By FSIC Media
KENINGAU – To mark the 80th anniversary of the passing of their founder, Msgr August Wachter, the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception (FSIC) Congregation organized a special two-day pilgrimage on Aug 22-23.
Honoring Msgr Wachter’s legacy, 88 pilgrims, comprising 44 FSIC Sisters and 44 lay people from the Kota Kinabalu Diocese, journeyed through significant sites. Their route took them from St Michael’s Church in Penampang to Holy Rosary Church in Limbahau Papar, St Anthony’s Church in Tenom, the Keningau Diocesan Retreat Center in Tatal, and the Nulu Sosopon Pilgrimage Center in Keningau.
Activities planned at each location helped pilgrims trace the life journey of the Mill Hill Missionaries, particularly Msgr Wachter and those who sacrificed their lives during the Japanese occupation (1943-1945).
During a Mass with pilgrims and the faithful, Bishop Cornelius Piong reflected on the enduring inspiration from the Missionaries’ sacrifices. He emphasized how remembering their service calls us today to persevere faithfully through difficulties and be witnesses of Christ. Focusing on Msgr Wachter’s life and testimony, pilgrims were inspired to serve more faithfully, strengthen their faith, and become witnesses of hope in today’s world, embodying the missionaries’ spirit of service.
The pilgrims expressed gratitude for the opportunity to reflect deeply on their Catholic faith journey alongside the FSIC Sisters and voiced hopes to join future FSIC programs.
Leading the pilgrimage, Sr Calista Saliun explained that this program commemorates the sacrifices of the Missionaries, especially Msgr Wachter. It also serves as preparation for celebrating the FSIC Congregation’s 90th anniversary in Sabah in 2026.
