By Fr. Elbert Balbastro, Columban Missionary in Pakistan
The ongoing war continues to impact many, with rising death tolls in Iran, Lebanon, and other Middle Eastern nations. Oil and commodity prices are increasing, affecting economies worldwide. Displaced populations add to the crisis, facing daily stress and uncertainty. Altogether, the situation creates a complex humanitarian challenge, emphasizing the urgent need for international aid and conflict resolution efforts to mitigate suffering and stabilize affected regions.
On the second Sunday of March, I had the chance to celebrate a Filipino mass for our community in Karachi, Pakistan. It was a meaningful gathering, providing an opportunity to reconnect with fellow Filipinos and collectively pray for peace and an end to the ongoing global conflict.
During the service, a Filipina shared that some Filipinos are currently staying in hotels in Karachi after being stranded. They had been on their way to Qatar and Saudi Arabia for employment, but with the outbreak of war and the closure of airspace, their flight was diverted to Karachi Airport. These individuals have been stranded for nearly two weeks, actively seeking assistance from fellow Filipinos.
Recognizing their plight, we decided to visit them, offering our presence and any support we could provide. Meeting them was a heartfelt experience, though also distressing, as we hear their concerns about their uncertain future. One woman, a breadwinner supporting a family of four children, expressed her worries about her financial stability, as she is unable to send money home due to the war.
Yet even in the midst of all this, there were small signs of hope. The support and companionship we offered seemed to bring some relief, evident in their brighter faces. Sharing stories and laughter appeared to alleviate some of their stress and tension, fostering a sense of solidarity among us. This encounter underscored the importance of community support during crises, highlighting how collective compassion can provide comfort and hope to those in distress. Our efforts reaffirmed the significance of unity and empathy in challenging times, emphasizing that even small gestures can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those affected by conflict.
Through that encounter, I felt that the Bayanihan spirit remains alive among Filipinos. The Bayanihan spirit is a deeply rooted value – one that moves people to help one another without expecting anything in return. It is a voluntary act of reaching out to someone who needs help. Despite being separated by islands, we share a common mission to help and love one another.
During this Lenten season, I also realized three essential pillars that guide our journey: prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Last Sunday, I experienced these practices firsthand with Filipino migrants. We fasted by sacrificing our rest and days off to visit stranded compatriots who were unable to go out from their hotels. Almsgiving was demonstrated through giving our time and resources, such as Filipino food prepared by a Filipina in Karachi, and biscuits to accompany the meal. Prayer was the concluding act, offering hope and emotional support, reminding them that they are not alone, even though they are far from their family.
These simple acts exemplify how faith-based practices foster solidarity and charity among Filipinos abroad. They strengthen bonds, uplift spirits, and reinforce the values of unity, compassion, and faith—three core elements of Filipino identity. This shows that acts of kindness and spiritual support during challenging times can sustain community bonds.
Ultimately, it is through these continuing acts of service and prayer that we embody the true spirit of Bayanihan ― a powerful expression of love and solidarity, especially in times of adversity.
During Lent, inspired by Matthew’s Gospel where angels attended Jesus after his fasting and temptation, we are called to act as angels for others. Showing concern and love, especially amid ongoing conflicts and uncertainties, is vital. Our most meaningful support is often our presence—being hospitable to strangers and offering hope.
This season calls us to unite in prayer for those directly affected by war and for migrants who are displaced and stranded, reflecting compassion and solidarity. By embodying kindness and hope, we can make a difference in a world in need.
May we walk together this Lenten season, extending our prayers and actions to uplift those suffering from conflict and displacement, and nurturing a spirit of community and hope in challenging times.
