03-08-2025
St Mary's Cathedral welcomes back Fr David Garaman
St Mary's Cathedral Parish joyfully welcomed the return of Fr David Garaman as parish priest, effective July 1, 2025. His homecoming was marked with a special pot-bless fellowship on July 15, which also coincided with his 49th birthday. Aug 01, 2025
By Evelyn JockSt Mary's Cathedral Parish joyfully welcomed the return of Fr David Garaman as parish priest, effective July 1, 2025. His homecoming was marked with a special pot-bless fellowship on July 15, which also coincided with his 49th birthday. The celebration, organised by the Parish Pastoral Council in collaboration with the BECs, ministries, and various parish groups, was a heartfelt show of unity and thanksgiving. Fr David, a native of Kg Tempenau, Lahad Datu, was ordained on December 31, 2010, at St Dominic's Church, Lahad Datu — a historic occasion as it marked the first priestly ordination in the Diocese of Sandakan since its establishment in 2007. He previously served as a deacon at St Mary's Cathedral before his ordination. This is Fr David's third pastoral assignment to St Mary's Cathedral Parish. He previously served as its parish priest from January 1, 2018, guiding the parish through the COVID-19 pandemic with initiatives such as livestreamed Masses, online meetings, and the implementation of strict health protocols. Most recently, he was assigned to Holy Trinity Church, Tawau. Bishop Julius Dusin Gitom warmly welcomed Fr David's return and reminded the faithful that the reassignment of clergy is part of diocesan life, ensuring the pastoral and spiritual needs of the community are met. He encouraged parishioners to support Fr David and his team in their shared mission.
In his speech during the celebration, Fr David expressed his deep gratitude for the warm welcome and his joy at reconnecting with the parish community. He reaffirmed his commitment to serve in obedience to the bishop's appointment and, echoing the Church's call to Synodality, urged all parishioners to journey together in unity — with the bishop, assistant priests, and Parish Pastoral Council — in building a vibrant and inclusive Church.
