In September 2013, we launched the ND Brethren House with excitement to meet children in need of us as well as fear of the challenges of the new ministry. Now it has been 10 years since we have been missioned to the ND Brethren House. This children’s home with 80 young residents initially, is now home to 51 children with more than 40 who left our protection after reaching adult age. Looking back at the past 10 years of countless joys and hardship, we are so grateful for God’s grace.
In September of this year, we celebrated the 10th anniversary with our benefactors, who have accompanied and helped us with this ministry. We started with a Mass by Archbishop Simon Ok of Gwangju diocese. The celebration was comprised of playing the video clip of the 10 year-commemoration, awarding a contribution plaque to the first director of the house, Sr. Marie Magdalene; awarding an appreciation plaque to benefactors; awarding a prize to the staff for working more than 10 years and offering a scholarship to some former residents. The speech of Sr. Marie Justina, the provincial, made us think of what changed over the past years and what part of the Brethren House should remain unchanged.
The ceremony was followed by a garden party for the nourishment of our bodies. We had a delicious meal with our children who were the day’s leading characters, former residents, the bishop, priests, associates of Gwangju, benefactors, and staff. This day closed with the presentation of a gift for everyone.
It was a moment filled with wishes for constant support based on mutual interest, concern, and encouragement. Holding each one of the children in our hearts, we pray that (s)he who does not know parents’ love might be fully loved and learn how to love and share it.
“Praise the God of heaven, for his mercy endures forever.” (Psalm 136,26)
by Dreamhost