By Catholic Sabah
LIMBAHAU – Emulating the arrival of foreign Christian missionaries to North Borneo in the 19th century, the MPC Cross began its second journey to Limbahau from Labuan on Aug 23, 2025. The early missionaries arrived in Labuan circa the 1850s and gradually traveled to the mainland of North Borneo, first reaching Limbahau to spread Christianity among the native Kadazan people.
Having arrived from Labuan at 11.30 am, the Cross was unloaded from a double-cab pickup vehicle and removed from its protective casing by Labuan delegates on the side lawn of St Mary’s Secondary School in Limbahau. Limbahau delegates lined both sides of the sealed road.
Led by Fr Thomas Madanan, the Cross was carried to the Jubilee Field, where it was received by Msgr Nicholas Stephen in a handover ceremony. “Filled with joy and gratitude, we from Blessed Sacrament Labuan Parish entrust this Cross to you, Holy Rosary Limbahau Parish. It symbolizes the power of Christ’s love for all people. Amen!” declared Fr Thomas as he handed over the Cross. Msgr Nicholas responded: “With joy, we the parishioners of HRL receive this Cross and promise to spread Christ’s love to everyone in our parish. Amen!”
After the handover, the Cross was processed along the Jubilee Walk path accompanied by the Litany of the Saints, continuing to the front of the church. A welcome dance honoured its arrival before the Cross was escorted into the church, followed by Mass.
In his homily, Msgr Nicholas again welcomed the Labuan delegates and pilgrim groups from St Theresa Church Kota Marudu. He emphasized that the MPC Cross is not merely a symbol but a sign of hope and Christ’s love. He further noted that beyond representing salvation, the Cross is a “school of humility,” teaching its true meaning and spirituality.
When asked, Fr Thomas shared that while the Cross resided in Labuan, they organized programs catering to children, youth, married couples, and the elderly. These focused on four pillars: social, family, ecology, and church. “Through these efforts, we’ve united the people of Labuan to walk and celebrate together in the presence of the MPC Cross,” he stated.
