True Christian Faith Is Based On Faith And Personal Relationship With Jesus
A Special Pastoral Letter - 12 June 2007
To all Priests, Religious and Laity of Keningau Diocese
May the peace of Christ be with us all.
I write this special Pastoral Letter in view of the phenomenon happening in Kg Patikang and Kg Masak Keningau and the perceptions held by some Catholics. This phenomenon involves apparitions of a cross and Mother Mary 'claimed' to be seen by many people and proven with photos. However, these are only images.
To all Catholics and groups in each parish and mission, we must be cautious in accepting and believing in a phenomenon such as this. In cases like this, the Church will not rush into accepting and approving it per se.
If this phenomenon is true, it will definitely bear good fruits in the lives of the faithful and society. Among them, the faithful will be aware and fulfill their responsibilities toward God, one another and society.
In short, if this phenomenon is true, a sense of repentance will well-up among the faithful and in society. For those who have seen the images and are touched personally, well and good, for this is the effect that we are hoping for.
However, let us realise that true Christian faith is based on faith and our right personal relationship with Jesus.
He is present to us through the Sacraments, His Word, through one another and in His creation and is not influenced by 'apparition' as the phenomenon occuring at Kg Patikang and Kg Masak, keningau.
No matter what, phenomenon such as this must be perceived carefully and with wisdom:
i) The Catholic Church through the Diocese of Keningau does not approve it per se. Catholics are advised not to do the following: 'donate money to the coconut tree' (as some people may take advantage of the situation), conduct novena, pray the rosary, kneel and light candle beneath the coconut tree - these may depict false worship and shallow faith.
ii) Revelation of God is complete through Jesus His Son (Heb 1:1-2). There is no need for us to search for external signs to signify the presence of God. God is usually present in ordinary ways so much so that we fail to recognise and accept Him (Jn 1:10-14).
iii) Usually the revelation of Jesus or Mother Mary takes place on a personal basis, as in Lourdes and Fatima, not with images. Falsification may happen in religious matters.
St Paul has reminded the faithful in Corinth on deception and false apostles, "for Satan himself masquerades as angel of light..." (2 Cor 11:3, 14).
In this IT age, people can falsify many things, documents, images, etc. Don't let ourselves be influenced. What is most bizzare is that the said 'apparition' can move from place to place.
Let us not be disturbed, influenced or even fooled by the various perceptions and assumptions made regarding this phenomenon (Mt 24:4).
True faith is faith in Jesus, united with Him and consistently doing His will through the Church and in our daily lives (Mt 24:13, 23).
As faithful in the Diocese of Keningau, let us continue to be united and faithful to Jesus and His Church in our daily lives, guided by our Diocesan Pastoral Theme, wanting and choosing to serve only Him, our Lord and to form our faith and social responsibilities.
Let us together be responsible in facing this phenomenon so that our actions will not give room and opportunity to others to exploit and abuse the Church, the cross and Mother Mary for personal gains through fearful threats such as 'chain SMS' etc.
"Eucharist: core of our culture of worship, faith formation and social responsibility."
Bishop Cornelius Piong
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Regional Media Body Holds Annual Meet In KK Diocese
BUNDU TUHAN(CS Online).- The Regional Commission for Social Communications (RCSC) held its annual meeting at the Bundu Tuhan Rereat Centre here June 25-26.
Eleven representatives, including Archbishop Murphy Pakiam of Kuala Lumpur, from the Archdioceses of Kuala Lumpur and Kuching, the Dioceses of Kota Kinabalu, Keningau, Miri and Sibu and the Apostolic Vicariate of Brunei met for one-and-half day to share and exchange stories of their experiences in the various fields of church communications.
Present also were Signis World President Augustine Loorthusamy, Union of Catholic Asian News (UCAN) Special Projects Director David Viehland and some observers from the host diocese. There were no representatives from Singapore Archdiocese and the Dioceses of Melaka-Johor and Penang.
A film forum was held before the meeting proper. RCSC Chairman John Lainsin read out the welcome address of Bishop John Lee of Kota Kinabalu who was unable to attend the meeting due to prior commitments. In his address the bishop reminded the participants that "our life testimonies, not technology, communicate the Good News more convincingly" and that "our actions create opportunity for dialogue with others"
In his opening address, Archbishop Murphy Pakiam, president of the Episcopal Commission for Social Communications of the Malaysia-Singapore-Brunei Catholic Bishops' Conference, stressed the importance of media practitioners working alongside with the hierarchy in communicating God's unfathomable love and compassion in a multi-racial and multi-religious environment. He also informed the participants on the recommendations worked out by the bishops during the 6th Bishops' Institute for Social Communications (BISCOM VI) organised by FABC-OSC in Bangkok, Thailand, on May 28-June 2.
The members reported on the media activities including World Communication Day (WCD) celebration in their respective arch/dioceses. Lainsin also reported on Signis Asia 2006 meeting and FABC-OSC Bishops' Meeting 2006. Loorthusamy explained what Signis World is and its various activities in more than 100 countries.
Lawrence John, president of Signis Asia, then gave a briefing on the forthcoming Signis Asia Meeting 2007 in Japan. In the offing is the planning for a trainers' media training workshop to be held in Miri and the possibility of holding a Malaysian Media Awards Night in the near future.
The members agreed to start off their next meeting with a half-day recollection in Kuching next year.
