My experience in this 2026 Holy Week mission was deeply meaningful for me. For many years, I lived Easter within my community in the city, accompanying young people and participating in activities. It was something that was already part of my routine, a space where I felt comfortable because I knew everything it involved. However, this year I decided to take a different step.

Motivated by my community and, especially, by my catechist, who encouraged me to live the mission experience, I opened myself to the opportunity to go out and discover another reality. And today I can say with certainty that it was one of the best decisions I have ever made.

The mission took place in Puerto Plata, in a community called El Ranchito. It is a small place, divided into several villages, but with great human and spiritual richness. It is a community where everyone knows each other, where there is closeness, and where most are adults who live their faith in a very authentic way.

For me, as a young person, it was a very enriching encounter. I am used to a more active experience of faith, surrounded by young people and many activities. But there I experienced something different: a simpler faith, yet deeply rooted.

I also noticed that there were young people in the community, but many of them do not live their faith in the same way, not necessarily because of lack of interest, but because of the social realities around them. Many are influenced by their environment, by what they see, and by what they experience in their surroundings.

Something that deeply marked me was understanding that, for some of them, Holy Week does not represent a time of recollection, but rather an opportunity to go out, share, or simply disconnect. And this made me reflect deeply, because while some of us wait for that moment of encounter with the Lord who rises within us, others may not have had the opportunity to discover its meaning.

It made me question many things and value what I have more, because often, from a place of comfort, we are not aware of the spiritual richness we receive.

It was also a very human experience. I was able to share with wonderful people, create sincere bonds, and feel welcomed. I built friendships that, although formed in a short time, left a real mark on me.

This mission taught me to step out of my comfort zone, to leave what is familiar, and to make myself available for service. It reminded me that faith is not only lived from what we receive, but also from what we are able to give.

I learned that it is necessary to go out and meet others, especially those who live different realities from ours, and that in that encounter, Jesus also becomes present.

And I understood that it does not matter where or under what conditions. It does not matter if the space is small or if resources are limited. When hearts are open, the Lord always arrives. This experience left a mark on my life. It helped me grow, not only in faith, but also in my way of seeing, feeling, and serving. And without a doubt, it is a testimony I will share with others.

Mabel Amador