Redemptorist Missionary Series (2026-2) – A Tribute to Fr Joseph Stephen CSsR & Community
In the rural town of Tanjong Rambutan, located in Ulu Kinta just outside Ipoh, Malaysia, a quiet yet compelling story of perseverance has unfolded over the decades. Closely tied to the Malaysian Redemptorist community, this story has been shaped in a particular way by the life and ministry of Fr. Joseph Stephen, C.Ss.R.
The mission began in 1972, when the Redemptorists of the Vice Province of Malaysia and Singapore were entrusted with the pastoral care of the area. What started as a simple outreach from Ipoh Gardens (OMPH Parish) gradually developed into a vibrant and enduring mission. In those early years, the Catholic community consisted largely of Tamil-speaking families—hardworking men and women, many of whom earned their living as rubber tappers or as workers in the nearby mental hospital. Despite the hardships of daily life, their faith in God remained steadfast.
At the time, there was no church building. Holy Mass was celebrated in family homes, and occasionally in a Methodist church or a Tamil school. Due to curfew restrictions, Mass often took place in the afternoon, around 3 p.m., with priests ensuring that the faithful could return home safely. These humble beginnings reflected a deep commitment shared by both the people and the missionaries.
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Driven by their faith, the community eventually built a small hut that could accommodate about twenty people. Though simple, it became their place of worship—a sacred space where heaven seemed to meet earth. As the years passed, the community continued to grow. In 1985, a chapel dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary was constructed, and later a grotto and a hall were added to serve the needs of the faithful.
The journey, however, was not without its challenges. Periods of closure and uncertainty tested the resilience of the community. Yet, through prayer, discernment, and a willingness to begin again, the people repeatedly returned to God, finding strength to carry on.
In more recent years, Fr. Joseph Stephen, C.Ss.R., has played a pivotal role in strengthening the community. Through his pastoral closeness and perseverance, he has accompanied the people in their struggles and hopes, helping them remain rooted in their faith. He has not been alone in this mission. Fr. Philip Lai, C.Ss.R., Fr. Patrick Massang, C.Ss.R., and Fr. Paul Kee, C.Ss.R., have also contributed in various ways. Support has likewise come at times from Redemptorists in Singapore and from the Province of Bangalore, India.
A significant milestone was reached on 19 April 2026, when the newly renovated chapel was completed and blessed. The blessing, carried out by Fr. Joseph Stephen and Fr. Philip Lai, marked a moment of profound thanksgiving for the entire community. This renewal was made possible through the generosity of numerous donors who supported the project.
Today, the Catholic community of Tanjong Rambutan stands as a testament to what faith and perseverance can achieve. The community has grown, opportunities for education have improved, and many families now enjoy greater stability in their lives.
This is more than the story of a place; it is the story of a people—and of the Redemptorist missionaries who chose to walk with them. And the mission continues.
Fr. Antony Charles Prabhu, C.Ss.R.
