Learning to Serve Even from Afar: My MFSA Online Internship Experience
By Camille Bianca Manangan, MFSA Organizing Associate
My internship with the Methodist Federation for Social Action (MFSA) was a meaningful experience even though it was done online. At first, I was unsure if I would really learn much since everything was done through Zoom meetings, but I later realized that learning and service can still happen in an online setting.
During my internship, I attended Zoom meetings that focused on what MFSA does with their local chapters or the churches they work with. Through these meetings, I learned how MFSA partners with churches in addressing social issues such as human rights, poverty, and justice. These discussions helped me understand how the church can stand with communities who are facing different struggles.
Being part of MFSA also opened my heart to learning new things. I learned about non-violent direct action and how it can be used to stand up for justice in peaceful ways. I also learned about racial justice through MFSA’s racial audit, which helped me understand the importance of looking honestly at systems, structures, and our own roles in them. These experiences helped me see social action in a deeper and more meaningful way.
One of the most challenging parts of my internship was dealing with personal and technical difficulties. There were times when I had no internet connection, which made it hard to attend meetings or complete tasks on time. I also experienced sickness that affected my focus and strength. The time zone difference added another challenge, and experiencing typhoons and power interruptions made things even harder. Despite these struggles, I did my best to stay committed and continue learning.
I also had a weekly check-in with my internship supervisor, the Executive Director of MFSA- Bridget Cabrera. She was very helpful and encouraging especially during differences and tough times. She guided me through the articles I was working on for MFSA and helped me understand the work of MFSA better. Even though this was a different kind of internship, I learned a lot from her during my first semester. Her guidance and patience helped me push through the difficulties and the unique experience of doing my internship online.
Overall, my online internship with MFSA helped me grow in knowledge, faith, and compassion. It taught me that learning can happen even in hard situations, and that opening your heart to justice and service can change the way you see the world.
Camille Bianca Sumera Manangan (she/her/hers) is a dedicated leader in faith, justice, and advocacy. She served as an intern with the General Board of Church and Society in 2018 and is currently a board member of the General Commission on Archives and History’s Center for LGBTQ+ United Methodist Heritage.
She earned her Bachelor of Arts in Legal Management from the University of the East – Manila. She served as a Global Mission Fellow in the United Kingdom from 2022-2024. Camille is now continuing her theological studies at Drew Theological School in New Jersey.