NBVM SCIC 8626 Anniversary e-Magazine

CONTENTS

Message from the 01
Bishop of Penang 02
03
Message from the Parish 04
Priest of NBVM/SCIC

Message from the Assistant
Parish Priest of NBVM/SCIC

Message from the
Editorial Team

A Second Church for 21
the Parish 27
33
New Developments in 38
the Parish

Thank You for Your
Service

The NBVM/SCIC Family

1935: The Founding of a Parish 05
My Church, My Home 11

MESSAGE FROM
BISHOP OF PENANG,
RIGHT REVEREND
DATO' SERI
SEBASTIAN FRANCIS

My Dear People of God, It is so inspiring to see this multilingual and beautiful
community that lives out this thrust so fervently.
“With the Lord, a day is like a During an occasion like this, we cannot but
thousand years, remember all who have served in this community
and a thousand years are like a and those no longer with us which include the laity,
day.” (2 Peter 3:8–9) religious and clergy who have been an instrument of
light in the parish.
It is with great joy and gratitude
that I join Rev Fr Dominic The pandemic has taught the importance of
Santhiyagu and the Catholic strengthening the faith community beginning from
community of Seberang Perai in the the individual, family, BEC and the community at
dual celebration of the 86th and large. I am enlivened to see the vitality of this
26th anniversaries of the Church of community made up of all languages and cultures
the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin including the readiness to welcome the migrant
Mary and Saints Chastan and community. I thank you for your generosity in making
Imbert Church, respectively. this parish a vibrant community of sincere love and
humble service. I am looking forward to the setting
A Catholic community that is up of the new facilities to be utilised for the good of
growing will always remember the the parish and the wider community for the greater
past with gratitude, in order to be glory of God.
more committed in the present and
to move forward with hope and This parish community has given birth to several
confidence, continuing this journey vocations. I pray that this community will continue to
together. As mentioned at the treasure the faith we profess and hand down the
Peninsular Malaysia Pastoral legacy of the Catholic faith to the future generations
Convention IV in 2016, to be a through faith formation and your exemplary devotion
Catholic community that is to God. I hope to see more vocations from this parish
growing, it will need to be: a) in the near future.
Creative b) Inclusive c) Bridge-
building. It is my earnest desire that you emulate the great
example of steadfastness in faith and courage of
Saints Chastan and Imbert as you continue to be
faithful children of the Blessed Virgin Mary, showered
by her unwavering maternal care and intercession.
Continue to be missionary disciples of joy, mercy and
hope!

With Prayers and Blessings,
Rt Rev Sebastian Francis

1

MESSAGE FROM PARISH PRIEST
REVEREND FATHER DOMINIC
SANTHIYAGU

“I planted the seed in your hearts, and As we move forward, let us learn from our
Apollos watered it, but it was God who made past, live in the present with lively faith and
it grow. It’s not important who does the look forward with joyful hope in Christ. We
planting, or who does the watering. What’s must remain faithful to his Word, relevant to
important is that God makes the seed grow.” His calling, vibrant to serve and healthy as
(1 Corinthians 3:6–7) people of our God of Hope. Let us go even
further to celebrate many more
Praise the Lord! Wow, we have the honour of anniversaries. “The Lord has done great
celebrating the 86th and 26th church things for us; We are glad.” (Psalm 126:3)
anniversaries in our parish this year, 2021! It is
truly a celebration of faith in One God, the “Church isn’t where you meet. Church isn’t a
Father, Son and Holy Spirit. All glory and building. Church is what you do. Church is
honour to God alone. who you are. Church is the human
outworking of the person of Jesus Christ. Let
This anniversary is also a time to remember us not just go to Church, let us be the
our forefathers who faithfully lived their faith Church” (Bridget Willard)
in Christ and passed it down to us through
their dedication and service to our parish I love my parish, "My Church, My Home".
community. Every single person who sets his God bless!
or her foot on our parish grounds helps the
parish grow in some way. As St Paul said in 1 Fr Dominic
Corinthians 3:6–7, many have contributed to
the progress of our parish, with God 2
ultimately as the prime-mover. I take this
opportunity to express my heartfelt and
sincere gratitude to all who have served,
those still serving and who will serve. The
parish is truly grateful to you for your
dedication and faithfulness.

This anniversary celebration is a unique and
significant occasion for our parish community
for three reasons:

The construction of the Nativity Pastoral
Centre is completed and will be blessed
and opened soon.
The NBVM Church has undergone
extensive renovation. She will be
rededicated this year, God willing, during
the parish feast day.
Very importantly, the parish community
has remained resilient while also
sacrificing time and money to support the
parish navigate the COVID-19 pandemic.
Kudos!

MESSAGE FROM ASSISTANT PARISH PRIEST
REVEREND FATHER KONSTEND
GNANAPRAGASAM

Happy 86/26 Anniversary, dear NBVM and SCIC
family!

It is indeed such a joy for me to be a part of the
community during this time of great celebrations to
mark 86 years of the Catholic Church’s presence in
Butterworth, Perai and the surrounding areas.

I was posted to the parish in December 2020 as a
deacon and then following my ordination in May 2021,
as the assistant parish priest. Although it has only
been a short time that I have been here, and half of
that time with us being in lockdown, I have had the
opportunity to work with and get to know many of the
parishioners and have seen the spirit of love for Christ
and his Church flourishing here. I believe that it must
be this spirit handed down by the forefathers of this
parish that has sustained the parish in witnessing to
Christ and doing good works through all these years.

