Tawau organises fellowship for its senior parishioners

TAWAU – Some 60 senior parishioners of Holy Trinity Parish here, gathered for a social fellowship at the Parish Basement Hall on 14 Nov 2015. The annual event, organised by the Parish Pastoral Care and Outreach Group of Holy Trinity Church, is in its 11th year. It is a part of the mission to reach out to the elderly in order to sustain and enrich their spiritual needs. In this corporal work of mercy, it is hoped that the younger generation would emulate and act to reach out to the elderly community.

This year around, the event was celebrated at the new Support Centre, renovated in early March with contributions from individuals and well-wishers. It is located at the basement of the parish hall, formerly a Sunday School classroom. The centre has a homely environment; a spacious living area with a television set, kitchen and a nearby toilet. The centre is open from 9 am to 2 pm from Thursday to Saturday.

The purpose of the centre serves to provide a conducive space for the elderly to meet up with one another; to provide spiritual and social support to the elderly; and to develop a sense of belonging.

According to the planned schedule, every Thursday is for Bible Sharing, while Friday and Saturday are for social interaction, spending time with each other, playing scrabble, cards, personal sharing or even going out for home visit.

The elderly who use this facility are very grateful to the community and the Church for providing a place for them to meet up, and to avoid being alone at home. Spending time with those in the same situation, exploring their aging process together and living in a community is a good pastoral activity. Parishioners who have time on their hands are encouraged to be with the elderly, as well as to extend support and care to them. – Julita Kantod