A mission sending has always been, for our Institute, a sacred celebration. It is not simply an assignment; it is a moment of grace a visible sign that our missionary vocation is alive. To leave one’s homeland, one’s familiar surroundings, and step into the unknown is never easy. Yet it is at the heart of who we are.
For many years, I believed that such departures were meant mainly for the younger sisters. And often that was true. But during the X General Chapter, a new openness emerged: even those in midlife could be invited to new frontiers. I had already crossed that stage of life. Yet deep within, I sensed that the Gospel does not measure readiness by age. When the Lord entrusts a task, He also grants the strength needed to fulfil it.
Toward the closing days of the Chapter, I began hearing gentle conversations suggestions that my name was being considered for a new mission. I listened quietly, without allowing myself to dwell too much on it. But the thought remained within me.
Later, while attending the Sabbatical Program at the East Asian Pastoral Institute, I received a message from the Superior General. She wanted to discuss the possibility of my going to Papua New Guinea, where help was needed in the area of formation. My heart felt both joy and responsibility. I welcomed the idea, yet I knew it required sincere discernment.
Providentially, we were about to begin our spiritual exercises. In the silence of prayer, I laid the proposal before the Lord. As I reflected, I recognized many solid reasons to accept, and only minor fears that held me back. Gradually, I realized that the desire stirring in my heart was not simply my own. It was God’s invitation. That clarity filled me with deep peace and renewed energy. I understood that vocation does not diminish with time; it deepens.
Arriving in Papua New Guinea was a humbling and enriching experience. I was assigned to the community in Alotau, which served both as a formation house and a transit centre for the island communities. Everything was new the language, the customs, the daily rhythm of life.
The first months were truly a period of insertion. The young women in formation became my teachers, patiently guiding me in learning Pidgin and helping me understand the local culture. Becoming a learner again was not always easy, but it was grace-filled. I rediscovered the beauty of simplicity and openness.
Accompanying Sr. Rita Palma for the Saturday classes with the Children of Mary became another doorway into the community. Through the children, I came to know their families. Through their questions and faith, I encountered Christ in fresh ways. I also made every effort to participate in neighbourhood rosaries, Sunday liturgy preparations, and visits to the sick in homes and hospitals, bringing Holy Communion and offering prayerful presence.
Each small step of involvement helped me move from being a stranger to becoming part of the people’s journey. I realized that mission is not about doing extraordinary things; it is about being available listening, walking with, sharing life.
Looking back, I understand more deeply what Apostolic Courage truly means. It is not loud or dramatic. It is the quiet strength to say “yes” when the Lord invites us beyond our comfort. It is the willingness to begin anew, even when others may think our time for such beginnings has passed. It is trusting that grace is always greater than our limitations.
Today, I can say with gratitude that this courageous “yes” has brought profound fulfilment. In giving myself to the mission, I have received far deeper faith, wider horizons, and a renewed joy in my vocation. There is a serene satisfaction in knowing that I responded generously to God’s call, and that my life continues to bear fruit wherever He sends me.
Apostolic courage has taught me this: as long as the heart remains open, the mission continues and in that on-going “yes,” there is lasting peace and joy.
Sr. Rosilla Velamparambil, Vijayawada
