Valletta: “God is not just an idol, but a person like us,” stated Sam Thomas Alex, an Indian and one of seven testimonies organized by the Archdiocese of Malta.

The program aimed at people from different countries, cultures, and languages, expressing their Catholic faith and their experience of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

Sam comes from the southern Indian state of Kerala. He is currently working as a nurse at St Martin’s College, after coming to Malta in 2018. He recalled how he was taught about Malta in his catechism classes in the letter talking about St Paul`s shipwreck.

During his nursing studies, Sam became a member of Jesus Youth, a Christian youth movement. He recalled how from that point, he realized that God is not just an idol or a statue, but a person like himself. Sam believes that rather than praying, we should aim at building a personal relationship with God.

When he started building a personal relationship, Sam realized the power of the Holy Spirit. Sam reiterated that he believes he is responsible to spread the Word of God to his friends, not through words, but through his life.

Sam mentioned how when he got the opportunity to work in Malta, he believed it would be a wonderful experience, as, in every sector of his life, Malta is considered as a holy land. He added how it was very surprising to see churches on every corner.

“We have a wonderful Indian Catholic community, called St Thomas Syro-Malabar Church in Malta,” Sam said, adding that there are around 1,400 people. They usually organize three Masses on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays. The location varies by week.

“The cooperation care and love of the church to our community are commendable, especially Father Vince Micallef and Sister Letizia.” They organize many programs, both indoor and outdoor (prior to the pandemic), including rosary procession, Christmas programs, and a retreat for around 1000 people.

Sam recalled an incident where a 9-year-old girl came to his clinic. She had a severe headache and could not concentrate in class. Surprisingly, while waiting for her mother, the girl opened her bag, and took out her personal purse, got out a rosary bead and started praying in front of him.

At that moment, Sam thanked God for providing her parents, since the family is the starting point to every personal life.

Source: newsbook.com.mt