The sacrifices of our migrant workers are beyond compare. Their impact on our lives cannot be denied. Their efforts to uplift the quality of their lives and their families do not only encompass their very own but are intertwined with ours as well. Their concern is our concern. Their journey is our journey. They are our modern day heroes.

The Church recognizes the great contribution of the migrants not only to the economy but also to the very core of the society. A lot of lives revolve around migration. Families are separated, and, at times, destroyed in search of a greener pasture. The role of the Church touches on the formation of our OFW and their families. The strengthening of their faith will be their greatest ally against all the problems and temptations they encounter in their quest for a better life.

The Archdiocese of Lipa celebrated National Migrants Sunday last February 28, 2009. This year’s theme: The Sacrifice of Filipino Migrants Mirror the Journey of St.Paul was discussed and echoed through all the celebrations in both vicarial and parochial levels. Fr. Jojo Gonda, Director of LACMMI, spearheaded the celebration. Sr. Edith Ledda, MSP, guest speaker for Vicariates 5 and 6 talked about this year’s theme. Her sharing deepened our understanding of the sacrifices of the migrants and how they relate to the Church’s own journey.

Vicariate 4, headed by Fr. Reli de la Cruz , held their Migrants Day a week early. Anak Batangueño members were well represented in the celebration. The vicariate also had their OFW Savers Club Caravan on the same day. Noel de Guzman, from Pioneer Life, explained what the club is about and shared in depth the value of saving.