KOTA KINABALU – The Association of Pauline Cooperators in Sabah marked the opening of their centennial with Mass and fellowship on 30 June 2017, the Solemnity of St. Paul the Apostle.
The event was jointly organized by the Pauline Cooperators, Daughters of St Paul, and the Institute of Our Lady of the Annunciation (Pauline Family in Sabah).
Archbishop John Wong presided the Mass at the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, Sacred Heart Cathedral Karamunsing.
In his homily, Abp. Wong explained the hierarchy of feasts and touched on the theme Wake up the World with the Light of the Gospel as illustrated by St. Paul.
After the post-Communion prayer, the Prayer of the Pauline Cooperators for the Centenary Year was recited by all present.
The Mass ended with the incensing of the statue of St. Paul by the prelate while the choir sang "Scio Cui Credidi" (I Know Him whom I've Believed) – the Pauline Family theme song.
Over 150 people turned up for the event including the Marist Brothers, the Franciscan Sisters, diocesan aspirants and other invited guests.
After Mass, all adjourned to the parish canteen for the fellowship. The opening of the Centenary Year was marked by the unveiling of a scroll as well as a cake-cutting ceremony by Abp. Wong.
In his speech, organizing chairman Sylvester Spiji welcomed all present and gave a brief history of the association while Abp. Wong, in his turn, encouraged the members of the association in their apostolate and urged those still single to consider the religious life as a state of life.
Video clips on the Foundation of the Pauline Family by Blessed James Alberione and on the 25th anniversary celebration of the Pauline Cooperators in Sabah were screened after dinner.
The night, as customary, ended with sumazau dancing by those present.
