Letter to the Editor
By Esther Law
“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 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 also embodies the vibrant faith and spirit of our Catholic community in Kuching and beyond.
The opening ceremony today is more than a formal event; it is an outpouring of gratitude, a celebration of unity, and a powerful testament to our unwavering commitment to God.
Walking into this sacred space, I can’t help but feel a rush of emotions—a sense of awe, joy, and reverence permeates the air. We are not merely celebrating a building; we are the fulfilment of a dream born o fervent prayers and hard work. The construction of this remarkable edifice—a monumental achievement—was completed at a cost of RM38 million, and I am deeply inspired to learn it stands debt-free.
To witness the spirit of giving, the collective effort, and the steadfast dedication of parishioners has been nothing short of miraculous. For me, it’s a profound lesson in faith, where true commitment when guided by divine providence, in ways we often overlook, can lead to extraordinary outcomes.
This grand church now stands as a beacon of hope for our community. As Father Vincent Chin eloquently expressed in his address, the journey to bring this vision to fruition not only strengthened his own faith but has woven a tapestry of resilience among all the faithful.
Indeed, 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, the energy of the present, and the hope of the future, as we gather to strengthen our faith in God.
I see this Church as a House of LOVE. Reflecting on that word, LOVE, I see its spirit empowering our lives.
- L for Legacy: This church will undoubtedly serve as a lasting testament to our faith for generations yet to come.
- O for Outreach: A welcoming home for all and 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: The 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 recognise 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—resounds proudly 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 broader community, fostering a sense of belonging in both joy and sorrow. In a fast-moving world, the church stands as a grounding force, allowing us to return to our roots and connect with each other meaningfully.
Looking ahead, I foresee St. Peter’s Church as a dynamic hub of spiritual and cultural life. Beyond mass and 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’ journeys and Kuching’s vibrant identity.
I am immensely moved today, not only by the grandeur of St. Peter’s Church, but by the overwhelming sense of love, hope, and belonging it inspires.
This is more than a church; this is a sanctuary for our souls, a beacon of divine connection, and a home for generations to come—may this sacred space continue to flourish as a shining testimony of our faith, our love, and the enduring unity of our Catholic community. Amen.
This is the personal opinion of the author and does not necessarily represent the views of DayakDaily. Letters to the Editor may be lightly edited for clarity.
— DayakDaily
