I’m one of the many OFWs [overseas foreign workers] here in Hong Kong who came with dreams of finding purpose and fulfillment in life. We all have one life and we are given one chance to live that life well. All of us get one life from God and to not make the most of it would be such a waste. So when I had the chance to do something, I have to do it.
The opportunity to work overseas has made it possible for me to view all work as divine vocation regardless of race, culture and religion. Because of work, we are connected in the inter-dependent human economy which implies that everyone has a role in contributing to the dignity of one’s hard work and not simply eroding it.
Unbeknown to me, God has invited me to his House. I experienced things in my life that brought me to the Sowers Catholic Charismatic Community through which I presently serve him as an active member. I’m forever grateful, for it has shaped me into the person that I am today
This year is dedicated to St. Joseph, patron of the Universal Church. Although the Bible doesn’t say much about St. Joseph, with his extraordinary life he accomplished something pleasing in the eyes of God that humans are not able to recognise. His life is very much relatable to us OFWs. We may be doing the kind of work that society would regard as low class but which we accept with dignity and honour.
St. Joseph has shown us three important things to consider for our vocation: dream, service and fidelity.
As a migrant I dreamed of coming to Hong Kong to work. My service to my employer, my family and to the community is a life-giving commitment. I have been part of the Church community in Hong Kong for more than a decade. I have seen the chaos within but I have chosen to stay put because leaving the community will only show that my faith has not borne much fruit. There is no perfect community. We all know that. I have chosen to follow rules and submit to our leaders with no reservations. Serving God is a privilege.
Lastly, fidelity teaches me to always react in accordance with the guidance of the Holy Spirit in order to be successful in my ministry and to be pleasing to God, I shall live patiently with constant fidelity in every critical decision that I make.
So help me God. Amen.
Leticia Palicdon
Sowers Catholic Charismatic Community
St. Joseph’s Church Garden Road
