By Contributed
KOTA PADAWAN — The handover of the Perjalanan Salib from St Ann’s Parish to St Stephen’s Parish, Bau took place on 21 February 2026 at a Mass celebrated by the rector of St Ann Fr Don Don Ramerez OFM, concelebrated by Fr Nelson Evarinus OFM and Fr Davie Entalai.
The Holy Mass began with the beating of the gong by the people from Kampung Sira under the Teng Bukap Zone as a sign of respect and gratitude. The opening song, “Yesus Kami Datang Pada-Mu”, was sung in conjunction with the Liturgy of Lent, reflecting the spirit of repentance and appreciation of faith. The Salib was brought in with great respect by youth representatives of St Ann’s Church.
Before the handover ceremony, a video montage of the journey of the Salib (Cross) to all zones under the umbrella of St Ann was shown. The montage showed the active participation of the faithful in each zone and became a symbol of unity and service spirit throughout the journey of the Salib.
The handover ceremony was officiated by the Chairman of the Parish Pastoral Council (PPC) of St Ann, Mr Judas Ligon to the Chairman of the PPC of St Stephen Bau, Mr David Disam, accompanied by the PPC and youth from St Stephen Bau, witnessed by the Priests as a sign of unity and fellowship in the Church.
Also at the Mass were various Church ministries including youth, hospitality and the Women’s League of St Ann Church, as well as representatives of the faithful from St Stephen Bau. The celebration also became a space to appreciate cultural identity through expressions of gratitude for the presence and participation of the faithful from various backgrounds.
After the closing prayer, the Salib was brought out by the youth of St Stephen Bau and accompanied by the theme song of the journey of the Salib, “Bangkitlah”, as a symbol of the message and continuity of the mission of faith.
The handover of the Salib between the two parishes marks another historic moment in the brotherly relationship between the two parishes. It is hoped that the Salib will continue to be a sign of blessing, unity and strengthening of the faith of the people for the glory of God.
