“Welcome pilgrims of hope” a soft voice whispers as we approach the Church Of The Divine Mercy. This church stands as a testament to faith and community in George Town Penang. It is a beacon for Catholics residing in the Bayan Lepas area. The Church Of The Divine Mercy also serves Catholic staff from the Penang International Airport and nearby factories.
The story of the Church Of The Divine Mercy began with a generous donation. In 1989 H. R. Watts a parishioner of the Holy Spirit Cathedral donated land. He envisioned a Christian Community Centre promoting ecumenism. His wishes paved the way for this sacred space.
Years later in 2002 Msgr Stephen Liew formed a building committee. The site plan was submitted in 2004 and the building plan in May 2005. In November 2004 parishioners chose the name Divine Mercy. Thus the Church Of The Divine Mercy was officially launched in July 2005.
The construction of the Church Of The Divine Mercy and Christian Community Centre cost RM 8000000. The community rallied together through fundraising. They organized lucky draws food carnivals grand dinners and coffee mornings. Their efforts reflected their commitment to this house of worship.
On November 28 2007 the groundbreaking ceremony took place. Bishop Antony Selvanayagam and former parish priests attended. The topping-up ceremony followed on March 15 2010 marking significant milestones.
Finally in July 2010 the Church Of The Divine Mercy was completed. It was the first church built in 41 years. Masses began on August 22 2010. Bishop Antony Selvanayagam officiated the opening on September 29 2010. About 1500 Catholics celebrated this joyous occasion.
On its third anniversary September 29 2013 the Church Of The Divine Mercy achieved parish status. Fr. Martin Arlando became its first parish priest. His leadership guides the community in faith and service.
In 2015 the Church Of The Divine Mercy erected a baptismal pool and a reliquarium. The reliquarium houses relics of saints Faustina Kowalska and John Paul II. The Church Of The Divine Mercy is the first church in Malaysia to obtain the relic of John Paul II.
Today the Church Of The Divine Mercy accommodates about 2500 Catholics. Its capacity seats 900 parishioners. The Christian Community Centre includes a hall meeting rooms and residences for priests.
The Church of the Divine Mercy was one of the five designated pilgrim Churches in the Archdiocese of Kuala Lumpur for the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy. Catholics from far and near came and passed through its Holy Door. Pilgrims received a ‘Pilgrim Certificate’ signed by parish priest, Fr Simon Labrooy.
As we stand here remember the vision of the Church Of The Divine Mercy. It strives to be an inclusive community. Sharing Christ’s love and mercy with all God’s creation. It inspires passion for sacraments liturgy and devotions. The Church Of The Divine Mercy builds bridges through dialogue. It dedicates service to the last the lost the least and the little molding stewards of creation.