SEEING CHRIST IN THE MARGINS
SEEING CHRIST IN THE MARGINS
Nigel Gasper
CHARIS Volunteer
In July 2024, I joined my first mission trip to Kuala Lumpur with CHARIS, visiting the Zotung Refugee Catholic Learning Centre. Although I have worked in CHARIS for one year, I did not have the chance to go on a mission trip, until this opportunity arose.
A striking encounter occurred when a fellow volunteer and I were speaking with an undocumented refugee near the centre. Suddenly, police arrived demanding our documentation. At that moment, we felt a fear that we imagine is what the refugees faced daily. We thank God for the supportive community within the vicinity that helped defuse the situation.
Throughout the trip, I witnessed the spirit of community, especially during Mass with the Myanmar refugees. Despite being far from home, they are not alone. For anyone considering a mission trip, I echo Jesus’ words: "Come and see"(John 1:39). Mission work is more than service; it’s about experiencing faith and solidarity firsthand.