Alma Misionera (A Missionary Soul)

CEBU, Philippines - There are persons who consecrate themselves to the service of the Lord and of our Mother Church and still opt to serve others in a strange land. This is what we call “mision ad gentes”, a mission away from one’s own country. This idea has found its reality in the person of Sr. Maria Elena Echavarren y Sorbet, a native of Navarra, Spain, who turned 50 in religious life.

Sr. Elena celebrated her Golden Anniversary of Religious Profession recently. The celebration of the Holy Mass was celebrated in the convent and apostolic house of the Capuchin Tertiary Sisters, Luis Amigó Ladies’ Dormitory Chapel. The Mass presider was Fr. Javier Cabezas, TC and concelebrated by Fr. Charles, MOLA and Fr. Elson, OFM. The celebration of God’s love and fidelity was also attended by some benefactors and friends who are always ready to help in any way possible 

 She lived with vigor for the mission and indeed she is a Missionary Soul. She had her first religious profession on January 27, 1960 in Spain. At the age of 45, in 1986, she became the General Superior of the Congregation of the Capuchin Tertiary Sisters of the Holy Family. She took care of the whole congregation for 12 years. After her term, she chose to continue her mission here in the Philippines, the only Catholic country in Asia. Since 1999, she has tirelessly served the Lord in obedience, poverty and chastity through the Filipino people.

The occasion I presented may sound strange and confusing. This kind of life is somewhat abnormal and mysterious to some. But nevertheless, we all have a Missionary Soul and we are all called to do our little missions. Regardless of race, color and religion, we are called by the Supreme Being to be His witnesses and bearers of peace and love in our country or in a strange land. All we need to do is to listen to the voice within us and be attentive to the soft whispers of the Lord. Whether you are a priest, nun, married person or single, you have a missionary soul in you. You can begin your mission now...at home.