By Caritas/Soccom
In this Lenten season, as the Church reflects on compassion, sacrifice, and love for our neighbour, parishioners of St. Mary’s Cathedral Sandakan responded generously to a call to share the light of Christ with those in need.
Following a request for assistance from Rev. Fr. Arthur John of St. Francis of Assisi Church, Paitan Mission, the Parish Caritas team mobilised together with parishioners and members of the community to assist families affected by the recent floods in Paitan.
Aid was collected in the form of clothing for adults and children, food supplies, drinking water, and other essential daily necessities, including items for mothers and babies. These simple yet meaningful acts of kindness brought hope and reminded the affected families that they were not alone in their struggles.
On the morning of 7 March 2026, volunteers gathered early at the Parish Hall of St. Mary’s Cathedral Sandakan to sort and load the donated items. Days earlier, volunteers had also assisted in sorting clothing and preparing food supplies donated by generous benefactors for the affected families. The mission saw an encouraging response from parishioners and volunteers, with approximately 25 vehicles joining the convoy to transport the relief supplies.
Before the convoy began its journey, the Parish Priest, Rev. Fr. David A. Garaman, led an opening prayer and imparted a sending-off blessing to all volunteers and drivers, praying for their safety and for the success of the mission.
The convoy departed from the cathedral and arrived at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Sukang, Paitan at about 11:00 a.m., where the aid supplies were safely unloaded and received for distribution to the affected communities.
The humanitarian outreach was coordinated by Caritas of St. Mary’s Cathedral Sandakan with strong support from parishioners, volunteers, and donors who contributed generously, both directly and indirectly, to make the effort possible.
Speaking before the convoy departed, the organizers expressed their heartfelt gratitude to everyone involved. The mission reflected the spirit of Christian charity and solidarity, bringing not only material assistance but also hope and encouragement to communities in need.
Caritas of St. Mary’s Cathedral Sandakan extended its sincere appreciation to all volunteers, drivers, donors, and parish communities who supported the initiative.
As the Church continues its journey through Lent, this outreach stands as a reminder that the faithful are called to live out their faith through compassion, solidarity, and service to others.