The bustling classroom, alive with children’s cheerful chatter, has become my full time ministry. At first, I was flustered—mixing Korean, English, Filipino, and even the children’s names. Yet their laughter taught me to laugh along and gently accept my own shortcomings.

The five year olds, most of them raised in high rise apartments, look puzzled when I tell them my community house is only one story high. Though they have everything they need, their hearts showed genuine sorrow when gazing at photos of starving children in Africa or collecting donations for UNICEF. And though most are not Catholic, they all join in the mealtime prayer. Watching them shout a loud “Amen!” and offer thanks for their food is simply beautiful.

Since March, I have cared for the one year olds—our little angels. Feeding them, changing diapers, and playing together teaches me about the pure, untainted state of a soul. As they lean into my arms and find peace, I feel a deep desire to protect them.

With a new assignment ahead, I know these little ones will not remember me. Yet I pray that the warmth, security, and joy we shared will remain engraved in their hearts and minds. This reflection led me to my own life: how much unseen, unremembered love from countless people has nurtured me? Because of that invisible love, I exist today. I am filled with gratitude. Is this not exactly how God our Father loves us? There are many hidden Daughters of Charity… nameless saints. Though our departed Sisters are not remembered by name, the world’s narrow alleys became brighter because of the love they quietly poured out.

When I once questioned the meaning of my apostolate, my spiritual director reminded me of the greatness of being a warm haven during a child’s most critical formative years. At a time that felt like a crisis—fresh out of the seminary, unsure of what I could offer—the Lord drew out my potential, helped me lay everything down, and revealed His love through others. Realizing how much richer my life has become, I praise the Lord and sing a song of joy.