On Sundays, the people of San Josef normally go to the Multipurpose Hall to celebrate the Liturgy of the Word and to receive Communion.  But November 22 was not an ordinary Sunday for them.  It was not only the Word of the Lord and the Body of Christ that they received on that day but also medicines and the services of medical practitioners.  It was Medical Mission Day organized by the Camillian Task Force!

A task force  composed of 29 volunteers that included ten doctors, five dentists, several nurses, PT’s, CHVs, fourth year collegians, and five scholastics went to a mountainous area (probably a 45 minute drive from Boso-boso) to serve more than 1,560 persons who seldom see doctors in their lives. The team reached the area at 9:30 am.

It was surprising and inspiring to see the many people (mostly from the mountains) who walked more than three hours just to be there. This showed how much they needed this kind of service, considering that they were affected by the recent typhoons.

After the celebration of the Word the people organized themselves into long queues. They lined up for the medical, dental, pediatric and OB consultations and services.  They also had the benefit of laboratory services provided in a makeshift laboratory.  Available medicines were also given. The Education Team gave a lecture about common diseases such as Tuberculosis, Dengue and Leptospirosis.  Hand washing, and of course, the life of St. Camillus were tackled in a ‘special’ session.

Unexpectedly, the entire operation was completed at around 2:00 PM.  Indeed, the mission was so organized that in just five hours, more than one thousand people were served.  We could call it a success - we helped the people and the people helped us. They helped us realize some important matters in life.  (It’s up to those who were there to figure that out.)

Heartfelt gratitude to all those who joined the mission and shared their time, talent and treasure.  May we always be graced with a serving heart.  Our mission has not ended. There are still many more sick brothers and sisters who need the Camillian touch!  Till next time!