By Fr. Cresencio Suarin

I arrived at Lahore International Airport via Karachi on April 30, 1993. As I went to the Baggage Claim Area to collect my belongings, to my surprise, my baggage could not be found. However I was assured that I would get it after a few days.

I went to the reception hall and saw the Philippine flag waved by the smiling Filipino lay missionaries (the late Pilar Tilos and Emma Pabera) together with Columban Fathers Tom, Paul and P. J. Kelly. They warmly welcomed me with their garlands.

The years have passed and not it is time to say farewell to my host country – Pakistan.

Mission Changed Me

My experience in Pakistan has changed my outlook in life, priesthood, mission, religion, culture and people. These valuable experiences have challenged me to plunge into the deep ocean knowing that people are basically good, hospitable and warm. I was able to go the unknown because I know that God is already there before I step in. my mission experiences were not all a bed of roses but mixture of joy and the sorrows, laughter and pains fulfillment and dissatisfactions.

First Difficulties

I guess every missionary has to undergo the process of purgation and Paschal Mystery before one is ready to unload and unclean the previous chapter of his life and to face the unavoidable struggle to learn the new realities. I struggled to learn the language of the people, adjust to their food (too much chill), Islamic culture, weather (can be very hot and cold), people (aggressive and demanding). These were my difficulties at he beginning of the first term.

Muslims All Around

As I worked in Pakistan which is 97% Muslim. I carried with me the unforgettable experiences of two of my brothers who were killed by Muslim rebels in Mindanao. God’s invitation to forgive our enemies is a perpetual challenge. The bias against the Muslims that says a good Muslim is a dead Muslim turned out to be totally false because my experiences with them has been fairly positive, enriching and life-giving. In fact it has lead me to healing, forgiveness and reconciliation. Since our house rectory is in the middle of Muslim community my daily living with them strengthens and solidifies my trust in them.

Sustaining Proverb

One proverb that I learned which sustained me to continue and work in Pakistan is the: Be patient because the fruit of patience is sweet. People taught me to be patient, understanding and considerate. These things happened especially during nicah – a wedding where the concerned party informed us that the nicah will be at 4:00p.m. But they arrived at the church at 7:00 p.m. it was also true of other schedules like meetings, invitations and programs in the parish. When they have celebrations (weddings, birthdays, funerals and other functions) the road will be closed be because they will use the road for their space. The motorists have to find their own way to reach their destinations. It takes a lot of patience to understand and accept the culture and the way they do their things which are different for mine, in Pakistan, being a violent society, I learned to trust God more that things will be fine despite the unavoidable violence and dangers that occurred everyday.

Things I Learned

My six years mission experience in Pakistan has become part of life. I would like to share some of my insights as priest and missionary assigned in a Muslim country:

(1) Fears, suspicions and prejudice are barriers to a meaningful and fruitful dialogue with our Muslim brother and sisters. I believe that true dialogue only comes when Christians and Muslims treat each one as equals. At present there is a big gap between Muslims and Christians.

(2) I received and learned more form people (Christian and Muslims) than what I gave.

(3) I need to learn and integrate these Asian religions Christianity, Islam, Hindu, Buddhism) which are very alive in Pakistan so that I can respect each religion and work towards a common vision for peace in Asia.

(4) For a diocesan priest to work in the missions, it is quite difficult compared to missionaries whose training is really for the missions.

(5) Pakistan means the land of pure/ it is in this sacred place that God invited me to purify my thoughts, actions, motivations, desires and plans so that I may experience and see God in every creature and event.

Once again I would like to reiterate my sincere thanks and gratitude for all who have helped and supported me to make my mission in Pakistan a memorable event.