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Keningau Diocese Launches SYD-2
KENINGAU(CS Online).- More than 1,000 people (including around 200 youth representatives from the parishes of the two dioceses in Sabah) took part in the launching of the Second Sabah Youth Day (SYD-2) June 24 at the St Francis Xavier's Cathedral here.
Bishop Cornelius Piong of Keningau presided over the Mass which was concelebrated with Bishop John Lee of Kota Kinabalu and the two priests involved with youth ministry, Father Wilfred Atin of Kota Kinabalu and Father Francis Dakun of Keningau.
The Mass began with the procession of the Youth Cross from the parish hall to the church where it stood at a prominent place. After Communion, Bishop Piong launched the event with a review of the First Sabah Youth Day (SYD-1) in powerpoint. The Cross will travel to the different parishes within the year in the two dioceses until its culmination in August 2008 in Ranau.
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Chinese PCAC Celebrates Its Silver Jubilee
KOTA KINABALU(CS Online).- The Sacred Heart Pastoral Care of the Aged Committee (PCAC) celebrated its silver jubilee of foundation June 24 at a leading restaurant here.
It was held in conjunction with Bishop John Lee's 20th Episcopal ordination anniversary. More than 600 people (mainly elderly) took part in the event. Bernadette Yap emceed the event.
To make the event more lively there were powerpoint presentations on the 20 years of service of Bishop Lee and on the activities organized by the committee during the past 25 years, karaoke singing, lucky draws, oldest couple present, oldest members present, and presentation of certificates and gifts of appreciation to members of the committee as well as ang pows given to those who were 70 and above.
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Penampang Parish Concludes Its 120th Anniversary Of Mission
INOBONG, PENAMPANG(CS Online).- Penampang Parish concluded its yearlong 120th anniversary celebration of mission June 17 at the Sacred Heart Church here.
Bishop John Lee presided over the event which was concelebrated with Rector Father Alexander Sipanul and three Penampang-born priests, Msgr Primus Jouil, Fathers Thomas Makajil and Alexander Jimsy.
To commemorate the event, the bishop blessed the newly built memorial of the two pioneer Mill Hill Missionaries, Fathers J Rientjes (1854-1891) and Alexander Prenger (1856-1902) who were buried at the cemetery behind the church.
The celebration concluded with a programme (drama, song, cake-cutting, dance, lunch) prepared by the youths. An exhibition was also put up by the various zones under the parish.
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SHC Observes Its Feastday After A Long Hiatus
KOTA KINABALU(CS Online).- Sacred Heart Cathedral observed its feast day June 16 after a long hiatus with Mass and a programme of dances by the various parish groups. A hiatus because since the dedication of the cathedral in 1981, the parish has always observed its dedication anniversary rather than its feast day.
Bishop John Lee presided over the event which was concelebrated with Rector Msgr Primus Jouil, his assistants Fathers John Wong, Wilfred Atin, Michael Modoit and former rector - now retired Father Tobias Chi.
The organizers took the opportunity to celebrate also the bishop's 20th Episcopal ordination anniversary: he was ordained and installed as bishop on the solemnity of the Sacred Heart, 26 June 1987. He succeeded the late Bishop Simon Fung who passed away in 1985.
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Papar Holds Groundbreaking Ceremony For Multipurpose Complex
PAPAR(CS Online).- St Joseph Papar held a groundbreaking ceremony for its multipurpose complex June 19. Bishop John Lee officiated the event in the presence of Rector Father Aloysius Fidelis, Assistant Rector Father Johnny Raju, Agriculture and Food Industry Minister YB Datuk Abdul Rahim, pastoral council members and other invited guests.
The two-storey eight-room complex will be used for catechism classes, seminars and other functions of the parish. The estimated RM600,000.00 building will occupy three quarter acre of the mission land. The completion of the project is expected to be in 2009.
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FSICs Commemorates 71st Foundation Anniversary
DONTOZIDON(CS Online).- Members of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception commemorated their 71st foundation anniversary June 16 at regional level.
Sisters stationed around Kota Kinabalu (Kota Kinabalu, Dontozidon Tanjung Aru, Penampang, Telipok) had their anniversary Mass at St Paul Dontozidon. Father John Wong officiated the event.
The local congregation was founded on 16 June 1936 by Msgr August Wachter, fourth Prefect Apostolic of North Borneo and Labuan, with the help of Franciscan Missionary of St Joseph Mother Rose Charnley to serve the prefecture (now diocese).
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More Than A Thousand Turn Up For The Healing Rally
KOTA KINABALU(CS Online).- More than a thousand people from all walks of life turned up for the three-day healing rally organized by the Catholic Charismatic Renewal-Diocesan Service Team (CCR-DST) at the Sacred Heart Cathedral here. Many came on wheel-chair too, from different parts of Sabah.
Vincentian Father Augustine Mundackatt of kerala, India conducted the rally June 8-10. He stressed that there are three types of healing: spiritual healing through the Sacrament of Confession, inner healing and physical healing. Many went away healed in one form or another.
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Human Development Committees Meet To Discuss Issues
PENAMPANG(CS).- The Human Development Committees (HDC) of both dioceses in Sabah met April 21 at the Catholic Diocesan Centre here to discuss ways and means to help fellow Sabahans studying or working in Peninsular Malaysia and Singapore.
More than 90 participants from the different parishes of Kota Kinabalu and Keningau Dioceses took part in the meeting, including Bishops John Lee and Cornelius Piong.
