By Sacred Heart Parish
KOTA SAMARAHAN — On 15 July 2024, Sacred Heart Church was given the honour to host the Sarawak Day Ecumenical Prayer Service for 2024 for Association of Churches Sarawak, Samarahan Branch. It was a profound gathering of faith and unity, drawing together a diverse group of believers under the unifying theme, “May They All Be One”.
The Service began at 7.30 pm, with a procession led by Boys’ and Girls’ Brigade, followed by invited guests. The event was graced by several distinguished guests, including the Archbishop Dr Simon Poh, of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Kuching, Bishop Datuk Danald Jute, Bishop of Kuching and Negara Brunei Darussalam, Pastor Ambrose Liap, Chairman of Association of Churches Sarawak, Samarahan Branch, YB Wilfred Yap, YB Lo Khere Chiang, Dato Georgina Apphia Ngau, Director of UNIFOR, Mr Michael Kong, representing YB Chong Chieng Jen, Mr Daily Joseph, representing YB Datuk Hamzah Hj Brahim, Elder Ambrose Linang, Secretary General of Association of Churches Sarawak (ACS), Church leaders from other denominations: the Anglican Church, Borneo Evangelical Mission, Seventh Day Adventist, Methodist Church Sarawak Chinese Annual Conference, Reformed Presbyterian Church and Gereja Presbyterian Malaysia.
The ceremony continued with the singing of the national anthem, Negaraku, and the state anthem Ibu Pertiwiku. In his warm welcome, Fr Felix Au, Rector of Sacred Heart Parish and Organising Chairman, expressed his deep gratitude for the opportunity to organise this event. He articulated the theme “May They All Be One” from the Gospel of John 17:21, emphasising the significance of unity and communion among Christians. Fr Felix Au conveyed his appreciation to the pastors, Church leaders, and political leaders for their valuable contributions to the development of Sarawak. He also acknowledged Dato Georgina Apphia, the new director of UNIFOR, and conveyed optimism for her impactful leadership. Concluding with a heartfelt prayer, he wished for unity and prosperity for Sarawak and Malaysia.
The event continued with a series of heartfelt prayers and hymns that resonated with the theme of unity. After the Gospel reading, Archbishop Simon delivered an inspiring reflection, highlighting the role of the Church in promoting peace and solidarity. He called for continued efforts to bridge divides and build a community that embodies the teachings of Christ.
The presence of political leaders and representatives from various constituencies underscored the event’s significance in fostering a spirit of unity beyond religious lines.
The service concluded with Benediction led by Bishop Danald Jute and recessional hymn, The Living Hope leaving attendees with a sense of hope and renewed commitment to unity. The Sarawak Day Ecumenical Prayer Service not only celebrated the diverse Christian community in Sarawak but also reinforced the message that in unity, there is strength.
