By Sophia Soo
MIRI — Sister Martina Nari Sang celebrated her silver jubilee of religious profession on 27 August 2023 at the Church of Mater Dei in Lutong, Miri.
Miri Bishop Richard Ng presided over the Jubilee Mass with four priests concelebrating. Hundreds of faithful including friends and families of the silver jubilarian gathered at the Eucharistic celebration which was followed by dinner and dance performances in the Church hall.
Sister Martina was born on 3 March 1972 in Teru, Tinjar, Baram where she grew up with her Iban parents and 11 siblings. She was baptised as a Catholic when she was in Form 4. After Form 5 she joined a Commitment Seminar in Miri. After the seminar she returned to her village to work as a shop assistant and a kindergarten teacher.
She joined the Franciscan Order in 1993. After five years of formation she received her First Profession on 20 June 1998. Subsequently, on 1 August 2005 she received her Final Profession with ring.
What and Who inspired you to choose religious life?
The Word of God in the New Testament regarding the life of Jesus especially His total self-giving as a sacrifice, and the song ‘Here I Am Lord’.
I was also inspired by my school friends who always prayed and who often attended Sunday Mass and prayer meetings.
When and how did you receive your ‘calling’ to become a religious sister?
I was touched by the song ‘Here I Am Lord’ at the Commitment Seminar in Miri.
I was moved to tears every time we sang this song, when our Lord called ‘Whom shall I send?’ and no one answered Him. One day I told myself and Lord Jesus, ‘Here I am, Lord. Is it I, Lord? I have heard you calling in the night. I will go, Lord. If you lead me. I will hold your people in my heart’.
After the seminar I thought I would serve the Lord by entering the religious life but for two years I stayed and worked in my village. I forgot about my desire to give my life in serving Him and His people.
Until one Sunday Mass. I was gazing at our Lord on the Cross when I heard His call, ‘Whom shall I send?’ With tears in my eyes I obeyed and answered God’s calling for me.
I joined the Order of the Sisters of St Francis of Sarawak (SSFS) in 1993 and by the grace of God I have remained a religious sister till this day. ‘My Lord and my God’ (John 20:28).
What attracted you to your order?
St Francis of Assisi the founder of our Order, the Franciscan spirituality and its way of life, living the vows of Chastity, Poverty and Obedience in the Community.
What is a typical day like for you?
As a full-time catechist with St Joseph’s Cathedral Miri, I reach out to people by sharing the Word of God. I help them in their faith formation. I visit families of the less fortunate and members of the deaf community as I know how to communicate with them in sign language.
What role do you play in your Community?
I am a Faith Animator.
What are your hobbies and interests?
Hiking, eating, and spending time with my friends and Community, sharing our life experiences and supporting each other in faith.
What advice would you give to someone who is considering religious life?
Always feel grateful for the life God gives to every one of us. Treat it with respect and always give thanks for whatever experience you went through in your journey as a pilgrim here on earth. Remember that God never leaves you alone. He is always with you and He loves you.
A religious vocation is a divine calling, consider it because God needs someone to be sent to His vineyard. Whom shall I send? Your turn to answer now.
