By Fr. Elbert Balbastro My mom has always held a special place in my heart. Though we are far apart, our interconnectedness will always remain – like an umbilical cord that binds us and makes us one. Through my parents, especially my mom, I came to know Jesus Christ. She taught me how to pray
Christmas Hopes and Fears By Fr. Vinnie Busch, SSC “O little town of Bethlehem How still we see thee lie Above thy deep and dreamless sleep The silent stars go by Yet in thy dark streets shineth The Everlasting Light The hopes and fears of all the years Are met in thee tonight”
By Lilibeth Sabado, Columban Lay Missionary In August 2023, I arrived in El Paso after a 6-month language immersion in Cochabamba, Bolivia. Then I underwent a seven-month tedious visa application process. This process included a trip to Manila in March 2024 for consular appearance, biometrics, and an interview. Upon returning, my religious visa granted me
By Lucille S. Arcedas I believe my journey as Columban Mission Partner began even before I was born. My parents worked closely with the Columban Fathers; my mother was a catechist, and my father as their driver. Later, they trained in Family Life Ministry, guiding couples to sacramental marriage. Even after their formal association with
From the islands to the Philippines. My vocation story began in the beautiful islands of Fiji, where I was inspired by the work of the Columbans in my parish, and local church. I made a life-changing decision to join the Columbans as a lay missionary in crossing boundaries, culture and creed. I went through
By Ana Flores, CLM I met Jenny in 2022 during the pandemic. I remember that time when I attended Mass in Narulang, I saw Jenny and her two-year-old daughter Jennifer, and I wondered why Jennifer was walking with difficulty. After Mass, Jenny and I had a brief conversation about her family. She shared with
