KOTA PADAWAN — A rainy day couldn’t dampen the fiery spirits of the parishioners from St Ann’s Church, Kota Padawan. On 20 December 2024, 35 dedicated parishioners from the Chinese Apostolate Community, Zone Simpok, embarked on a heartfelt mission to Kampung Sapit, a picturesque village nestled high in the hills, to deliver the gift of love and generosity from St Ann’s parishioners.
The charity programme was made possible through cash donation collection boxes placed at the Church’s main entrance for three weeks. The campaign culminated in an opening ceremony, witnessed by Friar Nelson Evarinus, OFM, who blessed the mission and the contributions.
Following the ceremony, the charity group began preparations for the outreach. On the morning of 20 December, the group set off excitedly from St Ann’s Church to Kampung Timurang. From there, rugged four-wheel drive vehicles transported them up to Kampung Sapit, a village perched atop the hills.
The journey was an adventure in itself. Despite the bumpy and slippery roads compounded by rain and wet weather, the group’s joy and determination remained undeterred. They arrived at Kampung Sapit in the evening, eager to begin their mission.
The Chinese Apostolate Community members quickly set to work, inviting villagers to join them in preparing traditional Chinese foods, including tang yuan (sweet rice balls), to celebrate the Winter Solstice. The evening turned into a heartwarming gathering in the village’s bamboo hall, filled with carolling, local delicacies, Rosary prayer, and the joyful distribution of gifts to the village children.
The generosity of St Ann’s parishioners extended beyond borders. Gifts were also sent to the children of Entikong Sanggau Parish, Indonesia, and received by Friar Y. Bartolomeus Tolo. The night was filled with laughter, songs, and a sense of togetherness as the celebration continued into the early hours of the morning.
The following day began with the delivery of food baskets to seven needy families in the village. This was followed by a heartfelt prayer service and a delicious breakfast shared among the group and villagers.
As noon approached, the charity group bid farewell to Kampung Sapit, leaving behind memories that would be cherished for years to come. Their mission was a true testament to the spirit of Christmas—spreading love, joy, and the message of Jesus Christ to those near and far.
Merry Christmas to all, and may the light of Christ continue to shine brightly in every heart!
Contributed
