Viriditas2: Soul Greening
Interviewed by Sister Malia Dominica Wong, OP
Hawaii Catholic Herald
My years in India were filled with opportunities to serve, especially through education and pastoral ministry. Much of my time was spent teaching in school, visiting villages and caring for the children entrusted to our boarding facilities.
In one place where I served shortly after my final profession, we cared for approximately 80 to 90 children. Another mission had a similar number, while a third had about 30.
The children were as young as kindergarten age, and caring for them meant attending to their everyday needs. We had to wake them up in the morning, keep them on schedule, prepare them for school and make sure they were cared for in every way.
It was rewarding to be with the children, but it was also challenging. Caring for so many young lives required patience, dedication and love. Looking back, I realize that ministry is not only about teaching or carrying out assigned responsibilities. It is also about being present to others and accompanying them through the ordinary moments of life.
Today, my ministry is different. I work in the office and am in charge of the Good Samaritan ministry outreach program. Although my responsibilities have changed, the call to serve others remains the same.
What keeps me going each day is prayer. I grew up in the faith, and prayer has been part of my life since childhood. It began in my family and has continued throughout my religious life.
My day often begins with the Sign of the Cross. I offer everything to the Lord — my work, my activities and whatever the day may bring.
Personal prayer is important to me, as is praying together with my religious community. Community prayer brings us together and reminds us to place everything in God’s hands.
For me, prayer is not simply a routine. It is a relationship — a place where I can bring my joys, struggles, fears and hopes. It gives me the strength to continue serving, trusting that wherever God leads me, he will be there.
Depending on the situation, I may approach Jesus as a friend, a mother or a father. When I experience difficulties or feel overwhelmed by my emotions, I sometimes go to the chapel and speak to Jesus aloud, just as I would speak to a trusted friend. I tell him everything that is in my heart. This brings me relief and helps me find peace.
I remember a time when I was encouraged to take some personal time. As I turned to my Bible, my eyes fell upon this passage: “Do not be afraid, do not be discouraged, for the Lord your God will be with you wherever you go.” (Jos 1:9) I had not noticed it before, and its words struck me deeply. It was a moment of surprise and consolation, as though God were speaking directly to me.
Those words continue to remind me that I do not walk alone. Whether I am caring for children in India, serving through outreach here or facing the uncertainties of daily life, I can place my trust in God.
Missionary Sisters of Mary Help of Christians Sister Madonna Shylla is from Kerala, India. She is 15 years professed and arrived in Hawaii 1-1/2 years ago to minister at St. Elizabeth Church in Aiea.