KUCHING — The majestic St Peter’s Church in Padungan has been officially opened, standing proudly as both a house of worship and a reflection of Sarawak’s rich heritage, unity and homegrown craftsmanship.
During the official opening ceremony on Saturday, the church’s Rector Father Vincent Chin described the newly built church as a house of God built with love, faith and purpose.
“In designing this sacred space, we were guided by the principle of anchoring traditions, embracing change.
“It was Archbishop Emeritus John Ha who suggested we adopt a classic Neo-Gothic style – to root this church in timeless tradition,” he said.
He added that much of the church carries deep meaning, with the tabernacle mosaic wall inspired by that of St Peter’s College, the roof trusses carry the same design from the old church, but constructed with modern steel instead of traditional wood.
“The altar in the day chapel is the very same from 1949 – the year our parish began.
“The plaque with the Chinese character is the same plaque that was given by the Hang Hwa Catholic community with which the original parish Church was built. These elements connect us across generations,” he said.
He also acknowledged that the church celebrated the hands and talents of the locals whereby the tiles designed by the interior decorator were made by the local tile factory; the main door made of Marabau; the wooden cross hung above the main altar were crafted by our local wood specialist; and the crucifix and fittings were all crafted by local artisans.
“Even the stained glass, while designed and made by Italian masters, was made entirely here on site, incorporating our local Dayak design. This is truly a Sarawak-built church,” he said.
Moving forward, he hoped the church would be a place not just of beauty, but of renewal – a space where one deepened their faith, served one another and grew as a community rooted in Christ.
Meanwhile, a parishioner who is also part of the member of the church’s working team, Donald Tan said the event marked a new beginning that inspired them to strengthen their faith and give their best.
“We are all very inspired by God to try and deliver our best so that moving forward this church will become a very important part of our faith.
“Apart from that, it is not just about the beauty of the church, but a spiritual renewal,” he said.
Another parishioner Esther Law, who is also Yast Group founder, described the official opening of the church as a powerful symbol of faith, hope and unity.
“I am deeply moved by how God has worked miracles throughout the journey of the church. This is truly a special day for all,” she said, while adding the church adds architectural charm to Kuching.
She added that as a landmark in the heart of the city, the church is not just a place of worship but could also serve as a place where people from diverse backgrounds can come together to share their stories, celebrate religious and cultural events, support one another and help the less fortunate.
The opening ceremony also welcomed over 80 pilgrims from the Jesus Caritas Church, Kepong Baru, Kuala Lumpur.
One of the pilgrims, Christina Leong said she was glad to be able to witness this historic church opening and attend the Consecration Mass tomorrow.
“The church is really beautiful. You all Sarawakians are so blessed and the unity of the local community truly reflects the spirit of Sarawak,” she said.
As for a pilgrim from St Dominic and The Rosary Church in Miri, Angela Noie, she had joined a group of parishioners from Miri specifically to attend the church’s official opening.
“When I stepped into the church interior, I was truly amazed and captivated by its elegance and beauty – something rarely seen elsewhere in Sarawak,” she said.
