On August 16, the Migrants Lay Missionaries (MLM) celebrated their 10th Anniversary at St. Alfred’s Church’s parish hall, themed “A Decade of Grace, Rooted in Christ, Growing in Love.” The program featured an opening prayer, creatively expressed through a liturgical dance interpretation of “You Raised Me Up,” followed by the Philippine National Anthem.
After a message delivered by Father Jay Francis Flandez, the chaplain to the Filipino migrants and their spiritual director, a video presentation highlighted the group’s journey and achievements since its formation. The MLM started on 15 August 2015, with only 13 members, led by Father Flandez and the late Sister Vicky Ramos. Their mission was to create a community space for Filipino migrants to engage in Mass and find support while away from their families. The first Mass was celebrated on 29 August 2015, marking the official establishment of the group.
Today, the MLM gathers for a regular Mass every Saturday at 3.00pm. They also host spiritual activities like running a catechesis group, Eucharistic adoration, and praise and worship sessions, focusing their mission on the Holy Eucharist. Outreach efforts involve engaging with fellow migrants in parks, streets, and restaurants to invite them to Mass, and members craft handmade rosaries to share as a sign of devotion.
In response to the pandemic, the MLM relocated to Bayanihan Centre in Kennedy Town on 10 April 2021, continuing their mission there until 13 April 2024. Later in April 2024, the community moved to St. Alfred’s Church in Tai Wai to expand their outreach, and they added new ministries, such as Eucharistic Minister and Liturgical Bible Study, increasing active membership to 46 under Father Flandez’s guidance.
Father Dominic Fung, OMI, the assistant parish priest, congratulated the members and thanked former parish priest, Father Mark Anthony Serna, OMI, for his support. Sister Mary Cordero, OSF, reminded the group that their role as lay missionaries makes them witnesses of God’s love, encouraging them to continue spreading kindness and deepening their faith.
The celebration included performances by the pastoral team, a modern dance from the group known as Talking Angels, and a poetic tribute by Marivic Garay.
Father Flandez’s surprise performance later added more joy to the celebration.
Certificates of recognition were awarded to the members, acknowledging their dedication. The festivities concluded with a Mass presided over by Father Flandez, where new officers were installed, and the community sang “If We Hold On Together” to end the day on a heartfelt note. SE
