Sanctuary of LOVE – A gift from Above
In my Father’s house, there are many rooms...” (John 14:2). These words resonate profoundly as I find myself beholding the magnificent St Peter’s Church in Padungan, Kuching, Sarawak, on this momentous day of its consecration.
What a wondrous sight to witness, a grand house of God that not only stands as an architectural marvel but embodies the vibrant faith and spirit of our Catholic community in Kuching and beyond.
The opening ceremony today is not merely an event; it is an outpouring of gratitude, a celebration of unity, and a testament to our unwavering commitment to God.
Walking into this hallowed space, I can’t help but feel a rush of emotions—a sense of awe, joy, and reverence permeates the air. Today we celebrate more than a church; we celebrate a dream that emerged from divine inspiration and providence, from fervent prayers and hard work. The construction of this sacred edifice—a remarkable achievement—costs 38 million ringgit, and I am deeply inspired to learn that on the day of its consecration, it stands debt-free.
Witnessing the collective effort, the spirit of giving, and the dedication of parishioners has been nothing short of miraculous. As for me, it’s a profound lesson in faith, where true commitment of people blends with the amazing providence of God in ways we often overlook.
This grand Church signifies a beacon of hope for our community. As Fr Vincent Chin eloquently articulated in his address, the journey of bringing this vision to fruition has not only strengthened his faith but has also woven a tapestry of resilience among the faithful devotees. This Church is a living testament to the love and unity that our Catholic community embodies. Standing here today, I can feel the echoes of generations past, present, and future, as we gather to strengthen our faith in God.
I relate this Church as House of LOVE… Reflecting on the acronym LOVE, I see its empowering essence manifesting in our lives today.
L for Legacy: This sacred Church will undoubtedly serve as a lasting testament to our faith for generations yet to come.
O for Outreach: St Peter’s Church is a welcoming home for all, embracing those seeking solace, comfort, and community.
V for Vision: This magnificent space reminds us that great things arise from the seeds of hope planted in our hearts.
E for Empowerment: This Church encourages us all to grow stronger in faith, reminding us that we are not alone on this journey.
As I contemplate the significance of this historic Church for our Catholic community and the broader heritage of Kuching, I recognize that it is much more than just a venue for worship. It is a cultural landmark that reflects the unity of our diverse Sarawakian society—a microcosm of the harmonious blend of ethnicities and traditions that define our identity. The spirit of “Sarawak Boleh”—Sarawak CAN—resonates deeply within these walls.
St Peter’s Church, Padungan, Kuching, will cradle moments that celebrate our lives’ important milestones—baptisms, weddings, and farewells. These sacred ceremonies do not merely stitch our families together; they bind the community as a whole, fostering a sense of belonging during times of joy and sorrow alike. In a fast-paced world, the Church serves as a grounding force, allowing us to return to our roots and connect with each other meaningfully.
Looking to the future, I foresee St Peter’s Church as a dynamic hub, evolving to meet the spiritual and cultural needs of our society. Beyond traditional services, I see it enriching Kuching’s landscape through interfaith dialogues and collaborative community projects. The potential for the Church to host cultural events, music concerts, and art exhibitions that celebrate our unique heritage is boundless. By embracing both spiritual cultivation and cultural appreciation, St Peter’s Church will undoubtedly become integral to both our parishioners’ faith journeys and Kuching’s vibrant identity and cultural harmony in diversity.
I am immensely moved today, not merely by the grandeur of St Peter’s Church but by the overwhelming sense of the sacred and heartful belonging it evokes.
This is more than just a Church. This is a sanctuary for our souls, a beacon of divine connection, and a home for generations upon generations. May this sacred space flourish as a testimony of our faith and unity as a Catholic community and our love and harmony as people of Sarawak.
Amen
Esthery
29th June 2025
Sunday
. These words resonate profoundly as I find myself beholding the magnificent St...){kind=link}