Viriditas2: Soul Greening
Interviewed by Sister Malia Dominica Wong, OP
Hawaii Catholic Herald
Once a year, I have the blessing of returning home to visit my parents. Every day, for the past 20 years of my religious profession, and even five years before that, I pray for them, entrusting them to God’s loving care.
It is not always easy being so far away, but I take comfort in knowing they are held in his hands. God knows them more deeply than I ever could, and that brings me peace. I’m also grateful that my siblings help care for them; their love allows me to serve freely where I am called.
My faith began with my parents. Born in the 1930s in China, they grew up at a time when PIME (Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions) priests from Hong Kong visited their area.
My parents never had formal theological training, but their faith was deep, simple and unshakable. They lived it quietly and consistently. You could see it through their kind and good actions, not their words. That steadfast witness became a lasting example for me and my siblings.
When our family moved to Hawaii, we attended Mass at the Cathedral of Our Lady of Peace, where I received my first Communion and confirmation. My grandmother, who lived in Makiki, would take the bus to the cathedral, and we’d meet her there for Mass. On days she couldn’t attend, we went to St. Theresa Church.
Later, we often joined the Chinese community for Mass at Star of the Sea Church. Those early experiences rooted my faith deeply in both family and community.
Today, I serve as part of the leadership team for the Daughters of St. Paul (FSP) in Boston. Here in Hawaii, there are five promised cooperators who renew their commitments annually in the presence of an FSP sister. Their most recent renewal took place at the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace on Sept. 27. Witnessing their dedication and faithfulness inspires me; it reminds me of how the Spirit continues to move through our lay partners in mission.
As a leader, I’ve learned that prayer is essential. We must trust deeply in God, especially amid the uncertainties of the world and of religious life. Only God is constant, only God is sure. My advice is simple: “Pray more and keep going.”
During my daily hour of adoration before the Blessed Sacrament, I often find myself questioning God more than I used to. But that, too, is prayer. What matters most is honesty, being open with God and with ourselves.
God doesn’t ask us to be theologians or to recite perfect prayers. God already knows us completely. Yet, he invites us to speak freely, like a dear friend sharing everything — our joys, struggles, worries and gratitude. That is the simple, sincere relationship that my parents modeled so naturally. And, as our founder, Blessed James Alberione, said, “Even if your toe hurts, tell God about it.” God listens.
At top: Sister An Mei Lam with her parents, Rui Lan and An Dang.