January is the time of the year when we look ahead and make a resolution to exercise more or commit ourselves to some change. But we also have to look back and see how we did in the past.
As a missionary, it can be very hard to see the fruits of our labour. I know from mission in Pakistan that it is about living the small celebrations or the small wins.
It could be seeing a school that took years to build and fund, which was challenged by a lack of qualified teachers, have its first graduation class; seeing the smile of achievement on each student’s face.
Or remembering how ill a person was with TB, who could not walk and was in despair that they would be cured; then, almost a year later, having completed their treatment, they had put on weight and were looking well and were again enthused about life. As the Gospel of John says, “I have come that they may have life and have it to the full.” (Jn 10:10).
Over the past year, the Columbans in Ireland have had two such moments. In August, we hosted a visit from several bishops from China. A visit of this nature had never happened before. We were founded for China, and here was a group of bishops coming to Ireland and spending time with us.
Most of our members who went to China have died, and it was up to the present generation to accept their thanks. I wished Bishop Galvin and Fr John Blowick could have seen this affirmation.
The Korean Church and Government marked the 75th anniversary of the Columbans who died violently in their country. Along with our members who died violently in the Philippines, Japan, Jamaica and South America, we sought to bring their stories to life. We commissioned a memorial for our graveyard and unveiled it with relatives of those who had died so tragically. It was a sombre day marked with gratitude for lives well lived.
My hope for the new year is that you continue to enjoy and be enriched by the Far East magazine. It is our privilege to produce this magazine – sharing Columban stories has been our focus from the very beginning in 1918.
We aim to bring that world closer to your home. If you are enjoying this magazine, please pass on a gift subscription to a friend.
My resolution this year is to practice gratitude. At the beginning of our mission, the people of Ireland supported us with their prayers and donations. I am very grateful for your continued support. I am also thankful that I can share two signs of our mission coming full circle over the past year.
May 2026 be a year of peace and gratitude in all our hearts and may our faith in God be nurtured and encouraged.
Fr David Kenneally, Regional Director, Ireland
First published in the January/February 2026 issue of the Far East magazine. To subscribe and support Columban Missionaries see: https://columbans.ie/far-east-magazine/