Ulu Tiram parishioners to have a new church

May 17, 2024

ULU TIRAM, Johor: The community of the Church of the Holy Family was filled with jubilation as they embarked on a memorable journey towards the realisation of a long-held dream - the construction of their new church building. After nearly three decades of meticulous planning and unwavering dedication, their perseverance has finally borne fruit. The approval to build the new Church of the Holy Family marked a significant milestone, leading up to the ground breaking ceremony held May 1.

The ceremony, which was attended by about 500 people, including six priests and two deacons, was officiated by Bishop Bernard Paul. It was coordinated by the Church Building chairperson, Fr Ryan Innas Muthu, and parish priest, Fr Martinian Lee. The atmosphere was a mix of excitement and reverence. It was a celebration of cultural diversity, beginning with the lion dance, followed by the Ngajat, Sumazau and Kolattam cultural dances performed to welcome this joyous occasion, representing the rich diversity of Holy Family parishioners. The procession and symbolic launch of the new church building were held at the precise locations where the church aisle and sanctuary will stand, symbolising the commencement of this transformative journey.

Amidst prayers, hymns, and heartfelt speeches, Fr Ryan expressed his profound gratitude for the tireless efforts of the past and present church building committee members, parishioners, and priests, as well as the steadfast support of the past and present bishops. He emphasised that this ground-breaking ceremony marks only the beginning of a multi-phase project. Therefore, the successful completion of the new church will depend on the continued support and generous contributions of benefactors, as marked by the launch of the fundraising campaign with a booth set up during the event.

Meanwhile, Bishop Bernard reminded everyone present that this new church is more than just a physical structure; it should be firmly rooted in Christ. Just as stated in the Gospel to “build on the rock, not on the sand,” he emphasised that the only foundation of the Church is Jesus Christ Himself. He encapsulated this concept of building on the R-OC- K with the acronym ‘Rely on Christ’s Kingship’, signifying the necessity to trust in Christ’s sovereignty for the enduring strength and stability of the Church.

The symbolic breaking of the soil by Bishop Bernard Paul and the priests each using a cangkul marked the establishment of a new phase in the spiritual journey of the parishioners. As they break ground on this new chapter, the Ulu Tiram Catholic community embraces the promise of hope and renewal bestowed upon them by the Lord.