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Dumaguete City,
The Philippines
April 2010
Dear Sisters, Associates, Relatives and Friends,
It indeed seemed symbolically significant – in our last hours in Dumaguete City that Bishop Du, the local Ordinary, presented us with the gift of a mother of pearl shell. The shell seemed to glimmer in radiance as one held it in hand. This small glistening shell also held the voice of a mighty ocean. So small, so brilliant, yet the shell represented the best of our new congregational mission. A mission of a small endeavor but with rippling waves of healing energy upon the lives of many.
The Voice and Face of the Mission – Heard and Seen
Only months into its history, the voice of the mission could be heard, seen in the eyes and faces of all those we encountered over the week of our visit. We saw in the eyes of the young children who live on the street -- not only hunger -- for food but also hunger for recognition. Among the disabled that came seeking assistance we heard their stories of not having the means to secure their basic needs yet thankful to have someone willing to share their burden. And on the aged faces of the elders, we read the need for a kind word and a gentle smile. Despite the age differences, all were in need of a healing presence.
In the midst of those who had needs were people of good will who came forth:
- People who had heard of the Sisters’ endeavors to expand the Shelter of Hope Soup Kitchen.
- University students who wanted clinical experiences in teaching or nursing while also attending to their own brothers and sisters came.
- Volunteers who came and asked, “How can I be of help?” and decided to stay to set up for the meal or serve the meals.
- The “quiet helpers,” those donors of food and financial resources that kept food on the table. What an incredible experience of tangible goodness! (Godness)
Treasured Time with our Sisters
The days with our Sisters were quite full. We had opportunity to worship and pray with them as well as to make time to dream together toward the future. Our daily liturgical celebrations were shared with a multitude of devout persons of every age and background. We had the pleasure of meeting with a few of the area priests to discuss the highlights and challenges facing the local Church. We visited ministries efforts of other Congregations and were graciously welcomed. We met with a small group of young women who have had regular contact with our Sisters and are discerning where God might be calling them for their future. We broke bread with those who wish to support our efforts. The rich encounters seemed endless.
In between our times, we reflected on the sacrifices of initiating a new mission: exposure to a new language and culture, being at a distance from what is familiar, the geographic distance from family and fellow Sisters and Associates, undertaking a new form of ministry with diverse needs and of course, being few in number with much to do!
So, what will we hold in our hearts from our trip to Dumaguete?
We would have to say, everyone and everything we beheld with our eyes. There is no doubt that our healing charism is needed and wanted in this new land. There is no doubt that this mission is a work of and for God. There is no doubt that our Sisters are a healing balm to all those they have the privilege to encounter. We are blessed….and we are blessing for the people of Dumaguete City!
Marilyn Trowbridge, sfp
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