Sularte, Mapuri Joseph

This person is a candidate for the GMF INT’L Track and is expected to be confirmed by October 31, 2024.

Mapuri Joseph Sularte is an international Global Mission Fellow with the United Methodist General Board of Global Ministries, engaged in a two-year term of service.

The Global Mission Fellows program takes young adults ages 20-30 out of their home environments and places them in new contexts for mission experience and service. The program has a strong emphasis on faith and justice. Global Mission Fellows become active parts of their new local communities. They connect the church in mission across cultural and geographical boundaries. They grow in personal and social holiness and become strong young leaders working to build just communities in a peaceful world.  

She earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Secondary Education with a major in Biology at University of the Philippines Diliman in Quezon City.

Mapuri enjoys learning and sharing her knowledge with others.

“I took my first formal Korean class in college after years of self-study,” she said. “I aced every test and ended up with an A, proving my dedication and skill. I might or might not be assigned to a Korean community, but my love for learning languages is a key part of my commitment. Embracing new languages enhances cultural understanding and fosters connections, which also enriches the volunteer experience.”

A member of Nativity of the Lord Roman Catholic Parish in Quezon City, Philippines, Mapuri attends Holy Mass every Sunday, as well as during liturgical seasons and religious feasts.

“My spiritual journey,” she said, “was shaped by my mother’s strong faith. She started teaching me to pray when I was young, instilling in me the habit of expressing gratitude to God every night and day. Due to my mom’s influence, I learned to be thankful for each day and seek guidance from God in tough situations. In high school, I joined a program with mentors from a Catholic group. I met my mentor, Grace, who invited me to their center for activities during summer breaks.”

At the center, participants engaged in activities like cooking, baking and volunteering, always concluding the day with prayers and Holy Mass. “Sharing these experiences with my mom made her happy,” Mapuri recalled, “and I felt a closer connection to God. Even as a young working adult, I continue to pray and express gratitude to God for blessings. When I was anxious about finding a job after graduating, I went to a chapel alone to talk to God. I shared all my worries about the future and concerns as I entered adult life.

Looking back, I see that God provided for all my needs, and I’m extremely grateful.”

Now Mapuri feels called to share God’s amazing grace with others.

“I want to use my skills to help those facing challenges and offer hope for a better future,” she said. “My goal is to remind people that God is always there to help, and they are not alone. This mission stems from my own experiences of God’s guidance, and I want to pass on this positivity to others.

“I believe that through simple acts of kindness and support, we can make a difference in people’s lives.”

As an education graduate with a corporate background, Mapuri brings a unique blend of skills to the Global Mission Fellows program.

“My educational experiences equipped me with inclusive teaching strategies, effective communication, and presentation skills, while my corporate role fostered the development of strong organizational skills, attention to detail, adaptability, and quick learning,” she said. “I am passionate about using these skills to contribute meaningfully to social justice initiatives and make a positive impact.”