The Freeman

The GOOD NEWS

My power and energy source

- Grace Relucio Princesa From Didache

Lord , may my soul always long to be refreshed by Your Word

Ezekiel 18:21-28 Psalm 130:1-2, 3-4,57,7-8 Matthew 5:20-26

Being an ambassador for God and country in the United Arab Emirates ( UAE) is not child’s play. Diplomatic or consular work here is, as I jokingly

. say, a “25/ 8 job”. This is the second largest destinatio­n of Filipino labor migrants. Estimates say there are between 500,000 to 800,000 OFs (Overseas Filipinos) here.

According to UAE data, as many as 40,000 OFs come to the Philippine­s Embassy yearly in Abu Dhabi or to the Philippine­s Consulate General in Dubai as distressed, meaning those who ran away from their employers for varied reasons.

Friday, which is the start of the weekend, or the only weekend for those who need to work Saturdays, is when the more than 100 OFs organizati­ons hold their induction events, anniversar­ies and Christmas parties. Calls for help come round the clock. One can burnt out with all the challenges and activities of such a busy post.

I thank God that UAE is an open country that allows multiple faiths to be praticed. As a Light of Jesus, A CFC-Handmaid of the Lord, and a Regina Rosarii Contemplat­ive Associatio­n member, I find strength and sustenance for my body and soul to continue my work by attending Holy Mass and reading His word.

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