On this joyful occasion, it is my prayer that the
Blessed Mother will continue to protect, guide and
inspire all her children of this parish to always live a
life that points to Jesus, that is obedient to His will
and that always seeks the good for others. May the
virtuous lives of our patrons, Saints Chastan and
Imbert, always remind us of the call each one of us
has received to become a saint.

God bless!
Fr Konstend

3

DEO GRATIAS

From left: Brian, Sheila, Karen, Kathlin, Stephen and Ayden

“Let us It is an immense privilege to be The pandemic has challenged us to
remember the entrusted with producing a magazine think of different strategies in creating
past with to commemorate a significant some of the content. Working within a
gratitude, milestone in our parish’s history. And wonderful team, we have all gained
live the what a joy it has been! The months that much from each other and from the
present with we spent researching and developing people we’ve encountered. The
enthusiasm, content has made us feel almost support from our parish priests and the
and look forward personally acquainted with many of the 86/26 celebrations committee has also
to the future names that we had only heard in been critical in completing the
with passing before. magazine. We also thank the many
confidence.” parishioners who have shared with us
- Pope St John Speaking to some parishioners, we their stories and photos.
Paul II discovered wonderful anecdotes about
the various people who have passed While our celebrations may not look
through the doors of our churches. like what was planned and we are
Many stories spoke of the sacrifices and unable to prepare hard copies of the
commitment it has taken to bring the magazine as yet, we are excited to
parish to where it is today. From our share with you a preview of the final
courageous patron saints who died for version through this e-magazine. We
the faith in Korea to the humble hope that you enjoy reading it as much
parishioner who took an extra job to as we did creating it. We also hope that
contribute to the building fund, the rich the stories of the people and events
history of our parish reminds us that that have shaped our parish will be
each one of us is assigned with a talked about in our families, BECs and
unique task of building God’s kingdom. ministries, inspiring us all to keep the
flame of faith burning brightly.
Putting this magazine together has
truly been a memorable experience. Happy 86/26 Anniversary, everyone!
To God be the glory.

The Editorial Team

▪ ▪Editor: Kathlin Ambrose Writers: Sheila Rose & Stephen Chin
▪Design: Brian Baptist Photography: Ayden Cheong & Karen Teh

4

1935

THE FOUNDING OF A PARISH

How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news
Romans 10:15

5

OUR FOUNDING FATHERS

THE MISSIONS ETRANGERES DE PARIS (MEP)

Way back in the 17th century, the first vals MEP
apostolic vicars embarked for Asia in the e Souhait MEP
footsteps of St Francis Xavier, St Matteo Rev Fr Adrien De Rev Fr Jean-Baptist
Ricci and other missionaries to spread the
Catholic faith. These adventurers for God Fast forward to 1935, Fr Souhait
were the true founders of the Paris Foreign commissioned the building of a church. The
Missions who wanted to announce the people of Butterworth now had a Catholic
Gospel to the people of Asia. church, made of timber and surrounded by
lush greenery to call their own! In 1941 the
Known as the MEP Fathers, the first of the Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin
missionary priests was present in Penang Mary was blessed by Fr Devals.
since 1786, just a few months after the
foundation of George Town by Captain
Francis Light.

More than a century later, seeing a need for
spiritual and educational facilities for the
people on the mainland of Penang, Rev Fr
Adrien Devals MEP bought a piece of land
for the first Assumption School in 1930. The
premises were used by Rev Fr Jean-
Baptiste Souhait MEP, parish priest of the
then Cathedral of the Assumption for regular
Masses, with him crossing over by boat to
serve the community here.

During the pre-war years, local children
would occupy the few classrooms during the
week while every third Sunday of the month,
priests from College General would
celebrate Mass here.

"The MEP Fathers brought the faith to our country and they planted the local Church on
firm ground by spreading the faith among locals, forming local priests and leaving their
properties and lands for the local Church to become self-reliant." Rev Fr Murphy Pakiam

6

THE EARLY DAYS

Later, towards the end of the war, a priest would cycle from Bukit Mertajam to celebrate Mass.
Some parishioners even had to use sampan to cross the Perai River to reach Ujung Batu and
then walk up to church. All in their Sunday best!
Several priests, including Rev Fr Arokianathan, Rev Fr Joachim Teng and Rev Fr Paul Wong
took care of the needs of the different language communities.
In 1945, the parish received its first resident priest, Rev Fr Louis Ashness. He implemented
some renovations to the church building and also built a shrine to Our Lady near the entrance
of the church.
Later in 1947, assistant parish priest Rev Fr LS Norris
together with the determined people of Perai began
collecting funds for a boys’ school.
Joined by Fr Ashness, the building of the Assumption
School on Jalan Assumption was completed and
officially blessed in 1949.
A loft was built in the church for the choir by Fr Norris.

"The choir was made up of powerful male voices,
well-trained to chant Latin hymns and Masses.
The organist on Sunday was regular in
attendance and though blind, he skillfully played
the old-fashioned harmonium. The choir was
positioned on the ground floor of the church but
they preferred to sing from the balcony, so they
coaxed me to build them a choir loft. This was
done in quick time with the choir members
collecting the funds and supervising the erection
of the balcony.” Rev Fr LS Norris

7

A NEW CHURCH IS NEEDED

GROWING COMMUNITY THE FOUNDATION IS LAID

In 1959, the parish welcomed Rev Fr Plans for a new church were afoot and on 23rd July
George Belleville as resident priest. 1967, Rev Mgr IJ Aloysius, the Vicar General of
From 500 in the 1930s, the parish Penang laid the foundation stone for the new church.
continued to grow to over 2,000
parishioners and the existing church
could no longer accommodate the
increasing congregation.

