By Dominic G. Joseph
TERAWI – Parents, undergraduates, and first-year university and college students attended a talk titled Back to School: University Edition, organised by the Parish Youth Ministry Team in collaboration with the Parish Education Committee of the Holy Nativity Church, Terawi. This engaging and thought-provoking session focused on the importance of remaining steadfast in the Catholic faith during the transition to university life.
Held on July 13, the talk aimed to inspire reflection among new students and highlight the vital role parents play in nurturing a deeper understanding of the faith. The session began with ice-breakers and a time of praise and worship, led by the Parish Youth Ministry Team, setting a vibrant and reflective tone for the event.
The special guest speaker, Sr Terecia Loukang, FSIC, — who serves as the coordinator for Catholic Student Affairs in the Archdiocese of Kota Kinabalu — challenged participants with a series of thought-provoking questions designed to prompt selfreflection. She asked: “Are you ready? Am I happy where I am?” She further invited the students to consider why some are easily influenced by peers and eventually convert to another religion, why others become involved in premarital relationships that lead to pregnancy, or why some fall into addiction, drop out of their studies, or drift away from the Catholic faith. She concluded by asking, “Are you ready to deepen your Catholic faith once you enter university or college?”
Sr Terecia inspired the participants by quoting Isaiah 41:10: “So do not fear, for I am with you; do not be dismayed, for I am your God. I will strengthen you and help you; I will uphold you with my righteous right hand.”
She emphasised the importance of Catholic students connecting with Catholic student groups within the archdiocese in which they reside. These groups, through activities such as workshops, counselling sessions, talks, field trips, fellowship, and mission work, play a vital role in helping students stay grounded in both their studies and their Catholic faith.
Sr Terecia also reminded students to maintain regular communication with their parents and family members. “It is critical for students and parents to keep the lines of communication open. This helps parents better understand the challenges their children face at university or college and prevents unnecessary misunderstandings,” she said.
She challenged parents to reflect on their child’s readiness for higher education: “Are your children truly ready for university or college life? It’s not just about financial preparedness. Other equally important areas — physical, mental, emotional, social, and especially spiritual — must be taken into account.”
Addressing a growing concern, Sr Terecia noted: “One of the common problems among Catholic students is that they are easily influenced by other faiths and, in some cases, eventually convert.”
Faith journey and insights on campus life To offer a real-world perspective, Sr Terecia invited three former university students to share their personal experiences of being actively involved in Catholic student groups—testimonies that affirmed the impact and importance of such communities in sustaining faith during campus life.
Noel Hanzel Juvinol Joimil, 28, a Marine Science graduate currently serving with the Sabah Fisheries Department, spoke about how his formation in the Catholic faith began well before university.
“My journey in the Catholic faith started during my school years, when I was encouraged to attend seminars, workshops, talks, and various student activities organised by the Church. As an undergraduate, I did not hesitate to join a Catholic Students Group and participate in their programs,” he shared.
Noel especially enjoyed mission work in the interior regions of the state, which left a lasting impact on his spiritual journey. “Apart from my academic pursuits, the programs organised by the Catholic Students Group helped keep me rooted in the Word of God.” He encouraged undergraduates to adopt a holistic approach to university life, balancing academics, faith, and personal development.
Ceron Ezra Yangun, 24, a graduate in Food Science and Nutrition and a former president of a Catholic Students Group, drew strength from Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Him who strengthens me.”
She presented a thoughtful analysis of how she navigated university life, categorising it into three areas: self, environment, and academics. Self covered mental health, time management, friendships, and hostel life. Environment focused on social interaction and the broader campus experience. Academics encompassed her course load and studies.
“Each of these areas can be challenging if a student tries to handle them alone. As the saying goes, ‘No man is an island.’ That’s why it’s so important for Catholic students to join and engage with Catholic student groups, where they can find guidance, community, and support,” Ceron said.
Andrea Gail, 26, a graduate in Environmental Technology, encouraged students — especially those studying in West Malaysia — to actively participate in Catholic student groups as a means of spiritual continuity and connection.
“These groups not only help us stay focused on our academic goals but also serve as effective support systems in times of challenge,” she said. Andrea also emphasised the importance of staying connected with peers from Sabah and Sarawak, creating a wider network of faith-based fellowship across regions. – Herald Malaysia
