By Evelyn Sabate, Columban Mission Animator for Luzon

One of my most significant experiences in mission promotion and fundraising is witnessing  generosity  everywhere – even in the simplest moments, like  riding a jeepney.

One Sunday morning, I attended the 9:30am mass at Our Lady of Remedies Parish in Malate, the only Columban Parish in Manila. After the mass, I took a jeepney to the mall. The woman beside me hesitantly gave the driver her P1,000 bill for her fare, knowing that it was a large note. Since she had no smaller bills, she offered it apologetically, but the driver returned it saying he had no change. The woman said in a low voice “kawawa naman ang driver” (what a pity for the driver!). Upon hearing her remark, I offered to pay for her fare. She thanked me for doing that for her. When we arrived at the mall, we took our separate ways.

I went straight to a popular fast-food chain for  lunch when I suddenly  saw someone familiar – the same woman from the jeepney. She was already eating, and when she saw me ordering my food, she offered to pay for my food. Surprised, I refused her offer, but she paid the cashier immediately.

As we sat down to eat, we introduced ourselves, and the conversation became personal. That was how I met Marian Aguiluz. To make a long story short, we became friends. I even included her in my daily prayer text messages.

After a month, she texted me, saying  she wanted to donate to the Columban mission and asking how to do so. We met, and I personally introduced her to the process of  becoming a Columban mission partner. After our  conversation, she committed  to making a donation to support  the Columban mission.

From that experience, I realized that even a simple act of kindness can  have a profound impact. In fundraising,  little gestures of generosity can touch  hearts and inspire giving. I thank the Lord for blessing the Columban mission with generous people.