Planting Hope in Cambodia
Father James Noonan started the first project for AIDS patients in post-war Cambodia and then expanded it over the year to care for hundreds of "AIDS orphans" whose parents have succumbed to the disease.
Father Noonan writes:
I am finishing my 43rd year as a Maryknoll priest. There have been days that were difficult, but never one when I would have wanted to be anything else. God is so good in helping me to find a way that has been life-giving—especially in staying with me through good times and bad.
As a young person, I loved parties and being out every night of the week, but I also did a fair amount of reflecting on life and my future. Early on, I was struck by the fact that the happiest people I knew appeared to be people who took their faith seriously. I was blessed to know many who loved life and a good time, but I realized that we are helpless without God.
By the time I entered the last year of high school, I knew I wanted to become a priest, and my parents were supportive. Years later, my mother enjoyed telling me that my father was sure I would be home from the seminary before the year ended. At my ordination, when I was giving my first blessing to friends and relatives, Dad was the one shedding tears of joy. God is full of surprises.
My years in Maryknoll have been far more rewarding than I ever imagined. Before coming to the missions, I was afraid of language and new cultures. Now in Cambodia, I am functioning in my third foreign language. It's not always pretty, but it seems to work.
My experience tells me that people read our hearts more than they listen to our words. I continue to be moved by how much happens when people sense that you care about them.
In mission, we are asked to make so many decisions that as youngsters we never imagined we could do. When needs arise, we respond, and God is never lacking in making up for our deficiencies. Jesus told us, "With me you can do all things, and without me you can do nothing." Jesus is always faithful to his promise.
I stay in Cambodia because there are so many wonderful opportunities to relate meaningfully with others. I have found that working with AIDS patients, as I do now, is the perfect place for unconditional love. When I'm helping them drink water or go to the bathroom, I remind myself that this is the body of Christ.
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