Nearing the Christmas season in 2016, Mr Furdy Fernandez, a HFK parishioner was tasked with the yearly coordination of the church Christmas decoration plans. Being so used to the constant internal décor, Mr Furdy felt a prompting for a change in the outside as well.
As chance would have it, the MRT project was underway. While brainstorming the idea further with then Parish Priest, Father Surain Durairaj, Mr. Furdy visualized props that would be visible to commuters or anyone as they passed by the church.
Just like that, an extended idea of a rooftop silhouette nativity scene was born.
In researching and exploring for the best visual representation model for this nativity scene, Father Surain picked and put together sleek silhouette figures of the nativity scene after combing through several references.
A model image was now in place and construction would now begin.
It was important to use lightweight and durable material in order for it to be able to hold and remain firmly mounted on the rooftop.
Favourably, Mr. Furdy, a seasoned contractor and artistic builder had lots of discarded highway signage materials at his disposal which turned out to be just what was needed.
Work commenced right away. The side of the church hall doubled into a workshop for the silhouette cut outs and assembly. Initially set in black, the team decided to have it painted in white instead for better lighting effect.
Once the silhouette life-size cutouts were completed, the team worked at night to install them above the rooftop. Working through that cool night offered the parishioners a delightful surprise the next day.
Together with Mr Furdy's team of workers were Mr Joseph Lum and Mr Kenny Lau as electrician and technicians, who topped it all off with the installation of the star marking the stable.
One late evening of 16th December 2016, Father Surain would view the life-sized figurines now placed on the roof of the old HFK church building.
It was a sight to behold!
That year, his Christmas message to our dear parishioners would say, “Remember to look at the crib as often as you can on Christmas day. It keeps the celebration in focus.”
This idea, conceived 5 years ago, has now become a landmark at HFK every Christmas, standing out as a distinct beacon against the beautiful backdrop of the sky.
Once again, this year, the beautiful set is now up and lights the sky at sunset. We invite all to drive by, take in the view and say a little prayer as the season draws close.
We thank and praise God for the inspiring idea nudged by the Holy Spirit and the team who with their hard work and passion made this possible.
To the team that ensure this beautiful piece of décor is up in time for Christmas every year - we praise God for their dedication and commitment in scaling heights and braving weather conditions for the set-up of this yearly artistic piece.
And by the light of that same star
Three wise men came from country far;
To seek for a king was their intent,
And to follow the star wherever it went.
Noel, Noel, Noel, Noel,
Born is the King of Israel.
