Citing the example of the religious life of the FSIC as a reflection of that community life centered in Christ, it has grown from strength to strength through the grace of God.
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Welcoming Bishop Julius at the Parish Hall |
After the Holy Mass, some 400 parishioners gathered at the Parish Hall to share the joy and significance of its 75 years of existence in Sabah, themed ‘In gratitude we go forth.’
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The Opening song, ‘Here I am to Worship’ |
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A blessed and happy 75th Founding Anniversary to the FSIC and may God bless you |
The night’s gathering began with a slide presentation, giving an insight into the background of the Congregation, it’s beginning, it’s work and mission.
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Top – The Sisters presenting a song and below the dinner fellowship |
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Clockwise top left : Children of the Cathedral BEC, children of the Filipino Community and the Junior Catholic Choir presenting a Timorese traditional dance, Decodenda |
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Top – Teenagers’ Buddy Club , Below – St Cecilia’s Choir Group doing the’ poco-poco’ with the Sisters |
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Youth from the BEC of Taman Indah Jaya |
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A rendition by the Sisters, ‘I give my hands’ |
All the 21 FSIC sisters were on stage rendering a song , ‘I give my hands’ with a combination of wonderful voices, drawing the attention of the people to reflect on the lyrics – a call to serve, as with the opening verse;
I give my hands to do your work
And Jesus Lord I give them willingly
I give my feet to go your way
And every step I shall take carefully
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Sr Grace Deosing fsic, Mother General of FSIC |
Sr Grace in her speech said that she was deeply touched with the tremendous support granted them in celebrating the auspicious event.
‘Our four pioneer sisters took their first profession here in St Mary’s Convent, Sandakan. We have part of our roots here. Coming home to celebrate bears much meaning. It is an expression of our gratitude to God and to all Franciscan Sisters who had journeyed through the years.’
She added that in their mission journey, they are always in the midst of the people. She called on the faithful, clergy, religious and laity alike to support one another as collaborators in making known His name and love.
With much humility, she went on to say, ‘In all our achievement over the years, we give thanks to God and to all of you. However, on occasions where we stumbled because of our failures, weaknesses and limitations, we are truly sorry and we seek your forgiveness.’
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Bishop Julius |
Bishop Julius on behalf of the faithful of the Diocese expressed his heartfelt congratulations and prayerful wishes to all members of the congregation, sharing with them blessings of the momentous occasion.
He said, ‘We are truly inspired by the apostolic and missionary spirit of your congregation, reaching out to the needy and the marginalized, ensuring that the saving message of Jesus Christ reaches as many people as possible.’
‘Your endeavor through your charism in spreading the Good News in Sabah for the last 75 years is to be commended. May God continue to give you strength to face new challenges to achieve your set vision and mission.’
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A blessed and Happy Birthday to you, dear Sr Appollonia fsic standing in the fore front |
The event was lined with the anniversary cake cutting ceremony, also celebrating the birthday of Sr Appollonia Gumbu fsic, rendition of songs, dances and presentation of souvenirs.
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Bishop Julius presenting souvenirs to Sr Grace fsic from the Diocese and the Diocesan Catholic Women’s Apostolate – Congratulations on the 75th Founding Anniversary of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception |
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Closing Prayer by Fr Thomas |
Also in attendance were Fr Thomas Makajil, rector of the Cathedral, Fr Philip Muji, the assistant rector and Sr Maria Dipal RGS.
ds