A new church for Ulu Tiram being considered

Feb 06, 2016

By Vincent D’Silva
The Holy Family Church is a fast growing parish, which began as a chapel, in 1951.

“The church is always packed to capacity at all Masses, with people standing outside. We have seen the growth of the parish and so we need a new church. The present church is situated near a river and is in a flood-prone area which has seen much flooding over the years,” said Fr Ryan, who is also the parish priest of the Holy Family Church.

“The existing church building and facilities can no longer accommodate our growing needs, hence a bigger space and better facilities are needed to sustain activities such as Mass, formations, catechism lessons, and meetings for the people,” said Fr Ryan Innas Muthu, speaking at a Fundraising Gala Dinner 2016. Also present were Bishop Bernard Paul, Auxiliary Bishop Simon Poh of Kuching, Bishop Emeritus James Chan, a number of priests and deacons. Some 1000 people graced the function which included a dance performance, instrumental presentation and a show by Alfred and his team. A number of items were up for auction in aid of the Church building fund.

He pointed out that the purpose of this Fundraising Gala Dinner was to raise funds to build not only a new church, but also a multi-purpose building which will comprise of classrooms, parish office, meeting rooms, priests’ residence, caretaker’s house and a funeral parlour.

“The building committee has been working hard despite all odds, and we need your assistance to make this project a reality for the glory of God.” He called on the people to help build a House of God for the people of Ulu Tiram.

Later, addressing the crowd, newly ordained Bishop Bernard Paul said the Holy Family community has a history and we must never forget that.

“Remember those who first sowed, those who planted, those who watered and those who nurtured the community,” he said.

He said that now, a new phase has come and the community has decided to build a new house. “May it continue to reflect the spirit of communion and mission of yesteryears, as well as going forward.

The bishop was happy to note that Fr Ryan has embarked on this building project and urged the fundraising committee not to relent and to get it going.

He added, “Things happen when people work together. Together, let us build His kingdom and His Church. Let the Church of the Holy Family be a witness of God’s presence in Ulu Tiram and in Johor.”

During the dinner, the non-Mandarin speaking Fr Ryan gallantly rose to the occasion by singing a Mandarin song. The audience raised RM8,576.00 for his effort.

During the leadership of Bishop James Chan in 1972, the parish played an active role in maintaining the chapel and building the community. Fr Roberge Bertrand, who was then parish priest, was captivated by the awakening, the growth and the maturation of the faith in the community. Hence, in 1976, then Bishop James Chan elevated the status of this chapel to the Church of the Holy Family.

In August 2015, the parish building committee submitted the plans for the building of a new church and other amenities to the authorities.

As the building fund committee of the Holy Family continues with their drive in raising funds, the parish community is seeking divine intervention to ensure their new House of God will become a reality.