Msgr Gilbert Engan, vicar general of Keningau Diocese, gave a short reflection at the start of the Kami Setia Batu (KSB, "Ready to Help") Forum before a brief backgrounder was given in powerpoint by KK-HDC Coordinator Dominic Lim.
The participants then listened to Felix Enjuin of Dontozidon who recounted how he was recruited by an agency to work in Singapore and to Mesikata Sito Raymond of Keningau who was recruited to work in a gold jewelry factory in Penang.
Both had the experience of being confined in cramped quarters with minimum facilities with other nationals (of Myanmar, Bangladesh, etc) which made them realise their situation.
Both then left their respective workplace. It was, however, in Johor that Enjuin experienced being drugged and robbed.
Franciscan Capuchin Father Valentine Gompok of Tambunan then shared with the participants his experience of helping fellow Sabahans in the peninsula.
He categorised them into four groups: students, professionals, factory workers and the unemployed.
Most of them, he said, lack solid faith foundation and some have forgotten their cultural and faith roots, and thus easily follow other religions.
The Franciscan friar called on the participants to help parents provide solid faith formation (including receiving the sacraments of initiation) before sending them out for further studies or work.
He then listed four nursing colleges recognised by the government since most of the colleges actively recruiting students from Sabah are nursing colleges.
The four colleges are: Assunta Nursing College College Petaling Jaya, Masterskill College of Nursing and Health Cheras, Mahsa College Kuala Lumpur and Puteri Nursing College Seremban.
Sister Anita James fsic facilitated the open forum which led to some interesting dialogue.
One participant shared his experience of being exposed to the attempts by other religions in recruiting youngsters who hardly know their own religious and cultural roots.
After lunch the participants broke into groups for discussion on how to meet the challenges posed by such migration at both diocesan and parish levels.
One result would be the formation of a cultural/customs/tradition committee in Keningau to help young parishioners understand their own cultural roots and identity.
Another would be the organisation of a roadshow/seminar/workshop by the KK-HDC at parish level.
Lim then summarised the whole process to conclude the forum.
Helpful materials on hand for distribution were the KSB pocket directory, SITA (Stay-In-Touch-Always) forms for would-be students, and YouthPREPLink forms, a six-weekly programme organised by the Good Shepherd Sisters for rural youths thinking of studying or working in urban centres.
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Regional Young Priests Gather At Keningau For Annual Meet
KENINGAU(CS).- About 39 young priests (ordained five years and below) and three deacons (three from Kuching, three from Sibu, one from Brunei, five from Penang, nine from Kuala Lumpur, five from Melaka-Johor, six from Kota Kinabalu, three from Keningau and seven from Singapore) came for the annual regional Young Priests Gathering (YPG) April 16-20.
All the participants gathered at Pace Bene Papar for the welcoming social evening April 16.
Bishop John Lee of Kota Kinabalu welcomed all the participants and expressed his joy that Sabah was chosen to host the gathering.
He encouraged the young priests to refresh and reflect on their priestly life and ministry during the gathering.
After dinner, the participants enjoyed a light moment of sharing among themselves.
The next day the priests left for Keningau, the venue for the gathering via Kimanis-Keningau Road.
They were welcomed by Bishop Cornelius Piong of Keningau upon their arrival at Rumah Retret Keuskupan Keningau (RRKK), Kg Tatal.
While there, the participants gathered at the conference room for group study on Pastores dabo vobis (PDV) facilitated by Father Boniface Kimsin.
He asked them to disucss two questions: How the young priests could support one another in their priestly life and ministry according to PDV # 21-23 and How the young priests could help the candidates to the priesthood (seminarians) in their pastoral formation according to PDV # 57-59.
That evening Father Kimsin presided over the opening Mass at the chapel, followed by a fellowship meal with the bishop, some senior priests, religious sisters and parishioners.
The participants toured the Sabah Agricultural Park in Tenom April 18 and was served lunch by the Immaculate Conception Basic Ecclesial Community (BEC) (workers at the park) at the camp site of the park.
Their hospitality impressed the visitors. After lunch they visited the Tenom Coffee Factory, St Anthony's Church and the Murut Cultural Village.
In the evening the participants visited the Kg Bulu Silou BEC which welcomed them with native traditional gong beating. They were served native dishes and wine and joined in the singing and dancing in the presence of the bishop.
The next day, it was back to study with Father Jestus Pereira, a canon lawyer from KL, giving two talks on Christian marriage according to Canon Law.
The canon lawyer emphasised the role of the pastor in preparing couples for marriage and stressed the importance of pre-nuptial inquiry.
He said it was equally important for pastors to provide help to preserve and protect Christian marriages.
The speaker also explained about marriage validity, retroactive validation, pauline privilege, petrine privilege and marriage annulment.
During the open forum, many of the young priests asked questions and commented that these talks were very helpful in their pastoral ministry.
In the afternoon, the participants gathered again at the conference room to discuss the resolutions and the recommendations of the bishops regarding the Regional Young Priests Gathering.
Bishop Cornelius Piong presided over the closing Eucharist at the St Francis Xavier Cathedral April 19.
In his homily the bishop shared how God's Word has helped him throughout his ministry as priest and bishop.
He encouraged the participants to live out the Word of God in their life and ministry.
At the end of the Mass the bishop announced that Melaka-Johor will host the next YPG in 2008.
The parishioners of the cathedral prepared dinner for the young priests.
The next day the priests bade each other farewell after the morning Mass. - Fr Paul Lo
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Semi-contemplative Institute Grows As More Members Take Vows
KAINGARAN, TAMBUNAN(CS).- The semi-contemplative congregation of Putri Karmel grew bigger as more members took their vows May 1 at their St Mary Magdalene Chapel here.
