3rd WEEK OF ADVENT AND CAROLING BY CANDLE LIGHT AT HOLY TRINITY PARISH TAWAU 10.12.2011.

Tawau : Saturday, 10th December 2011, Holy Trinity Church celebrated the Third Sunday of Advent also known as  'Rejoice Sunday / Pink Candle Sunday' reminding us of the joy that is to come as we await for the the birth of our Lord Jesus Christ. The celebration was presided over by Fr David Garaman, the assistant rector of HTC.


As we prepare ourselves for the second coming of our savior, again we are reminded to reflect on the Gospel message about St. John the Baptist, a great man with humility acknowledging his nothingness compare to the One who is to come and live among us.

Fr David commissioning the carolers

Fr. David explained about the changing of the liturgical color from purple to pink symbolizing an encouragement for us to continue our hope by living in faith and to follow Christ faithfully. We are also being reminded to discern deeply the real vocation of our life.

He urged us to prepare ourselves by living according to the message from the Gospel 'Make Way to the Lord' by reflecting on our lives as Christian and the purpose of our being here. 

He highlighted that we must always make Christ increase in us so that we may grow in order to help others to receive and acknowledge hope and faith while waiting for the coming of our King.

During the Mass all carolers were commissioned for the home caroling program which commenced the following day, 11th December. Carolers were reminded to focus on the real meaning of Christmas and caroling. Proclaiming the good news to others is a wonderful and blessed task especially when it comes from our hearts. 

After the Mass some 800 parishioners proceeded to the Parish Hall for the 'Caroling by Candle Light' event.  

The lighting ceremony graced by Msgr Nicholas

Msgr Nicholas in his welcoming address

Presentations of Christmas carols

The event began with an Opening Prayer led by Msgr. Nicholas Ong, the rector of HTC  after which he graced the lighting ceremony. He called on all carolers that they may bring and proclaim the good news faithfully and joyfully to all parishioners so that they too will reflect and prepare themselves for the coming of our Lord.

The Nativity sketch by the children

Five readings were proclaimed to bring home the message of salvation followed by captivating presentations by the various carolers' groups. The grand finale of the event was the singing of 'Silent Night' with candles lighted up and held high - it was indeed a holy night, calm and bright.

JCK – SOCCOM Tawau.