12 Marian Helper • Winter 2022-23 • Marian.org Nearly 11 years ago, a typhoon struck Mindanao, the main southern island of the Philippines. The devastation along the coastal areas of Cagayan de Oro was catastrophic: 1,800 people were killed and 12,000 families were left homeless. These poorest of the poor were literally left with nothing but the clothes on their backs. Religious congregations in the region sprang into action, including the Marian Fathers in nearby El Salvador City. Within a year, 18 acres of land were purchased in Opol, about 20 miles inland. More than 540 permanent houses were eventually built, and “Mother of Divine Mercy Village” was born. Basic needs Last year, Fr. Dariusz (Darek) Drzewiecki, MIC, was appointed administrator of Mother of Divine Mercy Village, home today to more than 4,000 people. “The village is the fruit of the generous and good-hearted people from all over the world, represented by the missionaries working here,” Fr. Darek says. “In the beginning we focused on construction. Today we focus on the basic needs of the people.” By Dr. Joe McAleer A rendering of the newMother of Mercy Chapel, which will seat 364. At left, construction is under way. ‘I can think of no better way to mark the 15th anniversary of our mission in the Philippines in 2023 than the newMother of Mercy Chapel, which will place the Eucharist and the Merciful Jesus permanently at the heart of this community.’ New chapel will crown a thriving village Mercy comes home World of Mercy: The Philippines
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