May 17, 2025 · Pope Francis’ Jubilee Year of Hope comes with the invitation to journey as Pilgrims of Hope. Meanwhile, Cardinal Sebastian Francis had declared 3 designated Pilgrim Churches in the Diocese of Penang and encouraged all to begin their pilgrimage with renewal and reconciliation, journeying together with the entire Catholic Church, as one Body of Christ in a shared journey of faith. And to be prepared for the Holy Spirit to surprise us on this pilgrimage!

On this beautiful Saturday, the St Joseph’s Home children, several board members, staff and volunteers headed by bus to the Church of the Assumption, Georgetown, Penang where Fr. Ryan Innas Muthu celebrated the morning mass, animated by the children. The first reading touches on “the whole city gathered to hear the word of God” (Acts 13:44) and ended with “the disciples were filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 13:52). After mass, there was a sharing about the church overview, followed by the consecration prayer to Mother Mary, lighting of candles and writing petitions to Mother Mary. 

Next, our journey continued to Church of the Holy Name of Mary, Permatang Tinggi, Penang. In the bus, the children were given buns and snack packs specially prepared for them by well wishers. Upon arrival, we were welcomed by the parishioners and given an overview of the church. As the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament was in the new church, all the children quietly went in to pray in silence and left reverently.

As we headed to the Chapel of Annai Vellaganny (Our Lady of Good Health), Jelapang, Ipoh, Perak, the children sang “If you are happy and you know it” before resting. Here at the Chapel, we were greeted by many parishioners and were served lunch and baked muffins donated by the community. Before eating, the children said grace and thanked all who prepared lunch for us. After lunch, the PPC Chair gave us the Chapel overview. Following that, the children led the recitation of the rosary on the Joyful Mystery. Many, including the children, wrote petitions to Our Lady of Good Health. 

Finally, it was time to go back to Penang Island. The children were very well-behaved throughout the pilgrimage as testified by our bus driver, and by the parishioners welcoming us to their parishes. As we end the day, we thank all kind donors, parishioners, and volunteers who have made this pilgrimage possible for the Home.

St Joseph’s Home children’s pilgrimage to the designated Pilgrim Churches was a spiritual experience where the children heard the word of God, prayed the Rosary, filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. And we are reminded that as we journey through our pilgrimage and life, we need to keep our eyes focused on Jesus.

On 23rd March 2025, our home was blessed with the visit of Canossian Mother General, Sr. Sandra Maggiolo who came to Penang for a meeting with Bishop Sebastian, Fr Joachim, Friar Esmond and Sr Roslind. During her visit, she spends time with the children and later presented the children with gifts. 

On 21st February 2025, Japanese youths from the 21st Youth International Exchange Program by the Children's Division of the East Social Welfare Council came to St Joseph's Home. During their visit, they performed and had fun with the children. Overall, they had a wonderful experience and time with the children.