“Let us live in such a way that one day all of us may be reunited in the House of our
Heavenly Father,” Rev Fr George Belleville

THE NEW CHURCH

The new church as it now stands was completed in 1969 and was blessed by Rt Rev Gregory Yong,
Bishop of Penang.

8

MORE GROWTH & CHANGES

Over the past 86 years, the church has taken on numerous looks as our parish priests initiated
various upgrades, restorations and refurbishments, both major and minor to the church building
and its surroundings.
When Rev Fr Charles Chin served as parish
priest in the mid ‘70s, the Annunciation Room
was built. This room went on to serve as a
much needed venue for countless meetings,
formation sessions, catechism classes and
various activities in the many years ahead.
In 1979, Rev Fr Alexander Edwin initiated
works to change the flooring of the altar to the
present marbled floor. The tabernacle was also
moved to the Blessed Sacrament room.

In 1985, during the tenure of Rev Fr Pathinathan, the parish celebrated her Golden Jubilee
Rev Fr Francis Xavier went on to upgrade the shrine to Our Lady in 1988, which was blessed
by the Bishop of Penang, Rt Rev Antony Selvanayagam.

9

IN RECENT YEARS

In 2004, the old parish house fondly In 2010, the parish celebrated her Diamond Jubilee.
called the ‘White House’ by Parish priest, Rev Fr Victor Louis saw to various major
parishioners was demolished due to upgrading works in the church and its surroundings.
severe termite infestation.

Rev Fr Vincent Paul purchased
container cabins for use as catechism
classrooms and meeting rooms. The
Blessed Sacrament room was
renovated with marble flooring and
walls, and the portrait of Mother Mary
as the first Tabernacle was installed.
The main church and parish house
were painted and the old church
restored for use as a multipurpose hall.

In 2005, Rev Fr Edmund Woon
introduced LCD projectors at Masses,
to replace the overhead projectors and
transparencies. Later, Rev Fr Nelson
Chitty set up a multimedia room at the
back of the church. Rev Fr Francis
Andrew set aside a little corner
dedicated to Our Mother of Perpetual
Help inside the church.

“No one actually starts from scratch, we always
build upon what others have already set down,”
Rev Fr Victor Louis

References: 1. NBVM Diamond Jubilee Souvenir Magazine, 2010. 2. NBVM Golden Jubilee Souvenir Magazine, 1985. 3. Missions
Etrangeres de Paris (website). 4. Maureen KC Chew. History of the Catholic Church in the Diocese of Penang, 2016. 5. Embassy
of France in Malaysia. City Guide: French Heritage Trail – Penang Malaysia. 6. Anil Netto. The Old Wooden Church, 2011.

10

My Church,
My Home

“If we pray, we will believe;
If we believe, we will love;
If we love, we will serve.”
St Teresa of Calcutta

11

AWWREHEO Our vision

To be a Christ-centred magnetic
community of peace, love and hope

Our mission

Fostering unity to create a sense of
belonging
Being a welcoming parish
Being rooted in the Word of God
Keeping the family united and
creating a family-like church
environment
Being a participatory community that
enthusiastically comes forward to
participate and serve

We are around We make up all ages and ply all kinds of
2,000 individuals from trades. We are tiny tots and students,
about 500 families wage-earners, homemakers and business
owners and some, in our golden years.

We are divided into
33 BECs, from the

northernmost town of
Kepala Batas all the

way to Perai

TNOBGVEMTH&ERSCWICE AFARME ITLHYE

Two churches, one parish centred on Christ Most of us form the English-speaking (47%)
Cross - Christ as the Head community, with sizeable Tamil (35%) and
Blue - The Blessed Virgin Mary Mandarin (18%) speakers and a small but
Red - Blood of the martyrs strong group speaking Bahasa
Incomplete circle - Openness, creativity and Malaysia/Indonesia.
growth
Dove - Power of the Holy Spirit and peace that We are involved in more than 25 ministries in
flows in and through the community on a mission the church, serving the needs of the
to share Christ’s love and peace parishioners and the surrounding
communities.

12

PARISH STAFF

From left: Jane, Joseph, Gayarachmi, Fr Konstend, Joanne, Fr “FOR WE ARE HIS
Dominic, Angeline, Santhanasamy and Philomena WORKMANSHIP,

Parish Priest: Rev Fr Dominic Santhiyagu CREATED IN
Assistant Parish Rev Fr Konstend CHRIST JESUS FOR
Priest: Gnanapragasam
Clerks: Angeline Sinappan & GOOD WORKS,
Joanne Robert Charles WHICH GOD
Accounts Clerks: Jane Chan & Lim Chin Chin PREPARED
Administrator Joseph Lourdes BEFOREHAND,
Sacristan Philomena Jacob
Gardener Santhanasamy Michael THAT WE SHOULD
Housekeeper Gayarachmi Kuppusamy WALK IN THEM.”

EPHESIANS 2:10

13

Message from Parish Pastoral
Council Chairman,
Mr Stephen Chin

Greetings of peace and joy!

