We harvest not just fruit, but also wisdom, faith, and deep, abiding love
I live with the Atayal community in the mountains of the Hsinchu Diocese, Taiwan, where I am known by my aboriginal name, MaHong. I serve in eight churches within the parish, and my ministry includes leading Communion services, visiting parishioners in the hospital, facilitating youth activities, and supporting house prayers and community gatherings.
The Atayal people primarily make their living through agriculture - growing fruits like persimmons, peaches, and oranges, as well as cultivating vegetables. In the past, they hunted wild animals such as roe deer, wild pigs, and flying squirrels as staple foods. Nowadays, hunting is more for recreation or traditional celebrations.
To understand the lives of the people I serve, I often help them with their daily work. In the beginning, I felt nervous and unsure - I had no farming experience - but these moments became opportunities to connect more deeply. Recently, I joined in harvesting oranges for the first time.
We gathered early in the morning and climbed the steep mountain paths to reach the orchard. The slopes were narrow and rugged. Orange harvest season runs from mid-November to mid-March and is a vital time for local families. Oranges are especially popular around Lunar New Year, bringing in essential income.
As a beginner, I started picking from the lower branches. I was struck by how strong each branch was, holding so much fruit. Watching the farmers work, I saw a reflection of their care as parents - supporting their children, each different in shape and colour, yet all coming from the same roots. This image reminded me of the heart of God, who lovingly cares for each of us. Harvesting oranges became a moment of deep spiritual reflection and gratitude.
At lunchtime, we gathered to eat simple but satisfying “bento” lunch boxes. When the meal ended, I was surprised to see everyone stretch out on cardboard boxes in the shade. “MaHong, rest!” one parishioner smiled. I followed their lead, lying down as the breeze gently swept over us. That breeze felt like God’s quiet presence - subtle, soothing, and close.
After our nap, we returned to work. Everyone had a role - some sorted the oranges by size, others checked quality, packed boxes, or marked labels. I was in charge of sorting the fruit by size. Though it required focus, I enjoyed the teamwork and the sense of rhythm we developed. It was uplifting to share in the fruits of our labor, working together toward a common goal. At the end of the day, we celebrated with snacks, drinks, and stories.
Through this experience, I learned how deeply the Atayal people trust in God. They are grateful for the harvest and aware of their dependence on the land - and on divine grace. Living with them has taught me the beauty of humility and the power of gratitude.
Their resilience is remarkable. One of our churches burned down several years ago, and although we’ve raised only half the necessary funds for rebuilding, the community continues its efforts with faith and determination, even after setbacks caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
I am constantly inspired by their ability to care for one another. Whether it’s visiting the sick, praying in times of hardship, or simply offering support, the Atayal people embody love in action. Their greetings reflect this spirit. We say “Tianzhu Baoyou” - “May God bless and protect you” - in Chinese Catholic tradition, and “Lokah”, the Atayal word for “Cheer up!”
Through their lives and faith, I’ve come to know the living God more intimately. Every shared meal, every task in the orchard, every prayer spoken in community has become a lesson in love and service. Being part of this journey is a profound gift.
As I continue my life as a missionary, I carry with me the joy of walking alongside the Atayal people - harvesting not just fruit, but also wisdom, faith, and deep, abiding love.
Columban lay missionary Bae Sihyeon lives and works in Taiwan.
Related links
- Read more from the current Columban PEJ eBulletin
