SOP Volunteers Gathering

One of the many positive experiences which came about due to the Covid19 pandemic was the setting up of the SOP volunteers of the parish to manage the temperature scanning, Eventbrite and MySejahtera check-ins, physical distancing, etc.

Originally due to age limitations under the country’s Covid19 SOP, young volunteers from 18 years old and above were recruited to look into the safety of parishioners.  Their youthful enthusiasm and friendly approach when welcoming parishioners to mass and checking-in parishioners created an environment for parishioners to know each other better by name while balancing the need to make it safe and comfortable for parishioners who were attending masses.

Subsequently with the relaxation of the country’s SOPs, hospitality ministers, who were mostly above the age of 60, from pre-Covid days were invited to join the SOP volunteer team, further expanding the team.

On Sunday 22^nd May 2022, with the return to normalcy and further relaxation of SOP allowing physical gatherings, about 60 volunteers gathered together for some fellowship and a simple meal together.

A couple of team building games were organized by Vernon Fernandez (Chairperson of the SOP Team) to remind us that we managed to thrive amidst the adversity and challenges during the pandemic and we were able exercise flexibility, adapt and act swiftly tactfully, when handling tough situations during the height of the Movement Control Restrictions.

The success of the SOP team is that when an environment of mutual understanding and respect is present, the team, despite its rich diversity, is able to thrive.  New leadership talents had also emerged from this initiative.

After a sumptuous lunch with food aplenty, Fr Dom, our parish priest blessed all volunteers before the gathering ended with a photoshoot at our Nativity Centre. – SC