I am very honoured to be invited to pen a few words for this
publication which was initially meant for the grand 85/25 twin
celebration of NBVM and SCIC anniversaries in 2020.

Although the COVID-19 pandemic has forced the organising
committee to postpone the celebrations, it has not dampened
the spirit of resilience of our parishioners who have come
together in many ways to keep the parish alive and safe
during this challenging period.

Despite being a third generation NBVM/SCIC parishioner, I
have limited knowledge of the origins and history of our
church as well as the people who have contributed
tremendously to the growth of our beloved parish over the
past 86 years.

Therefore, when the idea for this commemorative magazine
was mooted, I was very excited to be invited to be part of the
editorial team as we embarked on a journey to capture the life
and essence of our community.

It is indeed very inspiring to revisit the stories and thoughts
behind our past parish priests, lay leaders and also ordinary
parishioners in their journey to build the community here in
Butterworth. Some of these stories will be shared in this book.

I truly hope that these stories will help us grow in faith and
unity, to embrace the vibrancy and enthusiasm of our
forefathers and to encourage young leaders to come forward
to serve.

Lastly, I would also like to take the opportunity to
congratulate and thank all present and past parish priests,
various ministries, organisations, BECs and committees who
have made it possible to get to where we are now and make
this publication a reality.

God bless!

Stephen Chin

14

Top row: Joseph, Jacqueline, Elizabeth, Alfred •
Middle row: Aynis, Mangalam • Front: Daniel

PARISH PASTORAL COUNCIL

Parish Priest & Advisor : Rev Fr Dominic
Santhiyagu
Assistant Parish Priest & Rev Fr Konstend
Advisor : Gnanapragasam
Chairperson :
Vice Chairperson 1 & Tamil .
Apostolate Representative :
Vice Chairperson 2 : Stephen Chin
Secretary : Alfred Jonathan
Chinese Apostolate
Representative : Joseph Lim
BEC Coordinator : Emily Jessica
Liturgy Team Elizabeth Ng
Representative:
Vernon Fernandez
Jacqueline Lourdes

From left: Fr Konstend, Nicholas, Vernon and Mavis Catechetical Team Francis Kow
From left: Stephen, Fr Dominic, Jessica and Francis Representative :
Family Life Ministry Regina Caeli
Representative :
Youth Representative : Nicholas Ooi
Parish Human Angeline Pragasam
Development Committee
Representative : Anitha John
Zone Representatives: Aynis Sebastian
Daniel William
Appointee : Margaret Robert
Michelle Mangalam
Mavis Baptist

15

PARISH
FINANCE
COMMITTEE

From top, left: Brian, Rufina, Christina, Paul, Michael and Fr Dominic

Parish Priest & Advisor :

Rev Fr Dominic Santhiyagu

Chairperson:

Michael Saw

Members:

Brian Baptist
Christina Yanam

Christine Anu
Paul Raj

Rufina Ong

16

Message from 86/26
Anniversary Celebration
Organising Committee
Chairperson,
Madam Mavis Catherine Baptist

On behalf of the 86/26 anniversary celebration organising
committee, I praise and thank God for the success of this
double celebration despite the unexpected postponement
and restrictions imposed by the movement control order.

As we celebrate our faith journey here in the parish of
NBVM/SCIC for the past 86/26 years, we remember our
forefathers, parish leaders and former priests and religious
who had sown the seeds of our faith in Butterworth. We give
thanks to our Blessed Virgin Mary, patron of our parish
together with Saints Chastan and Imbert who have been our
constant guide and source of inspiration for our congregation.

The renovations of the NBVM Church would not have been
possible without the encouragement, confidence and efforts
of Rev Fr Dominic, Rev Fr Louis Loi and Rev Fr Konstend. I
would like to thank them and the whole community for the
moral support and financial contribution, and most of all
those who have prayed so fervently for the success of our
projects. We are truly proud of our past achievements and
excited to continue the vision of our founding fathers in our
new Nativity Centre and refurbished church. Together let us
invoke our patron saints and the Holy Spirit to continue to
guide and inspire us, especially our younger generation, to
fully utilise the facilities provided for their spiritual growth.

Finally, to the organising committee members and all our
parishioners who have had to face numerous challenges and
inconvenience, I wish to convey my sincere appreciation for
your patience and support and pray that all of you be blessed
continually.

Mavis Catherine Baptist

17

LAUNCH OF 85/25 TWIN
CELEBRATION

CELEBRATION OF OUR FAITH JOURNEY

After the morning Mass on the Feast of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary on 8th
September 2019, parishioners gathered at the little green patch just outside the
NBVM Church to mark the launch of the 85/25 NBVM/SCIC Anniversary Twin
Celebration.
“Today we witness a historical moment. Many who began this journey are not here to
witness it. We are indeed blessed to be here today to celebrate this event with great
joy. We thank God for this blessing.” ~ Rev Fr Dominic Santhiyagu
It was to be a whole year of journeying as one family through activities of worship,
service, pilgrimage, games and many more, culminating with the grand celebration
of the jubilee year for the two churches.

18

Let them thank
the Lord for his
steadfast love, for

his wonderful
works to

humankind.
Psalm 107:21

Apostolic blessing from Pope Francis

85/25 N B V M & S C I C
8TH SEPT 2020
20TH SEPT 2020
Celebration of our faith journey

It was far from the grand celebrations
that were planned, yet the pandemic
could not steal our joy and enthusiasm
in commemorating this most
wonderful milestone.

