Encountering Jesus Through Service in Dubbo, Ethiopia
Stellamaris is one of the young women undergoing formation to discern whether to become Missionary Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. This is her recount of the period she spent in our mission in Dubbo, Ethiopia.
During my three-week mission in Dubbo, Ethiopia, I experienced how God's love manifests in the simple, ordinary moments of daily life—on the bus, walking the streets, and through daily encounters. It was a time of witnessing the harsh realities faced by the poor while finding powerful moments of encountering Jesus in unexpected places.
My first experience was at St. Mary Hospital's Children's Ward, where I met children battling severe illnesses and malnutrition. Among them was a ten-year-old boy with brain tuberculosis, isolated from his father due to contagion, and a ten-year-old girl suffering from high blood pressure. Offering a smile and being a presence of hope to these vulnerable families was a profound lesson in spreading God’s love through small acts of human presence.
At the Baby Jesus Centre of Life, I met children deprived of consistent parental care. Through music, dance, games, and embraces, we communicated a truth deeper than words: that they are seen and greatly loved by God. This love was made real not by speech, but through our attention and willingness to draw close.
My mission also extended to community outreach, where over one hundred and twenty pregnant and nursing mothers gathered for cervical cancer awareness and nutrition education. Sitting with them on the ground, sharing food, reminded me that mission is not about doing something extraordinary. It is about sitting beside people, listening, and bringing the good news of hope for a healthier future.
Each day, children along the streets joyfully called out to me. Despite their poverty, their joy and freedom remained, proving that mission happens as we walk, greet, and remain available to the people God places on our path. As Romans 10:15 resonated in my heart, "How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news," walking those streets became a heartwarming blessing.
Through it all, God reminded me that He does not require us to be perfect; He simply asks for an available heart and the courage to say yes. Like the apostles, I say: “I do not have silver and gold; only Jesus can I ever boast of. I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
