A Catechetical Formation on ANGELS & DEMONS in TAIPING

Deacon Charles Lazaroo, head of the Penang Diocese H&D Ministry, then spoke on the Church’s teaching about angels and demons. Drawing from the Nicene Creed, he explained that angels are spiritual beings created by God to serve Him and assist humanity in the journey toward salvation. The session also reflected on the role of guardian angels and the reality of demons, who were created good but chose to fall through their own free will.

In the second session, Glenn Andrews from the H&D Ministry explored how the devil operates in the modern world. He explained that while possession is rare, individuals may experience other extraordinary forms of spiritual disturbance such as obsession or oppression when engaging in the occult or remaining in serious sin. More commonly, people experience the ordinary workings of the devil through daily temptations, distractions and doubts that slowly draw people away from God. Participants were encouraged to remain vigilant and rooted in prayer, particularly in today’s Digital Age where various influences can shape beliefs and behaviour.

Arokiadass Anthonysamy, also from H&D, then spoke on Steps to Freedom in Christ, reminding participants that through Baptism, every Christian shares in Christ’s victory over sin and evil. He emphasised the importance of repentance, forgiveness, and inner healing, as well as the central role of the Sacrament of Reconciliation and the Eucharist in living a life of freedom in Christ.

The formation concluded with a catechesis by Deacon Clement Samuel, Head of PDCC, on The Armour of God (Ephesians 6:10-20), encouraging participants to live lives rooted in virtue, prayer, and the Word of God. He emphasized that the Word of God is not merely a defence, but a way of life grounded in prayer, Scripture and disciplined virtue. Catechists are first called to live this reality through fidelity to the sacraments and awareness of their own spiritual weaknesses. While spiritual struggle is real, participants were reminded that Christ’s victory is greater, and they are called to guide others with confidence in grace rather than fear.

Participants shared that the formation helped deepen their awareness of spiritual realities and the need to remain steadfast in faith. Riya, an RCIA candidate from Taiping Catholic Church, said, “I learned many new teachings about angels and how demons work. Now that I understand better, I believe I can overcome these struggles.”

Andrea, an EC from the Church of the Divine Mercy in Penang, also reflected on her experience. “I now have a deeper understanding about the hierarchy of angels. At the same time, learning about demons has helped me reflect more deeply on my own spiritual life,” she said.

Feedback from participants described the sessions as informative and insightful, with many noting that the sessions helped them better understand how spiritual struggles can take place in everyday life. Several participants also expressed the importance of sharing this knowledge with family members and younger generations so that they may grow in awareness and faith.

The event concluded with a time of healing prayer and ministering, providing participants with an opportunity for spiritual renewal and encouragement in their walk with Christ.