Indonesian community celebrates their nation’s independence day

Aug 26, 2015

TAWAU: The IPC (Indonesian Pastoral Community) celebrated the 70th Indonesian Proclamation Day with Mass on August 16, which was also the Feast of the Assumption of our Lady.

The Indonesian migrant community, which forms a major portion of the congregation of Holy Trinity Church, has never failed to observe their national independence day. The spirit of patriotism and love of their country runs high in them.

Most members are engaged in the plantation sector while some are employed in small-medium industries and poultry farms. The women work as house maids and shop assistants.

After Mass, parishioners adjourned to the Parish Hall for a luncheon fellowship and some entertainment. Some 800 Indonesian and local parishioners attended the event.

Gabriel Muda, the newly elected IPC Chairman, extended his gratitude to all the Indonesian parishioners for their unending support and strong teamwork in making the event a grand success. In his touching speech he said, “We are the nomads, migrants in a foreign country. We must endeavour to remain united to preserve peace and understanding among us all. Without genuine commitment, we are not able to provide the best service in terms of our jobs and the Church. Seeking a living in a foreign country reminds us that we must be grateful to God for the opportunity granted us.”

He added that the migrant school has contributed much compared to what they had expected. Children of migrant workers have the opportunity to attend school. Many have excelled in public exams and are now pursuing higher education in Indonesia. He expressed his appreciation to the parish for the many facilities extended to the Indonesian community, pastoral care and outreach programmes to help and guide them towards a better spiritual life.

He concluded by thanking all other communities for journeying with them. “We are happy to be given the opportunity to serve in the parish in the various ministries,” he said.

Fr Johnny Raju, assistant rector,in his homily, said, “Having a good relationship with God must be translated to a wonderful relationship with others. We see others with the eyes of God, so that we do not judge them but accept them as our brothers and sisters. As we celebrate the Feast of the Assumption, let us all honour our Mother Mary for her intercessions. Let us continue to pray for peace and protection. No one can ever be compared to our Mother Mary. She is the mother of the Church and our mother also. She prays for all of us and her prayers are for our salvation.”

He went on to say, “As one of the biggest communities in this Church, let your service be pure and full of humility. We acknowledge your presence in our midst so let us journey together to build the beautiful people of God.”

The programme proceeded with the cutting of the cake and some performances.