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Sister Yolanda Durian Sister Yolanda is one of 650 Medical Mission Sisters in 19 nations trying to be present to others in the spirit of Jesus the Healer. Born and raised in the Philippines, Sister Yolanda cared for her younger siblings when her mother died during her teenage years. "My father worked very hard to send us to good schools," she recalls lovingly. "I found myself in leadership positions as a student and young worker. I was the national president of the Young Christian Workers Movement for 4 years before I joined Medical Mission Sisters." Sister Yolanda's first overseas mission assignment was in Malawi, Africa. She worked in Phalombe Hospital as a pharmacist, and also became very involved with the youth. "My experience in the Philippines helped me to enter their lives, understand their yearnings, join their actions to better their life and uplift their dignity," she explains. Her activities with young people also prepared her to accompany African women with vocations, and she served 2 terms as our Formation Coordinator for Africa. Sister Yolanda spent almost 30 years in Malawi. During this time, she was District Coordinator for 4 terms. She also worked with women's groups, and for many years was involved in leadership in the Association of Religious in Malawi. Returning to her native Philippines, Sister Yolanda was elected District Coordinator. "I have learned that wisdom is to allow God to be God in my life," she says simply. "I see myself more as 'the wind beneath the wings,' quietly affirming people's gifts, and helping provide the environment where the leadership in each one and in the group can flourish and grow in the fullness of life." In May, she was chosen to serve as Sector Coordinator for all Medical Mission Sisters in East Asia.
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