Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu trains volunteers to reconnect lapsed Catholics with faith in Malaysia

An archdiocese in Malaysia has taken a proactive step in supporting Catholics who have drifted away from their faith, equipping local parish volunteers with the tools to provide compassionate guidance and encouragement.

Fr. Paul Lo, rector of Sacred Heart Cathedral in Kota Kinabalu, and Angela Yen organized an extensive training session for parish volunteers, inviting the experienced Landings team from the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur and Tony See from Bangkok to share their insights on the 10-week Paulist program.

The training saw the enthusiastic participation of 28 volunteers, who engaged deeply in discussions, faith-sharing, and role-playing activities designed to enhance their understanding of the Landings program.

This initiative aims to create a welcoming environment for returning Catholics, providing spiritual and emotional support in a non-judgmental setting.

By the session's end on November 5, nearly all attendees had pledged their commitment to support the program’s launch in January 2025.

Archbishop John Wong of Kota Kinabalu acknowledged the dedication of both trainers and volunteers, expressing his encouragement and joy at witnessing the effort to reach out to the wider Catholic community.

Landings, a reconciliation ministry established by the Paulist Fathers, extends an invitation to Catholics who have been distanced from the Church, offering them a space to rediscover their faith within small, supportive groups.

This program emphasizes a non-judgmental approach, allowing returning Catholics to explore their faith through shared stories and dialogue, which fosters a renewed connection to the Church and Christ.

Since its inception in 1989, the lay-led program has empowered parishes to become places of healing and reunion, creating a “safe place to land” for those seeking a path back to their faith.

Through Landings, active lay Catholics are trained to witness the Church’s mission of evangelization, opening their hearts to those who feel disconnected and nurturing a sacred moment of re-entry into the faith community.