Teng Bukap (Tiang Bukap) remains an important centre for the Catholic community and has been the focal point for the Catholics living in the Upper Padawan area since the early 60’s. Presently there are at least 6,200 Catholics from the 13 villages that come under the care of Zone Teng Bukap. The physical development of Teng Bukap had a close link with the opening of St Michael’s Primary School, as
an outstation mission of St Ann, in 1960. Harry Van Erp (Mill Hill Missionary). St Michael then was a boarding school that catered for students in Primary 5 and Primary 6. The students came not only from the nearby locality but as far as from Kpg Semaba and Kg Jambu. The vision of Fr Harry was to evangelise the nearby villages and also promote education among the new converts. Many have benefited from the initiative started by Fr. Harry in terms of education and now enjoy a good standing in our modern society. Harry has taken root and continues to be a blessing for the current and future generations. Though St Michael Primary does not exist anymore but the legacy still remains alive in the hearts of those blessed by the gift of education. The Franciscan friars has also embarked on this vision to build a Chapel in Teng Bukap for the predominant Pinyawa-speaking community. Presently, the Mass and other activities are held in the Dewan Pinyawa. This hall has its limitation in terms of facilities, space and comfort and is not conducive for the Sunday worship. As such, we need a proper Chapel for place of worship especially on Sunday for 800 parishioners or more. Therefore, the friars together with the Catholic community in Teng Bukap are appealing for funds to build this Chapel that will costs about RM 1.5 million. Our hope is that those who were blessed abundantly in the earlier times will open their hearts to make this vision become a reality. What began as a humble initiative by Fr. Harry has developed leaps and bounds to something even exciting for the future generations to come, especially in terms of the gift of faith. We will honour any donations made either big or small with an official receipt and all cheques can be addressed to “St Michael Teng Bukap New Chapel”, under MayBank account no. 561079516320. Thanks for your generosity that will aid in making our vision come true.
