By Peter Tan
SRI AMAN — On 26 May 2024, OLQP parish community gathered to celebrate a unique and vibrant Pre-Gawai Eucharistic Mass, marking the beginning of the Gawai festivities. This special occasion was not only a celebration of our faith but also a tribute to our rich cultural heritage.
A Colourful Eucharistic Celebration
The day commenced with a solemn yet joyous Eucharistic celebration, where the Church was adorned with traditional decorations, creating a warm and welcoming atmosphere. Parishioners arrived dressed in their traditional attire, showcasing the diverse and colourful heritage of our community. The sight was a beautiful tapestry of culture, with men, women, and children donning their exquisite costumes, adding a touch of grandeur to the sacred celebration.
The Mass was presided over by Fr Joseph Chai, who highlighted the significance of Gawai in his homily, drawing connections between our faith and cultural traditions. He reminded us that just as we gather to celebrate the harvest during Gawai, we must also gather to give thanks for the spiritual harvest in our lives. The harmonious blend of traditional hymns and the solemn liturgy created an atmosphere of deep reverence and unity.
A Festive Potluck Gawai Dinner
Following the Eucharistic celebration, the festivities continued with a Potluck Gawai Dinner starting at 6.30 pm. The Catholic Centre was transformed into a lively venue, buzzing with excitement and filled with the aroma of delicious traditional dishes brought by parishioners. The spirit of community and sharing was palpable as everyone contributed their favourite recipes, creating a feast that was as diverse as it was delectable.
The dinner was not just about food; it was an evening filled with entertainment and activities that brought joy and laughter to all. Parishioners took to the stage for a Karaoke session, where they showcased their singing talents, filling the air with melodies that ranged from traditional songs to contemporary hits. The energy and enthusiasm were infectious, with everyone cheering and applauding each performance.
The youth community captivated everyone with their Ngajat dance, a traditional Iban warrior dance that displayed both grace and strength. This was followed by an engaging floor exercise performance by the Marian Guild community, who delighted the audience with their Poco Poco dance, a popular line dance that had everyone tapping their feet and swaying along.
Highlight of the Evening: Ngetas Ranyai
The pinnacle of the evening was the Gawai tradition of “Ngetas Ranyai”. This symbolic act of cutting the decorated palm tree (ranyai) represented the culmination of the harvest festival and was a moment of great significance and excitement. The ceremony was performed with reverence, followed by a round of applause and cheers from the gathered parishioners, celebrating the rich heritage and traditions that bind our community together.
A Night to Remember
The Pre-Gawai Mass and Potluck Gawai Dinner was more than just an event; it was a celebration of unity, faith, and culture. It was a testament to our strong community bonds and our shared commitment to preserving our traditions while embracing our faith. As the evening drew to a close, parishioners left with hearts full of joy and gratitude, looking forward to the many blessings and celebrations that Gawai would bring.
This memorable day reminded us all of the importance of coming together as a community, cherishing our heritage, and giving thanks for the abundance in our lives, both spiritually and materially. We look forward to many more such celebrations that strengthen our faith and cultural identity.
