St Mary's Cathedral Celebrates The Feast Day of St. Francis of Assisi

Fr Thomas blessing the statue of St Francis of Assisi

Sandakan : A commemorative mass in celebration of the feast of Saint Francis of Assisi  founder of the Order of the Friar Minors (OFM) also known as the Franciscans and known for his unbounded love for the environment and creatures was held on Monday, 4th October 2010 at St Mary's Cathedral.

The Eucharistic celebration was presided by the rector, Fr Thomas Makajil with an attendance of more than 200 parishioners.

In his homily, Fr Thomas called on the parishioners to take a closer look into the life of St Francis, one of the greatest saints in the history of the Catholic church. He was known as the 'little poor man of Assisi' who took the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. He invited everyone to walk with St Francis of Assisi in the path of peace, openness,moderation and reverence for nature and love of animals.

Sr Appolonia fsic extended her appreciation to one and all

 After the mass, the parishioners gathered at the front of the Parish Hall to witness the blessing rite of the statute of St Francis of Assisi by Fr Thomas. The statue donated by Datuk Geoffrey Yee of Tawau is placed amidst a well planned landscape befitting for the Patron Saint of animals and ecology.

A token of appreciation to Datuk Geoffrey Yee from Fr Thomas

The landscape setting for the statue of St Francis of Assisi will be further enhanced and the said job has been entrusted to the members of the Cathedral Parish Chinese Pastoral Committee. 

A group photo with Bishop Julius in front of the statue

  
The statue, placed at the most strategic location and visible to all who come to the Cathedral will be a reminder to all faithful to be aware and to take care of the environment and the creatures inhabiting the planet with love and concern. 

Cake cutting by Bishop Julius, Fr Thomas and Datuk Geoffrey

  
After the blessing rite, parishioners  adjourned to the Parish Hall for a 'pot bless' fellowship dinner. Bishop Julius Dusin Gitom was also present at the function.

The Youth with the Franciscan Sisters

Members of the BM Legion of Mary

Bishop Julius, Fr Thomas, Franciscan Sisters, Peter Thien and Jane

Parish Soccom, St. Mary’s Cathedral, Sandakan