ECUADOR | TESTIMONIES FROM THE LATIN AMERICAN MISSIONARY ENCOUNTER (EMLA)

I named this experience: “To Be One of God’s Favorites”. It was my first mission outside my country, and I feel that God chose me to live it from the very beginning. Although I initially refused due to fear and lack of financial resources, God and His Providence played their part in allowing me to be there. The journey to Honduras was quite an adventure, but it was undoubtedly worth it. Arriving in a new country, surrounded by people whose names you only know, can be a little intimidating, but that feeling dissipates when you receive such a warm welcome. Once we were together, it only took a few hours for us to feel completely at ease, even with the Daughters of Charity and the Vincentian Fathers who accompanied us. This experience only reaffirms my belief that our Charism is etched into our souls.

Witnessing the reality of VMY in each country of Latin America motivated me to keep moving forward and reminded me that there is still much to be done in my community. The days leading up to the mission were filled with signs of God’s love for me. I felt embraced by Him in every detail, from the wonders of His Creation to the loving embrace of a fellow brother.

When we were sent on our mission after a long journey, the community welcomed us with posters and fireworks. This gesture brought tears to my eyes, and in that moment, I could only think of the words, “Go into all the world and preach the Gospel.” It is a noble and rewarding calling with all these thoughtful details.

The children always capture my heart during the mission, and this time was no different. The little missionaries from Honduras joined us every day to visit homes, even under the intense sun. Their excitement in sharing different foods with me and their eagerness to learn more about God and my country were truly remarkable. Through visiting homes and spreading our love for Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, we built bonds of trust because it is God who works through us. Now, I can confidently say that my heart is scattered throughout Latin America, but it holds a special place for Honduras. I can only express my gratitude to God for choosing me for this mission. To Jesus with Mary!

Karla Loor

VMY Ecuador