It was, as presider Bishop Cornelius Piong put it, a "joy" to see young people opting for the religious life in a world of consumerism and materialism.
Around 500 people from both dioceses witnessed the first professions of Novices Seraph Marie (Martha Pusan) of Tenghilan, Roswita Marie (Viancy Gumbuda) of Tenghilan, Mary Dominica (Esther Fataurin) of Tambunan and Mary Thecla (Henritta Honey Francis) of Penampang and the final profession of Sr Mary Terisia (Margarita Apin) of Kuala Penyu during the Eucharistic celebration.
Father Aloysius Tung of Labuan concelebrated the Mass with the bishop.
Mother General Sr Justini Kesuma of Indonesia was on hand to receive the vows.
It was a joyous occasion with participation from three parishes: Tatana dancers from St Peter Bundu Kuala Penyu, choir from St Theresa Tambunan and food service from St Anthony Tenom.
The Rite of Profession began after the homily with the bishop examining the candidates for first profession.
After the examination the candidates went, one by one, to the Mother General to pronounce their vows and to sign the profession document on the altar. Local superior Sister Maximilliane Soon and another sister witnessed the professions.
Similarly with the candidate for the final vows. Before taking the vows, one of the CSE Brothers sang the Litany of the Saints, during which the candidate prostrated herself.
Now in its 10th year, the congregation accepted three candidates into postulancy: Suzie Longan of Kinarut, Gisela Celestina John of Tamparuli and Rita Jain of Ranau the day before (April 30).
On the same day it also accepted Postulant Cynthia Patricia Ajor of Toboh Tambunan into the novitiate.
The male branch, Carmelitae Santi Eliae (CSE) Brothers accepted one candidate, Jerry of Keningau, into postulancy and one candidate, Lorenzo Ruiz Sham Jisem of Toboh Tambunan into the novitiate.
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Limbanak Zone Celebrates 120 Years Of Good News In Penampang
LIMBANAK(CS).- Limbanak Zone celebrated the 120 years of Good News in Penampang with Mass and exhibition May 6 at St Aloysius' Church here.
Rector Father Alex Sipanul celebrated the Eucharist which was enlivened by traditional dances during the entrance procession and Presentation of Gifts accompanied by gong beating.
The Mass was the culmination of a four-day preparation to mark the planting of the Good News by Mill Hill Missionaries in Penampang 120 years ago.
Prior to the anniversary Mass the faithful of the four communities under Limbanak (Kituau Limbanak, Ramayah, Penapah/Kondis and Maang) prepared themselves spiritually through listening to talks on Christ-centred communities (Sylvester Spiji), journeying together (Lawrence Bisuil) on May 3; empowerment by the Holy Spirit (Vitalis Makajil) and Church as Communion (Fr Alex Sipanul) on May 4 at the parish hall below the church.
On May 5, a cross country race was held in the morning from the church to Kituau-Limbanak and an exhibition/slide show was launched in the evening followed by a mini-concert at the hall.
After the Mass a reception was held at the hall with its usual speeches, cake-cutting, slide show on the four communities' history and activities and presentation of souvenirs, plaques and certificates to deserving recipients.
The first church building in Limbanak was built in 1925 on a piece of land at Kg Limbanak, bought by Father August Wachter behind the school (built in 1910 by Father Wachter) on a gotong-royong (cooperative) basis by the people of Kg Limbanak, Ramayah, Kituau, Maang, Penapah/Kondis and Sugud.
In 1945 before World War II came to an end, the Carmelite Sisters were forced to leave their convent in Jesselton (now Kota Kinabalu) for Limbanak.
The church was bombed by the Japanese but the bomb landed on some sago palm trees nearby, creating a big crater which could be seen until the area was reclaimed to make way for the new church in 1990.
In August 1959, the old church and school were demolished and replaced with a new building to accommodate the increasing number of new members.
A fund raising effort was initiated by then rector of Penampang (1969-1973), Father Florian Jud, who went tirelessly around the villages to take family photos which were later used to print donor record cards.
He also went back to his country, Austria, to collect funds for the project (according to a record, a total sum equivalent to RM10,000.00).
The Austrians also donated a church bell with the inscription: For the people of Kampung Limbanak. The bell has since been used by the Sugud Community when the St Matthew Chapel was built in 1986 as it was then under Limbanak.
The construction of the second church was completed in 1961 and was officially blessed in 1962.
Other priests who had served in Limbanak were Fathers Lampe, Borhm, Orberteger, Antonissen, Smit and Preyde.
In 1982, the second church building was extended by 30 feet to accommodate the increasing congregation.
At the same time, the community hall was constructed and named after Father Jud in appreciation of his service to the community.
He came all the way from Brazil (when he was and still serving) for the blessing and opening of the hall by Bishop Simon Fung.
The present church building project was initiated by Datuk Clarence Bongkos Malakun in 1987. It was completed and blessed by Bishop John Lee on 22 Dec 1991.
The RM1.9 million two-storey church has a stained glass of the Madonna and Child imported from Wimbledon London behind the altar, St Aloysius Stained Glass (left wing), St Thomas Stained Glass (right wing), Stations of the Cross paintings, etc.
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Keningau Marks Three-in-one Anniversary Celebration Simply
BUNDU KUALA PENYU(CS).- Around 2,000 faithful gathered for a simple 14th three-in-one anniversary celebration of the interior diocese May 5 at St Peter's Church here.