A time of giving thanks for His
abundant blessings upon our parish

A time of reflecting on our call to
witness to Christ

A time of rejoicing as one family

A time of remembering the Lord's
faithfulness to His people

A time of recommitting our steadfast
love and service to God and His
Church

Triduum Masses with visiting priests,
including sons of the parish celebrating the
liturgies.

19

86/26 ANNIVERSARY
CELEBRATION

ORGANISING COMMITTEE

From left: Janet, Anthony, Alex,
Jacqueline, Francis and Joseph

From left: Sara, Mavis,
May and Christina

Chairperson: Members:

Mavis Baptist Anthony Francis

Vice Chairperson: Christina Chin

Alex Ambrose Francis Heng

Secretary: Jacqueline Lourdes

Janet James Joseph Lim

May Ho

Sara Kow

20

A SECOND CHURCH
FOR THE PARISH

“The blood of the
martyrs is the seed

of the Church.”
Tertullian

21

Korean martyrs as depicted by a painter

HIBteogAwlaln Taking a sampan was still the A committee looked into the
fastest way to travel from running of the chapel. Its
Back in the 1930s and '40s, the Butterworth to Perai during those members included Mr CAD
Perai folk had to cross the river by days prior to the existence of the Oliveiro, Mr FC Pereira and Mr BS
sampan and walk through the Tunku Abdul Rahman Bridge; Nathan.
kampung to NBVM Church for and this was how the priest, Rev
Sunday Mass. Fr George Belleville commuted. As the number of Catholics began
to increase in the Perai area, it was
When Mr BS Nathan came to In the 1970s, Fr Belleville was thought prudent to earmark a
reside in Perai, he was instrumental posted a second time to piece of land for the purpose of
in arranging for a priest from Butterworth. He saw to the building a church. Fr Belleville
Butterworth to celebrate Mass purchase of a corner house in began looking for a piece of land
monthly, first at the Perai Tamil Perai and turned it into a chapel, and having found one, convinced
School and subsequently at the which he named after St Martin the Diocesan authorities to
Perai Railway Club. de Porres. The saint was chosen purchase the land.
as the patron as he was a worker
for the poor. In June 1974, a piece of land
measuring more than 87,000
Later, the adjacent house was square feet was purchased by the
purchased and the chapel Bishop of Penang, Rt Rev Gregory
expanded. Masses were Yong. However, it was a water-
celebrated regularly and come logged and mosquito infested
November 8th every year, the area, therefore in March and May
community would 1981, the Church was asked to fill
commemorate the feast of St the land.
Martin de Porres.

22

In February 1982, Rev Fr Alexander TTahkeeNseSwhaCpheurch
Edwin took the initial step of
discussing the building of a chapel
cum multipurpose hall with the
Diocesan Financial Commission. He
submitted an initial sketch to the
Commission for consideration and
sought an architect to draw up the
necessary plans.

In September 1983, the inaugural
meeting of the Chai Leng Park
Chapel Planning Committee was
held under the chairmanship of Mr
Henry Too and Major H Carlos as
secretary. The committee decided
to start a building fund.

Following several years of
meetings, deliberations and
planning, fund raising was initiated
in October 1988 and plans for the
project were submitted to the
Municipal Council in January 1989.
Approval was received in July 1990.

The complex was to have a church with a 600 seating capacity, parish house, caretaker’s quarters, a hall
accommodating three badminton courts and a three-storey hostel.

In 1990, Rev Fr Murphy Pakiam was made parish priest of Butterworth. He was instrumental in seeing to the
completion of the building project.

Each family in the parish contributed one month’s wages for the
building of SCIC. The MEP Society contributed to almost the whole
cost of the hostel block. Food and fun fairs, concerts and dinners
were organised to raise funds.

On November 8, 1992, Bishop of Penang, Rt Rev Antony Selvanayagam officiated at a ceremony to lay the
foundation stone. The earthworks and piling started in early 1993 and the building was completed in June 1994.
SCIC was officially declared open and blessed by Bishop Antony on October 7, 1995.

“I remember a young man who took up a third job to make ends meet for his family so that he could keep
up his commitment of one month’s wage for the church building fund. Another family, where both
husband and wife each gave one month’s salary for this project, although they were undergoing a trying
spell in their lives.” Rev Fr Murphy Pakiam

23

SPOaauitnrrtosn Saint Laurent Imbert

Saint Jacques Chastan St Laurent Imbert

St Jacques Chastan Laurent Joseph-Marius Imbert was born on March 23,
1796 in Marignane, France. He studied at a Catholic
Jacques-Honoré Chastan was born on October 7, school at Aix en Provence and then for a few years at
1803 in Marcoux, France. He studied at the the major seminary of the same archdiocese. In
preparatory seminary in Embrun, finished at the October 1818, he joined the MEP Society seminary and
major seminary in Digne and was ordained a priest was ordained a priest in December 1819. He left for
in December 1826. He then joined the MEP Society Sichuan, China in March 1920, but spent several years
and left for Macau in April 1827. In January 1828, he in Mauritius, Singapore, Siam and Penang en route. Fr
was appointed professor at College General and Imbert is credited for bringing Catholicism to
subsequently helped in the parish of Pulau Tikus. He Singapore and is considered the first Catholic priest to
was gifted with languages and spoke Chinese very celebrate the Eucharist in modern Singapore
well. Having volunteered to go to the newly opened sometime in 1820.
Korean Mission, he returned to Macau in May 1833.
On his way to Siam, Fr Imbert arrived in Penang in
1821 and was asked to stay on to replace the only
professor in College General who was seriously ill.
Subsequently he travelled to Macau and Tonkin and
finally in March 1825, he arrived in Sichuan, where he
worked as a missionary for 12 years, establishing a
seminary in Moupin. Having heard that the MEP had
offered to send missionaries to Korea, he volunteered
to go there. He was appointed as Vicar Apostolic to
Korea and ordained a bishop in May 1837.

