By Joan Yap

Joan is a Columban lay missionary assigned to Taiwan. Here is what she shared during her renewal of commitment with the CLM along with RP 19 on February 12, 2018.

Today is a special day as we celebrate the gift of lay vocation - a celebration of thanksgiving for Sherryl Lou Capili, Reina Mosqueda and me. We finished our second-term as Columban lay missionaries in Taiwan having learned many new things and having had memorable experiences of joys and challenges.

I worked with the Migrants’ Ministry in Taiwan. I was inspired by the stories of how migrant workers survived the challenges and the sacrifices they had to make being away from their families - stories of marriages being challenged by extra-marital affairs; survival stories of women who were sexually and physically abused in their workplace; and stories of discrimination. What sustained them was their love for their families and their faith in God. I was blessed to accompany them in their journey.

Joan renewing her commitment on February 12, 2018, CLM house, Cubao

There were times when I felt very lonely and missed my family back home. I had difficult times adjusting and living in a different culture, learning the Mandarin language, dealing with the people I worked with and many others.

One incident happened three years ago, a day before New Year. I was excited to go to the central house after my language class to celebrate New Year with my fellow lay missionaries. While walking, I was really shocked when somebody kicked me from behind and shouted, “You, Filipinos, go back to your country! You are stealing our money!” It was a Taiwanese lady. I wanted to shout back at her but I controlled myself and left.

These difficulties made me think that maybe I am not worthy to be a missionary. But faith made me see that these were lessons that helped me grow as a person and I am grateful. I was able to see how God was working in my life and felt his everyday love for me.

Being a missionary is about offering oneself to God. It requires a lot of grace from Him.

Today, Sherryl, Reina and I thank God who continues to call us to take part in His mission. As we renew our commitment, we pray for God’s love and mercy to be with us always, that we remain faithful to His call.

Joan Yap, Reina Mosqueda and Sherryl Lou Capili
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