August, who has driven for the Diocese for over 25 years, takes me to meet Revd Jugah and the PCC at Seol Kandis. He is assisted by the Revd James, a retired priest, who jokes that no longer are they headhunting, but now they are hunting souls. Revd Jugah has been in ministry for over 20 years and is passionate about people’s spiritual development. ‘It is so important to develop the spiritual faith and life of the people; numbers are secondary.’ He is inspired by the example of the church in Korea. ‘Now they are sending missionaries everywhere; even to Kuching’. He says his library is on the small coffee table in his study – he is reading a book on leadership which underlines our call to exercise a servant ministry and follow the example of Jesus. His church has 400 families. He speaks warmly of the last Bishop of Kuching, Bishop Made as being a very humble man. ‘He preached simply and in a very touching manner’. Jugah appreciates the evangelical and charismatic strands and has no problem with women priests or bishops – 'The issues here are cultural'.
Quick snack before heading off to Sarawak Cultural Village in the foothills of the legendary Mount Santubong fronting the South China Sea with seven authentic ethnic houses built around a lake. We pile into the Church minibus - every church seems to have at least one - and have lively loud chat as we travel.
Bishop Bolly comes to the Hotel with revised script of his message and we have tea, sandwiches and tapioca and coconut cream in the hotel - he apologises for being unable to see me off on Sunday because of his confirmation commitments. Most generous and gracious hospitality.
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