Day 8

Another enormous and wonderful day. After Morning Prayer, Mass and Breakfast, we headed off for a full day in the brothers' care facility.
We divided the group into three, to care for the men, women and children. Each group had a differently marvellous experience. Those working with the women cut their nails, sang and danced with them, prayed the rosary with them and served them lunch. Those working with the men, sang for and with them, prayed with them, played with them, and served them lunch. Those working with the children fed them, bathed them, nursed them and played with them.
After lunch, I went briefly shopping. I bought children and adults a small statue and a rosary. The rest of our group continued their good works. Apparently, they really felt depleted. But, they kept going. It as truly admirable and we adults are so proud of each and every one without exception.
They arrived home at about 3.30pm and, after bathing, began packing for their departure. This involved creating a mountain of items which we are leaving for the brothers and the poor.
At 5pm we moved to the chapel, for evening prayer. After evening prayer, we were given a lovely book on St Clare for spiritual reading. Most were very moved by her story of becoming poor for Christ. Evening prayer finished, as always, with the rosary.
As it is our last night in Naga, we shared a meal with the brothers and, more importantly, we shared our stories. After dinner, it was concert time. The brothers danced and sung for us. We danced and sang for them. The brothers expressed their deep gratitude to us for our presence, support, and service. We were overwhelmed. They also gave us gifts.... a book of the history of the MOPs and a T-shirt. We now have a travel shirt for the journey home.
The night ended with group sharing, my gift giving on behalf of our parishes, and some singing practise. We are going to sing the Irish Blessing over the brothers tomorrow morning.