Accepting God’s Invitation

Urban Mission Reflection – Kalawaan, Pasig City

It was the last day of November when we were advised that we’ll be joining the last phase of Urban
Mission at Kalawaan, Pasig City. That same day, we met the Parish Priest, Fr. Hernan and some
members of the Mission Team including Ms. Mai Sapinit, our lay partner. A 15-day mission to expose
ourselves in their community, observe the dynamics of their BECs and a good time to bond and build
good relationship with our foster family.

My reflection would focus more on my foster parent, Nanay Meding. A 60 yrs. old active BEC Leader of
Krovha, Kalawaan. She has 4 children but I only knew 3 of them because the eldest has moved out for
good (married). I was with Ate Ning, 32 with her lone child Gabo, 9 now on his 5th grade. Ate Roma, 30
and Kuya Bong, 28. The 3 of them are working in a Hardware Shop nearby. Nanay separated ways with
her husband in the early 2000s because of some personal reasons she opted not to share. It was her who
stood up and brought life to all their children. She worked day and night to provide the needs of her family.
In the morning, she works as a dress maker while at night, nearby clients usually neighbors ask for
laundry, an extra income that would be beneficial for her family too. From that story, I saw how
persevering she is to fulfill her promise for her family. One line that she always say ‘May awa ang Diyos’.
Despite all the obstacles, challenges and misfortune, she never question the presence of God, she did
not even bother to ask ‘why’. What she knows is that God did not leave her, that he has been there
always to comfort and guide her in lifting her family wholly. She was never alone.

This felt surreal and magical. Nanay Meding who has nothing to offer but pure heart and goodness
opened her doors for missionaries without reservation. I know that it is the same holy spirit who guided us
and the Holy Family this Christmas. We actually knocked not just the same door but the same spirit living
in that person. God revealed to us his goodness through Nanay and their community. We arrived without
prospect and expectations and departed with high hopes because we have witnessed how the community
flourish and how the BEC leaders work hand in hand to fulfill each one’s promise.

I will forever treasure this experience. Before, this is just a script or a typical ‘Panunuluyan’ theater
performance but now it has come to life. I was uncertain at first but God threaded this experience to meet
him through them. Let me finish my reflection by this bible passage from Jeremiah 29:11, “For I know the
plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a
hope.”

All for you, Lord.

Aldous