BY JACINTHA JOLENE
KUCHING: People from various races besides the Chinese community came together and celebrated the yearly Chinese New Year Mass at St Ann’s Catholic Church, Kota Padawan on Tuesday morning (Feb 1).
The church opened its door to a full capacity of 500 parishioners in conjunction with the festive season with strict adherence to the standard operation procedures (SOP).
St Ann’s Catholic Church priest Friar David Au said he was ecstatic to be able to hold a physical mass for the Chinese New Year celebration.
“You get to at least interact with the parishioners despite the limitation when conducting face to face masses.
“In a physical mass, the singing of hymns creates a better atmosphere as compared to online mass.
“It brings life and a sense of community,” he added when approached by New Sarawak Tribune.
He also said the church would always maintain its tradition of such multi-racial gatherings.
In addition, Au said all communities had worked hand-in-hand to decorate the church.
“The Chinese congregation is very small, with less than 50 in numbers.
“Therefore I’m happy that it is a full church, with people coming from different backgrounds attending the mass, year after year.
“Pre-packed oranges are prepared by the Chinese community as well and placed on respective seats as to prevent crowds,” he stated.
The church is located in the sub-district of Padawan and masses are held every weekend, Saturdays at 6.30 pm and Sundays at 7.30 am and 10.30 am respectively.
