By Evelyn Jock
SANDAKAN – The Cathedral of St Mary marked a heartfelt farewell to Sr Martina James, FSIC, and warmly welcomed Sr Rose Ginibun, FSIC, during a potluck fellowship dinner on Jan 5. The event brought together parishioners, BECs, and communities to express their gratitude for Sr Martina’s years of service and to embrace Sr Rose as she steps into her new role.
Sr Rose, a native of Kampung Kopimpinan, Papar, is inspired by Psalm 119:104, “Your word is a lamp to my feet, a light for my path,” and views her arrival in the Diocese of Sandakan as an opportunity to witness to the Gospel of Christ. The third of five children, Sr Rose was raised in a family with a strong religious background and received her Sacraments at the Church of the Holy Rosary in Limbahau. She pursued a diploma in computer studies before working in a finance company for four years. Eventually, she answered God’s call and entered the Franciscan Sisters of the Immaculate Conception (FSIC) in 1998. Sr Rose took her first vows in 2001 and perpetual vows in 2006.
Throughout her religious journey, Sr Rose served in various pastoral roles, including at the Church of St Theresa, Kota Marudu, San Damiano Hostel Kiulu, and Bondulu Children’s Home, Tambunan. She encourages those interested in religious life to seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance and embrace their vocation with courage and commitment. With a passion for music, Sr Rose enjoys playing the guitar and ukulele, finding comfort and connection with God through music.
Sr Martina James, who has served in the parish for the past nine years, bids farewell as she is assigned to Tuaran parish. A native of Munibbah, Keningau, Sr Martina has dedicated 21 years to religious life. Du-ring her time in Sandakan, she served in the Catechetical Ministry, as an Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion and with the BECs.
Sr Martina expressed her gratitude for the warm support from the parishioners and shared her appreciation for the lessons learnt from the diverse cultures and traditions in Sandakan. She encouraged others to respond bravely to God’s call and be responsible for their decisions.
Both sisters leave a lasting impact on the parish community, and the faithful look forward to Sr Rose’s continued contributions to the religious mission. – Herald Malaysia