Those who came included Bishop John Lee, Fathers John Wong, Julius Gitom, Aloysius Fidelis and Thomas Makajil of Kota Kinabalu Diocese and Father Moses Komela of Kalimantan (classmate of Father Boniface Kimsin in Rome) who concelebrated with Bishop Cornelius Piong and the Keningau clergy.
Among others present were the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception who came in full force with Mother General Sr Grace Deosing and the Putri Karmel with their Indonesian Mother General Sr Justini Kesuma, and their counterpart, the CSE Brothers.
There were also representatives from other religious communities like the Daughters of St Paul, Komuniti Betania, and a lone La Salle Brother.
The three-in-one celebration commemorated the 14th anniversary of the erection of the diocese, the episcopal ordination of the bishop and the Diocesan Kaamatan Celebration.
In his homily, Bishop Cornelius expressed his grateful thanks to Bishop Lee for never failing to grace the occasion with his presence since the beginning.
He also expressed the hope that the celebration will renew the quality of his flock's oneness, commitment and obedience to Jesus and His Church.
In his turn, Rector Father Benedict Daulis expressed his joy at being able to host the occasion and said it was an occasion to move forward at all levels: family, Basic Christian Community, parish and diocese.
In his speech, organising team chairman Simon Masusih said the occasion was a meaningful one as it was exactly 10 years ago when it first hosted the three-in-one event, that is, on 1 May 1997.
It was rendered more meaningful as the parish was the bishop's own parish.
As a sign to mark the occasion, the bishop pulled a string to unroll the banner depicting the event after Communion.
He also announced that the next parish to host the annual event would be Holy Cross Toboh Tambunan.
The reception was held at the parish hall where a programme of traditional cake-cutting (Sinampulan Nu Labu) dances, singing, lucky draws was held.
While lunch was served to the guests outside the hall, food was also sold at the different stalls managed by the different communities at the nearby school field.
It was indeed a simple celebration on a fine day, after a night of rain, symbolising God's abundant graces.
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Bishop John Lee: 20 Years As Bishop
Born on 5 Nov 1933 to Thomas Lee and Beatrice Ho in Jesselton, John was the third son but sixth child in a brood of nine. Educated in Chinese and English, he entered the seminary in 1956 and was ordained priest in 1964. He succeeded the late Bishop Simon Fung as the second Bishop of Kota Kinabalu Diocese on 26 June 1987.
20 years of Lee Administration: A Quick Review
Division of the diocese into KK Diocese and Keningau Diocese
Administrative Structures
Clergy & Religious
Building Projects
Houses of Formation
Welfare Centres
PAX Assemblies:
Special Assemblies/Gatherings/Celebrations
On the 20th Anniversary of Bishop Lee's Administration
Love of God is central in the ministry of Bishop John Lee
By taking a closer look at the armorial bearings (coat-of-arms) of Bishop John Lee Yit Yaw, one can see that the word LOVE, in Chinese character, is centrally displayed, symbolising the focal point of his mission - to spread the Love of God for the human race.
The character is graphically drawn in two parts. The upper part illustrates the simple roof of a shepherd's hut and the lower part shows the Blessed Virgin Mary and Child Jesus on the manger taking shelter below.
This denotes firstly the deep devotion of the bishop for the Mother of God and our Mother. The local Church that he leads, is like a mother constantly showing her love and mercy for the children of God through the administration of the Eucharist and the other sacraments.
At the same time, the Church acts as a womb for the rebirth of people through the waters of baptism, bringing about the birth of Jesus in the hearts of men and women.
And the motto appearing at the base of the armorial bearings in Bahasa Melayu, Kasihilah Satu Sama Lain (Love One Another), is a constant reminder for the bishop himself and his flock the need to love one another as Jesus has loved us.
The coat-of-arms is a device based upon heraldic laws and traditions which respresents an individual, a corporation, an institution or a political entity.
