Reaction to 30th Filipino Pilgrimage at Martyrs's Shine.

2010 Martyrs' Shrine Pilgrimage
Annual event focuses on migrant workers as witnesses
By Faye Arellano

Being away from home, loved ones and families, migrant workers are confronted with real challenges in life. For some, they find comfort and encouragement when they interpret their new experiences in the light of their faith. Even the most difficult situation and sufferings take on new meanings when seen with the eyes of faith in life,s journey.

Full of hope and relying heavily on their faith, hundreds of caregivers came out and took part in the 30th annual pilgrimage to the Canadian Martyrs' Shrine in Midland, Ontario on August 7, 2010. Together with the multitudes of faithful, caregivers brought with them all their intentions for themselves and their loved ones to the holy ground.

The annual gathering was also a stirring reminder for the pilgrims that life itself is a journey toward the ultimate destination.

With this year's theme, "Migrant Workers and Refugee, Witnesses and Mission for the World," the pilgrimage was a project of the Archdiocesan Filipino Catholic Mission (AFCM) and hosted by the Filipino Canadian Catholic Charismatic Prayer Communities (FCCCPC).

In the wake of the communion, all caregivers were called to the front facing the papal altar to receive a blessing and affirmation that they are witnesses of Christ on a mission. These caregivers travel far and wide to take care of those who are in need.

AFCM Director Fr. Ben Ebcas, Jr. gave his blessing and thanked the caregivers for their selfless dedication in their work caring for the young, the elderly and people with disabilities.

He also reminded the faithful, "that all of us are caregivers, because we give care and that we care for one another as witnesses of Christ."

He challenged everyone present to come to the aid of those caregivers who fall through the cracks of the system and are in dire need of help.

"Who will respond to those caregivers who are sick? Who will respond to those who are lonely and isolated?" Fr. Ben asked the crowd in earnest.

The pilgrimage drew thousands of Catholics, predominantly Filipinos, from all walks of life. Members of various charismatic communities such as El Shaddai, Couples for Christ (CFC), Loved Flock and Bukas Loob sa Diyos (BLD), to name a few, figured prominently at the Shrine. A lively praise and worship ushered in the entry of an assortment of flags and banners from different prayer groups.

A concelebrated Mass was the highlight of the spiritual event, after which a procession of the Holy Monstrance followed immediately.

Various socio-cultural presentations and games at noon served to keep the pilgrims from having a dull moment. Even the weather, a mix of sun and gentle breeze, cooperated fully to the delight of the crowd.

A communion of resources took shape during the lunchtime picnic as pilgrims enjoyed breaking bread with those around them. There was an abundance of food on the table that was offered and shared by everyone in attendance. It was certainly safe to say that no one went home hungry that day.

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