Page 38 - Demo

36 Beloved,I am blessed and grateful. Volunteering has been an integral part of my life for many years. Reflecting on my countless volunteer missions, I realize that each mission feels as exciting as the first. Every time I embark on a new mission, I am filled with the same excitement and determination to give my very best. I approach each mission with the belief that is a divine calling, a task God has entrusted me, and I strive to put more effort and dedication into each one. This year was no exception, our mission in Villa El Salvador was particularly memorable, marked by the incredible team and family we formed and the profound impact we made. I will begin by presenting our exceptional team: Hongchul Lee SSN, Scholastica Na SSN, Yong Jun Kim SSN, Thomas Lee and the wonderful Sisters. What an incredible family we built. Although we deeply felt the absence of Andres SSN, his spirit and legacy he built over the years guided us through. His influence was a constant reminder of the dedication and love required to complete our mission successfully. This year, God entrusted us with the task of building a house for the family of Se%u00f1ora Emilia and Se%u00f1or Fredo. The physical labor involved was intense, particularly for those of us unaccustomed to such a strenuous work. However, knowing that it was God%u2019s will, we embraced the challenged with responsibility and love, allowing everything to flow smoothly. Our faith and determination fueled our efforts, transforming the arduous task into a fulfilling journey. Evey moment of this mission is cherished, the memories are vivid: walking up the stairs, sharing lunch at the hilltop, taekwondo classes, participating in Mass, and simply spending time together. Each activity, whether mundane or significant, was imbued with meaning and joy, reinforcing our sense of purpose and unity. Living this way, sharing with our brothers and sisters and serving according to God%u2019s will, is a beautiful experience. As we placed the final touches on the house, a wave of emotions washed over us. The family%u2019s joy and gratitude were palpable, making every drop of sweat and aching muscle worth it. Their smiles were a testament to the power of community and the importance of giving back. It reminded me why we volunteer: to make a tangible difference in the lives of others. Volunteering for blessings, an important part of life.PERU-VILLA EL SALVADORYacil Sayas, (Tuesday June 25, 2024)