By Peter Tan Boon Leong
SRI AMAN — Nineteen young people from the Parish Youth Ministry (PYM) Sri Aman, representing Holy Family Church (Betong) and Our Lady Queen of Peace Church (Simanggang), participated in the Retreat Servants & Music Ministry 2026 held from 1 to 2 August 2026 at the Catholic Memorial & Pilgrimage Centre (CMPC), Mount Singai, Bau.
Centred on the theme “Faithful Until the End,” the retreat was facilitated by Rev Fr Henry Jimbey and aimed to renew the spirit of service among young people, strengthen their faith, and encourage them to reflect on the true meaning of their calling as servants in the Church.
What made this retreat unique was the absence of a detailed programme schedule and clear instructions throughout the activities. This approach was intentionally designed to observe how participants would respond to unexpected situations and to assess their willingness to take initiative, assume responsibility, and work together without being told what to do.
A particularly impactful moment took place during the ascent to the Catholic Memorial & Pilgrimage Centre (CMPC). Without being directed, participants spontaneously carried stones and sand to the pilgrimage site atop the hill. This humble act served as a tangible expression of servant leadership, demonstrating a willingness to go beyond expectations and contribute selflessly for the benefit of the wider community.
During the sharing and reflection sessions, Fr Henry invited participants to ponder several important questions: “Why am I still in the Catholic Church?” and “Why do I continue to serve?” These questions challenged each participant to examine their motivations and to ensure that their service remains centred on Christ rather than personal interests, recognition, or convenience.
Among the messages that deeply touched the participants were:
“If our path is right before God, His blessings will always remain with us.” and “Jesus is the foundation and pillar of the Church.”
These reflections reminded participants that every act of service should be rooted in a personal relationship with God and guided by a sincere desire to serve others.
In addition to the spiritual sessions, participants took part in interactive games that tested their understanding of Church life, contemporary challenges in ministry, Catholic teachings, and biblical knowledge. The activities provided opportunities for participants to discuss issues currently faced by young people in ministry, including commitment, discipline, active participation, and perseverance in service.
Another meaningful highlight of the retreat was the reflection on the Gospel of John and the account of Jesus washing His disciples’ feet. Rev Fr Henry emphasised that Jesus’ act of girding Himself with a towel represented humility, servant-hearted leadership, and a willingness to put others first. Through this powerful example, participants were reminded that authentic leadership is rooted not in authority or status, but in selfless, humble, and genuine service to others.
The retreat not only strengthened the bonds of friendship and fellowship between youths from Holy Family Church (Betong) and Our Lady Queen of Peace Church (Simanggang) but also renewed their commitment to serve God and His Church with greater dedication.
In line with the theme “Faithful Until the End,” participants returned home with renewed hearts and a deeper understanding that service is not merely a duty or responsibility, but a lifelong response to God’s call to walk with Christ and serve others with love, humility, and unwavering faithfulness.
“True service is not about the position we hold, but about having a heart willing to serve like Christ.”
 Sri Aman, representing Holy Family Church (Betong) and Our Lady Queen of Peace...){kind=link}