Sandakan : The building up of BECs has become the pastoral thrust of the Diocese of Sandakan ever since its erection some three years ago. Today, that dream is becoming a reality with BECs being formed across the four parishes of the diocese. The parishes are moving into the concept of being ‘communion of communities’ with faithful actively participating in the life and mission of the Church which is vital in shaping the Church of the future.
Children and teenagers receiving Holy Communion |
The St Mary’s Cathedral Parish Sandakan, yesterday 17th November 2010 saw another BEC being established. The BEC of Taman Indah Jaya located some 7 kilometers from the town held its launching ceremony with a Thanksgiving Mass at the residence of a committed member, Andrew Onggip. The mass was presided over by Fr Thomas Makajil, rector of the Cathedral, attended by some 120 members and invited guests. Also present at the function were Sr Lilian Unsoh fsic, Sr Veronica Kandaung fsic, John Baptis, PPC Chairman and representativesof the various BECs of the Parish.
Fr Thomas in his homily said that as members of a community we need to use our gifts fully and wholeheartedly to do the work of the Lord in building up His Church. We should never hold back our gifts if we know it will serve to further God’s kingdom. Living in a community provides the best venue to combine our abilities and talents so that it will be resourceful and effective.
Members of the BEC of Taman Indah Jaya had been journeying together as a community since April 2010 and today has a membership of 38 families.The committee is s follows;
- Chairman : Leonie Degullacion
- V- Chairman : Andrew Onggip
- Secretary : Ezekiel Kunti
- A Secretary : Agnes Gaduka
- Treasurer : Mary Mojulat
- Committee : Francis Tan, Moses Yong, Dominic Sintar, Jacius, Johnny Francis, Walter Mahibol
Ezekiel Kunti |
The Organizing Chairman, Ezekiel Kunti in his welcoming speech said that the launching of the BEC signals the true witnessing of community life and hoped that every member especially the youth would be willing instrument for the great mission and that is to make Christ known to all.
Suzanna Hon receiving the mock cheque |
The members of the BEC of Taman Indah Jaya contributed a sum of RM2,900 (RM Two Thousand Nine Hundred Only) towards the cost of the RM2.9 million Diocesan Pastoral and Worship Centre.project. The money was handed to Suzanna Hon, Treasurer of the said project by Leonie through Fr Thomas.
The youth performed several items during the launching ceremony and there were lucky draws as well.
Fr Thomas giving away lucky draw prizes to the winners |