EXCO 2009/2010 : Unity is about mutual respect, trust.

The EXCOs had their Planning Camp last weekend and Mc Dawson Dewk taking over the Society’s leadership from Timothy Jim Anthony was not about power or status but a great responsibility of the member’s expectations and aspirations which the EXCOs must shoulder. The 3 days 2 nights camp was held at CSS House. And in the past, the organisation of EPC was conducted by the past members, and the new EXCOs were just mere participants not involving in what it seems “minor activity” such as preparing the breakfast, lunch, tea break, games, praise & worship etc. This had misconstrued the new EXCO members that they are being served instead of serving. This misconception resulted that the new EXCOs might get the wrong impression on what is it all about “in serving God”. One obvious misconception in the journey of being an EXCO is that the EXCOs had overlook the verse in Gospel of Matthew that, one shall serve; and not to be serve (Mat 20:28). Therefore, EXCOs might think that being an EXCO was about purely fun and being popular, which later has the effect of damaging the status of CSS as a Catholic Students’ Society.

These were the sessions conducted; CSS UiTM: What is it all about, Leadership Role: What do I dream of CSS, Problems and Situations of Students, Envisioning the dream: Theme for 2009/2010. Thanks to Fr. Chris, Ms. Monica, Dora and Audrey in helping to improve not only as leaders but also as an individual. Remind the EXCOs that they are capable of doing things with their own creativity and not limited to the ideas of their predecessor, and to avoid the CSS UiTM traditional attitude of ‘monkey see, monkey do’, to get out of the pattern of following the old patterns without generating new ideas. Furthermore, Fr. Chris also challenged the EXCOs to step out from their comfort zone by not bowing down to the want of the majority, just because the desire to be accepted and popular or afraid of criticism and ignore the true meaning of leadership. The EXCOs of 2009/2010 must pursue the society’s Mission Statement to ensure the society’s strength in facing challenges of the future.

I also want to take this opportunity to congratulate to the EXCOs in producing a theme of their own as guidance in planning the activities for the whole year. A Vibrant Christ-centred Family, is our CSS this year’s theme, and behind these fancy words they do have aims to keep CSS UiTM’s objective in track.

I wish all the EXCOs all the best in serving and don’t forget your studies too.

Lastly, I want to touch on issue that close to my heart, that is the unity between us, EXCOs and between the members. God intends for us to experience life together, because we are created for community, fashioned for fellowship, and formed for a family, and none of us can fulfil God’s purposes by ourselves.

All the best,

Amanda Leonie

Vice President 2008/2009