The Pre-Gawai Mass celebration on May 21, 2010 was the best ever. The parishioners came in full force, proudly showcasing their rich Dayak cultural heritage at the celebration of the Pre-Gawai Mass, fellowship dinner and cultural entertainment.
The Baruk and the peripheral buildings, decorated with motifs and artefacts were transformed into a Dayak ‘Longhouse’. The reception and celebration was typical of the trademark of the Dayaks as one would experience in a longhouse.
The celebration kicked off at about 7.40 PM with the reception of the guest of honour, Friar Gerard Victor OFM and other guests at the main entrance to St. Ann's Church by the organising committee members, led by the Chairman, Puan Bridget Patrick. The entourage walked up closely behind the dancers to the ‘Longhouse’. The people who have gathered at the Baruk gave their rousing welcome. 
The Mass started at 8.00 PM with Friar Gerard summing it all in his homily, “I came, I saw and I am amazed. Your cooperation, your ability to work together united as a team and fostering relationship can help others to experience the presence of Christ in you.”
Later the petitions were read in different dialects and languages by five representatives representing the various ethnics. The presentation of the gifts was by six young maidens from RPR Landeh dancing to the beats of the gong.
After the Mass Friar Gerard Victor, donning Bidayuh costumes and other guests made their way to the ‘Ruai’. At the entrance, they were served with tuak, the traditional rice wine and when seated they were served with traditional delicacies. On the stage, young maidens performed the welcome dance. This was followed by the welcoming address by the event organising chairman, Puan Bridget Patrick and the opening ceremony by Friar Gerard Victor, beating the gong three times.
The fellowship dinner that evening was a splendid fare, courtesy of families as they shared freely with others. It truly reflected the diversity and generosity of the parishioners.
The evening continued with cultural performances by enthusiastic young performers from Taman Greenwood, Taman Duranda, St Joachim 12th Mile, Taman Sri Muhibbah and RPR Landeh. To cap an enjoyable evening, the guests sportingly joined the long dance.
The hard work by all concern had really made the evening a lasting impression. Thank you to all and HAPPY GAWAI!
Caption to pictures:
1. Arrival of Guests
2. Presentation of gifts & dance
3 and 4. - Committee members acknowledged thanks from the congregation
5. Guests- from left, Friar Joseph Lee, Robert Josem, Friar Gerard and Martin Nyibomb
6. Friar Gerard Victor OFM giving his usual short and concise address
7. Sr. Irmina Peter (right) in Orang Ulu costumes
8. Sr. Antionette (3rd left) in Bidayuh costumes
9. Presentation by Taman Greenwood
10. Presentation by Taman Duranda
11. Presentation by St Joachim 12th Mile
12 & 13. Presentation by Taman Sri Muhibbah
14. Presentation by RPR Landeh
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