Strengthening parish service
Fr Dr Clarence Devadass sharing the insights of procedural responsibilities and pastoral care.
By Amanda PumalaA Chancery Training and Formation session for parish office administrators was held at the Archdiocesan Pastoral Centre, June 21. Organised by the Chancery Office of the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur, the event brought together 48 participants from 36 parishes. The session aimed to strengthen the foundations of parish communities by affirming the vital role and service of those who manage parish administration. Fr Dr Clarence Devadass, Chancellor of the Archdiocese, led the training, offering guidance and insight into both procedural responsibilities and pastoral care. Participants explored their vocation as Parish Office Administrators — a role that demands interaction with people through phone calls, walk-ins, and emails, both locally, within the diocese, and beyond. They serve as important representatives of the Catholic Church, carrying the Church's mission forward in everyday encounters. The session featured discussions on challenges faced by priests and administrators alike. Attendees were invited to reflect on the practical struggles of managing inquiries and requests and to collaborate on solutions. Emphasis was placed on proactive empathetic service: resolving issues, guiding parishioners, and implementing positive change within the Church community. Equally significant was the opportunity for administrators to connect in person. Many participants had long worked alongside one another by phone or email, but had never met face-to-face. This formation created space for conversation and mutual understanding, strengthening collaboration across parishes. Feedback following the training was overwhelmingly positive. Joan Bernadette from Christ the Light parish described the event as 'an inspiring and supportive session.' Margaret Raj from the Church of the Good Shepherd remarked that 'it was indeed a very fruitful session.' Daisy Raj from the Church of the Holy Rosary found 'the formation was informative.'
The Chancery Training and Formation session achieved its goal: it renewed parish office administrators' sense of calling, enhanced their practical and pastoral competencies, and fostered connections that will enrich Catholic communities throughout the archdiocese.
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