Father Nicholas Ong Se Tshin

Father Nicholas Ong Se Tshin was born on January 5, 1950, in Sandakan into a well-established family. His spiritual journey began at St. Mary's School in Sandakan, where he received his early education. The early 1970s presented a critical challenge for the Catholic Church in Sabah when foreign priests were expelled. Witnessing this pivotal moment, young Nicholas felt a divine calling to dedicate his life to Christ and serve his community.

He pursued his religious education at the Singapore Seminary for two years, followed by five years at St. Francis Xavier Seminary in Penang. On October 3, 1978, he was ordained at St. Mary's Church (now the Cathedral), becoming the third local priest after Bishop Simon Fung and Fr. Mewo. This marked the beginning of a remarkable four-decade journey of service, resilience, and spiritual leadership.

Father Nicholas Ong's early assignments shaped his pastoral approach. He began at St. Michael's Church in Penampang, then served as secretary to Bishop Simon Fung at St. Paul Dontozidon, and taught at the Diocesan Centre. These formative years developed his administrative skills and deepened his commitment to education.

After completing his Master of Theology in Berkeley, California, he served as a lecturer at St. Peter's College in Kuching until 1996. His academic contributions enriched the theological understanding of many seminarians. Later assignments took him across Sabah: from the Catholic Diocesan Centre in Kota Kinabalu to Blessed Sacrament Church in Labuan, Sacred Heart Cathedral, and St. Dominic's Church in Lahad Datu.

In 2007, he was appointed Monsignor, recognizing his decades of faithful service. Throughout his ministry, he celebrated significant milestones with his parishioners-his 31st anniversary in 2009, 38th in 2016, and the remarkable 40th anniversary in 2018.

In April 2008, Monsignor Ong became rector of Holy Trinity Church in Tawau, where he served for more than eight impactful years. His leadership transformed the parish into a vibrant community of faith and service.

• He championed Basic Ecclesial Communities (BECs), fostering small faith-sharing groups that brought parishioners closer to the diocesan vision of "a community serving each other with God's love."
• He devoted significant energy to the Neo-Catechumenal Way, nurturing spiritual renewal and deepening the faith journey of parishioners.
• His leadership emphasized inclusivity, family spirit, and environmental stewardship, creating a welcoming parish where everyone felt valued.
• Under his guidance, Holy Trinity Church undertook significant development projects including the construction of a three-storey multifunctional building, strengthening both infrastructure and community outreach.

In 2014, Monsignor Ong faced a profound health challenge: cancer of the nose. This difficult period tested not only his physical strength but also his spiritual resolve. With characteristic determination and unwavering faith, he underwent treatment and gradually returned to his ministry.

His journey through illness and recovery deepened his empathy and strengthened his connection with those facing health struggles. He returned to ministry with renewed energy, embodying the perseverance and hope that he so often preached.

Father Nicholas Ong's impact extended far beyond the church walls. Parishioners celebrated his 60th birthday in 2010 with heartfelt gratitude for his tireless pastoral work. He was deeply appreciated for his insightful homilies, regular visits to families, and commitment to environmental stewardship.

• His presence drew together parish leaders, youth, elders, and lay communities, creating a parish life marked by fellowship and mutual support.
• Assistant Rector Rev. Fr. Philip Muji praised his prudence and dedication, reflecting the respect he commanded among clergy and laity alike.
• More than just a spiritual leader, Monsignor Ong became a unifying figure who bridged generations and fostered a genuine sense of belonging within the Tawau Catholic community.

At the core of Monsignor Ong's teachings was the profound truth that the Trinity represents God's love poured into humanity. His mission centered on proclaiming and sharing the Good News, always reminding parishioners that priests, too, need prayers and support in their spiritual journey.

His teachings consistently encouraged renewal, perseverance, and service, leaving a spiritual imprint that continues to guide Holy Trinity Parish. He emphasized that true faith manifests not only in worship but in daily acts of love, compassion, and community building.

Father Nicholas Ong Se Tshin's life represents a tapestry of dedication, resilience, and love woven across four decades of service. From his ordination in 1978 to his leadership in Tawau, he has shaped communities with faith and compassion.

His legacy endures not only in anniversaries and milestones but in the living witness of parishioners who found hope, unity, and strength under his guidance. In Tawau and beyond, he remains a symbol of steadfast priesthood-a bridge between generations of believers and a testament to the transformative power of a life dedicated to service.

As Holy Trinity Church continues to thrive, the foundations laid by Monsignor Ong during his eight-year rectorship continue to support a vibrant, faith-filled community committed to serving each other with God's love.