By Alleyhandra Celio anak Anis, Media Volunteer Sarawak Mission
Wednesday, 27 May 2026
On Sabbath, 16 May 2026, the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) Church of Kampung Emperoh Garung held its Church Dedication Ceremony from 8.30 a.m. to 12.00 p.m. This meaningful and historic event was organized to officially dedicate the new house of worship as a symbol of spiritual growth and the development of God’s ministry within the community. The ceremony brought together church members, church leaders, invited guests, and members of the local community to celebrate this special occasion. Guided by the theme, “Let Us Unite Our Hearts to Glorify God and Build a Faithful Community,” the event reflected unity, fellowship, and the commitment of the congregation to strengthen their faith and service to God.
A church is not simply a physical building; it is the house of God and a holy place where His presence is honored and glorified. This is in accordance with the message found in Exodus 25:8, “Then have them make a sanctuary for Me, and I will dwell among them.” As a spiritual institution, the church serves three important purposes in the lives of Christians. First, it serves as a place of worship where believers gather to praise God, worship Him, and listen to His Word. Second, it serves as a place of fellowship where members strengthen one another in faith and grow together as one family in Christ. Third, the church acts as a center for spiritual growth and community development built upon values of love, unity, and service. Psalm 95:6–7 also reminds believers to come before God with humble hearts and worship: “Come, let us bow down in worship, let us kneel before the Lord our Maker; for He is our God and we are the people of His pasture, the flock under His care.”
The dedication ceremony was highlighted by a symbolic opening event that marked an important moment in the program. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was officiated by Pr. Abel Bana, President of Malaysia Union Mission (MAUM), as the official opening of the new house of worship. This was followed by the bell-ringing ceremony led by Pr. Semilee Tajau, President of SAK Mission, symbolizing the beginning of the church’s spiritual journey and ministry. The event also received guidance and support from Pr. Brian Scott Padam, Executive Secretary of SAK Mission, who served as the patron, and Pr. Allen Masiar @ Peton, District Pastor, who served as the advisor. The organizing committee was chaired by Mr. Antonian Simak, together with Mr. Willie Midoi as Church Leader 1, Mr. Bodos Sambo as Church Leader 2, Mr. Willie Midoi and Ms. Marcella Jesua as secretaries, and Mr. Jeremy Endok and Mr. Nangei Bahat as treasurers.
To ensure the smooth flow of the event, various committees were formed with specific responsibilities. The protocol and welcoming team consisted of Mr. Bodos Ak Sambo, Mr. Antonian Simak, Mr. Rangen Jamang, Mr. Satiam Naih, and Mr. Mapu Raki. The guest reception team included Ms. Valienty Rechi, Ms. Fedelina Mya Graceting, Ms. Felicia Graceting, together with the Youth Ministry Department (Pathfinder). The masters of ceremony were Mrs. Kiah Daun and Ms. Rochelle Angelynn Ak Ronald. The symbolic and opening activities were handled by Mrs. Belinda Kepel, Ms. Erinia Jonathan, and Ms. Velenia Rechi. The sound and technical team consisted of Mr. Jesua Ak Sarim, Mr. Wongli Ak Sarim, and Mr. Ami Ak Temis, while multimedia responsibilities were handled by Mr. Jeremy Endok and Mr. Macry Moore Medam. Documentation and photography were managed by Ms. Marcella Jesua and Mr. Willie Midoi. Live music performances were led by Mr. Macasian Nihei, together with Ms. Vellynie Ronem, Ms. Leona Sheno, and Mrs. Jerica Nihei, with piano accompaniment by Ms. Ezra Rangen. The potbless committee was handled by Mrs. Lynsie Namud, Mrs. Valentine Midoi, and the Women’s Ministry Department. Other responsibilities such as deacon duties, safety and parking, emergency arrangements, chairs and tables preparation, dining hall preparation, and stage coordination involved Mr. Sitek Suut, Mr. Alfonso Sambur, Mr. Nepud Saset, Mr. Mino Bager, Mr. Ket Papoh, Mr. Delvern Sindom, Mr. Jonathan Rani, Mr. Andy Joe Midoi, Mr. Ronem Jamang, Mr. Muller Nudui, Mr. Aboylston Nepud, Mr. Simanis Sindom, Mr. Mayhanzee Medam, Mr. Saad Jamang, Mr. Avra Nangei, and Mr. Amyson Ami.
In conclusion, the Seventh-day Adventist Church Dedication Ceremony of Kampung Emperoh Garung was not only the official opening of a new church building, but also a symbol of unity, dedication, and commitment among God’s people in strengthening their spiritual journey together. The success of this event was made possible through the cooperation, sacrifices, and dedication of everyone involved. It is hoped that this church will continue to serve as a blessed place of worship, a center for spiritual growth, and a source of blessing to the surrounding community as God’s love continues to be shared with future generations.
Seventh-day Adventist Mission Sarawak
