Filipino missionaries in Hong Kong had their first gathering for this year on January 10 at the Diocesan Pastoral Centre for Migrants, on the 18th Floor of the Grand Building, Des Voeux Road, Central.
The meeting led by Sister Maricris Llasos MNDA, was attended by Sister Felicitas Nisperos and Sister Corazon Demetillo RGS; Sister Mary Cecille Duque, Sister Regina Lito and Sister Jennifer Villamor PDDM; Sister Mary Cordero and Sister Maria Corazon Liwanag OSF. It was also attended by Father Efren Ojeda OFM and Father Joseph Haw SJ.
The gathering kicked off with a Holy Hour, which was followed by a prayer for world peace. Then the religious people discussed various issues concerning the pastoral care work for migrants. The evening concluded with bonding over a meal.
More than a decade ago, the group was organised under the Chaplaincy for Filipinos. This is a kind of support group that helps the Filipino missionaries to know that they are not alone and they support one another through prayers and their active engagement in the lives of the migrant workers both in Hong Kong and Macau. The group gathers three times a year, during Christmas, Easter and Summer. Being a contemplative order, the Poor Clare Sisters could not join the group so it goes to Lamma Island usually during Easter time or when the weather is good.
Representatives of the consulate general are sometimes invited to attend their meeting to update them about the situation of the overseas workers. Also, Cynthia Tellez, general manager of the Mission for Migrant Workers, comes from time to time to help the group understand the labour policies in Hong Kong that affect migrant workers. SE
