Holy Trinity Parish unites studentsEnergy

Mar 27, 2014

TAWAU (Herald Malaysia): The Holy Trinity Parish has become a meeting centre for the new trainees entering Universiti Institut Teknologi Malaysia (UiTM), Institut Perguruan Tawau (IPG) and Kolej Jururawat Masyarakat Tawau (KJMT).

In wanting to continue their studies, many young people have to leave their homes. Very often they have to overcome many challenges in various areas, especially socially, emotionally and spiritually. Situations such as these can greatly influence their faith life. In response, the Youth Apostolate has come up with a yearly programme to help reach out to these new students.

On Feb 23, a welcoming ceremony was organised by the students of UiTM, IPG and KJMT to meet and greet the new intake and help them integrate into their new environment of higher learning.

There were approximately 40 participants in this activity. The sessions were conducted by representatives from the Youth Apostolate, Diocese of Sandakan, Herry Francis, and a group of seniors from IPG. Also participating was seminarian Stanley William, representing the Parish Priest, and currently undergoing pastoral duties at Holy Trinity Church. Peter Tolok represented outstation St Paul, Balung.

The programme began with a Thanksgiving prayer led by Maxwell Elity Sulaiman from IPG followed by a cake-cutting ceremony as a sign of thanks and to bring the new trainees together. Songs of praise were held in the afternoon followed by many other activities for the newcomers to get to know one another.

Bro Stanley presented the Alkitab as gifts from the Holy Trinity Church to all the new students. The programme continued with two sharings from Maxwell and Beatrice Anthony which was later followed with a closing prayer at 4.30pm.

Even though time was of the essence, the objectives of the programme were achieved. Trainees and students who are of the Christian faith came together in their journey of faith to be strengthened as a team. Hopefully they will continue to pull together as they face new challenges ahead of them.