The EUNTES MISSION CENTER (EMC) is located in Zamboanga City in front of the Sulu Sea on the west coast of the island of Mindanao, Philippines, and it has a nice setting for the awakening of human and spiritual progress. The aim is to provide a place of welcome for lay, religious and ordained who like to renew their commitment to the Church in Asia. Aside the large and green space around, the Center has all the facilities, 30 private rooms and first rate catering, that can help anyone in his or her journey of studying and meditation.

 

   The courses programs (two every year) covers those aspects of mission that are crucial in Asia today as well as treating the broad themes of mission: proclamation of the Gospel, interreligious dialogue, inculturation and liberation. What impress most is the rhythm of life at EUNTES. Before anything, the atmosphere is "intercultural", that is, person from different countries share of themselves around the common cause of mission. More the life of the center is interwined with the people, christians, muslims and indigenous, who are living around the area of  Zamboanga peninsula.

    For the length of the programs, that takes place in EUNTES, there is complete involvement with the people on a practical level. Simplicity and contemplation characterize the internal climate of the Center, aided by some wonderful teachers coming from Philippines and other Asian Countries. The group gravitates naturally toward the shared life of food and daily homework. The spirit of sharing within the group makes the Center a special place of practical learning for mission. More than anything, this atmosphere of learning by doing is worth discussing.  The normal thinking is that the more courses you have and the better the conditions therefore it is easier to prepare yourself for your job, your profession and on-coming projects. This theory is just as applicable in the area of evangelization. The EUNTES Center however, does it differently. Its approch is broader and requires more dedication. The participants at EUNTES get their training in an atmosphere of constant mixing together, of reflection, availability and action. No one learns how to go down the path of mission if he or she does not start down it. If you stick to courses in a classroom, you will never understand what being a missionary is all about.

     Being present right in the middle of the scene with people, in the very context of many religions and many cultures, is where mission is. Mission begins in the community by being part of it. It starts by praying with people in their way using Asian or local methods and by immersing ourself in the daily life of the people. This is what you have to do from the very beginning. And this is what happens at EUNTES that makes it a special place for getting into the dynamics of mission.

 

     The courses are run by the Pontifical Institute for Foreign Missions (P.I.M.E.) and the Society of the Oblates of Notre Dame (O.N.D. Sisters).

 

     Hoping to see you soon among us,

                                                      EUNTES Staff