HAPPY RETIREMENT, CHIT!

By E. Maestro

Vancouver, BC. November 23 .– Chit Arma was happily surprised by the retirement party organized for her by her colleagues and friends at the Migrant Ministry of St. Mary’s Parish on Joyce St.  Arma is part of the core group of volunteers of the Migrant Ministry. Arma also worked as a settlement worker at the Immigrant Services Society of BC for many years. Arma is well known and well-loved in the community. She is a founding member and active member of the FilNet group. She served as the chair of the Board of Directors of the Migrant Workers Centre (formerly called the West Coast Domestic Workers Association).

The Migrant Ministry of St. Mary’s Parish was initiated by Father Pierre LaBlond, OP in 2011 and launched on May 8, 2011. The Ministry organizes workshops and other events in collaboration with the ISS of BC and retreats with the St. Mary’s Catholic Church.

Colleagues, clients, friends and members of the Migrant Ministry spoke warmly of how Arma listened and helped them as newcomers, caregivers, and workers in Canada. Arma, a former caregiver herself, knew firsthand the struggles and concerns of the caregivers and the courage it takes to live and work here. She is a fierce, long-time advocate of migrant workers’ rights and welfare, from open work permits to family reunification to permanent residence.

Father Pierre Lablond OP who initiated the formation of the Migrant Ministry in 2011 and its launching in May 2011 gave Arma a framed Certificate of Appreciation for all her work. It was a recognition of her “outstanding dedication, exceptional contributions, and tireless effort through her service to the St. Mary’s Migrant Ministry.”

The parish priest, Fr. Joseph D’ Souza opened the event, said the prayers and the blessings to everyone. There was dancing, games, and singing of songs which were Arma’s favourites. The food was a delicious abundant spread

Her clients, many of whom became her friends and members of the Migrant Ministry, spoke of how Arma made a big positive difference in their lives. Arma’s colleagues and co-workers, including Darla Tomeldan, Liza Roda, Jonathon Braun spoke of how hard Arma worked in the service of our kababayan.

Arma plans to have a well deserved and restful break for a month or so in the Philippines with her husband Rey. Chit, enjoy your retirement, travel safely, and enjoy sleeping in every day! ###