By Carol, Diocese of Miri Social Communication Ministry
MIRI — 16 September 2026. Malaysia Day was celebrated in a truly special and grace-filled way by the Catholic community of the Diocese of Miri as the faithful gathered in thanksgiving and joy for the Sacerdotal Ordination of Deacon Joel Rut Markus, the first priest from the Berawan community. The solemn celebration took place at St Dominic and The Rosary Church, Taman Tunku, Miri, where more than 3000 faithful began arriving as early as 8.00 a.m. to witness and celebrate this historic moment together.
Born to Markus Abdon Ajang and Lydia Anyi Ding of Long Jegan, Tinjar, Baram, Rev Fr Joel spent four years at College General, Penang, followed by another four and a half years at St Peter’s College, Kuching, as he journeyed through his priestly formation. He was ordained to the Diaconate on 27 December 2025 at Holy Family Church, Lapok, marking another important step in his journey towards the priesthood.
In his thanksgiving speech, Rev Fr Joel recalled a moment ten years ago when he was among the congregation at St Dominic and The Rosary Church, listening to Rev Fr Guido Gockel, then Rector of the parish and a familiar face to the community, preaching in Iban.
As he listened, Reverend Fr Joel found himself reflecting on why a Dutch priest had taken the time to learn and preach in the local language. This led him to wonder why there were so few local vocations and who would continue the work of bringing the Gospel to the people in their own language and culture.
Then, a simple yet profound question began to take root in his heart:
“Why not you? Why not me?”
That question led him to take a closer look at God’s call. He eventually said “Yes” to the Lord and began the journey that brought him to the altar today.
That same invitation was echoed in the message of Right Reverend Bishop Richard Ng, who encouraged more young men to consider the priesthood. He reminded everyone that becoming a priest requires many years of formation, at least ten years, and calls for patience, perseverance and commitment. Referring to Fr Joel’s own journey, the Bishop encouraged young men not to wait too long, reminding them that the Diocese of Miri needs more priests today.
After the Ordination Mass, the joy continued at the church hall, where the clergy, Rev Fr Joel’s family, parishioners and friends gathered for a fellowship lunch. It was a simple but meaningful time of sharing and thanksgiving with the newly ordained priest.
Rev Fr Joel will now begin his priestly ministry at Holy Family Church, Lapok, where he will serve the faithful and proclaim Christ to the community.
Today, the Diocese of Miri gives thanks to God for the gift of Fr Joel Rut Markus. May his priestly ministry be blessed, and may his “yes” inspire more young men to listen to God’s call.
“You did not choose me, no, I chose you; and I commissioned you to go out and to bear fruit.” John 15:16
Deo Gratias Ad Multos Annos, Fr Joel!