Faithful in proclaiming the Gospel and guiding the flock in the way of salvation
When Msgr John Lee was examined as a candidate during the Episcopal Rite of Ordination 20 years ago at the Sacred Heart Cathedral, he made a public proclamation that he was resolved to be faithful and constant in proclaiming the Gospel. At the same time, he said he was resolved to sustain and guide the people of God in this diocese in the way of salvation in cooperation with the priests and deacons who share his ministry. True to his word, the bishop has remained faithful to what he had promised. We reproduce below at random a selection of some of the things he has said as bishop on a wide range of topics:
To believe that the Eucharist is "the source of life" means that our very life in the Lord originates from it and is dependent on it. It is, and it must be experienced as the beginning and object of our conversion, joyful liberation and growth in the life of Jesus Christ our Saviour and Lord. It is not just one of those many things we do as Catholics but is the ground of the whole Christian life. (18th PAX Assembly, 31 Aug 1989)
The ultimate goal for every parish in the Diocese of Kota Kinabalu is to build a united and strong parish community. It is only when we are of one heart and one mind that we can move ahead with our pastoral programmes. I do not care much if there is any attack from outside (the Church), because if we are united in Christ, we can withstand all (obstacles). What I care most is unity within. Every group in the parish therefore needs to work together, with one another and with the parish priest. (To parish leaders of St Joseph Papar, 19 March 1995)
Christmas is an ideal time to pass our faith to the children. Seize the opportunity. Let the crib take centre stage and gather around it before your Christmas dinner and narrate the story of the Nativity to the whole family. Let the light of Christmas shine into our family and allow the power of the Child Jesus destroy whatever fear and confusion that may remain in our midst. Let this light act as a beacon that leads us to the way of peace. (Christmas Message 1994)
Women should not fight for equality with men because God created a woman to be helper of man and to play a complimentary role to him. It is important that you accept yourselves as you are, women, or you can create a hell of a problem for everyone. You have to answer to God as a woman and work as a woman. Husbands, too, have a role to play in respecting the dignity of women. If you can ensure that this dignity and quality of women are recognised and respected in the family, you will progress from there. (To CWL members celebrating Women's Day on 20 Aug 1995, SHC)
This Kaamatan Festival is truly a good and appropriate time for us to reflect on the rich harvests that we have enjoyed in the past and are enjoying at present. It is through celebrations of festivals of the various communities that make up the diocesan family, that the communion among the people can be further strengthened and grow. With the added strength and power given to us by the Spirit of the Risen Lord, we will be able to carry out our common mission with greater courage and enthusiasm. (1995 Harvest Festival Message)
The task before our diocese, therefore, is to consolidate, renew, streamline and harmonise our administrative and other structures, our system of pastoral planning at diocesan and parish levels. In other words, we must develop a proper and effective diocesan and parish pastoral plan that will address the total and integral development of our dicoesan and parish communities. (Pastoral Letter, 26 Nov 1995, Christ the King)
Go in obedience, even if you were to be sent to Pensiangan where there is no house. You should be prepared to do so without question. As long as you are sent to a place, God has a mission for you there and you should go in obedience. Like Jesus, you, too, will have to face criticism. When you are faced with problems, remember Jesus and you will not turn back. (To four newly professed FSIC Sisters on 11 July 1995 during the Rite of First Profession before they were sent out to the various branch houses)
Reflecting on the past eight years (as head of the diocese), I feel that God has blessed the diocese a great deal, allowing it to review and renew. The Lord has done a lot of changes and is showing the time for various changes and events to take place. There had been times when we were not very willing to go along with the timing set by God. But it is God who wants to establish a new heaven and a new earth. We have to plan toward it and to listen to the blowing of the Spirit. (Address on his 8th episcopal ordination anniversary, 26 June 1995, SHC)
The need for a systematic faith formation for the younger generation is urgently felt. Parishes should find ways and means to increase both the human and physical resources to meet such need. I wish to call on the lay people in the diocese to play their role actively as faith formators at home and in their parishes. The number of those who are actively engaged in church life, till now, is relatively small. Many remain at the periphery. The Church per se is yet to be fully visible in the local society as light and salt. (2000 World Mission Sunday Message)
The Jubilee Year is a return to the Father. It is essential for one to feel sorry for one's sins in order to reach the Father because if we cannot feel sorry for our sins, how can we experience God? It is only you who can recognise your own selves and to be able to do so, you need to open yourselves to the Holy Spirit. The Lord tells us not to live like hypocrites because everything that is now covered will be uncovered and everything now hidden will be made clear. Jesus assures each and everyone that there is no need to be afraid because God loves us and we are worth more than hundreds of sparrows. (Jubilee of Catechists Eucharist, 22 Oct 2000, Tuaran)
What others say:
After serving as head of the diocese for 20 years, members of his flock would, by now, have formed a definite opinion about him. Some may have the general impression that he is quiet and very reserved while others may brand him as being conservative. But what about those who have had the opportunity to work closely with him over the years - fellow priests, the religious and lay leaders? What do they say? Here are a few of them, their candid views, based on personal experience.
Prayerful and concern for the family
Msgr Primus Jouil, Vicar general and rector of Sacred Heart CathedralBeing prayerful is an aspect of Bishop John Lee's priestly life that has touched me. He has been quite consistent in this and he wants all his priests to do likewise. He insists that all his priests to be present at the half-day recollection at the beginning of every priests' meeting.
The bishop says that our meeting would be fruitless if we do not spend time in prayer. He himself is of course very prayerful for, if you don't get him on the phone, he is at prayer.
Fellowship among fellow priests is another aspect of Bishop John. He insists that we come together a day before our priests' meeting, especially in the evening to celebrate our sacerdotal anniversaries.
He also stresses the need for priests of neighbouring parishes to meet on a regular basis for fellowship, prayers and meals together.
Several times he has emphasised to priests and pastoral councillors on the need to handle parish funds with transparency and accountability. He says that mishandling of money can corrupt anyone, even the most outstanding people among us.
He has real concern for the family. He continually preaches on the importance of the family, so much so that this year the focus of much of our discussion either at the priests' meeting or the pastoral council meetings is on the family.
I have no doubt that this year's PAX Assembly might focus on this as well.
These are some of the outstanding qualities I have observed in the last 14 years serving as his vicar in the diocese.
Firm, dynamic and life-giving in preaching
Sr Grace Deosing fsic, Superior General of the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate ConceptionI have little recollection of Bishop John Lee during my younger years of religious life, except for the few occasions of seeing him and nodding my head toward him from afar.
But I did hear comments from others describing him as being stiff, strict and quiet. Observing him from afar, I agreed with such comments and I remember feeling a bit scared of meeting him.
However, my opinion about him changed following my encounter with him after returning from a six-month course at the School of Evangelisation in the Philippines. I met to share my experience with him and to seek his advice.
It was from then that I came to know him better, especially after being appointed as head of the Catechetical Commission in 1997.
