By Margaret Marjorie Goh
MIRI — On the cool and refreshing morning of Sunday 17 August 2025, the congregation of the Church of Mater Dei, Lutong, Miri witnessed a joyful and grace-filled occasion when they participated in the blessing of the new shrine of Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception at the car park area facing the entrance foyer of the Church.
The shrine consists of a larger-than-life-size off-white marble statue of Our Lady with her feet crushing the serpent, her hands extended invitingly and eyes gazing lovingly, standing on a marble pedestal. The elegant configuration was surrounded by pots of beautiful flowers and greens under a newly constructed shed.
The blessing was presided over by Bishop Richard Ng immediately following the 7:00am Sunday Mass. It was on the Sunday following the Feast of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary on 15 August.
The congregation gathered in prayer and devotion, as they participated in the ceremony, putting themselves and their families to the loving devotion of Our Lady. In his short address, Bishop Richard encouraged the faithful to visit the Shrine, pray before Mother Mary, looking to her as a model of faith and obedience and through her example, draw closer to Christ.
The shrine now stands as another spiritual focal point in the Church grounds, inviting all who come to seek comfort, inspiration, and the intercessions of Our Blessed Mother.
Praise the Lord!!
