THE gentle sea breeze caresses my skin, a reminder of the warmth of home and the love that surrounds me. This serene space is not just a retreat; it is a home where I exchange experiences and insights with the youth, each conversation rich with the flavours of life.
Here, amidst the laughter and shared stories, I am continually awed by the grace of God — grace that has showered us with blessings throughout my 19-day pilgrimage, which has now come full circle.
I recall the past seven days, particularly last Wednesday when I was wrapped in my thick blanket in Medjugorje, feeling both the chill of the night and the warmth of the many blessings I had encountered. And now, just like that, I am back home — yet it feels like a world away.
The gentle waves lapping the shore match the rhythm of my heart, which still beats in sync with the spiritual experiences that have so profoundly shaped me.
Thank You, Lord. These three simple words encapsulate my gratitude, but no amount of eloquence could adequately express my thankfulness for this beautiful journey of life.
I remember the Holy Masses celebrated by our spiritual director, Rev. Father Ramon. His words intertwined with the sacred readings, creating an ambience of divine elegance within God’s house.
Together with 39 other pilgrims from Kuching, Sibu and Miri, we forged bonds that transcended mere friendship; we became like a family, united by a common faith.
Our spiritual feast continued, on the 1st of November, as we celebrated All Saints’ Day in the idyllic Church of St. Mother of Freedom in Zagreb, a place steeped in spiritual warmth.
Father Ramon’s homily resonated deeply, expressing gratitude for being able to celebrate Mass in a setting cared for by the Salesian congregation.
Each sacred space we visited — from the awe-inspiring Cathedral of the Assumption of the Virgin in Dubrovnik to the contemplative quiet of St. Ignatius Church—brought a new flavour of gratitude and respect for our shared beliefs.
One of the touching moments was celebrating Mass at Mother Village, an orphanage in Medjugorje, where children left behind by war find solace and care. It was also on All Souls’ Day, a time to remember and pray for the departed.
Standing in that sacred space, surrounded by souls longing for love, I felt a profound connection to the past and an overwhelming sense of duty to cherish the present.
As I walked through Dubrovnik’s historic streets, the “Pearl of the Adriatic”, I was enchanted by its stunning architecture and rich history. The experiences there added a new layer of richness to my sense of life.
Each cathedral and church we visited seemed to echo the footsteps of countless believers who had walked that same path, making it feel alive and electric with holy energy.
Our journey led us to the mystical Apparition Hill and Cross Mountain, rich in faith and history. Visiting Apparition Hill — where Our Lady of Peace first appeared — was a transformative ascent, allowing me to connect with something greater than myself.
The Wooden Cross that marked a significant event in the history of Medjugorje served as a reminder of faith’s resilience, while the climb up Cross Mountain was a journey of reflection.
The ascent up Mount Krizevac was a physical and spiritual challenge that invited reflection on our relationship with God.
At the summit, I felt a cleansing peace as I looked out over the blessings of the earth, leading me to understand my journey was also a call to embrace change and growth.
At the summit, as we gathered at the foot of the cross, a profound sense of healing and clarity enveloped me — a powerful reminder that every struggle has its purpose.
Our spiritual journey didn’t end there; the iconic St. James Church beckoned me. Dedicated to the Patron Saint of Pilgrims, this church embodies the essence of community and faith, with its walls echoing stories of hope and divine encounters.
Just stepping inside felt like an invitation to witness the devotion captured within its sacred space.
While Medjugorje held my heart, it was Mostar that captured my senses with its mystical beauty. The famed Stari Most bridge stood tall, an architectural marvel that connects the past with the present, bridging cultures and histories.
As I walked across this magnificent structure, I could feel the pulse of the city resonate beneath my feet.
Mostar’s cobblestone streets and lively bazaars filled my spirit with joy, filling me with the warmth of local interactions and the exchange of stories shared over cups of Bosnian coffee and Cevapi.
My adventure took me to the vibrant city of Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina, known for its rich mosaic of cultures and experiences. Among the sights that captivated my attention was the Cathedral of Jesus’ Sacred Heart.
The delicate details of the architecture reflect a community that, despite its challenges, continues to thrive in resilience and hope. I found myself reminded of the strength found in diversity, an affirmation of the beauty of life’s varied flavours.
As our pilgrimage in central Europe and Medjugorje, Bosnia neared its conclusion, each city we visited, and each person we met, contributed to the rich tapestry of my life, reminding me of the significance of friendship, family, community, and humanity.
I felt deeply grateful to God for all the people I had met, each leaving a mark on my heart. The laughter, the lessons, and the camaraderie that flowed freely among us crafted a beautiful closure to my travels.
My final day began with Mass at the Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The atmosphere was electric with anticipation, yet peaceful, enveloped by the gentle murmur of prayers.
The sea breeze of the South China Sea curled around me as I reflected on the remarkable journey I had experienced. As the sun set, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, the beauty of the scene felt like a divine gift — a final showcase of the miraculous exhibits life offers.
The warmth of the sunset combined with the salty tang of the approaching tide reminded me that life, much like this journey, is layered with experiences and connections, all contributing to personal growth and understanding.
I find comfort in one last biblical verse that resonates with my journey: “Taste and see that the Lord is good; blessed is the one who takes refuge in Him.” (Psalm 34:8 NIV) Life is a feast, filled with extraordinary flavours, beautiful friendships, and the warmth of a community that transcends borders.
Embracing each moment as it comes, I am forever grateful for the spice of life that continues to enrich my life journey of Faith.
As we conclude our savoury exploration of life’s diverse flavours, let’s pause to appreciate the rich tapestry of experiences that spice up our existence. From the tangy zest of new adventures to the comforting warmth of nostalgia, each taste shapes our unique journey.
Dear readers, looking ahead, the aroma of transformation beckons. Next week, we embark on a new adventure at the Crossroads of Change. Together, we’ll navigate life’s twists and turns, embracing the possibilities that lie ahead.
Until then, relish the vibrant tastes of today, let us reflect on their impact, and prepare our senses for the intriguing journey ahead. Here’s to the continuous discovery and the zest life has to offer!
The views expressed here are those of the writer and do not necessarily represent the views of the Sarawak Tribune.
