Faith, fellowship, celebration as Keningau diocese marks 31 years

Over 3000 people attended the much-anticipated 3-in-1 annual celebration of the Diocese of Keningau on May 1, hosted this year by the Church of St John the Baptist in Sipitang.

May 24, 2024

Bishop Cornelius Piong cutting the anniversary cake flanked by priests and elders.


SIPITANG, Keningau: Over 3000 people attended the much-anticipated 3-in-1 annual celebration of the Diocese of Keningau on May 1, hosted this year by the Church of St John the Baptist in Sipitang.

The diocese celebrated its 31st anniversary, the 31st episcopal ordination anniversary of Bishop Cornelius Piong, and the Diocesan Kaamatan Festival. The Eucharist was presided over by Bishop Cornelius Piong and concelebrated with the prelate of Sandakan, Bishop Julius Dusin Gitom, and the diocesan clergy.

In his homily, Bishop Cornelius recalled his reflection on the future during the diocese’s silver jubilee in 2018, wondering what more could be done to make the faith journey of God’s people more meaningful. He found inspiration in Jesus’ prayer to the Father for His disciples (John 17:11-19), which emphasises three key points: 

-- Jesus prays for us to be protected from evil. 
-- Jesus prays for all of us because we belong to Christ. 
-- Jesus prays for us to live in holiness.

“Jesus’ final prayer offers instructions for the continued proclamation of the good news while imploring the disciples to be confident that Jesus has assured their care. As we continue to spread the Gospel today, regardless of who we are - priests, religious, or laity - we can be assured of God’s love and protection when faced with challenges and animosity,” Bishop Cornelius said.

He also reminded the faithful of the diocesan vision of “a committed and effective community serving God’s Kingdom,” which remains their focus and path of faith.

Fr Ronnie Luni, parish priest of the Church of St John the Baptist, expressed gratitude, saying, “We are grateful to God for being able to celebrate the 31st episcopal ordination anniversary of our bishop and the 31 years of the diocese’s existence.” He reiterated the bishop’s call for the people to take the diocesan vision and mission seriously.

Bishop Cornelius thanked the organising team for their efforts in planning and preparing the three-in-one celebration. He announced that the next host will be the Church of St Theresa. Tambunan. After Mass, the crowd enjoyed lunch and were entertained by various performances from the communities of the different outstations.

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