60th Foundation Anniversary of the MPS Missionary Presence in Macau
Faith Flourishing in a Non-Christian Land
MACAU — Faith, culture, and deep gratitude intertwined on Saturday, June 27, 2026, as the Missionary Sisters of Our Lady of Perpetual Help (MPS) marked a historic double milestone. The community gathered at St. Lawrence Parish Church at 5:00 p.m. to celebrate the 60th Foundation Anniversary of the MPS missionary presence in Macau, alongside the annual Feast of Our Mother of Perpetual Help.
The celebration began with the traditional Karakol dance, performed by representatives from households that had hosted the visitation of the Icon of Our Mother of Perpetual Help. With joy and reverence, dancers carried the sacred Icon to the rhythmic beat of music, bringing a deep sense of cultural devotion to the heart of Macau. The Icon was then solemnly enthroned inside the church, and in a touching tribute, children from the Mong-Ha Lar de Jovens offered fresh flowers at the altar, symbolizing growth and the future of the mission.
The Holy Sacrifice of the Mass was presided over by Fr. Cyril Law, Parish Priest of St. Lawrence Church, together with concelebrants Fr. Franz Gassner, SVD; Fr. Ronillo Ordenes, SVD; Fr. Jose Angel Castellanos Hernandez, SVD; and Fr. Felipe Bacalso, SJ. In his homily, Fr. Cyril Law honored the sisters’ spiritual and pastoral legacy. Sixty years ago, the pioneering MPS Sisters courageously answered the call of the Gospel, establishing a mission in Macau—a land where Christianity is a minority faith. The fruits of their courage are evident in their ministry at the Mong-Ha Lar de Jovens, offering guidance and safe haven to young people; at Colégio Diocesano de São José, where their presence helped the students; and in their pastoral care for Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs), serving as a beacon of hope and a spiritual family for migrants far from home.
The congregation was beautifully represented by sisters who traveled from across the globe to join the celebration. Honored guests included Sr. Leticia Diaz from Mexico (General Council Secretary), Sr. Annie Estraza (Asia Regional Superior), Sr. Sushila Kishan from India, Sr. Mary Joy Recto and Sr. Clariza Moren from the Thailand Mission, and Sr. Regina Erecre from the Philippines. The pews of St. Lawrence were filled to capacity, reflecting the diversity of the Catholic family in Macau. Religious sisters from nine congregations, staff and children from the Mong-Ha Lar de Jovens, members of the Our Mother of Perpetual Help Devotee’s Group-Macau, and local devotees—Chinese, Portuguese, and Filipino—joined together in prayer and thanksgiving.
Following the Eucharistic celebration, the event transitioned into a lively fellowship gathering. The Missionary Sisters prepared food for all attendees, sharing stories, laughter, and friendship. This joyful gathering strengthened bonds of faith and mission support, echoing the spirit that has defined the MPS presence in Macau since 1966.
The 60th anniversary was not only a commemoration of history but also a testimony of faith flourishing in a non-Christian land. It stands as a reminder of the courage of the pioneering sisters, the enduring presence of Our Mother of Perpetual Help, and the vibrant mission that continues to inspire hope and unity in Macau today.




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