There are people who say the bishop is a man of few words. Maybe, but I have learnt that this is not quite true. Wait till you have the chance to sit down with him at his office, especially when you have something important to bring to his attention.
Be prepared to listen for you will have no chance to jot down all that he has to say to you! People also say he is firm as a leader. Yes, I agree with that.
Nowadays, I have the privilege to sit down with him more often since being the head of this congregation warrants it. Personally, Bishop John is a person who shows his care, concern and support by way of giving advice, guidance and encouragement.
To us in the congregation, he is a real father and as his daughters, he would not hesitate to correct, admonish, advise or challenge us whenever the opportunity comes, even in his homilies, especially on our feastdays.
I received a lot of encouraging words from him that really gave me strength. For instance, wheh he asked me to head the Catechetical Commission, I told him I knew nothing about its functions. He made it sound so easy when he said, "You just help to coordinate the catechetical activities in the parishes."
When I met him after my election as superior general (2005), he told me, "I am not saying that it is going to be easy. There will be many difficulties and problems ahead. Just go on, even if you may not see its results in your lifetime. At least you made a start."
As bishop, I find that he is full of the Holy Spirit, dynamic and life-giving in his preaching. Whenever I listen to his sermons, I find myself thinking that all his sermons should be recorded because they are so rich.
Disciplined, has work ethics, deeply spiritual
Dominic Lim, Diocesan Executive SecretaryHaving worked alongside with Bishop John Lee since 1995, I think I have a fair glimpse of some aspects of his personality.
Bishop John has a disciplined work ethic. He sees "punctuality" a must for all those working at the diocesan centre. He stressed this many times in his meetings with the staff. He himself has always come on time to the office. To him it is a concrete sign of one's commitment to work.
One thing that challenges me to work harder is to see him coming to work from Monday to Saturday, without a day off, even after a busy weekend.
"Accountability" is another of his important work ethics. He would start a monthly staff meeting with senior staff and expect them to report their work done. Only then would he give his own comments on such reports and help the staff move on.
Once in a while, he would go round to the various offices and see for himself the work of the staff. In a way, it shows that he takes interest in their work and expects them to perform. He often says, "The whole diocese is watching you."
"Giving a just renumeration" is a principle upheld by the bishop. Though there is a general employment guideline, he does not look at the "job title" but prefers to see the "job specs."
So changes in designation do not matter much as long as one does what is assigned to him or her. He tells the staff frankly that the Church is unable to pay what the outside world is giving but he would add, "We will make sure you do not starve."
Bishop John may portray an image of being a "strict employer" when it comes to work, but my experience in the past 12 years shows otherwise. Deep within him is a great love for the Church. He runs the centre (CDC) like a responsible father who has the "whole family" to take care of.
Before he makes a decision, he discerns carefully its consequences at all levels of the diocese. In this respect, he listens more than he speaks. But once decided, he would stick to what he thinks is good for the whole diocese.
His "weakness" is being too forgiving. There were a few occasions when people came to lodge complaints against certain pastoral workers in the diocese. He would receive such complaints calmly and later, he would meet the workers concerned and admonish them as a father does to his children.
Above all, I find Bishop John a deeply spiritual person. Many a time, I am amazed by his ways of handling difficult situations. He always shows prudence and patience.
His trust in God and total surrender to Him simply reveal the depth of his faith. His favourite move is to go back to the Word of God for guidance and strength.
I admire Bishop John for having both physical and inner strength in carrying out his episcopal ministry. His responsibility is enormous and heavy. My conclusion is, God must have been with him all this while!
Very smart, caring and supportive
Father Fundes Motiung, Rector, Stella Maris Parish, Tg AruEven though Bishop John Lee is a very reserved and conservative person, he acts at the right moment and at the right time in all events.
Why do I say this? I recall one particular event very clearly. It was after my priestly ordination nine years ago (6 June 1998). The bishop asked me to help out at the Sacred Heart Cathedral where both the parish priest (Father Cosmas Lee) and his assistant (Father Nicholas Stephen) were on leave.
I had to manage the office alone although I had no previous experience. Bishop used to come to the office very frequently and gave some advice. But what impressed me was the companionship he created at that moment in time.
Another event was when I had to go back to Rome for treatment after two years of priestly ordination. I used to write to the bishop, expressing my depression, disappointment and why I had to go through it all. And the bishop always replied my letters with encouragement and care. And I know he was praying for me at that time.
Lastly, I remember the time when the bishop made me a rector (of Stella Maris) after only four years as a priest. For me, it is the confidence and trust Bishop John has in me that I really appreciate.
Besides that, he never condemns but helps the person. I remember an experience in which I made a fool of myself and was in a mess. Bishop called me to his office and asked me what was happening. After I had explained to him what actually took place, he gave me an advice and never condemned me for what I did.
In short, Bishop John Lee is very smart (shown by the way he gives advice for certain issues), caring (when he sees someone in difficulty and he is there to console and give encouragement) and supportive (when you are doing something, he is there to monitor and to observe the progress).
Has farsighted vision for the diocese
Father John Wong, Rector, Catholic Diocesan CentreI feel he is very compassionate as a father toward his fellow priests, giving opportunity after opportunity for them to strive to give "a good and holy" example to the people.
As head of the diocese, he has a farsighted vision, constantly concerned with the growth of each parish and the diocese as a whole. He finds time to visit each parish at least once a year.
