonard, Hannah, Jason & Matthew (courtesy pix Leonard Selva Gurunathan)
For many young musicians, the pipe organ is a daunting and complex instrument. With its massive size, myriad of keys and stops, and powerful sound, it can be intimidating for even the most seasoned musician. However, for those who are willing to put in the time and effort, the pipe organ can be an incredibly rewarding and fulfilling instrument to play.
Leonard on the pipe organ at St George’s Church
Young musicians Matthew Arwinraj Jaya Paul, Jason William and Hannah Thoraisingam seem to have found a good teacher in Leonard Selva Gurunathan in helping them navigate the complexities of this intricate instrument.
A free lunchtime pipe organ recital yesterday at St George’s Church in Penang was a good show that they are on the way to becoming very proficient pipe organ players.
One of the most inspiring things about learning to play the pipe organ is the rich history and tradition that surrounds this instrument.
Matthew with proud grandmum, Rani Rajamoney
The pipe organ has been a staple of Western music for centuries, and has been used in churches, concert halls, and even in popular music.
By mastering this organ, this group of young people are well on their way to being a part of this rich tradition and carrying on a legacy that spans generations.
Leonard and Jason
The latest edition of the George Town Festival has provided an opportunity for Leonard and young pipe organists in Penang to showcase their talent and inspire audiences from all walks of life with their passion for music.
If you happen to be a young pipe organist or nursing aspirations to be one (regardless of age!) there is still one more free recital during this annual arts festival to enjoy and be further inspired by.
See you next Saturday (July 27) at 1pm in the Church of the Assumption along Lebuh Farquhar.
Church of the Assumption
This heritage Roman Catholic church, is home to the country’s oldest pipe organ, where its resident organist and fierce custodian of the instrument, is Leonard.
Join him and his pipe organists as they take you on a (keyboard) journey of Malaysian music and those from around the world, as they try and inspire more people in Penang and elsewhere to make a home for and support the upkeep of pipe organs, while placing Malaysian talents on the world map of pipe organs.
A chapter is dedicated to Sybil in the book “Agent of Change – Essays on the life and times of Archbishop Emeritus Tan Sri Murphy Pakiam”
Malaysia has a candidate for sainthood. While many claim they have no clue of who Sybil Medan Kathigasu is, others have brief recollections of her in their History textbooks.
Sybil is also the only Malayan woman to receive the British Crown’s George Medal for covertly supplying medicine, medical services and refuge to resistance fighters from her home (a shophouse in Papan, Perak) for years during World War II.
The shophouse in Papan, Perak where Sybil worked and lived.
Her legacy is also found in Roman Catholic cathecism books, a movie (Sybil Kathigasu – Apa Dosa Ku), a book she penned “No Dram of Mercy”, while a chapter is dedicated to her in a new book, “Agent of Change – Essays on the life and times of Archbishop Emeritus Tan Sri Murphy Pakiam.”
(The former archbishop who grew up in Batu Gajah, Perak where Sybil was incarcerated during the war, had a strong desire for her to become Malaysia’s first saint, because of his growing years and stories of her faith and courage which were relayed by family and friends.)
“Apart from my dad serving her medically while she was in prison, I feel strongly that Sybil should be made a saint as she has served as a faithful person who sacrificed so many things for the church’s sake and the community around her at the time can attest to it,” Archbishop Emeritus Murphy says in “Agent of Change.”
“Why I chose Sybil,” says Cardinal Sebastian Francis in the book , “is because she is a woman, a lay person (and not a cleric), a wife and mother and also a professional.”
“For the Catholic church,” notes Sebastian, who is also Bishop of Penang, “we are unique and are not taken up by stories of courage.”
“We (the Penang Diocese) have commenced with the collection of data and initial steps for the process of canonisation of (a saint from our soil).
“It is pretty obvious from the initial data that I have received and other sources of information that Sybil was a courageous freedom fighting heroine and we are reasonably convinced that we should proceed with (her canonization).”
His Eminence Cardinal Datuk Seri Sebastian Francis (left) is calling for Sybil’s beatification and canonisation
A movie titled “Sybil” is also reportedly in the making, while an opera “Solace of Papan” is set to open in Selangor this month.
The road to sainthood is a long, complex and expensive one and all help is needed in crafting a memorable and meaningful “brand” for potential candidates.
What qualities and characteristics do or did our potential saint embody? How can we best represent Sybil’s life and achievements through branding?
Malaysia’s oldest pipe organ is found at the Church of the Assumption on Lebuh Farquhar
On an island known for its richness in cultural and architectural heritage, music also plays an enriching role for its residents and visitors.
George Town’s Streets of Harmony (straddling Lebuh Farquhar and Jalan Masjid Kapitan Keling), has been home to magnificent and heritage-rich houses of worship for centuries.
