KUCHING: A crowd of 1,500 people gathered for the Joint Christmas Service 2025 organised by the Association of Churches in Sarawak (ACS) on Thursday (Dec 18), highlighting the strong spirit of unity among Christian denominations in the state.
The service, held at the ACS building and hosted this year by the Anglican Church, brought together congregants from diverse backgrounds for a combined celebration themed ‘Emmanuel, God With Us’.
Among the dignitaries present were Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas and Datuk Amar Dr Sim Kui Hian, Works Minister Datuk Seri Alexander Nanta Linggi, and Unit For Other Religion (UNIFOR) director Datuk Georgina Apau.
The large turnout reflected continued public support for the annual joint service, which aims to foster unity and fellowship among churches while reinforcing the Christian message of hope, peace and togetherness.
The evening began with a procession featuring heads of churches and scripture readers carrying Christmas candles, accompanied by Boys’ Brigade drummers, bagpipers and Sunday School children. This was followed by the lighting of Christmas candles by church leaders, symbolising Christ as the Light of the World.
In his welcoming address, Venerable Joseph Dusit, Archdeacon of Lower Southern Sarawak Archdeaconry, said the gathering demonstrated that despite denominational differences, Christians in Sarawak stood as one family in Christ.
He said the shared celebration was a powerful testament to togetherness and the boundless love of God that bridges all differences, adding that the service invited believers to reflect on the true meaning of Christmas beyond festivities.
The service featured scripture readings and prayers in Bahasa Malaysia, English, Mandarin, Iban and Biatah, reflecting Sarawak’s cultural and linguistic diversity. Hymns and carols such as O Come, All Ye Faithful, Silent Night and Joy to the World were sung by the congregation and choir.
The sermon, ‘Emmanuel, God With Us’, was delivered by Rev Datuk Danald Jute, who is also Bishop of the Anglican Diocese of Kuching and chairman of ACS. He highlighted the message of God’s presence with humanity, offering assurance and hope amid challenges.
A children’s presentation titled ‘God With Us’ by Sunday School pupils added a family-oriented element to the service.
The joint service concluded with a benediction led by Archbishop Datuk Dr Simon Poh, calling on believers to carry God’s presence into their daily lives and to be bearers of hope, compassion and mercy.
The annual Christmas service continues to serve as a key platform for promoting Christian unity and harmony in Sarawak, drawing large crowds and the participation of church leaders and state representatives alike.
