1. Introduce yourself?
I am Fr Arnel Jason B. Mengote, SDB, from the Philippine South Province (FIS). I come from a family of nine, and I am the fourth child. In 2006, I entered the seminary after studying at the Salesian Training Center for nine months. Initially, I had been preparing to apply for military service, but my encounter with the Salesians in Borongan, Eastern Samar, and the influence of Don Bosco changed the course of my life. Instead of pursuing a military career, I decided to enter the seminary. Alongside three other companions, I was ordained a priest during the pandemic on June 29, 2021, the solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul. I feel incredibly blessed to fulfill my dream of becoming a missionary, and I am currently serving in Mozambique, Africa.
2. What inspired you to choose the path of becoming a missionary?
During my time as an aspirant, an Italian missionary who had served in China visited the Philippines to meet with our Chinese novices who were about to make their profession as Salesians. During one of his "Good Night Talks," he shared his experiences of mission work in China. It was then that I felt a deep calling within me. In fact, in my application for my first profession after the novitiate, I had already expressed my desire to go on a mission someday. God has been gracious in granting me this gift. Additionally, becoming a missionary is my way of expressing gratitude to the Lord for the many blessings He has bestowed upon me—my life and my Salesian vocation. Furthermore, I am aware that the progress of my beloved country is indebted to the zealous and dedicated missionaries who have worked here. Choosing the path of mission is my way of expressing gratitude to them. While I cannot promise to emulate their accomplishments, I am committed to doing my best to be of great assistance.
3. How do you feel about the place you are going to? Do you have any fears or concerns about the new location, culture, and people?
I had numerous fears and concerns before embarking on my mission, especially when I learned that I was being assigned to Africa. I worried about the language barrier, adapting to the local cuisine, building relationships with both the people and my fellow missionaries, and particularly about living among people with different religious backgrounds. Coming from a predominantly Catholic country, it was my first time venturing outside of my comfort zone. However, before beginning the missionary course, I spent four months in my mission location, which provided me with a glimpse of the situation there. While my fears were justified, I have come to realize that the Lord, the ultimate provider, supplies us with everything we need. We simply need to take that leap of faith and trust in Him.
4. How did your family members, friends, and fellow Salesians react when you shared your missionary calling with them?
When my family members and friends learned that I was going for the missions, they were undoubtedly shocked. Living in a Catholic country like the Philippines is a privilege that offers a high level of comfort and security. Suddenly, my decision to go to a vastly different land left them taken aback. However, my fellow Salesians reacted differently. They provided me with abundant encouragement and affirmation. Many expressed their gratitude that I was undertaking a mission, not only because I was leaving, but because I would be working for another province.
5. What are your plans and aspirations for your missionary life?
In my missionary life, my plans and aspirations revolve around assisting the community and the place where I am assigned to the best of my abilities. I aim to continually improve myself and acquire the necessary knowledge and skills to remain relevant and responsive to the needs of the times.
6. Do you have any role models among the great missionaries whose lifestyle and devotion you wish to emulate?
In my missionary life, I find inspiration in our Salesian protomartyrs, Sts. Luigi Versiglia and Callisto Caravario. I do not aspire to become a martyr like them, but I am drawn to their willingness, openness, dedication, and faithfulness. They epitomize the pillars of our missionary work and, like many others, I consider them worthy role models.
7. What message do you have for young people regarding the missionary calling and vocation?
One of my companions once said that he chose the missions to experience adventure in life, while another emphasized the importance of taking risks. I share the same message with young people: embrace risks, enjoy life, and embark on adventures. However, the most beautiful and fulfilling risks and adventures in life are those undertaken for God and alongside the people He loves, particularly the least, the last, and the lost.