“Let the new church stand as a memorial to the missionary heroism of the two martyrs. But let it also
be for all of us a permanent reminder of the missionary nature of the Church and of the duty we have
to be genuine witnesses of God’s love for every human being.” Rev Fr Raymond Rossignol MEP,
Superior General of MEP Society (1992–1998)

24

Martyrdom in Korea

Travelling across the whole of China, Fr Chastan and
Bishop Imbert tried to enter Korea from Manchuria.
Christians in Korea were being persecuted and it was
forbidden under the death penalty to bring in a priest.
Finally in December 1836, Fr Chastan managed to enter
Korea and soon was in Seoul learning the Korean
language. A year later, Bishop Imbert joined him. With
great difficulties they carried on their pastoral work and
prepared young men for priesthood.

During the fierce persecution of 1839, in order to spare
his flock from further torment, Bishop Imbert
surrendered himself to the authorities. Refusing to
renounce God and His teachings, he was tortured and
put in jail. Hoping to bring an end to the persecution, Fr
Chastan followed the advice of Bishop Imbert and
surrendered to the police.

“The Good Shepherd is the one who lays down
his life for his sheep.”

Letter of Rt Rev Bishop Laurent Imbert to Rev
Fr Jacques Chastan and Rev Fr Pierre-Philibert

Maubant

On September 21, 1839, Bishop Laurent Imbert and Fr
Jacques Chastan were beheaded near Seoul together
with other Korean martyrs. They were all beatified in July
1925 and canonised by Pope John Paul II in May 1984.

“Since we are happy to obtain such beautiful
palm (of martyrdom) which is said to be sweet
to the taste, shady for resting and honourable
for triumph, please offer many thanksgivings
to the good Lord and do not fail to send help to

our dear converts who are about to find
themselves like orphans once again.”

Farewell letter of Rev Fr Jacques Chastan to
members of MEP Society, Korea,
September 6, 1839

25

One of the first major events at SCIC, Chrism Mass in 1996.

A Church Alive

Painting and upgrading works done in recent years.

Throughout its 26 years of existence, SCIC has hosted numerous Masses, formations, camps, receptions and
countless other events. Between 2019 and 2021, with major construction works for NBVM Church and the
Nativity Pastoral Centre going on, SCIC became the main venue for all Masses and parish events.

Parish priest Rev Fr Dominic
Santhiyagu and his assistants also had
to move to the parish house in SCIC
during the construction period. What
started as a hobby during the first MCO
is now a thriving garden. Every once in
a while, parishioners are surprised with
gifts of lady’s fingers, cucumbers and
other vegetables fresh from Fr Dom’s
garden.

References: 1. Church of Sts Chastan & Imbert Perai Official Opening Souvenir Magazine, 1995. 2. NBVM Diamond Jubilee Souvenir
Magazine, 2010. 3. Missions Etrangeres de Paris (website). 4. NBVM & SCIC Parishioners.

26

NEW DEVELOPMENTS
IN THE PARISH

In Him the whole building is joined together and
rises to become a holy temple in the Lord.

And in Him you too are being built together to
become a dwelling in which God lives by His Spirit.

Ephesians 2:21–22
27

A GLORIOUS
SANCTUARY

Our beloved NBVM Church has received a
makeover. A breathtaking altar, colourful
glass panels and dazzling lights.
Come, let us worship!

28

29

Nativity Pastoral Centre

The Nativity Pastoral Centre Auditorium

Surroundings Multipurpose hall

Classrooms and meeting rooms Part of the café

After many years of waiting, we now have a beautiful, multifunctional
pastoral centre that will be the heart of our parish life.

30

Parish office The side of the building

Wet kitchen at the café Entrance to the parish office

31

NATIVITY PASTORAL CENTRE
BUILDING COMMITTEE

Parish Priest & Advisor : Rev Fr Dominic Members : Agnes Lee
Santhiyagu Alvin Baptist
Lawrence Boudville
Chairperson : Tony Edward Mavis Baptist
Paul Lim
Fundraising Peter Pang & Paul Raj
Co-chairpersons : Gerald Anand Stephen Chin
Tommy Vincent
Technical Head : Terrence Theseira

From left: Alvin, Stephen, Terrence, Fr Dominic,
Tony and Mavis

From left: Gerald, Paul Raj, Lawrence, Paul Lim,
Peter and Agnes

32

TYHOAUNRKSYEORUVIFCOER

Well done good and faithful servant.
Matthew 25:21

33

NATIVITY EXEMPLARY
SERVICE AWARD

In conjunction with the NBVM/SCIC 86/26 anniversary, the parish presents the
Nativity Exemplary Service Award to 10 parishioners who have rendered
outstanding service and contributions to the parish community.
The editorial team spoke with them to hear their thoughts about receiving this
honour from the parish.

