Silver jubilarians renew their vows at Mass

KOTA KINABALU – Six Franciscan silver jubilarians renewed the vows they took 25 years ago at the Eucharistic Celebration on 4 Feb 2017 at the Sacred Heart Cathedral here.

The jubilarians were Sisters Christella Lim (Kg Melulugus Beaufort), Suzana Guntabid (Kg Poring Tengah Membakut), Terecia Loukang (Kg Bambangan Inanam), Lounah Pulis (Kg Ramayah Penampang), Carmen Cordova (Taman Damai Jalan Labuk Sandakan), and Joan Michael (Kg Ranau-Ranau Kiulu).

They entered the Congregation of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception in 1989, took their first vows in 1992 and made their final profession in 1997.  They have served in all three dioceses of Sabah at one time or another.

Archbishop John Wong presided over the Mass which was concelebrated with 11 others including Abp Emeritus John Lee, Bishop Cornelius Piong of Keningau, Bishop Julius Gitom of Sandakan, Msgr Primus Jouil, Father John Chong of Kuching, and other priests from KK Archdiocese and Keningau Diocese.

After the homily, the jubilarians renewed their vows in thanksgiving to God for his faithfulness towards them.

Around 500 turned up to witness the event, mainly fellow Franciscan Sisters, members of other religious institutes, Franciscan Seculars,  family members and relatives of the jubilarians, friends and benefactors of the congregation.

The liturgy was enlivened by the singing of the 40-strong combined choir members from Donggongon-Hubah and St Theresa Tambunan.

In his address after Mass, Abp Wong congratulated and thanked the jubilarians for the services they have rendered to the local church in various capacities in the past 25 years.  He encouraged them to continue their services and urged them to take care of their health.

In her turn, Superior General Sister Grace Deosing also congratulated the jubilarians and thanked all those who have journeyed with them down the years, helping them to grow in their vocation and mission.

After Mass, all adjourned to the parish centre for the reception and entertainment programme featuring stage performances by various groups.