By Sr Elizabeth Munggai FSIC, Kota Kinabalu, Sabah
Apr 25 2023
Besides the sweet smell of flowers, there were countless thorns, thunderstorms, sorrow, and pain, but in the midst of it all, a rainbow appears, giving me the courage and hope to shine.
When I was in primary school, I was struggling to cope with my studies and hostel life. So, I made a deal with God, “Lord, if I get through my final exam, I will offer my life to You.” Little did I know what the outcome would be.
Some years later, the parish priest from the Church of St John, Tuaran and the late Fr Gerard Preyde visited our chapel, St Joan of Arc, in Kg Logkou Baru, Telipok.
He asked if I was still in school or if I was working. With a big smile, I remember saying, “No Father, at the moment I am waiting for my Form Five exam results?”
“Oh fine! While waiting for your result, why don’t you help conduct the Sunday services in your kampung?” Our chapel didn’t have a catechist at that time.
I told him I knew nothing about the Church’s teachings, but he assured me that he’d send me for training.
Obediently, I accepted the offer as I didn’t have a valid reason to refuse it and, I wanted to give it a try. Deep within my heart, I questioned if it was what the Lord wanted me to do. I also began reflecting on my earlier ‘deal’ with the Lord.
I recall Fr Gerard asking about my plans for the future, and I quickly replied, “Missionary!” without knowing what it was all about.
He explained that to become a missionary, I needed to study Theology, but I did not take him seriously. I was not aware that those events were the beginning of my calling and that God was opening my heart to His divine invitation.
As Fr Gerard promised, he sent me for a month-long catechist’s course in Pusat Latihan Katekis (PUSKAT), Keningau. Upon returning, I was thrilled to hear I’d passed my Form Five exams.
From then, with the little knowledge I had, I conducted catechism lessons for my kampung people. I also helped with clerical work at the parish office.
During that time, I felt something missing in my life and that I wanted to do more for the Church. I expressed my desire to a priest, and he advised me to join the vocation seminar, which eventually helped my decision to join a religious order.
In January 1983, I joined the Franciscan Sisters of Immaculate Conception (FSIC) as an aspirant. It took me two years to discern my vocation and I entered as a postulant on March 25, 1985. I made my first profession on Dec 7, 1987, and my final profession on Dec 8, 1992.
Religious life wasn’t always smooth sailing. Besides the sweet smell of flowers, there were countless thorns, thunderstorms, sorrow, and pain, but in the midst of it all, a rainbow appears, giving me the courage and hope to shine. Jesus made it possible for me to go through this passage until now.
Looking back at my journey over 30 years, I praise and thank Jesus for His goodness and faithfulness and for the wonders He has done in my life.
If I had not joined the religious life, I would have regretted it, as this is where I find fulfilment. Praise the Lord! – Herald Malaysia
