While global warming is at its peak, there’s no doubt that it is rapidly becoming our new normal. In these present times, some places across the world have experienced the change in their climate where temperatures have risen. This has mostly affected large water-bodies which have kept on growing while others are drastically drying up. Before it gets too late, it is time that each and every human being, takes the primary responsibility to be promoters of the good of the environment. This means caring for earth’s green layer by caring for the already existing trees and planting more so as to enjoy all the benefits that come from trees: for food, for medicinal uses, for shade and wind-break, a habitat for animals and humans. The recycling of plastics that contaminate the environment could also positively contribute towards saving nature. If all could unite and work towards promoting the care for nature, life on earth could be much better than what it is now.

At Kokuselei Mission, in Turkana (Kenya), the children of St Joseph’s Konokono Centre are starting to take a lead towards promoting the care of nature through caring for trees and planting more trees that will later be beneficial for the local people living around Kokuselei. This group of children delight in cleaning the environment by collecting plastics around Kokuselei and reusing them for planting and decorative purposes. Together with the help of the missionaries at Kokuselei Mission, they have gone ahead and created St Francis of Assisi Environmental Club through which they will be coordinating activities related to the care of the environment.

All these are moves towards a better world, more beautiful and environment-friendly. The more young people grow up with this kind of sensitivity for the care of the environment, the better, as this will be a seed planted in their hearts that is assured to grow through the generations and bear good fruit.

Fridah Ejore,
MCSPA Apprentice.
Kokuselei Mission, Turkana (Kenya)

This month, the MCSPA had the privilege of engaging in two meaningful events centered on vocation promotion in the Philippines, reinforcing the Church’s commitment to inspire young people to dedicate their lives to God’s service.

It began with a visit to the Archdiocese of Jaro in Iloilo (Central Philippines), where Deacon Stephen Iyerio and Innocent Phiri met with Archbishop Jose Romeo and joined him in the Eucharistic celebration marking the conclusion of Vocation Month in the archdiocese. The celebration was a beautiful occasion of prayer and reflection, offering a moment of grace for those discerning their vocation. It was a privilege to be part of this meaningful event, as the Church in the Philippines continues to emphasize the importance of nurturing vocations, particularly among the youth. Deacon Stephen went further to encourage the seminarians, preparing for diaconate ordination, to be willing to serve even in difficult places like Turkana in Kenya.

After Iloilo, the MCSPA in Manila participated in a vocations event event of the Diocese of Cubao (Metro Manila). The gathering was a lively and inspiring occasion, filled with young people eager to learn more about the possibilities of dedicating their lives to God’s mission. The event highlighted the diverse ways in which young Catholics can serve the Church, whether through priesthood, religious life, or lay ministry. It was a beautiful encounter, with the energy and enthusiasm of the youth reminding us of the hope that the next generation brings to the Church. We also had the privilege to meet and chat with the then-bishop-elect of Cubao, Fr. Elias Lumayog Ayuban Jr., CMF, whose episcopal ordination and canonical possession will be held on Dec 03 at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.

This encounter with the youth has been truly inspiring, and we are hopeful that more will answer the call to serve as missionaries, especially in places where the need is greatest. In particular, we are praying for more young men and women to consider responding to the call to work in difficult and underserved regions, such as in Africa. The Church’s mission in such places requires dedicated and courageous individuals who are willing to bring the light of Christ to the most challenging environment.

As we continue to reflect on these experiences, we are filled with hope for the future of vocations in the Philippines and beyond. We pray that more young people will be moved by the Spirit to take the bold step of dedicating their lives to serving God’s mission, wherever they are called.

By Dionisius Kandar and Innocent Phiri
MCSPA Apprentices, Manila (Philippines)