Cathrine Mary Stephen

Awarded in recognition of her service as a
Communion minister and liturgical team member.
Mdm Cathrine is a simple, low-profile personality
who always supports BEC and parish activities. She
has also gifted to the Church, her son, Rev Fr
Andrew Manickam.
“It is indeed a surprise and I am humbled to have been
recognised for my contributions to the parish. I did it for
the Lord. I am overwhelmed and delighted to receive this
award."

Joseph Chin Son Chai

Awarded in recognition of his long service in the
Chinese Apostolate and contributions as a PPC

member and adviser to the St Joseph’s Dying Aid
League. Mr Joseph is also remembered fondly for

preparing and serving drinks after catechism
classes, feast days and parish events. He has been a

generous financial contributor to various parish
activities and projects, and students in need.

“It is through the grace of God that I got involved in the
parish. Every moment has been a memorable one and the

parish has become my extended family. I have
experienced great joy and blessings being part of this

parish,

I am humbled to receive this award and thank God and
the parish for recognising my contributions. I pray and

hope that the parish will continue to grow in love.”

34

Francis Heng

Awarded in recognition of his contributions as PPC
Vice Chairman, Legion of Mary member, Communion
minister, lector and commentator, RCIA facilitator
and CCR core team member. Mr Francis also served
in the liturgical team and the finance committee. He
was a parish representative in the CCR Northern
District Council and editor of Bishop Antony
Selvanayagam’s 25th Sacerdotal Anniversary souvenir
booklet.
“It is a privilege to have served the Lord and the greatest
reward is not material gain or personal glory, but the joy of
helping out in the church. All glory and praise to God. I am
incredibly honoured and glad to receive the award. It is a
joy beyond compare.”

Arlando Arrikiam

Awarded in recognition of his contributions as a
Legion of Mary and SVDP member, BEC leader,

Communion minister and the first SCIC
Administrator. Mr Arlando has also gifted his son,

Rev Fr Martin Andrews to the Church.
“I have fond memories of the Perai Catholic community,
which worked together to hold Sunday Masses even before
the church was built. Fr Belleville had inspired me on the
spiritual journey, and it is a blessing that my son answered
the call to priesthood. I praise God that I was chosen by
Bishop Murphy Pakiam for the ASIPA (ASEAN Integral
Pastoral Approach) training so that I could help build my

community in the parish and the diocese.
I am delighted and feel privileged to receive the award in
appreciation of my dedicated service to the parish. With all
humility, I thank God for His abundant blessings and for
journeying with me and guiding me throughout my service.”

Gnanambal Naigham

Awarded in recognition of her contributions as a
parish Tamil choir member, catechism teacher, BEC
leader, messenger and Rosary coordinator. Mdm
Gnanambal has also given the Church the gift of her
grandson, Friar Jason Raj OFMCap.
“I have served for more than 70 years - an unconditional
gift from our Blessed Virgin Mary. I still remember when Fr
Belleville blessed and advised me to continue serving. I felt
on top of the world, when I inspired my grandson to join
the OFM. This parish has witnessed my joys and sorrows
and I feel honoured to be recognised.
It is an honour to receive the award and one of the happiest
moments of my life. I would like to share it with my family
and friends.”

35 39

Anna Ong Ah Hua

Awarded in recognition of her service for more than
30 years in the Women’s League. Mdm Anna also
sponsors all flowers for the altars of both NBVM and
SCIC churches to date, and she herself arranges the
flowers every week with the help of other volunteers.
She is always willing to contribute financially to
various church activities and has been a generous
contributor to the Nativity Centre construction.
“I feel very happy and blessed to be able to contribute to the
parish by donating and arranging flowers for so many
years. I don’t feel tired as I’m doing it willingly for the love
of God and Mother Mary. I thank God for the bountiful
blessings upon me and my family, and for giving me good
health so that I can continue serving.”

Gabriel Lee

Awarded in recognition of his contributions as PPC
chairman, Communion minister, RCIA facilitator, and

catechism teacher. Mr Gabriel founded the NBVM
CCR team and has been leading the ministry ever
since. He is a knowledgeable spiritual adviser and a
humble individual who is dedicated and committed to

carrying out his responsibilities.
“I am humbled because through the grace of God I was able
to serve Him and the parish through many challenging and

difficult periods in my life. All glory and praise to God. It
gives me great joy to know that all the little things that I

have done for my family, parish, friends and the
Charismatic Renewal are recognised and appreciated.”

Anthonysamy Selvanaikam

Awarded in recognition of his contributions as a
SCIC Building Committee member, Communion
minister and PPC member.
“Looking back, I find it hard to believe I was so involved. I
cherish the memories and friendships formed through my
involvement in the Tamil Charismatic, Building
Committee, Parish Maintenance and Communion
Ministry. I thank God for humble shepherds (Bishop
Murphy Pakiam and Fr Francis Xavier) who were firm yet
gentle, moved close to the parishioners and inspired us.
I am very happy to receive this award and would like to
share it with fellow committee members who have served
alongside me in all of these ministries.”

36 40

Anna Lim Tai Thai (Ah Koo)

Awarded in recognition of her long-term service as
a catechist for the Mandarin speaking parishioners.
Mdm Anna or Ah Koo as she is affectionately
known has served under 12 different parish priests.
She has a pleasant personality and is well-liked by
everyone in the parish.
“My Church, My Home
I thank God for calling me to serve in the Butterworth
parish for 30 years. During these times, I’ve always been
working in the direction guided by the Church and the
parish priest. I am grateful to the parishioners for their
unwavering support and cooperation, which enabled me
to complete all of my tasks smoothly.
I truly believe that to build the Church is to build the
Kingdom of God based on the beatitudes of the Gospel.
In this big family, the weak will be protected and cared
for, the lost will not be abandoned; in this place, one can
receive healing, one will experience love; in this place,
hope can be seen, blessings can be found.
My Church, My Home, a place to give my life.
Let us continue our good efforts.”

