THE climb to the peak of the mountain may take time, but once the destination is reached, the immense joy and satisfaction cannot be described merely with words.
That is exactly how the faithful of the Church of Divine Mercy in Sungai Ara will feel once their goal is achieved at the end of the countless efforts taken to realise a goal meant not only for the parishioners but for the wider community living in Sungai Ara.
The church is on a mission to complete the construction of a multipurpose community centre adjacent to the existing church, which will feature a versatile hall spanning more than 5,000 sqft, capable of accommodating a wide range of activities, including badminton, pickleball, community events, weddings, seminars, educational programmes, and social gatherings.
In view of this mission, the church had organised a fundraising gala dinner at the Cathedral of the Holy Spirit Hall on Sept 20, attracting a large crowd beyond just parishioners of CDM and individuals of the Catholic faith.
The gala dinner boosted the church’s fundraising efforts, having successfully raised RM78,000 in a single night!
It was learned that out of the RM78,000 raised, RM50,000 were generated from the ticket sales, while the remaining RM28,000 were generously donated by well-wishers in the state.
Among the donors were Bayan Baru MP Sim Tze Tzin (RM10,000), who was represented by the Penang Island City Council (MBPP) councillor Chan Soon Aun; Church of Immaculate Conception, Pulau Tikus (RM10,000), represented by its parish priest, Msgr. Jude Miranda, Bukit Gelugor MP Ramkarpal Singh (RM5,000), and Batu Uban assemblyman A. Kumaresan (RM3,000).
Meanwhile, CDM parish priest Rev. Father Michael Raymond OFM. Cap said that as of Sept 20, more than RM3.75 million was raised, which leaves the church with a funding shortfall of approximately less than RM7.3 million.
While delivering his speech during the dinner last weekend, Fr. Michael said he was moved and touched by the overwhelming support not only from individuals of the Catholic faith, but from various beliefs and backgrounds.
“This night proves that this is not only a dinner but a collective effort from all of us to materialise a project meant for multiple reasons to benefit the community at large.
“It is a sanctuary that we are building here, a space for the young to find guidance, fellowship for the seniors, families to grow stronger in love and unity, and ultimately, to serve the community here.
“This gala dinner is just the beginning of the many programmes we have lined up to complete this project, and with the love and support from all of you, this dream and vision can be made a reality,” he said.
Fr. Michael further commended the unwavering belief the people have in the project, and has vowed to continue striving to bring this meaningful effort to fruition. He also personally extended his heartfelt appreciation to the state government, MBPP, and other key state officials for playing an integral role, from assisting in acquiring the land to finalising many documentation procedures along the way.
The night was filled with delicious, mouthwatering dinner, desserts, and of course, a string of exciting performances by parishioners of CDM and others.
Also present during the dinner was MBPP mayor Datuk A. Rajendran.
Story by Kevin Vimal
Pix by Kevin Vimal and Church of Divine Mercy