One of my most unforgettable thing in 2021 was when Super Typhoon Odette [Rai] struck our province in Negros Oriental in December. Despite the destructions and fear, it reminded each one of us to stay together and help one another. We became one as a family, you can feel the love and care.
My plans for 2022 would be to continue praying and helping those who are in the process of recovery even in the simplest way I can like giving unused and usable clothes to those who are affected by the typhoon.
— Lie-Anne Fay Añosa
The year 2021 has been an event-filled year for me as an overseas worker in Hong Kong. I accepted a fitness challenge which served as a great turning point in my life. I joined the fitness competion mainly because I aimed for the cash prize which can be a huge help for my family’s financial need. I also wanted to shake off some fats and lose weight. I patiently and courageously followed the workout scheme, a kind of sacrifice as I needed to wake up earlier than usual for my morning routine. I was inspired as I was qualified for the finals from 400 to 100 to 70 candidates. Although I finally failed in the competition, I am a winner in my own way as I lost weight of 10 kilogrammes after six months of exhilarating morning and afternoon daily workouts. I seldom catch cold or flu now. I save more money as I don’t need to buy medicines or bigger clothes. I feel stronger, healthier and happier, which is as good as winning.
My plan for 2022 is to continue the workout and apply the lessons I have learned from the 2021 challenge. Mindful eating is important for good health. Set a goal and work for it in order to achieve. Be consistent in my plans and apply self discipline in many ways. My experience is a proof that health is wealth. May we all stay healthy, wealthy and happy.
— Jovie Joy Cod-amon
I have been an overseas worker here in Hong Kong for more than four years and I am not spared of the problems and trials that an overseas worker often encounters. But I am thankful to God Almighty that he gave me the strength and courage to face all those problems in life.
In 2021, I was commissioned as a lector of the Liturgy Ministry of Migrants Lay Missionaries, Saturday Group. I feel truly blessed because not everyone has the privilege to read the Word of God during the Mass. And more so when someone told me that she felt the Lord’s message when I read during the Mass.
For 2022, as I finish my contract, I plan to take home leave in the Philippines before I start with my new employer. I hope and pray that God will grant my heart’s desires.
As we celebrate the 500 years of Christianity in the Philippines. The Chaplaincy to Filipino Migrants organises an on-line talk every Tuesday at 9.00pm. You can join us at:
https://www.Facebook.com/CFM-Gifted-to-give-101039001847033
— Ma Victoria Garay
The Eucharist minister of St. Joseph Church, Garden Road, recently commissioned ten new members. It was so memorable for me as a leader of this group. In spite of the situation of pandemic, God has given us the blessing to bring these people closer to him. I’m so grateful that God is always there to guide me and make these happened for his greater glory.
My plan for the new year is to see my family back home and be reunited with them. I know God always have plans for us, though at present I’m not with my loved ones physically. But because of the new technology we are able to attend Eucharistic Mass online together. God always make a way for us to be united and build his Church in our home.
Bringing more faithful closer to him is my other plan, to search and reach out for the needy. May God continue to bless me with all I need to make my plans come true. God bless us all.
— Jhonatan Granadino
Here in Negros Oriental, we were recently hit by Typhoon Odette which destroyed a lot of homes and livelihoods. During these times, our faith were sometimes shaken and left us with a big question “Why”? Personally when the sail is tough I always anchor myself and my family with prayer specially the Rosary. My plans for 2022 are all lifted up to God. May his plans happen not mine. Not my will but his will be done. — Rodora Jucom
D uring my term as a leader of the Apostleship of Prayer in St. Joseph’s Church, Garden Road, I felt God’s comfort brought to me through paryers. I felt relieved as my leadership ended. It is a blessing to me as I am now free from stress and responsibilities. I can spend my time doing what I want to do in my own pace. My plan for 2022 is to be able to visit different churches during my days off and spend more time doing personal prayers and the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, so that I can feel closed to Our Lord and our Mother Mary.
— Febe Padernilla
