BERA: Christmas at the historic St John Chapel in Triang here is set to be a joyful celebration as it prepares to welcome hundreds of visitors for a festive gathering filled with warmth, tradition and a strong sense of togetherness.
The small rural chapel’s chairman, Patrick Lim Chee Kiat, said preparations have been underway for weeks to ensure the Dec 25 celebration remains a highlight for the community, just as it has been for generations.
“Last year, we had about 400 locals joining us. This year, we are ready to welcome even more.
“Christmas here is not only for Christians, as our forefathers opened the chapel doors to the people of Triang New Village on Yuletide.
“That spirit of sharing continues today,” he said.
Lim said visitors can look forward to a spread of Christmas delicacies, a gift exchange and treats for children aged 12 and below, who will receive goodies from Santa Claus.
“To add a touch of wonder, the committee will bring back its artificial snow machine, a crowd favourite that transforms the rural chapel grounds into a charming winter scene.
“We want families to feel the magic the moment they arrive. Christmas is about joy and we want every visitor to bring home a happy memory,” he added.
Lim also said a Christmas carolling session will also take place on Dec 20, continuing a tradition that brings together singers from the village and the chapel community.
He said outstation visitors are also welcome as the chapel prepares to mark a major milestone next year.
“This chapel has been here since 1926 and next year, we will celebrate our 100th anniversary,” he explained.
Lim said the committee hopes to secure support from corporate bodies to help make the event even more memorable for residents in rural Pahang.
Despite the festive cheer, Lim acknowledged that the chapel is facing an unresolved land matter involving an acquisition attempt by a developer.
“We only hope that this place will be protected so that the community can continue to pray here for many years,” he said.
The chapel served as a sanctuary for early settlers and even functioned as a flood evacuation centre in the early years of Triang.
“This site has a deep history and it means a great deal to the people here,” he said.
Despite the concern, Lim said the committee remains determined to keep the Christmas spirit alive.
“Christmas is about hope and we choose to celebrate with joy while trusting that everything will work out,” he added.
