Walking in Hope

Hope and Connection: A Mission Immersion in Davao

Recently Alana and Anna shared their insights from their five week immersion in Davao, Phillipines with Parishioners at St Patrick’s Church HIll. Balay Banaag – “House of Hope” is a ‘safe place’ for girls at risk, it is under the administration of the Marist Sisters. “Balay Pasilungan” means “shelter home.”   It is a safe place for young street boys – it is administered by the Society of Mary – Marist Fathers & Brothers.

They spoke passionately about their time working with the girls at Balay Banag and the boys at Balay Pasilungan orphanages, offering a moving glimpse into the daily realities faced by the children. Through personal stories and heartfelt reflection, Anna and Alana helped audiences gain a deeper understanding of the challenges these young people encounter each day.

Despite the hardship, their presentation was infused with hope, joy, and deep connection. By becoming part of the children’s everyday routines—sharing meals, laughter, play, and conversation—they were able to build genuine relationships and bring moments of dignity and happiness into the lives of those they met.

Anna and Alana expressed sincere gratitude to the Marist Sisters in Davao, whose welcome and support made their immersion possible. Inspired by the experience, they hope to return to Davao in 2026 to continue this important work.

With thanks to Marist Way Australia for permission to share this article which appeared in their December 2025 newsletter.

Our Sisters in Davao shared their own thanks and memories from the visit on FaceBook.

Our community has been richly blessed to have Alana and Anna (Sydney, Aus.) with us. for their month-long Immersion experience. With their joyful and lively presence, they have added more life to the sisters in community and brought fun and happiness to our children in Balay Banaag and in Balay Pasilungan.

Through their loving and caring presence, our children has again been reminded of how they are deeply loved by God. We hope that their time with us was as meaningful to them as it was to all of us. Daghang Salamat Anna and Alana!