By St Ann Parishioner
KOTA PADAWAN — Early in the morning of 20 December 2025, under a gentle drizzle and surrounded by the fresh air of Kampung Sentah, members of the St Ann Chinese Community, together with parishioners from Zone Siburan, gathered with joyful hearts. Step by step, they began their journey up the hills, carrying not only gifts and daily necessities, but also the Good News, love, and joy to be shared with the villagers of Kampung Sentah.
As the team walked uphill, they were greeted by breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere that filled their hearts with peace. Upon arrival, they were warmly welcomed by the beautiful smiles of the villagers. Standing at the top of the hill was the St Gerald Majella Chapel of Kampung Sentah—a humble yet beautiful chapel with a capacity of about 100 people. Decorated with fresh green leaves and filled with donated gifts from St Ann, Kota Padawan, the chapel reflected the spirit of love and generosity that brought everyone together.
The charity outreach program was organised with the purpose of reaching out in love by providing gifts and daily necessities to the children and families of the village. This meaningful initiative was made possible through cash donation collection boxes placed at the Church’s main entrance during Advent season. The campaign culminated in an opening ceremony, witnessed by Fr Don Don Romero Rameraz , OFM and Friar Nelson Evarinus, OFM, who blessed the mission and the contributions.
The program commenced at 8.30 am. with a Carol service led by Catechist Lawrence Ajak, assisted by five prayer leaders. Enriched by the proclamation of the Gospel, the prayer service gently reminded everyone of God’s abiding presence and His goodness among His people.
After the Carol service, the community gathered for a shared meal. Delicious food, lovingly prepared by the Ladies’ Guild of Kampung Sentah, was served. Everyone sat together, chatting, laughing, and enjoying the fellowship, creating an atmosphere filled with unity, warmth, and joy.
The program continued with performances by the Catholic Youth Ministry (CYM) and the children of Kampung Sentah. About eight children delighted everyone with their adorable Christmas song and dance performances, drawing smiles and heartfelt applause from all present.
Next came the games session, starting with musical chairs for the children, followed by balloon games for the adults. Laughter filled the air as everyone participated enthusiastically. All participants received gifts, while the winners were rewarded with hampers, adding to the excitement and joy of the day.
The highlight of the celebration arrived with the appearance of Santa Claus. The atmosphere reached its peak as gifts were distributed to the children and donations were presented to the seniors of Kampung Sentah. The joy reflected on their faces was a beautiful testimony to the true spirit of Christmas and the love shared within the community.
The program concluded smoothly under pleasant weather conditions. At around 11.30 am, with hearts filled with joy and minds enriched with beautiful memories, the team from the Chinese Community and Zone Siburan began their journey down the hill.
The Good News of God was left behind, planted in the hearts of all who participated, whether directly or indirectly. Through the kindness and generosity of donors, all cash and gifts from St Ann, Kota Padawan were safely delivered into the hands of those in need.
The organising team sincerely thanks the kind approval from Rector and all St Ann parishioners for their generous donations, which made this outreach a meaningful and joyful celebration.
Praise the Lord. Merry Christmas to everyone.