As a shepherd, he is very concerned for his flock's growth in faith in God. Whenever he has the opportunity to speak to the people he always encourages them to build their faith upon the Word of God.
As the bishop he cares for all the different groups, especially by paying attention to the growth and progress of all the commissions.
Personally, I always find that the bishop is a very understanding person. Whenever I approach him to clear some of my doubts and problems, he would always listen and offer good advice.
He is "a man of God," finding time to be with God, spending hours before the Blessed Sacrament.
Hence, he would consistently advise people to build their faith on the Word and the Eucharist.
Dedicated, humble, simple, hardworking
Anita Tunggolou, Catholic Women's League Commission HeadI count myself very privileged and greatly blessed to have had the opportunity to work very closely with Bishop John Lee, both at the parish and diocesan levels for more than 20 years.
I started working with him when he was rector of SHC before he became the bishop. I found him very hardworking, dedicated, humble and simple, but above all, very prayerful.
I was a very reluctant worker in the church then...when I saw how hard he was working and how generous he was with his service, I felt I should do my bit for the church as well. That was really the turning point in my life!
As a bishop, he is very spiritual, very approachable, caring, compassionate, patient and discerning. He has a listening ear for everyone and has time for everyone who needs to talk to him and turns to him for counsel.
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MYTC At A Glance
In 1986 three Brothers of St Gabriel (Montfort Brothers) came to Sabah at the invitation of the Light of Jesus Christ Covenant Community (LJCCC) of the Sacred Heart Parish in the Kota Kinabalu Diocese.
They met Tan Sri Bernard Dompok, then State Minister of Finance, who saw the need to initiate the expansion of the Montfort Institution into the diocese to look into the needs of the underprivileged youths there, with emphasis on holistic formation in character and leadership training.
The LJCCC, with the support of the state minister, was instrumental in applying for a piece of land in Lok Kawi for the intended purpose.
However, the KK Diocese decided to allot another 3.65 acre land in Kinarut to the Brothers, which is now being prepared for the construction of the training workshops.
Opposite to this 3.65 acre land will be the residential campus on which St Paul's Chapel on the Hill now stands.
The Lok Kawi land has been earmarked for a future Diocesan Theological College.
The official founding of the Montfort Institution in Sabah actually took off when Brothers Edward Rayappan and Francis Xavier Gasper returned in 1998.
With the help of a number of pioneering staff, namely, Adrian Lee, Carol Kunghi, Elizabeth Lo and Vincent Wong, the Montfort Institution came into being at a rented detached house at Lorong Sang Kancil Satu, Karamunsing.
A good network sprang up which paved the way for the Brothers to buy a 1.1 acre property in Donggongon Penampang, on which they set up the existing Montfort Youth Training Centre (MYTC).
By June 1999 the centre was officially established with the enrolment of 15 boys. It offered three skill courses: motor mechanics, carpentry and welding. Since then, a significant number of youths have been trained and formed by the centre.
Right from the start, the Brothers have seen the need to involve the lay people to help them run the centre.
An advisory board comprising mostly of lay people from the different segments of corporate sector was formed with Dompok as chairman. Since then, many staff have come forward to assist the Brothers to run the training programmes.
As time went on, the demand for places increased to the extent that the institution needed to build a bigger campus which could take in 200 youths instead of just 60 at the present centre.
Notwithstanding the lack of funds, the institution took a great leap of faith in starting the construction of the Kinarut Campus, trusting in divine providence and the many benefactors, supporters and friends to realise the project.
The groundbreaking ceremony for the Kinarut Campus took place on 29 June 2004 with Bishop John Lee officiating it in the presence of then Provincial Brother Dominc Yeo and Minister in the Prime Minister's Department Tan Sri Bernard Dompok.
Today, the reality of the completed residential campus, consisting of St Paul's Chapel, two blocks of dormitories, the multipurpose cum dining building, the pastoral and student affairs building and the Brothers' quarters are a clear testimony of a faith that "believes without seeing."
Despite the constraints of facilities at the Donggongon Centre, the Brothers also felt the need to open its door to the education and formation of girls who desire MYTC's holistic programmes.
So in 2001, the first batch of 12 girls were taken in as "day scholars." They became "fully residential" in 2003.
A temporary house was set up in Kg Sugud through the generosity of Elizabeth Lo who offered her premises for the purpose of accommodating the girls.
The Brothers are assisted by the Sisters of the Infant Jesus who live with the girls and take care of their formation programme.
St Paul's Chapel on the Hill
By divine providence, Datuk Victor Paul pledged to build a chapel for the centre.
He told Brother Francis Chua, MYTC Director and Local Superior of the Brothers:
"It is easier for you to raise funds for the construction of the campus dormitories and workshops but not for the chapel. I will build it for God."
Since then, he has put all his energies into the building of the chapel. Almost every week he visited the construction site to ensure that the intricate designs were well in place.
The Gothic architecture of the chapel has captured the attention of many passers-by as it is very visible from the main road and is the first landmark for visitors coming to the campus.
The conceptual design was planned to create an ambience befitting "praise and worship" to God, with the ascending steps leading to the chapel door and into the presence of God.
The presence of the chapel in the centre is of paramount importance.
The centre, a Catholic institution, is instrumental in bringing about the awareness of the spiritual aspect in the life of the youth.
Hence, the chapel serves as the centre for all spiritual activities.
However, the chapel door is always open for the Catholics living in the vicinity to avail themselves of the services held regularly at the chapel.
The chapel and the campus will be blessed on June 30 at 5:30 PM.
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