PAS Makes Courtesy Call To New Penang Bishop

A delegation of about a dozen Pas representatives made a courtesy call to new Penang Diocese Bishop Sebastian Francis at his office at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit yesterday to congratulate him on his recent appointment.

The Pas delegation comprising mainly Penang Pas representatives was led by Parit Buntar MP Mujahid Yusof Rawa.

Also present were College General seminary rector Fr Gerard Theraviam and Cathedral parish priest Fr Bernard Paul.

Ustaz Soib Mohd Amin said a prayer for peace for closer Muslim-Christian relations.

Bishop Sebastian reciprocated by saying the Bapa Kami (Our Father) as a prayer for the nation. The new bishop also stressed the importance of cultivating a deep spirituality – an aspiration shared by people of other faiths – in forging closer Muslim-Christian ties.

Both sides pointed to their common Abrahamic heritage, which could serve as a foundation to promote better interreligious understanding.

The Pas delegation then presented the Bishop with a book and a specially baked ‘good luck’ cake.

Bishop Sebastian then hosted tea and refreshments for the visitors.

The meeting yesterday was initiated by Mujahid and Pas representatives, who had sent a letter to the Bishop informing him of their wish to make a courtesy call.