By Peter Tan
SRI AMAN — A Sacred Beginning
On 3 May 2025, Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish (OLQP), Sri Aman, was deeply honored to receive the Salib (Cross) in a solemn and grace-filled Sunset Mass held at St Joseph’s Cathedral, Kuching. Representing OLQP in this sacred moment, Fr Henry Anak Jimbey, the appointed priest in charge, reverently accepted the Cross – an act that marked the commencement of a profound spiritual journey for the parish community.
Fr Henry was joined by Mr Colin Lanuk (Parish Pastoral Council Chairman), Mr. John Inyang (Youth Ministry Chairman), and a spirited delegation of youth from Betong and Saratok, whose presence added vibrancy and youthful zeal to the occasion. The symbolic handover of the Salib from Fr Mark to Fr Henry was rich in meaning, signifying not only a passing of responsibility but also OLQP’s deep commitment to carrying forward this sacred pilgrimage of faith, unity, and renewal.
A Time of Spiritual Renewal
From 3 May to 21 June 2025, the Perjalanan Salib unfolded as a transformative experience for the parish. Each evening after the 6.30 pm Mass, different ministries led spiritually enriching programs, fostering deeper faith engagement. Activities included:
• Holy Rosary recitation and procession
• Taizé Prayer
• Divine Mercy devotion
• Lectio Divina and Bible sharing
• Praise and Worship sessions
• Movie nights with faith-based themes
These gatherings were not only prayerful but also creatively designed to involve parishioners of all ages, reinforcing the beauty of Catholic traditions.
Bringing Faith Beyond Church Walls
A key highlight was the outreach missions, where the faithful carried Christ’s message to schools and longhouses, including:
• Kolej Vakasional Betong
• SMK Dato Patinggi Kedit, Betong
• Rumah Panjang Maja (Betong), Rumah Panjang Skatab (Betong), and Entulang Lalang (Sri Aman).
Through prayer sessions, processions, and fellowship, these encounters strengthened bonds with marginalizsed communities, embodying the Church’s mission of love and inclusivity.
Celebrating Service and Culture
The journey also honored those who serve with “Hearts that Serve”, a special tribute to teachers, nurses, and mothers. Fun-filled events like Ministry Games Day and the Holy Picture Coloring Challenge brought joy and unity.
The Marian Statue Competition showcased creativity, while Malam Budaya (Cultural Night) beautifully merged the closing of Perjalanan Salib with Gawai Festival celebrations. Traditional dances, music, and performances illuminated the evening, reflecting the parish’s rich cultural diversity.
A Sacred Handover: Continuing the Legacy
On 21 June, the journey concluded with the symbolic handover of the Salib to St Jude Parish, Bunan-Tebedu. The Youth Leader and PPC members of St Jude received the Cross from Fr Henry, ensuring the spiritual legacy continues. This moment was more than a ritual – it was a testament to the unbroken chain of faith connecting parishes across the region.
A Testament to Living Faith
The two-month pilgrimage was a time of grace, growth, and renewed devotion for OLQP. It reinforced the Church’s mission – alive, active, and deeply rooted in community. As the Salib journeys onward, the memories and spiritual fruits of Perjalanan SALIB 2025 will remain a beacon of faith for all who participated.
“We carry the Cross not as a burden, but as a light guiding us to Christ.”
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