Padraig Mallon - Northern Ireland to Kiribati 2001

Padraig Mallon is a Refrigeration Engineer and plumber from Ireland, who went to Kiribati at the beginning of this year as part of his travels around the world. This particular opportunity arose after hearing about the work of Lay missionaries and of the MSC Mission office.

His time was occupied repairing various pumps and refrigerators - and even the photocopier and e-mail system. When asked for his impressions of his time on Kiribati, Padraig said he'd had the time of his life: The people are more hospitable than even the Irish!

Back home, he represented Northern Ireland as a long distance runner and boxer and holds several swimming titles.

He wrote: On 10 Janzia 2001 I made my way, to Kiribati where I worked with the people over seven or, so weeks. I was just very happy to help the people, but as the time for me to leave came closer I realised how much I had got out of helping, talking, working with, and most importantly, listening to the people of Kiribati. I also learned a lot about life and its true values and about the Catholic Church. It brought me closer to God.

Now my idea of going to Kiribati was not to become a better Catholic, but just to give a little back, but for every little bit I gave, there was twice as much given to me.

We are urgently looking for builders, brick layers, plumbers, handymen, teachers, doctors etc. If interested - Write soon to MSC Mission Office PO Box 177, Kensington NSW 1465 Fax: (02) 96970984