I arrived in Chile in February 2022 and studied Spanish for about five months before being assigned to the parish of San Matias where I am learning missionary work from the parish priest, Fr Genovio Cho. We participate in events for youth in the parish, catechesis and meetings. By participating in the parish liturgy, I am building relationships with the parishioners.
I am learning from my missionary life that the Chileans are very family-oriented. The catechesis of First Communion sees children come with their parents, and the whole family gathers at baptisms. In addition, I have seen families participating in “La Caminata”, an event for youth, and I know that these families are also involved in the Mass. It has taught me that faith is a legacy passed down through the generations.
The type of “relationship” in the Chilean church I am experiencing is vitally important. Being a member of a community that has a family atmosphere means that family-like intimacy must be present.
I am now receiving this love. I meet people here who treat me like a son or an uncle. I am learning the love of God through the love of Chileans who accept me as part of their family community. Here, all God's people know they are brothers and sisters. For the remainder of my time in Chile, I want to share such intimacy and love with them.
Columban seminarian Joseph Seong Yoseob from Korea has recently completed his First Mission Assignment in Chile.
Listen to "Walking the path"
Related links
- Read more from The Far East - March/April 2024
