By HNPT Soccom
TERAWI – An ecological print commemorated Archbishop John Wong’s pastoral visit to Holy Nativity Parish this year, during which he presided over the opening of the parish nursery. The parish established the nursery as one of its environmental projects.
Aside from the opening of the parish nursery, the Aug 3 visit packed was with events, including the Sacrament of Confirmation, bazaar, meeting with the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC), and a parish celebration.
At 8.00 am, the visit began with a meeting with the PPC. At 10.00 am, the Eucharistic liturgy took place, and 106 confirmands received the sacrament from the prelate. Fr Bradley Stephen and Fr Michael Modoit, the parish priest, assisted the Archbishop.
All the confirmands came from the sub-parish of St Simon’s Church, Duvanson (29); St. Peter’s Church, Tombovo (16); and Our Lady of Fatima Church, Talang Taun and from the parish center (61).
As a significant parish event, the Eucharistic celebration’s attendance was tremendous; all the seats in the church, atrium, chapel, and even the tents erected outside were filled with people.
The chairperson, Nairom Donny, in his speech welcomed and thanked the archbishop for his pastoral visit, which served as a source of strength for faith and was a great blessing to all the faithful of the parish and sub-parishes.
He congratulated all 106 confirmands, reminding them that confirmation marks the beginning of a journey of faith, and encouraged them not to be afraid to walk further with Christ. “Let us walk with open hearts, attentive ears, and burning spirits as we continue to grow in faith,” he encouraged.
He also expressed his heartfelt thanks to all who rendered their efforts, time, and services to ensure the success of the occasion, especially the Catholic Women’s League, the choir, catechists, altar boys, sacristan, and wardens. He concluded by acknowledging their dedication as a true reflection of love and unity within the parish community.
In his turn, Fr Michael, expressed his joy and gratitude for the strong turnout of parishioners, to the Sunday School Teachers for preparing the confirmands, and to all who were involved in the liturgical preparation.
In his pastoral address, the prelate encouraged all parishioners to continue participating and supporting parish programs. He remarked that the active participations of parishioners reflect God’s presence and affirmed that the parish is indeed a Christ-centered community. To the newly confirmed, he expressed his heartfelt hope that at least 10 percent out of the 106 confirmands would respond to the call of religious life.
His Grace expressed his heartfelt hope that all the faithful may come to deeply experience God’s love and mercy during this Jubilee Year 2025 which only comes once in every 25 years. He said that for those who have not yet made a Jubilee Pilgrimage to any one of the designated Holy Doors, he reminded them that there are still four months left until the Jubilee Year 2025 ends on Dec 28. However, His Grace gently reminded everyone that it is not a holiday or shopping trip but rather a sacred journey, a time to encounter God’s love and mercy.
Following the speeches, photo sessions were held. His Grace, the Archbishop, together with the parish priests, was then led to Holy Nativity Terawi Parish Hall for the launching of the Nursery and continued in the hall with lunch and fellowship, fostering a spirit of unity and thanksgiving.
The event was further enlivened by a performance prepared by the Parish Youth, featuring the Confirmands as well as children from Tadika St Simon Duvanson and Tadika St Peter Tombovo.
Outside the hall, a lively bazaar was held, offering a variety of food, cakes and drinks, for those in attendance. The bazaar provided not only refreshments but also an opportunity for parishioners and guests to enjoy fellowship in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
