By Peter Tan
SRI AMAN — On the holy night of 19 April 2025, the Catholic communities of Our Lady Queen of Peace (OLQP) Simanggang, Holy Family Church (HFC) Betong, and St Ignatius Church (SIC) gathered in joyful celebration for the Easter Vigil Mass, marking the resurrection of our Lord Jesus Christ. This sacred night was made even more special as we welcomed new members into our Catholic family through Baptism, First Holy Communion, Confirmation, and Reception into Full Communion.
Easter Vigil 2025: A Celebration of Faith, Hope, and Renewal
The Easter Vigil, presided over by Rev Fr Jerome Juleng (OLQP), Rev Fr Henry Jimbey (HFC), and Rev Fr Joseph Chai (SIC), was a profound moment of grace. The flickering light of the Paschal candle dispelled the darkness, symbolizing Christ’s victory over sin and death. As the faithful raised their candles, the Churches were filled with a radiant glow, mirroring the spiritual light now shining in the hearts of our newest members.
- Baptism: A total of 86 catechumens (OLQP: 10, HFC: 45, SIC: 31) were reborn in water and the Holy Spirit, receiving the gift of new life in Christ.
- First Holy Communion: 93 children and adults (OLQP: 5, HFC: 57, SIC: 31) received Jesus in the Eucharist for the first time, a moment of deep spiritual intimacy.
- Confirmation: 79 confirmands (OLQP: 18, HFC: 40, SIC: 21) were sealed with the Holy Spirit, strengthening them to live as bold witnesses of faith.
- Reception into Full Communion: 19 individuals (OLQP: 8, HFC: 8, SIC: 3) from other Christian traditions were joyfully received into the Catholic Church.
A warm welcome to our newest Family Members
This Easter Vigil was not just a celebration of Christ’s resurrection but also a homecoming for those who have found their spiritual home in the Catholic Church. As a faith community, we rejoice with our newly baptised, first communicants, confirmed, and received members, embracing them with open arms and hearts.
Let us continue to pray for them and walk alongside them as they grow in faith. May their journey inspire us all to renew our commitment to Christ and His Church.
Christ is risen! Alleluia!
 Simanggang, Holy Family Church (HFC)...){kind=link}