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
By Edward Robert Gallagher “To accomplish great things, we must not only act, but also dream; not only plan, but also believe.”- Anatole France From a young age, I was inspired by my father, who introduced me to the Catholic Church and to a member of the Missionary Society of St. Columban, a
By Fr. Louie Ybañez, SSC Looking after the schools in six villages is a huge task that requires constant monitoring. We face many challenges, most of which are long-standing issues that have persisted for many years. A renewed vision with an action plan in place for these schools is needed. Part of the plan is
