Overview

Written by Fr. Paul Dass, S.J., this book provides a meticulously researched historical and theological exploration of the Local Church in Peninsular Malaya/Malaysia. It serves as a comprehensive chronicle documenting the Church's origins—tracing them back as far as the 7th Century—and challenges the common misconception that Christianity in Asia is merely a modern byproduct of Western colonization.

The text highlights the Church’s ongoing mission of Integral Human Development, emphasizing its decades of service to the poor, marginalized, itinerants, and migrants through organizations like the Archdiocesan Office for Human Development (AOHD). 

Key Themes & Highlights

• Historical Depth: Reclaims historical roots in Peninsular Malaysia and reframes Christianity in Asia through its long-standing presence and localized history.

• FABC Framework: Incorporates the Federation of Asian Bishops' Conferences (FABC) "Triple Dialogue"—a "Triple Immersion" into Asia's vast poverty, rich cultures/heritage, and profound religious traditions.

• Social Justice & Faith: Connects faith directly to love, compassion, and social justice, reasserting a fundamental commitment to the poor and marginalized.

Endorsements

• Br. Anthony Rogers, FSC (Former FABC-OHD Executive Secretary): Praises the book as a "Local Church Chronicle" that provides a clear framework for the future founded on history, memory, and the FABC's Triple Dialogue.

• Dr. Cecilia Ng (Former AOHD Board of Management Chair): Commends Fr. Dass for dismantling misconceptions about Christianity as purely foreign and paints a vivid picture of the lived experiences at the grassroots level.

• Fr. Fabian Dicom (National Director, CARITAS MALAYSIA): Highlights the book’s ability to uncover the Christological roots of social justice, redefining how faith and compassion intersect.

• Ms. Kar Im Teo (Former AOHD Director): Calls it a "must-read" tribute documenting thirty years of service since AOHD's terms of reference were signed in 1992.

About the Author

Fr. Paul Dass, S.J. is a Jesuit priest affiliated with the Xavier Hall community at St. Francis Xavier Church (SFX) in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia. His ordained ministry has focused heavily on working alongside migrant laborers and refugees.

• Academic & Pastoral Background: Spent ten years as the Director of St. Aloysius Gonzaga Institute of Higher Studies in Taunggyi, Myanmar, and taught Sacramental and Liturgical Theology at Loyola School of Theology in the Philippines.

• Current Service: Resides at PERCH (a convalescence home for sick refugees in Batu Arang) while continuing his passion for history and literature.

Book Details

• ISBN: 978-967-26447-3-6

• Price: RM 50.00 

• Weight: 441 grams

• Pages: 318