By Alleyhandra Celio anak Anis, Media Volunteer Sarawak Mission
Sunday, 27 July 2025
The spirit of reverence filled the air as the evening began with a grand procession led by flag bearers from the Kota Samarahan Pathfinder Club [Photo courtesy of Association of Churches]
On the evening of Monday, 21 July 2025, people from different churches and walks of life gathered under one roof for a purpose close to every heart, to pray for peace in Sarawak. This year’s Ecumenical Prayer Service, organized by the Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS), was graciously hosted by the Seventh-day Adventist Church Kota Samarahan and held at St. Francis’ Church, Kota Samarahan, from 8:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
It was truly an honor for the Seventh-day Adventist Church to be chosen as the host this year, a meaningful opportunity to bring together people of faith from across different denominations in unity and love. The spirit of reverence filled the air as the evening began with a grand procession led by flag bearers from the Kota Samarahan Pathfinder Club, carrying the national and state flags of Malaysia and Sarawak. Following them were heads of churches, priests, pastors, as well as local political and community leaders, all walking in together as a symbol of togetherness and respect.
The theme of the night was rooted in a shared desire to seek God’s blessing for continued peace and harmony in the land of Sarawak. This was not just a formality, but a heartfelt cry from the people, acknowledging that true and lasting peace can only come from God. It was a night of reflection, praise, and intercession, bringing hope amid a world filled with noise, conflict, and uncertainty.
Pastor Semilee Tajau, the president of the Sarawak Seventh-day Adventist Mission, shared the message of the evening. His sermon, entitled “Peace I Leave with You,” was based on the words of Jesus in John 14:27 , “Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you.” Pastor Semilee reminded the congregation that God’s peace is not dependent on outward circumstances. It is a peace that goes beyond politics, beyond religion, and beyond human strength, a peace that guards the heart and transforms communities from the inside out.
Throughout the service, the atmosphere was filled with songs of worship, united prayers, and quiet reflection. There was a beautiful sense of oneness as Christians from different backgrounds stood side by side, praying for wisdom for leaders, healing for families, and lasting unity for the state. In a time when division often dominates headlines, this gathering became a powerful reminder that we are stronger together when we focus on what unites us: our faith in God and our love for one another.
As the evening drew to a close, there was a sense of peace that lingered, not just within the church walls, but in every heart that was present. The 2025 Ecumenical Prayer Service was more than an event. It was a testimony. A testimony that peace is possible, that faith communities can come together with purpose, and that God still hears when His people pray.
Youth Ministry Department
