What began as a simple idea slowly evolved into one of the most meaningful experiences of our lives. It all started in 2022 when Brother Augusteen shared his wish: that we would travel to Lahore, Pakistan to witness his Perpetual Vows celebration and meanwhile take the opportunity to engage in a missionary experience there. As the years passed, the idea quietly matured in our hearts. Then, finally, the time came to begin making real plans. In collaboration with the New Beginnings Foundation, we organized a fundraising Pasta Night at the MSSP Oratory, Birkirkara. It was a joyous moment filled with community spirit where all those present enjoyed themselves whilst contributing very generously. All proceeds went towards the Crisis Intervention Fund, managed by Fr. Pierre Bonnici, which provides essential support to individuals and families facing poverty and deprivation in Lahore. It was a small step, but a meaningful one, and it reminded us that our mission was not just a trip — it was about people helping people, across borders and cultures.
The Crisis Intervention Fund offers vital support to individuals and families who have lost hope and are facing severe hardship. In Pakistan, government assistance for people in such difficult circumstances is non-existent. Those who cannot afford basic necessities often find themselves in desperate situations.
Many families come to Lahore with hopes of building a better future. However, upon arrival, they are met with a reality that is far more difficult than expected. At some point they may face a crisis—such as illness, the need for costly medical treatment, life-threatening situations, lack of job opportunities, inadequate housing, or extremely high rent, even for a single room to shelter an entire family. With no safety net and no means of support, they are left vulnerable and alone.
This is where the Crisis Intervention Fund steps in. Through the Missionary Society of St Paul (MSSP), the Fund provides direct assistance to individuals and families facing these dire situations, helping them survive and regain hope when they have nowhere else to turn to.
Soon, the day of departure arrived. With open hearts and no expectations, we set off on our three-week journey. We simply wanted to serve, listen, and be present. From the moment we landed, we knew this would be different from anything we had experienced before.
Pakistan greeted us with its vibrant colours, rich traditions, unmatched hospitality as well as the best tasting mangos and monsoon rains. But what moved us most was the depth of faith we encountered in the people – youths and adults alike; a resilient, joyful faith despite often harsh circumstances.
We visited local communities as well as a number of people’s homes accompanied by the mssp social worker. Despite the harsh and most often unsuitable living conditions of the people we were always received with great warmth and hospitality. What we saw will remain with us forever. Words can hardly do justice to the reality we witnessed. The following are just a few examples—small glimpses—of the harsh and often heartbreaking conditions in which many people live… We encountered a young mother raising four children under the age of eleven, all living together in a single room with just one bed to share. They had no electricity and lacked even the most basic necessities. In another case, a father in the final stages of cancer was being cared for by his wife, who was unable to work due to his constant need for support. Their children had to be pulled out of school because the family could no longer afford the fees. Medical expenses and rent were far beyond their reach. We met an elderly woman who had lost her sight to untreated cataracts—something that could have been reversed with a simple operation, if not for poverty. Then there was a family living in a three-walled room with a leaking wooden roof, also without electricity or running water. The father, suffering from chronic lung issues, was unable to work, making it impossible for the children to attend school.
Together with Fr. Gerard Bonello (Rector) we visited the Joseph de Piro school. Run with passion and a deep sense of purpose, the school offers not only a solid education but also genuine care for its students’ wellbeing. For those students who excel but cannot afford further studies, the Mssp fathers offer scholarships to help them continue their post-secondary and tertiary education. With the support of the New Beginnings Foundation, the school also provides breakfast every morning to all students, ensuring each child starts the day with nourishment and dignity.
A particularly meaningful aspect of our missionary experience was connecting with the parishioners especially the youth. We quickly formed a deep bond with them through conversation, laughter, shared meals, moments of prayer and celebration. One evening we were invited to give a talk where we spoke about our MSSP community in Malta, shared our personal stories and our spiritual journey. It was a moment of mutual exchange which really touched us.
In addition to pastoral encounters, we also helped with some administrative work of the local mission. Though less visible this made us more aware that even small acts of service can support a much larger mission.
Brother Augusteen’s Perpetual Vows celebration was a moving highlight, a moment of deep joy and commitment, both personal and communal. It reminded us of the larger calling we all share; to live with love, integrity and a heart open to others.
As the three weeks came to an end and we journeyed back home, are hearts were full – not just with memories, but with immense gratitude. What began as an invitation turned into a deeply personal and spiritual experience. We may have gone to serve, but we returned feeling served – by the love, faith and resilience of the people of Lahore.