By Eva Simrenjit Kaur
KUCHING — ‘We seek your help to raise funds for the new church!’ A church notice that was released in mid-June 2024 sparked interest among some youth, one of whom declared “We could help with fundraising, as in organise one. Anyone on board?” This was received with much enthusiasm and several others sprang into action. The seed that was sown soon grew into a 20-people strong committee. But what could we possibly do? A brainstorming session led to many possible events, and the adventurous team chose one that had never been organised before under the Kuching Archdiocese—Trivia Night!
But could it be done? Despite the many uncertainties looming ahead, St Peter’s Youth (SPY) courageously took up the challenge to make the event a reality. Numerous stumbles and fumbles were encountered, yet it was in those moments where God’s graces abound, in the form of new opportunities, generous sponsors and steadfast support from St Peter’s parish priest Fr Vincent Chin, as well as family and friends.
On 26 July 2024, the Samling Hall in Christian Ecumenical Worship Centre opened its doors to welcome 20 participants and 15 members of the audience for Trivia Night. Everyone was warmly greeted with delicious food and a time of fellowship before gearing up for the questions. There were five teams namely Mea Culpa, Pick & Mix, The Blessed Bunch, Lumen Gentium, and Dara Bujang. Christopher Benally the quizmaster effortlessly drew everyone into healthy and fun competition with eight engaging rounds of general-themed trivia questions. Even the audience didn’t miss the chance to join in by writing down their answers, occasionally mistakenly shouting them out in excitement.
Pick & Mix emerged as the champion of Trivia Night and true to the spirit of fundraising, they donated their prize money of RM300 to the church building fund. Mea Culpa got second place; bagging RM250 followed closely by Dara Bujang whose team was presented a RM 200 cash prize. All participants also received a custom engraved keychain as a token of appreciation. It was indeed a night to remember as commented by one of the teams “We genuinely enjoyed Trivia Night!”
The organising committee would like to extend our deepest gratitude to all those who have played pivotal roles in making Trivia Night a success—The Kuching Archdiocese Youth Commission, Association of Churches, Christopher Benally from Bone Daddy Boardgame Cafe, generous sponsors, sporting participants, delightful audiences, beloved friends and family. It is through your contribution and support that this humble event managed to raise a total of RM6,000. We appreciate you and may God bless you abundantly!
“Fundraising is proclaiming what we believe in such a way that we offer other people an opportunity to participate with us in our vision and mission.” – Henri Nouwen
The effort doesn’t end here. Stay updated by following SPY Facebook, Instagram and TikTok profiles. SPY also invites you to make your generous donation and close the debt gap! Donations can be made directly to St Peter’s Development Fund Account 2; bank details as shown below:
St Peter’s Development Fund Account 2
Bank Name: Maybank
Account No: 5110 3863 2278
