MUKAH – The N57 Tellian Service Centre rolled out a special Lenten Food Basket Programme on 14 March 2026, aimed at supporting Catholic Christian families during the holy season of Lent.
The initiative was led by YB Royston Valentine, Assemblyman for Tellian, who joined staff and volunteers alongside his wife to pack kitchen essentials for distribution.
The food baskets will be delivered to residents in several localities, including Chapel St Anthony Kampung Tellian, Chapel St Jude Kampung Petanak, and St Peter & Paul Church Mukah.
Lent, observed by Catholic Christians, is a 40-day period of spiritual preparation leading up to Easter, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
Beginning on Ash Wednesday and concluding before Maundy Thursday’s Mass of the Last Supper, Lent is regarded as a time of reflection, repentance, and renewal.
The tradition encourages believers to embrace four key practices:
- Repentance: Evaluating oneself, turning away from sin, and drawing closer to God.
- Prayer: Strengthening devotion through increased prayer, attending mass, and reflecting on Christ’s sacrifice.
- Fasting and Abstinence: Demonstrating self-control and sacrifice, often by reducing food intake or giving up personal comforts.
- Charity: Extending love and assistance to those in need through donations or acts of kindness.
Speaking at the event, YB Royston Valentine highlighted the importance of community solidarity during Lent.
He expressed gratitude to the Service Centre staff for their dedication in preparing the baskets, noting that the programme reflects the values of compassion and care that underpin the season.
The initiative also underscores the role of faith-based programmes in strengthening social bonds and supporting vulnerable groups.
By providing food aid, the Tellian Service Centre hopes to ease burdens faced by families while reinforcing the spirit of giving and unity.
Local church leaders welcomed the programme, describing it as a meaningful gesture that not only supports households materially but also uplifts them spiritually during Lent.
The distribution of food baskets is expected to benefit many families across Mukah, ensuring that the season of reflection is accompanied by tangible acts of love and generosity.
The Lenten Food Basket Programme is part of ongoing efforts by the Tellian Service Centre to engage with the community through welfare initiatives, particularly during significant religious observances.
