By Alleyhandra Celio anak Anis, Media Volunteer Sarawak Mission
Thursday, 28 August 2025
The celebration was graced by the presence of leaders from the Sarawak Mission of Seventh-day Adventist. [Photo courtesy of Gibson Sumbang.]
On Sabbath, 23 August 2025, history was made in Sibu Jaya as the Seventh-day Adventist Center of Influence was officially opened. The joyous event brought together a gathering of 90 people, including pastors, church members, and new friends from the community who have been touched by the center’s activities over the past months.
The celebration was graced by the presence of leaders from the Sarawak Mission of Seventh-day Adventist. Those present included Pr. Semilee Tajau, Mission President, Pr. Joggery Gelu, Mission Executive Secretary, Eld. Dave Keith Mina, Mission Treasurer, Pr. Andrew Ganya, Mission Field Secretary, Church Building Coordinator and Ministerial Association, Pr. Chan Tin Loi, Mission Youth, Communication, Chaplaincy and Center of Influence Director, Pr. Henny Nilos, Mission Publishing and Spirit of Prophecy Director, and Pr. Andrew Wong, Sibu District Pastor.
The establishment of the Sibu Jaya Center of Influence is more than just the opening of a building. It is the unfolding of a vision to be a blessing to the community by providing a safe and welcoming space where individuals and families can learn, grow, and find support. Its purpose follows Christ’s method of ministry, meeting people where they are, showing compassion, serving their needs, winning their trust, and gently leading them to Jesus. In practice, the center will focus on wholistic programs that uplift body, mind, and spirit, including health, education, family enrichment, and spiritual development.
In Sibu Jaya, a town rich in diversity where people come from many different backgrounds and cultures, the Center of Influence aims to build bridges of friendship and understanding. It seeks to support families, nurture young people, and provide values that bring hope and meaning to daily life. Above all, it will stand as a shining light to reflect Christ’s love in practical ways that can transform lives.
During the ceremony, meaningful messages were shared by leaders. Pr. Semilee Tajau urged the congregation to abide in Jesus every day, believe in His mission, and commit to His work, reminding them to continue praying for the latter rain and for spiritual revival. Pr. Joggery Gelu encouraged members to use the center as a place of worship and a blessing to the community. Eld. Dave Keith Mina reminded everyone of the strength of unity, saying that God’s family should support each other. Mdm. Liew, Elder of Sibu Jaya, offered her heartfelt prayer that faith would continue to grow and God’s work in Sibu Jaya would flourish. These words became a call to mission, unity, prayer, and faith in God’s leading.
The atmosphere of the opening ceremony was filled with gratitude and anticipation. Songs of praise, heartfelt prayers, and words of dedication lifted hearts toward heaven. Many reflected on how God had guided every step leading to this day, the planning, the prayers, the cooperation, and the tireless efforts of members and leaders. The Center of Influence is not only for Adventist but also for the people of Sibu Jaya. It is a place where neighbors will be welcomed with open arms, where children and youth can find guidance, where families can be strengthened, and where the weary can find encouragement.
The opening of the Sibu Jaya Center of Influence marks the beginning of a new chapter in mission. It is the start of a journey to serve, uplift, and share the everlasting gospel through deeds of love. Just as Jesus ministered to people’s needs before inviting them to follow Him, the center will follow His example by bringing healing, hope, and light to the community. Inspired by Matthew 5:14, “You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden,” the Sibu Jaya Center of Influence is dedicated to being that light, shining with kindness, compassion, and truth so that all who enter may experience God’s love. May this new mission outpost grow as a center of hope, a place of refuge, and a living testimony that when God’s people unite in prayer and service, great things can be done for His glory.
Ministerial Association
