Sibuga Catholic Cemetery, Sandakan Sandakan : A Prayer Service was held at the Sibuga Catholic Cemetery this morning 2nd November 2009 at 9.00 am. Fr Thomas Makajil the rector of St Mary’s Cathedral led the service assisted by two extra ordinaray ministers, Thomas Chen and Raymond Wong while the same service at Kam Chai Yen Christian cemetery was celebrated by Fr Paul Lo.
Tending to the graves of their departed loved onesThe faithful are gathered at the cemetery to commemorate their loved ones who had gone before them to their rest. We are reminded to remember that Jesus Christ is the resurrection and the life and whoever believes in Him will have eternal life.
The Prayer Service by Fr Thomas MakajilThe reading taken from the Gospel of St John (6:37-40) clearly states that all believers are promised eternal life. Those gone ahead are united with us through the bonds of grace. They are part of what the Lord talked about in the Gospel reading: the Father sent Him, so He would not lose anything of what the Father has given Him.
The graves adorned with flowersIt is a great thing that the Universal Church takes this one day out of the year especially to remember our loved ones. But for us, Catholics it is not going to be a one day a year affair; it is not an annual thing. It is something that we must remember always to pray for our loved ones, so that they enter into communion with all other Saints and the Lord
Fr Thomas Makajil blessing the graves
The commited workers
Fr Thomas Makajil blessing the gravesRemember and cherish the fond memories of the beautiful past and appreciate the present by living the moment with confidence.
The commited workersA week before a ‘gotong royong’ was held to tidy up the burial ground for the occasion. Raymond Wong, Chairman of the Cemetery Committee led the ‘clean up’ campaign.
by DS