A brisk or relaxing stroll beginning from the Church of the Assumption (whose grounds also houses a Roman Catholic museum), onto St George’s Church, Goddess of Mercy Temple, Sri Mariamman Temple and ending at the Kapitan Keling Mosque, tells a tale of how multi religions can co-exist in harmony.
Penang island has also the distinction of being home to two majestic pipe organs found in two heritage churches on the same street in the Unesco heritage core zone!
Southeast Asia’s oldest Anglican church – St George’s Church in Penang – in 2017, received a bicentennial blessing in the form of a 1,050-pipe Mander organ.
It then joined the ranks of its “neighbour” – the Church of the Assumption in hosting its very own pipe organ.
Southeast Asia’s oldest Anglican Church, St George’s
Erected in 1914 and assembled in Penang by 1916, the Assumption Church’s pipe organ was restored in 2013, and carries the pride of being Malaysia’s oldest pipe organ.
As the annual George Town Festival returns to the island next month, a special music treat awaits pipe organ buffs.
Timeless classics by sons of Penang like Tan Sri P.Ramlee, Jimmy Boyle, Edwin Rajamoney and Tan Sri Ahmad Merican are among the tunes that will fill the air, as both heritage churches host lunchtime organ recitals on July 20 and July 27 respectively.
“I am excited to feature the organists of both churches at this innaugral event featuring the two lovely pipe organs in Penang,” says Leonard Selva Gurunathan, who is the resident pipe organist at the Church of the Assumption.
Gurunathan will also be playing some of his original pieces (inspired during the pandemic when he used to chase sunrises).
Young and upcoming Malaysian pipe organists like Matthew Arwinraj Jaya Paul are among the performers who will be infusing a new twist to P.Ramlee songs like “Hujan di Tengah Hari.”
He is also set to share a heartfelt piece “Lay Thine Hands” composed by his late grandfather, Edwin Rajamoney.
Matthew Arwinraj Jaya PaulPenang’s Church of the Assumption will play host to one of the pipe organ recitals during the 2024 George Town Festival
Here’s a sneak peek of what to expect during the concerts, kindly presented by Leonard and Matthew …
As the Advent season has drawn to a close, it is time to bid farewell to the beautiful Christmas crib that has been the centerpiece of our celebrations. This beloved tradition holds a special place in the hearts of many, as it reminds us of the sacredness and wonder of the Nativity.
The Christmas crib, also known as a nativity scene or manger scene, depicts the humble birth of Jesus Christ in a stable in Bethlehem. It typically includes figurines of the baby Jesus, Mary and Joseph, the shepherds, the Three Wise Men (Caspar, Melchior, and Balthasar) and various animals. The crib serves as a visual representation of the biblical story and invites us to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas.
A scene from the manger recreated at the Church of the Immaculate Conception, Penang
Throughout the Advent season, the crib has been a focal point of prayer and reflection, bringing us closer to the spirit of anticipation and hope. As we gathered around the crib, we were reminded of the immense love that God has for us, as he sent His only Son to redeem and save us.
Teacher and musician Leonard Selva Gurunathan generously shares the meaning of all things Christmas to him in this heartfelt video. His take on the meaning of family at Christmas, the spirit of the season embraced by Roman Catholics like him and his family with anticipation, and lovely anecdotes focussing on miniature photography, the pipe organ and Christmas carols, give a completely different spin to the loud and often obnoxious and over-the-top festive tones we embrace as we blindly take in all that is commercial and showy about the humble birth of Jesus Christ, and what the true gift of Christmas should mean for those who consider it a religious celebration.
So as we close the Advent season and bid farewell to the Christmas crib, let us carry the spirit of joy, love, and hope with us throughout the year. And may the story of the miraculous birth of Jesus Christ continue to inspire and guide us in all that we do.
Photography by BoonTiong
(video courtesy of Leonard Selva Gurunathan with scenes from his Mount Erskine family home and the Church of the Assumption, Penang, home to the country’s oldest pipe organ)
A decade ago, Penang-born Tiffany Choong began sketching daily in her art journal, as part of her Happiness Project.
The self-taught artist discovered the joys of sketching through her global travels, which in turn it is said, gives her “a sense of purpose that fuels her soul.”
Just in time for Christmas, Tiffany presents EVERYDAY PENANGThe Art of Joy.
She delivers playful pen and ink sketches, having drawn inspiration from simple objects she takes in daily.
Each sketch takes the reader not only into the “inner Penang” through the eyes of the artist, but is also paired with little pick-me-up quotes and words of wisdom along the way.
The visual treats found on every page of the compact book, is one which will spark joy with Penang residents and Penangites-at-heart, thanks to boutique publisher Clarity Publishing, who has connected Tiffany’s hometown and heritage with themes of love, loss and identity, including traditions and rituals.
As we wind up 2023 with an attitude of gratitude, the book serves as a gentle and colourful reminder to ourselves that “the simple joys of life will always shine through, if we let them.”
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