By Evelyn Jock
At St Mary’s Cathedral, the weekly rosary and novena devotion remains a quiet but steadfast witness of faith.
Every Saturday evening, the rosary begins at 4:50 pm, followed by the novena at 5:10 pm. For many years, the devotion drew a good number of parishioners who gathered faithfully to honour the Blessed Virgin Mary and seek her intercession.
However, like many parish activities, the attendance changed after the COVID-19 pandemic. The number of devotees slowly decreased. At times, the rosary was recited by only about five faithful parishioners, while fewer than ten would remain for the novena prayers.
Despite the small numbers, those entrusted to lead the devotion did not give up. Although it was at times disheartening to see so few present, they continued to gather each week, praying the rosary with perseverance and trust.
Recently, a parishioner who had moved to Kota Kinabalu asked why the novena devotion seemed to have fewer participants, noting how beautiful the prayer to Our Lady is. Wanting to encourage the devotion, he generously donated two dozen novena booklets and had them couriered to Sandakan.
Since then, there has been a small but encouraging change. With the availability of the novena booklets, more parishioners have begun joining the Saturday prayers once again.
Among the quiet stories of grace within the community is that of a parishioner who suffered a stroke earlier this year. Members of the Legion of Mary prayed the rosary for him during his recovery. Today, as he continues to regain his strength, he faithfully attends the Saturday rosary and novena. Grateful for his healing, he has even expressed his desire to serve God by helping to lead the prayers after receiving proper guidance.
Moments like these remind the parish community that the fruits of prayer are often unseen but deeply present. Even when only a few gather, their faithful devotion continues to bear spiritual fruits.
The weekly rosary and novena at St Mary’s Cathedral remain an open invitation to all parishioners. Through the loving intercession of the Blessed Mother, the community continues to find strength, hope, and renewed faith in the power of prayer.