Pastoral Exposure

After the experiences of the Long Retreat and the Villa (vacation), we are missioned out to various places for 6 weeks in what we call an "experiment." In the novitiate of the Malaysia-Singapore region, we are sent for 3 pastoral experiments.

 

The experiments are very much a living out of the commitment we have made to God in the Spiritual Exercises. We are sent to minister in hospices for the aged, work, live and work with migrant workers, work as farm laborers, kitchen attendants, etc.

William is seen here working in a vegetable farm.

 

Alvin, a Malaysian novice, was sent to work with migrant workers in a farm in Cameron Highlands, Malaysia.

Richard was sent to the refugee camps on the Thai-Burma border to teach.

 

 

Richard's students at the refugee camp.

 

Our pastoral experiements offer a unique opportunity to be inserted together with migrant workers. Often, we develop friendships that enrich our own vocations as Jesuits.
Ezequiel (wearing a cap) with migrant workers.