Canada

My elder sister, Ruth, and her family migrated to Canada on July 4, 2004. It was that long ago when I last saw her. I can still remember the very emotional moments at the NAIA when we saw them off.

Last January, I wrote the Cardinal a letter asking for permission to allow me to visit my sister and her family in Canada. I told him it was a gift from my sister as I celebrate my 10 years in the ministry this year. The Cardinal agreed and helped me out with my visa application. After everything has been processed, I finally left for Canada last April 14, Easter Tuesday. Some parishioners joined me for mass and breakfast that morning.

I have been here for almost a week now. I'm enjoying my time here babysitting for my nephew and niece, playing tennis on Wii, walking around the neighborhood at 12 noon to ward off the biting coldness. Yesterday, Sunday, I said mass at the St. Catherine Parish. The Italian parish priest, Fr. Ruggiero (not sure of the spelling), gave me some Sunday schedule. I also concelebrated for the Filipino mass last Saturday. I finally met Ate Malou Calansingin and her sister's family. Yesterday after the mass Ate Malou joined me and my family for lunch at Square One Mall (very much like Glorietta). On Wednesday, my sister will bring me to the Niagara Falls, one of the main attractions here in Canada.

For now, I just want to share some pictures of my stay here.