As we celebrate Mission Sunday, we are reminded of the gift of Baptism, a gift that calls every baptized person to be a missionary. The word mission means “to be sent,” and each of us is sent in our own way to bring love, hope, and faith to those in need.
I would like to share my experience of being “sent”, a journey that has spanned 49 years in mission as religious missionary, promoting Christianity in various parts of the world.
Jesus speaks clearly of this call in the Gospels:
“Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely, I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” – Matthew 28:19–20
And again:
“Go out to the whole world and proclaim the Good News to all creation.”
— Mark 16:15
These words invite us to live with missionary qualities, to be people of deep faith, compelled by love, confirmed in hope, competent in service, and committed to our calling.
In response to my Baptism, I answered the call to mission in 1973. After three years of formation, I made my religious profession on November 23, 1976.
My first mission assignment was in Hong Kong, where we ministered in hospitals caring for the sick, and in education. As a teacher, I not only taught students but also learned deeply from them and their families. Many of them had come from China, carrying stories of hardship, sacrifice, and resilience. Their deep faith and tireless work inspired and nourished my own faith.
Later, I was sent to Peru, where I served actively in parish and educational work. The people lived amidst poverty and violence caused by the Sendero Luminoso (The Shining Path), a terrorist movement that created great fear and instability. Yet, despite such hardships, the people taught me to be resilient, compassionate, and courageous. Their example gave me strength to keep going, even when danger was close.
When I returned to the Philippines, I worked among the indigenous communities in the mountains of Pangasinan. They taught me to appreciate Mother Earth — the sun, the water, and all the elements that sustain life. Through them, I rediscovered our rootedness in creation and our interconnectedness with all living things. Together, we worked to improve their living conditions, always in a spirit of gratitude.
Later, I was assigned to the United States, serving as a chaplain — first at St. Columban’s Home, then in a hospital in California. There, I continued to learn from those I ministered to. Their courage, honesty, and faith during moments of decision and suffering once again deepened my own compassion.
Two years ago, I returned to St. Columban’s Home in Silver Creek, this time not as a minister but as a patient. I was on dialysis, awaiting the possibility of a kidney transplant. The residents and community surrounded me with encouragement, hope, and prayer. Then one day, unexpectedly, I received the call — a kidney was available. What a mixture of joy and fear! But through the prayers and support of the Sisters and everyone at St. Columban’s, all went well. Indeed, miracles still happen — and here I am today.
As we celebrate Mission Sunday, we are all reminded of our call to be missionaries, disciples, and prophets — people moved by deep solidarity and compassion for those who are suffering or excluded. Let us not be mere admirers of Jesus, but true followers of Him.
Jesus’ prophetic actions were always born of compassion and solidarity. Let us follow His example, focusing not on sin, but on growth, change, and life.
And let us remember:
Our best teachers are reality and creation itself.
By Sr. Grace de Leon, SSC