The Missionaries of Charity: Strong and Steadfast
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We face a new world order—a new president in the United States and our own President Duterte are challenging and changing conventional norms and the way things are done. President Donald Trump’s come-from-behind victory has taught us to expect the unexpected and receive change as a fact of life. However, there are values that must remain timeless and efforts that must continue, unhampered by bureaucracy, greed, or the unpredictability of the economy. The values of Rotary as exemplified by the Four-Way Test have not changed and continue to persevere. Truth, fairness, friendship, and goodness must be the hallmark of our life and decision-making process. Similarly, the principles and example of Mother Teresa serves as a model for many volunteers around the world. Mother Teresa’s ascent to the sainthood and the longevity and global reach of her order are testaments to her enduring love and care for even the smallest communities.
This year marks the 18th year of the annual Mother Teresa excursion hosted by the Rotary Club of Makati Dasmariñas (RCMD) District 3830. On November 19, 2016, the Rotary team braved the Manila traffic to show their support for the hard working Missionaries of Charity sisters. This year’s team was composed of JP Dela Vega, Current President, Jan Ong, Rotarian and Director for Public Image, Onuora Daniels, Rotarian, Tony Go, Rotarian, and his family, and Kim Epino, Chief of Staff of the President. The Rotarians who came to the event not only worked hard, but also displayed the commitment of the club and the values it stands for. Current President JP Dela Vega also shared some thoughts with the group and inspired the Rotary team towards an exciting 2017.
The event began with a few introductions and details of the sisters’ great work in their beautiful Tayuman, Manila home. The Rotary team then proceeded to help unload and carry the goods, which consisted of various foodstuffs, from two large trucks to a small side warehouse. After all items were accounted for, the sisters then gave a tour of the old yet lively facilities, consisting of the Home of the Children and the Home for the Aged. Despite caring for more than 100 individuals with varying physical and mental conditions, the sisters remained true to their calling and showered limitless love on the inhabitants. The Missionaries of Charity was represented by Sisters Maricor MC, Gemma MC, and Maria Fe MC, who were all led by Superior Sister Rasmi MC. Their diversity, with many sisters hailing from different countries, brings a lot of life to the landscape and enriches the homely little community. After the visit, the Rotary team was treated to a sumptuous lunch at Lutong Macao, a years-long club tradition.
Even after many years, the love of the Missionaries of Charity is still refreshing to behold and stands as a pillar of light in the darkness. As our nation works to find an identity and purge its demons, we should look to the Missionaries of Charity as an example of what nation-building should be—compassionate and unconditional in service. The Rotary team commends the sisters for their tireless dedication to develop programs for the Homes and its residents. 2017 will be a year of unpredictability, but the Rotary Club of Makati Dasmariñas and the Missionaries of Charity remain steadfast and firm in their commitments to the betterment of Filipino communities.
Special thanks to our club mate Tony Go and his family for their effort and generosity in heading this annual activity. Thank you also to our excellent club mates who have come together in order to make this initiative possible. We have been doing this for over a decade and it has sustained support. With you, we can do more!
Article by Anthony Gokianluy