I have been reflecting on my experiences in the tribal ministry – among both the Parkari Kohlis and the Punjabis. Over the past five years, I have witnessed various approaches to life. I have even written a number of stories. These continual encounters have made me feel grateful and blessed — truly a gift for those called to this vocation.
My arrival here in Pakistan wasn’t particularly promising. It took a lot of observation and trial and error to understand how each group of people responded to the church. The challenges we faced were significant battles that we had to confront together. However, ongoing visits and personal encounters have allowed me to become part of their life journey. In a sense, I have become one of them. The latest memorable encounter was with the Punjabi women. I was excited when they responded to our invitation one Sunday!
The women were pleased that a group was being formed for them, and they began sharing their faith in the Blessed Virgin Mary. Our primary aim was to go house to house to pray the rosary. However, I soon realized that most of the women weren’t familiar with how to pray the rosary. It took us a few meetings for everyone to grasp the process, but it went well. By the time we reached the fifth or sixth family that month, they knew it by heart.
Next, we wanted them to lead the rosary themselves. Unfortunately, I realized that only two or three of the women could read. They were open about their reading difficulties, which left me pondering what to do next. Eventually, Baji Mariam Saleem was chosen as their leader and took the initiative to lead the rosary from time to time.
As time went by, another mother approached me and asked to join the group. I was thrilled that they were coming forward and showing interest. Shortly after, one mother followed another, and soon four young girls expressed their desire to join us! Even at their young age and with their soft voices, they took part in leading the mysteries. What a wonderful movement of the Blessed Virgin!
I believe that the faith of these girls and women is being stirred and touched by the Holy Spirit. The dedication I see from them every week, as they go from house to house, is not constant but growing. Empowering them to lead a group has been a significant step, especially in this kind of society where women are suppressed and not allowed to share their talents. I am amazed at how the movement of the Holy Spirit continues to lead them.
I believe that the faith of these girls and women is being stirred and touched by the Holy Spirit.
Just like Mother Mary, who loves the church, these women embody her spirit. Their love and commitment to spreading joy by visiting every home and praying the rosary together have strengthened both their faith and that of the little girls who accompany them. Regardless of their commitments at home or work, their dedication and passion every Tuesday are unmatched.
On one occasion, we held the rosary at my place. Everyone was there, and I was delighted to have them. I am truly touched by how they are progressing and improving in their approach to the rosary. One woman led the prayers beautifully, offering intentions with each mystery. Listening to her prayers moved me, particularly when she prayed for me and my family. After the rosary, I struggled to find the right words to express my gratitude, but I thanked them sincerely from the bottom of my heart.
The power of prayer sustains me in my daily life, and it becomes even more powerful when we pray together as a community. I feel incredibly blessed to be part of such a supportive group, especially when God’s blessings come when we least expect them. I thank God for their dedication and faith in reaching out to other families in our parish. My ongoing prayer for them — and I encourage you to pray for them too — is that they may always be as courageous as their patron, Mother Mary, and continue their mission to spread love throughout the communities in Badin.
Columban lay missionary Mona Esteban lives and works in Pakistan.
