By Fr Stanley Goh, SJ
KUCHING — It’s sometimes said that a building remains but a building until it’s blessed and dedicated to God. This was foremost in the minds of everyone in St Joseph’s Private School (SJPS) as we celebrated the Blessing of the SJPS Extension building on Tuesday 23 June 2026. The blessing was incorporated in the school Mass with St Joseph’s Private Secondary School which was presided by Archbishop Simon Poh and concelebrated by Archbishop Emeritus John Ha and six other priests.
During the Mass, Archbishop Simon underlined the importance of the blessing of the new building, setting it apart not just as a space for learning but for God’s love to work on everyone who passes through it. The building stands as a testament to the growth of the school and how this extension is not just a physical one but a sign of the development of the mission of education in the Archdiocese.
Towards the end of the Mass, Archbishop Simon blessed the crucifixes that will be hung in the hall and rooms in the building extension before proceeding to bless the building proper. He was joined by the priests and religious present as they sprinkled the rooms and spaces with holy water.
The SJPS Extension was recently completed and provides much needed new facilities to both St Joseph’s Private Secondary School and St Joseph’s Private Primary School. Apart from the new school hall, dedicated to St Ignatius of Loyola, and a large learning space dedicated to St Francis of Assisi, the extension building contains many other rooms and spaces to support the activities of the school. An extended library and gallery will help with the literary and artistic pursuits just as a music room and dance studio will aid in the development of the performing arts. A multimedia learning space, laboratory and a new canteen will also enhance the learning of all students. The blessing liturgy served as a visible reminder of God’s presence in the school, giving the students, teachers, staff and teachers the confidence to continue to live the school’s motto, Ora et Labora, pray and work, always seeking God’s greater glory.
