One of the reasons why my heart was “burning” during the Transmission was numbers 22 and 25. To quote, “From the awareness of our filiation, we feel called to participate actively in diverse networks of care… recognize interdependence and the need to collaborate with others… discover networks already existing in our immediate surroundings and to discern our real possibilities of participation.” And the heading before No. 25 states, “Awakening to the call: a path to happiness and meaning… Our goal is to accompany the young, help them clarify the dream God has for their lives…”

I feel affirmed in the Congregation’s stance on the importance of collaboration. I feel encouraged to keep the Youth Ministry alive in our context. And animated to continue to be a presence and hope, “contributing our grain of mustard seed…create spaces in which to incarnate the living presence of Christ” (no. 23).

Migrants Ministry in Tokyo (St. Ignatius Church)

When we say “migrants”, we are not only involved with Filipinos but with a variety of races, cultures, languages, and ages. We serve as a “bridge” between the Japanese and migrants from Asia, Europe, Africa, the North, and the Americas. We are very much involved in the formation of the young (through the Sunday School), and we are in the heart of the catechetical world of adults through the preparation of the Sacraments (adult conversion, Pre-Cana, etc.). We are part of the Pastoral Council, which is a team that plans, implements, and evaluates the vision and mission of the largest multicultural parish in the Japanese Church. And we cannot do this alone; it is in “synodality” with our many volunteers. St. Ignatius Church is not our own center, but we collaborate closely with the Jesuits, and it is a joy to share the same Ignatian spirituality. At the same time, our charism of filiation and fraternity offers a unique and meaningful contribution to this part of the world.

Youth Ministry

We do not have a clearly defined Vocation Ministry program or structure in our Japan mission. However, we are fortunate to be part of a parish with a vibrant and empowered international Youth Ministry.  The Hijas de Jesus are not directly involved in its direction, but our presence and accompaniment are strongly felt, “in the periphery”. And this year, Sr. Lorena Sevillo, FI was invited to a 3-day Retreat of the St. Ignatius International Youth Ministry (SIIYM) entitled, “Pilgrims of Hope, Going into the Deep”.  GOD PAVES THE WAY! Kindly pray for us as we enter this important encounter.

by Sr. Flor Florece, F.I.