By Peter Tan Boon Leong
ULU ROBAN — In what the faithful are already calling a “rain-kissed miracle,” the long-awaited dream of a new house of worship for the Catholic community of Sg Jaong became a glorious reality on May 2, 2026. The brand-new St Peter The Apostle Roman Catholic Church was officially blessed and opened, marking a historic milestone for the region.
The heavens themselves appeared to join the sacred celebration. As over hundreds of parishioners gathered, a gentle, drizzly rain fell softly upon the roof of the new church building. Far from being a hindrance, the faithful saw in those quiet raindrops the living waters of God’s grace, an anointing from above before the first blessing was even pronounced.
“I will sprinkle clean water on you, and you shall be clean from all your uncleanness” (Ezekiel 36:25), recalled many who were present. The rain was no ordinary weather; it was the Lord’s own asperges, blessing the sanctuary from the heavens.
The solemn and joyful ceremony was graced by His Grace Archbishop Simon Poh, who led the rites of blessing and officiated the opening of the church. He was accompanied by Rev Fr Jerome Juleng, marking a deeply spiritual moment for the local community, who gathered in thanksgiving – many with tears that mingled freely with the rain.
The historic occasion was further honoured by the presence of distinguished guests, including Yang Berhormat Senator Tuan Pele Peter Tinggom (Member of the Dewan Negara), who stood together with community and church leaders from across the region.
Also very much present to witness the milestone were Mr Peter Jackson Erry (Chairman of St Peter Church, Sg Jaong), Mr Colin Lanuk (Chairman of PPC, Our Lady Queen of Peace, Simanggang), Mr Augustine Meling (Representative of MCC, Holy Family Church, Betong), and Mr Peter Engkasan (Chairman of MCC, St Ignatius Church, Saratok). Their presence reflected the unity and shared joy of the wider Catholic community, standing as one Body in Christ beneath the same gentle rain of mercy.
The new house of worship in Sg Jaong now stands as a lasting symbol of faith, perseverance, and community fellowship. What was once a dream has become a sanctuary, and what fell as drizzle was received as blessing.
A joyful celebration of faith as the community comes together for this historic occasion.
“You are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of Hades shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18).
On a rain-kissed afternoon in Ulu Roban, the Lord opened the heavens and opened His house — all at once. May St Peter The Apostle, the Rock upon whom Christ built His Church, continue to intercede for all who enter these doors.
Congratulations and God bless the entire parish family of St Peter The Apostle, Sg Jaong.
