One of the highlights of my time in Taiwan is the opportunity to attend Catholic mass, despite being in a foreign country. Every Sunday, I make the journey to Yuanlin to attend mass at the Catholic church there.

What makes attending mass in Yuanlin even more special is the presence of a Filipino community. Despite the distance from my township, Hemei, I am always eager to join my Filipino friends, who are also foreign English teachers in Changhua, in attending mass. The sense of belonging and camaraderie we share is truly heartwarming.

After mass, we gather to share Filipino food and drinks prepared by our "nanays" or mothers in Taiwan. These women may not be our biological mothers, but they have embraced us like their own children. Their motherly care and warmth make us feel at home, even thousands of miles away from our families.

Attending mass in Yuanlin is not just a religious practice; it is a way for me to connect with my culture, my faith, and my Filipino community. It is a reminder that no matter where we are in the world, there is always a place where we can find comfort, companionship, and a sense of home.