Jesuit Novitiate: Mission Trials - January 31, 1999 (Sunday)

by FRANK SAVADERA, SJ

Today, with words from the Beatitudes (Matthew 5:1-12), we depart for our mission trials. Whew! There were plenty of things to finish before finally leaving (i.e., official tasks, Clipper article, Area-G assignments, etc.). At 6:00PM, Max ferries us to the port. The moon was at its fullest. Enroute to Cagayan de Oro were myself, Karel, Chris, Dot and Oliver. Jason and Javier left earlier for Zamboanga. As expected, we novices took the cheapest accommodations. The economy class was not as bad. I wouldn’t compare it though to the lavish Japanese vessel Nippon Maru which I was privileged to take some few years back. The top deck of the local ferry was nevertheless cramped with people speaking in an alien tongue (I’m sure, Binisaya); the walkways were crowded, as well with boxes and baggage that may well cause the entire boat to sink. The boat eventually left at 10:00PM toward a virtual unknown, into the stillness of the night, out into sea. At the top deck, we can feel the breeze touching our faces. Salty sea water occasionally splashes on us, as well. Hmmm … they don’t get this treat in First class.