By Johnestine Anak Joji
KOTA PADAWAN — On Friday, 27 June 2025, Kampung Sinjok Hall in Kota Padawan welcomed nearly 900 altar servers, priests, deacons, committee members, and villagers for a special celebration of the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus and the Archdiocesan Altar Servers’ Day. Held on the public holiday of Awal Muharam, the full-day event carried the theme that has resonated year after year: Servire est Orare — To Serve is to Pray.
The day began with registration at 9:00am, as parish groups arrived one by one, greeted by the cheerful atmosphere and a welcoming coffee break prepared by the Ladies Guild. Excitement filled the hall as servers met old friends, formed new ones, and prepared their hearts for the day ahead. A sing-along session led by the Catholic Youth Ministry (CYM) of Kampung Sinjok set a joyful tone, bringing everyone together in voice and spirit.
At 11.00 am, the community entered into the spiritual heart of the event — the celebration of the Holy Mass for the Solemnity of the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus. The liturgy was presided over by His Grace, Archbishop Simon Poh, and concelebrated by Fr Robert Jissem, Fr Galvin, Fr Nelson, Fr Eugene, Fr Cornelius, Fr Don Don, Fr Lazarus Swinie, along with Deacons Henry Umar and Dannie Luis.
The presence of so many clergy created a deeply reverent and communal atmosphere. Altar servers carried out their roles with devotion and precision, living out the very theme of the day. In his homily, Archbishop Simon reminded the young servers that their service is never just routine — it is a way of drawing closer to Christ. Every action, he said, no matter how small, becomes a sacred prayer when done in love.
After the Mass, the programme continued with words of encouragement from Fr Robert and His Grace, who both took a moment to speak directly to the altar servers. Fr Robert reminded them of the joy of serving with a pure heart and how their commitment reflects Christ’s own humility. Archbishop Simon expressed his gratitude to all who serve at the altar, encouraging them to continue being beacons of faith in their parishes and among their peers. He reminded them that being an altar server is not just a role but a vocation that forms the foundation for future leaders in the Church.
Immediately following their speeches, the official Opening Ceremony of Altar Servers’ Day took place. In a moment of significance, His Grace Archbishop Simon Poh, joined by the priests, deacons, and YB Dato’ Henry Harry Jinep, struck the traditional gong — a ceremonial act symbolising the official opening of the day’s celebration. The echo of the gong rang throughout the hall, marking not just the start of the afternoon activities, but also a deeper call to continue living out faith through joyful service.
The rest of the day was filled with creativity, fun, and fellowship. Talents were put on display in the “Altar Server Got Talent” segment, showcasing singing, dancing, skits, and more — all reflecting the joy and enthusiasm of young people serving God. Games and group activities followed, building unity and friendship among participants from different parishes. The villagers of Kampung Sinjok played a generous role throughout the day, offering food, support, and warm hospitality that made everyone feel at home.
As the celebration drew to a close at 5:00pm with the award and closing ceremony, participants left with full hearts and renewed purpose. The day was not just an event — it was a lived experience of prayer through action, and community through faith. Every altar server who knelt at the altar, offered their talents or shared in laughter and prayer, truly embodied the spirit of the day. Indeed, to serve is to pray — and in Kampung Sinjok, that prayer was beautifully lived out together.
