Encounter June 13–14, 2026

A two-day gathering dedicated to tireless mission of charity and team building is an excellent way to renew the energy of volunteers. It also helps to maximize engagement and comfort and gives structure to help prepare a way to a reflection on a good Samaritan. “Driven by compassion and fuelled by an unwavering spirit, their tireless dedication turns everyday acts of service into profound, lasting change for those who need it most.” “Volunteers do not necessarily have the time; they simply have the heart” stated Elizabeth Andrew “You make a living by what you get. You make a life by what you give.” Is attributed to Winston Churchill “Volunteers not only having the time, but also they have the love for others.” Meeting with volunteers preparing for a mission reveals how profound are the participants in the journey that transforms one from a simple “I’m here to help” into a deeper relationship of “I’m here to learn. ” Sitting among volunteers highlights the strong points of quiet dedication and a shared humanity that drive cross-cultural service. The atmosphere in the room was filled with certainty rather than fear. It was alive with a unique combination of excitement and deep spirituality. When people gather to prepare for a mission, they bring more than just physical presence, They bring their own life stories, preconceived notions, and an eager desire to do good. Observing these meetings reveals several quiet realities about the human spirit and what it truly means to serve.

The Fragility or Sensibility of stepping into the Unknown: Before a single plane is boarded or the first brick is laid, the emotional and mental preparation is strength Preparing Emotionally for Missionary Service. Sitting in a circle, volunteers often share the personal anxieties that accompany their decisions. They worry about the language barrier, the physical toll of a new environment, and whether their presence will genuinely be a blessing or an unintended disruption. Being empathetic during sharing strips away fear, binding the team together in a way that each one feel free to express. The goals are to develop a close relationship and a deeper understanding of the charism of the service of the Sisters of Charity. The participants reflect on short-term volunteering service through the parable of the good Samaritan. Listening becomes the most essential skill.

Volunteers learn to allow their worldview to be shaped and challenged during sincere reflection on the word of God. Therefore, they approach others to share Joy and gratitude without obstacles. the preparation is not just about packing items in a suitcase for activities. It is about preparing the heart. Prepare one’s heart for short-term missions. Meetings are filled with open conversations about positive wishes, the reality of cultural differences, silent reflection, and open group briefing. Looking at why they want to go for a short-term mission ensures that, despite the difficulty or challenges of different cultures, they already have had a beautiful experience. Instead, they process their experiences in real-time, allowing the mission to become a transformative journey for both the volunteer and the host community. What do they carry with them? They carry joy, testimony, empathy, a willingness to repeat the experience, and an expression of love towards other. To sum up, it is a beautiful intersection of hope and humility, where everyday individuals decide to step outside their comfort zones, bound by the common belief that they can contribute to something greater than themselves.

Sr Renata Edka