Very recently in August, Fr. Cosma Dang Lam, SDB, the parish priest in Utrail had asked the Sisters if we could give more service to the villages other than the usual visiting and giving of communion to the elderly and sick in the nearby villages. This time, he asks for the collaboration of the Sisters to address the specific needs of the women, particularly the mothers. As a parish priest, he perceives the need for women villagers to be accompanied in their human and Christian growth while carrying out their role as mothers, neighbors to one another, and Christians. He also expressed concern about some ‘immoral’ practices of some women in the villages under his parish which for him is ‘unable’ to accompany them being men and considering the culture of this tribal community. He expresses confidence that the Sisters can better journey with our women. The community then deliberated on this reality that God is presented to us and as a response we are willing and happy to share more time to be with our brothers and sisters in the villages.

As a community, we have agreed that Srs. Helen Catangcatang and Femie Pomado, together with our Postulants, will participate in this village ministry every Saturday. The initial visit to two villages has already been completed. Our goal is to help the women and their families become more aware of and live out the spirit of Synodality, as we address the needs identified by the women in the 'Help of Christians Parish' in Utrail.

Photos :  

Village visit with our postulant

The joy of encountering one another

Saying hello to mothers

To go with joy...

A typical village house made of mud

Visiting the village Leader

Visiting the sick in the village

BY : Sr. Helen Catangcatang, FI