Getting to know Stella Maris Siantan Parish Catholic Church, Pontianak

theolingua.id – Stella Maris Siantan Parish Catholic Church is one of the Catholic churches in the Archdiocese of Pontianak, West Kalimantan. This church is located on Jalan Gusti Situt Mahmud, Siantan Tengah Village, North Pontianak District, Pontianak City. With its strategic location, this church is the centre of religious activities for Catholics in the area.

Inaugurated and blessed by the Archbishop of Pontianak, Mgr Agustinus Agus, on 28 May 2022, Stella Maris Church has magnificent architecture and a large garden in its yard. Its existence is not only a place of worship, but also a symbol of togetherness and religious spirit of Catholics in North Pontianak. The presence of this church is expected to further strengthen the faith and togetherness of the people in carrying out their spiritual life.

History and Development of Stella Maris Siantan Parish

Stella Maris Siantan Parish Catholic Church is the result of the expansion of St Yoseph Parish, Pontianak Cathedral. Before becoming an independent parish, Stella Maris was known as Stasi Bintang Timur since 1950. The first baptism recorded in the history of this church took place on 16 February 1967, which was later used as a reference for the founding day of the parish. From the beginning, the church had many parishioners from the Chinese community who had settled in the Siantan area since the 1940s.

In the course of its history, Stella Maris Siantan Parish was originally served by priests from the Capuchin Order (OFM Cap). However, since 14 January 1998, pastoral care in this parish was handed over to priests from the Holy Family Missionary Congregation (MSC).

Church Inauguration and Blessing

The inauguration of Stella Maris Siantan Parish Catholic Church on 28 May 2022 became a historical moment for Catholics in Pontianak. The event was attended by various important figures, including the Regional Secretary of West Kalimantan Province, Harisson, who represented the Governor of West Kalimantan. In addition, the Chairman of the West Kalimantan Provincial DPRD, Pj. Regent of Landak Samuel, as well as representatives from the Mayor of Pontianak, West Kalimantan Police Chief, and Pangdam XII/Tanjungpura.

In his speech, Mgr Agustinus Agus emphasised the importance of building the personality of the people who worship in the church, not just a magnificent building. He also appreciated the spacious garden in the church yard which provides a comfortable atmosphere for people who come to worship.

The inauguration event was also coupled with various ceremonies, such as ribbon cutting, opening the church door, and signing the inauguration inscription by the Archbishop of Pontianak and local government representatives. Stella Maris Parish Priest, Aloysius Tombokan, expressed his gratitude to all those who have supported the construction of this church since 2014 until it can finally be completed and used by the people.

Stella Maris Church as Spiritual Tourism Potential

Apart from being a place of worship, Stella Maris Siantan Parish Catholic Church also has the potential as an attractive spiritual tourism destination. In this church environment there is a place of worship of the Way of the Cross and the Grotto of Mary, which can be a place of pilgrimage for Catholics, both from within and outside Pontianak. The presence of these places of worship provides an opportunity for people to reflect on their faith in a calm and solemn atmosphere. Not only that, the design and arrangement of the beautiful area around the church also creates an atmosphere that supports prayer activities and spiritual reflection.

The Regional Secretary of West Kalimantan Province, Harisson, in his speech also invited the congregation to keep the church beautiful and comfortable for pilgrims. He emphasised that this church is not only a place of worship, but also a part of cultural and religious heritage that must be cared for together. With good care, Stella Maris Church can continue to be a conducive place for people who want to deepen their faith while enjoying the serenity of worship.

Mass Schedule at Stella Maris Church Siantan

As the main place of worship for Catholics in Siantan, Stella Maris Siantan Parish Catholic Church has a regular mass schedule that has been set to fulfil the spiritual needs of the congregation. With various schedules available, the church endeavours to provide opportunities for the faithful to attend mass according to the time that best suits their activities.

Apart from being a means of worship, mass at Stella Maris Church is also a moment of togetherness and reflection for those who attend. Each mass is not only a time to pray and strengthen faith, but also to strengthen relationships between people in the church community. With a solemn atmosphere and a supportive environment, the congregation is expected to deepen the meaning of worship in everyday life.

• Daily Mass: 5.30 pm
• First Friday Mass: 6.00 pm
• Saturday Mass: 6.00 pm
• Sunday Mass: 6.30 am and 8.30 am

Conclusion

Stella Maris Siantan Parish Catholic Church is a symbol of faith for Catholics in North Pontianak that has a long history and an important role in the spiritual development of the local community. Since its inception, this church has become a shelter for people in carrying out worship and other spiritual activities. With the support of various parties, both from within the church and the surrounding community, Stella Maris has developed into an active and empowering faith formation centre for the Catholic community in the area.

Apart from being a place of worship, Stella Maris Church also has potential as a centre for social activities and spiritual tourism. With adequate facilities and a beautiful environment, this church is an attraction for people and visitors from outside the area. Various religious and social activities that are routinely organised in this church further strengthen its role in building togetherness and solidarity among the people. Hopefully, the existence of Stella Maris Siantan Church can continue to be a source of blessing for the surrounding community and have a positive impact on their spiritual life.