Seeds of Charity: The Mission Journey in Thailand
On 27 August 1969, the Philippine Province accepted the invitation of the Redemptorist Fathers to assist in the care of people suffering from Hansen’s disease. The first Filipina Sisters sent were Sr. Delia Rubica and Sr. Mercedes Dagoob. To support them in this mission, the West Central Province of the USA also sent two Sisters—Sr. Mary Kearney and Sr. Lorraine Velentin—who helped the Filipina Sisters become familiar with the specialized care required for those afflicted with Hansen’s disease.
“…no type of distress should be foreign to them…” (C.11)
The mission of the Sisters gradually evolved from direct nursing care to the establishment of projects and programs such as the Nutrition Program, the Shoe Project, and educational assistance. They also extended their service to people with disabilities, pioneering the community-based rehabilitation program. With compassion and perseverance, the Sisters opened the hearts of families, encouraging them to welcome their children with disabilities back into the embrace of family life.
As new needs emerged, more missionaries were sent to strengthen the mission. In time, another deadly disease arose—HIV/AIDS. With unwavering dedication, the Sisters selflessly served those afflicted. Thanks to the advances of science, treatment and hope became possible, transforming lives once marked by despair.
From their mission in Thailand, the Daughters of Charity set forth to Cambodia on 14 June 1999, responding to the invitation of Msgr. Enrique Figaredo, SJ, Apostolic Prefect of Battambang. The Sisters contributed significantly through their apostolate, which included:
• Day Care
• Child and Youth Development
• Health Services
• Pastoral Care
In the midst of many challenges, the Sisters remained steadfast and faithful to their mission, embodying the spirit of service and compassion at the heart of their vocation.
On 21 June 1999, the Daughters of Charity extended their mission to Laos, at the invitation of Msgr. Jean-Kamse Vithavong, OMI, Bishop of the Diocese of Vientiane. The Sisters faithfully served through the following ministries:
• Care for the elderly and the sick
• Child and youth development
• Family development
• Support for safe migration
• Pastoral ministry to Filipinos in Laos
• English language instruction and value formation in the Seminary
• Finance and administration of Caritas Laos
"...when you gave yourself to God to serve the poor...you received the name which God himself has given you... (St. Vincent de Paul. Conference of 4 March 1658.)
