As I formally begin my Canali program, I am blessed by how God works in my life, sending good people for me to deeply understand my vocation. I am thrilled to share my experience from the first month working in the different communities to which I am assigned: Our Lady of Lourdes Sunnybank and Emmanuel City Mission.
In OLOL Parish, I have met great people such as Fr Enoch (Parish Priest) Fr. Francisco (Assistant Parish Priest), Miss Pam (Parish Coordinator) and Miss Felicity (Saturday Mass Coordinator). They have supported me with my desire to be part of the different roles in the parish such as Eucharistic Minister, Reader and Mass collector. The parishioners were also welcoming and vibrant, coming from diverse multi-cultural backgrounds.
Before I started my participation, Miss Pam asked me first to go through the safeguarding protocols set by the Parish and Archdiocese of Brisbane. I also had an orientation with Miss Felicity regarding the various roles in the parish. She asked if I was available and could actively support every Saturday evening mass. Without hesitation, I responded with a yes.
Last Saturday, before the mass begin, I had the opportunity to be part of the welcoming team handing over newsletters to the parishioners. I had also the chance to help collect donations during the offertory. During the communion, I had a wonderful experience as the Eucharistic Minister assigned to distribute the Sacred Host. It was a beautiful experience, I found meaning and consolation as I have shared the body of Christ to the faithful.
In ECM, I have met a dynamic, welcoming and life-giving community especially the City Mission volunteers: Robie Jr., Robie Sr., Rita, Dave, Jeane, Daniel and Christian. These people really inspired me how passionate and whole-hearted their service to the needy. ECM is a place where everyone is welcome and accepted with love and dignity. I have witness how the volunteers carried the image of Jesus into the homeless and poor by providing them the necessary needs. I have witness the selflessness of the volunteers as they engaged with the guests. Despite occasional conflicts among guests, they showed patience, opened their listening ears and offered kind service impartially. I have witness one of the guest knelt in front of the venerated Sacred Host praying sincerely which deeply moved me that God works in all of us. I as continuously volunteering myself every Saturday morning at ECM, I have met interesting people who have chosen to volunteer in the service for others without counting the cost. ECM had really a special place in my heart especially in understanding and seeing those people who really in need the most.
Every Sunday, I have attended also mass with the Emmanuel community. I have witness how dedicated and gifted the community which i considered it as a welcoming family. There were no dull moments since lots of activities they offered for the children, youth and adult which are all centered into the life and mission of the Church. Recently, Luke and Brittanny responded of my desire to volunteer every Sunday mass at ECM as a Reader and Eucharistic Minister. I am happy that they have considered me and will include me in the upcoming Mass schedules.
Indeed, everything unfolds in God’s grace. I am thankful that He is giving me wonderful people with so much love and dedication in the service of the Church. His surprises continually amaze me. I pray that I can remain open to His Holy Spirit’s promptings, allowing me to discern deeply where He is leading me.
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