CWA marks 10th anniversary with joy

SANDAKAN – The Sandakan Diocesan Catholic Women’s Apostolate (CWA) marked their 10th anniversary with an elaborate two-day event themed “The Joy of Thanksgiving” at St Mary’s Cathedral parish here on 19-20 May 2018.

It commenced with a telematch on the cathedral grounds May 19 with the participation of 108 members from across the diocese. The event kicked off with an opening prayer by Sister Apollonia Gumpu.

Prior to the telematch, St Martin Telupid CWA and St Mark Sandakan CWA led in the warming-up with exercise and group dance.  The CWA of Holy Trinity Tawau coordinated the telematch.

Also present was Father Christopher Ireneus, CWA’s spiritual director. He was given the honour to pick the lucky member from among the participants to receive a special gift. The activity was coordinated by St Dominic Lahad Datu CWA.

The day’s programme culminated in an evening Eucharistic Celebration, presided by Father David Garaman, at the cathedral. After Mass, members adjourned to the parish hall for dinner and prize presentation to the telematch winners.

Sister Grace Deosing presented the prizes to the winners, with the Blue Team emerging as the overall champion.

Everyone regrouped on the evening of May 20 for the highlight of the 10th anniversary celebration,  a fundraising dinner in aid of the Diocesan Seminarian Fund held at the Hakka Hall.

At the dinner, Bishop Julius Gitom expressed his appreciation to CWA for taking up the challenge to build up the Seminarian Fund, and encouraged all to help the seminarians and religious as they are the future of the Church. He also exhorted the CWA to carry on their services to help the Church and all women of Sandakan Diocese.

Cecelia Polo D’ Souza, CWA chief coordinator, acknowledged the hard work of her CWA team for the success of the event.

She urged all members to continue their service to the Church with humility and full commitment, to work and journey together as a Christ-centered committee, hand in hand with all the CWA groups throughout the Diocese, as well as all other Church groups in their respective parishes.

After the cake-cutting ceremony, the local seminarians were introduced and invited to share their faith journey.

The diners were entertained by CWA stage performances, showcasing the diverse ethnicity, cultures, and traditions.

It concluded with a few local dances by all CWA members, as well as few local hits, accompanied by an invited local artiste. – Victoria Salati