By DayakDaily Team
KUCHING, June 27: Father Vincent Chin deserves to bask in glory this week as he has weathered many storms and vicious criticism to build his “dream church”, said social activist Francis Siah in a heartfelt tribute ahead of the consecration of the new St Peter’s Church Padungan.
“Even for a happy occasion, please allow me to say this — I hope no one steals the thunder from St Peter’s Church Rector Reverend Father Vincent Chin this week. This is his moment. Let us all accord him due respect and allow him his quiet moment to shine,” said Siah in a statement issued today.
He described Chin as a humble servant of faith who has remained steadfast despite internal opposition in his mission to build what many have come to see as his “Dream Church”.
“Yes, I think Father Vincent deserves to bask in glory this week, even if priests are not supposed to. In case we forget, members of the clergy are only human. Father Vincent has weathered many storms, including vicious criticisms from within, when he set out to build what we can describe as his ‘Dream Church’.
“And he has done it! He deserves our accolades and prayers for many more years of good health to continue his vocation in the service of The Lord and His Church,” he said.
Siah, who will not be in Kuching for the celebrations, extended his warm wishes to Chin, Roman Catholic Archbishop of Kuching Dato Dr Simon Poh, and all members of the Catholic community in Sarawak.
“I will not be in Kuching to witness the consecration of the new St Peter’s Church Padungan, but let me raise a glass to Father Vincent, our Kuching Archbishop Simon Poh, and my fellow sisters and brothers in Christ on this momentous occasion for our Catholic Faith in Sarawak.
“And finally, Father Vincent, a very joyous and blessed 40th anniversary of your priestly life. Keep the fire burning for many more years to come.”
The new St Peter’s Church Padungan will be holding a week-long consecration celebration beginning with the official opening ceremony on June 28, which is expected to draw some 1,500 attendees. This will be followed by a grand Consecration Mass on June 29, where an estimated 6,000 people will gather to witness the historic event.
Running until July 5, the week-long celebration will feature a vibrant programme of religious, cultural and community events. Among the key highlights are the “4070 Celebration” — which marks both the 40th anniversary of Father Chin’s priestly ordination and his 70th birthday — and Echoes of Love – An Evening of Music, a special concert showcasing local and international musical talents.
The programme will also include multilingual Eucharistic celebrations and a special Sunset Mass led by clergy from St Joseph’s Cathedral. — DayakDaily
