The churches thank Ewon for gifts

23 December 2023
By Nabalu News Journalist
KOTA BELUD: Christmas is a time of joy and celebration, it is not merely about exchanging presents or indulging in delicious feasts but a season that embodies the spirit of giving, reminding us of the importance of kindness, compassion, and selflessness.
Pastor Morris Bonsoi of the Seventh Day Adventist Church (SDA) embody this through his vocation where he takes care and oversee seven small churches in Kota Belud. These churches are in Kg Tintapon, Kg Losou, Kg Bokilong, Bukit Damai, Kg.Rangalau, Kg Piasau and CSS Kg Mantob.
“There is a total of 800 church members collectively,” he shares adding that they are doing well except for Bukit Damai church which has an unfinish wall and lack a ceiling.
“We make do with what we have, but we hope that we will be able to complete it soon and ensure that our congregation doesn’t get wet during rainy weather,” he shares.
He expresses his heartfelt gratitude to Datuk Ewon Benedick, the Kadamaian State Assemblyman, for the recent food hamper and cash donation. He emphasises that the act of giving is not only blessed during Christmas but is a meaningful gesture that extends throughout life.
With genuine warmth, he wished everyone a joyful Christmas, encouraging everyone to celebrate the true essence of the season. He concluded his message by expressing a heartfelt wish for God's blessings to be upon us always.
Pastor Jubiline Sungpit, from Sidang Injil Borneo (SIB) in Kg Melangkap, Kapah Kota Belud, leads a congregation of 400 members.
Despite their church building being aged and relatively small, measuring only 40 by 60 feet, Pastor Jubiline is grateful that they have a space to gather and worship. He holds hope for the future, aspiring to repair and expand the church to accommodate their growing congregation.
Recently, the UPKO Office in Kadamaian presented Pastor Jubiline with a food hamper and cash donation. The gifts, presented by representatives and staff of the office, has been received with deep appreciation by the Pastor.
"I am truly grateful for the generosity of Datuk Ewon Benedick, the Kadamaian State Assemblyman. I wish him the utmost success in all his endeavors," Pastor Jubiline expresses his gratitude.
He also extends his heartfelt wishes for a very Merry Christmas to Ewon, as well as to everyone, emphasising the importance of making the event a meaningful and joyous occasion for all.
Through acts of kindness and support, such as the donations received, the spirit of Christmas shines brightly, fostering a sense of unity and compassion within the community.
Senior Pastor Mark Bibos, a dedicated spiritual leader at the Sidang Injil Borneo (SIB) church in Kg Taginambur, tirelessly caters to the needs of his congregation of 300 church members on a weekly basis.
However, his impact extends beyond his local church, as he proudly reveals that there are 33 SIB churches in the Kadamaian Constituency, collectively boasting a membership of 1003 individuals.
Pastor Mark humbly shares that their church in Taginambur is a unique place of worship. Unlike conventional buildings, their church stands as an open structure, devoid of walls.
Over time, the aging roof has succumbed to leaks, presenting challenges during rainy seasons. Despite these physical shortcomings, Pastor Mark remains optimistic, as he passionately expresses his hope for a new building in the future. He envisions a space where the congregation can gather and worship more comfortably, unaffected by the elements.
Nonetheless, Pastor Mark emphasises that the true essence of their faith lies not within the physical structure, but in the togetherness and unity that permeate their community. Despite the humble setting, the church members find solace and joy in their shared devotion, cherishing the bond they have formed through their spiritual journey.
Pastor Mark's unwavering commitment to his congregation is evident in his tireless efforts to cater to their spiritual needs. His leadership and dedication serve as an inspiration to the members of SIB church in Taginambur, reminding them that their faith transcends physical constraints and thrives on the spirit of unity and togetherness.
With heartfelt gratitude, Senior Pastor Mark Bibos extends his utmost thanks to Datuk Ewon Benedick who is also the United Progressive Kinabalu Organisation (UPKO) President, for his generous gesture in providing a food basket and cash to commemorate the joyous occasion of Christmas.
Mark acknowledges that this act of kindness truly embodies the essence of Christmas, which is a day of compassion and giving.
Speaking on behalf of his devoted congregation in Taginambur and the wider Kadamaian community, Mark takes this opportunity to extend warm wishes to everyone for a very Merry Christmas. He fervently hopes that the festive season will serve as a unifying force, bringing people together in the spirit of familial love and togetherness.
Mark emphasises the significance of compassion, generosity, and unity during this special time. He believes that the true meaning of Christmas lies not in material possessions, but in the love and care that individuals extend to one another.
It is through acts of compassion and giving, such as the thoughtful gesture from Ewon, that the spirit of Christmas shines brightest.
In closing, Mark's heartfelt message resonates with the entire congregation and the wider community, as he emphasises the importance of unity and togetherness during this festive season.
He hopes that the bonds of love and fellowship will strengthen, creating a sense of belonging and warmth that extends beyond the Christmas celebrations and throughout the year.-ends
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