William Gomez

Awarded in recognition of his contributions as a
lector and commentator, Communion minister and

BEC leader.
“I thank God for this recognition of my contributions to

the parish over the years. It was a faith filled journey
with cooperation from leaders who were always ready to
help. I am grateful to all the parish priests who guided us

in making the parish vibrant and united in love, and I
treasure all the memories in my heart.

It is a pleasant surprise to receive this award from the
parish. I accept it with great humility, in accordance
with God’s will. My gratitude to Fr Dominic, Fr Louis
Loi and the committee for remembering me and giving

me this award.”

OUR HEARTFELT CONGRATULATIONS AND GRATITUDE TO THESE WONDERFUL SERVANTS OF GOD WHO HAVE
GENEROUSLY GIVEN THEIR TIME AND ENERGY FOR THE BUILDING OF GOD’S KINGDOM.
WE TIP OUR HATS TO YOU!
37

THE NBVM/SCIC
FAMILY

“Each of us is the result of a thought of God.
Each of us is willed. Each of us is loved.
Each of us is necessary.”
Pope Benedict XVI

38

Join di paroki NBVM/SCIC adalah sesuatu yang sangat saya syukuri. Karena bergabung
dengan paroki ini seperti mendapatkan keluarga yang baharu. Bukan sahaja kekawan
migran tetapi juga umat setempat yang sangat ramah, tidak membezakan antara satu
dengan yang lain, tetapi saling menerima, menyokong, bahkan saling membantu. Sampai
saat ini paroki NBVM/SCIC sudah seperti rumah buat saya. Saya sangat berterima kasih
karena diterima dengan baik di paroki ini.

Bersama komuniti migran, kami mengucapkan selamat ulangtahun 86/26 untuk paroki
NBVM/SCIC. Semoga menjadi paroki yang selalu siap melayani umat Tuhan, berjaya
membantu umat dalam pertumbuhan iman dan menjadi rumah untuk anak-anak Kristus.

Tuhan berkati selalu. Amin.

Mastarina Silaban & kawan-kawan

Congratulations and best wishes to
NBVM/SCIC on its 86/26 anniversaries. Around
the time SCIC was completed in 1995, I had
the privilege to park on its grounds while
looking for a nearby place to have lunch with
my family. It was as though God was calling
and inviting us to church. I never thought that
10 years later in 2005, my family and I would
join the parish through the RCIA pathway. May
Mary and our patron saints continue to
intercede for us and lead us to our Lord Jesus
Christ in our faith journey.

Raymond Loo & family

39

Blessed 86/26 Anniversary. We are blessed to
be part of this parish and witness all the
growth and transformations in our two
churches.

Derrick Veerasingam & family

We wish to thank God for all that he has given
us to work together to make our church a
house of prayer, a house of healing and above
all, a house of God. Let’s continue to
strategically use our church to spread His
Kingdom. We feel blessed and we wish
everyone a blessed 86/26 anniversary!

Shane Evans David & family

We look back and praise God for what we
have achieved as a church.
Happy Anniversary, NBVM/SCIC Church!
May our love for each other keep growing as a
branch on the vine of God's love. God bless
our parish ❤

Damian Okoh

Praise be to God for the 86th and 26th
anniversaries of our churches. Keep walking
with your King and my King, your God and my
God. Congratulations on the fruit of our hard
work for Jesus Christ.

Jacko Bagak & family

40

These are the 3rd and 4th generations of the
Baptists, part of it. Since great grandpa Alfred’s
transfer to Butterworth in the '60s to our grandpa
Percy and now us, every generation has been
parishioners of NBVM.

Our parents received their sacraments in this
church and I was told they even met each other
here too! My brother and I have also been
baptised here and we can't wait to receive our
next sacrament from the Church.

We are really excited to know that NBVM and
SCIC are celebrating their 86th and 26th
anniversaries this year and to be part of it. We
hope to continue the legacy of being
parishioners of NBVM/SCIC for many more
generations to come too.

We wish everyone a happy anniversary and most
of all, we hope everyone is safe and well, and
that we are able to attend Mass in church soon.

❤ Hayley & Russell Baptist together with
dad Alvin & mum Justina

It is indeed joyful to witness this
amazing celebration of 86/26 years of
the establishment of NBVM/SCIC.
Sincere appreciation to all the
wonderful and visionary past and
present priests, leaders and
parishioners who have made
NBVM/SCIC what it is today.

We take great pride in being part of
NBVM/SCIC throughout these years.
May God in His infinite mercy and
grace, shower us with His blessings.

Happy 86/26 Anniversary, NBVM/SCIC!

Henry William & family

41

GIN MARYOF THE BLESSED VIR
SAIN
To God be the Glory NATIVITY1935 - 2021
Copyright © 2021 BERT
Church of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary & 1995 - 2021
Church of Saints Chastan and Imbert
Seberang Perai, Penang TS CHASTAN AND IM

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in
any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying,
recording or otherwise without the prior permission of the copyright
owner.