By Peter Tan
SRI AMAN — On the sunny morning of 19 October 2024, Mount Hosanna Chapel came alive with excitement as parishioners gathered for a Family Day Sales event, creating an atmosphere filled with joy, faith, and fellowship. Three groups—Our Lady Queen of Peace Church from Sri Aman, the Church of the Holy Family Betong, and the Kuching Parish Team—set up vibrant stalls to share their culinary delights with more than 700 parishioners from across Sarawak and enjoying their quality time with their loved ones.
The diversity of participants was a testament to the sense of community the event fostered. Pilgrims travelled from St Ann’s Church in Kota Padawan, Gabungan Catholic Serian Parish, two kampungs in Bau and Lundu, as well as parishioners from Bintulu and Sibu. Their presence added to the richness and spirit of the day, with each bringing a unique energy to the celebration.
A feast of flavours
At the forefront of the culinary experience, the stall from Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Sri Aman offered a tantalising buffet-style spread. Their famous roasted chicken wings, paired with fragrant rice, curry, and stir-fried vegetables, kept everyone coming back for seconds. There were also local treats such as kuih-muih, fried mee, salted fish, and steamed buns, bringing a touch of home-cooked warmth to the gathering.
The Kuching Parish Team contributed with lighter snacks and refreshing beverages. Their fried keropok lekor and buns filled with keropok ikan were a hit, while their healthy juices offered a refreshing respite from the midday heat.
Adding to the variety, the Church of The Holy Family Betong brought an array of traditional and local favorites. Pansuh (chicken cooked in bamboo), juicy burgers, fried peanuts, roasted corn, pineapples, and fresh local vegetables provided a unique taste of Betong’s culinary heritage.
A celebration of faith and togetherness
More than just a food fair, the Family Day Sales was an opportunity for different parishes and communities to come together, share stories, and strengthen bonds. Children played, families laughed, and friendships grew stronger as people from different corners of the state came together in a shared spirit of unity and joy.
The event was a beautiful reminder of the strength found in community and faith, proving once again that no matter the distance, the Catholic community is united as one family in Christ.
