Representatives of religious bodies join interfaith Christmas do
SIBU: About 70 people from various religious bodies joined an interfaith Christmas celebration held at a hotel here last Saturday.
The event was hosted by the Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) Sibu Branch.
The participants comprised parishioners from the Roman Catholic Church, the Borneo Evangelical Mission ( BEM), St John’s Anglican Church, The Methodist Church, Sibu Buddhist Association, Sikh Temple Association Sibu, Masjid AnNur, and Sri Mariamman Hindu Temple.
Speaking at the event, Sibu Resident Charles Siaw urged people from different religious backgrounds to continue to foster harmony by showing their love for one another and working together irrespective of their race and creed.
“This wonderful occasion has brought people of various races and religions together today.
“It shows that we appreciate and respect one another’s festivities; it shows our unity in diversity.
“Bear in mind that unity can only exist when there is acceptance; when everyone has a sense of belonging in the society; when there is no friction of thoughts and clash of ideologies,” he pointed out.
He also mentioned that Christmas is a time to think of others, share their time and resources.
“Have a thought for the less fortunate, and reach out to them.
“At this time of the year, it is common for us to make contributions and donations to the needy as well as welfare associations and organisations who are taking care of the needy and the disabled,” he added.
Meanwhile, Roman Catholic Bishop of Sibu Right Reverend Joseph Hii said every religion is in the service of humankind to bring joy and unity to the society and the world.
“We are not here to show our superiority but to work together and to serve the people,” he pointed out.
Also present at the event was chairperson of ACS Sibu branch Pastor Ting Leh Na.