This year, the Parish of Saint Thomas, the Apostle, Kuantan, celebrates a significant milestone – its 120th Anniversary. Over the past twelve decades, countless lives have been touched by the witness of faith, the proclamation of the Gospel, and the grace bestowed through the various sacraments within this Parish community.
The earliest baptism records date back to 25 March 1906, when the first three individuals – Joseph Liao Ah Gni, Andrew Teu Ah Mau, and Lazarus Voun Sui Tso – were baptised by Rev. Fr Vincent Gageau, MEP, in a simple house at Belat near Gambang, about 30 kms from Kuantan city. From these modest beginnings, the Catholic community gradually expanded, eventually establishing a chapel in Kuantan city during the 1930s and 1940s. Rev. Fr. Louis Guitatt, MEP, became the first Parish Priest and Priest-in-Residence and also served as the first Principal of Saint Thomas School. The Parish continued to flourish, and in 1966, under Rev. Fr Antoniette Herriot, MEP, the present church was constructed – a lasting testament to the faith and sacrifices of the early community.
As part of this historic celebration, all Parishioners and friends are warmly invited to participate in the Nine-Day Novena to St Thomas, the Apostle, from Friday, 26 June to Saturday, 4 July 2026, and the Thanksgiving Mass on 5 July 2026, all centred on this year’s inspiring theme: “Saint Thomas, the Greatest Gift of Our Time.”
Each day of the Novena Mass invites us to journey with Saint Thomas and enrich our own faith, which is the heart and soul of our celebration.
The story of Saint Thomas reflects our own journey. He doubted, faced challenges, encountered the Risen Lord, and ultimately made one of the greatest professions of faith among the Apostles: “My Lord and My God.” His experience reminds us that true faith grows through seeking understanding, trusting, and courageously witnessing to Christ in everyday life.
The celebrations will conclude on 5 July 2026, where we will also celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation for 20 candidates. Archbishop Julian Leow will be the main Presider of the Mass. The theme of the day encourages us to recognise Saint Thomas as a beacon of faith and truly “The Greatest Gift of Our Time” for the Church in the East Coast since 1906.
We wholeheartedly invite everyone – parishioners, former parishioners, alumni, families, and friends from across Malaysia to join us in this grace-filled celebration. Come together as one Church and one family during the Novena to thank God for 120 years of His abundant blessings.
For the complete Novena and Mass schedules, please visit our Parish Website: www.stthomaskuantan.org
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