Presentation of the Nativity Exemplary Service Award
The Nativity Exemplary Service Award in conjunction with the NBVM/SCIC 86/26 Anniversary was presented to 10 parishioners for their outstanding service and contribution. On 7 November 2021, Bishop Sebastian together with Frs. Dominic and Martin graciously celebrated the Thanksgiving Mass and presented the awards to the recipients at the ceremony after mass.
The recipients present at the ceremony were:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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 Anthony Selvanayagam’s 25th Sacerdotal Anniversary souvenir booklet.
Anthonysamy Selvanaikam
Awarded in recognition of his contributions as a SCIC Building Committee member, Communion minister and PPC member.
Stephen Catherine Mary
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.
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.
The recipients not present:
William Gomez
Awarded in recognition of his contributions as a lector and commentator, Communion minister and BEC leader.
Late Anna Lim Tai Thai (Ah Khoo)
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.
