By Monaliza Esteban, Columban Lay Missionary in Pakistan
I have been reflecting on my experiences in the tribal ministry – among both the Parkari Kohlis and the Punjabis. Over the past five years, I have witnessed diverse ways of life and I have even written a number of stories about them. These ongoing encounters have deepened my sense of gratitude and blessing – truly a gift for those called to this vocation.
My arrival here in Pakistan was not particularly promising. It took careful observation and much trial and error to understand how each group of people responded to the church. The challenges we faced were significant, requiring us to confront them together. However, through ongoing visits and personal encounters, I gradually became part of their life journey – in a sense, I became one of them. One of my most recent memorable encounters was with the Punjabi women. I was thrilled when they accepted our invitation one Sunday!
The women were delighted to have a group formed for them, and eagerly began sharing their faith in the Blessed Virgin Mary. Our primary goal was to visit homes to pray the rosary. However, I soon realized that most of the women were not familiar with how to pray the rosary. It took us a few meetings for everyone to grasp the process, but they quickly learned. By the time we reached the fifth or sixth family that month, they knew it by heart.
Next, we encouraged them to lead the rosary themselves. However, I soon discovered that only two or three of the women could read. They were open about their struggles with reading, which left me wondering how to move forward. Eventually, Baji Mariam Saleem was chosen as their leader and took the initiative to lead the rosary from time to time.
As time passed by, another mother approached me, asking to join the group. I was thrilled that they were stepping forward and showing interest. Soon, one mother followed another, and before long, four young girls expressed their desire to join us as well! Despite their young age and soft voices, they eagerly took part in leading the mysteries. What a beautiful movement of the Blessed Virgin!
I believe that the faith of these girls and women is being stirred and touched by the Holy Spirit. The dedication I see from them every week, as they go from house to house, is not constant but growing. Empowering them to lead has been a significant step, especially in a society where women are often suppressed and not allowed to share their talents. I am in awe at how the Holy Spirit continues to move among them.
Just like Mother Mary, who loves the church, these women embody her spirit. Their love and commitment to spreading joy by visiting every home and praying the rosary together have strengthened not only their own faith but also that of the little girls who accompany them. Despite their responsibilities at home and work, their dedication and passion every Tuesday remain unwavering.
One evening, we held the rosary at my place. Everyone was there, and I was overjoyed to welcome them. I am deeply moved by how they continue to grow in faith and confidence. One woman led the prayers beautifully, offering heartfelt intentions with each mystery. I was specially touched when she prayed for me and my family. After the rosary, I struggled to find the right words to express my gratitude, but I thanked them sincerely from the bottom of my heart.
Prayer sustains me in my daily life, and its power becomes greater when we pray together as a community. I feel incredibly blessed to be part of such a supportive group, especially when God’s blessings come in the most unexpected moments. I thank God for their dedication and faith as they reach out to other families in our parish.
My constant prayer for them – and I invite you to join me – is that they may always embody the courage of their patron, Mother Mary, and continue their mission to spread love throughout the communities in Badin.
Featured Image Above: October 2024: Mona (center) with the women during a parish activity for the Month of the Rosary
