Sisters in the Philippines Celebrate and Share Their Blessings

By Sisters Rose Palacio and Linda Tan

Praise the Lord, for He is good! With loud clapping of hands and cheerful voices proclaiming His abounding graces and compassion, Mercy Community Hospital, Inc. in Iligan City, Lanao del Norte, Philippines, commemorated its 40th year of existence. The hospital provides holistic care to the sick, poor and needy constituents of Iligan and its neighboring cities, municipalities and far-flung areas of Lanao, Zamboanga, and Misamis Occidental.

A festive celebration was held on September 22 with its theme “Employees: Pearls of Mercy.” The day opened with an early morning walkathon, followed by Zumba exercise and a potluck breakfast courtesy of different departments. The Diocese Vicar then officiated a concelebrated Holy Mass, followed by a sumptuous lunch shared by employees, doctors, friends, and benefactors. The employees also prepared a fun-filled folk dance competition which entertained everybody while enjoying their meals. The occasion was overflowing with prizes, raffles, awards and cash gifts given to all employees. Cupcakes were also distributed to all patients, to their delight.

Serving Our Neighbors

We extended our celebration across the street, feeding the 803 students of Doña Josefa Elementary School, of whom 280 were Muslim evacuees from the war in Marawi. Mercy sisters, associates and staff distributed slices of fried chicken, noodles, rice and juice. Some students even asked for extra to take home to their parents.