Fr. Hila Rebo, SVD
Finding Joy in Mission
By Fr. Hila Rebo, SVD
I came to Jamaica on October 3, 2020. When I first arrived, I lived with Fr. Bernard Latus, SVD, serving in two suburban church communities: Reconciliation Church and Good Shepherd Church. In 2024, I was appointed pastor of Good Shepherd Church, while Fr. Piotr Palowski, SVD took responsibility for Reconciliation Church.
Good Shepherd is a small but faithful community. Regular Sunday Mass attendance ranges from about 80 to 140 people, and most parishioners are between the ages of 50 and 80. While there are some young adults connected to the parish, only a few attend regularly. Many are occupied with work or have lost interest in church life. As a result, relatively few children are present, and those who do attend are often brought by their grandparents.
Some children also come from nearby non-Catholic, single-parent households. While it is possible to invite them into the life of the Church, it is often difficult to sustain their faith formation at home.
Ministry in this context is not as simple or smooth as I once imagined. It requires total commitment—heart, mind, and energy—from both myself and the parish community. At times, even when we work hard to organize programs or reach out to others, the results do not meet our expectations. We make phone calls, send messages, and extend invitations, but many do not respond.
Even participation in the Sacrament of Reconciliation remains low. I have encouraged parishioners through homilies and educational efforts, yet only a few come forward.
Still, hardship is part of missionary life. St. Joseph Freinademetz, one of the first Divine Word Missionaries sent to China, understood this well. Despite the challenges, I know I cannot give up. These experiences are forming me, preparing me not only for this mission but for whatever lies ahead in my vocation.
Still, hardship is part of missionary life. St. Joseph Freinademetz, one of the first Divine Word Missionaries sent to China, understood this well.
Despite the challenges, I know I cannot give up. These experiences are forming me, preparing me not only for this mission but for whatever lies ahead in my vocation.
One of the most meaningful parts of my ministry is visiting the homebound. I have come to truly enjoy this time, as it offers companionship to those who are often alone. Many live by themselves or rely on a caregiver, and they welcome the opportunity to talk and share their lives. In these moments, I see how important simple presence can be.
In addition to pastoral work, I often take initiative in maintaining the church grounds. Because our parish community is aging and financial resources are limited, it is not always possible to hire help. By working alongside those who are able, we reduce expenses and ensure that necessary tasks are completed.
We were grateful that Hurricane Melissa passed our area with only minor damage. Other parts of the island were not as fortunate, and many churches suffered greatly.
Despite the difficulties, my ministry in Jamaica has been incredible so far. I have encountered many loyal and committed people who generously give their time and energy in service to the Church. Their example challenges me to reflect more deeply on my own vocation and how I am called to live my faith.
This mission has also opened my eyes to the richness of the Catholic faith expressed in different cultures. In Jamaica, I have come to appreciate a more vibrant and expressive style of worship. At first, this was unfamiliar to me, but over time I have grown to embrace and enjoy it.
A missionary will never be free from hardship, but there is always a deep happiness and peace that flows from life in the mission field.
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