Columban seminarian Matang M Rotitaake is studying in the Philippines. Photo: St Columbans Mission Society
My name is Matang. My biological parents are Moaniba Rotitaake and Tokanikaiatetaanga Tumeka. I was adopted by Maeke Batiata and Eritia Ibeata. I am 24 years of age and come from the island country of the Republic of Kiribati (also known as the Gilbert Islands) in the Micronesian region of the Pacific (Oceania).
The 33 Kiribati islands lie across the equator and are divided into three parts: northern, central, and southern. My life growing up was all about simplicity and was uniquely related to the traditional way of life with my family and friends.
My call to the Columbans happened in this way. While studying at one of the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart (MSC) secondary schools called St Maria College, a Columban priest named Fr Frank Hoare visited my school to promote vocations among the male students. He shared magazines and showed videos about the Columban missionaries in missions in different parts of the world.
After Fr Hoare’s presentation, I was moved by the missionary way of life and felt the call to join the Columbans. However, I could not join them because I had not yet finished my studies. Later, another Columban priest, Fr William Lee, visited Kiribati, and I told him of my interest in joining the Columbans.
I felt called because I was very interested in seeing the missionary way of life or charism first-hand. I wanted to see where and how they work for justice, peace and the integrity of creation, inter-religious dialogue, solidarity with the poor, education for the poorest, and evangelisation.
I hoped my calling would come true and I would become one of the Columban missionary priests in a future mission.
Now that I am in year one as a Columban seminarian at the Loyola School of Theology in the Philippines, my favourite subject is philosophy. Philosophy studies the nature of knowledge, allowing me to expand my understanding of natural things. Philosophy isn’t so much about answers as about asking the right questions. It helps me to think critically about things beyond my understanding.
Through it, I will try to enlarge my knowledge. Philosophy requires not only a love of wisdom but also a willingness to learn and experience things. It will help me understand different phenomena and encourage me to overcome difficulties and give meaning to my life. It will prepare me well for the theology courses that will follow.
When not studying, I like to read poems because, in them, I find many messages and symbolic features related to real life and things happening in this world.
I also enjoy well-made religious movies where I can learn more about missionary life and preaching the good news.
My life in formation is a big transition for me, allowing me to experience different kinds of people, cultures, and new environments I haven’t experienced before. I have learned a lot from living with my formators and brothers!
Columban seminarian Matang M Rotitaake is studying in the Philippines.
Listen to "From Simplicity to Mission"
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