It was with heavy hearts that people gathered on April 21st to farewell Srs Torika Wong and Veronica Lum before their departure to Fiji on 23rd April. Eighteen years ago Torika and Veronica were the first Marist Sisters to go to the Philippines. Marist Fathers, Marist Missionary Sisters, Marist Brothers and postulants, Marist Laity, Partners in Marist Mission, SAMIN representatives, a host of friends and of course the Marist Sisters in Davao gathered for the farewell function that began with Mass at 6:00 pm. Fr Pat Devlin sm, District Superior of the Marist Fathers in Davao, was the main celebrant at the Mass. The backyard was well lit up with over 80 chairs in place. The sudden shower of rain at the beginning of Mass did not dampen any spirits with everyone able to shelter in the house or on the porches.

After the Mass Sr Sheila, Unit Leader of the Marist Sisters in the Philippines, welcomed and thanked all who came. Many more speeches followed with various groups expressing their appreciation of Torika and Vero. Torika and Vero then voiced their gratitude for the richness of life they had experienced in the Philippines and for the love they received during their time here.

Entertainment from various cultural groups followed before all partook of a delicious meal. It was an evening to remember and one that was a fitting tribute to the contribution Torika and Vero had made during their eighteen years in the Philippines.

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