By Soccom St Simon, Likas
LIKAS – On Jul 12–13, 37 pilgrims from St Simon Catholic Church Likas embarked on a two-day, one-night pilgrimage to Tenom, led by Fr Cosmas Lee and Deacon Canisius Benjamin. The spiritual journey was held in conjunction with the Jubilee Year 2025, a sacred time of renewal, prayer, and rediscovery of faith.
The pilgrimage retraced the historical path taken by Monsignor August Wachter and eight other missionaries, who were captured during World War II and ultimately executed for their faith. By visiting these meaningful sites, pilgrims were reminded of the sacrifices made by those who helped plant the seeds of the Catholic faith in Sabah.
The route included visits to St Michael’s Church (Penampang), St Joseph’s Church (Papar), Holy Rosary Church (Limbahau), St Patrick’s Church Kinuta (Membakut), and St Anthony’s Church (Tenom). At each stop, the pilgrims participated in Mass, the Stations of the Cross, faith talks, and prayers, deepening their spiritual connection to the journey and to one another.
A particularly emotional highlight was Membakut, where the missionaries were last seen alive. Pilgrims visited the old train stop and were warmly received by the parish community of St Patrick’s Church, Membakut, whose generous hospitality was a reflection of true Christian love.
On Sunday morning, the pilgrims joined a Bahasa Murut Mass at St Anthony’s Church, Tenom, a first for many. The Mass, celebrated with the local community, was a truly enriching and eye-opening experience, filled with joy, reverence, and a profound sense of unity. Before returning to Likas, the pilgrims stopped at Sapong, the site of a missionary’s grave. The experience left many with a renewed sense of mission, purpose, and gratitude.
“Each stop from Likas to Tenom was meaningful, especially learning how the railway helped transport the missionary martyrs, it reminded me of my late father who worked in the railway. The prayers and sharings deepened my respect for those who gave their lives for the faith”. “I was most moved at St Anthony Church, Tenom. The glowing message “Hope does not dissapoint’ reminded me that our hope in Christ never fails. I silently thanked God and rejoiced, believing the martyrs are now in heaven”. “God renewed my spirit, especially during the Murut Mass at St Anthony’s Church. The Psalm touched us deeply, and I’m grateful to be part of this Pilgrimage of Hope,” said Teresa Ham, one of the pilgrims.
Fr Cosmas reminded the pilgrims that the Jubilee Year, which occurs once every 25 years, is not just a celebration, but an invitation. An invitation to repent, reflect, and return to the Lord with hope. “…hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit…” (Rom 5:5) Let us be reminded that we, too, are pilgrims on this earth, journeying with Christ, strengthened by the examples of the saints and martyrs, and walking in faith and hope until we reach our eternal home. Inspired to join a future pilgrimage or retreat? Stay tuned for upcoming announcements in our church bulletin or contact the parish office to register your interest.
